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How To Be Lost Without Looking Lost

This is a guest post by Jasmine. If you'd like to guest post on Go Backpacking, please read more here.

This sign probably won't help you find your way (Port of Spain, Trinidad).
This sign probably won't help you find your way (Port of Spain, Trinidad).

You've ventured out to explore your new city, and you have no clue where you are. You also happen to be in a region in which you stick out like a store thumb, and the stares you're getting seem to intensify the situation.

Your map is in your bag - but do you really want to pull it out on that busy street corner or that dodgy neighborhood?

No, you don't.

Here's how to be lost without looking lost.

Don't Look Up

While you're lost, you begin to read the names of every single street and every single sign that you pass. A lot of these indicators will be above your line of sight, so your head resembles something like a pinball that has been shot furiously by the right flipper. Do you see the locals looking up, or looking around wildly? No. They are well aware of how tall their buildings are - looking up is a dead giveaway that you're not from around here.

Ask. Rinse. Repeat.

It's okay to ask for directions. The best way to do this covertly is to duck into a corner store, buy a pack of gum or a snack, and ask the cashier for help. If you confuse yourself again, do it again in another store. So you're six packs of Trident richer - at least you made it back to your hostel! And your breath will be minty fresh. It's a win/win.

My 8th cafe mocha of the day (Christchurch, New Zealand).
My 8th cafe mocha of the day (Christchurch, New Zealand).

Hesitate And Perish

Have you ever sat in an outdoor cafe in a new city and watched its inhabitants walk by? Generally speaking, large city dwellers (that's dwellers of large cities, not overweight city dwellers) tend to walk quickly and confidently. Even in smaller towns and coastal destinations, the people walk with a definitive purpose. They are going somewhere.

I, on the other hand, am rarely going somewhere. I like to wander, hence the name of my blog. One thing I don't do, though, when I'm trying not to look lost, is hesitate. Your mind goes, "Wait, was it that street or the next one?" and your body makes this complete, dramatic, obvious stop. Next thing you know, all eyes are on you. Keep it moving until you figure out where the hell you're at. Reducing your pace gives you some more time; just make sure it's in line with the rhythm of the other people around you.

 

A great opportunity to hide a map (Sihanoukville, Cambodia).
A great opportunity to hide a map (Sihanoukville, Cambodia).

The Clandestine Map Glance

You're itching to have a look at the map in your bag, sure that you could find your present location on it. What I normally do is fold the map up in my purse so that only the part I need is showing. That way, I can easily open up my purse, acting as if I'm digging around for something else, when really I'm looking at my map. If the map is too big for that, I take a seat in a park or on a bench and try to hide the map from view by placing it in my notebook or another book I might be carrying. (Note: not a guidebook. Duh. Another dead giveaway).

No Backtracking

Strolling down the street in a general state of confusion, you reach the corner, and all of a sudden you realize this is not where you were trying to go. You do an abrupt about-face and retrace your steps. Now you've gotten the attention of everyone on the street: the two guys leaning against the wall talking, the woman chatting with a neighbor, and the motorcyclist parking his bike. To avoid this one, have a walk around the block. You'll end up back where you started, and no one will be the wiser.

It's okay to be lost. It's an unavoidable part of travel. However, there are ways to be cool about it, and there are ways to look like a traveling freak show.

May all your wrong turns be stealthy!

___________

About the Author: Jasmine is a 20-something female traveling around the world solo. She is currently falling in love with Colombia, eating arepas, drinking tinto, and saying "chimba." Catch up with her adventures at Jasmine Wanders Travel Blog and follow her on Twitter @jasminewanders.

Tea Tasting in China

As a fan of green and white tea before my trip around the world, I was excited to reach China where tea drinking is the norm.  I spent a lot of time tea tasting in China (mostly black and green), and people watching in the parks.

Large thermuses of hot water are given to customers who order tea in the People's Park of Chengdu, China.
Large thermuses of hot water are given to customers who order tea in the People's Park of Chengdu, China.
Snow on Green Lake Jasmine tea
Snow on Green Lake Jasmine tea
All of the accutrements are on display for a typical Chinese tea tasting ritual.
All of the accutrements are on display for a typical Chinese tea tasting ritual.
The more expensive teas are sold in discs or blocks.
The more expensive teas are sold in discs or blocks.
Adam, from England, gave me his copy of The Beach before we went our separate ways in China. The photo was taken while I was reading and enjoying a glass of hot, herbal tea in a Chengdu park.
Adam, from England, gave me his copy of The Beach before we went our separate ways in China. The photo was taken while I was reading and enjoying a glass of hot, herbal tea in a Chengdu park.
A pitcher of thick, salty Tibetan butter tea was way more than I could handle.
A pitcher of thick, salty Tibetan butter tea was way more than I could handle.
When you go to a tea shop in China for a tasting, they'll serve you as many refills of the little cups as you can handle.
When you go to a tea shop in China for a tasting, they'll serve you as many refills of the little cups as you can handle.
Loose green tea for sale at a shop in Chengdu, China.
Loose green tea for sale at a shop in Chengdu, China.

10 Travel Blogs Looking for Guest Posts

Writing from the road (Koh Phangan, Thailand).
Writing from the road (Koh Phangan, Thailand).

I'm trying to grow my blog and I'm guessing because you are reading this, that you are too.

Like me, you have probably been told that guest posting is a great way to showcase your writing, get the word out about your website, and improve search engine rankings.

As a backpacker, I recognize that every single item I buy will not only subtract from my travel budget but will also add to the weight of the pack I'm toting around on my back.

The same logic can be applied to the hours spent researching good places to offer up our writing.

Every hour spent in research is an hour lost posting to our own blogs so when I found 12 travel blogs looking for guest posts I shared them with my readers and freed up the night for something else.

Later I realized I had still missed a trick. I should have guest posted the article about guest posting.

This time I have not made the same mistake with the following ten blogs that would be interested in your guest writing.

In the Know Traveler

ITKT promotes original stories, blogs, and features written by seasoned pros and articulate novices alike.

Substantial submission guidelines and a checklist for writers are readily available and for some articles and blog posts a small payment is made.

Past guest posts:

  • Haji Ali Masjid in the Mumbai Monsoon
  • Malta, the Cart Ruts Mystery

Indie Travel Podcast

Traveling full time, Craig and Linda have built ITP into an excellent multimedia travel site attracting around 20,000 unique visitors a month.

Past guest posts:

foXnoMad

Anil promises to read and consider every submission he receives to his large repository of ways and gadgets vagabonds can use to save money, stay in touch, and make the most of their travels.

Past guest posts:

The World is my Jungle Gym

Brendan van Son's site is meant to allow the reader to close their eyes and see the sights, smell the scents, and feel the emotion as if they were there alongside the writer.

Guest posts are accepted if not necessarily encouraged.

Past guest posts:

Wild Junket

Nellie Huang is a fairly prolific guest blogger herself and her own blog welcomes the writings of others for the Your Wildest Adventure series.

Past guest posts:

__________

About the Author: Shane Donovan writes about working and traveling around the world in The Working Traveller. He also edits the Jobs Abroad Bulletin.

Photos by David Lee.

How to Choose the Best Seat on a Bus

Traveling across a country via bus can be a lot of fun and can also be very painful. Choosing the best seat can make or break a 12-hour bus ride. Everyone has their preferences, but I will break down several factors to consider when boarding your next long-distance bus ride.

These insider tips on how to choose the best seat on a bus are geared towards bus rides over three hours in length in Mexico but can easily be applied to other countries.

There's strategy in learning how to choose the best seat on a bus in Mexico.
Buses in Mexico (photo: Dave Lee)

Trying to figure out where to go next? Check out the available deals at Travelocity.com.

Things to consider before selecting a seat

  • Do the windows open and close?
  • Are there blinds?
  • Do the seats recline?
  • Is there a bathroom onboard?
  • Are there movie screens, and where are they located?
  • Are there assigned seats?
  • Is there air conditioning?

See also: Safety Tips for Riding Buses in Ecuador

Know in advance what you want to get the best seat on a bus.
A bus station in Mexico (photo: Dave Lee)

How to choose your seat on the bus

Aisle or Window Seat

Some people love the view, gazing out the window on a scenic mountain drive. Unfortunately, if someone sits down in the aisle seat next to you, you will need to have them move every time you need to get up. The window seat also has limited legroom. In the aisle seat, you have the space but not the view.

Access to the bathroom is easy, but you also get bumped by every person walking by. If you can stay seated for extended periods and don't mind limited space, the window seat is for you. For me, it's the aisle.

View of Movie Screen

If you know there are TVs onboard, pick a seat with a direct view. Killing time has never been easier than watching three movies straight in a different language.

Distance to Restroom

You never want to be directly next to the restroom because of the foul smell, but being somewhat close can be helpful.

If you know you'll need to use it a few times during the ride, a front-row seat isn't great because you bump into people every time you need to run to the toilet. About five to six rows from the back will work fine, reducing the smell but keeping you within a moment's reach.

Electronic Seat Selection

If you can choose your seat ahead of time, the best bet is to select an aisle seat in an empty row. No one wants to have to squeeze past a stranger to get to the window seat, leaving you with a good chance of having two places to yourself. If the bus is packed, your aisle seat may be helpful if the person beside you is larger than average.

Time of Day

After making this mistake a few times, I finally learned an important tip: Know where the sun will be during your journey! Sitting in the sun will only worsen things if you're already feeling hot.

For a more comfortable trip, sit on the left side of the bus if you're heading north in the morning, and on the right side if you're heading south. Just remember, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west.

Last-Minute Adjustments

Once the boarding begins, does it look like the bus will fill up? If not, jump over to an empty row before someone else takes advantage of it. The worst that can happen is that the person whose seat you stole jumps on board at the last minute, and you head back to your place.

If I were boarding an 8-10 hour bus in the morning heading south that had TVs, AC, seat selection, and a bathroom, I would sit five to six rows from the back in a right-hand aisle seat, praying no one sat next to me.

When the mom with the crying baby or sumo wrestler plop down next to you, at least you have the movies to stare at, right?

Friday Flashback: Celebrating Carnaval in Colombia

Parade float
Parade float

In early 2009, I knew I wanted to live in Medellin, but before I could settle down, I had to head for the coast to experience Colombia's largest Carnaval celebration.

Having never been to New Orleans for Mardi Gras or Brazil for Carnaval, I went on a mission to experience similar festivities in Shakira's home town of Barranquilla.

I quickly met up with a motley crew of Europeans and Australians, and we hit the parades and street parties for two days straight.

Celebrating Carnaval in Colombia:

Book Review: What Boundaries, Live Your Dream

As a reader of travel books and memoirs, I think it's safe to say that I am passionate about other people's journeys. 

Keep in mind, however, that these journeys I speak of are hardly ever the physical ones.

Each globetrotter, nomad, and wander-luster explores the world for his or her own unique reasons, experiences it in his or her special way, and grows from it in a defining manner that can only be applied on an individual basis.

Take Lisa Chavis and Cheryl MacDonald, for instance: Two forty-something, house-owning, well-established women who left everything behind to embark on a 12-European-country backpacking excursion that transformed them from naive tourists to experienced globe travelers.

In January of 2010, they published the beginning of their story with What Boundaries, Live Your Dream.

It was not their Irish horror stories of food poisoning that kept me interested.

Not even their recounts of heavenly gelato in Tuscany nor of the beauties of the French coastline kept me hooked. I read for their honesty.

I sympathized as they spent possibly too money purchasing the best of the best backpacker's backpack and ended up regretting the heavy investment.

I understood the feeling as the two ladies bickered from transportation exhaustion.

I laughed as they became stained in red at Spain's La Tomatina Festival or nearly got trampled by wild horses in Austria (don't worry, they were laughing too).

I felt as if I were there because often I had been, and even if I hadn't there was enough dialogue to feel like I was in the middle of their international conversations.

As we rode the bus back to the boat that afternoon, she [Cheryl] explained, "This trip. This time. This place. All these are very meaningful to me. I feel like I was meant to take this journey to find them. And a part of me that was lost."

I [Lisa] understood perfectly.

No matter what your level of travel "expertise" (whatever that is) I doubt that you'd be able to relate either.

Since Europe, the dynamic duo has traveled to 4 continents, 30 countries and over 200 cities.

You are more than welcome to be inspired by part one of their world travels in, What Boundaries, Live Your Dream, and then continue following their adventures on their blog.

And after that? Well, if you want to go backpacking through Europe, or do just about anything else, just do it.

Or rather, in the words of Lisa and Cheryl: Live your dream!

The 6,000 Horses of La Cabalgata

A woman keeping cool control of her horse. I was surprised to find a lot more women riding than I expected. Many of them were young, and stylishly dressed. This is Medellin after all.
A woman keeping cool control of her horse. I was surprised to find a lot more women riding than I expected. Many of them were young and stylishly dressed. This is Medellin after all.

The day after fireworks kicked off the 2010 Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) in Medellin, I met up with Lily, a Colombian friend, for La Cabalgata (horse parade).

Imagine 6,000 horses trotting through your city, the streets lined with onlookers drinking, eating, and cheering them on.

Don't imagine the smell of all that horse crap after a few hours; it stinks, to say the least, and there's a good chance you'll be walking over it at some point, so if you are lucky enough to attend, do not wear sandals.

Despite multiple advanced warnings by Lily, I was so busy taking photos that I missed the pickpocket swiping my BlackBerry Curve 8900 from my front jean pocket.

It was an expensive lesson to learn and put a damper on the end of my first Cabalgata experience.

On the bright side, I still had my camera.

Riders, both men and women, passed around bottles of liquor to drink during the parade. Police on horseback were in the mix to keep the event under control.
Riders, both men, and women, passed around bottles of liquor to drink during the parade. Police on horseback were in the mix to keep the event under control.

The parade route was congested with a mix of horses, people, and trucks.
The parade route was congested with a mix of horses, people, and trucks.

A woman holds up a bottle of Aguardiente (the local firewater), while a donkey carries custom speakers blasting vallenato music.
A woman holds up a bottle of Aguardiente (the local firewater), while a donkey carries custom speakers blasting vallenato music.

The mariachi band rolling along on a converted pick-up truck was a crowd favorite.
The mariachi band rolling along on a converted pick-up truck was a crowd favorite.

A pickpocketer's paradise. Industrious Colombians and regular street vendors sold everything from coffee, ice cream, beer, and liquor to packs of gum.
A pickpocketer's paradise. Industrious Colombians and regular street vendors sold everything from coffee, ice cream, beer, and liquor to packs of gum.

Traditional hats such as these are more commonly seen in the countryside (vs. the large cities). To celebrate La Feria de las Flores, many more people were wearing them then normal.
Traditional hats such as these are more commonly seen in the countryside (vs. the large cities). To celebrate La Feria de las Flores, many more people were wearing them than normal.

Typical Colombian street food: chicken, chorizo, potatoes, and (possibly) crispy pig ears to the right.
Typical Colombian street food: chicken, chorizo, potatoes, and (possibly) crispy pig ears to the right.

Tents were set up by families and friends along the parade route. Food was grilled, alcohol was consumed, and there were even a few tents with DJ's and people dancing.
Tents were set up by families and friends along the parade route. Food was grilled, alcohol was consumed, and there were even a few tents with DJ's and people dancing.

The parade winds down at sunset.
The parade winds down at sunset.

Feria de las Flores: Medellin's Biggest Street Party

Friday night fireworks kick off the start of the 2010 La Feria de las Flores.
Friday night fireworks kick off the start of the 2010 La Feria de las Flores

A little after 9 pm on the last Friday night of July, multi-colored fireworks began exploding over downtown Medellin. 

The streets below, closed to vehicular traffic, were packed with partying Paisas ready to enjoy the first weekend of the city's 2010 Feria de las Flores (Festival of Flowers).

Troy, a long-time contributor here at Go Backpacking, and I were in the thick of this first of many street parties and parades scheduled to celebrate Antioquean culture.

According to Wikipedia, the first Festival of Flowers took place on May 1, 1957.

Since that first flower parade, the festival has expanded into a week-long series of events so numerous they can quickly leave a visitor's head spinning.

One of the many women riding horses in La Cabalgata.
One of the many women riding horses in La Cabalgata

The following day (after a late night out, and a lot of rum), I met up with Lily, a Colombian friend, and some others to attend La Cabalgata. 

Even though we only caught the tail end of the 6,000-horse parade, it was still my favorite event of the entire 10-day festival.

I'd heard anyone could rent a horse and thereby participate. 

Given the amount of alcohol being consumed, and general rowdiness of the crowds and riders, you'd better know how to control a horse before you pay the pesos to hop on the saddle.

Speaking of alcohol, I was also informed that there was supposed to be a ban on drinking while riding the horses this year, given the trouble it can cause. 

Despite plenty of police on horseback, there was no evidence of riders being restricted from openly passing bottles of rum and Aguardiente around.

Alongside the parade route, families, friends, and vendors had set up tents from which to enjoy the action, and make a few extra bucks. 

The scope of the event was far bigger than I imagined, and I quietly vowed to be around in 2011 to experience La Cabalgata more fully.

During the week, there were plenty of open-air concerts and activities occurring throughout the city. However, I preferred to focus on the more prominent events the following weekend.

The one exception was the orchid exhibition that was held in Medellin's botanical gardens.

I was there with Christine of Almost Fearless, and husband Drew, as they garnered additional footage for their documentary, plus Troy and Ana (a new contributor for Medellin Living). 

A producer for a regional television channel noticed Drew's video camera, and a discussion ensued.

The result? We were interviewed on live television within minutes, with Ana helping to translate for us!

Pilsen, a local beer company, issued "Paisa" branded beer cans to celebrate La Feria de las Flores. Colombians originally from the Antioquia region (including Medellin) are called "paisas."
Pilsen, a local beer company, issued "Paisa" branded beer cans to celebrate La Feria de las Flores. Colombians originally from the Antioquia region (including Medellin) are called "paisas."

On the second Saturday of the Flower Festival, I attended the antique car parade. 

A grease monkey I am not, however, who can argue with enjoying a few cold beers under a warm, early-afternoon sun?

This parade was much more family-friendly in comparison to La Cabalgata, and there were plenty of kids hoisted on their parent's shoulders to get a good view.

An antique car rolls down Avenida Las Vegas in El Poblado.
An antique car rolls down Avenida Las Vegas in El Poblado.

The cars and trucks were driven, mostly by their proud owners, in roughly the order from newest to oldest. 

P in the cars dressed up in the style of the period from which it was manufactured.

In addition to regular vehicles, there was also a range of others, such as old police cars, fire trucks, and army vehicles. 

Sixties muscle cars were well-represented, such as Mustangs, as were the antique cars.

The people carrying the flower displays (silletas) are called silleteros.
The people carrying the flower displays (silletas) are called silleteros

La Feria de las Flores ended with none other than the flower parade on a partly sunny Sunday afternoon.

The fresh flower displays are all handmade in Santa Elena, a small pueblo outside Medellin, the day before the parade. 

Corporations can even buy advertising, in the form of a flower display, to be carried in the parade. 

All of the flowers, which are mounted on wooden frames, are carried on the backs of men and women from around Santa Elena.

The ideal way to view and photograph the parade would be from the bleachers set up along the route, however, where's the fun in making life easy?

Instead, Troy, Drew, and I ended up ducking under a makeshift fence and walking fast and furiously along the parade route to try and find an opening in the crowd of onlookers. 

This approach didn't fare too well, and judging by the people perched in trees, more aggressive tactics were required.

The silletas for the parade are handmade in the nearby town of Santa Elena.
The silletas for the parade are handmade in the nearby town of Santa Elena

As we continued to move down a street that paralleled the parade, we bumped into Robert Rose (of Raw Travel), another American recording parade footage for a video project.

He joined our roving gang in search of a clear vantage point.

Even the dogs got into the act, pulling little wheeled carts with miniature silettas.
Even the dogs got into the act, pulling little wheeled carts with miniature silettas

Eventually, after nearing the end of the parade route, and backtracking to reunite with Christine and baby, someone noticed a TV crew taping the parade from above an unfinished bridge extension. 

The liberal use of a popular media outlet's name later, and we too had access to the bridge.

Perched above the street and crowds, we had unfettered views of the parade's final 30 minutes, with the red brick apartment buildings and green mountains of Medellin providing a picturesque backdrop.

Towards the end of the parade, the Colombian army was represented.
Towards the end of the parade, the Colombian army was represented

In 2009, I traveled to Barranquilla to attend Colombia's biggest Carnaval celebration. 

While it's fun to spray strangers with specially formulated shaving cream, the street party is limited to one weekend.

I was pleasantly surprised to find the annual Feria de las Flores in Medellin offers the same festive (and highly intoxicating) atmosphere over 10 days as you'd get in Barranquilla over 3-4 days, plus the variety of parades keeps it interesting.

________

Note:  If you plan to attend Medellin's annual Feria de las Flores, book your accommodation early, and expect to pay especially high (possibly double the normal) rates. Also, beware of pickpockets as they operate best in large crowds such as those that gather for the parades.

____________

Medellin Travel GuideMy 138-page, all-original Medellín Travel Guide is now available for Kindle and PDF.

 

 

 

 

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Top 10: Where To Find The Cheapest Deals In The World When Traveling

International currencies

Thinking about traveling or moving to a new country but not sure what to expect on prices for food, hotels, and taxis?

Have you ever wanted to know what a beer costs in your city compared to what it will cost on your next vacation destination? 

Want a simple program that will do it all for you and show you these numbers?  Well then check out Numbeo.com!

Numbeo is a collection of Web pages containing numerical data, designed to enable anyone to contribute or modify content. Numbeo provides statistical analysis of collected data, calculates various indexes using aggregate data and periodically publishes analysis of collected data.  As of 18-Aug-2010 Numbeo database contains information for 774 cities from 3111 different contributors.

Numbeo is a free/user supported website that allows you to compare city costs from around the world in a fast and efficient way.  When I first glanced at this site I wasn't impressed until I started playing around with it.  

[Note: one can easily waste away a whole day looking things up on here!]

If your going to a new country and want to know how much a liter of gas is or what a Pepsi costs, then give it a try.  

The side-by-side comparison of cities is a great visual way to know how much to save before your trip, and what the average costs will be when you go there.  

I played around with it on a few countries that I know pretty well and the results were what I expected. 

Although I found a few things that I disagreed on, overall it was pretty accurate.

If your city is not listed, you can submit information to start a listing for it.

Remember, the more people who update it,  the more accurate it will be.

Want to know some facts according to the site?

(all prices are listed in USD)

Cheapest Place to Backpack in the World

Where is the cheapest place to backpack in the world?

None other than Ahmedabad, India for as little as $17.00 per day!  

You might want to stay only a few days in Stavanger, Norway though because at $181.55 per-day you're going to be broke in a month!

[Prices take into account: the minimum price of 1 star and 2-star hotels, 1 meal in McDonald's or similar, 1 meal in inexpensive restaurants, 1 Coke or Pepsi, 1 water, 1 domestic beer and 4 one-way tickets in public transport.]

Where to Find the Most Expensive McDonald's Big Mac Meal

Did you know that the cheapest average Combo Meal at McDonald's or Similar is in Kharkiv, Ukraine at only $2.00 but the highest is in Lausanne, Switzerland for $16.16!  

Who knew a Big Mac was worth so much?

Can Cigarettes Really Cost That Much in Australia?

Sydney, Australia has the highest priced Pack of Cigarettes (Marlboro) in the world at $18.50 but they only cost $0.50 in Karachi, Pakistan.  

So no bumming a smoke from amigos in Oz my friends, because at almost a dollar a pop, it's no "mi casa es su casa."

Best Place in The World For a Cheap Taxi

Taxis (5km within the center) in Esfahan, Iran costs as little as $0.30, while the same ride in Gotheborg, Sweden averages around $40.45.

Translation: fuel is cheaper then water in Iran!

Where to Get the Best Price For a Coca-Cola!

Thirsty?  A Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle) in Manila, Philippines costs only pennies ($0.30) compared to the same drink in Copenhagen, Denmark which will set you back $4.31.  

Note to self: when visiting Denmark, load up on Coca-Cola before departure and sell on the Black Market upon arrival.

Cheapest Place in The World For an Apartment

Thinking about retiring somewhere?  

Try an Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center of Vadodara, India for an average months rent of $30.01.  

If you want to know where not to retire on a budget, then heads-up on the same size apartment in Monaco because at $2,564.00 per month average for rent... you're not going to be retired for very long, as you'll need to pick up a new job to cover costs!

World's Most Expensive Fuel Costs

Who needs fuel? For $0.04 you can get one liter of petrol in Caracas, Venezuela but in Istanbul, Turkey it will run you as high as $2.41 per liter.  

So on a side note: you can take a dip in a bathtub full of gasoline for a mere $5 in Caracas because when it's that cheap, why not!

Cheapest Place to Get a Movie Ticket

Ever see a movie in Tehran, Iran before because the cost for a Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat will set you back only $1.70 while in Vienna, Austria it can be as high as $25.64!  

And they wonder why all the piracy websites are in Austria... people can't afford the original stuff!

Best Deal on a Loaf of Bread

In Algiers, Algeria the average costs of a loaf of fresh bread is only $0.13.  

Want something a little more gourmet? Then go to Pescara, Italy where a loaf of bread will break your wallet at $4.49.  

There had better be some spaghetti in that bread for that much!

Where to Get The Most Bang For Your US Dollar

If you go to Chennai, India you can get 89.05% more for your dollar then if you lived in New York City. That's a lot of extra curry dishes you could eat!  

Click here to see Local Purchasing Power.

Likewise though, if you go to Geneva, Switzerland you will take a 38.75% hit compared to what you could have gotten in New York City.  

So buy the Swiss Army Knife back home my friend and you will save.

Cost of Living Index (current: 18Aug10)

 
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post.  All numbers were pulled from Numbeo.com and listed by the author.  Photo credits were linked back to original Flicker.com page or owners website-homepage.

Friday Flashback: Sightseeing in Medellin

View of Medellin from atop Pueblito Paisa (a small, centrally located hill).
View of Medellin from atop Pueblito Paisa (a small, centrally located hill).

Here I am, drafting this post while living in Medellin once again. It feels like the last year and a half since I first arrived in the city has flown by. Looking back, I packed a lot of sightseeing in my first few weeks in the city.

The Greek Islands (a Photo Essay)

When my sister and I decided to explore the Greek islands last summer, we had trouble with the logistics. We wanted to go to so many places, but to say that the ferry schedules were confusing is an understatement.

Yes, it's really like the movies; the island of Mykonos is full of picturesque white-washed churches with blue domes.
Yes, it's really like the movies; the island of Mykonos is full of picturesque white-washed churches with blue domes.

Many of the islands we wanted to visit didn't have direct ferry routes to and from each other, and I kept hearing that ferry schedules changed often and frequently ran late. That many flights would be too expensive.

We found out that Louis Cruises operates cruises through the Greek islands, and it turned out to be the perfect way for us to cover a lot of territory without the hassle of dealing with the logistics.

It was smaller than your average commercial line, and the low-cost, five-night cruise took us to Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, Kusadasi, and Santorini.

We didn't get to spend too much time in any one place, but it gave us a taste of many islands and helped me figure out where I want to return and spend more time (Mykonos and Santorini, of course!).

We also started and ended in Athens, so we took a few days to explore it. I was awed by the blue water and white buildings-the Greek islands were just as gorgeous as I had imagined. Here are some of my favorite photos from that trip.

Octopus are a popular part of Greek cuisine. I found these octopi drying on a sailboat in Mykonos.
Octopus is a popular part of Greek cuisine. I found these octopi drying on a sailboat in Mykonos.
This beautiful section of Mykonos is called Little Venice because its narrow buildings sit directly on the Aegean Sea.
This beautiful section of Mykonos is called Little Venice because its narrow buildings sit directly on the Aegean Sea.
These windmills are the one Mykonos's trademarks. They were once used to grind agricultural produce, and while they are no longer operational, they are still an impressive sight.
These windmills are one of Mykonos's trademarks. They were once used to grind agricultural produce, and while they are no longer operational, they are still an impressive sight.
The island of Patmos is home to the Monastery of St. John (the brown structure pictured in the top right corner). It is also home to the Cave of the Apocalypse, where it's said that St. John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelations.
The island of Patmos is home to the Monastery of St. John (the brown structure pictured in the top right corner) and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where it's said that St. John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelations.
The Old Town part of Rhodes, Greece is still surrounded by its impressive medieval wall.
The Old Town part of Rhodes, Greece, is still surrounded by its impressive medieval wall.
Here's an interior shot I took of the walled-in Old Town Rhodes. Rhodes has 14 mosques due to an Ottoman takeover in the 1500s, one of which you can see in the bottom left. While you're here, be sure to visit the Archeological Museum housed in the restored Hospital of the Knights.
Here's an interior shot I took of the walled-in Old Town Rhodes. Rhodes has 14 mosques due to an Ottoman takeover in the 1500s, one of which you can see in the bottom left. While here, visit the Archaeological Museum housed in the restored Hospital of the Knights.
I took this image as our boat approached the island of Santorini. You can see the white buildings perched on craggy cliffs.
I took this image as our boat approached the island of Santorini. The white buildings are perched on craggy cliffs.
To visit Santorini's capital, Fira, you have to ride up in a cable car or take a donkey ride. I took this image of us ascending in the funicular.
To visit Santorini's capital, Fira, you must ride up in a cable car or take a donkey ride. I took this image of us ascending in the funicular.
The island of Santorini was once a volcanic cone whose top was blown off, and then became a caldera. From Santorini, you can see several nearby dark volcanic islands, such as those pictured here. As you can see, the cafes on Santorini have breathtaking views.
The island of Santorini was once a volcanic cone whose top was blown off and became a caldera. Several nearby dark volcanic islands, such as those pictured here, can be seen from Santorini. As you can see, the cafes on Santorini have breathtaking views.

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About the Author: Emily Starbuck Gerson is a writer based in Austin, Texas. She's a copywriter in the travel industry by day. She runs her travel blog, Maiden Voyage, in her free time and does freelance writing and editing. Follow her on X @TheMaidenVoyage.

Friday Flashback: Coffee and Couchsurfing in Bogota

Plaza Bolivar - Bogota, Colombia
Plaza Bolivar - Bogota, Colombia

Before leaving Spain, I'd already had my wallet stolen by a pickpocket.  Was traveling to Colombia going to be that much more of a risk than getting on a crowded metro after an FC Barcelona match?

Due to a Couchsurfing stay in Bogota, I quickly began to feel at ease in a country with a violent past, and a troubled present (America's ongoing demand for cocaine doesn't help).

Fireworks at the Feria de Las Flores in Medellin

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia
The fireworks were launched off the top of this building next to the concert stage.

The night of July 30th kicked off the annual Fiesta de Flores here in Medellin, Colombia.  

It's the biggest festival of the year for Medellin and one not to be missed if you are in the area in the first week of August.  

Every day there is something different going on, from horse parades to car shows, street parties and lots and lots of drinking and eating!

To start the festival, they had live music downtown with a fireworks show at the end.

Below are the photos I took that night, all of which were taken with my travel camera.  

I dragged my expensive tripod down there too (hoping it wouldn't get stolen) just to get some nice long exposures, but forgot the clamp to mount the camera to the tripod.

I cursed myself for such a rookie mistake but was able to get a few good photographs even with the low light conditions and having to handhold the camera.

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia
... but something tells me that if the insurance company knew this they would flip!

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

 

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

 

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

 

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

 

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

 

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia

Fireworks for the Fiesta de Flores, Medellin, Colombia
10 minutes after this photo was taken it started to really pour.  If you had an umbrella it was a great way to get close to a girl.  Note to Self: Carry an umbrella at all times!

How to Deal with Traveler's Diarrhea

This is a guest post by Phil Paoletta. If you'd like to guest post on Go Backpacking, please read more here.

I am a little over a month into my travels around West Africa and for the first time on this trip, I have experienced catastrophic, explosive diarrhea. This was inevitable - my eating habits have been reckless and I often purchase sachet water (" pure water" sold in 500ml bags for about 3 cents) that tastes like dirt.

This particular brand of diarrhea wakes you up in the middle of night and offers you a few seconds to find a toilet (or something toilet-like). If you make it to the toilet, you can find solace in that fact alone, because what happens while you are sitting on it is absolutely horrific. There is no relief, only terror, when pure fluid is coming out of your ass. When you stand up, vertigo takes hold and you have a splitting headache. You realize that along with your life-force in general, you've also just pooped out your cranial fluid. You stagger back to bed - anything else is impossible.

So what do you do about it?

First, be proactive, travelers diarrhea is avoidable. If it's a fruit or vegetable, don't eat it unless it's cooked or you can peel it. Don't eat foods that are lukewarm, especially meat and dairy. Drink bottled water or water that you purify. Avoid ice. Unless you're in North America or Europe, steer clear of anything coming out of a well or a tap.

Many people will expand these guidelines in an attempt to preserve GI health. Even if you are exceptionally careful, however, you may still fall victim to traveler's diarrhea and you should be prepared to deal with it.

Before you leave, go to a travel clinic for a consultation and create an arsenal of the following items:

Traveler's Diarrhea Arsenal
Traveler's Diarrhea Arsenal

Oral rehydration salts, Travelers diarrhea can be miserable, but dehydration is really its only threat (unless you are seeing blood in your stool). You lose a lot of fluids when you have diarrhea and you can't just replenish them by drinking water alone. Oral rehydration salts are typically a combination of sodium and potassium chloride (salts) with glucose (sugar), both ingredients being necessary to effectively absorb water. You can find them at travel clinics, pharmacies and most camping/outdoor recreation stores. If you run out of them on the road, try to find a Gatorade-like energy drink or powder. If you can't find that, put a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of sugar into a glass of water.

Pepto-Bismol, Will not get rid of the diarrhea, but will ease stomach and intestinal discomfort.

Imodium AD, " Controls the symptoms of diarrhea." What they mean to say is that it temporarily holds the diarrhea in your body. In other words, the destructive bacteria is still in your gut wreaking havoc.

Antibiotic, Depending on where you're going, you will most likely be prescribed Ciprofloxacin. It will be your most potent weapon. Cipro is an antibiotic (the same used to treat anthrax poisoning in fact) that is akin to an atomic bomb. It will destroy everything in your system, good (as in beneficial bacteria in your gut) and bad.

When traveler's diarrhea strikes, follow these steps:

1) At the onset of diarrhea, look at your stool. If there is blood, get yourself to a clinic. If you can't get to a clinic, start taking antibiotics immediately.

2) Take note of additional symptoms. I once had a brutal bout of diarrhea and it was accompanied by an atrocious fever. Turns out I had Malaria. If you have other symptoms (especially a fever), go to a clinic.

3) Begin rehydrating (with the rehydration salts) like its your job.

4) Try to avoid eating for one day. After a day, start eating BRAT foods (bananas, rice, apple sauce (unsweetened), plain toast).

5) The diarrhea may last several days. If possible, clear your schedule and just focus on rest, rehydration, and going to the bathroom.

6) Go to the bathroom as often as you need to do. Holding it in will only make the diarrhea last longer.

7) If you absolutely must do something absurd like take a 12-hour bus ride, bust out the Imodium and Pepto-Bismol. You must understand though, when you get off that bus, there will be hell to pay.

8) Did I mention rest and rehydrate?

9) If the diarrhea persists past two days without improving start taking the antibiotic.

10) If the diarrhea does not improve within a day of taking the antibiotic, go to a clinic.

Ideally, you will not encounter travelers diarrhea on your trip. Depending on where you are traveling, however, there is a good chance you will. These tips are designed to ease the misery and to restore your humanity as quickly as possible.

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About the Author: Phil Paoletta is taking a break from teaching middle school in Washington, DC. He is currently traveling West Africa indefinitely, collecting and making music along the way. You can follow along with him at http://philintheblank.net.

Friday Flashback: Madrid

An artist sells his paintings outside the Prado.
An artist sells his paintings outside the Prado.

Spain's capital of Madrid was my last stop on a whirlwind trip through western Europe.

The Prado (museum) houses a large number of masterpieces, and I recognized quite a few from my days of studying art history in college. 

It's now one of my favorite museums, along with the Musee d'Orsay in Paris (impressionists) and the National Gallery of Art's East wing (modern) in Washington, DC.

My couchsurfing host also took me out to the popular La Latina nightlife area my last night.

Getaways by Robert Verdi

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of joining fashion and travel writers and editors at a Robert Verdi Twitter Party.

It was unlike anything I've ever been to: the apartment was chic and decorated with beach, as well as exotic accents.

There were platters of sliced vegetables, bread, meats, and cheeses.

Bacardi Torched Cherries were served generously as men and women sat on smartphones updating their Twitter accounts by the minute.


Before long, the real fun began, as Robert sat fabulously at the front of the room and introduced the best in products and services for every traveler-- creative, stylish, luxe, and coastal, amongst others.

The selection was above and beyond what I've become accustomed to, a.k.a. there was no speak of hostels.

That's not to say, however, that I couldn't relate. The travel they spoke of reminded me of family vacations and the kind of trips I hoped to be able to take one day.

Along the way, I also learned a few invaluable tips from experts like how to spruce up a limited clothing selection, scarves, or when booking flights, try midnight, when traffic is low, or early morning when systems reset.

I also walked away with quite a few valuable getaway items, including a face moisturizer with sunscreen, luggage tags, a bathing suit, and one of Lonely Planet's freshest new guides, New England Trips.

As Robert Reed explained, the series provides unique itineraries on exciting trips across the United States and, in this case, specifically within the New England region.

Each page of this comprehensive guide features insiders tips and expert advice on how to get to the heart of historical, modern America.

There are iconic trips, regional music playlists, a green index, and even pet-friendly listings.

For many, like myself, it is perfect for a weekend escape and reveals a lot of gems within my local area.

If you happen to live in the northeast or plan on visiting soon and are in the market for a quick travel thrill, please leave a comment below about what makes your hometown special.

One winner will be randomly chosen to win a Lonely Planet New England Trips guide of their own in two weeks!

Update: Congratulations to Two Backpackers! Enjoy and have multiple great trips.

Colombian Models at Fashion Week in Medellin

Every July, Colombian models descend on Medellin, which hosts Colombia's annual fashion week, Colombiamoda.

Billed as one of the biggest fashion events in South America, the three-day show is an opportunity for local and international designers to share their latest collections, both in a public expo-center setting by day, and on the runways at night.

On the first day, I headed over to Plaza Mayor with Dave to catch a glimpse of the Colombian models, and snap a few photos.

Entry to the show cost 80,000 COP, or about $40 USD, and our badges stated that we were "International Buyers." It was a fun day.

Models at Fashion Week in Medellin, Colombia
Swimsuit models! These girls rocked and were fun to photograph. Every time we walked past them, they struck a pose for us.
Colombian model wearing tie-dye.
The first model of the day that I shot. I awarded her as the winner for the best smile!
An Orbis Ring flash highlights this woman's eyes.
I used an Orbis Ring flash to get this photo effect. I love it because it makes the eyes pop and gives a soft shadow around the body. Voted her for best eyes! Go figure on that one huh!
A Colombian woman in white lingerie.
Lingerie model that was about 6'2" (189cm) tall! I voted her the sexiest model of the show.
Seated model at Colombiamoda in Medellin.
We did an interview with her for the "Faces Series" ...more to come on that! Voted her as the "Girl Next Door!"
Female Colombian model
A model that we talked with for 15min. Voted her as the most approachable model of the day.
A woman wearing paint and sequins.
She is wearing a painted-on shirt. Took me an hour to get this photo because the line around her was crazy the whole time. Voted as "Least Shy" model of the day!
Male models
Yes, something for you ladies too. But the ratio of female-to-male models was about 15-1.
Women wearing street clothes
Street clothes models!  Voted them the "Please tell me they are single and looking" award.

.           Models at the Fashion Show Medellin, Colombia Models at the Fashion Show Medellin, Colombia Models at the Fashion Show Medellin, Colombia

Asking For Directions... The Rule of 3

Getting lost and traveling go hand in hand and everyone who ventures out into the unknown has experienced asking for directions from a total stranger who barely (if at all) speaks your language. You would assume the local you are asking knows their way around, and you heed their advice which leads you in... the completely wrong direction!

You trusted their advice and after 20 minutes of wandering around, you wondered if they had an evil motive and were trying to get you lost on purpose, or simply made a huge mistake. This is where the RULE OF 3 comes into play.

While backpacking in Mexico, everyone in the hostel soon realized that they had been given the wrong directions numerous times, and in order to save a little sanity, they would need to ask multiple people for the same directions. The actual number differs by country, but the rule in Mexico is the rule of 3, and sometimes 5.

Hitchhiking in Mexico
Hitchhiking in Mexico

Here is an example of how the process works:

  1. Venture out with a destination in mind.
  2. Ask one of the first people you see who looks helpful.
  3. Wander one block in the direction they pointed.
  4. Find someone else to ask for directions.
  5. If the answer was the same as the first, continue one more block that direction. If it was different, head one block in the direction the second local pointed in.
  6. Ask one more friendly stranger how to get where you are going, then stand for a second and ponder all three sets of directions.
  7. Take a general average and head that way or choose the one person you felt was most confident and trust them.

TIP: When there is a language barrier, be sure to know the translation for the following words: left, right, straight, and blocks. These will get you closer to your point of interest by making sure you aren't totally screwing up.

When all three sets of directions don't seem right, head towards a more trustworthy source of information such as a tourist info center, hotel concierge, detailed map, or just give in and pay the taxi. Chances are you are headed somewhere none of the locals ever go.

Lost and Out of Gas
Lost and Out of Gas

TIP: Walk one block (and maybe two) between asking locals simply to be polite. It would seem very rude to ask someone for directions and then immediately ask the next person on the road showing that you obviously don't trust the first person.

The lesson to learn is that most people are over-generous to lost travelers and want to help in any way they can. If you ask someone for directions in Mexico and they don't know the correct way, they will not tell you they don't know but simply give you the best guess they have.

Well thanks, but no thanks. I would have been better off with a simple "no". People's generosity has led me astray numerous times which is why I now usually will stretch the rule to a "sometimes 5."

6 Indisputable Reasons to Teach English Abroad

Teaching English in China
Teaching English in China (Photo: Rozel09)

Going traveling, backpacking, whatever you want to call it, it is a rite of passage for young westerners hailing everywhere from Los Angeles to London.

But is it the best way to experience another culture, or do you spend weeks flitting from place to place with little to show for it but snapshots and kitsch souvenirs?

If you want to experience another culture, I reckon it's time to ditch your backpack and grab your TEFL certificate.

Here's why:

1. Spending time with people just like you? That isn't experiencing another culture!

Ah, hostels, the spiritual home of the backpacker.

Great for cheap accommodation, but is spending all your time with other backpackers who are just like you making the most of your time abroad?

Hell, you could have just stayed home!

Opt to teach abroad, and your working life will be spent surrounded by locals, both students, and other staff.

Great for getting under the skin of the country's culture.

2. You'll be paid to be there.

Unless you've got a bulging bank balance, spending any length of time in a country is out of the reach of most travelers.

That means quick hops here and there, only seeing the don't miss' sights that guidebooks rave about.

With TEFL, you'll be getting paid to be in a country for anything from six to 12 months, which means you can experience everything a country has to offer (not just the selected extras) and not feel like you have to cram it into too short a time.

3. You'll get to know the people whose country you're visiting.

While it's easy to pass through a country and have nothing more than a few brief exchanges with waiters and taxi drivers, teaching abroad forces you to get to know the people you're teaching, working with, and even living with.

Sometimes cultural differences can be a bit of a challenge, but you didn't fly halfway around the world to have everything run as it does back home!

Before you know it, you'll be mastering local drinking games, cracking jokes with your boss, and making friends with the old lady who lives in the apartment next to yours.

4. You're already qualified to do it!

If you're a native English speaker, you're already qualified to teach English abroad.

Yes, you might need to do a TEFL course to get your hands on the best jobs and not make a total mess of your time in the classroom, but you don't need any previous teaching experience or the ability to speak another language.

5. Don't just take snapshots, be in the picture yourself.

Go to any major tourist attraction, and you'll see backpackers snapping away, trying to peer into an alien culture.

Want to know the best way to get to know the place you're visiting?

Stop hiding behind your camera and dive in feet first, get to know people and you'll soon find that you're not on the outside looking in, you're in the picture yourself.

6. You'll get the lowdown on the coolest stuff in town.

Have you ever read a guidebook for your hometown?

Flick to the bar and restaurant section, and I bet the cool bar you and your friends go to on a Friday night isn't in there.

By the time that book hit the shelves, it was already out of date.

That's why working abroad is so great, because you'll make friends with so many locals and long-term expats, you'll know exactly where's good to go on the weekend and it won't be yet another dodgy tourist bar.

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About the Author: Honor Baldry works for TEFL course provider i-to-i. She ditched her backpack to teach English in China and reckons it's the best way to travel. To find out how to start teaching abroad yourself, download a free copy of TEFL Uncovered: How to Teach Your Way Abroad with TEFL!

5 Ways To Get a Real Feel of Puerto Rico

Although Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, it boasts a rich culture and history of its own. Its culture is a strong mix of Spanish, African, and native Caribbean influences.

San Juan, Puerto Rico (photo: Amy Irizarry)
San Juan (photo: Amy Irizarry)

So, how can you experience this blend to the fullest? Here are five ways to absorb some of these influences and get a "real" feel for Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rico Travel

1. Try some "criolla" food

The traditional cuisine of Puerto Rico, known as comida criolla, is a blend of Spanish and native Caribbean influences. Most traditional dishes include rice and beans, arroz con habichuelas. Add to this some plantains, and you have a typical daily meal.

For dessert, try the flan, a custard made with flavors such as cheese, coconut, or vanilla. Or the tembleque, a local bread pudding with a coconut flavor.

If you genuinely want to experience the full Puerto Rican experience, visit a lechonera. These casual roadside eateries are mainly located outside the metropolitan area, so a little bit of travel is required, but it's worth it.

They specialize in roasted pork, known as lechon, a must-have at any Puerto Rican holiday dinner. The best lechoneras are in Guavate, just 30 minutes away from San Juan.

2. Take salsa dancing lessons

Dave from Go Backpacking with his salsa teacher

Salsa dancing, without any doubt, is a big part of Puerto Rican culture. So why not learn the basics? In San Juan, you will find many places that offer free salsa lessons.

Some of these include The Courtyard by Marriott (Thursday at 8 pm), The Latin Roots (every day at 7 pm), Oyster Bar (Sunday at 8 pm), and others.

Now, where to dance? The best places to dance salsa are Rumba in Old San Juan and Nuyorican Cafe, where the band plays till 4 am on the weekends.

If you want to experiment outside the tourist area, head to the bars along Roosevelt Avenue and Avenida Universidad, which are approximately 20 minutes away from Old San Juan.

Most students love hanging out and dancing at El Ocho de Blanco in Avenida Universidad, next to the most prominent college campus on the island. If you think salsa is too complicated for you, try dancing the local reggaeton (made hugely popular by Daddy Yankee, Don Omar, among others).

Don't worry. There's no science to it. Just take a partner, get close to each other, and start rubbing your bodies together in a rhythmic motion. Sorry, I have no better description without going into crass details. But you get the point. Be sensual; that's keeping with the spirit of reggaeton dancing.

3. Explore the different regions

Get out of the metropolitan area. Each part of the island offers a diverse range of attractions, including Puerto Rico boat rentals, ecological adventures, beach retreats, 19th-century cultural displays, and more.

The island is small enough to drive across from east to west in under three hours. Explore the mountainous regions and climb Toro Negro (the tallest point, 4,930 ft. tall).

Visit El Yunque Rainforest and swim in its rivers; locals adore them. Visit the sister islands of Vieques and Culebra. They have some of the best beaches in Puerto Rico, and most of them are secluded.

If you need professional Spanish translation services, click here to check out Magma Translation.

4. Look back at its history

Old San Juan (photo: Stephanie Kepacki)
Old San Juan (photo: Stephanie Kepacki)

Old San Juan has some of the oldest buildings on the island. Walk through its narrow cobblestone streets and feel the solid Spanish Colonial influence, a hallmark of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Four centuries of history are surrounded by the massive fortress walls that once protected this city from foreign invasion.

Visit El Morro and San Cristobal Fort, two dramatic fortresses classified as National Historic Sites.

5. Feel the beat of the night

Without a doubt, the metropolitan area is your place to go if you want to experience the nightlife. There are many ways locals enjoy spending the night, from dancing and playing pool to betting at casinos and simply relaxing at a bar or lounge.

If you're looking for a "chic" night at a lounge, go to Condado. For a great dance club experience, head to Old San Juan and Santurce. And for a good time in a bar, go to Isla Verde.

If you're unsure which one to choose, don't worry; all four counties are located next to each other. You can easily hop from one place to the other and enjoy the night in your preferred way.

Friday Flashback: Barcelona!

Barcelona beach in January
Barcelona beach in January

Visiting Europe on my 'round the world trip, I was trying to catch up with some popular spots I missed my first time around back in 1998.  Switzerland was one, and Spain was the other.

Barcelona kept me busy with Gaudi's buildings and Picasso's art.  The beaches were almost empty, however I found plenty of people at the FC Barcelona soccer match I attended.

The Colorful Streets of Cartagena: Part II

This is Part II of the photo essay about street life in Cartagena, Colombia.  To see Part I, click here.  David Lee took all the photos from Part I and I (Troy Floyd) took all the photos for Part II.  It is interesting to see these photos from two people who visited the same place, that took different shots of the city.

Styles vary hugely with photographers and this is a good example of why it's always best to have a different perspective on one thing.  What David might have seen, I didn't, and vice versa.

I hope you enjoy the below photos... let us know which one you liked best and why!

Woman selling fruit along the streets. You can find her every day at the Plaza de San Diego.
Woman selling fruit along the streets. You can find her every day at the Plaza de San Diego.

The sunsets in Cartagena are some of the best in all of Colombia. Add on top of this the striking architecture and you almost feel like your in Havana, Cuba!

Man sitting on the street selling BBQ sticks for $1 USD each. Cartagena doesn't have much street food (compared to say Thailand) but at the end of the night, it's a refreshing treat to get something quick and easy outside the bar when nothing else is open at 2am.
Man sitting on the street selling BBQ sticks for $1 USD each. Cartagena doesn't have much street food (compared to say Thailand) but at the end of the night, it's a refreshing treat to get something quick and easy outside the bar when nothing else is open at 2am.

Lamps and arches are always present in the architecture of Cartagena. The colonial style makes one feel like they are in a time warp!

The Cathedral of Cartagena is a highlight at night for taking photos, but don't pay for the outrageously priced $5 USD tour. There is not much to see on the inside, and better photos can be taken from the outside for FREE! Besides, is it right for churches to charge that kind of money, as it's a religious place of worship?
The Cathedral of Cartagena is a highlight at night for taking photos, but don't pay for the outrageously priced $5 USD tour. There is not much to see on the inside, and better photos can be taken from the outside for FREE! Besides, is it right for churches to charge that kind of money, as it's a religious place of worship?

Art work is all over the streets in the Old Town. Mostly copied stuff from Colombia's most famous artist, Fernando Botero. His signature style is paintings and sculptures of very "large" people.
Art work is all over the streets in the Old Town. Mostly copied stuff from Colombia's most famous artist, Fernando Botero. His signature style is paintings and sculptures of very "large" people.

You can take a romantic carriage ride through the Old Town. If nothing else, it's great just to grab a few bottles of wine and ride around the city getting tanked up and seeing all the beautiful architecture!

"Plaza Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo Square). The square is home to the sculpture Mujer Reclinada ("Reclining Woman"), a gift from the renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero." ~ Wikipedia. This is a popular place for tourists to visit because it's Cartagena's most famous plaza. It's filled with many nice restaurants, but it is all way overpriced. My recommendation is to have one drink and go around the corner where drinks are ½ the price.
"Plaza Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo Square). The square is home to the sculpture Mujer Reclinada ("Reclining Woman"), a gift from the renowned Colombian artist Fernando Botero." ~ Wikipedia. This is a popular place for tourists to visit because it's Cartagena's most famous plaza. It's filled with many nice restaurants, but it is all way overpriced. My recommendation is to have one drink and go around the corner where drinks are ½ the price.

I never get tired of seeing the windows and doors in the Old Town of Cartagena.
I never get tired of seeing the windows and doors in the Old Town of Cartagena.

Dave took this same picture in the first photo essay. He saw the most unusual drug store ever and I saw a perfect photo summing up Cartagena's Old Town. Exact same building, but as you can see, it is very different then David's picture. Just goes to show you why it's best to have different perspectives from more then one person.
Dave took this same picture in the first photo essay. He saw the most unusual drug store ever and I saw a perfect photo summing up Cartagena's Old Town. Exact same building, but as you can see, it is very different then David's picture. Just goes to show you why it's best to have different perspectives from more then one person.

Let's Just Be (Facebook) Friends: Getting Dumped by Backpacking Buddies

This is a guest post by Caroline Eubanks. If you'd like a guest post on Go Backpacking, please read more here.

It's the same old story- You arrive at a hostel. You look around at the other travelers, hoping for some piece of familiarity that you can use as a catalyst for conversation. A sports jersey or an accent or fondness for a brand of beer. " You like Chiang beer too? What a coincidence!" And so it begins. You don't know it yet, but you will eventually spend hours with these people, wandering the streets of your destination, acting as if you have known each other for years.

At the beach with the Brits (Split)
At the beach with the Brits (Split)

In this true backpacker formula, my British roommates and I were best friends within two hours of meeting. We bonded and laughed for hours in the air-conditioned dorm rooms over the linguistic differences between the Brits and Americans, such as " khaki pants" and " aluminum."

In those two days, my new friends and I went to a traditional Croatian dinner, splurged on cherries from the fruit stand downstairs (or rather, I splurged for all three of us), watched Jackass 2 and other terrible examples of American entertainment, rated girls as " deal" or " no deal" as we walked by, and went beer for beer on a pub crawl. They reminded me of the boys I had grown up with in the States: cocky, flirtatious, witty and often vulgar. It was a perfect travel friendship because I didn't have to wander around alone and they got to harmlessly flirt with an American girl they would never see again. They even added me on Facebook, so that had to count for something, right?

But to my surprise, by the time I got home they had already deleted me. Why would they do this?, I wondered. Didn't we share some laughs over our two days in Split? And then a better question: Why did I care? The truth is that although we seemed like friends in Croatia, it never would have made us friends in real life. They wrote me off that morning I checked out of the hostel (one of them more so because I turned him down, but still). I would never see them again, but I felt like this made our fun two days meaningless. And as naïve as it sounds, I wasn't used to the people I meet on the road not liking me. At least not openly. It felt like getting rejected in high school.

Riva, Split
Riva, Split

I should have been grateful to them. It made me more realistic about the people you meet while traveling. Sometimes you meet amazing friends who you click with, keep in touch with and live to travel another day with. I have some great ones of these like Tamar, who I met in Washington DC in 2005 and who has visited me in Atlanta almost every year since. Other people were the product of timing, convenience, and most likely alcohol, that you will probably never see again. Obviously these British boys fit into this category. I could overanalyze it as much as I wanted to, but you know which people are meant to stay in your life. Both kinds of people have a place in your adventures. And at the very least, they certainly make the stories more interesting.

"”"”

About the Author: Caroline Eubanks is a freelance writer based in Atlanta, Georgia who has covered everything from fashion shows to sugar daddy bars and aerial yoga to drag shows in her career. Since writing gigs don't pay all the bills, she has worked as a gift wrapper, label sewer, taco seller, and errand runner. Her preferred outlet for writing is her blog, Caroline in the City, where she documents her adventures around the world as a city girl with the occasional taste for the country. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

Seafood Al Fresco at La Cevicheria

On my first visit to Cartagena in early 2009, I invited my new Peruvian friends to join me for lunch at La Cevicheria, the restaurant featured in Anthony Bourdain's "Colombia" episode of No Reservations.

Despite an address I found on the Travel Channel website and the company of two fluent Spanish speakers, we could not locate the restaurant on our own or by asking around.

Outside La Cevicheria in Cartagena's upscale San Diego neighborhood.
Outside La Cevicheria in Cartagena's upscale San Diego neighborhood.

Fast forward to mid-2010, and I have all the time in the world to the right this tragic foodie wrong. 

Seeing how I'd already eaten at Brasarepa, the Envigado restaurant featured in the same episode, it was now a matter of pride that I tracked down La Cevicheria too.

This time, I got the address from the comfort of my hostel room, thanks to my laptop and solid Wi-Fi signal. Then, I identified the location via Google Maps on my BlackBerry Curve. 

The restaurant is in the upscale San Diego neighborhood at the north end of old Cartagena. It was surprisingly easy to walk there from the iconic clock tower.

La Cevicheria is situated on a quiet little cobblestone side street. Three tables, taking up the combined width of a single parking space, are set up for al fresco dining each afternoon. 

I took a seat at the middle table and began to decipher the menu, which was all in Spanish. A photo of Anthony Bourdain and the owner was featured on the back.

Peruvian ceviche of fish and shrimp, served with plantains and salad.
Peruvian ceviche of fish and shrimp served with plantains and salad.

A Thai-American woman named Tania, and her Colombian boyfriend Daniel, who had seated themselves inside before I had arrived, came out to keep me company. 

They were doctors working in the USA and spoke perfect English so that I could enjoy their conversation and the fresh seafood.

I went with the Peruvian ceviche of fish and shrimp, served alongside crispy plantains smothered in guacamole, a fresh salad of lime and tomato, and a small piece of corn on the cob. 

The presentation showed attention to detail, and I dug right in. 

I've had a bite of ceviche here and there before; however, this was the first time I ordered it as a main course.

The shrimp and whitefish were coated in lime-based juice.

As with sushi, I find eating raw seafood to be a unique experience that is often more about the pretty presentations and textures of the food than the actual flavors.

The portion size could easily have fed 2-3 people. 

The price was about $20 based on the current exchange rate; including a glass of fresh orange juice, tip, and tax, the total bill was $27.

Mexican ceviche with shrimp, avocado, corn, and sour cream served in BBQ sauce with tortilla chips.
Mexican ceviche with shrimp, avocado, corn, and sour cream served in BBQ sauce with tortilla chips.

Satiated by my first authentic ceviche experience, I uploaded photos back at the hostel, only to find that my new 4-gigabyte SD card wasn't working. 

As I wasn't about to write of this meal without photos (the photo of the Peruvian dish was taken with my BlackBerry), I deemed it necessary to return a few days later.

I took the same middle table outside. However, dark clouds were rolling over old Cartagena this time, and I knew my time outdoors would be limited. 

I ordered the Mexican ceviche with shrimp, avocado, corn, and sour cream, served in a thick and tangy barbecue sauce accompanied by tortilla chips.

The dish might not look like much from the photo; however, there must've been 100 shrimp. 

As a light rain began to fall, I held steady at my outdoor table, loading the tortillas with the sauce-coated shrimp. 

Again, the serving size could satisfy 2-3 people, and despite my best efforts, I left a lot of good shrimp behind that rainy afternoon.

I love avocado, and it's a big part of why I chose the Mexican-style ceviche, so I was surprised that the dish was so rich in shrimp and severely lacking in avocado. 

The small pieces were about the size of the corn kernels, meaning the sauce and shrimp greatly overshadowed them.

Rice with coconut.
Rice with coconut.

I also ordered a regional favorite, arroz con coco (rice with coconut). It, too, was delicious, and I only wish I'd eaten more of it while I was in Cartagena.

The small kitchen at La Cevicheria.
The small kitchen at La Cevicheria.

Eventually, the rain turned from a light sprinkle to a torrential downpour, and I escaped to La Cevicheria's interior dining area, which included an open kitchen and three small tables. 

A framed photo of Anthony Bourdain and the owner hung on the wall, along with various seafood-oriented decorations.

I asked for more chips, as the shrimp ceviche was too rich to eat without them.

They weren't quite what I expected, tasting more like a light version of Doritos than a Mexican-style corn tortilla chip.

And I waited, and waited, for the rain to let up. By then, fully satisfied, I dreamt of sleeping off my second divine ceviche experience.

PS - I like to make jokes about Colombia's food being the one downside to living here; however, after enjoying several meals at La Cevicheria, I realized the cuisine is much more varied than the typical set lunches of soup, chicken/meat, and salads.

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La Cevicheria - Calle Stuart #7 - 14, San Diego, Cartagena (in the north of the Old City, Calle 39, between Carrera 7 + 8.  Landline phone: 5-664-5255. Cellular: 315-655-4120.

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Medellin Travel Guide

My 138-page, all-original Medellín Travel Guide is available for Kindle and PDF.

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The Beaches, Ruins, and Jungles of Honduras

People travel all over the world on their backpacking trips, and Central America is often on the list of places to go.

Mexico draws in people for its array of beaches, Guatemala pulls in those looking for an insight into its Mayan past, and Costa Rica offers jungles and pristine beaches side by side.

But Honduras is rarely mentioned and often used as a simple stopover as backpackers work their way down through the continent.

The beaches of Roatan.
The beaches of Roatan.

This is a significant oversight. For all its recent political difficulties, Honduras has many stunning places to visit, most of which are yet to be tainted too heavily by the tourist development brush.

There's plenty to keep the backpacker entertained in this troubled country, from beautiful beach destinations to historical monuments.

The Bay Islands

The Bay Islands are usually atop the traveler's list, with Utila and Roatan the most popular of the three.

Utila is the place to go for your scuba diving exploits but offers little else outside of happy hour. 

If it's the paradise island experience you're after, then you should head to Roatan.

It's beginning to get more developed as American tourists become increasingly aware of its idyllic setting, but that is for a good reason.

Stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and incredible marine life make it the perfect beach getaway.

West End is where backpackers flock to, and this is where most of the hostel accommodation is found, though it's worth venturing to the eastern end of the island at some point to soak up some of the Garifuna culture.

This is characterized by brightly colored local dress, the beating drums, maracas, and outrageous, hip-shaking 'punta' dancing.

You won't believe how high the Garifuna girls can shake it!

Horseback riding around Copan Ruinas.
Horseback riding around Copan Ruinas.

Copan Ruinas

Outside of the Bay Islands, Copan Ruinas is another common destination.

Home to Mayan ruins worthy of a day's exploration, its real beauty is in the surroundings; rolling hills that play host to coffee plantations and hot springs, amongst others.

There's plenty to explore, and the best way to do it is on horseback.

I'd never ridden a horse before I visited, but before I knew it, I was knee-deep in a gushing river and galloping along the banks!

It's a real adventure and one I'd recommend to any traveler who has stopped in to see the ruins.

The town itself is beautiful as well; a labyrinth of cobbled streets and pristine monuments, you could sit out for hours on end with the best coffee you've ever tasted, watching the world and its horse go by.

On the 'cayuco' in La Mosquitia.
On the 'cayuco' in La Mosquitia.

The Eastern Jungles

But the real diamond in the rough is a road rarely traveled by tourists' feet.

The eastern part of the country comprises near-total jungle: the area known as "˜La Mosquitia' ("˜the mosquito').

This is a place that is borderline inaccessible and has no roads. All transport is via the interlinking rivers flowing between the trees.

To get there, you have to fly in a small biplane that touches down on a strip of grass hidden in the foliage.

On my visit, there were kids playing football on the runway as we came into land!

From there, you jump on a "cayuco" (a dugout canoe) and head into the jungle on the river, not knowing when you'll next step on dry land. 

As you chug along the vast waters, you can see monkeys jumping from tree to tree, hear birds singing, and very occasionally see a crocodile's eye sparkle in the undergrowth of the riverbank.

After what seems like an endless amount of time, you come across villages dotted along the rivers, populated by people who haven't been outside the jungle walls.

They know the 30 people who live in the huts around them and have seen a few other faces in their lives.

Depending on the length of your trip, you'll stay in various villages along the way and get further into the jungle, getting to know the people and feeling more like an explorer every day.

It's an enriching place, and I doubt that I'll ever visit anywhere as remote again.

So there you have it, Honduras should be on your list! And that's just the half of it.

There are great towns sprinkled across the country, National Parks that will take your breath away ("˜La Tigra' to name but one), and beach towns littered along the north coast.

Find the adventurer in you and give Honduras a go.

Friday Flashback: Bordeaux, France

French pastries
French pastries

While I did fly into the Bordeaux airport, and eat a few meals in the city, most of my time was spent farther south in the region around Arcachon Bay.

I was staying with Sebastien and Magali, a French couple I met on the way to a small eco-hostel called Bulungula.  The moment they suggested a visit to Bordeaux, I knew I'd be seeing them again.  And it didn't hurt that I later found out Magali was working at a pastry shop.

The Colorful Streets of Cartagena

Cartagena's charming colonial architecture helped earn it UNESCO World Heritage status.

The old city is filled with enough character and colorful facades to keep any photographer engaged day after day.

View down a typical street in walled area of Cartagena.
View down a typical street in walled area of Cartagena.

Weathered and worn down buildings await renovation throughout the city.
Weathered and worn down buildings await renovation throughout the city.

Not your average corner drugstore, is it?
Not your average corner drugstore, is it?

Balconies and hanging lamps are common on the building facades in the old city center.
Balconies and hanging lamps are common on the building facades in the old city center.

Juicy watermelon for $0.50 a cup is a refreshing treat in the mid-day heat.
Juicy watermelon for $0.50 a cup is a refreshing treat in the mid-day heat.

I was struck by the vibrance of the matching green doors of this hotel and salsa club as I was walking down Calle de Media Luna.
I was struck by the vibrance of the matching green doors of this hotel and salsa club as I was walking down Calle de Media Luna.

The Plaza de los Coches is centrally located within the walled city. This is the best place to find horse and carriages to hire for a romantic ride through the city.
The Plaza de los Coches is centrally located within the walled city. This is the best place to find horse and carriages to hire for a romantic ride through the city.

The Church of San Roque in Getsemani.
The Church of San Roque in Getsemani.

Colombia's Love Affair with Arepas

Arepas con queso from street vendors are the best!
Arepas con queso from street vendors are the best!

Arepas are a staple of the Colombian diet, and their ubiquity ensures most visitors to the country will try them either from street vendors, small shops, or as part of larger restaurant meals.

According to Wikipedia, "The arepa is a flat, unleavened patty made of cornmeal which can be grilled, baked, or fried. The characteristics of the arepa vary from region to region: It may vary by color, flavor, size, thickness, garniture, and also the food it may be stuffed with."

Arepa con queso (with cheese, topped with sweetened condensed milk) in Medellin.
Arepa con queso (with cheese, topped with sweetened condensed milk) in Medellin.

An arepa with cheese from a street vendor is the one Colombian comfort food I missed the most while living back in the USA.  Usually priced at 1,500 Colombian Pesos, or about $0.80, they are heavy enough to fill me up for an entire lunch or dinner.

Inside the street arepas is a gooey, melted cheese that adds a richness plain arepas often served alongside lunches in restaurants are severely lacking.

Arepa con huevos y queso (eggs and cheese), with fresh mango juice.
Arepa con huevos y queso (eggs and cheese), with fresh mango juice.

While in Cartagena, I frequented a small juice and arepa shop called El Jugo on La Calle de Media Luna in the Getsemani neighborhood (where you find all the hostels).  Open only a few months, they offered 3 common arepa options.

Arepas served with fried eggs (and optionally, cheese) are a popular breakfast option.  Add salt at a minimum, or a little salsa if you want to spice it up.

It may look bland, however my favorite combo is Arepa con pollo y queso (chicken and cheese).
It may look bland, however my favorite combo is Arepa con pollo y queso (chicken and cheese).

The arepas with chicken at El Jugo were divine.  It was the first time I'd tried this combination, and it made for a satisfying lunch.  Though the color may make it look a little bland, there was plenty of flavor from the salsa added to the chicken.  And, of course, there was melted cheese with every bite.

Arepa con carne y queso (meat and cheese).
Arepa con carne y queso (meat and cheese).

An aprea with meat was my least favorite, though to be clear, I'm much more of a chicken fanatic.  Also flavorful, and bedded on melted cheese, it left me satisfied for an afternoon as well.

In Colombian homes, arepas can be cooked any number of ways.  Last year, while I was living with Martin from Germany, he would allow chocolate to melt atop his arepas as he cooked them on the stove.  Our Colombian roommate, Maira, would slice up a hot dog or chorizo and add them to hers.

Arepas are akin to a blank canvas, much like crepes in France. Their deliciousness is only limited by one's imagination.

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Medellin Travel GuideMy 138-page, all-original Medellín Travel Guide is now available for Kindle and PDF.

 

 

 

 

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10 Secret Items to Pack as a Woman for Your Next Trip

One of the most exciting parts of any trip is packing. What do you wear? What shoes do you bring? Did you remember to pack socks?

For short-term trips, what to pack is directly related to how many days you will be gone.

For longer trips, like backpacking around the world, packing becomes more of an art.

Olga Garcia shares her secret items to pack on any trip.

There are dozens of lists like, What to Pack on Travel Independent that help both men and women determine the essentials for a backpacking trip.

All of their suggestions are practical and necessary, but they are missing the hidden essentials for women.

After wearing the same clothes for months, wearing flats so you can carry your backpack around, and moving from one hostel to another, you start to feel like you are losing that spark of femininity that you had before you left.

Don't let that air of grace disappear.

The following ten secret items to pack as a woman on your next trip are tried and true, straight from a female around-the-world backpacker.

Learn why they are essential to bring and where to get them.

What to Pack

1. Pair of black gaucho style pants

Why? The great thing about gaucho-style pants is that they are versatile, comfortable, and can be dressed up or down.

Another great benefit to this type of pant is the ability to layer with it.

If you are traveling to somewhere cold first and then warm, you can wear the same pair of pants in both places by simply adding or removing a layer.

Where to buy them? Try places like Bebe, Victoria's Secret, or Express.

They may be a little more expensive, but the quality is better and, therefore, will last for your whole backpacking trip.

Match your gaucho-style pants with bamboo underwear for women. You'll feel more comfortable because bamboo fabric absorbs more sweat than cotton, keeping your intimate part dry, and odor-free.

2. One pair of shoes that make you feel sexy

Why? When you are backpacking and making friends along the way, the inclination to go out is enormous.

If you only have practical shoes, then you are selling yourself short of feeling sexy.

As women, we know what flats, heels, boots, etc., make us feel beautiful.

Pack just one of those so that you are prepared to be a backpacking vixen when the opportunity arises.

Also, pack a couple of pairs of socks in your luggage, especially when the weather in your intended destination is cold.

A foot cream or gel and ankle or foot padding also come in handy to relieve sore feet after long walks.

Where to buy them? In my experience, Nine West, Steve Madden, and surprisingly Pay Less have great comfortable shoes at affordable prices.

Wedges are an excellent solution for a little bit of height coupled with cuteness that are pretty easy to walk in (especially if you are in a big city where everyone walks to go out, like Valencia).

3. One tank top and one tube top that has pizzazz

Why? The best thing about being a female backpacker is that our clothing is small and compact.

When choosing your yearlong wardrobe, be sure to pack these two essential pieces.

Try to choose relatively simple tops with an extra something like subtle stripes, polka dots, or lace.

The reason for this is layering. You can transform one outfit into three by simply putting a cute top underneath it.

Your wardrobe will feel like it lasts longer, and you can spruce up any outfit to feel sexier.

Build a more authentic wardrobe by purchasing locally-made shirts or tops. Doing so lends your support to small business owners.

Where to buy them? No need to go expensive here. Try places like Forever 21, H&M, Target, or Wet Seal to get inexpensive tops that will transform you.

4. Bare essential makeup (lipstick, mascara, powder, blush)

Why? You don't have to bring the MAC makeup counter with you.

Give yourself a treat every once and a while with a bit of makeup makeover: a little mascara and some lipstick et voila, new you.

Using easy-to-apply makeup can make your trip more convenient while allowing you to stay fresh and beautiful in your photos.

Of course, you don't want to miss mingling with locals and travelers alike in your best look. Meeting new people and making new friends on your next trip can make for an unforgettable adventure.

Where to buy them? Remember, don't splurge on your makeup. Drug store brands like L'Oreal, Covergirl, Revlon, etc. will do the job well and won't break your wallet.

Besides, if you lose something or it breaks, your loss is minor.

5. One headband and a set of bobby pins

Why? Remember to take care of your hair. Although not a top priority when thinking of what to pack, your hair is your signature when traveling.

A headband and bobby pins can give you different looks without much effort.

Whether you want to make your hairstyle with braids or to prevent your hair from touching your eyes or your skin, bobby pins and a headband can help make your trip more hassle-free.

Both headbands and bobby pins can give you different looks without much effort.

Where to buy them? Stick with buying hair accessories from drugstores. And throw in some extra hair ties. You never know when you might need one.

A girl can never have enough hair ties!

6. One scarf

Why? Scarves are versatile. You can use them as an accessory, to pull your hair back, or as a shawl of sorts.

Try simple patterns or solid colors for a more significant combination potential.

Where to buy them? Try places like Forever 21, H&M, Target, or Wet Seal.

7. One pair of leggings

Why? Two words here: layering & comfort. Leggings can help you create different outfits and keep you warm when an unexpected trip to somewhere cold comes along.

Plus, they are comfortable for hanging out at your hostel.

Where to buy them? Brands like Poof and Free People have fabulous leggings that are super comfortable.

8. Jewelry (3 necklaces & 3 pairs of earrings)

Why? Don't forget these! A pair of earrings will always rescue an outfit from blahdom. Jewelry can get heavy, so make sure to choose your pieces wisely.

Remember only to bring jewelry that you wouldn't mind losing, just in case.

9. Emergency items: Sewing kit, Cramp medicine, Pimple cream

Why? These are your female staples. Trust me. You will thank yourself for bringing them along.

10. " Homesick" Calling Card

Why? Using Skype and internet cafes is great, but what happens when you need to talk to one of your girlfriends right after meeting the man of your dreams and computers are nowhere to be found?

Plenty of places still have payphones, and having a "homesick" calling card for those kinds of gossipy emergencies will help you feel connected to home.

Friday Flashback: Winter in Switzerland

The Swiss Alps (from left): Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau
The Swiss Alps (from left): Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau

My week in Switzerland wasn't cheap, however I managed to save some money by couchsurfing with a friend in Bern, and another person in Geneva.  In Interlaken, I stayed at one of Europe's most popular hostels, Balmer's, but with snow on the ground, and a chill in the air, the guests were few and the atmosphere was non-existent.

Train rides through snow-covered valleys, and plenty of Swiss chocolate made the journey worthwhile.  Hopefully I'll have the opportunity to return when it's a little warmer.

Gyokusendo Cave: Going Down in Okinawa, Japan

A rainy day or dark-cloudy skies won't keep Ryukyu Mike cooped up in his house waiting for the sunshine to burst out all over.

On a recent rainy Sunday in June, he grabbed his backpack and camera and headed to the southern part of Okinawa and visited Gyokusendo Cave, the second largest series of caves in Japan.

The cave meanders through 5 kilometers (roughly 3 miles) of limestone far below the steaming earth above.

Visitors have access to 890 meters of well-lighted and safety-railed passageways.

Signs warn you not to shout or blow whistles, probably so as not to disturb some of the fragile stalactites (sharp stone icicles) numbering in the thousands that could come crashing down if you did.

Steel walkways meander through the cave.
Steel walkways meander through the cave.

Just a few meters from the entrance, you feel as if you've entered an air-conditioned room.

Stainless steel stairs and walkways make the journey through the cavern convenient but, they can also be slippery in spots where moisture has accumulated.

Special lighting illuminates the stalactites.
Special lighting illuminates the stalactites.

Stalactites grow at a rate of 1mm per year and some of the ones seen in the cave are several meters long.

Gyokusendo cave is estimated to be over 300,000 years old.

Motion detectors control some of the lighting as you travel through the cave and throw an assortment of colors on certain key attractions.

In 1974 one of the classic Godzilla movies (Godzilla vs Mecha Godzilla) was filmed here.
In 1974 one of the classic Godzilla movies (Godzilla vs Mecha Godzilla) was filmed here.

In parts of the cave stalagmite take on monstrous shapes and you can let your imagination decide what they might look like.

One of several streams flowing through the caves.
One of several streams flowing through the caves.

Small streams and waterfalls are seen at a couple of locations as you travel through the maze.

The one in this photo is at about the halfway point.

There's nothing quite as soothing as the sound of a brook and waterfall inside a cave.

This would be a choice spot to camp overnight, if such activities were permitted, the babbling brook and sounds of miniature waterfalls echo through the cave.

Underwater lighting
Underwater lighting

Underwater blue lights and external flood lamps accentuate the small sandbars formed by a stream flowing through the caverns in this scene.

Leaving this scene the walkway leads back up gentle slopes and stairways towards the exit.

Whether it's raining or the sun is shining, after spending an hour underground, the first thing you'll notice as you hit daylight above is the heat and humidity.

Mother Nature's air conditioning system has been left behind you.

Reportedly discovered in 1967 by a research group from a mainland Japan University, this treasure of a cave was probably well known to local Okinawans many years before it became the major tourist attraction it is today.

It appears the designers and planners did a fine job of balancing the need for tourism and concern for the wildlife inhabitants of the caves.

There are displays of some fish, reptiles, bugs, bats and other cave-dwelling critters along the walkways but in the labyrinth of uncharted areas the tourists never get to see, there are a few miles of safe haven for critters to do, whatever it is cave-dwellers like to do while the intruders meander through their living room.

The cave is open for visits between 9 AM and 6:30 PM daily.

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About the Photographer: Michael Lynch is a photographer and freelance writer living in Okinawa, Japan and he contributes to dozens of online sources. For more information, visit his website: www.mikesryukyugallery.com

Confessions of an Introverted Traveler

A few years ago, back when I was working in an office with too little natural light, I had a memorable conversation with my company's HR person.

It had to do with the way different people cultivate their personal energy. Her message was simple, and I've respected it ever since.

Extroverts gain their energy from being with other people, and likely feel something is missing during times when they're alone.

Natural introverts, such as myself, gain their energy in the absence of other people, and then proceed to expend it while attending social events or hanging out with friends/partners.

As a result of that conversation, I learned to allow myself time alone without feeling guilty about it. 

It can be a slippery slope, however, as I've used this concept in the past to be anti-social at times (especially in the year running up to my RTW trip).

Entrance to Hostal San Blas in Getsemani.
Entrance to Hostal San Blas in Getsemani.

Upon arriving in Cartagena, I visited several hostels in search of one with the best price for a private room. 

In the past, when given the choice between a sub-$10 dorm bed, and a private room, I'd choose the dorm bed 99% of the time. 

I might spend my money on good restaurant meals while traveling, however, I was always willing to take a cheap bed in an effort to balance out such pleasures.

My priorities were clearly different on this trip.

I'd flown to Colombia 36 hours after a long weekend of hardcore networking and socializing at TBEX.  It was immensely fun, though draining.

I was as excited to feel a sense of independence again, as I was to visit Cartagena.

In 2009, I spent the first half of the year couchsurfing in Europe, living in a party hostel in Medellin, and sharing a 3-bedroom apartment in Envigado. 

Returning home to the USA, I lived with my parents for 11 months. 

Trips to Los Angeles and New York City involved staying as a guest with someone, and Rwanda was a whirlwind of overnight flights and hotel rooms, albeit comfortable ones.

Room 201 at Hotel Villa Colonial
Room 201 at Hotel Villa Colonial

Cartagena became my chance to decompress not just from the socializing at TBEX, I realized, but from more than a year of being dependent on others for a roof over my head.

I'm grateful for those who've hosted me (in particular my parents!), but I've missed the feeling of having my own space, no matter how small or minimally decorated.

So after staying in two hostels with noisy common areas (in the form of open-air courtyards), I settled into room 201 at the Hotel Villa Colonial. 

All of the rooms featured fans, air-conditioning, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms, however it was Villa Colonial's small balcony that turned room 201 into a makeshift apartment to me.

Ironically, it's the balcony that makes the room far noisier then the ones at the other two hostels combined.

View from my balcony at Villa Colonial.
View from my balcony at Villa Colonial.

Every morning, I awake to the sounds of men walking along the street below, shouting "pescado, pescado" (fish) or a variety of fresh fruits, "mango, papaya!"

I brush the sleep from my eyes, turn the fan up a notch, and unlock the balcony doors. 

Swinging them open, my corner room is flooded with fresh air, sunlight, and the sounds of life in the neighborhood. 

In the afternoons, vallenato music reverberates from a bar down the narrow street.

Dogs bark, residents chat, teenagers practice their skateboard tricks, and every Sunday night is an impromptu block party as people hang out in the streets, drinking beers and enjoying the remnants of their weekend before going back to school or work the next day.

The inner streets of Getsemani aren't as clean and pretty as old Cartagena; there are homeless people laying out, drug-dealing prostitutes on one corner in the evenings, and some scrawny looking dogs and cats, however I've yet to feel threatened. 

There is a police presence once the sun goes down, and the density of hostels in such a small radius means the locals are used to foreigners, and vice versa.

All of the hostels in Getsemani feature interior courtyards like this one at Hotel Villa Colonial.
All of the hostels in Getsemani feature interior courtyards like this one at Hotel Villa Colonial.

In my prior travels, I would always look for hostels with social common areas in order to meet other travelers.

After two weeks in my private room, I'm hooked on the ability to casually observe local life via the sounds of the street below, while writing, tweeting, watching World Cup matches from bed, and generally enjoying my own thoughts and company.

At times, I've felt self-indulgent or lazy. Shouldn't I be out exploring? 

Going to the beautiful Playa Blanca (beach) via boat, or slathering myself in mud at a nearby volcano? 

I'm not a guidebook writer, nor am I "on assignment" for someone else, so the answer I've come up with is a resounding "no."

And to me, therein lies the beauty and freedom afforded to travel bloggers.

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Medellin Travel GuideMy 138-page, all-original Medellín Travel Guide is now available for Kindle and PDF.

 

 

 

 

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My First 24 Hours in Cartagena

Puerta del Reloj, or the clock tower, is the main entrance to the old walled city of Cartagena.

The Aires flight touched down at Cartagena's airport as scheduled, a few minutes shy of noon.  Stepping off the plane, and onto the tarmac, the strong sun and heavy tropical humidity were already inducing my body to sweat profusely.

One of the two baggage carousels was already surrounded by passengers who had arrived a few minutes earlier on an Avianca flight.  I staked out a spot at the empty carousel.  As much as I've traveled the last few years, I always await my checked backpack with baited breath.  Only after seeing the red, black, and gray bag with 101 straps make its appearance, can I breathe easy.

I grabbed my pack, walked outside, and picked up a ticket with a set rate for a taxi to the Getsemani neighborhood where the hostels are located.  The taxi driver had the air-conditioning on full blast as we drove south; the Caribbean Sea brushing up against the road to my right.  The mid-day traffic was heavy. Despite the heat and noise, it felt wonderful to be back in Cartagena after an all-too-short visit 16 months prior.

I looked at private rooms in a few hostels within a block or two of each other before settling into the one with the lowest rate ($16/night).  Tired from the overnight flight, I tinkered around online thanks to the free wi-fi, and called it an early night.

View toward Iglesia de San Pedro Claver from Plaza de la Aduana.
View toward Iglesia de San Pedro Claver from Plaza de la Aduana.

The next morning, I awoke well rested with a desire to walk around old Cartagena before the sun rose too high in the sky.  Figuring I'd be gone for an hour or two at most, I put on a pair of jeans and skipped the sunscreen.  I had a fashionable new hat from New York City to ensure the top of my head didn't burn up under the Equatorial sun.

To experience the charm of the old, walled Cartagena, one simply needs to walk the streets, admiring the Colonial architecture while mixing with the locals, and maybe munching on some fresh fruit.

I left the hostel around 9 AM, passing a bar I remember drinking at last year.  The area was strangely familiar.  My body was walking through the streets in the present, while my mind replayed scenes from February 2009.

When I walked through the clock tower, which acts as an entrance to the old city, I immediately saw Tu Candela, another bar I'd been to before.  More flashbacks, however this time I was traveling on my own, with no pressing deadlines to worry about.

Walking along Las Murallas (the walls) that suround and protect Cartagena's historic center.
Walking along Las Murallas (the walls) that suround and protect Cartagena's historic center.

I made my way to Las Murallas, the thick stone walls dating back to the 16th century, that encircle the old city.  Rusty canons face the sea, as though waiting for ghost ships from the past to lay siege today.

It was 9:30 AM, and I was already sweltering under the sun, when I came upon a foreign girl talking to a lone Colombian guy selling drinks.

As I got closer, he called out in my direction, "agua...cerveza!"

I walked closer,  tempted by the thought of a cold drink, which would also act as the perfect icebreaker to meet the girl.  I looked at her, asking if she wanted a cerveza.  She nodded yes, and I paid the guy for two Aguilas.

Sipping our cold beers, we walked further along the wall, engaged in standard backpacker dialogue.  Linda hailed from Germany, and was wrapping up a 3-month trip to Colombia.

As our beers ran dry, we descended the wall, and sought shade in the Parque de Bolivar (note: every Colombian city has a park named after Senor Bolivar, which usually includes a statue of him on a horse).  Lunch consisted of arepas con queso, chicken empanadas, and tintos from street vendors.

View of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas
View of Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas

Walking Las Murallas was one experience I missed last year, and visiting the Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas was another.  An imposing stone fortress built upon a hill, it promised great views of the city, and a terrific photo-op with a giant yellow, blue, and red Colombian flag.   In a country without a universally recognizable tourist attraction, the giant flag was the best symbol of the country I could come up with.

Linda and I walked out of the old city, through Getsemani, and over to the old castle.  The entrance fee was a stiff $8, however we both agreed it'd be worth it.  Views from atop the castle are sweeping, and while you can see the sea, they skyline isn't particularly picturesque.

I would still recommend visitors pony up the money, as wandering through the underground tunnels in near darkness, and hanging out up there is a quiet diversion from the bustling streets below.

Linda (Germany) and I under the fort's giant Colombian flag.
Linda (Germany) and I under the fort's giant Colombian flag.

I kept Linda company over a few more beers back at my hostel, before she had to catch an overnight bus to her next destination.  She reminded me (yet again) of how often I meet people when I least expect it.

By the time Linda left, and I had a chance to look in the mirror, I realized every uncovered part of my body was the color of boiled lobster.

Welcome to Cartagena, gringo!

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Medellin Travel GuideMy 138-page, all-original Medellín Travel Guide is now available for Kindle and PDF.

 

 

 

 

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Friday Flashback: Celebrating New Year's Eve in Paris

Laura leads us through the Parisian streets.
Laura leads us through the Parisian streets.

Grey, dreary, cold and wet.  That sums up Paris in the final days of 2008.

On the bright side, the city has lots of lights up for the holidays, and it presented the polar opposite experience I'd first had when visiting Paris in the peak of Summer ten years earlier.  And I was staying with a local, Laura, who I'd met on a train in India months earlier.

South Africa - FIFA World Cup Backpacking Tourist Fever

South Africa is not typically considered one of the hot spots for backpackers or tourists, but the country has a lot to offer travelers.

With the World Cup buzz echoing across the planet, South Africa is center stage. As a keen traveler, you may be wondering if South Africa is somewhere for you to visit and how World Cup visitors are finding this uncommon tourist destination.

A few years back, I actually visited South Africa and had a brilliant time there, touring from Johannesburg to Cape Town over several weeks.

Looking out over Cape Town from Table Mountain.
Looking out over Cape Town from Table Mountain.

World Cup to Boost Tourism?

South Africa is a country that has struggled with a tough image of high crime, which unfortunately is well deserved.

A few minutes in a major South African city and the signs of high crime are given away by the high security throughout.

Private armed guards outside hostels and hotels and tall walls topped with spikes are a common sight.

A friend of mine who emigrated from South Africa told me that some cars are booby-trapped with flame throwers. I don't know if that is true, but it would not surprise me.

With South Africa in the spotlight, the government has been working hard to minimize crime and look after tourists in the hope of extending the countries tourist industry.

That does not stop the rarer horror stories from getting attention in the news.

The South African government invested roughly R40bn (about $5 billion). Still, it has been estimated that the tourist injection of cash would only mount up to 8.8 billion rands ($1.1 billion), according to a new report from Grant Thornton consultancy.

However, it is not uncommon for any country to lose money from hosting a sporting event, but that has not stopped the local government from being optimistic.

Due to the recession and possibly a fear of crime, local experts have lowered their initial expectations of visitors from 450,000 to 300,000 over the four-week period.

Word of mouth from World Cup tourists will be a powerful factor in deciding whether South Africa's tourism will increase soon.

World Cup fever hits South Africa.
World Cup fever hits South Africa.

World Cup Ecstatic Fever

As is often the case with a country with a tough history of struggles, the pride, and energy of its people heightens.

South Africa is keen to be seen as a brilliant nation, and if you want to get a feel for that in Hollywood style, I recommend you watch the film Invictus.

As the most popular sport on Earth reaches its pinnacle World Cup conclusion, the energy in South Africa right now is both tense, joyous, and ecstatic. If you want to catch the final match online, you can watch it here.

With a few hundred thousand foreigners hitting South Africa during the World Cup matches, many will be experiencing South Africa for the first time. Many tourist services, from hotels to tours, are bustling, probably busier than ever.

There's no surprise the sex trade is also seeing a boom. 160,000 condoms have been distributed to Cape Town alone during the World Cup period by Cape Town Tourism. AIDS is still a serious problem in South Africa, so if you do visit, be careful.

It is certainly a great time to visit South Africa, but if you have not visited during the World Cup and your taste buds have been beckoned by the South African flavor, let me give you a quick overview...

South Africa Backpacking

Hostels: Hostels in South Africa are pretty cheap, with most being between $10-$20 per night. Although a little bit more expensive than they were a few years ago, the strong dollar is definitely helping keep prices down.

Overall, the hostels are of excellent quality, especially outside the cities, and some can be a unique experience.

In one hostel, wild monkeys would occasionally be found running across the wooden beams in the roof of your room!

Travel: There's only one way to tour around South Africa for backpackers, and that is the Baz Bus. The price is higher than other local transport, but it is made up in flexibility and experience.

Get off at any of the many Baz Bus stops throughout South Africa, and get back on and continue your journey when you are ready.

The best part of this is you will find yourself making friends along the way, and given the flexibility of traveling on the Baz Bus, you'll likely find yourself in a big friendly group of backpackers.

With a bus picking you up at the door of the hostel, and so many attractive gifts available along the way, you will want to make sure you don't get tempted to accidentally go overweight with your luggage.

I suggest this little travel weighing scale to know how much you can fit in your case for your onward flight.

Consider taking a lightweight shrinkable towel, too, as many hostels provide towels now, and your own big towel can take up a lot of space and weight.

Crime: This is another reason to use the Baz Bus, it is safer, and you'll find yourself befriended in a large group, and there is safety in numbers.

If you walk around, especially in the cities, I recommend walking around in groups of three or more or at least two, never alone.

Speak to the hostel owners to find out where it is safe and where it is not and follow the normal safety procedures like not showing off expensive belongings and never carrying too much money.

Wear shoes when you can instead of flip-flops. You will want the option to run if you have to. Crime is high in South Africa, but most tourists never run into trouble. Just be careful and be aware.

Hippo in St Lucia Estuary.
Hippo in St Lucia Estuary.

Destinations: South Africa has so much to offer, and every place brings a new experience, and more often than not, incredible natural views.

Inside the cities, there is an abundance of tours highlighting the interesting but troubled history of the country and guided tours of slums and orphanages for those who want to see something more real.

Table Mountain in Cape Town is a must-see and will only take about an hour to climb with breathtaking views at the top.

You also shouldn't visit South Africa without experiencing a Safari. You can expect to see Crocodiles, Giraffes, Lions, Hippos, and much more on any Safari tour around Johannesburg.

I recommended stopping off at Swaziland, a small country within South Africa on the Baz Bus route.

It is a developing country, and the people have a life expectancy of only about 40 years, but they were the happiest and welcoming people I have ever met.

St. Lucia (not to be confused with the island St. Lucia) is a hidden gem in South Africa. Not too far from the beach, close to an estuary abundant with wildlife from hippos to zebras, and a generally chilled out and relaxed atmosphere among the locals, this was one of my favorite stops.

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About the Author: Chris Tew runs a blog network and spends much of his time traveling the world. You can catch his thoughts on location independent living at BankableTravel.com or follow him on Twitter.

Seven Steps to a Solo Road Trip

One night I was listening to the Lost Girls speak about their travel experiences, and nearly 200 hours later, I already had my own solo 6-week cross-country road trip planned.

Well, for the most part.

In the past few weeks, I've heard all of it, from the "you're absolutely insane!" to the "I'm so jealous, you're so brave."

I get it. It does sound pretty daring to most people, but to this well-traveled community, I'm sure it just seems like another exciting set of plans.

Here are the tools that helped me come up with mine:

Into the great wide open
Into the great wide open

1. The Calendar

For some, there may not be any time restraints.

In my case, however, I have a tiny little thing known as a bank account that won't keep me on the road forever.

So, I glanced ahead at mid-October to my alma mater's Homecoming weekend, made that the end date, and then worked my way back to the beginning of September.

2. The Atlas

I first narrowed down a little more than a baker's dozen of cities that I wholeheartedly wanted to visit based on specific landmarks or loved one's homes.

Then, I went to the map, drew it out, and figured out the other 12 or so that I'd have to stop at for the sake of my sleep needs.

I'll have my Garmin with me, and Google Maps certainly helped as well.

I've also heard that some people may prefer to plan their entire routes along a highway, i.e., I-80 for the North, I-10 for the South, and I-80 for most of the states in between.

3. The Lodging

It's entirely too early for me to truly set my places to stay in stone (besides the houses of friends or family), but I've already joined Couchsurfing to prepare for it.

It'll be my first experience with the international hospitality network, and I couldn't be more excited!

Not only will it be economical, but it'll also allow for more friendly interactions and new friends along the way.

I cannot afford to stay in motels, and I don't have the nerve to camp by myself.

4. The Car

I probably should have made this the first on the planning checklist. Right? Ha.

Anyway, it is essential to have a vehicle that is in tip-top shape and highly recommended to have one that gets good gas mileage.

Luckily, I have both plus AAA. I don't know if my parents would let me leave town without it.

Renting a car and dropping it off at one end or the other is also a possibility for those over 26.

5. The Sustenance

Since I will be the only passenger in that car of mine, I'll want to pack some food and drinks in addition to a bag of clothes and toiletries.

I am a foodie, remember?

I'm thinking of bottled water, dry cereal, granola bars, chewing gum, and maybe even a small cooler to fill with fresh fruits and vegetables that I purchase along the way.

6. The Itinerary

I am all for leaving days up to a serendipitous chance when I have the time to do so.

On this trip, I am not spending more than 48 hours in any place other than Syracuse and San Francisco, so I want to make sure that I make the most of my time in each one.

Still, I am not making my lists too strict with only one museum, two restaurants, and possibly one more "bonus" activity like hiking.

Maybe in a few years, I can come back and rent a party bus with friends from Limo Find to have a big night out.

7. Technology

My Macbook and iPhone will surely be joining me, complete with a complimentary Wifi app and GasBuddy.com home page.

As for the GPS factor, I've already mentioned my Garmin. And a camera? Check.

Although, in all honesty, I'd love to get an SLR to bring my amateur photography skills up to par with the American beauty I'll surely be seeing.

There you have it: my amateur, un-tested, completely fool-proof-less planning tips.

In my mind, there are only three genuine opportunities for this kind of adventure: post-college, mid-life career change, and retirement.

And since I'm only at square one, let's hope that the number seven has some luck to it.

Scenes from Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a modern industrial city caught up in 20th-century technology, buildings, and media. 

Clutched in a triangle of three cultures: Malay, Indian, and Chinese, the city exudes the blending of these cultures in the new versus the old.

From the amazing Batu Caves with monkeys watching the Hindu traditions to the hawker stalls on Jl Pedling with mouth-watering Chinese and Malay delicacies, and the eclectic markets of Chinatown, evidence of the mixing cultures is everywhere.

Old and new architecture in Kuala Lumpur.
Old and new architecture in Kuala Lumpur.

Rambutan (fruit) at the Chinatown market.
Rambutan (fruit) at the Chinatown market.

Preparing scallions.
Preparing scallions.

The Hindu God, Lord Murugan at Batu Caves.
The Hindu God, Lord Murugan at Batu Caves.

Drummer at Hindu temple at Batu Caves.
Drummer at Hindu temple at Batu Caves.

Petronas Towers
Petronas Towers

Clams at hawker food stalls.
Clams at hawker food stalls.

Snails at hawker food stalls.
Snails at hawker food stalls.

Street musician at Jl Pedaling.
Street musician at Jl Pedaling

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About the Photographer: Lauren Becker is a filmmaker turned travel writer who has been lucky enough to travel the world for work and fun.  She enjoys sharing her experiences through the written word, the still photograph, and moving image.  Read more at her personal website, my personal website is www.laurenbecker.net, or follow her on Twitter @filmlb.

Colombia's Aires Opens New Route: NYC to Bogota

Aires planes at the Bogota airport
Aires planes at the Bogota airport

Spirit Air was my first choice of airlines for the flight from New York City to Cartagena, if only for the cheap rates. 

When their pilots went on strike a few weeks ago, I didn't have the stomach to continue taking a "wait and see" approach.

I combed Kayak for other affordable options. The rates for Colombia's national airline, Avianca, were over $500, putting them in the same category as JetBlue (which only flies to Bogota) and other prominent international carriers. 

Then I recalled a contribution made to Medellin Living about domestic flights in Colombia.

I pulled up the Aires website and found they operated flights from New York City to various Colombian destinations via Bogota. 

At the time, I didn't know that this international route was brand new for the Colombian discount airline.

Unlike most of Spirit Air's flights, which would've cost about $260 to fly 1-way from NYC to Cartagena, including taxes and 1-checked bag (almost all of which involved long layovers at their hub in Florida), Aires' flights departed NYC at 3 AM, thereby putting me in Cartagena just before noon that same day. Perfect.

I paid the $289.20 for the 1-way ticket (including one checked bag) and breathed a sigh of relief.

Of course, Spirit's pilots settled their strike the next day, but it was too late. I was about to ride the friendly skies with Aires.

Aires plane
Aires plane

On my last night in NYC, I caught up with Olga over the phone, as we missed meeting in person that week. 

Incidentally, she is Colombian and spoke highly of Aires. Now I was curious.

A little before midnight, I left my brother's apartment in Chelsea and caught a taxi to JFK airport. 

At that hour, there was no traffic, and with the window rolled down, a cool breeze blew into the back seat.

Cab rides to and from airports are the quintessential travel experience for me. 

On the way to the airport, given you're heading to a new destination or beginning a new adventure, one's mind is filled with anticipation of the experiences that lay ahead. 

Taking a cab from an airport, upon arrival in a new city or country, you make your first observations while talking to the cab driver if you feel so inclined.

Seared in my memory are the cab rides from countless airports: Bali, Singapore, Kathmandu, Cairo.

It was at JFK, after waiting in a short line at the Aires ticket counter, that I learned my flight was only the second time the carrier had flown from NYC, and the first time was just two days prior. 

The newness of the route added to the excitement.  Not only was I getting a good deal on airfare, but I was also blazing a new path from my country to Colombia. Or something like that.

The plane was smaller than I expected, given the distance, we were covering. 

I had paid an extra $5 to sit near the very front, seat 2A.  On any other plane, it would've been the first or business class section. 

The two seats next to me were empty, so I made a vain attempt to lie down, which didn't last long because of the uncomfortable seat belt brackets poking up at my ribs.

It took about five mildly turbulent hours to reach Bogota (where, incidentally, there was free wi-fi at the airport). 

After an hour and a half on the ground, my shorter, one-hour flight to Cartagena took off.

Drinks other than water and coffee, as well as food, cost extra on both flights. The service was friendly, and I'm happy to recommend Aires as a result.

I will probably use them again for domestic flights while I'm here and a return trip to the USA, as it is not possible to book one-way tickets from Colombia to the USA on Spirit Air.

My Thoughts on #TBEX 2010

According to the calendar, it's been a week since the 2nd annual Travel Blog Exchange (TBEX) conference wrapped up in New York City, yet as I type this post, sitting on my firm double bed, under a twirling fan, listening to the street sounds of Cartagena on a sunny Sunday afternoon, it feels like a lifetime ago.

TBEX, for me, was an opportunity to meet the travelers, bloggers, writers, and editors I'd been reading and interacting with for months, if not years.  It was also a chance to reunite with many people I'd met only briefly once before.

As much as I'd like to give a shout out to everyone whose company I enjoyed, the list would be far too long.

Travel writing panel (from left): Alison Stein Wellner (freelance writer), David Farley (author), Don George (Lonely Planet), and Jim Benning (World Hum/Travel Channel)
Travel writing panel (from left): Alison Stein Wellner (freelance writer), David Farley (author), Don George (Lonely Planet), and Jim Benning (World Hum/Travel Channel)

The Panels

Trying to do justice to the art of narrative travel writing or strategies behind search engine optimization (SEO) in 55-minute panels is impossible, however there were plenty of valuable tidbits to grasp onto if one were so inclined.

In the first panel, I enjoyed hearing the likes of Don George, David Farley, and Jim Benning give nuggets of wisdom with regard to travel writing.  I'm sure that with practice, incorporating story arcs, quotes, and character development into my blog posts would get easier.  Being aware of these elements is a start.

In the second panel, my takeaway from Robert Reid of Lonely Planet was to experiment with video, even if you have no experience.  Learn as you go.

The scene outside The Central Bar at halftime during the USA v. Ghana World Cup match.
The scene outside The Central Bar at halftime during the USA v. Ghana World Cup match.

Due to the United States' strong showing in the World Cup, I missed the panels on working with Public Relations people, and Branding.  Judging from the crowd at Central Bar on the USA's weekday match, I wasn't the only one skipping work to cheer on the home team.

On the second day, during the ethics panel, it was interesting to hear how the Federal Trade Commission goes after the marketer first, not the blogger, when it comes to potential violations.  The bottom line from that panel seemed to be that all bloggers can breathe a sigh of relief.

The second day wrapped up with the panels on SEO and making money online, for which a whole day could've been devoted, and an abbreviated talk on podcasting.

My favorite talk of the weekend was given by Gary Arndt on the topic of travel porn, a term he coined to relay the reality that most people who read about a specific destination will never go there.  Instead, they enjoy the fantasy or hope that they'll one day be able to relax on a South Pacific island.

The following day, Gary was named one of Time Magazine's Top 50 bloggers of 2010.

Sean Keener (BootsnAll), Michaela Potter, and I at the BootsnAll/Eurocheapo afterparty.
Sean Keener (BootsnAll), Michaela Potter, and I at the BootsnAll/Eurocheapo afterparty.

The Parties

Kim Mance (founder of TBEX) knows her audience, so there were plenty of parties hosted by event sponsors.

The panels were informative, however for me, the parties were more important as that was when I had a chance to mix and mingle, and spend a little quality time interacting with people in person.  What a novel idea!

I'm happy to report that everyone's online personas match up well with how they are in person.  I take this as a great sign for our community -- we're a sincere bunch.  And there were a few people I hadn't talked to much online who were a lot of fun to hang out with in person.

Lunchtime (from right): Mike, Stephanie, Mike Richard, Matt, and me.
Lunchtime (from right): Mike, Stephanie, Mike Richard, Matt, and me.

TBEX 2011 in Vancouver, Canada

Next year's TBEX is being hosted in Vancouver, Canada, which seems appropriate given the strong Canadian contingent of bloggers that showed up in New York.

It's still far too early for me to commit, especially given I don't have a brother in the city who can host me, however I certainly hope to be there.

Friday Flashback: Side Trip to Holland

Cathedral in Tillburg, Holland
Cathedral in Tillburg, Holland

This week's flashback is dedicated to my friend Gela, who I first met in Nepal and then went to visit in Tillburg, Holland.  Despite January's bitter cold, I was thankful she had the time to show me around her home town.

The 4,000 Islands of Laos

In southern Laos, near the border of Cambodia, is a region along the Mekong River collectively referred to as 4,000 Islands.  As the name implies, there are thousands of little islands dotting the river.

Among the most popular for backpackers is Don Det, due to its laid back atmosphere (and electricity!).

Approaching the Mekong River for the short boat ride to Don Det (island).
Approaching the Mekong River for the short boat ride to Don Det (island).

A cold beerlao is enjoyed alongside the slow-moving Mekong waters.
A cold beerlao is enjoyed alongside the slow-moving Mekong waters.

Lap Chicken: Minced chicken is mixed with fresh herbs and served over rice.
Lap Chicken: Minced chicken is mixed with fresh herbs and served over rice.

A large waterfall rages alongside the island of Don Khone.
A large waterfall rages alongside the island of Don Khone.

Walking amongst the rice paddies of Don Det.
Walking amongst the rice paddies of Don Det.

Exploring the island of Don Khone while enjoying a brief break in the clouds.
Exploring the island of Don Khone while enjoying a brief break in the clouds.

Kids at play.
Kids at play.

School kids cross the an old bridge built by the French to connect Don Det and Don Khone (islands).
School kids cross the an old bridge built by the French to connect Don Det and Don Khone (islands).

A local boy goes for a ride.
A local boy goes for a ride.

Inexpensive accommodations line the edges of Don Det, with porches perfect for lounging around in hammocks.
Inexpensive accommodations line the edges of Don Det, with porches perfect for lounging around in hammocks.