2015, A year in review

As 2015 comes to a close I think back on all of the fun and exciting things I did, the people I met, and the fun I had with my friends all around the world. This year I traveled to three new countries, Ecuador, Singapore, and Thailand. I visited friends in Singapore, Bangkok, Jacksonville, Orlando, Chicago, Quad Cities, Cincinnati, Knoxville, New Orleans, Tampa, and Naples. Friends visited me on the Big Island from Orlando and San Antonio. I met new friends from all over the world this year in the Everglades, San Francisco, Chicago, Thailand, and Ecuador. It has been an exciting year for travel and got two more continents checked off my list, now I have Antarctica left to visit.

On a very sad note, I lost my best friend and dog brother, Duke in May. After 14 and a half years living in Kentucky and Hawaii his life ended where he loved to be, in Paradise. I miss that boy every day. May you rest in peace my furry, ornery, barking, loving, biting, brother. I will think of you every day.

Last year’s resolution was made in my car driving back from Kona Airport at 11:50 pm on New Year's Eve, after I didn’t make it on the flight to LAX that would start my trip in San Francisco. My resolution was to travel more in 2015, and I know I have accomplished that. This year I will continue the resolution, and will add to serve others. I will volunteer, workaway, cook, clean, develop, and learn from others who accept my help.

Here is a list of websites that I have found helpful to help others while traveling:

workaway.info
helpx.com
findacrew.net
wwoof.net
idealist.info
couchsurfing.com

I hope you have enjoyed your 2015 and hope you make 2016 an adventurous one. Life is short and the world is wide.

Delta Sky Club

Oh, how I love the Delta Sky Club. Recently I got an American Express Platinum card which gives me access to the lounge anywhere there is a DSC, or SkyTeam Lounge in places like CDG, AMS, or LHR. My trip from KOA to FLL was the first time I got to try this fancy club out, and boy was I excited!

I flew on the inaugural flight from KOA to SEA on an empty stomach, so my first plan of action was to go to the Sky Club freshen up and get a bite to eat. Luckily my gate was next to the club, and headed for the elevator to the sky... club. I was greeted by 3 lovely Delta agents, passed them my Amex and my boarding pass from KOA to SEA with my seat number on it, they explained how it all works and I was in! By the way, you must have a seat assignment on your boarding pass to gain access to the club. A seat request card will not allow you in, from what I have heard.

The bathroom was clean and spacious with a shower as well. I washed up and headed for the breakfast bar. There were bagels, muffins, toast, fresh fruit, oatmeal, and cereal to eat and all you can drink coffee, hot chocolate, orange juice, water, and even alcoholic beverages. I was on a tight schedule so I grabbed a bagel with cream cheese an orange juice and hot chocolate and headed back to my gate for my flight to ATL. The service was pleasant, the seating area was spacious, had lots of comfortable seats, many plugs to charge the gadgets, and great high speed wifi.

Arriving in ATL I went from Terminal A to B and found a Sky Club adjacent to my gate to FLL. There I was greeted by a nice gentleman, he scanned my boarding pass from SEA to ATL and my AMEX and I was granted access. They really make you feel like you are important. I used the clean restroom (and didn't have to wait), grabbed a soup for the road and went to my gate to catch my flight to FLL. The DSC in ATL, Terminal B was very crowded at 3:30pm and a seat was hard to find. The bar was full, but the broccoli cheese soup was tasty and hot. They also had pasta salad, arugula salad and some rolls. A much healthier option than the Terminal food options.

Needless to say, I am proud to have access to this very prestigious and elite club and I don't have to buy drinks or food at the airport anymore.

Click here to visit Delta's website to see all of the Delta and Partner Lounges.
image credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Delta_SkyClub_Logo.svg

Upcoming South Florida Trip

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I am so excited to explore a part of Florida I have wanted to see for the longest time, South Florida. I lived in Central Florida for many years and didn't get the chance to see the Florida Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or the Keys.

My mom and I are starting in Fort Lauderdale visiting with a friend from Hawaii hopefully stand up paddle boarding, then we head to Key Largo for some beach time and snorkeling. In Key Largo we will be camping for two nights and hopefully making some friends with the locals to get a ride on their boat, here's to hoping! After two days in Key Largo exploring the upper and mid keys we head to Key West, the southern most point of the continental United States. We will overnight at Key West Hostel for one night to explore Duval Street, Hemingway's house, and hopefully find a cigar bar to relax at. Post Key West we head back north to the Florida Everglades where we will spend Christmas Eve Eve (my favorite holiday of the season), Christmas Eve and Christmas day at Everglades Hostel and Tours in Homestead, FL. The hostel offers half and full day kayak tours of the Everglades paddling through saw grass prairies and mangrove tunnels, so we are plan on taking advantage of that. December 26, we head to Miami to explore Little Havana and eat some delicious Cuban food that Anthony Bourdain told me about, tour the Art Deco District and soak up some more sun on South Beach. We'll crash at an Air Bnb for the night, then the next morning I'll drop her off at the airport to fly home to Hawaii. I continue on with my South Florida tour.

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The plan right now is to head west from Miami on SR41 through Big Cypress Natural Preserve and end up in Naples for a visit with two friends for a few days, maybe stand up paddle board there too. After a fun visit in Naples, I head to St. Petersburg to hang out with an old colleague from my hotel days to ring in the new year with George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic. What happens in between is a mystery, but I know it will be a blast.

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Is there anywhere that I must see or do while I am on this trip? I'll post reviews and how-to's on my adventure around South Florida, so stay tuned!

Thanksgiving Traditions #Thankful

I didn't grow up with any holiday traditions that we carry on with today, but when my family does get together for thanksgiving I have to have a few things for dinner. Mashed potatoes, that my great grandmother taught me how to make, and turkey. We used to have macaroni and cheese, but I haven't been able to recreate my great grandmother's recipe. This year we are sharing turkey, duck confit and gizzards, corn casserole from a recipe my friend Nicole gave me, mashed potatoes and a salad.
I have done so many things for thanksgiving, last year I hopped on a flight from Kona to Paris because thanksgiving is usually the best day for me to travel, and it was, I got first class on every leg.

Other years I have spent with friends where they have their own traditions and menu. For Mariah's family dinner there are no mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese. They serve a potato cheese casserole, it was good, but not my mashed potatoes. Her family sits around the living room going through the Black Friday adds peeping their strategy for the big shopping day.
When I was working for disney world my large group of friends had dinner at 11:00 pm because that's when we all got off work. The people who got out early were the cooks and the late workers brought something from Publix or a pre-prepared dish. I think this was one of my favorite thanksgivings.

Thanksgiving day, is one day that we tell our Facebook followers and friends what we are thankful for. I wish this would happen more often, but in the spirit of trending #thankful on Facebook and Twitter here is what I am thankful for: I am thankful for my freedom, and not in the political sense. I am free to make my own decisions without judgment from my loved ones, I am free to go to places that most people never dream of traveling to, I am free to be who I am. I am thankful for my parents that have given me the best life I could possibly have by equipping me with great education and experiences, confidence and a beautiful home in paradise. I am thankful for my friends who love me more than my dog and love my dog more than me. I am thankful for Griffon, the best dog friend I have, he gives the best hugs!!

Happy Thanksgiving from me to you and hope you enjoy your turkey, tofurkey, or take-out dinner.

What thanksgiving traditions do you have? Do you travel, go out for dinner, watch movies, or eat potato and cheese casserole?

Cincinnati, Ohio

I grew up and lived in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati for about 28 years. I definitely didn't take advantage of all the fun and cool things to do. In the past 5 years Cincinnati has transformed itself into a wonderful place to visit and spend a long weekend going to a music festival, Reds game, or discovering all of the craft breweries it is now known for.

How to get to downtown from the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
If you are traveling to the downtown area don't rent a car. The 2X TANK bus is reliable and safe. It picks you up on the baggage claim floor and takes 20-30 minutes to get downtown for only $2! The last bus leaves the airport at 12:23 pm for those late arrivals.

Once downtown most hotels are within walking distance from the 4 downtown stops, just ask your driver and they are more than willing to tell you what stop to get off at. If you are staying in Covington, just across the river from Cincinnati, you will want to get off at the Covington Transit Center and take another bus or shuttle from there. Check out tankbus.org for schedules and maps.

Where to stay
Cincinnati hasn't caught onto the hostel thing yet nor does it have a big couch surfing community. AirBnb is a really great option, you can get an entire house for around $145, or a private room for around $45, depending on the time of year. Covington and Newport, Kentucky are great options for lodging, it has good public transportation called Southbank Shuttle.

If you want to stay in a hotel there are so many options downtown:
Westin, Hyatt, Millennium, Renaissance, Cincinnatian, Residence Inn, 21C Museum hotel

What to do

MMM Beer
Cincinnati has a rich history of beer, they even have underground tunnels in Over The Rhine (OTR) where they would roll barrels of beer from the brewery to the bars. I highly recommend taking the Ultimate Underground tour provided by American Legacy Tours which will explore the newly discovered tunnels vital to Cincinnati’s brewery heritage. Tours start mid-March, last 90min to 2 hours, cost $30 per person. They also offer other historical tours of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky americanlegacytours.com
 

Braxton Brewing Company
Located in Covington, KY this brewery got a humble star. With a love for brewing Braxton has become an entrepreneurial obsession. Melding technology and tradition, at Braxton ideas are born and fermented. The tap room has a great ambiance, Projection TVs for all of the sporting events, and not to mention Storm on NITRO. If you see Richard Dube (the head brew-master) tell him Elly sent you! image credit

Christian Moerlein Lager House is located on The Banks, the newest area added to downtown, between the Reds and Bengals stadiums. Currently serving 20 beers on tap, nine of which are the rotating selection of the Christian Moerlein Beers, brewed on site. Not only is their beer amazing, but their food is delicious too! This is a great place for views of NKY skyline.
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Ei8ht Ball Brewery is located just a short trolley ride from downtown, in Bellview, Kentucky. Attached to Party Source, a locals beer, wine, and spirits heaven, Ei8ht Ball is tucked away in the back of the store. This is a locals hangout, no frills here just 42 good beers on tap. image credit

Rheingeist
Rhinegeist, translates to "Ghost of the Rhine" and refers to our place in the historic Over-the-Rhine Brewery District in Cincinnati. A great addition to the OTR scene, this brewery, that now serves cider, is a great place to meet up with friends, play some cornhole or watch the game. As soon as the streetcar starts, it will drop you off right at the front door!
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Cincinnati Beer Week
So what is Cincinnati Beer Week? The mission statement says it’s “… a grassroots movement aiming to educate, inspire and celebrate well-crafted beer in a welcoming environment.” For the eight days of the “week”, bars, restaurants and stores all over the Greater Cincinnati become Official Cincinnati Beer Week Venues and hold special events like beer tastings, beer-pairing dinners, and brewery nights. The drinking starts June 19, 2016.

Sports
When you're in the birthplace of professional baseball, you know you're in a place where sports are special. Cincinnati has some world renowned teams, college and professional. Cincinnati Reds, Bengals, Cyclones, University of Cincinnati Bearcats and Xavier Musketeers make up the sports plethora of the Queen City.

Flying Pig Parathon
The Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon is a 42.195 km race run the first Sunday of every May. There is a 5K race, a 10K race, and a half-marathon in addition to the traditional marathon race. Added in 2014, there is a 2-mile "Flying Fur," event for dogs and humans to participate in, so bring the pupps!

Cincinnati Festivals
It seems like there is a festival happening every month in the Queen City. Whatever you fancy, there is something for you.
Paddlefest, WEBN Fireworks, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, Maifest, Cincinnati Music Festival, Bunburry Music Festival

Off the beaten path
American Sign Museum
The American Sign Museum is the premier institution for preserving historic signs and promoting the contributions the sign industry makes to commerce, culture, and the American landscape. Stroll down memory lane when signage was neon, big and flashy. This is something completely out of the ordinary. Take an Uber here, as public transportation isn't the best in this area. Open Wednesday through Sunday; $15 adult admission.
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Krohn Conservatory
Located in Eden Park, it contains more than 3,500 plant species from all over the world. The conservatory changes throughout the year with special exhibits and programs, including the ever-popular International Butterfly Show where thousands of butterflies are free to fly throughout the Krohn Conservatory showroom in a specially-themed garden. Permanent exhibits include the rainforest waterfall and exotic plants in the Palm, Tropical, Desert and Orchid houses as well. Check website for hours; $7 adult admission, $4 children.
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Spring Grove Cemetery
You're thinking "Why do I want to walk around a cemetery?" and I can understand why you may think that, but from the cemetery’s beginning (1845), the grounds have been used to as an arboretum for the study of plants. The attention to the grounds of the cemetery continues today with over 1200 species and 19 State Champion trees. Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum is located at 4521 Spring Grove Avenue, take an Uber to get here. Admission is free. image credit

What's the better seat in the plane? Aisle, middle or window?

As a frequent flyer I often contemplate what the best seat is on the airplane, other than First Class obviously. I have been seated in all three seats, and as a standby flyer I often don't have a choice I am just happy to be on the airplane. Recently, on a flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles, I was seated in 26A. I made my way all the way to the back of the plane and attempted to place my backpack under the seat in front of me. It wouldn't fit! Airplane seats are getting closer together and smaller, as we humans are getting taller and larger. So, this made me think. What is the best seat on the airplane? My analysis follows...

The aisle seat you can get up and down as you please, to go to the bathroom, get your items from the storage bins above you and bolt for the door quicker if you have a short connection. However, when the drink and snack cart goes by and your knee is in the aisle, you now have a bruised kneecap. Also, if you are sleeping and the middle or window seat needs to get up to pee or walk around they will wake you up. When people walk up and down the aisle they hold onto the back of the aisle seats pulling your hair, moving the seat back while balancing themselves, even though the fasten seat belt sign is on and you shouldn't be out of your seat.

The middle seat is all bad. I don't know one good thing about this seat. It shouldn't exist. Unless you need some distance between you and the other passenger in your row and this seat is not occupied. Now, if you are cursed with the middle seat, you have full rein over the arm rests! That's the middle seat rule! Learn it, live it, love it!

The window seat is the sleepers dream. Cuddle up next to the window, a little bit more legroom and snooze. The window seat is like its own little bubble. You get control over the window shade, down to sleep, up to enjoy the views out. The only bad thing I see about the window seat is if you have to get up out of your seat at all you have to disturb the others next to you.

Now the best case scenario is to get an isle to yourself. Two, three, or even four seats just for you to spread out and lye down... If you fit. The better case scenario is to get a first class lye down seat, but sometimes that just doesn't happen.

What seat so you think is better? aisle, middle or window?

Non-Rev > Positive Seat

I am so lucky, blessed, fortunate, that I have access to inexpensive flights to so many places around the world. I fly standby, which means if there is an open seat on the plane I will get it, based on seniority. So, if there isn't a seat available for me, I have to stay where I am or find another route to get where I am going next. I have purchased plane tickets before and it is such a hassle to know if I'm getting a good deal, making sure my dates are correct, and committing. Other than it being inexpensive there are so many more perks.

I can change my plans at any time, without a change fee. I scheduled myself to go to Ecuador for two weeks and explore Quito and Banos. I enjoyed Quito and a bit of Banos, but I struggled with the language and it was raining, I just wasn't feeling it. Instead of being "stuck" there I booked a standby ticket to my next destination and left that evening. I didn't have to pay a change fee to switch the date of my ticket or wait there until my already scheduled departure date.

First Class... if available. I once flew First Class from Kona, Hawaii to Paris France, stopping in LAX and JFK. I chose to fly over Thanksgiving, missing our family dinner, but it was worth it! You get a full, delicious meal most of the time, complimentary adult beverages, and the best sundae! And most importantly on most international flights you get a lie flat seat, making sleeping so much more comfortable. Ohh and the service is significantly better.

I can check 2 bags weighing up to 50lbs each to my destination. So, my mom found a urinal on the mainland, for my dad, and wanted to put it in their house in Hawaii. She put it in a plastic bin, surrounded it with clothes and blankets to keep it from breaking, and checked it out to Kona. My dad gets great use out of it in his bathroom.

Another difficult thing about flying standby is checking luggage. If I check my bag with all of my clothes to my final destination and I don't get on the flight, my bag goes to the destination and I don't. I have learned how to best pack my carry on suitcase with the bags that you can take the air out of, use miniature shampoos and soaps, and determining what I will really need on my trip. I went from Kona - Ecuador - Orlando - Chicago - Cincinnati - Singapore - Phuket - Bangkok - Honolulu with just a carry on backpack. I thrifted in some of the cities, when I needed a coat or a cute dress, then donated it back when I was done.

I can't complain when I sit in coach, hell I'm traveling the globe at my own leisure. There is a great community of standby-ers that are helpful, supportive and will commiserate when you have to spend the night on the floor in the airport. Or open their home to you so when you are stuck, you have a couch to sleep on. There are great Facebook pages that the airline community will answer questions like, "Can I carry on a 32" TV or do I have to check it?" or "Where should I take my family of 3 on a weekend getaway?" They have all the answers!

I love the flexibility that my privileges allow me to have, even if I have to sit in coach from MSP to NRT (Minneapolis to Tokyo, Japan). It can get tricky if you have to be somewhere NOW, but thats how this all works. If you need to be there NOW... buy a positive seat.

So, how do you get these amazing benefits? Convince a best friend or family member to work for an airline, OR you could work there yourself and reap the benefits!


Happy Flying!

San Francisco

This is one of my favorite cities in the United States because of its charm, diversity, architecture and weather. I visited San Fran in February and the weather was beautiful, a little cool at night, but sunny and sweatshirt weather during the day. I love the public transportation system here, the history, Chinatown and Japantown. The city is a bit expensive, but well worth it... at least a weekend trip.


Getting from the airport (SFO) to downtown
As I always suggest use your google maps app, this is the best and easiest way to navigate your way around.


Take the BART (train) to get downtown. If you are coming from the Air Train in the airport, buy a ticket as you exit the train on the upper level. There are ticket vending machines in the middle of the floor. You must have a valid ticket in order to exit BART and descend on the escalator. For those of you traveling with Children under the age of 4, they can ride free on the San Francisco BART trains.

A 1-way BART ticket to downtown San Francisco costs $8.10 . Alternatively, if you know you will be returning to the airport via BART, you can buy a ticket for $16.20, and keep it with you for reuse at the end of your stay in San Francisco. The automatic ticket vending machines accept United States dollars, credit and debit cards. Keep your ticket handy, you'll need it when you exit.


From the BART you will need to exit the train station then transfer to the MUNI transportation system, bus or train.

MUNI (the bus) fairs are $2.25 per adult; $1 for ages 5-17 and include a transfer up to 90 minutes. They only take cash! There is a month pass, but not a day or week pass, so use those transfers wisely. The MUNI will take you all around the city and is very reliable and safe. My advise is to pick up a map at the airport or at your hotel/hostel and use your Google Maps App.


What to see and do
If this is your first time to SF, of course you have to visit Alcatraz Island, Pier 39 and the Golden Gate Bridge, but here are a few things off the beat and path that are fun to see and do in SF.

Seward Street Slides- The best way to ride the slides is to go down sitting on a piece of cardboard – you might find some at the foot of the slides, but bring your own just in case. Plunk down on your cardboard, and push off from the top. Pro tip: if you want to go really fast, throw a few handfuls of sand down the slide before you set off. Technically adults are supposed to be accompanied by children, but no one will begrudge you a joy ride if you're quick and quiet about it.
Address: 30 Seward St. Ask around if you can't find it, people will be happy to help. Best part... it's FREE!


Walt Disney Family Museum - A museum that features the life and legacy of Walt Disney. The museum is located in The Presidio of San Francisco, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in San Francisco. The museum is a great walk through Walt's life from growing up in Missouri to the creation of Steamboat Willy and Mickey. It took me half a day to walk through and read every piece of history I could. There is even a list of food items that Walt liked and didn't like for his wife that is on display. The museum also has some spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge! They also offer film screenings of classic Disney movies every day. Check their website for more details. Address: 104 Montgomery Street. Open daily 10am–6pm, except every Tues, Jan 1, Thanksgiving & Dec 25. Adult tickets are $20 for admission; $7 for film screening.


Japanese Tea Garden - is a popular feature of Golden Gate Park, originally built as part of a sprawling World's Fair, the California Midwinter International Exposition of 1894. The oldest public Japanese garden in the United States, this complex of many paths, ponds and a teahouse features native Japanese and Chinese plants. The garden's 5 acres contain many sculptures and bridges. It is a beautiful and relaxing place to be at peace in. You can also purchase Japanese tea to enjoy while exploring the garden. Get there before 10am Monday-Friday and enter for free, otherwise the fee is $8 for adults.image credit: www.innsf.com


Japantown - is a neighborhood in the Western Addition district of San Francisco, California. It comprises about six squarecity blocks. San Francisco's Japantown is the largest and oldest such enclave in the United States.Visit in April for the Cherry Blossom Festival, this event features dazzling display showcasing the color and grace of the Japanese culture and the diversity of the Japanese American Community.


Just up the street is The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption at 1111 Gough St. Its a very interesting architectural building and the inside is even more beautiful. Take a walk up from Japantown to visit this amazing building.image credit: gawker.com








Ferry Plaza Farmers MarketSaturday 8am–2pm; Tuesday 10am–2pm; Thursday 10am–2pmThe Ferry Building Marketplace is open every day, but these are the days to go when the local farmers display their beautiful vegetables, fruits, sprouts, and other yummy foods. They do free walking tours and start at noon on Saturdays and Tuesdays. Tours coincide with the Ferry Plaza Farmers Market.

Where to Stay
I stayed at the Green Tortuous Hostel, which I highly recommend. I stayed in a 4 bed all female dorm for $40 per night. Seems a bit pricy, but it was convenient to the bus, BART, Chinatown, downtown and I even walked to the pier to catch the boat to Alcatraz Island. What you get: Free WiFi, free breakfast every morning (bagels, fruit, OJ, eggs, continental style), free dinner 3 times a week and its pretty delicious, a fully equipped kitchen with a stove and oven, and a discount at the liquor store around the corner. I met so many fun people there, it is a "Party Hostel", so there are many more young people around. They had hostel events such as a dinner out, pub crawl, and a few tours available most nights of the week. They do have private rooms too. Check them out!


Enjoy your time in San Francisco! The only reason I didn't stay was because the cost of an apartment is an arm and a leg!

Google Maps & Public Transportation

Traveling around the world I have my favorite Apps that are really useful, and Google Maps app is one of them. Because I use public transportation as much as possible when traveling its a great tool. I have used it to get around Barcelona, Honolulu, Paris, Singapore, Bangkok, Chicago, NYC, Cincinnati, San Francisco and so many other cities.

If you aren't familiar with the app, here are the steps to make your life so much easier while traveling using public transportation.
First, download the app. Its available on android, iOS, and web. I use it on my iPad and iPhone.

Touch the blue circle with the arrow in it.

It will bring you to the directions page. Select the train image then type in your destination. You can use the address, but I usually type in the name of the place. Google is very smart.


It will give you route options and length of trip to choose from.


Once selected it gives you directions, including walking to your destination.

If it doesn't have an option for public transportation, it will give you a quote for how much it will cost you to take an Uber.

I don't have data available in other countries, so I use it while I'm on wifi, screen shot it and follow the route. Google Maps will download the city you are in while you are on wifi, just open google maps and your GPS in the phone will move the blue dot around to show you where you are on the map.

Good luck circling the world!

Day Trip from Bangkok to Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya, pronounced "Ah-you-tie-ah", is an ancient capital and modern city in the Central Plains of Thailand, 85 km north of Bangkok. It is the Capital City of the Province of this name. The city is scattered with ancient ruins and beautiful temples. It was so exciting just thinking about what the city must have looked like in the 17th Century. I was walking in the footsteps of royalty and peasants in this magnificent place. The city has so much to see, so if you can stay the night, if not plan a whole day visiting Ayutthaya.

To get to the train station in Bangkok to Ayutthaya:
Take the MRT to the Hua Lamphong stop. Exit the MRT and follow the signs for Hua Lamphong train station. You will exit right at the train station. 

Each train has a designated ticket booth, I advise to ask the information desk, as you enter the station, what number ticket booth to purchase your ticket. Go to that booth and ask for a one way ticket to Ayutthaya. It should be about 20 BAT for a 3rd class ticket. This doesn't have AC, but the wind is nice. Be sure to ask what train track to go to from the clerk. There is a small convenient store inside the great hall to pick up any last minute waters or snacks you may want for the 2 hour plus ride. I picked up some water and snacks for the trip and glad I did.

Once on the train I asked a fellow westerner if they were headed in the same direction as me, just to be sure I was on the correct train, and we became quick friends. That's the fun part about traveling is meeting new people. My new friends and I decided because I only had 4 hours to explore the temples we would share a tuktuk. 

Once we arrived at the Ayutthaya stop we were greeted by many Tuk Tuk drivers and given a map of all the temples and attractions. We negotiated a price at 800BAT (about $22) for 3 people for 4 hours. We told him the places we wanted to go and he suggested a few more of the must see places. It was great! He waited at every stop for us and even dropped us off at a nice place for lunch on the river. He brought us back to the train station just in time to catch the train back to Bangkok.


Once at the train station in Ayutthaya purchase your ticket back to Bangkok and they will tell you what track to be on. Once again chat with some westerners to pass the time because the train may be late.

Once back in Bangkok catch the MRT back to your hotel or hostel.My day trip cost $20, including food, admission into each temple, water and transportation (train and tuktuk).

I do suggest that ladies if you are wearing a tank top to bring a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders. Out of respect, they ask you to dress modestly. I wore shorts and a tank top and draped a scarf over my shoulders.

Here is a list of the must see temples:
Wat Phra Mahathat
Wat Phra Si Sanphet / The Grand Palace
Wat Chaiwattaranaram
Wat Buddhaisawan

Chicago

Getting There

From Ohare Airport

The blue line will take you into the city. At the O'Hare station the train only goes one way (it's the last station in the line), so watch for the signs for which train is departing next. From the blue line you can connect to any of the elevated or L train lines. 

From Midway Airport

The Orange line will take you into the city and can connect you to any of the L trains. 

The Chicago transpiration system is one of the easiest I have come across. The system is designed like spokes on a wheel. So if you are downtown you can get just about anywhere in the city on the L. 

Where To Go - There is so much to see and do in Chicago, so here a couple of places that I have enjoyed when visiting the Second City.

John Hancock Observatory (now 360 Chicago). Open every day from 9am to 11pm you get an unbelievable view of the city. Adult admission for the ride up and the view is $19.

Or you can visit the Willis Tower and walk out on the ledge of Chicago's tallest building. At 1,353 feet in the air, the Ledge’s glass boxes extend out 4.3 feet from the Skydeck. Day of tickets will set you back $30, order online and get a discounted rate of $19.50 for adults.

Free architecture walking tours are a great way to get some general knowledge of the city and appreciate the beautiful and not so beautiful buildings in the city. Free Tours By Foot has many types of tours to choose from such as food, ghost and the Lincoln Park Zoo. Be sure to book ahead of time and tip your guide!!

Wrigley Field

Book a tour of Wrigley field for only $25 per person. Stroll through the home of the Chicago Cubs and get the chance to see what happens behind the scenes of the Friendly Confines. This 70-90 minute tour will take you behind the scenes and see the visitors clubhouse, Cubs clubhouse, Cubs dugout and the historical Wrigley Field. Catch a game if you can!

NPR's Wait Wait Don't Tell Me taping

See the live taping of the radio program taped in the Chase Bank auditorium. $30 will get you a ticket to two of the funniest hours on your trip. Click the link for more information and tickets. 

Chapel in the Sky

Visit the Methodist church at the Chicago Temple Monday through Saturday a free tour is offered at 2pm.  At the corner of Washington St and Clark St on the 23rd floor is the tallest church building in the world. The views aren't spectacular, but it's an interesting and historical chapel.  

Second City Theater Troupe

Have a laugh with the best known, first ever, on-going improvisational theater troupe in the United States. Get tickets in advance Check groupon.com and goldstar.com for discount tickets. 

Where To Stay

Chicago Hostel International - located at 24 E Congress Pkwy. A 3-minute walk from Harrison subway station, this trendy hostel in The Loop is a 9-minute stroll from Grant Park, and a 15-minute walk from the observation deck of Willis Tower. Free breakfast buffet, WiFi and two cafe's on site. This hostel also offers private rooms.


Parthenon Hostel - located at 312 S Halsted St, it's just outside of the city center Chicago. A 15-minute walk from the Willis Tower, this modern Greektown hostel is 0.2 miles from an El train stop with 3-minute service to the Chicago Loop. Complimentary breakfast and all day coffee and tea with a restaurant and bar on site. Free WiFi of course.
Aloft - located 515 N Clark St, just north of the river. This contemporary, glass-sided hotel in the trendy River North area is a 6-minute walk from Michigan Avenue's high-end shopping and 1 mile from 360 CHICAGO's observatory. 

Where To Eat

Get your deep dish Chicago style pizza fix at Uno's Pizzeria. It's the best deep dish I've ever had! A small pan will serve two to three people. Or try Deu one block away, the 2nd Chicago style pizza joint. 

Enjoy a night on the town at RPM Italian. Serving traditional and modern Italian food in a sleek urban environment, it doesn't disappoint. Devour a big bowl of Mama DiPandis spaghetti and defiantly have the hazelnut tartufo for dessert. Don't skip on the dessert!!

Celebrate the end of prohibition at Berghoff. Enjoy a beer at the first establishment to get their liquor license after the end of prohibition. 17 West Adams street.  

Have a drink at The Trump Tower. Enjoy a cocktail while overlooking the Chicago river in the heart of downtown. 

View from The Trump Tower

I hope you enjoy The Windy City as much as I do. There is so much to do and see in this town, you wont be bored!

Traveling Solo

For the most part I travel solo all around the world, visiting places that intrigue me or to go visit friends. It can be lonely traveling all alone and sometimes it would be nice to have someone to share my experiences with. But traveling alone has its benefits.

Making new friends

Making new friends on the road is a lot easier than what you think. Think about it, there are thousands of travelers just like you on their own adventures right now. When traveling with others it’s easier to settle in with your own group, but when your traveling solo you must rely on yourself and others, this is when you get to know new people. Don't be afraid to ask others about their adventure, that's what we all want to hear about. Talk about where you have been, where you're going, where you're from and how long you are in the city you're visiting to get the conversation started.

Go where YOU want, when YOU want

My favorite thing to do in cities is to walk the streets and get “lost”. Now, with GPS you're never lost. I walk around the city to see what the locals see, stopping in at interesting bars, shops and grocery stores. You get to decide where YOU want to go and make your own timeline and don't have to worry about when someone else is hungry, thirsty, late, if they walk too fast, or too slow. While walking the streets I love visiting grocery stores to see what the locals eat and how it compares to what is at my local grocery store. I never know what ill find to eat, and its cheaper than going to a restaurant.

Discovering YOU!

Getting to know yourself is a wonderful and empowering byproduct of traveling solo. Like writing in a journal, this is a great stress reliever and a way to remember what you did day to day to tell all of your friends back home. Traveling by yourself allows you to witness how you react to different situations and can gain a deeper understanding of who you are and what actually matters to you. The beauty of traveling alone is to self reflect and have time to yourself and learn to be lonely. Learn to overcome the uncomfortable situations will make you stronger. “What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.”

Challenge yourself

Whats great about traveling alone is that no one knows you! Use this to your benefit because you can make a fool of yourself and you will never have to see these people again. Not good at chatting up that cute guy/girl? Well, first of all if you're rejected, that's their problem they don't want to be with you and second of all you will never have to see this person again, thirdly when you do make that positive connection you may have met your new best friend or husband/wife! Are you a picky eater? Use this time to expand your horizons and taste what the locals love to eat. You never know what you’ll love, I mean that foie gras wont eat itself!

Gain Confidence

The first solo trip I took was a little nerve-wracking. I was in a new city, with people I didn't know and I didn't speak the language. With each trip you take, the more confident you will get with using public transportation, talking to people, reading maps, trying new food and meeting new people. The more you travel the more you know. 

So, book that trip you always wanted to take! Make new friends and discover a new culture and surroundings. Challenge yourself by trying new food and open yourself to meeting new people. Enjoy your time to yourself!!

Check out my friends article on Why Traveling Solo Can Be Good For You. I was interviewed by Maria Walley for the piece. Thank you so much for the opportunity!

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand is known for its ornate shrines and vibrant street life. The city is easy to navigate and public transportation (skytrain & BTS) are reliable and safe. This busy city will entertain anyone who visits.

Arriving at Bangkok international airport.
In the airplane you will be given a customs form to fill out, fill out the entire form even the piece you will keep to present upon exiting Thailand. This will make your life a lot easier. Pass through customs and passports and look for signs to the skytrain. It will be on the bottom floor of the concourse. Grab a free map on your way to the train.

Skytrain to downtown Bangkok:
You will need to purchase a token from the automated machines and there is an attendant there to assist you. Select your destination, insert cash and it will give you a token.

Pass through the "turnstiles" by scanning your token over the indicated area, you may now pass through.

Keep your token on you, in your wallet or pocket because when you exit the skytrain dispense your token in the exit "turnstile".

Bangkok BTS/MRT
If you are transferring from the skytrain you will likely take the BTS. A very easy system of above ground rails that will take you to the most popular of destinations. You will need coin cash for this system.
Refer to the pricing signage for how much to pay.

Pricing chart to the right. 1. Select price assigned to station. 2. Pay with coins 3. Take ticket 4. Take change

Select the button that refers to how much to pay, insert coins, and it will dispense a swipe card.  A day pass is available at the booth for 120BHT or a 3 day pass for 230BHT.

Swipe card

When to go
Thailand is so close to the equator it keeps an average temperature of 75 degrees F. It's hot and humid here, so bring light cotton clothes.
Rainy season falls in the months of May, June, July, August, September and October. And dry periods in January and December. The hottest months are April and May.
Sonkran is the Thai new year celebrated by water gun fights on the streets. It's fun to experience once and prepare to be soaked all three days. It's just like the calendar new year, like we know it, only with a lot of water and for three days!

Where to stay
There are many hostels and hotels to choose from in Bangkok, it just depends on what part of town you want to stay in. Here are a few good options:

The Blocks Hostel
This hostel provides dormitories for 4 - 6 people, but also private rooms for 2 - 3 people per room. Personal lockers are provided in each room for your belongings. There is a great rooftop terrace, a space where you can sit, drink, and have a great time with both old and new friends. The hostel also has various weekly/monthly events such as pub crawls, film night parties, and dining out nights. Short walking distance from the train, bars and shopping. BTS station Nana.

WH Hostel
WH hostel is located in the city centre of Bangkok (Sukhumvit Rd.). Just 5 mins to Siam centre and MBK shopping centre via BTS sky train and 10-15 mins walk from our hub to BTS sky train station. There are 2 types room with 6 beds room and 4 beds room. If your looking for a quiet private place, this is a good option.

What to do
Chatuchak Weekend Market
This is where you want to do your souvenir shopping! Spend the morning walking though over 8,000 stalls filled with items such as jewelry, clothes, antiques, books, ceramics, buddhas, textiles, and all prices are negotiable! You will not be disappointed. Also, grab some yummy street food at the market and keep hydrated!  How to get there: Take the skytrain to Mo Chit station exit no. 1 and follow the crowd of people to the market. OR the subway (MRT) to Chatuchak Park Station exit no. 1. The market is open on Saturdays and Sundays, 9am-6pm and Fridays 6pm-Midnight.

Map of market

Grand Palace & Wat Pra Keaw
Built in 1782, and for 150 years the home of Thai Kinds and the Royal court, the Grand Palace continues to have visitors in awe with its beautiful architecture and intricate detail. Set a guided tour ahead of time if possible, this place is gigantic! Wat Phra Kaew is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand and holds the highly revered Buddhist image carved from a single block of jade. This place is very impressive. Open from 8:30am-3:30pm. 400 baht entry fee. There is a very strict dress code, men must wear long pants and shirts with sleeves (no tank tops), and no bare feet (wear your tennis shoes this day). Women must be similarly modestly dressed, properly covered, no see-through clothes, bare shoulders, etc.

Wat Pho
There is more to Wat Pho than the gigantic reclining Buddha. There is a fantastic collection of murals, inscriptions and sculptures that delve into various subjects from warfare to astronomy to archeology. The highlight for most people visiting Wat Pho is the Reclining Buddha. The figures here are impressive: 50 feet tall, 150 feet long, so large it feels like it has been squeezed into the building. Its beneficial if you set up a private tour beforehand to fully understand the significance of this beautiful place. If you don't have a tour guide, take the printed guide, don't take their guided tour (it was led a drunk man when I was there). Open from 8am-5pm. 100 baht is the entry fee, well worth it!




Floating Market
Dozens of wooden row boats floating by, each laden to the brim with farm-fresh fruits, vegetables or flowers. Food vendors fill their boats with cauldrons and charcoal grills ready to whip up a bowl of ‘boat noodle’ or seafood skewers. There are several popular floating markets such as Khlong Lat Mayom, Damneon, and Amphawa markets. Use your bargaining skills to get the best deal on your coconut, bananas, or bowl of noodles. I have heard of people getting a private tour of the floating markets to fully understand this significant experience.

There is so much to see and do in Bangkok from Temples to Palaces and Mansions to the Canals and Khlongs and the streets of China Town. Get your fill of Buddhist culture, Thai food, shopping and amazing nightlife (if your up to it, check out a ladyboy show!) I suggest at least a week to get your fill of Bangkok.

Looking for more to do around Bangkok? Read more about my day trip to Ayutthaya for $20! Click HERE!

Trips any mom would love

Happy Mothers Day to all the moms out there! Including moms of humans, dogs, cats, iguanas, koalas, or monkeys. I am a mom to these two beautiful boys.


You can buy your mom flowers, but what she probably really wants is more time with you. It's easy to give her that by taking her on vacation. So, now is the time to start planning for next year with these ideas of 10 incredible trips mom wants to go on.

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And if she really wants brunch, I’m sure you can find a brunch restaurant at one of these places. Give mom what she deserves for all of her hard work, patience, advice (wanted or not) and all that laundry that she has done!

Where would you want to take your mom on vacation? Post in the comments below.