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The Simple Guide to Travel Vaccines

travel vaccines

Traveling around the world exposes you to many things like exotic foods, different cultures, and beautiful landscapes. And new germs and diseases.

Many of us live in the Western world where polio, measles, and diphtheria are virtually nonexistent because of vaccines.

Unfortunately, that's not the case for most developing countries where people still suffer from vaccine-treatable diseases and proper sanitation and access to clean water.

If you're heading overseas, it's important to determine if you need any travel-related vaccines before you board your plane.

Some vaccines, like Yellow Fever, are required for entrance into certain countries, but the decision to get vaccinated is totally up to you. I'm not a doctor, so it's best to talk with your physician or travel doc to determine your risk.

Table of Contents

  • Common Travel Vaccines
    • MMR
    • Yellow Fever
    • Typhoid
    • Hepatitis A
    • Japanese Encephalitis
    • Rabies
    • Other Vaccines and Travel Meds
    • Where to Get Vaccinated

Common Travel Vaccines

MMR

The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is a routine vaccine that individuals receive as children, but it's especially important for travel.

While measles has been declared eliminated from the U.S. since 2000, over 20 million people are diagnosed with measles every year around the world, including Europe.

In 2014 over 600 cases of measles were reported in the U.S. Most of those cases were traced back to an outbreak in the Philippines and brought back to the US through unvaccinated travelers.

The MMR vaccine is a two-shot series usually given during your childhood. The first shot is received between 12-15 months and the second between four to six years of age.

Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever is a disease found in mostly South America and Africa caused by a virus that is spread through mosquito bites.

Symptoms of the illness develop typically in three to six days and include fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches. About 15% of the cases develop into a serious illness that can lead to shock, bleeding, and organ failure.

The Yellow Fever vaccine is a single live, weakened virus shot given to people between nine months and 59 years of age traveling to or living in areas where yellow fever is known to be a risk. The vaccine lasts for about 10 years.

After receiving your yellow fever vaccine you'll receive a yellow booklet that serves as your proof of vaccination. This is known as your "International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP)."

You should carry this in your passport as you'll need this to enter certain countries or you could be denied entrance or detained for up to six days to make sure you are not infected.

Typhoid

Typhoid fever is a serious disease spread by contaminated food and water commonly found throughout the developing world.

Symptoms include high fevers, stomach pains, loss of appetite, and weakness. There are over 22 million cases of typhoid fever worldwide every year that lead to about 200,000 deaths.

The typhoid vaccine comes in two forms: either a shot or a pill. The shot lasts for about two years while the pill lasts for about five years.

Both forms of vaccines are only about 50-80% effective, so you still need to be careful about what you put into your mouth.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A, or Hep A, is another food- and water-borne disease that leads to liver disease. It can also be spread through the hands of a person with Hep A.

Symptoms of the disease include sudden onset of fever, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, and other similar flu-like symptoms.

It is possible for some people to have no symptoms too. Most people recover from Hep A with no long-term liver damage.

Hep A is commonly found in developing countries, especially rural areas. The Hep A vaccine is given as two doses about six to 12 months apart.

In the U.S., the vaccine has been a routine childhood vaccine since 2005. Those of us born before 2005 should probably consult with our doctors to decide if the Hep A vaccine is needed.

travel vaccines

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne disease commonly found in Southeast Asia.

Symptoms start to show in about five to 15 days and include fever, vomiting, confusion, and headache. If medical attention is not sought immediately, swelling around the brain and coma can occur possibly leading to death.

While your chances of getting JE are rare, your risk increases if you're traveling to rural areas in Asia, you plan to be outside often, and you are traveling during high mosquito season (usually summer and fall, but year-round for tropical and subtropical regions).

The JE vaccine is a two-dose vaccine given within a 30-day window that is effective for 10 years. You should schedule your appointments so the last dose is at least 10 days before your trip.

It's best to talk with your doctor about the JE vaccine as not all travelers will need the vaccine.

It is commonly recommended for travelers who plan to spend a minimum of one month in an endemic area during the JE virus transmission season. For a map of risk zones, see the CDC map.

Rabies

The Rabies vaccine is not just for chance animal encounters. It is sometimes given to travelers who spend a great deal of their time working with wild or domestic animals, like a veterinarian or wildlife professional.

Rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus spread through the saliva of an infected animal. The rabies virus is found throughout the world with the exception of Antarctic.

Rabies is usually transmitted to people from bites or scratches from infected dogs, bats, raccoons, and other animals. Rabies affects the central nervous system leading to brain disease and death. There is no cure.

The chances you need the rabies vaccine are slim, unless you plan to work or volunteer with animals on the road. The rabies vaccine is a three-shot series with a shot given on day 1, day 7 and day 21 or 28.

Prevention is key on the road whether you receive the vaccine or not. It's best to avoid touching all animals including the cute dog at your hostel. Trust me, I struggle with this myself.

If an animal bites you, seek medical attention immediately.

Other Vaccines and Travel Meds

There are other travel and routine vaccinations that you might need before embarking on your trip.

Check with your doctor (many doctors have online patient portals where you should be able to print your previous immunizations) to see what you may need to help keep you healthy on the road.

Common routine vaccines include Hepatitis B, DTap, Meningococcal (especially important if you are spending an extended time in Africa), Hib, MMR, and Polio among others.

If you are unsure if you should vaccinate or not, I urge you to consult with a medical professional. Just like any medication, vaccines do have side effects, most of which are very rare.

Malaria is another common mosquito-borne disease is found in primarily tropical regions of the world.

For more information on Malaria, head over to my recent article on the topic. And, as you might have guessed by not, there are many other mosquito-borne diseases so make sure DEET is on your packing list!

Where to Get Vaccinated

You should be able to get most of these vaccines at your regular doctor's office.

However, some travel vaccines, like Yellow Fever and Japanese Encephalitis, might only be available through specific travel clinics.

Many universities and public health clinics offer travel vaccines and consultations at discounted prices compared to private travel clinics or your doctor's office.

When I first received most of my travel vaccines in 2010 for travel, I had to pay over $500 out-of-pocket because my health insurance did not cover them.

Thankfully, with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), many vaccines are covered under preventive care and thus are free or a minimal fee (Yellow Fever and JE will most likely not).

Travelers from countries other than the United States should check with their medical professionals about the availability of vaccines and related costs.

As a public health professional and frequent traveler and soon-to-be expat, prevention goes a long way in keeping you healthy on the road. This includes vaccines.

While the chances of you getting any of these diseases are relatively rare, they do happen. No one wants to spend their vacation hooked up to IVs in the hospital.

________

Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. Please consult with a medical professional about your travels and health risks abroad.

The Top 5 Mini-Breaks from London

Cotswolds
Strolling past a small church in the Cotswolds.

London is a fabulous city. There's no doubt about it. You can, however, do yourself a real disservice if you travel to England and don't venture anywhere outside the UK's capital.

Personally - my feet start itching if I don't get out of London every few weeks.

So, if you're looking for an alternative destination in the UK, these are what I believe are the cities and areas that deserve the title of top five mini-breaks from London... and why.

Brighton
A gloomy day in Brighton, as seen from the pier.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Brighton
  • 2. The Cotswolds
  • 3. Margate
  • 4. Bristol
  • 5. York

1. Brighton

Brighton is one of the easiest places to visit from London, as it takes just over an hour to travel there by train from London Bridge Station.

Sadly, it's one of the few English beachside towns that is still thriving.

Although the pier remains in use and is enjoyed by tourists, there is much more to do in Brighton, which has been its saving grace.

There are events all year round, such as the electronic music festival Shakedown, the biggest Pride festival in the UK, and Brighton Festival itself, which celebrates and commemorates all things arty.

Besides the festivals, Brighton is known for its nightlife and is an excellent destination for shopping, particularly of a secondhand nature.

I've managed to spend endless hours pottering around the various flea markets and am not willing to admit to how much money I've spent in these places.

2. The Cotswolds

England has so many national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty. It can be a mission to pick and choose between them.

Popular destinations include the Peak and Lake District, the Yorkshire Moors, and Dartmoor National Park - leaving the Cotswolds to often get pushed aside and unjustly so.

The Cotswolds are England as I had always imagined it - rolling greens and picture-perfect villages, with names such as "Upper Slaughter," "Wotton-under-Edge," and "Cockleford."

Perfect for long walks, picnics in the summertime, or lunch in a traditional English pub.

Margate
Margate, from the beach

3. Margate

Margate is touted as one of England's new hipster areas and is worth visiting for Dreamland alone.

The theme park was reopened in 2015 and features rides from across multiple decades.

There are dodgems from the 1970s, the "Kiss Me Quick" Caterpillar from the 30s, and the jewel of the grounds - the rebuilt Scenic Railway, the oldest rollercoaster in the UK, having been around for almost a century.

The park boasts a range of activities throughout the year, becoming a "Frosted Fairground" over Christmas and opening as "Screamland" just in time for Halloween.

4. Bristol

Like Margate, Bristol is increasingly becoming a popular destination for young professionals, who find themselves either getting priced out of or simply tiring of London life.

It's becoming a hot spot for trendy cafés and shops and is slowly benefitting from an ongoing campaign to make the city bicycle-friendly.

The city has always been known for its arts scene. Creative media companies have set up shop across the town, and it's a theatre lover's dream, boasting venues such as the Bristol Old Vic and the Theatre Royal, the oldest continuously operating theatre in England.

Bristol also features a heap of venues for live music, with many famous bands hailing from the city - an alumnus that includes Portishead and Massive Attack.

The graffiti artist Banksy originates from Bristol, and his work can still be viewed across the city, along with many other reputable street artists.

Geographically, Bristol has pretty much everything you could ask for - an extensive urban center intersected by the River Avon, all within a short distance of the surrounding countryside.

York
The sun shining over York

5. York

York looks a lot further away than it is - an inexpensive (by English standards) two-hour train trip from London's King Cross station.

When I visited, I was pleasantly surprised by the vast amount of activities there were on offer.

Any visitor to York needs to stroll along the city walls and make a trip to the Minster, the cathedral in the city. The structure is well-known for its various gargoyles.

Some are creepy or grotesque. Others are out of the ordinary, such as one famous fellow who can be seen mooning those on the ground below.

It's worth timing your visit to catch the Minster choir in action. They sing at a service called Evensong every day of the week bar Monday, at 5:15 pm.

From there, you could take in a meal at an 800-year-old building, a pub fantastically known as the House of Trembling Madness. Get there early - Britons tend to pack out pubs as soon as they finish work.

After you've eaten until your heart's content, you may want to score a spot on York's famous Ghost Walk - believed to be the first of its kind in the world.

I was surprised that York was once known for chocolate, with Rowntree's and Terry's originating in the city. Tours of York's chocolate history are available for visitors.

For fans of trains or just museums in general, the National Rail Museum is also a highlight.

That's the beauty of England.

For a country that seems so small, with so many people knocking about, there are still endless parks, forests, beaches, cities, and centuries of history waiting to be explored - so don't be afraid to step out of London and immerse yourself in the best of Britain.

Exploring Nature and History around Galway Bay

Galway
Galway (photo: Phalinn Ooi)

The Irish city of Galway has long been used to invoke a longing for home in Irish people around the world, with songs like "Galway Girl" representing the best of Ireland.

Probably the best known Irish song of all time is the classic "Galway Bay," written all the way back in 1947 and made famous by Bing Crosby.

Describing the beautiful natural scenery that Ireland is known for around the world, "Galway Bay" was an instant classic, showing an international audience the iconic beauty of Ireland.

Over the years, the song’s been covered by a host of artists, from traditional groups like Celtic Woman to iconic performers like Sam Cooke and Johnny Cash (it’s also used to give a sense of homesickness in the Christmas classic "Fairytale of New York").

I decided to head on down to Galway to have a look at the Bay for myself, and find out just why the city’s so popular for songwriters.

As soon as I arrived, I was pretty surprised to see Irish writing everywhere – it turns out that Galway has more speakers of the Irish language than any other city in the country, with a strong connection to the traditional culture and history of Ireland.

If you’re interested in finding out about Galway’s music and culture, for my money there’s no better place to go than the Quay Street.

With some of the city’s best traditional pubs placed along the street, there are a lot of places to get a drink and some delicious food.

Pretty much every pub on the street regularly hosts live traditional music, with bands playing throughout the night.

Incredible to watch and hear, but with the street getting pretty loud at times, I was glad that I’d booked a cheap room in the Travelodge Galway hotel, a bit of a distance from the street.

Galway Bay
Galway Bay side of the Cliffs of Moher (photo: Jennifer Boyer)

In the morning, I took off to explore the Bay, a huge expanse of water and natural environments.

Ranging from the city of Galway itself all the way out to Kinvara and the northernmost part of the Burren (a huge natural area that apparently shows off pretty much every type of natural environment in Ireland).

There’s really no better way to explore Galway Bay than from the sea, so I took a trip out with Sail Galway Bay, setting off from the Galway docks just to the south of the city.

Heading out along the Claddagh, the crew told us interesting stories about the places we sailed past, from the historic Spanish Arch (originally made to protect the city’s docks) to the Salthill beach (a gorgeous little area I visited later in the day).

All in all, the Galway Bay’s a great sight for anyone interested in nature, and I imagine that Irish people visiting the city might get a bit more of a homely feeling – Galway is a very Irish area, with a lot to explore.

__________

This story was written in partnership with Travelodge and Sail Galway Bay.

Europe's Best Gay Beaches

Sun, sea, and sand are the cornerstones of travel for many people, and the gay community is no different. While gay culture has always thrived in cosmopolitan cities like London and Berlin, sometimes a gay-boy needs to get away from it all and enjoy a little beach time as well.

It might be chilly now, but summertime will be here before you know it, so it's time to get planning your European summer beach break. Here are my favorite gay beaches you shouldn't miss in Europe.

Es Cavallet, Ibiza

Es Cavallet, Ibiza
Es Cavallet, Ibiza (photo: Kevin Coles)

For the perfect blend of parties and sunshine, Ibiza is always the place to be, and this island attracts thousands of gay revelers looking for a good time each year in its summer season.

In the evening, there is no shortage of gay bars to entertain you, and in the daytime, you can sleep off your hangover on the rays of Es Cavallet beach.

This is officially a nudist beach, and the end section is gay. You won't miss it thanks to the abundance of guys wearing, well, nothing at all.

Things are pretty chilled out from mid-morning to around 4 p.m., but then the party starts once again.

All the main activity is based around the Chiringay gay beach restaurant, and if you're a beach lover, you'll no doubt end up eating many meals and drinking many cocktails at Chiringay.

Related: Why Every Traveler Should Attend a Gay Pride Festival

Mako, Gallipoli

When you think of gay beaches, you probably imagine all-night parties and music blaring out over the seafront, but this isn't the case for all gay-friendly coastal hotspots. The small town of Gallipoli in Puglia, Italy, is a prime example of this.

In fact, in this town of around 20,000 people, you won't find a gay watering hole at all. But keep your eyes peeled, and you'll notice that local gay Italians flock to Gallipoli in the summer months for its rugged beauty.

And the beach where the gay community congregates is called Mako. The beach itself is a little rocky so that you won't be playing any volleyball. But head straight to the wooden deck where a bar is split across two levels and mingle with the mixed LGBT crowd.

This is a very "anything goes" kinda place where you don't have to worry about having an Adonis body. Just relax and enjoy it.

Bellevue Beach, Copenhagen

Bellevue Beach, Copenhagen
Bellevue Beach, Copenhagen (photo: lukestehr)

When you think of beach destinations in Europe, you almost certainly don't think of Scandinavia. But, of course, this is a part of the continent surrounded by water, and the LGBT culture in this part of Europe is incredibly vibrant.

For an alternative gay break that can include city club-hopping, strolls on the boardwalk, and gay beach time, Copenhagen is a great choice. And the place where all the magic happens is Bellevue Beach, located ten kilometers outside of downtown Copenhagen, and sits next to a fishing village.

Don't let the quaint small-town feel put you off - head to the very north of the beach, and you'll find the gay, nude section.

The Scandi attitude is very relaxed and accepting of all body types, but it is the case that the local guys here are just pretty buff and naturally beautiful. It's trendy in the summer, so arrive in July or August to experience the beach at its best.

See also: World's Best Cities for Gay Clubbing

Elia Beach, Mykonos

Elia Beach, Mykonos
Elia Beach, Mykonos (photo: Mike)

It seemed to me like every gay man I know was holidaying in Mykonos last year, and who can blame them?

2016 is set to be an even hotter year for the gay-friendly island, and the main beach where all the gay men head to is Elias Beach on the island's south coast.

With many gay beaches, the gay area is confined to a rocky outcrop at the far end of a straight nudist beach, but not so with Elia Beach.

A rainbow flag flies proudly right in the center of the beach, and there is nothing but golden sand right along this stretch of coastline. And there is nothing hidden away about your sunbathing experience here.

You can rent a sun lounge and have drinks and food brought over to you while you eye up the guys around you.

Beyond this main beach, you will find a second beach, which is a little more isolated, and so you'll find some nudism towards the far end. Things can get cruisy there in the late afternoon if that's what you're into.

Which is your favorite gay beach in Europe?

Why Tasmania is Australia's Most Weirdly Wonderful State

Australia. It's a big country. There's so much to see and do; it's hard to narrow down what does and doesn't deserve your attention. When people ask me for advice, I usually rattle off a long list of places to eat and drink in Sydney, tell them they have to go to Melbourne, and insist that they make time for Tasmania.

Australia's most southern state is often neglected, and I don't understand why.

Table of Contents

  • About Tasmania
    • It's not as stinking hot as the rest of Australia.
    • Tasmania is a separate entity from the rest of Australia.
    • It is home to what is quite possibly Australia's standout art museum.
    • It's perhaps the only Australian state with a castle.
    • It boasts the biggest maze in the Southern Hemisphere.
    • It was the setting for the last big massacre in Australia's history.
    • A large amount of the state is a World Heritage Site.
    • There is a place called "Eggs and Bacon Bay" in Tasmania.

About Tasmania

Tasmazia in Tasmania
The town of Lower Crackpot

It's not as stinking hot as the rest of Australia.

What images are synonymous with Australia? Sizzling hot sun and lithe bronzed bodies, jumping from sand to surf? You're not going to get much of that here.

Tasmania is notoriously chilly. While the rest of the country spends summer baking in 90+ degree heat, T-mania tends to sit comfortably around the 70s.

Winter can be icy cold and often brings snow - which can last well into what is considered "beach weather" in other parts of the country.

I discovered this when I visited in the middle of spring back in 2011. A snow-capped Mt. Wellington towered over the state's capital of Hobart. I'd been sunbaking in my hometown of Sydney only days earlier.

Snowman
Wind in my face and snow! In October!

Tasmania is a separate entity from the rest of Australia.

There have been a lot of moments throughout history where the rest of the country has neglected T-mania.

Take the 1982 Commonwealth Games, where performers used colored cards to put together a map of Australia - which was missing our island state.

Thirty-two years later, they were further offended when they were left off the uniforms for the 2014 games.

There have been multiple slip-ups throughout history, which has bred much discontent throughout the state.

Residents of other parts of Australia are referred to as "mainlanders" - sometimes in jest, other times with darker undercurrents to their tones.

Either way, mainland Australia hasn't done its bit to help Tasmania feel included, and traveling there can often feel like journeying to an entirely different country.

MONA, a museum in Tasmania
An exhibit inside MONA

It is home to what is quite possibly Australia's standout art museum.

The Museum of Old and New Art was opened in 2011 by David Walsh - a Tasmanian who made a fortune from professional gambling. He used his wealth to invest in a substantial collection of art, opening it to the public in the form of this museum.

MONA provided a chance for residents and tourists to take in Walsh's eclectic collection. The venue also hosts the annual MOFO and Dark Mofo festivals, which feature live performances and public art.

The museum has fast become one of Hobart's most popular attractions. In a nod to Walsh's origins, residents of Tasmania receive free entry into the gallery.

It's perhaps the only Australian state with a castle.

I had to do a double-take when driving through Perth (not to be confused with Western Australia's capital) on my way from Hobart to Launceston.

"Did we just pass a castle?" I asked my then-boyfriend. He nodded in confirmation.

It turns out someone wanted to build a castle - so they did. Complete with a guardian knight and windmill. Everyone knows where the castle in Perth is and seems continuously amused by it.

Pancakes
These are probably the best pancakes I've ever had in my life.

It boasts the biggest maze in the Southern Hemisphere.

Tasmania is home to Tasmazia - the largest hedge maze in not only the country but the southern hemisphere.

The maze is so big that it has its postcode. Any mail sent from there will be delivered under the name of "Lower Crackpot," after a model village that lies within the center.

Even better - smack bang next to the maze is a pancake shop, which has what will probably be the best pancakes you'll ever eat in your life.

Tasmazia is over an hour's drive from the town of Launceston, but it's well worth the trip.

It was the setting for the last big massacre in Australia's history.

On a more somber note, Tasmania is home to Port Arthur. The area was once a former prison and convict settlement but is now regarded as Tasmania's most significant historical site for much darker reasons.

On the 28th of April in 1996, a young man from Hobart drove to Port Arthur armed with three high-powered firearms.

He proceeded to tour around the area on a killing spree, which killed 35 people and wounded 23 others. He was eventually apprehended and is currently serving 35 life sentences in jail.

The massacre shocked the nation and led to a federal restriction on high-capacity semi-automatic shotguns and rifles.

Port Arthur remains an integral part of Australia's modern history. As one of the country's best-known historical sites, it receives over 250,000 visitors each year.

Waterfall
Drinking water straight from Mt. Wellington

A large amount of the state is a World Heritage Site.

Australia is a beautiful country, but Tasmania perhaps takes the cake. The Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area covers 15,800 km² (20% of the state), making it one of the largest conservation areas in the country. It remains a popular area for bushwalking and quiet contemplation.

The area has been threatened repeatedly over time. In 2014, the Australian government proposed de-listing the Tasmanian Wilderness as a World Heritage Site to allow the logging of trees in the protected area.

The proposal was rejected by the 38th Session of the World Heritage Committee in June 2014. For now, the area is safe and open to enjoyment from residents and visitors alike.

There is a place called "Eggs and Bacon Bay" in Tasmania.

This is self-evident. It must be visited. So, if you like art, culture, history, fresh air, and breathtakingly beautiful countryside, you should probably take a trip to Tasmania. You won't regret it.

2015: A Wild Ride Through 16 Countries and One Life Reset

Taking stock of the new places I visit yearly has become an annual tradition, even though I continue to wait until the very last minute to share!

Before we begin, I would like to thank everyone reading for their support. In 2015, Go Backpacking again surpassed 1 million visitors and 2.5 million page views!

As much as I enjoy traveling, I appreciate that the stories and images published here inspire and inform others to save up and go abroad.

Table of Contents

  • Destinations
    • Colombia
    • Turkey (Istanbul to Izmir)
    • Georgia
    • Armenia
    • Turkey (Mt. Nemrut to Bodrum)
    • Greece
    • Berlin, Germany
    • Romania
    • London, England
    • Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Destinations

Colombia

Johnny Cay, San Andres
Johnny Cay, Colombia

I began 2015 in the familiar city of Medellín. In February, I took a 90-minute VivaColombia flight to the Colombian island of San Andres. Geographically, it's closer to the coast of Nicaragua, but you can't fly between the two.

I rented a golf cart and spent a day cruising clockwise past white-sand beaches. The next day, I visited a little island 15 minutes away by boat, and by the third day, I was ready to move on.

Providencia is a smaller, quieter, less developed island, located 20 minutes north of San Andres by air. The airport is a short spit of asphalt surrounded by lush plants and palm trees.

Accommodation is basic, but I was due for a splurge, so I booked two nights at Deep Blue, the island's only boutique luxury hotel.

On San Andres, I rented a golf cart and spent over half a day cruising around the island, stopping to snorkel, eating fresh fish on a beach for lunch, and checking out the island's only (reggae) bar.

San Andres is to Cancun as Providencia is to Tulum. I still daydream about my stay in Providencia and would return in a heartbeat.

Turkey (Istanbul to Izmir)

Hagia Sophia - Istanbul (photo: Dave Lee)
Hagia Sophia - Istanbul (photo: Dave Lee)

I flew from New York City to Istanbul in early May with Turkish Airlines.

I felt lucky to participate in the first blog trip organized by the airline, which allowed me to see the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and the natural pools of Pamukkale.

After waving goodbye to my fellow bloggers, I stayed in the capital to continue sightseeing, visit a traditional bath, and taste the world's best baklava.

From Istanbul, I traveled south overland to Bursa, then west to Çanakkale to see the ruins of Troy and learn about the Battle of Gallipoli. I wrapped up the first leg of my trip to Turkey with a visit to Pergamon's ruins and a few nights in the coastal city of Izmir.

Georgia

My curiosity led me to take a brief break from Turkey and visit the neighboring country of Georgia, a former Soviet republic. I flew into the capital of Tbilisi just in time to see the residents celebrate their Independence Day in Freedom Square, complete with tanks and fighter plane flyovers.

I took a day trip north to see a few churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, traveling as far along the Georgian Military Road as possible to reach the Russian border.

I also made a two-night side trip to eastern Georgia. It began with a drive to the David Gareja Monastery, located on the border with Azerbaijan.

It was followed by a day of wine tasting near Signagi, a 2,000-person town offering scenic views of the Caucasus Mountains.

Armenia

It was a five-hour van ride from Tbilisi to the Armenian capital of Yerevan. I only spent four nights there, but it was enough to get a taste of the city, check out the super cool outdoor sculpture garden called The Cascade, and learn about the 1915 Armenian Genocide.

I booked my return ride to Tbilisi through my hostel, which included a friendly guide and driver. I stopped at the UNESCO-listed 10th-century Monasteries of Haghpat and Sanahin near the Georgian border.

Turkey (Mt. Nemrut to Bodrum)

Dave atop Mount Nemrut
Dave atop Mount Nemrut

I flew back to Istanbul and then to Adiyaman, from which I took a bus and a taxi to Kahta. This small town serves as a base for visits to Nemrut Dagi, the mountain upon which an egomaniacal king had larger-than-life sculptures carved from stone.

I left Kahta by bus for Cappadocia, where I shacked up in a cave hotel, overcame my fear of hot air balloon rides with a 75-minute sunrise flight, and spent several days sightseeing above and below ground.

Continuing westward, I spent a few nights in Konya, where I visited the grave of Rumi, the famous Sufi poet. I also squeezed in a half-day trip to Catalhoyuk, a 9,000-year-old Neolithic site designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

My first stop along the southwestern Mediterranean coast, known as the Turkish Riviera, was the city of Antalya. However, the smaller resort town of Kas dazzled me with its relaxed vibe and turquoise waters.

Oludeniz was another beach resort town I'd never heard of before arriving in Turkey, but its beauty in person blew me away. It's also a world-renowned paragliding destination.

Finally, I reached Bodrum after six weeks in Turkey and eight weeks in the region. If I hadn't had so much work necessitating an internet connection at the time, I would have booked a sailing trip to the Greek islands.

Related: 13 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Greece

Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos, Greece (photo: Dave Lee)

Since my first backpacking trip in '98, I've wanted to visit Greece, so it didn't matter how I got there.

Rhodes

I took a short ferry from Bodrum to Rhodes. The highlight of a one-day self-drive tour of the island with a few women from the hostel was a beer and swim on Tsampika Beach.

Santorini

To speed things up, I flew from Rhodes to Santorini (via Athens), taking hundreds of photos of the gorgeous views, whitewashed cliff-side churches, and windmills.

Ios

Next, it was on to Ios by ferry. I didn't know it was one of the Mediterranean's party capitals. Still, I managed to secure an excellent budget hotel room with a balcony overlooking the pool and town in Ios for the summer. I rented a car and spent an entire day driving around this little island, stopping at four beaches.

Paros

I stopped over on the island of Paros for a few nights, but it didn't do much for me, and I was starting to feel burnt out from all the travel.

Mykonos

I knew Santorini would be expensive, but it wasn't until I started looking at hotel prices the night before I arrived in Mykonos that it was just as bad (all the hostels were fully booked).

The cheapest accommodation I could find was $110 per night. Granted, it was the middle of July, but dang, that hurt. Thankfully, like Santorini, Mykonos lived up to the hype.

I didn't go out partying; I was content to wander the back streets, dine on delicious Greek cuisine, and photograph the windmills.

Athens

My last stop in Greece was Athens, where I made the requisite morning trek up the Acropolis in the blazing heat.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin Cathedral - Berliner Dom, with the Berlin TV tower in the background
Berlin Cathedral with the Berlin TV tower in the background (Credit: Wiki)

On a whim, I flew to Berlin to attend the Digital Nomad Conference, where I saw several friends, including Mark Manson, speak. It was a fun conference, and I'd certainly go back.

For me, conferences like these continue to be more about socializing than learning anything new. I have all year to learn from what's on the web, but my chance to hang out with friends and peers in person is rarer than I'd like to admit.

It also allowed me to hang out with friends based in Berlin at the time, including Audrey and Dan from Uncornered Market, Linda and Craig Martin of Indie Travel Podcast, Jeremy of travelFREAK, and Freddy Lansky.

Romania

Feeling burnt out from the fast-paced travel, I spent August in Romania, mainly in Bucharest. I booked a spot in a co-working space for the first time and focused on growing Travel Blog Success.

I also squeezed in a week of sightseeing in Transylvania, with stops in Brasov, Sighisoara (where Dracula was born), and Sibiu.

London, England

Wearing Pick Pocket Proof Pants and a shirt by Clothing Arts at Dismaland
Wearing Pick Pocket Proof Pants and a shirt by Clothing Arts @ Dismaland

As fall arrived in Eastern Europe, I began to go back to the United States, but not before visiting a friend in London. Together, we took a day trip to visit Dismaland, the six-week art installation by Banksy.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

My last trip of the year was to attend the 2015 TBEX conference in Fort Lauderdale, where I represented Travel Blog Success and met dozens of our members!

Annual Reviews from Prior Years

  • 2014
  • 2013
  • 2012 South America
  • 2012 Europe and Asia
  • 2011
  • 2010

The World's Best Places to Celebrate the New Year

Celebrating New Years
The New Year in Sydney is welcomed with a subtle fireworks display (Credit: Victor Zubakin)

At some point, while traveling, you'll probably find yourself in a completely different city, if not country, for New Year's Eve.

Although the advent of the New Year is commemorated across the globe, the festivities differ from place to place, in accordance with anything from cultural beliefs, to a country's climate.

Here's the lowdown on the best places to celebrate New Years, around the world.

NYE Auckland
Fireworks erupt from Auckland's Sky Tower (credit: Louis Tan)

Table of Contents

  • Auckland, New Zealand
  • Las Vegas, USA
  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Dubai, U.A.E.
  • Berlin, Germany
  • Sydney, Australia

Auckland, New Zealand

For the last few years on social media, for reasons I don't understand, I've seen posts touting Sydney, Australia as the place to be for NYE - the "first city to ring in the New Year."

This is incorrect. It's time to set the record straight.

New Zealand is one of the first countries in the world to welcome the New Year (two hours before the east coast of Australia), making it an ideal destination for party revelers.

The country's most populous city Auckland boasts a spectacular fireworks display, with the city's Sky Tower acting as the focal point for the show.

Auckland's Waiheke Island is also a popular destination for NYE festivities, with festivals scheduled every year.

NYE Las Vegas
Celebrations in Las Vegas (Credit: Matt Mechtley)

Las Vegas, USA

On the other end of the spectrum is Las Vegas, one of the last cities on the planet to see in the New Year.

Las Vegas is a party town 365 days a year, but the city ups the ante for this worldwide event.

The entire Strip is closed from traffic, allowing revelers to take to the streets.

There are stacks of events to choose from - parties in hotels and nightclubs and live performances across the city.

At midnight, the casinos launch a choreographed fireworks display, further illuminating the City of Lights.

NYE Tokyo
Hatsumode in Tokyo (Credit: Yoshikazu Takada)

Tokyo, Japan

The New Year in Japan takes on a far more spiritual element than in other places across the globe.

Japanese residents of Tokyo tend to leave the capital in the lead-up to the day to return to their families.

A popular tradition is to tune in to watch NHK Kohaku Utagassen - an end-of-year singing competition, which has been broadcast to the public (via radio and then TV) since 1951!

There is still plenty to do in the city itself, with public transport running all night long.

Shibuya crossing is one of the best places to see in the new year, boasting easy access to plenty of nightclubs nearby if you're in the mood for a dance or song after the countdown completes.

Alternatively, you can welcome in the new year with Hatsumode, which refers to the first visit of the year to a shrine.

After the clock ticks over, people flock to the nearest shrine to make a wish and say a prayer, often leaving a donation in their wake.

The wait to get into the shrines can be long - make sure you bundle up in your warmest clothes to fend off the cold.

NYE Dubai
The Burj Khalifa on New Year's Eve (Credit: Royalty-Free Photos)

Dubai, U.A.E.

Recently Dubai has been determined to prove itself as a top destination for New Year's Eve celebrations.

It seems the city is exceeding its goal, with a fireworks display that becomes more impressive with every passing year.

There are shows across the city kicking off with an eruption of light and color at the Burj Khalifa.

To learn more about visiting the world's tallest building, confirm the latest Burj Khalifa ticket price while planning your trip to the United Arab Emirates.

Displays follow this at Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Residence's The Beach, which lasts for a staggering twenty minutes.

Other options for the night include watching the fireworks from public beaches, taking a safari out into the desert, or indulging in a cruise with dinner and a show.

As Dubai is a Muslim city, it is illegal to drink alcohol on the streets.

There are many hotels and clubs around which are licensed to sell drinks to Westerners over 21.

NYE Berlin
The aftermath in Berlin (Credit: Onnola)

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is famous for its nightlife, and New Year's Eve is no exception.

One of the most popular places to see in the new year is at Brandenburg Gate, with a free party in the nearby Tiergarten.

On the topic of fireworks, citizens tend to take matters into their own hands. It's legal to buy and ignite German-made fireworks within the city, something residents are keen to take advantage of.

Imagine a giant party with dancing in the street, food stalls from all over the world, and an incredible light and laser show.

Don't expect to get home before dawn.

NYE Sydney
Sydney Harbor, illuminated (Credit: Norbert Trewin)

Sydney, Australia

I'll be the first to admit bias, but you can't have a list of top destinations for New Year's Eve and not include Sydney on it.

Sydney's famous harbor lends itself to a show that is regularly billed as being one of, if not the best, fireworks display in the world.

Be ready to queue up for hours to get a good vantage point on the harbor itself. I would recommend forgoing it entirely, traveling instead to neighboring Watson's Bay or Vaucluse.

There are plenty of hills on which you can gather a group of friends, bring along a champagne picnic and enjoy uninterrupted views of the harbor, all while retaining your personal space.

There are plenty of other events across the city, such as the Harbour Party at Sydney's Luna Park or camping on nearby Cockatoo Island.

The weather is beautiful - the people are happy. There's nowhere like Sydney for New Year's Eve.

Wherever you plan to ring in the new year, I hope it's a celebration to remember.

Could Mexico City be the Coolest City in the World?

A couple of years back, after a long backpacking trip, I decided that it was time to lay down some roots for a little while. And I knew exactly where I wanted to base myself - the city I felt most connected to in ten months of traveling, Mexico City.

Museo Soumaya
Museo Soumaya (photo: Russ Bowling)

So often, people tell me they are scared of visiting DF (short for Distrito Federal, what everybody in Mexico calls Mexico City)-worried about crime levels and finding a place to live in such a vast city.

Looking into the best neighborhoods and places to stay in Mexico City in advance can make the city feel far less overwhelming and help you choose an area that fits your travel style.

But so much of what people know about Mexico City (and Mexico in general) is a highly one-sided report from news stories that don't consider how cool Mexico City is. Here are five reasons why I think Mexico City might be the coolest city in the world.

Table of Contents

  • Why Mexico City is Cool
    • 1. It has an incredible arts culture
    • 2. The street food
    • 3. Chapultepec Park - the park that has it all
    • 4. Amazing nightlife
    • 5. Volcanoes surround it

Why Mexico City is Cool

1. It has an incredible arts culture

But, in my opinion, it is one of the best art scenes in the world. Of course, many well-known Mexican artists from the past are still alive, and you can see their artworks up close on a trip to Mexico.

A visit to Frida Kahlo's house should be a priority for any art lover in the city. The incredible frescos by her husband, Diego Rivera, on the walls of Bellas Artes will make your jaw drop.

However, DF also has an impressive contemporary arts culture. The Soumaya Museum was constructed by one of the world's wealthiest men, Carlos Slim Helu, to house his impressive private art collection.

2. The street food

Few people visit Mexico City and aren't blown away by the street food culture. It is impressive, with more variety than you'd expect. DF serves way more than tacos (although those are delicious, too).

Pozole is a bowl of pork and hominy stew found on many of DF's streets and shouldn't be missed. You might also be able to find chicken or mushroom versions, but pork is the standard. Depending on your taste, you can eat it with red, green, or white sauce.

Although DF comes to life at night, be sure to walk the streets in the morning for tamales served in a crunchy bread roll-a filling and delicious way to begin the day.

3. Chapultepec Park - the park that has it all

While living in Mexico City, I was fortunate to be on the edge of the incredible Chapultepec Park, one of the largest parks in the Western Hemisphere, at 1,695 acres. It's possible to walk around the park for days and never get bored.

Chapultepec Park (photo: Ralf Peter Reimann).
Chapultepec Park (photo: Ralf Peter Reimann)

It features a beautiful lake with boats that you can rent, the Museum of Anthropology (which, in my opinion, is one of the most impressive museums in the world), a theme park, a castle, and, of course, ample green space for walking, jogging, picnicking, and relaxing.

4. Amazing nightlife

Mexico City is the place to be if you are a night owl and love to party. One cool thing about the city is that it feels like a series of villages situated next to each other, each with its own culture.

If you want to party with an LGBT crowd and shimmy to some Mexican pop music, you'll have an incredible time in La Zona Rosa. If you want to find a trendy party populated by art students and media professionals, head to La Condesa.

The adjacent Roma Norte neighborhood is also a hot spot with many buzzing bars and restaurants. Or, if swanky drinks at a cocktail bar are more your style, you'll feel totally at home in Polanco.

You had better develop a taste for tequila, mezcal, and pulque, because those are the local drinks to try on a night out in DF!

5. Volcanoes surround it

Mexico City is in a very precarious place for one of the world's largest cities. Earthquakes regularly hit it, it's built on water, and active volcanoes surround it!

Volcano Popocatepetl (photo: Russ Bowling).
Volcano Popocatepetl (photo: Russ Bowling)

But when you need a bit of a breather and an escape from city life, being surrounded by such incredible nature becomes a beautiful thing.

On weekends in DF, I would head just outside the city, climb a massive volcano, and reach snow. This was a fantastic way to do something atypical in a capital city, breathe fresh air, and feel adventurous.

How To Beat Jet Lag in Six Steps

Jet lag, we've all been there. You return from a fantastic trip, ready to dive back into your routine, only to find yourself battling the disorienting effects of jet lag. It's like a cruel reminder that you're back to reality. We all have ways of dealing with and attempting to beat jet lag. Some of us handle it better than others. I, for one, am not in the "handle it well" camp. 

After a three-week adventure in Eastern Europe last spring, I returned home with the worst jet lag I've experienced in years. For a whole week, I woke up in the dead of night, disoriented and unsure of my surroundings despite being in the comfort of my bed.

Flight times.

While roaming the globe searching for new adventures is a fantastic experience, jet lag is inevitable no matter what time zone you visit. Thankfully, there are many ways to help negate the symptoms of jet lag, and be ready to explore as soon as you hit the tarmac. It's time to beat jet lag!

Table of Contents

  • Jet Lag Tips
    • 1. Leave Home Rested
    • 2. Sleep On the Airplane
    • 3. Exercise
    • 4. Go To Bed at the Local Bedtime
    • 5. Use a Natural Supplement to Help You Sleep Better
    • 6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily

Jet Lag Tips

1. Leave Home Rested

Flying is a stressful part of travel. Suppose you leave packing to the last minute and stay out late the night before an early flight. In that case, you'll likely not be as healthy for the first few days of your trip, leaving you more susceptible to illness on the road. Pack early and focus on getting enough sleep before arriving at the airport.

2. Sleep On the Airplane

Let's face it: sleeping on a plane is no easy feat. The cramped seating in economy, the chorus of crying babies, and the occasional turbulence can make it seem like a distant dream. But fear not; with a few small items in your carry-on, your chances of getting a few hours of shuteye are not just possible but highly likely.

Earplugs and an eye mask can help you sleep on a noisy and bright plane. Many airlines offer small blankets and pillows on transatlantic flights. However, if they don't, consider bringing a neck pillow and using a sarong or towel as a blanket.

3. Exercise

Several research studies have suggested that exercise can help with time-change adjustments and speed up your body's return to its regular internal body clock. One study suggests that you should exercise around the same time you usually would at home.

For instance, if you're used to running five miles in New York City at 8 a.m. every morning, you can adjust your routine in London. Try to run at 8 a.m. local time. This advice applies to any exercise you prefer. The important thing is to get outside and move.

4. Go To Bed at the Local Bedtime

how to beat jet lag

Once on the ground, you might be tempted to go to bed, but you should jump right into exploring your new city. Going to bed early means you'll be wide awake in the middle of the night with nothing to do.

If you must, take a short nap and then head out to explore the remaining part of the day. After dinner, walk around the neighborhood to help keep you awake longer. Jet lag hates fresh air and walking.

A pro tip is to call the hotel before you get there to ensure they have the right mattress firmness you're used to at home. This is crucial to get a good night's sleep.

5. Use a Natural Supplement to Help You Sleep Better

Melatonin is a natural hormone your body produces to help regulate your natural sleep-wake cycle. During the night, your melatonin rises to a peak overnight and then falls in the morning.

Melatonin supplement pills can be purchased at any health food store. Some frequent flyers suggest taking melatonin after dark on the day you fly and for several days afterward.

Valerian root, another widely used supplement, functions similarly to melatonin to regulate sleep.

6. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily

drink water
Try to drink half your body weight in ounces every day.

Drink lots of water before, during, and after your flight to stay hydrated. You might want to indulge in a glass of wine or beer on your flight, but alcohol and caffeine can disrupt your sleep and lead to dehydration. On the day of your flight, eat light and healthy meals. Avoid anything super dense and full of carbs and fat.

While you can't entirely avoid jet lag while traveling through multiple time zones, you can reduce its symptoms with these tips, including exploring the potential benefits of red light therapy for sleep and circadian rhythm regulation. Everyone's body is unique, so what helps your friend might not be the best solution for you. However, getting enough rest is a reliable and proven strategy to beat jet lag.

5 Breathtaking, Natural Los Angeles Hikes

Los Angeles is a big city. Covering roughly 469 square miles, the city proper is about 5.5 times larger than Seattle and 11 times larger than Paris. However, the L.A. metropolitan area, including suburbs and surrounding cities, is more than ten times larger than that.

Los Angeles is a true megalopolis. Any L.A. native will attest to the city's vastness, nearly interminable traffic jams, and densely packed sidewalks. Still, few realize that the crowded urban environment has more than a handful of natural secrets.

These five breathtaking Los Angeles hikes will take you far and away from the bustling city streets so you can get a taste of nature during your stay.

Table of Contents

  • Hikes
    • 1. Franklin Canyon Park, Beverly Hills
    • 2. Eaton Canyon Natural Area, Altadena
    • 3. Will Rogers State Park, Santa Monica
    • 4. Topanga State Park, Topanga
    • 5. Griffith Park, Hollywood

Hikes

1. Franklin Canyon Park, Beverly Hills

Hiking trail in Franklin Canyon Park, Los Angeles (photo: David Lofink).
Franklin Canyon Park (photo: David Lofink)

Located in the geographical center of Los Angeles, you can conveniently access Franklin Canyon Park from any hotel around Los Angeles - and you can look for a good deal on sites like Expedia.com.

The park started as a natural summer retreat for a wealthy oil family in the 1930s, but today, it contains more than five miles of hikes, varying in difficulty and scenery.

Franklin Canyon is commonly used as a backdrop to major Hollywood films, most notably the memorable hitchhiking scene in Clark Gable's "It Happened One Night," so you can easily inject some pop culture fun into your day of hiking.

You can reach Franklin Canyon Park by heading north, following signs on Beverly Drive for Coldwater Canyon. After a series of left turns (at Coldwater/Beverly Drive, Fire Station Number 2, and Franklin Canyon Drive), you must continue through a small residential area to reach the park.

2. Eaton Canyon Natural Area, Altadena

The MYLF Frog can be found in Eaton Canyon (photo: USFS Region 5).
The MYLF Frog can be found in Eaton Canyon (photo: USFS Region 5)

Eaton Canyon is a nature preserve that protects the area's indigenous animals, plants, and geological formations. It spans more than 190 acres of what would be a prime Los Angeles suburb.

At the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, the area is teeming with attractions for visitors, from picnic areas to equestrian trails.

The best hike is the eponymous Eaton Canyon trail, which seems absurdly easy to start but quickly becomes rugged and fun, especially when it concludes at a remarkable 40-foot waterfall.

After a leisurely drive on the 210 Freeway, you should take Altadena Drive north until you spot the unmistakable park entrance.

See also: Renting a Car in Los Angeles

3. Will Rogers State Park, Santa Monica

There is more to Santa Monica than its world-famous pier. One of the earliest, most significant, and best stars of Old Hollywood, Will Rogers, once owned these 186 acres as his seaside ranch.

After the state protected the land, visitors were invited to tour Rogers's beautiful ranch house and grounds.

The park offers two amazing hikes: Inspiration Point, a two-mile trek culminating in expansive Pacific Ocean views, and Backbone Trail, a grueling adventure into the Santa Monica Mountains.

Once you get to Santa Monica, you can easily find signs pointing toward Will Rogers State Park.

Just east of Chautauqua Boulevard on Sunset Boulevard, you will see the main road to the park. This will take you to a small parking lot with a nominal fee, though you should be used to paying for parking by now.

4. Topanga State Park, Topanga

View of Topanga Canyon (photo: David Lofink).
View of Topanga Canyon (photo: David Lofink)

Topanga Canyon has long been a haven for hippies, and considering the exquisite scenery at this state park, it is no surprise why. It is easy to spend entire days wandering through the lush greenery in Topanga, and the longer hikes in this park are always more rewarding.

A favorite, the Los Liones Trail to Parker Mesa Overlook, is an alarming seven miles long. Still, the tantalizing glimpses of the Pacific, especially close to sunset, make the journey worthwhile.

Topanga is easiest to reach from Santa Monica, perhaps after enjoying a hike in Will Rogers State Park. Following Sunset Boulevard west, you should turn north on Los Liones Drive, and soon you'll run into the park's parking lot.

5. Griffith Park, Hollywood

Trails at Griffith Park, a popular place for Los Angeles hikes (photo: Clinton Steeds).
Trails at Griffith Park (photo: Clinton Steeds)

It may seem like the best-known park in the city, Griffith Park, would be so over-hiked that its trails offer nothing to the enterprising visitor.

In truth, several popular trails, especially the famous trek to the Griffith Observatory, which boasts picture-worthy views of the Hollywood sign and the entire city basin, will be densely crowded no matter when you go.

However, while some areas of Griffith Park are teeming with activity, others are relatively vacant. For example, Bronson Canyon, featured in plenty of films and TV series from "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" to "Army of Darkness" to "Batman," offers an otherworldly landscape, and Brush Canyon is perfect for peaceful, solitary trail runs.

Where you enter Griffith Park depends entirely on which trail you trek. Spanning over 4,300 acres, you can't miss the place, but the most convenient access to the trailheads is north of Los Feliz Boulevard.

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This post was brought to you in partnership with Expedia.

How to Reduce Waste When Eating Out

Australian Beach
Australia deserves to be kept beautiful

I've been exploring ways to produce less waste while traveling. Why, you might ask?

Well - have you ever wandered down the street of a foreign city (or your own) and felt disgusted by the amount of trash left lying on the sidewalk?

Have you strolled down a beautiful beach, only to pick your way around various plastic bottles and candy wrappers that have washed up upon the shores?

I have, and I wouldn't say I like it.

One of the easiest ways to produce less waste is to swap single-use, disposable items for products that you can easily take with you when out and about or on the road to use again and again.

With that in mind, let's look at one particular area that produces a ton of trash and waste - food.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Bring Eating Utensils
  • 2. Carry a Napkin or Handkerchief
  • 3. Use Your Own Containers and Bags
  • 4. Provide Your Own Cup
  • 5. Be Imaginative with Your Leftovers

1. Bring Eating Utensils

Plastic utensils are, in my opinion, one of the most unnecessary items on the planet. You use them once, and then it's in the bin and off to landfill they go, to rot for all eternity.

It's not hard nor inconvenient to carry around your own set of utensils, which you can use again and again.

I've found a spork to be a valuable item to take when traveling, particularly if I bring a carry-on bag through airport security.

(I have been questioned once, but they sent me on my way with a smile when they realized it was harmless!)

Also, when flying long haul, they will make an excellent addition to your zero waste travel kit.

If you eat massive amounts of Japanese takeaway like myself, it might be worth investing in a set of chopsticks as well.

produce less waste
Reusable napkin and an indispensable spork

2. Carry a Napkin or Handkerchief

Refuse the paper napkins you're offered when eating out and use your own to wipe food away instead.

Napkins can also be used instead of plastic and paper to wrap around food items such as sandwiches, subs, and hot dogs.

An alternative and far more handy resource is a hankie (or handkerchief), which had many uses back in the day, before the advent of disposable tissues.

Dapper gentlemen often used to carry them around to not only attend to nose issues but also wipe their hands clean from food (and offer them to any damsel in distress they may encounter throughout their day's activities).

I'm pretty mad about TSHU's handkerchiefs, which are pretty and practical. They even have one that's made out of organic cotton.

3. Use Your Own Containers and Bags

When you're ordering out, your food will often be presented to you in single-use containers that you'll discard shortly after eating.

If you know you're going to be eating on the go, you can pre-empt this by bringing along a reusable container or a sandwich bag.

When ordering, hand your container to the staff and ask them if they can put your food in it, rather than their own packaging. In most cases, I found people to be more than happy and willing to oblige.

4. Provide Your Own Cup

Big coffee drinker? I don't drink the stuff myself, but I've seen friends go through up to four cups of day, using a disposable cup each time they make an order.

If you're a big coffee (or tea!) drinker, consider bringing your own cup along with you the next time you get a beverage on the go.

Find a secondhand mason jar that you can adapt with a few tweaks, or invest in a reusable coffee cup of your own.

I use KeepCup, an Australian brand, and I think it's good to support local companies.

However, there are plenty of other options out there, which can probably be found in your local coffee or tea shop.

Along with hot beverages, use your cup for juices, smoothies, or even instead of plastic cups on public transport.

Keepcup
My beloved KeepCup.

5. Be Imaginative with Your Leftovers

If you're out eating and find yourself in the position where you're rapidly filling up, don't just abandon the food left on your plate.

Consumers across industrialized countries waste 220 million tons of food a year.

One way to combat this is to order smaller portions - a cup instead of a bowl of soup or a main without a starter.

If you find you can't finish all that is set down in front of you, ask for a doggy bag, and don't be afraid to bring your own container to ask restaurant staff to fill for you.

An equally effective way of getting rid of food waste is to compost it.

If you're lucky enough to have a backyard, consider investing in an outdoor compost bin - you'll be astounded by the list of items you can put in it.

Live in an apartment? No worries. Worm farms are pretty easy to put together, shouldn't release any offending odors, and can be kept on a shelf or under the kitchen sink.

If you're traveling or not keen on the idea of having a compost bin in your abode, never fear. Lots of cities have their own composting programs.

Community gardens are also a good option for depositing food waste, as many boast worm farms or compost bins.

These are just a few of the methods you can undertake to begin to produce less waste when traveling.

All it takes is some forward-thinking, preparation, and a little research to start doing your bit to help out the environment.

Why Oaxaca is My Favorite Place on Earth

Woman in Oaxaca
Woman in Oaxaca in traditional dress

When you travel, there are some places that have a certain grip on you, and where you find yourself staying for longer than you would have ever anticipated.

For me, that place is Oaxaca City (the capital of the state of Oaxaca) in south-central Mexico, and I ended up staying there for a year.

What's more, I'll be back in February to resume my life there and make it my permanent base. So what exactly makes Oaxaca such a special place?

Both Traditional and Progressive

Like much of Latin America, there is a strange and fascinating interplay between traditional and progressive attitudes in Oaxaca.

Traditions are particularly important here because Oaxaca is a city with many indigenous people, mostly from the Zapotec and Mixtec groups.

Visit one of the smaller towns just outside of the city such as Tlacolula or Zaachila on their market days and you'll forget that you are in the twenty-first century.

You will see women dressed up in the traditional clothes of the Zapotec people selling huge bulbs of garlic and onion on the floor.

You'll see them selling handmade Barro Negro pottery of the region, and inviting you to try their chapulines (fried grasshoppers).

And sometimes, you might find that you can't even communicate in Spanish because they still speak pre-Columbian languages.

And nestled in with all the tradition, you'll find that Oaxaca is also a really progressive place.

It is highly political, and you'll often see demonstrations in the main square (the Zocalo) and marches through the street, full of ordinary people desperate for real change in the political system.

The people are also very accepting and non-judgmental. In Europe, Catholicism translates as right-wing conservatism, but in Mexico, that's not the case.

The whole place is very "live and let live" even if it holds on strongly to both ancient traditions and a more recent commitment to the Catholic faith.

Market day in Tlacolula
Market day in Tlacolula (photo: Karen Corby)

La Comida Oaxaquena

It's difficult to mention any place in Mexico without some reference to the food, but if Mexico is a special place for food, then Oaxaca is epic.

Unofficially the street food capital of Mexico, you're best hitting the streets first thing in the morning and in the evening time for street grub.

The tamales here are the best in Mexico, and you'll also be able to find memelas, a kind of thick tortilla with a topping, molotes, which are usually deep-fried potato and chorizo balls, and more besides.

Lunch is the main meal of the day and lunchtime is normally at around 2 or 3 p.m. At this time, hit the local fondas for an epic lunch that should only set you back around $5 or so.

Don't miss the opportunity to try one of the seven moles, a famous dish made from chili, chocolate, spices, ground nuts, and ground fruits that comes from Oaxaca.

Food market
Food market (photo: Georgia)

It's Just Beautiful

Oaxaca is visually beautiful in so many ways. First of all, there are the colors.

As you walk the streets, you'll see houses painted in coral pink, sunshine yellow, deep turquoise, and every other color in the rainbow.

There is something so happiness-inducing about it, and I was always grateful for how color-filled my life was in Oaxaca.

Oaxaca is a very mountainous state, and because all the buildings are low (the local government doesn't allow tall buildings in the city), it's easy to see beyond the city itself and into the mountains, so you have these bright colors, and then epic green peaks in the distance. It never fails to take my breath away.

And those mountains aren't something untouchable in the background - you can also go hiking, cycling and horseback riding there, where the air is crisp and fresh.

Although the majority of the buildings are very low in Oaxaca, the churches are an exception, and this makes them stand out on the horizon all the more.

Everyone thinks that Italy and Europe have the world's most beautiful churches, but I reckon that Mexico really gives the Vatican a run for its money, and yet how often do you read or hear about the beautiful churches in Mexico? Hardly ever.

The two churches I particularly love are Santo Domingo and Basilica de la Soledad.

If you ever make it to Oaxaca and happen to see a skinny white guy perched outside either of these churches with a book in his hands, come over and say hi!

I am usually at one church or the other on most days.

Basilica de la Soledad
Basilica de la Soledad (photo: Abel Pardo López)

The People of Oaxaca

Of course, a connection to a place is so often about the people from there and who live there.

Oaxaquenos are endlessly friendly, but they're not over the top about it, which I appreciate.

When I travel to India, the people are friendly, but the friendliness can be overwhelming.

In Oaxaca, I am pretty much left to my own devices, but I know that I'll always be able to have a friendly chat with a café owner, I'll be given good prices from the people I buy fruits and veggies from regularly at the market, and people on the street will always help me with directions and public transport.

I also love how fiercely proud of their indigenous roots many people from Oaxaca are.

Visit cities in the north, like Mexico City and Monterrey, and you'll have a great time, but might also find that white skin is venerated. In Oaxaca, not so.

If you are Zapoteco, it's something that you hold really close to your heart, and it plays a big part in your life. And I love that.

Visit Oaxaca during July for the Guelaguetza festival, a month-long festival that celebrates all the indigenous groups across the state, and you'll feel how deeply this pride runs.

The truth is that although these points are reasons to love Oaxaca, this city is, for me, more than just the sum of its parts.

If you have ever fallen in love with a place on your travels, you'll know that sometimes the magic of a certain beach town, mountain village, or capital city just can't be rationalized.

I implore you to visit Oaxaca yourself, and if I'm there, it would be my pleasure to show you around.

Bangkok Food Scene: Where To Rendezvous and What To Eat

To understand the Bangkok food scene, we must first go over the fundamentals of Thai cuisine and the unique relationship between locals and their food.

Bangkok food scene, khanom bueang
Khanom bueang: a crepe-like dessert taco

First, Thai cuisine is not about simplicity. It incorporates at least three fundamental taste senses: bitter, sour, salty, sweet, and umami. The delicate balance of mixing such different taste profiles into one dish or meal makes Thai cuisine shine.

Another unique factor in the Thai food scene is the term "sum rap Thai," which describes how Thai people eat. Locals pay close attention to a dish's flavors, appearance, aroma, and how it complements every other part of the meal.

This complete experience, combining strong attention to detail, flavor, texture, color, and even medicinal benefits of the ingredients, makes eating in Thailand unforgettably exciting.

Naturally, there's no better place to glimpse it than at its capital, Bangkok. From back alley kitchens to tuk-tuk caravans, below are my first-hand rendezvous recommendations and dishes to try on your first dive into Bangkok's food scene.

The Roots of Thai Cuisine in Chinatown

Did you know several of the most celebrated Thai dishes are spin-offs of Chinese food? Moreover, well-known cooking techniques such as stir-frying, deep-frying, and wok usage were introduced by Chinese immigrants, mainly Hokkien and Teochew, starting in the 15th century.

I was introduced to the very roots of Thai cuisine in Chinatown by Taste of Thailand at night. Yaowarat Street lights up with life after the sun sets, drastically contrasting from its daylight flow. It was nearly unrecognizable to me, as most food vendors don't open shop until late at night!

Some treats you must try:

  • Chinese donuts (yau char kuai)
  • Fish ball soup (yen ta fo)
  • Thai coconut noodle dessert (lod chong)
  • Pork belly and offal noodle soup (kuay jab nam sai)
  • Chinese dumplings (dim sum, of course)
Bangkok food scene, fish ball soup
Fish ball soup (photo: LatinAbroad.com)

Cheapest Street Food Showdown at Sukhumvit Soi 38

Arguably, the cheapest street food in Thailand is found at Sukhumvit Soi 38. The food market in this Bangkok district is famous for its variety and convenience.

Most of the action starts around 6:30 p.m., slowly evolving throughout the night--with a few stalls open until sunrise. Think of stuffing your face for 150 baht (about $4.20) or less. WHAT?

Some must-tries:

  • Burmese-influenced, crispy egg noodle curry soup (khao soi)
  • Fresh fruit smoothies
  • Barbecued red pork and rice (khao moo daeng)
  • Rice stir fried with shrimp paste, with sides such as Chinese sausage and sweet pork (khao kluk kapi)
  • Thai coconut ice cream
Bangkok food scene, khao soi
Khao soi, a Northern delicacy (photo: LatinAbroad.com)

Foodie Crawl by Tuk-Tuk

Imagine a caravan of tuk-tuks scouring the most incredible night eats around the city?! Taking a midnight food tour by tuk-tuk that began at 8 p.m., I saw how many of the city's stalls slowly spring to life. This was my most memorable experience exploring the Bangkok food scene for the first time.

I discovered mouth-watering bites in back alley kitchens, shopped in local night markets, had a few drinks at a secret bar with stunning views of one of Bangkok's landmarks, and even visited a popular temple in solitude at 11 p.m.

It wasn't just a foodie outing but a well-rounded cultural experience. Worthy dishes, though?

  • A sweeter version of Isaan's green papaya salad (som tum)
  • Sticky rice with mango (khao neeo mamuang)
  • Coconut crêpe taco (khanom bueang)
  • Egg-wrapped phat thai (phat thai hor khai)
Bangkok food scene, tuk tuk and pad thai
Egg-wrapped pat Thai (left) and one of Bangkok's infamous tuk-tuks (right)

Four Types of Regional Cuisine in Historic Bang Rak

While many argue that the Bangkok food scene is best enjoyed at night, some hidden gems can be explored in broad daylight. Bang Rak, meaning "Village of Love" in Thai, is a historic, authentic neighborhood hiding some of the roots of Thailand's Royal cuisine.

How so? Well, in that neighborhood lies an eatery where you can sample dishes cooked by direct descendants of the royal family!

Moreover, you can have unadulterated dishes from all the main Thai regions:

  • Central Plains (around Bangkok's Delta)
  • North (around Chiang Mai)
  • Northeast (Isaan plateau)
  • South (on the Malay Peninsula)

Some must-try dishes in Bang Rak?

  • Spicy, fermented fish innards curry (kaeng tai pla)
  • Green curry (gaeng kiaw wan)
  • Rice soaked in jasmine-scented water (khao chae)
  • Gaeng massaman + braised beef + stir-fried crab with curry powder + pan-fried fish + mushroom salad + chili paste with fresh veggies + sago and black beans, a true royal set (sum-rub)
Bangkok food scene, green curry
Green Curry (photo: Wikipedia)

_____

Special thanks to Taste of Thailand and Bangkok Food Tours for introducing me to the vast, exciting Bangkok food scene free of charge. All opinions, dish selections, and rendezvous mentioned in this article are my honest opinion, though. These are my personal favorites.

The Highlights of Doha, Qatar

Qatar is a tiny country that, in recent years, has managed to make its presence known on the world stage. My prediction?

Camel in Doha, Qatar
A Qatari camel

Doha is going to be the new Dubai. Mark my words. You read it here first.

In 2014, I was lucky enough to spend a few months living and working in Doha. I enjoyed the experience immensely and was pleasantly surprised by the abundance of available activities.

If you've got a holiday coming up, are moving there as an expat, or are just curious about the city itself, here are some of the highlights of Doha, Qatar.

Table of Contents

  • Drive Down the Singing Sand Dunes
  • Visit the Souq Waqif
  • Camp by the Sea
  • Stroll Through the Museum of Islamic Art
  • Check Out the East-west / West-east Sculpture
  • Eat as Much Food as Your Stomach Can Handle

Drive Down the Singing Sand Dunes

You can't go to Qatar and not make a trip out into the desert. However, you should book a tour with a professional driver.

Many of these blokes have been navigating dunes for years - they know their way around and how to handle driving on this particular terrain.

Many visitors believe they can hire a car and go to it alone. This is all very good until you become bogged down in the sand or damage your axle.

The Qatari desert is the last place you want to be stranded, especially in the middle of summer - I can assure you of that!

The first time I went out into the desert was on a day trip to visit the "Singing Sand Dunes" - dunes that vibrate when you drive down them, emitting a low humming sound.

We capped this off with a quick dip in the ocean, the shores of Saudi Arabia visible in the distance. Bliss.

Visit the Souq Waqif

The Souq Waqif mixes a marketplace and an outdoor shopping center. Stalls sell pashminas, trinkets, jewelry, souvenirs, street food, and Qatari pearls.

If you're hungry rather than peckish, there's also a range of restaurants to choose from - Moroccan, Iranian, and Egyptian food, to name a few.

One of my favorite things to do there was to enjoy a reasonably priced and decadent meal and then order some shisha (hookah) and people-watch.

There were always loads of interesting sorts to be found at the souq. Animal lovers will want to stay away from the pet section. You have been warned.

Related: Business Class on Qatar Airways

Qatari desert
Sunrise over the ocean after a long night spent out in the desert

Camp by the Sea

Camping by the sea remains the standout experience while living in Doha.

It consisted of a drive out to a beachside camp, where we swam in the ocean until (and after) the sun went down. We then ate a BBQ dinner and traded stories well into the night over shisha.

From there, we spent hours stargazing under a clear night sky, on a dune not far from camp, before re-entering the ocean to watch the sunrise.

It was a magical night that I hope to remember until the end of my days.

Stroll Through the Museum of Islamic Art

Arabic culture is ancient and fascinating - a fact that is well demonstrated at the Museum of Islamic Art.

This space features Islamic art from three continents, created over the last 1,400 years.

Pieces are made out of all sorts of mediums - jewelry, glasswork, and ceramics, to name a few.

If you're short on time, you can skip entering the museum and check out the building. Architect I. M. Pei designed it, and it is a work of art.

Serra Sculptures
Richard Serra's sculptures in the Qatari desert

Check Out the East-west / West-east Sculpture

In 2014, American artist Richard Serra unveiled his latest work - the East-west / West-east sculptures, which lie out in the Qatari desert within the Brouq nature reserve.

These four steel structures are each over fourteen meters in height and span a kilometer in length.

They are a stunning sight, seen in the flesh. Check them out up close, and then make sure you walk some distance away to look at them from afar to make the most of your time there.

The whole experience is otherworldly - not only due to the sculptures but the desolation of the desert itself and the silence.

Sometimes I think the absence of noise is more noticeable than the sounds of the busiest cities.

Eat as Much Food as Your Stomach Can Handle

You wouldn't think of Doha as a foodie destination - but I can assure you it is.

I spent much time and money feasting at the Australian-owned Jones the Grocer.

Their Harissa Chicken Cous Cous is excellent, as are all the desserts!

For my first month in Doha, living in a hotel and lacking a kitchen, I ate almost daily at the Quick Bites café in the Marriott City Centre hotel. Their pizzas are delicious.

Yet, the best was Chilli Dog Tuesday at the Gordon Ramsay Opal Restaurant (not to be confused with the real Gordon Ramsay restaurant).

For 125 Qatari Riyals (around $35), you were treated to a stream of not only the best chili dogs you'll ever consume but also fries, a drink, and a deliciously indulgent chocolate ice cream.

It's worth every cent.

Although Doha, Qatar, may not be your first choice for a holiday - it's well worth the trip.

There's much more to do there than I had imagined; it remains one of the most interesting and diverse countries I have visited.

How to Travel Japan on $10 a Day or Less

Bicycle

The following is a guest post by Lindo Korchi.

"I want to travel to Japan, but I don't have that much money!" exclaimed my younger self.

Today, I hear that same echo as I speak to family and friends. I'm here to let you know that it's definitely possible to travel without a lot of money while in Japan, even on $10 a day!

I understand the feeling of not having much money because I'm now in the same situation. I've searched online for budget-friendly ways to travel, yet even they were out of my price range (ex: $50 a day).

Trust me, it's frustrating, but that's when creativity begins to form, and a new door is created.

I'll give you an example: I love Japan. It's a country I've been fascinated with ever since I discovered that it made my childhood special via my two favorite shows: Pokemon & Yu-Gi-Oh.

From there, I expanded my knowledge of Japanese culture and fell in love with it. But I faced a big problem: I loved an expensive country and didn't have the finances to survive in Japan.

I had two options:

1. Cry about it.

2. Somehow find a way to travel Japan on a budget that was realistic for me. I tried option 1 and, well, it didn't get me anywhere besides the bathroom for more tissues. So I was only left with option 2.

Planning a trip to Japan? Book budget-friendly train passes here!

Table of Contents

  • Dealing with Accommodation, Food, Transport, & Attractions
  • Creating the $10 a day Budget and Why It's Not Suited For Everyone
  • Budgeting for the Week
  • An Example of How $10 a Day is Truly Possible
  • Travel in its Simplest Form

Dealing with Accommodation, Food, Transport, & Attractions

I realized that one of the biggest costs is accommodation. However, it never made sense to me. The majority of a person's finances is spent on a place they'll spend the least amount of active time.

My first step was to find a way around this barrier. Thankfully, Japan has hostels that allow you to work a few hours a day in exchange for accommodation. Bingo. I chose to go that route.

Next, the cost of food, transportation, and attractions were something I had to consider as well. I began to focus on priorities.

Yes, I'd love to buy everything in Tokyo, ride the Shinkansen all across Japan (which I still haven't been on), and alike, but my finances don't allow such, or if so, it would make for an extremely short trip.

While I do eat out in Japan, it's not every day. As for transportation & attractions, I'm not too crazy for attractions, and I usually walk and use a bike to get around, along with the occasional train ride.

My priority is to experience the country, meet the people, engage with the community, and enjoy the everyday life of Japanese society; to enjoy the rich culture without having to live by the media portrayal of spending = living.

The fact is that equation is an illusion. No amount of money can buy the experiences, friends, and adventures you get by simply traveling an area. It's when you don't have money that creativity begins to take place, and that's special.

Friends
Friends

Creating the $10 a day Budget and Why It's Not Suited For Everyone

When I arrived in Japan on Oct 6th, 2015, I didn't have a budget in mind. Within a week, I had no idea how much I was spending. On the 14th of Oct, I decided to stop the madness.

I was afraid that budgeting myself would limit & stress me, but it put me more in control and gave me peace of mind. It was the fact that I wasn't budgeting that stressed and limited me. Interesting, isn't it?

I saw that I could afford to do $70/week or $10/day. Though, before I continue, you have to keep in mind that while traveling for $10/day is possible, it's not possible for everyone and may ruin the experience of travel for some.

This budget excludes flights, an overnight bus to a new destination (ex: Kyoto to Fukuoka), and a month-long bike rental ($30-$60).

Though, with the bike rental, if I wanted to challenge myself, I could add it as part of the budget – maybe I'll test it.

Another thing to keep in mind, which is when I've been called “boring” or “too simple,” is that I'm not really into parties, clubs, attractions, dates, or drinks – and because of such, my finances don't go towards those things.

These things may appeal to others, and if so, I don't believe the $10/day budget would be possible.

Before implementing this budget, there were three points that showed me that it was indeed possible:

1. When I lived in NY, CA, and CO, I didn't have a job, but I still managed to somehow collect great memories, experiences, and friends without having any money.

2. If people, who have no money at all, could still enjoy life and give a genuine smile, then I, having $10/day, could surely find that humble spirit to do the same.

3. While I would like to have more than $10/day, I appreciate what I have and am grateful for it.

Budget

Budgeting for the Week

I've always enjoyed home-cooked meals over eating out (Thanks, Ma!). So, in Japan, I go to the supermarket & use the local ingredients to whip up a good, filling meal.

Here is a breakdown and example of one of my drafts for the first week of starting the $10 a day budget while in Kyoto, Japan:

  • Kishimen noodles: ($1 each), 10 (for 2 a day, lasting for 5 days) = $10
  • Udon noodles: ($.40 each), 4 (for 2 a day, lasting for 2 days) = $2
  • Sauces: Sukiyaki sauce ($2), Soy sauce ($2), Sushi sauce ($2) (lasting the entire week) = $6
  • Eggs: ($3 each) 1 (pack of 10 eggs for the week) = $3
  • Bread: ($1 each) 2 (totaling 16 slices to last 8 days) = $2
  • Fried tofu: ($2 each) 2 (dividing it by 3 to last for 6 days) = $4
  • Chicken: ($2 each) (3 packs to last for 3 days) = $6
  • Total: $35/week on grocery food for the above. (I rounded all costs to the highest dollar. Ex. $1.50? $2., plus rounded the above of $33/week simple to $35 for the week to make things simple)

After having spent $35, I have an extra $35 left over. I can use it to eat out once a week ($8-$10/ramen bowl; or, maybe, more groceries if I'd like. Explore Osaka & return to Kyoto ($8 round-trip), check out Kinkakuji ($4), Ginkakuji ($5), have some onigiri ($1), Japanese sweets & pastries ($1-$6), etc.

To make things simple, I treat each ?100 (yen) and make it equal to $1.00, even though it equals $0.81.

So when I say I spend $10 a day, or $70 a week, it's technically 1,000/day ($8), or 7,000/week ($56), but it just makes things simple in daily life when thinking of each yen as the equivalent to a U.S. dollar.

Alternatively, I can just spend ?8,000/week ($65), since that would be closer to $70/week. I can then set?4,000/week for grocery & the other?4,000/week for anything else, or any other structure.

I also found that managing my finances with the local currency was easier and saved me more money than trying to manage it with a credit card.

Also, there's something personal when you're in a country and using their currency rather than your card.

An Example of How $10 a Day is Truly Possible

Money quote

Even with the above points, it's still hard to consider this method as a practical possibility, I'm sure.

However, I want you to ask this question: "What is the difference between you, who has limited funds, and a Japanese student (example: Toshiro) living in Tokyo who doesn't have any sort of income?"

I want you to put this into consideration:

You may think it's impossible to travel to Tokyo for a month with an extremely limited budget. However, Toshiro is a college student in Tokyo who lives with his parents and has never held a job, thus has no money.

Regardless of this fact, Toshiro can still experience the country, meet with friends, hang out in manga shops, explore the city, engage with the community, and is embraced by Japanese society.

Is that not the whole reason you want to visit Japan? Little to no finance isn't limiting Toshiro from doing any of the mentioned points above, so why should it limit you?

Or, put in another way, your finances aren't limiting you from doing any of the mentioned points in your city, so what's the difference? Experiences don't cost anything; it's all in the perspective.

Now, let's add you into the picture. As Toshiro, you have free accommodation in Tokyo (via volunteering, etc.), unlike Toshiro, you don't have your meals covered (unless you volunteer in a place that provides food -- no sarcasm), but that's where your $35 comes into play for the week.

And here's the best part: unlike Toshiro, you have an extra $35 (or full $70) for the week to further explore the city as much as Toshiro, plus some. Does this now seem more possible?

Quote

Travel in its Simplest Form

I've been called “boring” and “too simple,” and if those words are far from describing who you are, then this budget would not suit you.

If, on the other hand, you can relate to those words to a degree, and have a limited budget, then this is something worth exploring.

I plan to stay in Japan until the beginning of January 2016. This time-frame, equipped with my accommodation, grants me the time to explore the places I'd like to see, and eat out while still maintaining my $10/day budget.

You may not have a lot of money, and neither do I, but we can explore the world if we choose to do so in its simplest and most essential form.

Live it up, this is your chance. Let me know if you'll be in Japan from now until January, I'd love to meet!

________

P.S. This budget puts into perspective that we can enjoy life even without a lot of money. I challenge you to enjoy your life without spending much, for a week, or even on $10 a day ($70/week).

I'm sure you'll gain a rich experience and still enjoy life in its simplest form. It's all in the perspective that makes life an adventure – not the finances.

The Coolest Museums in London (You Never Knew Existed)

HMS Belfast (photo: George Rex)
HMS Belfast (photo: George Rex)

If you have ever visited London, you will know that it's one of the greatest cities for museums in the world.

Giant museums and galleries such as the British Museum and the Tate Modern regularly host blockbuster exhibitions.

They are often free to attend, so even budget backpackers can enjoy cultural time in the British capital.

But aside from the big hitters like the Tate, there are other smaller museums in London, which you might bypass without some insider knowledge.

Fortunately, as a born and bred Londoner, I can give you the inside track on the most remarkable museums in London that you've probably never heard of.

Table of Contents

  • The Cartoon Museum
  • Geffrye Museum
  • The Freud Museum
  • New London Architecture
  • V&A Museum of Childhood
  • HMS Belfast
  • London Canal Museum

The Cartoon Museum

Slap bang in the heart of London, you can find a museum dedicated to the art of British cartoons and comic art since the 18th-century.

These cartoons aren't just great to look at - they play an important role in the country's social history, and political cartoons were right at the heart of British satire in centuries past.

And if you're interested in this topic, be sure to get in touch with The Cartoon Museum's staff and arrange to peruse their collection of 5,000 books on comics and cartoons.

Alms Houses (photo: Barry Caruth)
Alms Houses (photo: Barry Caruth)

Geffrye Museum

This museum, an 18th-century alms-house dedicated to showing how British homes have changed over the centuries, occupies a special place in my life because I used to live just a stone's throw from it for many years.

As well as playing host to a series of charming rooms, the gardens are a significant reason to visit Geffrye Museum.

The period gardens show how domestic gardening has changed over the last four centuries, and they attract lots of birds and butterflies.

The Freud Museum

Although Freud was Austrian, he spent the last year of life in London with his family following their escape from Austria and the Nazi takeover, and this museum is situated in the house they lived in.

The house contains many original artifacts that shed light on how Freud and his family lived.

Of course, the most iconic item in the collection is Freud's psychoanalytic couch, where his patients would recline and undergo probing analysis by one of the twentieth century's greatest thinkers.

New London Architecture

One of the newest kids on the block, New London Architecture is much more than an architecture museum - it's a place where the changing cityscape is put under a microscope, debated, and discussed.

If, for no other reason, visit New London Architecture for their impressive interactive installation of London's physical development through the ages, including projections, interactive elements, and film.

Also, be sure to book a place on one of their fascinating walking tours.

Museum of Childhood
Museum of Childhood (photo: Conservation by Design Ltd)

V&A Museum of Childhood

This is another London museum that I lived close to in the East End, so I've visited on more than a handful of occasions.

Indeed, the main reason I visited this museum was that the building is so spectacular, a 19th-century structure made of iron and red brick.

Venture inside the Museum of Childhood, and you'll be no less impressed with its collection of childhood objects - the most extensive in the country.

The permanent collection tells a social history of British childhood, but there are also fascinating temporary exhibitions such as the current "Kites from Kabul" exhibit.

HMS Belfast

This is a museum like no other in London, chiefly because the whole museum is set aboard a historic British warship floating on the Thames.

Even though it's set on a boat, HMS Belfast is larger than many other museums in the capital, set over an expanse of nine decks.

Wander the decks, and you'll be immersed in the story of what life was like for shipmates from the Second World War and beyond.

You can even experience a sea battle by taking the helm in the gun turret.

London Canal Museum

After exploring the capital, you won't fail to notice that the city is dotted with many waterways, including canals.

The UK was the first country to implement a nationwide canal system.

This pioneering and extensive transport system is why the country became such a significant player on the world stage during the Industrial Revolution.

At the London Canal Museum, you can learn more about this fascinating history, and you can peek inside some canal boats themselves.

The museum itself is a fascinating Victorian ice warehouse where you can also learn about Britain's ice trade.

4 Advantages of Using Grabr to Shop Internationally

Grabr illustration

The company’s claim is a big one: get anything delivered to you, on demand, from anywhere in the world.

Grabr - a peer to peer delivery service not only aims to make shopping internationally easier, but it also wants to reward travelers for helping to make their concept a global reality.

Table of Contents

  • The Concept
  • 1. Make Money While You Travel
  • 2. Order Products For You
  • 3. Order Gifts When You're Away
  • 4. Connecting With New People
  • My Conclusion

The Concept

Grabr has created an online platform that allows travelers and shoppers to collaborate.

The aim is for a faster and more convenient way of getting foreign goods delivered. This means that any traveler can accept requests for products and then pick up the items while on the road and deliver them to the buyer.

Grabr

1. Make Money While You Travel

Grabr’s website features simple navigation, offering visitors the option to click “Travel,” “Shop” or “Blog.” I began my tour of the site with Travel.

The Travel page’s headline is “Make Money While You Travel,” and asks if you’ve ever been asked to bring something home from a trip with the promise of “Now you can finally get paid.”

Here I found a list of people and the items that they were looking to be purchased on their behalf.

For example, one listing was entitled “Fedyaev is looking for 13-inch MacBook Pro With Retina Display.”

When I clicked the “Make Your Offer” button, I was prompted to connect via my Facebook page.

The item price was $1,299 and the default offer, or fee to be paid by the buyer to the traveler for purchasing the item (plus customs duty, and taxes) was $20. However, the amount of the offer can be customized by the traveler.

For example, a hard-to-obtain or heavy item will likely need a higher offer by the traveler to make it worth his or her time and effort.

The traveler can then set a delivery date and enter his/her personal information.

As the traveler collecting the item for sale, I get reimbursed the amount owed to me once the person buying it has received it, and confirmed that it is in good condition.

2. Order Products For You

What I like about Grabr is that you don’t have to travel all the way back to a country to pick up those unique/hard-to-find goods/products that you wish you had bought.

If you’re looking for inspiration, you can check out the Featured section and shop.

They display items such as Bayer Vital, Priorin hair capsules for $75. When I clicked on this product, it took me to a new page on the Grabr website where I could buy it directly. This is known as “Creating a grab.”

Grabr

3. Order Gifts When You're Away

You can even order a gift from through Grabr to send to your best friend or favorite family member while you’re away.

The Holiday Gift section includes gifts from all over the world, such as maple gloves from Canada and a Laduree teacup gift box.

This is especially handy for holidays like Father’s Day as you can buy presents like the Kiehl’s Ultimate Man Full Body Refueling Set, or click on the Food section to get your mom some Loose Leaf Tea from Harrods without having to fly to London.

4. Connecting With New People

It also allows us, travelers, to meet new people as we bring back an item they’ve requested.

As a buyer, if you’re concerned about the site not being safe, Grabr puts the payment on hold until the grab has been delivered and confirmed by the shopper. Only then is the payment released to the traveler.

My Conclusion

After spending time on the website, the only limitation I see at the moment is that you need a bank account in the U.S. or Canada to take part.

In all my 17 years of travel, I’ve never seen anything like Grabr before. Not only is it entirely different, but it’s a great way of getting your hands on an item without having to travel internationally.

_________

This story was written in partnership with Grabr; all opinions are the author's own.

Backpacking Off the Beaten Track in Central Asia

The worldwide travel and tourism industry has thrived over the last decade, which means it is becoming challenging to find off-the-beaten-track places to explore.

If you're here with us on Go Backpacking, then chances are you like going where the crowds aren't. Here are three such places in central Asia to consider.

Museum in Uzbekistan (photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra)
Museum in Uzbekistan (photo: Jean-Pierre Dalbéra)

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is not a well-known travel destination, nor for any specific reason in general.

That's why most people would be hard-pressed to find it on a map.

While this central Asian country is a mystery to mass travelers, it is pretty appealing to backpackers precisely because of its obscurity.

But, don't make the mistake of thinking an Uzbekistan holiday has nothing to offer its travelers.

Its people are traditionally very friendly to foreign tourists. It has a unique culture and rich history.

You will be amazed at seeing its towering minarets and sparkling turquoise domes adorned with intricate mosaics.

The more you explore, the more you will learn about the Islamic architecture of the country in its ancient cities.

The country boasts some natural wonders as well.

Darvaza gas crater, Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan
Darvaza gas crater, Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan (photo: Stefan Krasowski)

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is perhaps the most unexplored country in Central Asia and a great mystery to most travelers.

This little-known country boasts majestic monuments, a totalitarian theme park, a unique culture, and the Karakum Desert.

Its ancient cities of Merv and Konye-Urgench are full of unexpected adventures. The people of this country are known for their hospitality.

The biggest draw that attracts most travelers is that much of this central Asian country has been touched by modern development.

When planning out your budget to travel to Turkmenistan and other places, you can find great resources on the Price of Travel.

Tian Shan Mountains
Tian Shan Mountains (photo: Thomas Depenbusch)

Kyrgyzstan

Often termed the "Switzerland of Central Asia," Kyrgyzstan is a country with vertiginous pine forests, glistening glaciers, and soaring mountain ranges.

Despite its considerable size and having infinite natural beauty, most people find it difficult to spot this country on a map and the others.

That alone can be enough to conclude that very few people visit this landlocked country.

It's safe to say mass tourism does not exist in Kyrgyzstan. As a result, you can expect to find everything relatively cheap.

The landscapes of Kyrgyzstan are surprisingly varied; it looks like Switzerland in some places, and in other areas, the country can conjure up the images of Kashmir, Scotland, and many Middle East countries.

Its mountains alone are enough of a reason to visit.

In conclusion, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan are not crowded yet have plenty to offer visitors.

So, if you are looking to see and experience something new and unique, you're going to love your backpacking experience in these countries.

_______

This story was brought to you in partnership with Silk Road Tours.

Moving Overseas: The Downsides of Expat Life

Moving overseas is an adventure that I would recommend to anyone and everyone.

Since moving overseas, I've grown as a person and discovered more about the world than I could ever have anticipated.

Gordon's Bay
Gordon's Bay in Sydney... I feel homesick when I think about this beach!

That said, it's also the hardest thing I've ever done. There are many downsides of expat life, which don't always get mentioned.

I'd equally recommend anyone considering spending a decent amount of time abroad to approach it with great trepidation for the following reasons.

Table of Contents

  • The Homesickness. Oh, the Homesickness
  • People Will Forget About You
  • You Won't Be Able to Avoid Culture Shock
  • You'll Miss Key Events, and it Will Bother You
  • Your Life Won't Magically Become Ten Times Better Overnight
  • You May Never Want to Return Home

The Homesickness. Oh, the Homesickness

Homesickness is funny, as it tends to hit you when you least expect it. I was terribly homesick when I first moved to the UK, and everything set me off.

The weather, seeing dogs in the street, pictures of my friends at the beach on Instagram... even hearing the famous Australian soap Home and Away theme song.

There's nothing you can do to combat it, either. Just try to keep busy and distract yourself. It gets easier over time, but it never truly goes away.

People Will Forget About You

It's all rainbows and puppy dogs when you first move overseas. People say they miss you. They email you. They send you letters. They call you.

However, over time, the contact becomes less and less. Emails go unanswered, and your phone can remain silent for days.

It's easy to forget that life in your native country will continue, with or without you. We're all wrapped up in our own lives, and for some, it's simply a case of "out of sight, out of mind."

It hurts; there's no doubt about that. However, it will teach you who your real friends are.

The people who take the time out of their days to email you, send you Christmas cards or birthday presents, set aside time to Skype, or even visit you are truly your forever friends - the ones you know will always be around, no matter what.

Cherish them, and make sure you do the same in return! These are the friendships that can indeed go the distance. When you reunite, it will be as if no time has passed.

Related: How to Cure Homesickness

Dog
(Wo)man's best friend - they can't Skype, but you'll know they miss you.

You Won't Be Able to Avoid Culture Shock

It can be pretty strange to live in countries with cultures similar to your own. An Australian in the United Kingdom. A Canadian in the States. An American in New Zealand.

Australian culture bears many similarities to that of the English.

We're skilled in self-deprecation, are equally as wild about cricket, and share a particular enthusiasm for excessively consuming alcoholic beverages.

So, I often get lulled into a false sense of security. England feels a lot like home in more ways than one.

Then, someone will do or say something that will completely spin me out. Or I'll unknowingly say something considered obnoxious and immediately alienate everyone in the room.

It's an immediate jolt back to reality and can sometimes act as a trigger point for our old friend, homesickness.

You'll Miss Key Events, and it Will Bother You

Since I've moved overseas, I've missed engagements, weddings, significant birthdays, and my baby brother's graduation.

If you're lucky, you may be able to time visits back home with some of these events. However, you won't be able to attend everything. You'll disappoint people and feel like you're missing out.

My advice? Stay off social media on the days you know something big is happening. You'll feel better for it.

Your Life Won't Magically Become Ten Times Better Overnight

There's a lot to be said about living in the moment. If you're not fully content in life, you're living in your own country... who is to say you're going to be any happier in another?

I spent many years in my hometown of Sydney, daydreaming about what my life would be like when I moved abroad. I had pretty high expectations when I finally made the move to London.

It was a much more complicated process than I had initially thought. I had to find a new job, a house, a gym, make new friends, and get my bearings in a new city.

These were things that I already had at home and had taken entirely for granted.

It can take anywhere between six months to a year to settle into life in a new country, and during that time, you're going to continually question why you ever left home. Stick it out. It's worth it, I can assure you of that.

Downsides of expat life
Another downside of expat life is being unable to see the stars from London!

You May Never Want to Return Home

You may not want to stay in your current city forever, but that doesn't necessarily mean you'll want to go home. Instead, you'll spend hours looking at maps and researching places online.

You'll be plagued by the same questions again and again. Where can you go next? Will you be able to find work there? Which part of the city will you live in?

The biggest problem with expat life is that it becomes addictive. You're continually doing new activities, meeting people, and traveling to the most exciting places.

Once you've tasted life overseas, you may never want to return home.

There are many downsides to expat life, but it's worth riding them out. Life is not constant - it is a series of peaks and troughs.

The better you weather the bad, the more rewarding the good times will be.

5 Simple Steps to Start Planning Your Next Journey

Haggia Sophia - Istanbul
Hagia Sophia - Istanbul (photo: David Lee)

As we prepare to head into the new year, thousands and likely tens of thousands of newly minted college graduates from around the world will head off on backpacking trips ranging from a few weeks to "forget it, I'm not going home!"

Like Dave of Go Backpacking, who found a new home in Medellín, Colombia toward the end of his 'round the world trip, it's possible you will too.

That's why it pays to plan ahead and leave your home country in tip-top shape, physically and financially. Here are a few basics every traveler should think about.

Table of Contents

  • 1. See Your Doctor(s)
  • 2. Travel Insurance
  • 3. Banking and Credit Cards
  • 4. Plan Your Journey
  • 5. Research Local Customs

1. See Your Doctor(s)

It’s a good idea to book an appointment with a doctor or health professional at least six months before you’re due to go on the trip of a lifetime.

You’ll not only need to arrange your travel vaccinations, but you should have a routine physical and vision test too.

It may sound strange, but getting your hearing tested is also important and by clicking here you’ll be able to arrange an appointment.

If you are going to certain countries you’ll need to have specialized vaccinations, but if you’re sticking to travel in the UK and Europe, you won’t need much advanced medical preparation.

2. Travel Insurance

The Travel Independent website gives some very important advice on the types of insurance that you take out.

There is not only health cover to think about, but also emergency evacuation, cancellation, and theft insurance.

The last thing you want is to lose your smartphone and have no means of communication.

You should arrange your cover as early as possible and try to read the small print.

There are lots of policies and the prices and coverage vary dramatically.

3. Banking and Credit Cards

One of the most important things to consider when going backpacking is how to gain access to your money. You can carry some cash, though it’s not advisable to carry too much at once.

The best strategy is to rely on plastic and taking money out of ATM machines, but sometimes accessing your account in a foreign country can command very high transaction fees, so check with your bank before you go.

You can always keep your money supply topped up by working temporary jobs or you could start a blog.

The HappyTime blog explains how you can set one up and how to earn money at the same time.

4. Plan Your Journey

You might have a rough idea about where you want to visit, but if you actually sit down with your laptop or even a map, you will be able to better plan your route.

You’re going to want to see some of the local culture and nightlife, but you don’t really want to be taken for a ride, literally.

If a travel agency or website is offering the bargain of a lifetime, be wary, they probably want your money and won’t give you anything in return.

5. Research Local Customs

Every country has its own customs and traditions and in some areas, you have to make sure that you follow the rules.

For example, if you're going to a Muslim country, read up on dress/undress protocols before you walk on to a beach, especially if you’re female.

If you're in Saudi Arabia, you’re not allowed to kiss in public, so take care. Just read up on the customs of every country you plan to visit before you set off and you'll minimize mistakes in etiquette and the attraction of unwanted attention.

World's Best Cities for Gay Clubbing

Some people travel to get in touch with nature, and some travel to learn more about cultures in far-flung lands. And some people travel to party! If you want to forget about the stresses of daily life by going wild on the dance floor, get to these best cities for gay clubbing.

One of the best things about the gay travel scene is that it caters to hedonism. The best places in these cities deliver for the gay community.

TLV nightclub in Tel Aviv, one of the world's best cities for gay clubbing. (photo: David Shankbone)
TLV nightclub in Tel Aviv (photo: David Shankbone)

Berlin

Okay, Berlin is a bit of an obvious choice for gay nightlife. But it's evident because it's such an epic place for parties that it cannot be ignored!

As one of the most prominent hipster destinations on the planet, it's also highly gay-friendly.

I might describe it more as gay-dominant and straight-friendly. So don't worry if you are a hetero who wants in on the action - you'll be welcome in the club too!

My lasting memory from visiting Berlin is dancing to Torn by Natalie Imbruglia in Club Schwuz in the early morning hours. I mean, how brilliantly weird is that?

And if you want something a little darker and more "clubby," you can't beat Berghain - an "after-hours" joint that has been described as the best club in the world more than once.

Related: Why Every Traveler Should Attend a Gay Pride Festival

Pride Parade in London, one of the best cities for gay clubbing (photo: Ian Taylor)
London Pride Parade (photo: Ian Taylor)

London

The truth is that London's gay scene is in decline. A handful of my favorite places from just a few years back have closed down, primarily because of the high rent prices in England's capital.

But even when it's in decline, London is a more happening city than most, and it still deserves a spot on our list of the best cities for gay clubbing.

If you go to one club night in London, it has to be Duckie at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern, which has held its own each Saturday night for over twenty years.

The crowd remains the most diverse of any gay club night in the capital.

You can expect to hear big pop tunes, but there is also live performance art every week for something different.

And if you want a gay megaclub, London has those too. G-A-Y at Heaven attracts the biggest pop talent to perform every Saturday night.

If you want to dance to thumping techno, you should head to Fire and take your shirt off with the Muscle Maries.

Related: Europe's Best Gay Beaches

Performance in a gay club, location unknown
Club (photo: ?)

Buenos Aires

Latin America has always been a place that has been friendly towards the LGBTQ community, with same-sex marriage legalized in many countries way before the United States or the United Kingdom.

And it's in the major cities of South America that you can find the most epic gay clubs and parties.

Buenos Aires is the place to be for those who love to party, not into the night but the early hours of the morning.

There are two neighborhoods for gay partying in Buenos Aires: San Telmo, which is the historical center and has a relaxed, vibrant feel, and Palermo, which is more upscale and swanky.

For a taste of the city's LGBT history, don't miss Contramano, the oldest gay club in the city, now over thirty years old.

That club tends to draw an older crowd, so if you want big beats and sexy guys, Amerika Disco is the place to visit, dance, be seen, and make new friends. There are three floors of music, and you'll have an unforgettable time.

Related: Challenges of Being a Gay Traveler

Drag queen with a disco ball (photo: Greta Hoffman)
Drag queen with a disco ball (photo: Greta Hoffman)

New York City

The Big Apple is one of the world's most exciting cities for many reasons, not least because of its enduring appeal to the LGBT community.

New York City is split up into five boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island), and the type of scene you're after will dictate where you hang out.

The Hell's Kitchen area of Manhattan is where you go for budget dining and hot gay clubbing.

You can catch a drag show at Industry Bar after work; things heat up if you take the party to XL Nightclub, officially NY's largest gay nightclub.

But if you want something a little more off the wall, you would be better off venturing to Brooklyn.

Okay, Brooklyn might be more of a lounge around, have a drink, and look at the hipsters kind of place, but there are still definitely big parties where you can shimmy.

Metropolitan has been a staple on the Williamsburg scene for a decade now, and Happyfun Hideaway is a new kid on the block that mixes fun dance tunes with an artistic vibe.

***

We hope you've enjoyed this quick rundown of the best cities for gay clubbing.

Of course, there are many more amazing cities for single gay travelers and same-sex couples to have a good time, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. See you out there!

The Coolest Things to Do in London This Winter

Field Court, Gray's Inn
Field Court, Gray's Inn (photo: J D Mack)

My home city of London is a place that I love, but I try to be there in the summer months.

I enjoy the outdoor barbeques, drinking in the park, the lighter evenings, and the better spirits that the local people tend to be in.

But recently, I’ve also had a longing to be back in London for the winter.

Friends have messaged me about their epic Christmas and New Year's Eve plans, and how they are enjoying cozy Sundays in the pub eating a Sunday roast.

So, my advice to you is to get to London no matter what time of year, because it’s undoubtedly one of the coolest cities in the world.

And here are six of the coolest things that are happening in London Town this winter.

Table of Contents

  • Bump Rollerdisco @ The Southbank Centre
  • Jack and The Beanstalk @ Hackney Empire
  • Winterville @ Victoria Park
  • Skating @ Somerset House
  • Height of Winter at The Shard
  • wonder.land at National Theatre

Bump Rollerdisco @ The Southbank Centre

The Southbank Centre is one of the most celebrated cultural institutions in the capital, showcasing everything from spoken word nights to big orchestral performances.

This winter, part of the Southbank Centre is being transformed into a roller-disco so that you can bop along to pop songs, warm your hands in the indoors, and try out your best skating moves.

The fun lasts until January 17th, and it costs £10 to skate.

Jack and The Beanstalk @ Hackney Empire

Pantomimes are a strong Christmas tradition in the UK, and it just doesn’t feel like Christmas unless you have seen a production of Cinderella or Puss in Boots.

These camp performances feature men dressed up as women and lots of audience participation.

Kids typically have the most fun at these performance events, but the Hackney Empire’s annual production is always produced with both little ones and grown-ups in mind.

This year’s show is Jack and The Beanstalk, and it features two Olivier Award-winning performers – don’t miss it!

Image source.
"Twin Peaks/David Lynch themed dark cabaret" (photo: Martin SoulStealer)

Winterville @ Victoria Park

East London is where London’s hipsters come out to play, and this Christmas pop-up in the East End’s Victoria Park is 100% the hipster destination of the season.

The heart of all the action at Winterville is the Spiegeltent, which is playing host to a whole suite of fun and alternative Christmas events.

Beefy Tea is a gay bear cabaret event where all hairy and rotund gay men will be in heaven.

Christmas Massaoke is a karaoke event like you’ve never experienced before – karaoke with a live band but exclusively for Christmas tunes.

And then there is Ultimate Power – a club night dedicated to epic power ballads from the likes of Celine and Whitney. Winterville runs until December 23rd.

Skating @ Somerset House

One of the coolest things about the run-up to Christmas in London is that a tonne of makeshift ice rinks pop up all over the capital.

You can choose between ice rinks at the Natural History Museum, Spitalfields, and many other places – but my favorite is always at Somerset House.

Somerset House is a stunning London building that dates back to the 18th century, and it overlooks the River Thames.

Go ice skating and treat yourself to a steaming cup of mulled wine; you’ll feel totally immersed in British wintry bliss.

It costs from just £7.50 to skate, and the temporary rink is open until January 10th.

Height of Winter at The Shard

Even though the Shard only opened its doors a few years back, it is already one of the most iconic buildings in the capital and you can see it for miles around on the London skyline.

At the Level 72 Skydeck at The Shard, you can see to the far reaches of the city, and this winter a special festive experience is being hosted there.

The venue has teamed up with scientists so that every interaction, every flicker of lighting, and every sound evokes a romantic response.

Explore a huge snow globe, crystal-studded snow dunes and treat yourself to a decadent glass of mulled champagne. The experience lasts until January 31st.

The Shard on London's skyline. Image source.
The Shard on London's skyline (photo: Loco Steve)

wonder.land at National Theatre

Every now and then, a theatre event comes along that sparks the interest of regular theatergoers, hipsters, pop culture lovers, and tourists alike.

That event this season is wonder.land, a new musical based on the classic Alice in Wonderland story created by Blur frontman Damon Albarn.

In this version of the classic tale, the “other world” of the Looking Glass is the internet, and this production explores the real and the unreal in our online and offline lives.

The play incorporates stunning multimedia effects, and as you’d expect of a Damon Albarn production, the musical score is said to be incredible. Tickets cost from £15 and the show runs until March 2016.

Enjoy yourself in London this winter!

5 Homemade Toiletries That Will Save You Money

Toothbrush
A Bamboo toothbrush with homemade toothpaste

You’ve decided to take an extended backpacking trip abroad.

It makes sense that the next logical thing to do is to start monitoring your finances and dreaming up ways you can save yourself money in your day to day life.

There’s a whole manner of ways you can approach this. You can cut back on your movie dates or omit that morning cup of coffee from your life.

A less conventional option is to open the doors of your toiletries cupboard and take a look at what you’ve got sitting on the shelves there.

Many of the day to day items we use to keep our hygiene in order are probably, shock, horror - items we don’t need.

We’re often conned into buying vast amounts of unwanted products that we may use once or twice.

They then get thrown into the far corners of your bathroom cupboard, left for years to gather dust.

I have a particular vendetta against the “travel-size” toiletries items that you can purchase from chemists and pharmacies.

I found I’d end up re-buying them for any trip I made abroad, in most cases, forgetting that I would have a couple of small tubes of moisturizer laying around my bedroom from my last trip overseas.

I decided that it was time to start looking into making my own items to use around the house and while traveling.

They’re easy enough to package in small plastic jars, I know exactly what I’m putting on my skin for a change and as many of the ingredients are available to buy in bulk… I’m saving money in the long run.

Here are a few homemade toiletries that you can whip up in your kitchen, need very few ingredients and even less of your own spare time.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Toothpaste
  • 2. Toner
  • 3. Moisturizer
  • 4. Deodorant
  • 5. Make-Up Remover

1. Toothpaste

Toothpaste is an easy one to start with, as it contains only three key ingredients - baking soda and coconut oil, with peppermint oil for taste.

Make sure when buying peppermint oil that it is digestible, rather than essential oil.

  1. Grab a ½ cup of coconut oil and melt it slightly.
  2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda.
  3. Let around ten drops of peppermint oil trickle into the concoction.
  4. Mix, put it into a small jar and allow it to harden.

Use by scooping it onto the bristles of your toothbrush using the brush head or a teaspoon.

Rather than spending money on a plastic toothbrush that will spend an eternity sitting in a landfill somewhere, consider purchasing a toothbrush made out of bamboo instead.

They have the same lifespan as a regular toothbrush (up to three months). Every part of the toothbrush, apart from the bristles, is biodegradable.

Editor's Note: At home, consider trying a toothbrush sanitizer as it helps to kill bacteria and keep your brushes totally clean until the next use.

Apple Cider Vinegar
I consume Apple Cider Vinegar and use it on my face.

2. Toner

A simple recipe for the toner that I use is two parts filtered water, one part apple cider vinegar. Shake before applying it as you would any other toner… I.e., via a spray bottle or directly on your face.

For a better smelling option - try making your own rosewater toner, which can be done in under an hour.

Remember to patch test either concoction on your skin twenty-four hours before applying it directly to your face.

 

3. Moisturizer

If you’re like me, you’ll have skin that is continually crying out for moisturizer. I think I used to spend more money on this part of my beauty routine than any other.

Once again, the ingredients required are minimal - coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, and almond oil.

Combine ingredients in a bowl and mix - you’ll be ready to rumble in no time.

I was equally as excited to stumble upon a recipe for homemade lotion bars.

Such a neat and compact item would make a welcomed addition to any backpacker’s bag of toiletries when on the road.

4. Deodorant

There are slim pickings for natural deodorants out there that work.

For a long time, I had to choose between offending anyone in my immediate vicinity with body odor or putting the aluminum in conventional deodorants directly on my skin.

Yet, you guessed it… you can make your own, using three ingredients - coconut oil, baking soda, and Shea butter, with arrowroot and essential oils as optional extras.

Reusable cotton wipes
Reusable cotton wipes

5. Make-Up Remover

Jojoba oil. That’s it. Dab a bit on some reusable cotton rounds and use it as you would any other makeup remover.

Of course, you don’t have to go full hippy. Start slow - try making your toothpaste and see how you progress from there.

Swapping out even one store-bought item for a product you can make yourself will save you money and be much better in the long run for both your health and our wondrous planet.

Beating the Winter Blues: Simple Tips to Tackle Seasonal Affective Disorder

As the year draws to an end, the sun graces us less and less with its presence. The end of daylight savings tends to trigger seasonal affective disorder, otherwise known by the apt acronym of "SAD."

As the world darkens around us, SAD is a genuine threat that will affect scores of people across the Northern Hemisphere during the winter months in varying degrees of intensity.

Snow in downtown Reykjavik, Iceland.
Snow in downtown Reykjavik

For some, it leads to a debilitating depression that brings a need to seek professional help. For those unable to attend in-person sessions, online therapy with insurance coverage has become an accessible way to get professional help during these challenging months.

Others are affected in a much milder manner, left feeling listless, grumpy, and lacking energy. It's not nearly as bad, but it's upsetting nonetheless.

This disorder is triggered by a lack of sunlight in winter, which affects melatonin and serotonin levels in people's systems. These hormones control the part of our brain that presides over our appetite, mood, and sleep, otherwise known as our circadian rhythms.

Coming from a country that boasts around ten hours of daylight in the middle of winter, I was shocked by how much the lack of sunlight affected my system. I struggled to get out of bed every morning, didn't want to eat, and was generally quite down.

As this experience was new to me, I didn't know how to combat the symptoms of my "winter blues." Consequently, those few dark months were a struggle. However - we live, we learn. No winter blues for me this season. This is how I will fight it off.

Table of Contents

  • Tips for Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder
    • 1. Take Advantage of What Daylight You Do Have
    • 2. Exercise and Eat Well
    • 3. Write Down How You're Feeling
    • 4. Use a Dawn Simulating Alarm Clock
    • 5. Go on an Adventure
    • 6. Look for the Joy in the Winter Season

Tips for Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder

Journaling is one way to combat seasonal affective disorder (aka the winter blues).
Journalling is one way to combat subsyndromal SAD

1. Take Advantage of What Daylight You Do Have

One of the most obvious solutions could also be the most effective: get out in the daylight for a full 20 minutes. If you work throughout the day, take a break while it's still light and have lunch outside to help counter seasonal affective disorder.

Alternatively, go for a walk. Don't spend your days off mulling about the house - do all that is humanely possible to soak up as much Vitamin D as you can when you can.

2. Exercise and Eat Well

You would think that exercise is another no-brainer. Yet, I neglected to make it a priority last winter, and I know it had a massive impact on my general well-being.

Winter's the perfect time to execute an exercise plan as you hide your body in layers of clothes. Download an exercise app for home workouts or join a gym. If you time it right, you'll emerge from your cocoon of sweaters, coats, and scarves in six months as a beautiful, toned butterfly.

3. Write Down How You're Feeling

This has always worked well for me when I'm feeling down. If I can't verbalize my emotions, I write about them. I filled out a whole journal last winter, although I'm not entirely sure whether I should consider this an achievement! Regardless, it's cathartic, and I always feel much better after doing it.

4. Use a Dawn Simulating Alarm Clock

I haven't tried this, but I heard fantastic things from others. These alarm clocks wake you with a gradually brightening 30-minute "sunrise." It's supposed to regulate your sleep cycle, with you getting out of bed feeling refreshed. They feature a 30-minute "sunset" that works oppositely - lulling you to sleep.

Those with more severe SAD symptoms can use these on top of a lightbox, a clinically proven treatment for the disorder.

5. Go on an Adventure

Twelve Apostles
A winter trip to the Twelve Apostles in Australia

The prospect of travel always boosts my spirits. Ideally, you'd want to go somewhere warm. If this option isn't available, take a few days off to explore a nearby state, country, or even your backyard.

Is there something you've always wanted to see or do in your city? Now is the time to do it. Sling a backpack over your shoulder, get out there, and immerse yourself in the world.

See also: Reasons To Visit Australia in Winter

6. Look for the Joy in the Winter Season

Weather aside, there are a lot of positives to winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Cozy nights in with a good book, a thick blanket, and a steaming mug of hot chocolate. Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot cider in a pub or by an outdoor fire.

Winter clothes are so much preferable to any summer wardrobe. Imagine tromping around your house in big slippers (or Ugg boots, if you're an Aussie like me), flannelette pajamas, and the fluffiest dressing gowns.

Watching The Holiday and Bridget Jones's Diary on repeat. Snow, if you're lucky enough to live in an area where this happens. Christmas!

People tend to whine and moan about winter, but it's a special season. If winter truly isn't your thing - at the very least, it is only three months of the year. The days will get longer before you know it, daylight savings will return, and soon enough, another summer will be just around the corner.

Do I Really Need to Take Malaria Pills?

Do I need to take malaria pills? You're not alone. Every traveler asks this question along their journey. While I'm not a doctor (and you should always consult your doctor for medical advice), I hold a graduate degree in public health and often travel to malaria-infected countries.

Mosquito
Mosquito

Naturally, I always err on the side of caution regarding my health. Benjamin Franklin once said, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Understanding the disease is essential before deciding whether you need malaria pills.

Table of Contents

  • What is malaria?
  • What are the symptoms of malaria?
  • Where can I get malaria?
  • How do I prevent malaria?
  • My doctor told me to take a malaria pill. What kinds are there?
    • Chloroquine
    • Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil)
    • Doxycycline (Vibramycin)
    • Mefloquine (Lariam)
    • Primaquine
  • Where do I get malaria medication?

What is malaria?

Malaria is a common mosquito-borne disease found in primarily tropical regions worldwide. It can be severe and possibly fatal. A parasite commonly infects mosquitoes that feed on human blood.

People who get malaria become sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. The incubation time following a mosquito bite varies from seven to 30 days.

In typical malaria attacks, symptoms last six to ten hours and involve a cold stage (e.g., shivering, feeling cool), a hot stage (e.g., fever, vomiting), and a sweating stage (e.g., sweating, tiredness).

In rare cases of severe malaria, infections are complicated by serious organ failure or abnormalities in a person's blood or metabolism. If someone is experiencing signs of severe malaria, they should seek medical attention immediately.

What are the symptoms of malaria?

Most people experience the following symptoms, but it can vary per person:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Excessive sweating
  • Headaches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Body aches
  • Tiredness
Source
Map of malaria Prevalence in the World (Source)

Where can I get malaria?

Over 3.4 billion people live in regions at risk of malaria transmission. Most of the 106 countries and territories at risk are in Africa, India, and the tropical areas of Central and South America and Southeast Asia. Use the CDC Travelers' Health website to determine if you are traveling to a country at risk for malaria transmission.

How do I prevent malaria?

While you can't 100 percent prevent malaria, you can take precautions to reduce your chances through simple methods. Use insect repellent with DEET. The higher the DEET concentration, the longer the repellent will last.

Ninety-five percent DEET repellent will give 95 percent protection for up to 10 hours. Most people are fine with 10-30 percent, lasting between three to seven hours.

Use an insect net at night to keep the mosquitos and other bugs out. Wear long sleeves and pants in areas of high risk, like the deep jungle. Reduce your exposure at dawn and dusk when mosquitos are most active. Take a malaria pill.

My doctor told me to take a malaria pill. What kinds are there?

Pills
Pills

There are many types of antimalarial medications you can take. Your options will probably vary depending on where you live, but the list below contains the most commonly prescribed malaria pills.

Chloroquine

Chloroquine has been used for many years to help prevent malaria. It is taken the week before entering the risk area, weekly while there, and finally, four weeks after leaving the area. Chloroquine is often prescribed for travelers to rural parts of Mexico, Central America, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.

Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil)

Malarone is the newest antimalarial pill on the market. It is a combination of two antimalarial drugs: atovaquone and proguanil. The pill is taken the day before you arrive in the risk area, daily while you're there, and for seven days after you leave. The drug is relatively side effect-free but can be pricey depending on your health insurance plan.

Doxycycline (Vibramycin)

Doxycycline is a popular antibiotic that treats chloroquine-resistant falciparum malaria. It is taken the day before you arrive in the risk area, daily while you're there, and daily for four weeks after you leave. Common side effects include stomach ache, diarrhea, and light sensitivity. It is also pretty cheap.

Mefloquine (Lariam)

Mefloquine is one of the oldest chloroquine-resistant falciparum malaria pills developed during the Vietnam War. It is taken weekly starting the week before you arrive in the risk area and for four weeks after you leave the area.

However, travel doctors do not often prescribe Mefloquine because of its side effects. Side effects include dizziness, vivid dreams, and possibly seizures and psychosis.

Primaquine

Primaquine is not routinely given to travelers as it is used primarily to treat P. vivax or P. ovale malaria after a diagnosis. To take this drug, you must take a G6PD blood test to determine if you have enough G6PD levels to digest the drug. Primaquine is most commonly prescribed in areas where P. vivax malaria is more prevalent than falciparum malaria.

The CDC has a great comparison guide for each drug, but you should always consult your doctor before choosing the best medication for your needs. Choosing a malaria pill also depends on what country you're traveling to, as each country has a different strain of malaria. It can even vary per region of a country.

For example, Panama has two malarial regions. While most of Central America is in the Chloroquine-sensitive area, the area southeast of the Panama Canal is Chloroquine-resistant, meaning that Chloroquine will not work.

Where do I get malaria medication?

You can get malaria medication from your doctor at home. Most health insurance plans will cover doxycycline as a common antibiotic, but coverage for the remaining drugs depends on your insurance plan.

If you can't get medications at home, don't worry. You can buy malaria medications on the road from local pharmacies or doctors.

While many travelers have a laissez-faire view of malaria medication, it is essential to weigh your options. I'd rather take a few pills than spend my vacation in a hospital because I got malaria.

The Best Travel Headphones for Under $100

No matter what corner of the world you visit you can always take music with you. There’s no better way of relaxing on an airplane than enjoying your favorite music in peace.

Just because you’re traveling, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some good music on the go.

In fact, since you always want to maximize your money to spend it more on seeing the world, we’ve found the best travel headphones under $100, which should fit most budgets.

Below are the best value for money headphones that are perfect for traveling. Pick the right model for your needs, pack them in a pocket and go see the world.

Table of Contents

  • What To Look For In Travel Headphones?
    • Sound Isolation Or Noise Cancellation
    • Portability - Put Them In a Small Pocket
    • Convenience - Is It Worth Fitting Big, Bulky Headphones In Your Backpack?
    • Comfort - Headphones That Won't Irritate Your Ears After Long Hours
  • The Models Of Best Travel Headphones under $100
    • Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B
    • Shure SE215
    • Phiaton PS 210 BTNC
    • JBL E40BT Bluetooth
    • Koss PortaPro

What To Look For In Travel Headphones?

Apart from good sound quality, what other features come in handy for a world traveler?

Sound Isolation Or Noise Cancellation

When you’re stressed out and just want to enjoy some peace and quiet, good noise isolating or cancelling headphones come very useful.

To get rid of the annoying airplane engine buzz, get a pair of noise cancelling headphones, turn them on and almost “magically” all the buzzing noise will cease to exist.

Just keep in mind that ANC (active noise cancelling) headphones need a battery that you’ll have to keep charged.

This might be a deal breaker for some who travel without much electronics or in countries where charging such devices becomes a problem.

See the page with the best noise cancelling headphones reviewed, but note that most of them cost a small fortune.

On the other hand, noise isolating headphones make a great pair of traveling equipment. You don’t need a battery or special maintenance. Just put them on and enjoy your music without being bothered by noises around you.

Keep in mind, both types of headphones leak some noise in, so don’t expect perfect silence, especially if you are in an old, crowded bus.

Portability - Put Them In a Small Pocket

Size and the ability to pack them in a small pocket on your backpack are important for any headphones you intend to use in your travels.

Most headphones are simply too big and bulky to be comfortably used when you’re a global traveler. But thankfully you have other options.

One of them is to get small earbuds or in-ear headphones that are dramatically smaller in size while still give good sound quality. They tend to be cheaper and offer good noise isolation.

The only problem you might have with them is that they tend to become uncomfortable after long use. So if you intend to use them on a long plane flight, keep in mind you will probably need to make short breaks in between.

The other option is foldable headphones that you can make compact by folding the headband which will then fit into any decently sized pocket.

The big benefit of bigger ear cups is their comfort which is best of any type of headphones.

Convenience - Is It Worth Fitting Big, Bulky Headphones In Your Backpack?

If you intend to travel with minimal baggage and you will carry all your stuff around in one backpack, then probably big headphones don’t come into play for you.

Always think beforehand about the main use of your headphones. In case you just want something comfortable on your long plane flights and you’ll carry a lot of bags with you, you can easily get big headphones like Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B for maximum comfort.

Bluetooth headphones also need a charged battery. If you are traveling in more rural, underdeveloped countries, than Bluetooth headphones are a bad idea.

There won’t be a lot of chances to charge your headphones if you find yourself in the middle of rural sub-Saharan Africa. Empty Bluetooth headphones will just become useless deadweight.

Comfort - Headphones That Won't Irritate Your Ears After Long Hours

Comfort plays a big role. Since traveling means you will probably have to wait around a lot. If you are sitting on a bus driving across country to the new tourist attraction you need comfortable headphones.

If you tried traveling with bad headphones you probably already know how badly irritated ears feel like. Not fun at all.

Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B
Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B

The Models Of Best Travel Headphones under $100

Audio Technica ATH-ANC7B

For the best noise cancelling headphones under $100 Audio-Technica ATH-ANC7B are the absolute winners.

There are no headphones that offer similar value for the same price, sure you can get Bose QuietComfort 25, but those cost three times the price at $300.

The sound is balanced and clear which is great for every music genre as long as you’re not demanding strong bass. Because of rather flat response it’s easy to listen to them and because of their noise cancelling technology they’re perfect for all noisy environments, like airplanes, buses and the trains.

Noise cancelling requires one AAA battery which gives about 40 hours of playtime. This is very useful for travel, since you can get batteries in any convenience store and just buy them in bulk. No need to bother with charging.

The ear pads are quite big and nicely padded making the headphones very comfortable even for long transcontinental flights. Foldable design makes them easier to carry around and put in your backpack, though they are still quite big since they are on-ear headphones.

For all travelers who value quiet and want to enjoy their music in comfort, this noise cancelling model is a great choice.

Shure SE215
Shure SE215

Shure SE215

The popular Shure SE215 are one of the best earbuds on the market that you can get for under $100. With their great build quality and audiophile sound, they make for one of the best earbuds for travelers.

Sound quality is very high as is common with Shure models, all sound ranges are clear and detailed with bass being strong enough to make any song sound fun. If you enjoy rock, classical, dubstep or pop, these in-ears will sound great.

What makes Shure SE215 great for traveling is their small size and great durability. Because they are earbuds you can easily pack them in any small pocket so you can carry more of the other stuff you need on your adventures.

They have detachable cables that are easy to replace and together with strong, but lightweight plastics, make for one durable pair of earbuds. They come with a variety of ear tips to easily adjust to the size of your ears.

You can use these in literally all environments, they can even resist some humidity and sweat so you can take them to the hot Middle East or Asia without worrying about breaking them.

For the best all-rounder travel earbuds, these are the best choice you can make for less than $100.

Phiaton PS 210 BTNC
Phiaton PS 210 BTNC

Phiaton PS 210 BTNC

Phiaton is known for making great active noise cancelling headphones and the PS 210 BTNC model is one of them. If you’re looking for noise cancelling and Bluetooth earbuds, these are the best you can get for the price.

They offer good sound quality with effective noise cancellation and stable Bluetooth connection. All of this is hard to get in any other headphones for less than $100.

Noise cancelling might be a bit less effective than with Bose QuietComfort 20i, but they cost a lot less money.

Bluetooth connection works with any smartphone or Bluetooth MP3 and the battery gives up to 14 hours of playtime which is pretty decent.

As long as you have a place to charge them up these will be a great addition to your traveling equipment that you won’t go anywhere without.

In case you want to visit some of the remote and less developed countries where you might have a problem finding a power source, Bluetooth might not be the best choice.

All in all Phiaton PS 210 BTNC is one great piece of traveling equipment that’s compact enough to fit in the smallest backpack.

JBL E40BT Bluetooth
JBL E40BT Bluetooth

JBL E40BT Bluetooth

As Bluetooth, portable headphones JBL E40BT are one of the best choicest for travelers. With foldable on-ear design you can easily store them in a pocket without taking too much space.

The bass-heavy sound will be to the liking of all bassheads and if you enjoy music with strong bass these will perform amazingly well.

The good thing about these is their strong Bluetooth connection. You can easily put your smartphone on your pocket without the wireless connection breaking. This is a big problem with many other wireless headphones which is very frustrating for any regular user.

The battery is rechargeable and gives up to 16 hours of music, they aren’t noise cancelling or have particularly good noise isolation, but this is good for when you want to hear what is going on around you.

The on-ear design might not be as comfortable as over-ear, but still offers good comfort, just don’t expect to wear them for 10 hours without any irritation.

For great portable Bluetooth headphones with strong bass, don’t look any further than JBL E40BT unless you are willing to spend a small fortune.

Koss PortaPro
Koss PortaPro

Koss PortaPro

The last headphones on this list that are great for travelers are Koss PortaPro which offer unbeatable low price and great sound quality. Just by looking at them they don’t promise much, but once you put them on you will change your mind.

It’s true they look a bit outdated, but the sound and comfort more than make up for it.

PortaPro on-ear headphones are ultra-lightweight and because of that you barely feel them on your head. The ear cushions are very soft and offer great comfort even for long hours. You can easily enjoy them for the long bus rides or plane flights without getting your ears irritated.

Build quality isn’t top notch, but considering the price this is understandable. Their foldable design is very portable, perfect for packing them in a bag or carrying around in a bigger pocket.

The noise isolation isn’t particularly good and they also don’t feature any noise cancelling technology, but you can get them very loud with pretty much any music device. Take them hiking with you and enjoy clear and rich sound.

For less than $40 you will have a hard time finding better value for money headphones that are more suitable for traveling.

If you are looking for more information on headphones, visit Headphonesaddict.com where you can find reviews of models for all occasions.

________

This story was brought to you in partnership with Headphones Addict.

Best Places to Party in Mexico

People visit Mexico for a considerable number of reasons. It's an incredibly diverse country with landscapes ranging from oceans to mountains and everything in between.

You can feel a sense of history in Mexico's many ruins, and you can feel the buzz of the country's contemporary culture at the many modern art museums in Mexico City.

But Mexico is also a remarkable country for people who love to party.

If the highlight of your week is your Friday and Saturday night out, make sure you check out these best places to party in Mexico.

Partying people in Mexico
Party time (photo: Circuito Fora do Eixo)

Table of Contents

  • Guadalajara
  • Mexico City
  • Tijuana
  • Playa del Carmen
  • Puebla

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico and often gets overlooked by tourists for more popular nearby places like Puerto Vallarta and Guanajuato.

But Guadalajara is a city that is well worth visiting, not least because of its epic party scene.

Guadalajara has earned its place on Mexico's party map because its student population loves to dance through the night and its substantial gay community.

When I first visited Guadalajara a couple of years back, I was blown away by the vibrancy of the gay scene there.

Head to Calle Prisciliano Sánchez, and you won't fail to notice the strip of gay bars and clubs along the road.

There is even a gay taco stand (!) called Tacos Gay for when you need after-club munchies.

Mexico City

In my opinion, Mexico City is one of the greatest capital cities in the world.

If you want incredible street food, you've got it. If you want countless museums, they are everywhere. And if you want to party non-stop, you can do that too.

Mexico City, or DF as it is known to the locals, is like a series of villages sitting next to each other, and each one has its own culture.

If you want fun pop music and cheap drinks on the gay scene, make your way to the Zona Rosa. If you fancy a sophisticated cocktail bar, you need to be in the swanky Condesa neighborhood.

And if you want to hang out with the hipsters of DF at trendy warehouse parties, make your way to the neighborhood of La Condesa and San Rafael.

See also: Best Restaurants in Mexico City

A tequila bar is always a good way to party in Mexico!
Tequila bar (photo: Henry Zbyszynski)

Tijuana

If you are based in the States and want to make a quick road trip to Mexico, Tijuana is the place for you as it's only a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Los Angeles.

Ten to fifteen years ago, TJ had a reputation as a dangerous city, but those days are pretty much behind this party city in the state of Baja, California.

If you want a feel for the real Tijuana, skip the tourist bars in the downtown area, where you'll be overcharged for your beers, and head to the local neighborhood of La Zona Norte.

This is where you will find the hole-in-the-wall dive bars, cheap tequila, and jukeboxes that only play Mexican classics. You'll have a night of drinks in Mexico you won't forget!

See also: Challenges of Being a Gay Traveler

Coco Bongo is a famous nightclub in Playa del Carmen and Cancun (photo: Dave Lee)
Outside the famous Coco Bongo nightclub (photo: Dave Lee)

Playa del Carmen

If there is a party place in Mexico that you've already heard about, it's probably Playa del Carmen in the south.

The Quintana Roo state plays host to Tulum, where people dive and snorkel, Cancun, where people stay on package holidays, and Playa del Carmen, where the party-lovers like you hang out!

Playa del Carmen is in many respects like a home away from home - except the weather is better and the beer is cheaper.

You will find lots of other travelers and tourists, and you will even be able to pay in American dollars in many places, including clubs and bars.

If you are staying in a hostel, take advantage of their nights out as they can save you a lot of money on cover charges, and they will often organize things like free shots to make sure you have a great night.

And if you are serious about partying, be sure to find yourself in Playa during Easter week as this is the city's busiest time of year; the clubs are full, and the parties spill out onto the beaches 24 hours a day.

Travel Tip: Book your ground transportation from Cancun to Tulum online before you arrive.

Puebla
Puebla (photo: Dave Lee)

Puebla

This extremely catholic city that lies two hours south of Mexico City might seem like an odd choice for a Mexican party destination, but look beyond the incredible number of churches in Puebla, and you'll find a party city that is full of life.

Puebla has become a fantastic place for nightlife in Mexico because of its large student population.

They tend to live in the trendy suburb of Cholula, which is where all the happening nightlife is too.

The word "nightlife" is a stretch because the students will often start drinking at 1 p.m. and carry on right throughout the day.

But it's not all clubbing until the early hours - you can also find jazz lounges, hole-in-the-wall cantinas, and late-night coffee bars here.

Enjoy your time in Mexico, and party hard!

Save Money on Travel With Dealspotr

Karma points for just signing up.

I like to think that I am a typical backpacker, always trying to find the best deal. After all, the more money I save, the longer I can stay on the road.

Even a $10 savings can be one night's accommodation somewhere as cheap as Thailand.

So when I was invited to review Dealspotr for Go Backpacking, I jumped at the chance to learn how to save more money.

Dealspotr is a new site that gives shoppers cashback in the form of Amazon gift cards just for sharing the great deals they find, including travel deals.

It claims it's the best community for finding and sharing deals, and unlike so many other cashback sites, no purchase is required.

It's built as a Twitter-like social media platform for bargain hunters, and you get compensated for participating in the community and sharing any deals that you find.

Signing Up

The home page is easy to use, and setting up an account is effortless.

You choose whether you want to sign in with your Facebook account or email.

For signing up, I received several hundred Karma points and two new badges for activating my account. Not bad for 30 seconds' work.

Each karma point earned is a step towards an Amazon gift card. For example, I needed 1,000 karma points to get my $5 gift card reward.

The right-hand box on the home page has suggestions for "a few things you can do to be awesome."

I really like the conversational tone as it sounds friendly and made me smile when reading it.

The "ways to be awesome" are incentives to earn more karma points such as:

  • Follow at least 20 stores.
  • Follow 10 people.
  • Post your first deal.
  • Upvote five good deals.
  • Comment on a deal.
  • Add a profile image & a bio.

Following a store means that the store will appear in your recommended daily feed so that you can keep up to date with any store discounts and deals, whether online or in-store.

Hot Deals allowed me to choose coupons that you can either use in-store or online. I chose coupons for online deals with travel and events.

Save money on top travel sites
Save money on top travel sites

Saving Money When You're Traveling

There was a wide choice of coupons from familiar sites such as Travelocity, Fandango, and TripAdvisor. 

Car hire coupons were available from Enterprise, Avis, and Budget; airline coupons from the likes of Emirates, Delta, and Southwest; and hotels including Hilton, Westin Hotels & Resorts, and Hotels.com - a meta-search engine.

Clicking on the blue "Follow" button allowed me to add a company to my list of organizations that I'm following.

When I clicked on Booking.com, it showed me a list of savings for that particular website from 20% off to save on Miami Beach hotels.

All I had to do was click on the green "Activate" button to be sent directly to the page and the deals.

I especially like this section, which is perfect for saving money when you're already on the road and traveling.

Before going on a trip, it's also a good way to save money on products such as shoes.

In the option for in-store, there was a deal for "Women's clearance items: up to 80% off at Nordstrom Rack."

I could then click directly on the website for Nordstrom Rack and check out the boots and clothing, which had significant savings, such as a fringe trim boot reduced from $79.00 to $31.60 - a 60% savings.

Just clicking on Hot Deals showed me dozens of offers to choose from.

There were discounts on books such as Paper Towns by John Green for $12.62 and 15% off a wireless mouse.

Grab a bargain at a high street store
Grab a bargain at a high street store

Target appeared to have the best offers, especially the one for $10 off any purchase of $20 - great savings!

The site gives you promo codes, and free shipping offers too.

The "Verify and Earn" function helps the Dealspotr community by testing, verifying, and recommending each day's best deals.

You can earn bonus Karma points for spotting winning deals and also by flagging bad ones.

One way of earning extra karma points is to "Post a New Deal" by pressing the blue button on the right-hand side.

This is a way of adding a new deal if you see it in a store or on a store's website.

You can link directly to the deal and describe the discount so that others can also benefit from the deal.

This brings you even closer to an Amazon gift card.  

My Conclusion

I like the concept, and I think this is a great website if you are looking for things to buy before you travel and take with you, such as footwear, clothes, items from Target, etc.

It's also ideal when you're on the road for discounts on flights and hotels when planning the next stage of your journey.

It's easy to use, and I will certainly be staying logged in and claiming as many bargains as I can.

__________

This story was brought to you in partnership with Dealspotr; all opinions are of the author.

5 Reasons to Add Newcastle, Australia to Your Itinerary

Nobbys Lighthouse
The Lighthouse at Nobbys Beach

Two hours north of Sydney lies a smallish coastal city called Newcastle. In 2011, many people across the country and worldwide were surprised by its inclusion on Lonely Planet's top ten cities list.

All but the locals, of course.

So, what is it exactly that makes Newcastle, Australia stand out above any other smaller cities on the East Coast?

It has predominantly been used as a rest stop on the way to better-known places such as Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour.

However, you'd be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't allow a couple of days on your itinerary to properly explore this charming seaside city.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Soak up the Sun at the Local Beaches
  • 2. Ogle at the Biggest KFC in the Southern Hemisphere
  • 3. Immerse Yourself in a Thriving Art, Music and Food Scene
  • 4. Get a First-Hand Look at Australian Culture
  • 5. Learn a Little Something About Local History

1. Soak up the Sun at the Local Beaches

Australia boasts some of, if not the most beautiful beaches in the world in my opinion, which I'll admit is anything but humble.

There are six official beaches near the city, along with Stockton beach, which is accessible by ferry across Newcastle Harbour.

Two of the main beaches (Merewether and Newcastle Beach itself) feature ocean baths - where you can swim laps, or drift around to your heart's content.

The three local highlights are undoubtedly the Bogey Hole, Nobbys and Susan Gilmore Beach.

The Bogey Hole is a man-made pool that was cut out of ocean rocks by convicts in 1819, for the personal use of Lieutenant-Colonel James Thomas Morisset, the Commandant of Newcastle at the time.

It was named after the indigenous word "to bathe" and is frequented by locals all year round.

Susan Gilmore can only be accessed at low-tide by rounding the cliff face that borders the city and, as a result, draws smaller crowds than the other more popular beaches.

It has consequently developed a reputation as a nudist beach for liberal sunbathers.

As far as views go, you can't beat Nobbys Beach, which boasts both a lighthouse and a boardwalk that makes for a pleasant and popular place to take an afternoon stroll.

You may have already heard of Nobbys - it made international headlines in 2007. In a time when the area was suffering from horrific storms and flooding, a Japanese coal carrier known then as the Pasha Bulker was washed up onto the beach, to both the astonishment and consequent amusement of locals.

Pasha Bulker Sculpture
A relic of the Pasha Bulker - this sculpture is comprised of the carrier's rudder.

2. Ogle at the Biggest KFC in the Southern Hemisphere

There is a reason that this KFC is an attraction worth mentioning. This particular fast-food restaurant was built on the site of the Palais Royale.

Famous throughout the town, the Palais, which was built in the 1880s, went through many incarnations during its time - from a ballroom, then a dancehall and finally as a nightclub.

It was declared structurally unsound in 2007 after the storms mentioned above and was demolished the next year, to the disappointment of many locals.

More interestingly still, as the site was being prepared, archaeologists discovered 5,700 Aboriginal stone tools, which dated back some 6,500 years.

Unfortunately, a report detailing this area as one of "high to exceptional cultural and scientific significance" was not released until after construction of the KFC was completed.

So, revel in the chance to gaze upon and maybe even chow down a burger within an institution that sits on a little piece of Australian history, in more ways than one.

Boat
A boat pulling into the harbor

3. Immerse Yourself in a Thriving Art, Music and Food Scene

Newcastle is a town that is notorious for bouncing back.

It recovered from a damaging earthquake in 1989, an Australian-wide recession in the 1990s, the closure of the local steelworks (which was the primary source of Newcastle's economy) in 1999 and two rounds of devastating storms, in 2007 and 2015 respectively.

One of the more recent issues was the decline within the city CBD (Central Business District), after the opening of two massive shopping centers nearby. For some years, the city center stood empty. Businesses were closing up shop and buildings rotting away due to disuse and weather damage.

Then, in stepped an organization known as Renew Newcastle, whose purpose was to find short-term uses for empty buildings in the CBD.

Their aim was to source "artists, cultural projects and community groups to use and maintain these buildings until they become commercially viable or are redeveloped."

For a small amount of pay, small businesses and those seeking community spaces could rent out and repurpose these buildings that were otherwise standing empty.

As people began to once again populate the CBD, life was breathed back into the area.

All over town, there are new restaurants, cafes, clubs, speakeasy's, and music venues opening every week.

Newcastle CBD continues to grow in popularity, making it the hustling hub it once was and deserves to be.

4. Get a First-Hand Look at Australian Culture

Sydney and Melbourne are well worth a visit, but these are, after all, massive, sprawling, multicultural cities.

Although they are wonderful and, I would never hear or tolerate a bad word against them... it's hard to get a feel for the "real" side of Australia if you limit yourself solely to either or both of these cities.

There are many facets of Australian culture, as it is, of course, a rather large country with a diverse landscape.

You'll find cities and towns all over - from the coast to inland, the tropics, dead center and the most northern and southern regions of the continent.

The capital of Western Australia, Perth, has the fourth biggest population in the country, despite being the most remote city in the world.

We also absolutely cannot forget those living out their lives in the Indigenous communities in the outback.

However, the majority of the population is concentrated along the East Coast.

A visit to Newcastle will provide you with an example of how most ordinary, everyday Australians live, without having to venture too far from Sydney.

Anzac Memorial Walk
The Anzac Memorial Walk

5. Learn a Little Something About Local History

Few may know that Newcastle once had the largest tram network in Australia, rather than Melbourne.

The system was dismantled in 1950, yet Newcastle’s Famous Tram (on wheels) is still running around town, offering a one-hour guided tour of the city and its history to visitors.

On the 8th of June 1942, a Japanese submarine laid an attack upon Newcastle.

This was the only time the guns of the city's coastal defense base Fort Scratchley were fired.

The Fort was vacated by the Australian Army in the 1970s and is now a museum.

Visitors can take a paid guided tour or can explore the site above ground at no cost.

I recommend stretching your legs by journeying across the Anzac Memorial Walk, which was opened in 2015 to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli in Turkey during WWI.

It spans 450 meters and includes a 160-meter bridge.

At each end of the bridge are silhouettes of returned services personnel and the 3,859 family names of the men and women of the Hunter Region who served in the war.

Not to forget stunning views of nearby Bar Beach and the city to the west.

In summary, Newcastle is rad. If you have the opportunity to add it to your Australian itinerary... do it. You won't be disappointed.

5 Cheap and Healthy Meals You Can Cook Anywhere

Next to transportation and airfare, food and alcohol is most travelers' biggest budget item.

We all have to eat, and with so much fantastic food in the world, how can you not try everything?

Hostel kitchen
Hostel kitchen

In some regions, like Southeast Asia and Latin America, it is often cheaper to eat street food or at local restaurants.

In Australia and Western Europe eating every meal at a restaurant is a sure way to go broke.

While I always recommend trying the local fare in whatever country you're visiting, sometimes you must cook your meals to afford the bus ride to the next destination.

Many hostels, especially in more expensive countries, have kitchens to use during your stay.

Sometimes the kitchens aren't modern and lack the necessary tools to cook a gourmet meal, but you can do a lot with a few pots and pans.

Some of my favorite meals while traveling have been around the hostel dinner table with my fellow travelers.

Last November, I spent Thanksgiving in the Azores (Portugal).

On Thanksgiving eve, one of my roommates, who happened to be Canadian, decided to cook us all a delicious pasta dinner to celebrate the American holiday.

It was one of my favorite memories of the entire trip.

While cooking communal hostel meals is an excellent way to meet and connect with other travelers, it is also a perfect way to save money.

You don't have to be Julia Childs in the kitchen. You must know the basics, so you don't burn the hostel down.

Pasta is one of the easiest meals you can make in a hostel
Pasta is one of the easiest meals you can make in a hostel

Table of Contents

  • 1. Pasta
  • 2. Stir Fry
  • 3. Sandwiches
  • 4. Omelets
  • 5. Tacos

1. Pasta

Pasta is the main staple of any backpacker's diet. Not only is it cheap, but it is universally available.

It is also one of the easiest things to cook. You need to boil water and put the pasta in until it's thoroughly cooked. Just don't overcook angel hair pasta, as it turns into mush.

Throw the pasta in butter, cream sauce, or red sauce, and voilà - you have dinner! You can add some meat and vegetables if you want to get fancy.

Can't afford or find hamburger meat to make meatballs? Use pepperoni or sausage.

2. Stir Fry

Stir fry is another delicious backpacker staple that's slightly healthier than the rest.

Head to the local market to pick up some fresh local vegetables and your choice of meat (if you eat meat), and on your way home to the hostel, stop at the store and buy a bag of rice.

While boiling a big batch of rice on the stovetop, you can fry up your meat and vegetables in a frying pan.

Add some sauces or spices, and you'll have an excellent, well-rounded dinner in no time. Share with your friends or store it for tomorrow's dinner.

3. Sandwiches

Sandwiches are an old on-the-go lunch choice for extended days exploring a new city.

Sandwich ingredients are easy to find in most countries and can save you some dough in more expensive countries.

Just buy some bread, cheese, and cured meat, and you'll have a delicious and budget-friendly meal. Unfortunately, cheese can be hard to find in some Asian countries.

Staying in for the night? Grilling a Panini or toasting a sandwich makes a boring old cold sandwich something fun and delicious.

I also love good old fashion grilled cheese. Nothing says home like a bit of comfort food.

Omelets are not only healthy and delicious, but super easy to make
Omelets are not only healthy and delicious but super easy to make

4. Omelets

While omelets are a great breakfast food, they are delicious and filling any time of the day.

Eggs are easy to come by in most countries and are an excellent source of protein. Head to the closest market and buy some local vegetables to add flavor.

Omelets are super easy to make. Crack some eggs in a bowl, mix them up, and pour into a frying pan; add some cheese and chopped-up veggies, like onion, peppers, and tomatoes, and you've got yourself a simple healthy meal.

Add some finely chopped meat like ham or bacon if you're a carnivore.

If your omelet folding skills are subpar, don't worry. Just turn the eggs into scrambled eggs.

Beef tacos - Yum!
Beef tacos - Yum!

5. Tacos

Tacos are a staple of Latin American cuisine and are utterly delicious.

You can get tortillas throughout Central and South America and other parts of the world. If you can't find tortillas, you can make a taco salad. Trust me. It's just as yummy!

Tacos can be made with just about any meat or meat substitute you can find in your local market.

While ground beef is popular in North America, chicken, pork, and fish are authentic taco meats in Mexico.

Once you've chosen your meat, fry it in a pan with spices like chili powder and cumin.

Black or pinto beans are an excellent vegetarian alternative, or you can add the beans to the meat for a more flavorful bite.

Once everything is cooked, place it on the tortilla, top it off with some lettuce, tomatoes, salsa, and cheese, and you're good to go.

Cooking dinner at your hostel shouldn't be a scary experience. It's a great way to save money, make friends, and improve your culinary skills.

And who knows, maybe by the end of your stay, you'll be the next Julia Childs. Paris anyone?

As a bonus, many of these meals can also be cooked around the campfire if you have the proper equipment. Bon appetit!

The World's Best Places to Sing Karaoke

There is very little that I love more in life than heading to a bar on karaoke night.

The thing that I love about karaoke most of all is what a leveler it is.

We have so much pressure on us all the time to be "perfect" and "productive" - and there are very few times in life when we can celebrate our failures, like not being able to sing a note of a Whitney song in tune!

If you love karaoke just as much as I do, make sure you get yourself to these six cities - the best places for karaoke in the world.

Karaoke in Tokyo
Karaoke in Tokyo (photo: Stefan)

Table of Contents

  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Berlin, Germany
  • London, England
  • Los Angeles, United States
  • Bangkok, Thailand
  • Toronto, Canada

Tokyo, Japan

If you are serious about karaoke, you need to get yourself to the place where it all started - Japan.

There is some dispute over where exactly in Japan originates, but Tokyo is certainly an A* spot for all karaoke lovers.

On the weekends, groups of Japanese friends love to hire a karaoke booth and sing to their hearts' content - but choose your karaoke bar carefully because you could end up trying to work your way through a catalog of Japanese tracks!

Head to the Shibuya area and bars on the main streets should have the popular English tracks (hello Celine Dion!) that you know and love.

Singin' like she means it at Bearpit Karaoke. Image source.
Singin' like she means it at Bearpit Karaoke (photo: sfreimark)

Berlin, Germany

If you are feeling brave, you can sing in front of thousands of people in an outdoor pit in Berlin during the summer months.

This takes those karaoke nerves to a whole new level, but it's an experience that is hard to replicate anywhere else in the world. This is your chance to be a rock star for a day!

Bearpit Karaoke takes place every Sunday during the summer months, and it attracts all kinds of people - male, female, young, old, tuneful, and tuneless!

There is also a flea market in the park on a Sunday, so you can reward yourself with some retail therapy after you have sung your heart out in front of thousands.

London, England

My home city of London is an awesome place for karaoke too, and what I love about it most of all is that it's more centered on karaoke nights in pubs and bars than it is on hiring a booth and just singing in front of your friends.

If you are going to sing a Mariah song at the top of your lungs, you may as well test yourself by going balls to the wall and singing it in front of perfect strangers!

Bunga Bunga in Battersea hosts an awesome karaoke night on Wednesday evenings, and you should also test your rhyming abilities at The Social's extremely popular Hip Hop Karaoke night.

Los Angeles, United States

Los Angeles karaoke culture is on the opposite end of the spectrum to London's.

Yeh, you still get drunkards taking liberties with the melodies of Bon Jovi classics, but there are also a lot of good singers too.

This is a city that is full of aspiring showbiz types, so you might have to deal with people treating like their moment with the microphone like an audition for a gig.

My advice is to make it out to West Hollywood and visit the gay bars for their karaoke nights.

They are often hosted by drag queens, and are, therefore, ridiculous amounts of fun.

Fubar on a Tuesday night is recommended - cheap drinks to give you some Dutch courage!

Bangkok, Thailand

When I was traveling around Southeast Asia, I would notice karaoke bars everywhere, and I had more than a couple of tipsy nights belting out Spice Girls numbers.

One city that stood out for me as being particularly karaoke-loving was Thailand's capital, Bangkok.

Again, you need to be careful that you don't chance upon a bar that has an exclusively Thai catalog of songs, but if you stick to the expat neighborhoods such as Lad Prao and Sukhumvit you should be just fine.

WoodBall in the Sukhumvit area is a recommended place for getting up on stage and showing the crowd what you've got.

Karaoke night! Image source.
Karaoke night (photo: Connie Ma)

Toronto, Canada

Toronto is one of the greatest hipster cities in the world, but everyone lets go of any cool persona they have at the huge number of karaoke bars all over the city.

You can take all of your international friends you have made on the road to Twister Karaoke because they have tracks in nine different languages.

The whole of Koreatown in Toronto is worth perusing for its swatches of private karaoke booths too.

Let me know what your favorite Karaoke song is in the comments below!

Mexican Safari: A Close Encounter of the Jaguar Kind

Jaguar at Zoofari (photo: Jonathan Martínez-Ortega)
Jaguar at Zoofari (photo: Jonathan Martínez-Ortega)

There is one adrenaline-pumping experience greater than jumping from a plane and just as serene as floating in a hot air balloon as the sun rises. That extraordinary high that comes from a close encounter with jaguars.

Jaguars are powerful and unpredictable animals. As Latin America's largest cats, they're built with broad heads, powerful chests, and short but strong legs.

Would it be realistic to expect these animals would act other than nature intended, no matter how well caretakers have looked after them?

I am well aware of the inherent controversy surrounding the exploitation of exotic animals with controversial examples like Seaworld and Thailand's Tiger Temple covered on blogs and in major media outlets.

However, Margarita Salgado Miranda and the Zoofari team carefully explained the entire caretaking process, and I feel comfortable with their explanations and methods.

Anyone on the fence about Zoofari or doubting their practices can direct their specific questions to Margarita Salgado Miranda.

Table of Contents

  • The Anticipation
  • Learning about the Jaguars
  • Why the Obsession?
  • My Experience with the Jaguars
  • How to Visit Zoofari
  • More Morelos Travel Ideas

The Anticipation

I have always kept the idea of hanging out with something like a tiger, lion, elephant, or jaguar in the back of my mind for sometime later in my life.

What possible scenario would I realistically expect to be given one-on-one time with a big jaguar?

I am an opportunistic adrenaline junkie.

I don't go out of my way to jump off bridges, trek through high altitude mountain ranges, or even raft through whitewater rapids.

These "bucket list" opportunities present themselves through the perks of my job and my usual travels.

Both my imagination and lack of real knowledge about animals led me to believe that my experience with a pair of rosette striped baby jaguar cubs and a couple of adults would be even more thrilling bungee jumping or skydiving.

Zoofari Jaguars
Rolling around with a couple of jaguars

Learning about the Jaguars

My guide for the afternoon at Zoofari, Margarita Salgado Miranda of Excursiones Margarita.com, explained that jaguars are hunters.

They use their extraordinary speed, stealth, and eyesight (six times better than humans at night) to launch a single bite into anything from alligators and fish to monkeys and deer.

Their jaws, tougher than any other cat species, give them another advantage as they can bite through bones, which are often part of a jaguar's diet in a zoo.

"Zoofari visitors can't believe that we can care for animals as aggressive as jaguars in a zoo-safari setting. But we understand and know that the jaguars and other animals we care for are dignified creatures that have become a part of our family.

That's why when staff or nature enthusiasts from Mexico and around the world visit us they all want to know the secrets of our caretaking and training methods.

The reality is that our success and wellbeing of the animals comes as a result of the patience and affection from our caregivers, because they have the joy of being able to communicate and interact with them in that special way.

Our park has become known as a role model for these reasons as we continue to promote environmental education through school visits, talks and overall awareness. "

-  Margarita Salgado Miranda of Zoofari and Excursiones Margarita

Although Margarita was just as excited to tell me about the other 129 species being cared for at Zoofari, I was far more interested in what I would consider the grand finale of this Mexican safari.

The precious time spent with the park's big cats; the jaguars.

Coincidently enough, I would be able to play around with the same menacing black jaguar shown in Mel Gibson's Apocalypto movie.

This jaguar has jet black fur because of a genetic mutation, while the other rosette spotted jaguars and cubs I played with could easily be mistaken for tigers.

Xochicalco
Ancient Xochicalco Mayan ruins

Why the Obsession?

The massive 250-pound jaguars are by far the largest cat in Latin America with their powerful and sleek movements that have earned them an important place in Mexican legends dating back to the pre-Columbian Aztec and Maya civilizations.

Earlier that day, I explored the less-visited UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mayan Xochicalco archaeological monuments with Rogelio of Tlacuache Adventures.

One of the monuments depicts a "snarling jaguar," according to historian Richard A. Diehl in his book, Mesoamerica After the Decline of Teotihuacan, A.D. 700-900, Parts 700-900. 

Why do the Mayans and others from Mesoamerica repeatedly depict the jaguar in their culture?

Maria del Carmen Valverde Valdes from the Mesoamerican Studies Department of the Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) explains that jaguars "are like the symbols that intertwine and relate the man with the earth, the underworld, fertility, and life.”

Jaguar cub
Jaguar cub

My Experience with the Jaguars

Armed with better knowledge of the significance of jaguars from pre-Columbian to present-day Mexico, I ended this unique safari up close with the live jaguars.

It was an extraordinary, adventurous sensation to have an enormously powerful cat's lethal jaws touching my neck and torso.

The spotted jaguar licking my leg felt like dripping wet sandpaper rubbing against my exposed skin.

The aftermath of this slobbering was a few battle scrapes.

That's just one of the special moments I experienced when the caretaker presented two full-grown jaguars.

But what do you do when you don't know what to do? I felt both shy and beyond excited to do something.

Hug the jaguar? Pet the jaguar? Selfies beside the jaguar? Or stare the jaguar down from a distance?

Jesus, the chief caretaker and practically "their father" brought the jaguars beside me and let me have at it. I walked toward them shyly at first, forcing myself a little closer to Fary and Boox, until I silently mumbled, **** it!

I kneeled closer and began stroking their fur as if they were gentle cats sitting atop a windowsill.

As it became clear that I felt more comfortable in Fary and Boox's presence, Jesus gave me the silent nod to take it a step further and hug them--later lying around with them and my other travel partners as the jaguars messed around with us.

The time to say goodbye to the big cats arrived sooner than I would have hoped.

After saying goodbye to the big cats, Jesus returned with a jaguar cub light enough to hold in my two hands as the cub flailed around in my arms.

The sensation of holding a squirming jaguar cub is a  precious moment.

One of my travel partners Yolanda of Amigo Trails and We Are One Travel explained afterward:

"The experience with the jaguars was really unique and the icing on the cake for the end of the Zoofari visit. It is a must experience really so be sure to set this up in advance so you can take part in it as advance reservations are required."

I practiced all of that and more as the jaguars wandered around the area with the caretaker following closely behind.

Zoofari Baby Jaguar
Zoofari baby jaguar

How to Visit Zoofari

Zoofari is open from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. 365 days per year. Located between Cuernavaca and Taxco in the state of Morelos, Zoofari can easily be visited on a day-trip from Mexico City just 80 miles or a few hours drive away.

The park was opened to the public in 1984 for everyone to experience personal interactions with the 1,300+ animals in an intimate and open setting.

The park is split into six different sections, ideally explored from a rental car, which provides the opportunity to feed or watch animals like giraffes, zebras, ostriches, antelopes, rhinos, and more. The jaguars can be found in the sixth section.

Address: KM. 55 Carretera Federal, Cuernavaca-Taxco, Amacuzac, Morelos
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +52 777 320 9794

More Morelos Travel Ideas

Travel in the Mexican state of Morelos is often overlooked and easily worth more than a day-trip from Mexico City.

These are other hidden places you won't easily find online as a foreigner traveling in Mexico and a solid handful of activities to extend your travels in the region.

You can easily do all of this independently, but if pressed for time, I can personally recommend Excursiones Margarita.

 Hacienda San Gabriel de las Palmas: A sugar plantation converted into one of Mexico's most exclusive hotels and restaurants.

Xochicalco: One of the least visited archaeological sites, complete with an underground observatory, pyramids, and more. It rivals Mexico's other most visited Mayan ruins, but it is mostly visited by Mexican tourists, and so no English guides are available on site.

Jardines de México: The largest set of botanical gardens in the world with nine different themed areas.

Lake Tequesquitengo: Buried in this lake are remains of an old village. But these days, it is best known for adventure activities and sports like a microlight aircraft flight, bungee jumping, hot air balloons, wakeboarding with a pulley system, diving, kayaking, and more.

_____

My safari experience in the Mexican state of Morelos was coordinated by English-speaking adventure tour operators Margarita Salgado Miranda of Excursiones Margarita.com and  Rogelio Teliz of Tlacuache Adventures. The experience was provided thanks to ATMEX, Morelos Secretary of Tourism, and Adventure Travel Trade Association. All opinions expressed above are my own.

Travel First Aid Kit: A Do It Yourself Guide

Packing - either you love it or hate it. As a Type A person, I love creating lists and checking them twice, but I'm not too fond of it when it comes to packing.

I'm the person who throws random items into her backpack five minutes before she leaves for the airport. Over the years, I've learned a thing or two about packing.

You never need as much as you think you do, and you probably don't need a down jacket in Costa Rica. One item that always goes into my backpack first is a small first aid kit.

Always pack a travel first aid kit in your backpack.
Backpack

Perhaps it's because I'm a former ski patroller and outdoor lover, or maybe I'm just over-prepared. Either way, I always recommend travelers bring a small first aid kit.

You might think I'm silly for telling you that you need a first aid kit, but after your first fall from the uneven cobblestone streets in Europe or your first Tomorrowland festival, you'll thank me later.

While you don't need a Costco-sized first aid kit or a surgical kit, there are a few essential items that every traveler should have in their travel first aid kit.

Prescription Medications

This is probably a no-brainer. If you take prescription medication, then this is number one on your packing list. This is especially important for items like insulin or EpiPens, as they can save your life in an emergency while on the road.

If you have diabetes or have a severe allergy, you should wear a medical alert bracelet or something that identifies your medical condition. It could save your life. For example, I'm allergic to amoxicillin and thus can't be given an antibiotic in the penicillin family.

When I travel, I wear my RoadID, which displays my name, emergency contact information, allergies, and the fact that I'm an organ donor. I started wearing it while training for triathlons, but I quickly realized RoadIDs are great for traveling too.

Over-the-Counter Medications

You don't need to bring bottle after bottle of meds. It just doesn't make sense. I'll buy travel-size containers of pain meds and put TUMS in little snack-size baggies.

For the most part, you can always buy over-the-counter medications in the country you're going to, so you don't need to take much. You need enough to tide you over for a few days if you get food poisoning at 2 a.m.

If you're traveling in a rural area for extended periods, I would suggest carrying a larger supply, as some medications are difficult to obtain in rural villages.

Items to include:

  • Advil (Ibuprofen)
  • Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
  • TUMS or Pepto-Bismol (Antacid)
  • Anti-itch Cream
  • Motion Sickness Pills
  • Valerian Root or Melatonin Pills

Shopping for over-the-counter medication in foreign countries can be challenging if you don't know the active ingredient in each brand-name medication.

Chances are you're not going to see Pepto-Bismol in the middle of the Amazon jungle. Brazil probably has its own brand.

Below is a list of common US-brand-name over-the-counter medications with their active ingredients:

  • Tylenol (Acetaminophen)
  • Bayer (Aspirin)
  • Advil or Motrin (Ibuprofen)
  • Aleve (Naproxen)
  • Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth subsalicylate)
  • TUMS (Calcium carbonate)

Wound Care

Let's face it. We all fall and cut ourselves at some point in life. Trying to find someone with a Band-Aid in a foreign country can be difficult.

If you're adventurous and plan to do some trekking during your travels, you might want to consider taking more items, but the basics should suffice for most travelers.

Items:

  • Band-Aids of varying sizes
  • Antiseptic wipes or ointment
  • Tweezers
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Gauze pads (or Maxi pads)*
  • Medical tape*
  • Instant ice pack*

(*) Items recommended for adventure travelers

Other Bonus Items

Moleskin - If you're doing a lot of trekking or walking, moleskin can save your feet. Blisters are no fun!

Water purification tablets - Iodine or other forms of water purification tablets are helpful to have on hand, especially if you're trekking or traveling in very rural areas. If you're mostly sticking to cities, you don't need to bother.

Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) - Travel doctors commonly prescribe Cipro for severe diarrhea. This is something you can generally get in any country, but it's nice to have on hand if you need it at 3 a.m. Most doctors will prescribe this for you when you go in for travel vaccinations. I carry it just in case, but have never needed it.

I had to use my travel first aid kit for the first time in Greece when a friend got whacked in the head by one of the cabin doors of our yacht.

You never know where you or someone could get injured. That's why it's also a good idea to get First Aid and CPR certification.

While it is always good to be prepared, it is also essential to know how to seek help in any country you visit. You can't simply call 911 and expect an ambulance to arrive.

Hopefully, you will never need it, but being prepared for the worst can save a life. And that is why my travel first aid kit is always the first item in my backpack.

Traveling With Allergies: Hay Fever Edition

Neti Pot
A Neti Pot and salt

Some people are allergic to gluten. Others must steer clear of peanuts for fear of going into anaphylactic shock.

I'm lucky. My allergies are tame compared to others, and they won't kill me (I hope).

Yet, they are debilitating in their own way, and they affect how I travel.

Years ago, after having problems breathing, I went to see an immunologist.

He declared me to be allergic to dust, pollen, and grass. All three of these things are, as you can imagine, basically inescapable in life.

How does this affect how I travel?

Depending on where I am (and interestingly enough, it's at its worse in my native country of Australia), I get sneezy, my throat swells, my glands ache, and I'm rendered utterly exhausted.

Some days I'm so severely affected by these symptoms that I can barely muster the energy to do anything.

It's frustrating - I hate wasting days on the road.

I've had operations on my sinus and have tried every conventional medicine under the sun.

Nothing worked, and I was told it was just something I would have to live with.

To hell with that, I say!

Over the years, I have trialed some less-conventional methods to keep my sinuses as clear as possible so that I can take full advantage of my time spent traveling.

I'm no health expert by any means.

However, these are some of the methods I use when traveling, and they may go a little way in helping you too.

Nettle
Nettle Leaf tea

1.Indulge in Hot Drinks (With an Added Extra)

There are reportedly many health benefits to the drinking of Apple Cider Vinegar.

A spoonful of ACV in a cup of hot water consumed morning and night can help to reduce symptoms of hay fever and allergies.

Of course, lugging around a glass bottle of AVC could prove to be a huge pain when traveling.

Take a smaller bottle or consider an alternative option.

If you're a tea-drinker, you might be interested in nettle tea.

Nettle Leaf is an all-round winner as far as antihistamines are concerned, and a cup a day may go some way towards taming seasonal allergies.

2. Use a Neti Pot

I've personally used varying versions of Neti Pots for years.

You boil water, fill the pot, and add a saline solution such as Himalayan or sea salt.

This is then used for flushing out your sinuses, which clears the passages of dirt, toxins, and excess mucus.

Although it sounds disgusting, I've rarely caught colds, and I've not had the flu since I started using a Neti Pot.

There too, is a noticeable difference to the strength of my allergies.

A word of advice - don't do any yoga straight after nasal cleansing - stick to activities that will keep you sitting/standing upright.

Lavender
Lavender Essential Oil

3. Essential Oils - As Essential as the Name Suggests

It's easy enough to carry around a small container of essential oil when traveling, which will help soothe allergic symptoms when they strike you.

Lavender Essential Oil is a natural antihistamine. At home, a couple of drops in a bath can do wonders for sinus headaches or to induce sleep.

On the road, rub a few drops between your hands and inhale deeply through your nostrils.

As Lavender is a mild EO, you should be able to use it topically (meaning apply it to your skin).

Rubbing a dab onto your chest or head can be useful in providing allergy relief.

Peppermint is another go-to EO that can help treat allergic reactions.

It has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to help improve breathing. One drop to the base of your neck or a drop of diluted oil around your nostrils can help soothe inflammation.

Don't forget to patch test oils and creams on a small area of skin 24 hours before applying, especially if yours is particularly sensitive.

Another option is to dilute the EO's with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil.

4. Don't Waste Tissues, Carry a Handkerchief

No matter what you do, you're probably going to find that there are days when your nose won't stop streaming, or you'll suffer continually from surprise sneeze attacks.

I find tissues to be hugely wasteful and disgusting to carry around. I deal with this by having a hanky (handkerchief) on me, wherever I go.

My favorites are those designed and made by Canadian company TSHU.

Traveling with allergies can be utterly debilitating - trust me, I understand.

However, these methods will hopefully go a little way towards easing your symptoms while you're on the road.

The Beginner's Guide to Day of the Dead

Parade
Parade Image source.

For millions of people around the world, this time of year means one thing and one thing only - Halloween.

But for the Mexican population, this time of year plays host to a different celebration - Dia de Los Muertos or Day of the Dead.

What is Day of the Dead Exactly?

Day of the Dead happens across two days - November 1st and 2nd - a little confusing.

And this festival is the one time of the year when Mexican people remember the deaths of their family members, friends, and loved ones, celebrate their lives, and help them on their spiritual journey in the afterlife.

Mexican people believe that this is a time when the souls of the deceased return to their loved ones - so it is a cause for celebration and not despair.

The celebrations date way back to the Aztec period when there was a day for celebrating the lives of dead children and a separate day for commemorating the lives of dead older people.

Then, when the Spanish came along and introduced Catholic holidays, the traditional indigenous celebrations merged with All Saints Day and All Souls Day on November 1st and November 2nd to create the Day of the Dead celebrations that can be found in Mexico today.

Skull candy
Skull candy Image source

Why Should You Travel to Mexico for the Day of the Dead?

Visiting a country during a time of local celebration is always a win.

Mexico has plenty of celebrations to choose from.

There is Guelaguetza, the month-long celebration of indigenous cultures in Oaxaca during July, there is the Cervantino arts festival in picturesque Guanajuato, and the country goes crazy for Semana Santa too.

But, in my opinion, the most fun celebration of them all (yes, fun even though it's a national holiday centered around the concept of death) is Day of the Dead.

These are a few of the things that you can expect from visiting Mexico around Day of the Dead.

Skull Candies

Walk around any Mexican city or town during this time, and you'll see street sellers offering little sugar skulls with intricate colorwork.

These cute little candies came about because Mexico has always had vast reserves of sugar, but the people haven't always been able to afford expensive decorations.

And so, sugar art started to play a big part in Mexican festivals from the 18th century.

Head into churches around Day of the Dead, and you'll find gigantic and ornately decorated sugar skulls.

Cemetery Visits

I love a cemetery, but like. I encourage the feeling of being connected to my mortality, and you'll never feel that with greater force than at a party in a graveyard during Day of the Dead.

And while the idea of visiting a cemetery in the West is something solemn, on Day of the Dead, it's all part of the celebration.

The cemeteries are especially spectacular at night when they are lit up with hundreds and hundreds of burning candles.

Street Parades

Mexico is a country that loves a parade, and Day of the Dead is no exception.

The Day of the Dead procession is called a comparsa, and consist of people walking and dancing in time to live music, all while displaying incredible costumes.

You'll find many people painting skulls on their faces in the style of the ornate sugar skull candies.

In my opinion, Oaxaca is the best place in the country for the most vibrant celebrations, but anywhere from Mexico City down will host parties and parades, and there will be lots of fun to be had.

If you do make it to Oaxaca, don't limit yourself to the city - head to neighboring small towns and villages like Etla and Ocotlan for a vibrant local experience.

Day of the Dead Elsewhere

The tradition of Day of the Dead has found its way to many nearby countries.

Last year, I was in Guatemala for Day of the Dead, and while it wasn't quite the epic celebration that it would have been in Oaxaca, it was still a celebration for sure.

And as Western countries begin to learn more and more about Day of the Dead, they want a little slice of the action as well.

The London restaurant, Wahaca, is throwing an epic 12-hour Day of the Dead celebration in the heart of the British capital, and parties, live music events, and street parades can be found all over the States.

Wherever you are, make sure that you celebrate!

Why London is the Perfect City for First-Time Expats

You've done some thinking and concluded that it is about time you moved overseas. Great news. Your life will change irrevocably as a result.

The next item on the agenda is - exactly where should you move to?

Millenium Bridge
Millennium Bridge with the Shard in the background

You have three options. Spin a globe, pack up, and move to wherever your finger lands.

Take a stroll off the beaten track. Or make a more calculated plan to follow in the footsteps of many adventurers before you to a well-established destination, such as England's capital.

Here are some reasons why London is the perfect city for first-time expats.

Table of Contents

  • 1. London is a Road that Has Been Walked Down Many Times Before
  • 2. It's the Very Definition of a Multi-Cultural City
  • 3. It's the Center of the Modern World
  • 4. London is Ideal for Tertiary Education
  • 5. There is an Abundance of Jobs
  • 6. There's Always Something Going On in London

1. London is a Road that Has Been Walked Down Many Times Before

Although Robert Frost's famous poem The Road Not Taken may implore you to do just as the poet suggests and take the road less traveled, I believe there is some merit in choosing to journey down a well-trodden path - on occasion.

Getting settled into a new country takes time and effort, more than you may initially realize. It's not as simple as buying a plane ticket and packing your bags.

You'll need to find housing, secure a job, open a bank account, organize health insurance... The list goes on and on.

This can be difficult to deal with if you're moving to a country that is fresh on the expat scene (like Colombia, for example).

As so many others have moved to London in the past, endless amounts of information are available on the internet.

You can research how to secure a visa, find an agency to help you with work, and get tips on dealing with British bureaucracy.

Chances are you'll even have an acquaintance within your social circle who will have either lived/been living there or know another person who is.

Having someone you can direct questions to before and on arrival is always good.

Little Green Street
Little Green Street in Kentish Town

2. It's the Very Definition of a Multi-Cultural City

When I'm walking through London, I like to go sans headphones. I'm always amazed by the cacophony of languages and accents I hear as I pass the hoards of people making their way down the busy street.

London is home to an inconceivable number of people hailing from different backgrounds and cultures - thrown together and trying to survive in this bustling metropolis.

The upside? There's always some cultural event, and you can eat from countries worldwide without leaving the city's borders.

There are so many Australians here that I sometimes feel like I never left my country. If I'm ever homesick, I know all I have to do is take the Tube to Clapham, where I'll be surrounded by my kind once more!

3. It's the Center of the Modern World

Living in London truly feels like you've hit the country jackpot. There are not one, not three, but five airports and cheap flights to almost any destination you could think of all year round.

Europe is accessible from a short flight/bus or train ride over the channel, North America lies across the pond, Africa is a few hours away, and you can step foot in the Middle East after a mere seven hours on a plane.

If you've moved overseas intending to travel, this is definitely the city you want to be in.

4. London is Ideal for Tertiary Education

Many come to London to build upon their educational prospects (indeed, it is one of the easiest ways to secure a visa).

England's universities regularly make the top ten lists for educational institutions worldwide, and some of the best are in London - such as City University, Kings College, and UCL.

The world-renowned universities of Cambridge and Oxford are a little over an hour's car drive away from the capital.

5. There is an Abundance of Jobs

The question of work is often an iffy one for many would-be expats. Some are lucky enough to get transferred overseas by their workplaces - others risk quitting their jobs, hoping they'll fall on their feet.

Luckily, London is a place where work of any and every kind is always available. You can have a career break to pull beers, wait tables, or au pair.

However, if you want to continue working in your field, you'll likely pick up where you left off in your home country.

Related: How to Make Friends in a New Country

Underground
Two of London's most famous icons

6. There's Always Something Going On in London

While travel is a huge drawcard, one of the joys of living in a place like London is exploring the city.

The city is massive - 8.5 million people live here, a number that is steadily growing. As a result, there is always some festival or event going on.

Markets, rooftop, outdoor cinemas, ice-skating, gigs, international food festivals, morning raves, graffiti courses… You could live your whole life in this city and never run out of things to do.

Ultimately, it's best to go where your heart tells you to go. If it is indeed London calling, I implore you to answer.

5 Easy Tips to Help You Stay Healthy in Hostels

Hostel bunk beds
Remember that earplugs and an eye mask can be your best friend

If you’re about to embark on your first round-the-world trip or perhaps you’ve backpacked throughout Europe already, chances are you will or have stayed in a hostel.

Hostels around the world vary from super cheap and dirty in Latin America to spotless and minimalistic in Scandinavia.

No matter what the conditions are like, hostels are a great way to meet new friends, sleep off a massive hangover, or just a great way to save some money for more important things like beer and street food.

Just watch out because you might pick up something other than new friends or possibly a love interest while staying in hostels.

Hostels are often large and see a constant stream of people moving in and out of the beds in a short amount of time. As a result, hostels can be germ factories and no one wants to be sick while traveling.

Let’s look at a few easy things that you can do to help you stay healthy while staying in hostels along your journey around the world.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Sleep
  • 2. Wash Your Hands
  • 3. Drink Lots of Water
  • 4. Check For Bug Beds
  • 5. Practice Safe Sex

1. Sleep

I know what you’re thinking. Who sleeps in a hostel?

However, sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health. While you’re sleeping your body is healing and repairing your heart and blood vessels and your brain is forming new pathways to help you learn and remember information.

However, sleeping in a 12-person dorm room is not easy. People wander in drunk at all hours, they snore, and they may even bring a new “friend” home for some late night fun.

Invest in a good pair of earplugs and eye mask and consider taking a nap when all your roommates are out for the day.

Still can’t get a good night of sleep? Herbal supplements like valerian root or melatonin can really help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep throughout the night.

2. Wash Your Hands

You probably learned this in preschool, but washing your hands is one of the best disease prevention methods you can do.

Germs are everywhere and when you’re in close quarters with people from every corner of the globe, it’s easy to come into contact with new strains of viruses and bacteria that your immune system has not been exposed to before.

Combine that with a lack of sleep and lots of partying and you’re bound to develop a few sniffles here and there. Bacteria can live everywhere, but common places to pick up germs include door handles, the kitchen, and bathrooms.

Always wash your hands and carry hand sanitizer, as some hostels will run out of soap.

drink water
You should drink half your bodyweight in ounces every day!

3. Drink Lots of Water

Stay hydrated. And that means with water and not beer. Your body is comprised primarily of water which means you need to stay hydrated to balance the water and electrolytes in your body that determines much of how your body systems function, including your nerves and muscles.

Many nutritionists recommend drinking half your body weight in ounces every day.

If you’re in a hot and humid country it’s especially important to stay hydrated with water throughout the day and night.

Your urine should be a pale or straw yellow. If your urine is a deep yellow, drink more water!

4. Check For Bug Beds

Bed bugs are a traveler’s worst nightmare! While you can’t predict where, if ever, you’ll find them, you can certainly take precautions against them.

Bed bugs are tiny, 6-legged flightless blood sucking insects that will definitely put a damper on your trip.

Bed bugs love to hide in little crevices and especially find mattresses a great place to live. They are nocturnal so don’t expect to see them during the daylight hours, but you’ll definitely meet them during the night.

One of the first things you should do when checking into your hostel is check your dorm bed for signs of bed bugs.

Check along the mattress seams, behind headboards, along the baseboards and along wall junctions for signs of bed bugs. Look for dead bugs or their fecal spots, which look like little black spots.

Bed bugs love hitching rides in your bags so if you happen to discover bed bugs during your stay, make sure to wash everything in hot water and dry in a dryer if you have access to one.

5. Practice Safe Sex

Let’s face it. Along your travels, you might meet that special someone that you want to take home for the midnight tango. Remember to use protection. No one wants to go home early because of STDs or pregnancy. It’s not rocket science!

Hostels can be a frightening place filled germs, blood sucking mini-monsters, and lots of late nights with no sleep, but they can also be home to some of your greatest travel memories.

Just remember these five tips and you’ll be healthy and ready for your next great adventure.

Adrenaline Sports in Croatia

Skydiving in Croatia
Instructors soaring through the skies in Croatia

It may not be the first European destination that springs to mind, but the beautiful country of Croatia in Europe has plenty of activities to keep travelers entertained.

For starters, there are festivals, which are held every summer and are full of beach and boat party craziness. 

And for those who prefer more of an adrenalin rush, there are plenty of adventure sports too.

Skydiving

If skydiving is on your bucket list, how about skydiving in Croatia?

You can't get more freeing than throwing yourself out of a perfectly good plane, and there's more than one spot in the country to do it, including Hvar, Istria, and Zagreb.

Skydiving in Zadar is the most popular place in the country, and with such an amazing coastline, you can see why.

Once you've experienced the party island that is Hvar from the ground, soar over it and see it from above instead.

Tandem skydives start at $252 (€229) for one hour, and they're offered year-round.

Taking a tandem skydive means that you're strapped to an instructor, so there are no worries about forgetting to pull your ripcord.

Plus, the instructor goes through all the steps before you take off, so you'll know exactly what to expect.

However, skydiving is weather-dependent and can be canceled if there are high winds or rain.

Make sure you book this at the start of your trip to allow yourself enough time if it needs to be rescheduled.

Panoramic Flights

Jumping out of a plane isn't the only sport you can do here.

As well as paragliding, there are panoramic flights if you want to experience the views from inside a plane and not outside of one. A scenic flight starts at $98 (€89) for an hour.

If you don't mind being thrown around, you can experience an acrobatic flight.

At $428 (€389), it may be out of your budget, but you can guarantee it'll be one of the wildest hours of your life.

More Adventure

Other fun things to do in Croatia include ATV'ing on the islands of Krk and Cres, where you can meet other backpackers and cruise through muddy terrain.

Or, try your hand at go-karting near Porec, at one of the best tracks in Croatia.

There's even an entire park dedicated to getting your blood pumping called Adrenaline Park.

Here you'll find the flying fox and giant swings to test out your stamina and courage as you move from pole to pole.

Experience an off-road adventure by taking a buggy safari tour where you'll also be stopping in local taverns to taste the local cuisine.

There are also three-day motorcycle trips of the Balkans from $540 (€490) if you have time.

Then there's free climbing in Istria or cave climbing as you descend on ropes into a maze of stalactites and stalagmites in Porec.

In fact, there is so much to do in Croatia. You may find one trip won't be enough!

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This story was brought to you in partnership with Adventure Driven Vacations. 

Easier Ways To Call Home When You Travel

Nearly two decades ago, I began my first-ever backpacking trip. I was traveling to Australia to live and work there for a year. I had no laptop, no music device, and no phone.

This may sound baffling to backpackers today, but back then, mobile phones were only for businessmen, and "flashpacker" wasn't even a word.

Beach
Calling home from the beach

The only option for calling home was to buy an international phone card from a local store and wait patiently in a long queue in an internet café to use the phone. Nowadays, you'd use a free app like NobelApp.

Or there was the alternative of locating a phone booth (remember them?) and making several attempts to dial before realizing that no one was even in.

Then I'd have to return to the only phone booth in town the following day to wish my dad a happy birthday.

The calls back home were few and far between; I would check in once a month to say I was still alive and give out my next destination.

Thankfully, things have come a long way since then, and the age of the smartphone has come to the backpacker's rescue.

No more looking for little stores, queuing in internet cafes, or hearing that dreaded beep when you were just about to run out of credit before you could say where you were.

Phone booth
Phone booth

Nowadays, our smartphone seems to be the one thing we can't travel without and is probably the backpacker's most prized possession on the road.

Most hostels no longer have computers, as travelers use their smartphones for Wi-Fi.

Buying a phone card today no longer means hunting for the nearest pay phone.

Instead, you can make calls straight from your smartphone, or with NobelCom, from your computer too, making for a cheap and easy way to call home.

International calls are now cheaper than ever. You can send international text messaging and even receive 24/7 support wherever you are.

Rates to call the United States start as low as 45 cents per minute and work from your smartphone using either Wi-Fi, your data connection, or access numbers.

Even if you don't have a smartphone, some international phone cards work with any phone, even landlines, and start from 90 cents per minute.

Staying in touch as a backpacker has never been easier. So, the next time you're traveling and need a cheap way to call home to wish your mom a happy Mother's Day, consider an app or phone card.

You could even call from the top of Ayers Rock to say "Merry Christmas." The possibilities are endless when you can get connected from anywhere.

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This story was brought to you in partnership with NobelCom. 

Why Every Traveler Should Attend a Gay Pride Festival

Gay Pride! Image source.
Gay Pride! Image source.

One of the most fun aspects of being a backpacker is finding festivals, local events, and celebrations in other parts of the world.

Anybody who has been in India at the time of Holi, Thailand for Songkran, or Mexico for Day of The Dead, will know how exciting it can be to celebrate these kinds of festivities alongside locals in an authentic way.

There are numerous countries in every part of the world that host LGBT Pride events, but have you ever thought about visiting a country to join in with the Pride celebrations?

If not, here are some reasons why you need to add a Pride festival to your backpacking bucket list.

Gay Pride Events Aren't Just for Gay People

You might be thinking, what reason would there be for me to visit an LGBT event if I don’t exist on the LGBT spectrum myself?

But all the best Gay Pride events have a “the more, the merrier” attitude, and that’s what makes them such fun to be part of.

When I visit Gay Pride parades, I love seeing straight couples having a great time and families who take their little kids along to join in with the celebrations.

At the center of most Gay Pride events is a parade of colorful costumes and floats that meander through a city’s streets, and when you look at all the different visual spectacles, it should become clear that LGBT Pride events are not one size fits all.

Above all, they are a celebration of diversity, and so anybody who is a friend to the LGBT community is more than welcome to the party.

See also: The Challenges of Being a Gay Traveler

You'll Learn Stuff

When you are a backpacker, you get to learn so many things about different cultures and places first hand - things that would be far harder to absorb from a book or a YouTube video.

And when you visit a Gay Pride event in any city in the world, you will invariably soak in pieces of information about LGBT people and their culture in that particular place.

I’m a thirty-year-old gay man who has been out since the age of 15, and I still learn new things every time I visit a gay Pride parade.

On my summer trip to Copenhagen Pride, I was heartened to see the proud, smiling faces of LGBT asylum seekers in the parade, and some local friends there educated me about the asylum and refugee culture within Denmark.

As a gay male, I don’t have much connection with the trans community, so I like to use LGBT events as a way to learn more about this important part of the spectrum too.

If you have never been to a Gay Pride parade before, a lot of it will feel alien and new but keep asking questions, and the local community will almost always be happy to fill you in – after all, Gay Pride parades are about visibility, education, and getting the word out there.

Read this post from Minority Nomad about a straight guy’s first experience at a Pride event, and you should be in no doubt about what an education it can be.

LGBT asylum seekers in the parade at Copenhagen Pride.
LGBT asylum seekers in the parade at Copenhagen Pride

You'll Have Tons of Fun

Yes, you’ll learn stuff at a Gay Pride event, but I think one of the significant reasons why Pride events are so conducive to learning is because the education is wrapped up in layers of fun. Gay folks know how to party.

During this summer alone, I danced for hours in an outdoor foam party at Barcelona Pride, I screamed at the top of my lungs for hours on end at a three-hour drag show at Copenhagen Pride (drag is everything to me, btw), and I raved it up inside an urban tent at Brighton Pride, grinding up against perfect strangers.

Twenty years ago, when gay marriage wasn’t a thing, LGBT Pride festivals focused more on practical workshops about being gay in the workplace and LGBT sexual health.

Now, it’s still essential to keep on learning and pushing things forward, but we also have reason to celebrate what has been achieved in the LGBT community.

And again, this is a celebration for straight people too, because an equal world benefits everyone within it.

And if you have a family, and you don’t want to do the all-night partying thing, bring the kids along and enjoy the fun of all the colors, glitter, and smiling faces!

See also: The World's Best Cities for Gay Clubbing

An epic foam party at Barcelona Pride.
An epic foam party at Barcelona Pride

Which Pride Festival to Visit

If you are sold on visiting a Pride parade, you’ll now have to decide which event to attend.

Gay Pride events tend to happen in the summertime, and while they are all over the world, they are more established in Europe and the States.

I lived in Mexico for 18 months – there is an enormous gay culture there, but there isn’t much of a Pride culture.

You’ll be able to find Pride parades in capital cities, towns, and beaches – so the choice is yours.

There’s probably even an LGBT Pride event in your home town, so you have no excuses not to visit one.

If you have any questions about LGBT Pride events, just let me know in the comments.

4 Facts I Wish I'd Known Before Moving to the UK

The United Kingdom is a popular destination for expats for many reasons. First, there is an abundance of work and educational opportunities.

As far as travel is concerned, the UK's geographical location is unbeatable. The entirety of Europe is a short plane, train, or automobile ride away, and you can cross the pond to North America in no time. However, I wish I'd looked into a few things before moving to the UK from Australia.

Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, London

1. A Lowdown on British Bureaucracy

The residents of the United Kingdom have many cultural quirks to their personalities - some I adore, others I find genuinely confusing. In particular, there were many hoops I had to jump through to get properly settled. The British love their red tape, which makes it tough to hit the ground running as a foreigner.

Apply for a NIN (National Insurance Number) as soon as possible (so, day two of residing in the UK, allowing one day for jet lag!). Start job and house hunting from the get-go. And steel yourself for the battle you will fight to open a bank account in Britain.

When I arrived, I was staying with a relative and was told I couldn't open an account without a statement from another bank, enrolling in the electorate, or signing a lease. I had to get a bank statement sent to London from Australia and use that as proof of address. (Hint: Go to Lloyds Bank. They allow you to open an account with a foreign passport).

I wish I'd researched what I needed to do to start earning and living in the UK rather than just playing it by ear. I would have been better prepared and saved myself a lot of stress.

2. British Pounds - the Currency that Doesn't Stop Giving

Not long after moving to the United Kingdom, the Pound Sterling quickly became my new favorite currency due to its strength on the market. When you're living in Britain, it can seem like you're not earning all that much (particularly in London, where living beyond your means is standard). However, converting those pounds to euros or dollars works in one's favor.

If you're savvy and keep your eye on the stock exchange, you can probably save up a lot more in your native currency than you ever would at home. I wish this were something I had started doing as soon as I began earning in pounds.

My only complaint is - why, why, why are they made of paper? Be sure to check all your pockets for rogue tenners before you put your clothes through the wash.

Related: Mistakes I Made When I Moved to the UK

London sunset
The sun sets at 9:30 to 10 p.m. in the height of summer.

3. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a Thing that Exists

At the end of last year, I felt distraught and couldn't quite figure out why. Then, I realized that the lack of natural light and Vitamin D was causing me to feel down. I recall one memorable day when the sun didn't rise until after nine in the morning, barely gracing us with its presence before dipping back over the horizon just after three in the afternoon. Dark days, indeed.

As a solar-powered Aussie, I found my first winter in the Northern Hemisphere challenging. I wish I'd planned more activities to brighten my days and take advantage of the little sun. Spend at least 20 minutes outside daily and buy a bright coat. You'll stand out; that's a certainty.

Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle

4. There's More to the United Kingdom than Just London

London is massive - and still expanding. Naturally, most expats would automatically head to this bustling metropolis. A broad range of work is available- whether you want to pull beers in a bar or make some headway in your professional career. However, it is easy to forget that many cities other than England's capital are just as pleasant.

Everyone moves to London. I don't regret following in the footsteps of so many before me because they do it for a reason. You could live your entire life in this city and never run out of things to do. Yet, sometimes, I wonder whether it's worth packing it all in to try my luck in Bristol, Liverpool, Brighton, or Newcastle.

I even daydream about moving as far north as Edinburgh, one of the most delightful cities I have ever entered. If you find yourself in a position where you could live and work in any other part of the country, give it some thought. After all, London is only a train ride away from almost anywhere in the region.

Through trial and error, I eventually found my feet and settled into life in the United Kingdom. I know this experience will prepare me for when I pack up shop and move on to the next chapter of my life overseas.

The Best Bodyweight Workout for Travelers

When traveling around the world, chances are gyms are not in your immediate thoughts. You'd rather spend your days exploring ancient temples, beautiful white sand beaches, and the quaint cobblestone streets of Europe. Who wants to spend their days sweaty in the gym, staring at a rack of dumbbells or a generic treadmill?

A woman doing bodyweight exercises at the beach
A woman exercising at the beach

As much as you want to spend your days relaxing and exploring, exercise is essential for your physical and mental health.

Exercise has many health benefits, including weight loss, decreasing the risk of developing diseases like cardiovascular disease, and improving mood.

While I'm not saying you should immediately put down that delicious chocolate croissant and run to the closest gym, I recommend blocking out at least 30 minutes daily to exercise.

Exercise can range from yoga, running, and weightlifting to walking around and sightseeing. The best part? You don't need a gym to exercise!

I've worked with many clients who would use the excuse of "I can't get to the gym" not to do their workouts. I call bullsh*t every time.

You can exercise anywhere. In a hostel. On the beach. Anywhere! So now you have no more excuses not to work out on your trip around the world.

It's a common misnomer that you need weights to do strength training. While dumbbells, barbells, and squat bars are necessary for some exercises, your body weight is the best piece of equipment you have.

Using your body weight, you can quickly get a full-body workout on the road without equipment. Consider adding the best pre-workouts for an energy boost.

Table of Contents

  • The Workout
    • Burpees
    • Wall Sit
    • Plank
    • Triceps Dip
    • Jump Lunges
  • The 30-Minute Bodyweight Hostel Workout

The Workout

Burpees

Burpees are the ultimate bodyweight exercise that everyone loves to hate. People hate them because they are hard, but they're also practical. Burpees are equipment-free exercises that work your whole body and are also intense cardiovascular exercises.

How to Do a Burpee: Start standing with your feet hip-width apart. Lower your body into a squatting position and place your hands on the floor in front of you. Step or jump both feet back until you're in a push-up position. Complete a push-up. Jump your feet back to their original position, stand up, and then jump into the air with your arms above your head.

Wall Sit

You'll need a wall for this exercise. Wall sits are a great way to work your quadriceps and hamstrings while on the road. Wall sits aren't complicated; they are just painful. Be prepared for some shaking and crying.

How to do a wall sit: Find a wall and slowly slide your back down until your thighs are parallel to the ground, almost like you're sitting in a chair. Ensure your knees are directly above the ankles and your back is pushed back straight against the wall. Think about sucking your belly button right into your spine. Looking for a challenge? Grab some water bottles or rocks and do biceps curls.

Plank

Planks are one of the best core exercises. Skip crunches and sit-ups, which add unnecessary strain to your spine, and do some planks. Not only does a plank work all your ab muscles, but it also works your shoulders and arms and improves your balance and posture.

Related: How to Beat Jet Lag in Six Steps

By Jaykayfit (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons. bodyweight workout for travelers
By Jaykayfit (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

How to do a plank: Lie face down on the floor with your forearms on the floor. Extend your legs behind your body and rise up on your toes. Make sure your shoulders are directly in line with your elbows. Keep forearms straight in an "11" shape. Keep your back straight and hips up, and tighten your core. Hold the position for 30-60 seconds or as long as possible. Keep your head and neck in line with the rest of your spine. 

Triceps Dip

Your triceps are those tiny muscles in the back of your arms. While many people focus on their biceps, the triceps are just as important as they help extend the arm, which is essential when you want to drink your beer. All you need for triceps dips is a chair or a large rock.

How to do a triceps dip: Sit on the edge of a chair or bench. Grab the edge of the surface with one hand on either side of your legs. Slide your bottom off the chair and drop it towards the floor right in front of it. Bend your arms until they come to a 90-degree angle, then straighten your arms again. For an easier dip, keep your feet on the ground. Straighten your legs and keep only your heels on the ground if you want a challenge. 

Jump Lunges

Lunges are a great exercise to target all the major leg, butt, and core muscles. Lunges are incredibly versatile and can be done with or without weight. And lunges have many benefits, including improved balance, better hip flexibility, and a more toned bottom. While there are multiple ways to do lunges, the jump lunge is one fun alternative that also serves as a cardiovascular exercise.

How to jump lunge: Start in the lunge position with the right foot forward. Use your arms to propel you as you jump into the air and switch legs, landing in a lunge with your left foot forward. Repeat and continue switching.

There are so many other bodyweight exercises that you can do on the road. These are just a few of my personal favorites. Here's a quick exercise routine using the above exercises that you can complete in under 30 minutes, anywhere.

The 30-Minute Bodyweight Hostel Workout

5-Minute warm-up: You can run around the block a few times, do jumping jacks, or do anything that gets your heart rate up and your muscles warmed up.

Complete for one round:

  • 15 Burpees
  • 30-60 second Plank
  • 15 Lunge Jumps
  • 15 Triceps Dips
  • 30-60 second Wall Sit
  • 30-60 second Plank

Rest for 30-60 seconds before repeating the round for a total of 5-8 rounds.

Cool Down: Walk or jog around the block and stretch.

***

Now that you know more about the different forms of gym-free exercises and workouts, you should also know about post-workout recovery. Exercise is good for the whole body, but it can sometimes cause muscle soreness, fatigue, or even pain.

When you're not traveling, consider using workout recovery tools like Exogun, an affordable percussion massager that effectively eases pain, speeds up muscle recovery, and is trusted by many of the world's athletes.

_______

Note: If you are starting an exercise routine for the first time, remember to consult with your healthcare provider. These exercises are done at your own risk.

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Dave at Ahu Ko Te Riku on Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile.

Hi, I'm Dave

Editor in Chief

I've been writing about adventure travel on Go Backpacking since 2007. I've visited 68 countries.

Read more about Dave.

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