tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-258450332024-03-16T00:07:46.100-07:00One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for TravelJerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.comBlogger192125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-77173316698602995852010-12-22T15:14:00.000-08:002010-12-22T15:36:15.306-08:00Oh what a difference a year makes<span id="fullpost">This post is here: <a href="http://www.jerrigirl.com">http://www.jerrigirl.com</a><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com152tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-15584814194805678702009-12-30T07:13:00.000-08:002010-02-09T10:13:10.254-08:00Do It While You're Young<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SztxrQVpLpI/AAAAAAAAAdo/Vx4_lNJU42k/s1600-h/n110204337041_6821.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 189px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SztxrQVpLpI/AAAAAAAAAdo/Vx4_lNJU42k/s320/n110204337041_6821.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421051564404584082" border="0" /></a><br />My best friend, Kristina, and I have been writing <a href="http://www.diwyy.com/">Do It While You're Young: The Travel Guide for the Modern Girl</a> for about 5 years. <span id="fullpost">Because you learn something new on every trip, DIWYY has been a work in progress and keeps getting better and better with the more traveling that Kristina and I do. We've also recruited a few other travel writers who contribute frequently reporting their adventures and unique stories from traveling. I wanted to invite you to <a href="http://www.diwyy.com/">DIWYY.com</a> for more stories and advice on traveling the world. We're also on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/DIWYY">facebook.com/DIWYY</a>. Happy Travels friends!<br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-42780666642396170772009-02-13T14:58:00.000-08:002009-02-13T15:00:24.488-08:00Where have I been?These days I'm moving more around the interwebs than around the world. For my latest whereabouts please visit me at my <a href="http://www.jerrigirl.com">new One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel</a> blog.<span id="fullpost"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com88tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-40137677915248152532008-11-16T20:02:00.000-08:002008-11-16T21:27:51.318-08:006 random things<a href="http://blog.eloyz.com/">Eloy</a> tagged me for 6 random things. I never have any idea what to say on these things so I'm just typing the first things that come to mind. Here are the rules according to <a href="http://www.imeldabettinger.com/blog/2008/11/13/6-random-things/">Imelda</a><br /><br />1. Link to the person who tagged you.<br />2. Post the rules on the blog.<br />3. Write six random things about yourself.<br />4. Tag six people at the end of your post.<br />5. Let each person know they have been tagged.<br />6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.<br /><br /><ol><li>I've been singing to animals every since I can remember. Because I didn't have animals when I was little (like 4 years old) I used to climb my neighbors' fences and sing to their dogs. They would stop, line up like my own little audience and listen. I still sing to my cats, but I don't climb my neighbors' fences anymore (or do I?).<br /></li><li>I sleep on my back with my arms and feet crossed and a pillow on my head. Yes, on my head. Like I'm in a coffin. I've slept like this my whole life.</li><li>Although I know I've seen many really great movies, I can never remember which one is my favorite. Even when the movie is over and I say to myself, "This is your favorite movie Jerri. Try to remember." I will still forget. The same goes for food. Although I am pretty sure my favorite veggie is Asparagus.</li><li>My proudest moment ever in my life was making varsity softball as a freshman in high school and starting at third base. We ended up getting 3rd at state! We were awesome!<br /></li><li>When I'm eating, I only eat one type of food at a time on my plate. I know this is actually bad manners, but I can't help it. It's just me. I also will not drink anything, not even water, with my meal. I also refuse to eat it any other way than it was prepared. Meaning I won't add mustard, ketchup, salt or pepper, etc.<br /></li><li>I'm obsessed, obsessed I tell you, with hotels. I read about them constantly and want to own several one day. I even write hotel owners to see if their hotels are for sale. I chicken out when they tell me that they are though. I already have my hotels designed and named and know exactly where I want it to be.<br /></li></ol><br />My tags are:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.magsmacncheese.com/">Maggie</a><br /><a href="http://karina028.blogspot.com/">Karina</a><br /><a href="http://singaporegrrl.blogspot.com/">Kerry</a><br /><a href="http://glen.zangirolami.com/">Glen</a><br /><a href="http://www.brian-leblanc.com/blog/">Brian</a><br /><a href="http://frugalnfabulous.blogspot.com/">Kristina<br /></a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-57278624703542643782008-09-20T10:30:00.000-07:002008-09-20T15:32:17.697-07:00If I don't travel, am I not me?<span style="font-weight:bold;">At the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNU28DjB1tI/AAAAAAAAARc/zXb370eRrMg/s1600-h/n500299467_565995_9164-3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNU28DjB1tI/AAAAAAAAARc/zXb370eRrMg/s320/n500299467_565995_9164-3.jpg" border="0" alt="Jerri at the Cape of Good Hope"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248161346142459602" /></a><br />I haven't traveled out of the country in about two years. I just haven't had the means. Well, that's not entirely true. I never really had the means to travel, but I did it anyway. I always found a way even if I didn't have the money as long as I had the time. I'm worried that my interest in traveling is going away and that I'll never get it back. <br /><br /><br />I'm worried that I'll become one of those people who tells stories of how I traveled around the world when I was in my twenties when I am in my 60s. The feeling that I'm out of touch with the world is beginning. I don't really dream about going places like I used to. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNU33jzjmdI/AAAAAAAAARk/zIlfCHDUo70/s1600-h/n500299467_818548_1816.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNU33jzjmdI/AAAAAAAAARk/zIlfCHDUo70/s320/n500299467_818548_1816.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248162368413997522" /></a>When I see pictures of travelers on beautiful water, islands, boats, adventure I say to myself, "Hmm, that looks nice. Lucky them." Then I rationlize it and say, "Well, I've already done that. Let them have their turn." Then I freak out thinking to myself, "Wait! What if they catch up to how many countries I've been to! What if they have more fun than I did!" Lastly, I think to myself, "Well, Jerri, this is the life you've chosen for yourself. It's time to be stable and begin saving up for your retirement." Really! Who am I?<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Antigua, Caribbean<span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNU2Xybi2YI/AAAAAAAAARU/fuY1e_4Yr8Q/s1600-h/n500299467_712371_5456-2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNU2Xybi2YI/AAAAAAAAARU/fuY1e_4Yr8Q/s320/n500299467_712371_5456-2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248160723072375170" /></a><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-29340404692864169192008-09-02T14:23:00.000-07:002008-09-20T15:31:21.652-07:00Finally! San Francisco and San JoseI took a long weekend-flying out on Friday afternoon and returning Monday afternoon, Labor Day, to visit Kristina in San Jose and San Francisco. I've been dying to go to San Fran for about ten years and the opportunity just never came up until now!<br /><br />I had no idea what to expect. In my head, San Francisco is home to <span style="font-style:italic;">On The Road</span>, beatnik types like Jack Kerouac and <span style="font-style:italic;">Full House</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Friday </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVtMhrCCUI/AAAAAAAAARs/KvRc3xB2Pps/s1600-h/2815861719_95322953eb.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVtMhrCCUI/AAAAAAAAARs/KvRc3xB2Pps/s320/2815861719_95322953eb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248221002734897474" /></a>I arrived at the San Jose airport around eight where Kristina picked me up and took me down to Santana Row for dinner at <a href="http://www.thearestaurant.com/">Thea's</a>. I had an awesome Raspberry Caiprinha and we (Kristina, me and Kristina's friend, Kelly) shared phyllo pie stuffed with spinach, feta cheese, leeks and onions and pita with hummus. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVta4oedJI/AAAAAAAAAR0/vMNbIBOqrvc/s1600-h/2816716206_0eb6e87feb.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVta4oedJI/AAAAAAAAAR0/vMNbIBOqrvc/s320/2816716206_0eb6e87feb.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248221249416361106" /></a><br /><br />Afterward we went to the <a href="http://www.hotelvalencia.com/san-jose-santana-row-home.php">Hotel Valencia</a> that I recognized as being in San Antonio as well. The crowd was pretty posh. The courtyard has nice running water fountains and fire pits with lounges set up around them. We were pretty tired and Saturday was going to be our big day, so we decided to go home and crash around 1 am.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Saturday<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><br />We woke up early and drove to San Francisco from San Jose. Of course, I had to stop at Google and get a picture.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVuOU1h6_I/AAAAAAAAAR8/MER1L0iDYiQ/s1600-h/2815871675_b7eb29252e.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVuOU1h6_I/AAAAAAAAAR8/MER1L0iDYiQ/s320/2815871675_b7eb29252e.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248222133160635378" /></a><br /><br />The amazing thing about San Francisco that I didn't expect was the sudden temperature change. It was at least ten degrees cooler once we got there and I saw clouds hanging low above the valleys. As we approached the city, I saw rows of small houses packed in tightly along the hills. It reminded me of the townships in South Africa. Weird. I know, that this city reminded me of third world living conditions. When we arrived in San Francisco proper, the sky was clear and we could see the top of the Golden Gate bridge, which I am told, is rare.<br /><br /><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVuy44Jj0I/AAAAAAAAASE/C6vCombFhfU/s1600-h/2816725684_df4e625c35.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNVuy44Jj0I/AAAAAAAAASE/C6vCombFhfU/s320/2816725684_df4e625c35.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248222761310588738" /></a><br /><br /><br />We ate at a cute coffee/wine cafe and explored the city seeing all the touristy spots before taking our luggage to the hotel- <a href="http://www.westinsf.com/">Westin in Union Square</a>- and getting some rest before our big night on the town.<br /><br />As a sweet surprise, Kristina took me to the Bobbi Brown counter at Nordstrom's so we could get makeovers before we went out. We got dressed up and decided to leave to go around the corner from our hotel to a club called <a href="http://www.slidesf.com/slidesf.html">Slide</a>. We managed to find some cute Marine boys in town for the Labor Day weekend and spent most of the night talking to them and dancing. They were about to leave to go on their third tour of Iraq and I'm not much into long distance relationships so we said our goodbyes and Kristina and I went home to our awesome Westin hotel room and beds.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sunday<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><br />We packed up our belongings and said good bye to the beautiful city of San Francisco and drove back to San Jose. Kristina took me on a tour of the huge homes around San Jose. To be honest, while the homes were spectacularly large to be sure, I was pretty unimpressed with their lack of personality. They were big, the yards were small and the view was pretty uninspiring. I don't love San Jose.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNV35YQyVII/AAAAAAAAASM/Dzstn7xAwpc/s1600-h/2816786910_9f5a27785b.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNV35YQyVII/AAAAAAAAASM/Dzstn7xAwpc/s320/2816786910_9f5a27785b.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248232768419288194" /></a><br /><br />In the afternoon, Kristina took me to some vineyards (wine trees as I like to call them) outside of San Jose. Not Napa Valley, but still quite fun! First we headed to <a href="http://www.fortinowinery.com/">Fortino Winery</a> where we had some amazing Almond Champagne. Next we made our way to <a href="http://www.sycamorecreekvineyards.com/">Sycamore Creek Vineyards</a> where we jumped in their vineyards. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNV4fiKWd3I/AAAAAAAAASc/GmrzmBT-IDU/s1600-h/2816804726_5294eab61d.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNV4fiKWd3I/AAAAAAAAASc/GmrzmBT-IDU/s320/2816804726_5294eab61d.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248233423911679858" /></a><br /><br />After several glasses of wine for me, not Kristina, we drove home and rested before beginning the last leg of the vacation: the continuation of our Melting Pot World Tour! Kristina and I have been to the Melting Pots in Ft. Lauderdale, Houston and now San Jose. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNV5E4JPkpI/AAAAAAAAASk/VpytwOXNRPY/s1600-h/n1201116_41355044_1877.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/SNV5E4JPkpI/AAAAAAAAASk/VpytwOXNRPY/s320/n1201116_41355044_1877.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5248234065467773586" /></a> With belly's full, we went home and watched Exiled on MTV and laughed with Kristina's mom about all the fun we had and all the silly things we said (i.e. "Horses are pretty chill as long as you eat them.")<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Monday<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><br />The next morning, Kristina's mom made me a goodbye omelette and then they drove me to the San Jose airport around 11 am. It was the perfect mini-vacation!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-62172487169000846332008-03-02T12:27:00.001-08:002008-09-20T10:56:27.080-07:00Ft. Lauderdale Pedicab accident on New Year's Eve<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R8sRHcyXpGI/AAAAAAAAAPs/xWCQNKKBEZ8/s1600-h/julie.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R8sRHcyXpGI/AAAAAAAAAPs/xWCQNKKBEZ8/s320/julie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5173247416649360482" /></a><br />Some of you who are yachties or people who work in the yachting industry know of <a href="http://www.theboaters.tv/">The Boaters TV</a> and the show's former host, Julie Perry who is also the author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/1933596066?tag=moxielife-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=1933596066&adid=0HKJH6D23PD1ED7DX7NV&">The Insiders' Guide to Becoming a Yacht Stewardess: Confessions from My Years Afloat with the Rich and Famous</a>. <br /><br />Julie and her videographer for the show, Suki, were in a hit and run on New Year's Eve on Las Olas in Ft. Lauderdale while riding in a PediCab. No one has come forward yet with any leads about who the person was that hit these ladies. For more information about what happened visit Julie's MySpace blog at <a href="http://blog.myspace.com/jewelswoolf">http://blog.myspace.com/jewelswoolf</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com191tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-7305748254241212962008-01-06T13:07:00.001-08:002008-09-20T10:56:50.005-07:00I love the Body Deli<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R4FF3HerowI/AAAAAAAAAOU/pvXyh0-X6JY/s1600-h/bodydeli.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R4FF3HerowI/AAAAAAAAAOU/pvXyh0-X6JY/s320/bodydeli.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152476261891416834" /></a><br />Today I am thinking of new year's resolutions for getting healthier. My goals aren't lose weight, but really I just want to get healthier. Obviously, what you use on the outside of your body, is just as important as what you put into your body. When I was in St. John, USVI, I used to go to The Body Deli in <a href="http://www.mongoosejunctionstjohn.com/">Mongoose Junction</a> to buy fun products like Cucumber Toner and Almond Milk Moisturizing formula. I'm not sure if it's still there, because their website is down and I remember that a while back they were up for sale. I hope that someone got ahold of that place and is doing well with it. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R4FGB3eroxI/AAAAAAAAAOc/o8nFm8IUKK4/s1600-h/body_deli.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R4FGB3eroxI/AAAAAAAAAOc/o8nFm8IUKK4/s320/body_deli.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5152476446575010578" /></a>Luckily, the original <a href="https://thebodydeli.com">Body Deli</a> is still around and even better they ship their products! The owner even has a blog, <a href="http://cosmetichef.blogspot.com">The Cosmetic Chef</a>! Great name, great branding, overall great marketing!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-15727563141298382622007-12-27T17:30:00.000-08:002007-12-27T18:25:43.019-08:00Benazir Bhutto<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R3RbpHerotI/AAAAAAAAANM/JBwSU2Zgh7I/s1600-h/2141851098_735e7e663e_o.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/R3RbpHerotI/AAAAAAAAANM/JBwSU2Zgh7I/s320/2141851098_735e7e663e_o.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5148841035931820754" /></a>I gasped out loud this morning when I went to the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/">New York Times website</a> and learned of Benazir Bhutto's assassination. Five years ago I was fortunate enough to hear Bhutto give a <a href="http://www.acu.edu/events/news/archives2002/021112_bhuttofollow.html">speech for the Center for Building Community</a> at my university, Abilene Christian. Since then I've been a supporter and follower of her life, but sadly today that ended. <br /><br />Benazir Bhutto was a beautiful and courageous woman. I hope that the good fight for progress, social justice and democracy that she fought for her entire life will be upheld and honored in her legacy.<br /><span id="fullpost"><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-54470276258997849662007-12-15T09:02:00.000-08:002007-12-15T10:07:38.379-08:00Airline CommercialsI've been so busy lately I haven't had much time to post. But today I ran across some awesome videos of ads made mby the airlines in the 60s. It's amazing how much the industry has advanced...<br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/TR7JApjgIGw&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/TR7JApjgIGw&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vmjw_RXeh1A&rel=1&border=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vmjw_RXeh1A&rel=1&border=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/bKqQgNZylLw&rel=1&border=0"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/bKqQgNZylLw&rel=1&border=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /><br />Not really an ad, but my favorite:<br /><object width="425" height="355"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qNGCro6JJEE&rel=1"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qNGCro6JJEE&rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="355"></embed></object><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-22823765606914839682007-10-17T17:33:00.000-07:002007-10-17T18:46:40.705-07:00So many places, so little money<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RxarDoMZbvI/AAAAAAAAAH0/2HwY7tja2RA/s1600-h/China_Highlights.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RxarDoMZbvI/AAAAAAAAAH0/2HwY7tja2RA/s320/China_Highlights.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122469704997891826" /></a>BFF Kristina and I are planning a vacation to China in March and it happens to fall on my birthday. I have not been in the city that I live in on my birthday in 10 years. I do this on purpose. It is going to be a <a href="http://www.adventurecenter.com/Peregrine_Adventures/trip/pahc&var=2754">tour</a> which usually isn't my style but I thought I'd give it a try this time. Highlights of the tour include:<br /><br /> * Beijing<br /> * Great Wall<br /> * Forbidden City<br /> * Xian<br /> * Terracotta Warriors<br /> * Shanghai<br /><br />I haven't been out of the country in over a year (gasp!) so I'm incredibly excited. This is also the first time I've ever planned a trip more than a month away. Spontaneous? Just a little bit. Other planned trips include:<br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Rxa61IMZbxI/AAAAAAAAAIE/MnJdexAKk9M/s1600-h/LA2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Rxa61IMZbxI/AAAAAAAAAIE/MnJdexAKk9M/s320/LA2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5122487048075833106" /></a>LA for the weekend this fall to visit an old friend and hopefully San Jose/San Fran and Boston. My favorite cities! Not including NYC of course. I'm afraid the days of never being in the same place for more than a month have almost come to an end. Maybe that's a good thing. I haven't decided yet or given up hope to live in all place at all times. Still waiting on some physicists to work that one out for me. Maybe 2008?<br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-86262721087401525542007-10-07T11:24:00.000-07:002008-09-20T10:57:30.236-07:00Houston Has Redeemed Itself-Sort Of<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Rwkp8YMZbuI/AAAAAAAAAHI/3YFkgF0VARo/s1600-h/DSC00473.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Rwkp8YMZbuI/AAAAAAAAAHI/3YFkgF0VARo/s320/DSC00473.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5118668568746618594" /></a>As some of you may or may not know Houston has not been one of my favorite places to be or live. Lack of a train system that causes me and all the other Houstonians to have to drive everywhere and waste gazillions of dollars in gas money has been at the top of my list for reasons to dislike Houston. "But we do have a train!" say the natives. That would be useful to me if it didn't go in only two directions-to the medical center and away from the medical center. I digress. I didn't come here today to talk about Houston's (lack of a) transportation system. <br /><br />I came to talk about how two of my favorite artists are coming to Houston in November-Regina Spektor and Silverchair. Even better, they are playing at venues that are only a block away from my place. <a href="http://www.reginaspektor.com/">Regina Spektor</a> will be at <a href="http://www.warehouselive.com/index.cfm?Fuseaction=EventDetail&EventID=305">Warehouse Live</a> on November 7 and <a href="http://www.chairpage.com/">Silverchair</a> will be at <a href="http://www.meridianhouston.com/">Meridian</a> on November 28.<br /><br />Other bands I'm excited to see playing around these here parts are Dashboard with Augustana at Warehouse Live and Hot Hot Heat at Meridian. Yay Houston!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-45782288496946239202007-09-30T00:36:00.001-07:002007-09-30T01:08:01.059-07:00Bombing in the Maldives<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b4/Male-total.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b4/Male-total.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>I saw a brief posting on Yahoo today about a bombing in the Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka, this morning. I didn't read the article thinking that I might see more on the news. I turned on CNN, FOX, local, but no one was covering the story. Having been obsessed with going to the Maldives (not to mention wondering for a long time how to say the name out loud), I am shocked and disturbed that what to me seems like such an idyllic island could be the target of an attack. <br /><span id="fullpost"><br />The explosions occurred in the capital of Male in a park outside the national museum and injured 12 tourists-<a href="http://www.visitmaldives.com/mu/update.php?subaction=showfull&id=1191085336&archive=&start_from=&ucat=&">2 Japanese, 2 British and 8 Chinese</a>. Apparently, this is the first bombing ever on this island. The government has not commented on possible suspects or motives.<br /><br />One of my favorite resort and spa chains and subject of my obsessions <a href="http://www.sixsenses.com/index.php">Six Senses</a>, has a resort called <a href="http://www.sixsenses.com/soneva-gili/index.php">Soneva Gili</a> which is a short twenty minute boat ride from Male. I hope that the bombing will not deter visitors to the island as I am sure that tourism is a huge part of their economy. <br /><br />Additionally, in researching the Maldives bombing I came across a very cool blog, <a href="http://www.privateislandsblog.com/">The Official Private Islands Blog</a>, which I intend to check out often now.<br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-51815450282733915832007-09-16T15:14:00.000-07:002007-09-16T15:18:55.144-07:00WFNX 101.7 Boston<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Ru2rD7md4CI/AAAAAAAAAGo/s5q995FvKZc/s1600-h/top2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Ru2rD7md4CI/AAAAAAAAAGo/s5q995FvKZc/s320/top2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5110929236162371618" /></a> Another pretty good radio station from a town I used to live in. I'm listening to them right now on iTunes and felt compelled to give them props for playing my favorite song of the moment, <a href="http://www.chairpage.com/">Silverchair</a> "Straight Lines." <br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-14275273125508828632007-09-15T12:46:00.000-07:002008-09-20T10:58:10.276-07:00Women Traveling Solo Should Not Be an Issue<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Ruw2Frmd4BI/AAAAAAAAAGg/hXL4r5B1Rgg/s1600-h/travelwoman.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/Ruw2Frmd4BI/AAAAAAAAAGg/hXL4r5B1Rgg/s320/travelwoman.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5110519148389982226" /></a><br />I have always wanted to own a hotel. I would play "hotel" as a child where I sat up a reservations desk and welcomed guests (grandma, grandpa, mom, dad, neighborhood kids, my cat and dog- we were animal friendly) into my luxury hotel. I have not let go of that dream yet. Today I searched Yahoo under the search terms "women hotel owners," "female hoteliers" and "female hotel owners." I had a really difficult time finding out about owners of hotels that were female. I guess it's a non-issue. To be a hotel owner, it does not matter if you are male or female. What I did find angered me. Truly, I was really upset. Instead of finding hotels owners I found articles about how hotels are beginning to "woo" female travelers. I found FAQ articles about whether women should travel if they are going to travel alone. I found articles about female only floors at hotels. I found articles all over the Internet about women traveling solo, but I could not find what I was really seeking. Now, I'm angry. Frankly, I am offended. Why? <br /><br />I am upset that women need to even ask if it is OK for them to travel solo. This, just like whether hotels are owned by women or men, should be a non-issue. I am not sure why this is such a frequently asked question. Why are women afraid of traveling solo, if at all? What is so scary about traveling? <br /><br />Women take risks every day that are equivalent to the risks they would take if traveling. For example, if I need to eat I go to the grocery store and buy food. Usually, I need to find some mode of transportation to get me to the store to get my food. I have several options for transportation. I can walk, catch a bus, drive a car. It is simple really. I can do all these things even though I am a women. I imagine that women in Australia, England, Japan or-I'm going out on a limb here-even China, have similar struggles. In fact, I have actually observed women in Australia, England and Japan at grocery stores (not China because I have never been) when I was traveling. Alone. Gasp! Women in those countries I assume need to eat and like most regions of the world they go to stores that sell food so they can buy the food to eat. When I go to other countries, I must eat. I go to the store, I buy food, take it home, prepare it and eat it. Just like the women in those countries do it and just like I do it back home. Shopping for food (alone) and traveling (alone) can be accomplished regardless of gender.<br /> <br />By writing articles and books specifically geared toward teaching women how to travel alone we are perpetuating the myth that women should be afraid to travel. I feel like we are basically telling women it's a big scary world out there, traveling is risky and if you are going to travel in such a big scary place you better be prepared because this is going to be h-a-r-d. So hard, in fact, that we have to write this 200 page book about it. We will hold your hand and guide you step-by-step into this big, bad world. Be prepared because you might run into a man. When you do accidentally encounter the male species in the world, you will have wanted to pack your hairbrush but not your hairdryer (because your hotel might already have one and you need to save space for your black high heels that match all of your black wardrobe). I am going to go all out and say "Ladies! You should travel regardless, not despite the fact that you are a woman! You are already smart enough to survive in life, therefore you are smart enough to travel." Women travelers should not be admired. They should not be called brave. Women travelers should be treated like they would be treated at home-like normal, functional, decision making adults. Although, I do believe men should open doors for women. I will not treat women any differently. In fact, I will not even have a "women only floor" at my hotel when I have one. But I may have a girls getaway spa package. Don't worry, I'll have a guys golf getaway. But only because I believe in equal opportunity profit.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-37454639040364076552007-09-14T14:43:00.000-07:002007-09-14T14:55:50.851-07:00Miami to St. Maarten Only $178<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j241/jerristephenson/regatta1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j241/jerristephenson/regatta1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>American Airlines has a NetSaaver <a href="https://www.aa.com/aa/reservation/netSAAverSearchAccess.do?initNetSAAver=TRUE&refererPage=netSAAverHome&searchFeature=netsaaver_alert_home&marketId=5622250&isNetSAAVER=true">deal</a> for flights from Miami to St. Maarten for only $178! The savings come with restrictions however. You must depart Miami between Wednesday September 19 and Friday September 21 and return anytime the following Monday through Wednesday. <br /><br />This is such a great deal, so I hope if you can get the time off you can take advantage of this offer!<br /><br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-42889919204627682622007-08-29T11:47:00.000-07:002007-08-29T11:52:12.250-07:00Lucy's Here in Houston<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.hmns.org/images/lucy-1-256.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.hmns.org/images/lucy-1-256.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.hmns.org/exhibits/special_exhibits/lucy.asp?r=1">Lucy's Legacy: The Hidden Treasures of Ethiopia</a> is making its world premiere here in Houston. The exhibit runs from August 31, 2007 to April 20, 2008 at the Houston Museum of Natural Science in the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Hall of Special Exhibitions.<br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-41588282873403380732007-08-22T16:52:00.000-07:002007-08-22T16:56:23.314-07:00Best Radio Station in the World!Every year when I go down to the Virgin Islands I get excited because I get to listen to <a href="http://buzzrocks.com/">this</a> station! 104.3 The Buzz broadcasts from St. Thomas, USVI and covers the Virgin Islands and PR. Why don't they have stations like this in Houston?<br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-88277933130925088202007-08-16T17:50:00.000-07:002007-08-16T18:01:38.293-07:00Hurricane Warning for Caribbean<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RsTy_RVAd0I/AAAAAAAAAFg/6vS7ribNul8/s1600-h/203525W_sm.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RsTy_RVAd0I/AAAAAAAAAFg/6vS7ribNul8/s320/203525W_sm.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099467846887438146" /></a>The <a href="http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/">National Hurricane Center </a>has issued a Hurricane warning for the islands of St. Lucia, Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Martinique.<br /><br />Hurricane Dean presently is located about 330 KM east of Martinique and is moving west at 23 mph. The center of Dean is expected to cross the Lesser Antilles early Friday morning. Maximum sustained winds are near 100 mph and is currently rated a Category Two Hurricane.<br /><span id="fullpost"><br /><br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-16340028806853729392007-08-09T13:04:00.000-07:002007-08-09T14:34:01.838-07:00Entertainment: Shirley Heights, Antigua<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.shirleyheightslookout.com/Images/Gallery/sailing_week.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.shirleyheightslookout.com/Images/Gallery/sailing_week.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Sometimes it can get a little boring in the Caribbean just lounging around on the beach, drinking Pina Coladas, occasionally getting off your towel to jump into the water, eating out at restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner. <br /><br />Some ole, same ole. <br /><br />Well, suppose you are in Antigua and a little bored with it all and looking to get out of your boring vacation routine. If this sounds like you, maybe you should check out <a href="http://www.shirleyheightslookout.com/index.php?p=home">Shirley Heights</a>.<br /><span id="fullpost"><br />Shirley Heights on Sunday nights is the place to be in Antigua. People from all around the world gather at the peak of this lookout located in a National Park to experience magical sunsets, Antiguan food and drinks (Beware the punch! Don't say I didn't warn you!) and excellent steel bands and reggae music! <br /><br />There is an $8 entrance fee, but they give you a ticket for your first drink free. In addition, the food there is excellent, so come with an empty stomach! It's usually a little slow around 5 pm but it's perfect light to see the beautiful island and yachts down below in English Harbour. As the sun sets, the crowds pick up and things get exciting! Ask your hotel or tour guide about Shirley Heights while you are in Antigua. You will have an amazing time!<br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-52915356251788762082007-08-07T21:26:00.000-07:002008-09-20T10:58:58.187-07:00Luxury Travel: Featured St. Barts Hotels<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.st-barths.com/tom-beach-hotel/rm_slides/slide2.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.st-barths.com/tom-beach-hotel/rm_slides/slide2.jpeg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.st-barths.com/tom-beach-hotel/index.html">Tom Beach Hotel</a> is my absolute favorite hotel in the Caribbean. Located on St. Jean beach on the island of St. Barts, Tom Beach Hotel is a luxurious hotel that doesn't take itself too seriously.<br /><br />Created by Carole Gruson and Thierry de Badereau, the founders of the popular restaurant Ti St-Barth, Tom Beach Hotel is another successful St. Barts venture. Colorful and relaxing, Tom Beach Hotel is luxurious enough to boast a discerning and selective clientele, but scaled down to a fun loving and open minded group instead of a stuffy, Boca Raton sort of guest. This hotel only has 12 rooms, which makes it feel even more comfortable.<br /><br />Of course, the hotel has a bar and a restaurant, <a href="http://www.st-barths.com/tom-beach-hotel/tb_rest.html">La Plage</a>, which is the sister restaurant to <a href="http://www.st-barths.com/tom-beach-hotel/tb_tistbarth.html">Ti St-Barth</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com80tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-7881081813541499332007-08-05T22:16:00.000-07:002007-08-05T22:29:30.511-07:00Travel Frequently Asked QuestionsHere are some frequently asked questions answered in mine and Kristina's book, <a href="http://www.doitwhileyoureyoung.com/blog/">Do It While You're Young: A Travel Guide for the Modern Girl. </a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What kind of luggage should I take?</span><br /><br />It all depends on where you’re going and what you need to <a href="http://jerristephenson.blogspot.com/2007/08/do-you-really-need-all-those-bags.html">take with you</a>. For the most part, you’re probably not going to need near as much as you want or think you will need. You’ll probably want just one medium sized suitcase (or if you’re backpacking you’ll want a good backpack). Then you’ll probably want a carry-on bag if you’re flying as well as a day bag or purse. This is probably all you will need. See chapter 8 about for more info about packing.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Isn’t it unsafe for young women to travel?</span><br /><br />Absolutely not! As with anywhere you go in your <a href="http://jerristephenson.blogspot.com/2007/08/it-can-happen-anywhere.html">own city</a>, you need to take precautions for safety. We’ll discuss common safety practices that you can and should do no matter where you are in Chapter 8.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">How much time to I need to travel?</span><br /><br />It depends. If you only have a few days to get away and relax, that is fine. Whatever it takes to get you out there and experiencing the world it fine by us.<br /><br />If you have more than a few weeks, that just means you have more wiggle room. Some people take months off to travel and others take years. It just depends on you and your resources (money!)<span id="fullpost"><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">A big group of us want to travel together? How is that going to work?</span><br /><br />Well, it may take a little more planning on everyone’s part to get the logistics right, but it is definitely doable. <br /><br />Set rules and guidelines before you go about deciding on destinations and how to mediate disagreements. It is so much fun to travel with friends and the memories can be shared for a lifetime!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Shouldn’t I wait to travel until after I have retired?</span><br /><br />Why would you do that? Why wait until you no longer look hot in a swimsuit to go tropical beaches or you no longer have the stamina to hike to the top of a mountain peak?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Will traveling now be a bad career decision?</span><br /><br />If your employers frown upon employees who are interested in learning about the world around them and don’t like the characteristics of people who travel such as determination, ambition, self-motivation and organizational skills then, yes, it’s probably a bad career decision.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Won’t I feel lonely?</span><br /><br />It is possible that you might feel lonely on occasion. Once you get out and start exploring you will get over that quickly. You will make new friends and, if you have to, your friends and family are only an e-mail or phone call away. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">What if I don’t know what to do?</span><br /><br />Believe in yourself! You will figure it out! If not, don’t ever be afraid to ask for help or research for information in a book or online. The great thing about traveling is learning to rely on yourself. For many of us, traveling is the first time we really get to learn independence and it can be so much fun!<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />What if I don’t know anyone?</span><br /><br />Talk to people! The surest way to make friends when traveling is to talk to them, ask them questions and make yourself available. Just like how you make friends back home.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Am I too young?</span><br /><br />There may be instances where you are too young. For example, if you are in a country where the drinking age is 21 and you are 18, then, yes, you are too young. Luckily for you, and don’t tell your parents we told you this, the drinking age in many countries is 18 or measured by if you can see over the bar!<br /><br />Other than that, no way! If you can read this book, for the most part, we believe you are old enough to travel the world. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Am I too old?</span><br /><br />Of course not!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Where should I go?</span><br /><br />Use your imagination. The possibilities are endless! In chapter 3 we will discuss possible destinations.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />What if I get lost?</span><br /><br />Well, that is highly unlikely in this day and age. There are GPS systems, online maps, and who knows what else. We don’t think you will get lost on accident. At least not for very long. And we do recommend you get lost on purpose!<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />What if I get sick?</span><br /><br />Before you leave home make sure all you vaccinations are up to date. Pack your prescriptions and if you can, bring extra just in case. We also recommend travel insurance. Often times you will return home having never used the insurance that you paid for. There may be a time that you do need your insurance on the road and having taken the precaution to invest in insurance will save you a lot of hassle, worry, time and money.<br /><br />You should also be aware of the food you eat and what you drink. In countries that are famous for their unsafe water buy bottled water with sealed caps and be wary of ice made with the local water. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />What if I don’t speak the language?</span><br /><br />Take a language dictionary if you think you will need it. Sometimes locals will know a little English and will be very pleased to practice on you! If you cannot speak with the locals, try to be polite and courteous. Use gestures (the nice kind!) and be mindful that smiling is a universal language. Remember that speaking loudly will not help them to understand you any better! <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />What about my friends and family back home?</span><br /><br />We will give you tips in Chapter 10 on how to keep in contact with friends and family while you are on your journey.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />What if I don’t have enough money?</span><br /><br />With a little bit of savings and some creativity you can find a way to stretch that budget. We’ll give you more tips on how to save money and to make money while you are on your journey in chapters 4 and 5.<br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-1931229171914805102007-08-05T17:48:00.000-07:002008-09-20T11:05:34.545-07:00Think and Get Paid to TravelI know most people addicted to travel would love to find a way to get paid to travel. Some people have found their niche in the travel world as tour guides, pilots, boat captains, buskers or photojournalists among many other professions. The most popular type of travel job seems to be writing. <br /><br />Figuring out a profitable way to travel and make money is difficult obviously, otherwise loads of people would be doing it already. I believe the best way to get paid to travel is to find out what other people are doing is to model the idea and then try it yourself. For those interested in travel writing, here are some links of interviews or website of people who get paid to travel and their very wise and realistic advice on travel writing.<br /><br />Ricks Steves interview on being a travel writer in <a href="http://www.transitionsabroad.com/publications/magazine/9707/rick_steves_on_being_a_travel_writer.shtml">Transitions Abroad</a>.<br /><br />Rolf Potts offers <a href="http://www.transitionsabroad.com/publications/magazine/0407/rolf_potts_travel_writing_tips.shtml">advice</a> on how to become a travel writer.<br /><br />Jen Leo offers tons of advice for travel writers on <a href="http://www.writtenroad.com/">Written Road</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-10453964470169845152007-08-03T21:11:00.000-07:002007-08-03T21:18:17.648-07:00Thinking About Antarctica?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RrP9ki3lKxI/AAAAAAAAAFY/lWZRWAhqmPo/s1600-h/173.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RrP9ki3lKxI/AAAAAAAAAFY/lWZRWAhqmPo/s320/173.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094694407763208978" /></a><br />Norwegian Coastal Voyages has a special going on right now:<br /><br />Book this 13-day program starting at $4,999 on board the MS Fram before August 31, 2007 and receive FREE airfare with a savings of $750 per person. Offer is good for new bookings only. Offer is valid on select dates. Click <a href="http://www.hurtigruten.us/AntarcticaSub5.asp?pageindex=101">here</a> for more information.<br /><span id="fullpost"><br />Upon your arrival in Santiago, you'll have some time to appreciate this cosmopolitan city while staying at a luxury hotel, before embarking on your exploration voyage. There is only one way to fully experience the frozen landscape and history of "The White Continent," and that's by expedition vessel. With the aid of our expert guides, who provide lectures onboard and off the cuff during landings, you'll have an educationally and enriching adventure. <br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25845033.post-64757700790575863022007-08-03T20:33:00.000-07:002007-08-05T22:38:47.044-07:00Do You Really Need All Those Bags?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RrP5Si3lKwI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/fDKQM8X10Wk/s1600-h/preview.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_XzhrMEkQk3c/RrP5Si3lKwI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/fDKQM8X10Wk/s320/preview.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094689700479052546" /></a><br />Not knowing what the future holds in store for you makes it hard to know what to pack. Most people pack way more than they will ever need. Seasoned travelers will tell you to lay out everything you think you want to take with you on your bed. Then, halve it and that is how much you should really take. There are plenty of what-if scenarios, but believe us when we tell you that what-if scenarios rarely happen. With that in mind here is some advice on making the most of what little space you have in your suitcase. <span id="fullpost"><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Essentials: </span><br /><br />•Passport (for international) or Government-issued Photo ID (for domestic flights)<br />•Any Visas or money for Visas, entry, or exit fees <br />•Airline tickets <br />•Hotel Information: Address, Phone Number, Reservation Number. <br />•Cash<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Luggage: </span>What kind of luggage are you going to need? It depends on your travel circumstances. If you are going to be staying in one location for your entire trip, the type of luggage you will want probably will not matter. If you are backpacking, of course, you are probably going to want a sturdy, heavy duty backpack. You can find backpacks at REI (http://www.rei.com) or Bass Pro Shops (http://www.bassproshops.com).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Clothing: </span>There is no need to bring your entire wardrobe with you on a trip. As tempting as it may be, resist the urge and try to pack smart. <br />What to bring will heavily depend on where and when you are going <br /> <br />•Always bring a pair of pants. You never know when it will cool down at night or you will be in an air-conditioned building all day. Also, if you visit certain countries you will need to wear long pants and a long sleeve shirt as a sign of respect for the culture. <br /> <br />•Bring a couple other items like shorts, Capri-length jeans or pants, skirts that you can mix and match with your tops. <br /> <br />•A variety of tops is your best bet for dealing with changing weather conditions. Choose a couple of tank tops, t-shirts, and even a couple of long sleeve shirts. Layering is key in most places. Keep in mind that some countries require women to never show skin. In places like Italy, if you want to get into a basilica they will turn you away if you have bare shoulders. So plan ahead on days you may go sightseeing. <br /><br />•Always pack a sweatshirt or hoodie for nighttime or cooler days. <br /> <br />•If rain is predicted, a waterproof anorak can keep you dry without making you too hot due. They usually fold up quite nicely for easy packing. <br /> <br />•Always pack a week’s worth of underwear. If your trip is longer, plan on doing a load of laundry. At last resort, you can always hand wash them in your hotel. Don’t forget bras too! <br /> <br />•Socks are key for keeping feet warm in cold weather and keeping feet dry and blister-free in hot weather. Bring a week’s worth and follow the washing rule for anything beyond this. <br /> <br />•Bring a swimsuit or two if you plan on doing any water activities. If you plan on being in the water frequently, having two may be better so you can let one dry while you wear the other one. Also, if you’re doing active water activities you may want a one-piece suit so you don’t have any wardrobe malfunctions. <br /> <br />•Never underestimate when you will need a swimsuit. Even in places like Antarctica, there are warm hot springs! <br /><br />•Don’t forget a cute cover-up or wrap for your afternoon by the pool. Wraps are multi-functional anyway, so be creative! <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Shoes:</span> Yes, shoes are great but your new adorable gold sandals do not need to make the trek to Austria in winter. Pack smart in this category as shoes take up more room than you think. If possible, wear your bulkiest pair of shoes on the plane. <br /> <br />•A pair of athletic shoes will probably come in handy sometime during your trip whether it’s hiking in the Andes or using the hotel’s workout facility. If you plan on doing anything adventurous, shoes like this are highly recommend and sometimes even required for safety reasons. <br /><br />•Bring a pair of inexpensive flip-flop sandals for protecting your feet from heat and bacteria in gyms, pool/spa areas, public showers, and hot sand at the beaches. <br /> <br />•If the climate is colder, snowy, or rainy, bring a sturdy pair of waterproof boots. Shearling boots are also great for warmth, but make sure they are protected with Scotchguard. <br /> <br />•If you are going near an ocean, lake, or river, consider getting a pair of mesh-type shows that allow you to walk in the water but also protect your feet from sharp rocks and slippery surfaces. <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Jewelry and Accessories: </span>Traveling does not mean you have to put a halt on accessorizing just find items that can work with multiple outfits. Bring one or two belts (perhaps, brown and black) and keep earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings to a minimum. Also, keep any flashy jewelry (even it is cubic zirconium) at home. <br /> <br />•Always remember sunglasses, even in snowy destinations, where the sun can reflect through the clouds off the ice and onto your face. <br /> <br />•If you must travel with your expensive jewelry, NEVER check it with your luggage unless you have insurance because once in goes through customs you’re never going to see it again. <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Toiletries: </span>You can rely on the hotel for the basics, but if you’re used to a certain brand, you may want to bring it yourself. Also, don’t stress out too much as you should be able to purchase the item, or a local variation, at a local store. <br /> <br />•All the basics for your hair: shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, styling products, brush/comb, hair ties and clips. <br /> <br />•Body and face lotion. <br /> <br />•Sunscreen for your body and face. Be sure to use it everyday! <br /> <br />•Dental care: toothbrush with case or travel toothbrush, toothpaste (bring a large one and share it with the group or opt for a small tube), dental floss, small bottle of mouth rinse. <br /><br />•If you wear contacts be sure to bring enough for your trip and an additional week’s supply, solution, and a case. If glasses are part of your routine, bring them in their case with a small repair kit. <br /><br />•Make-up: foundation, powder, eye shadows, eye liner, mascara and lash curler, blush, lip gloss/lipstick. Bring only what you usually bring, not your whole arsenal! Also, check out the packs of make-up that include eye, lip, and cheek product in complimentary colors...great space saver! <br /> <br />•Deodorant is always a must! Baby powder works too. <br /> <br />•If you are a fan of perfume, bring smaller bottles or samples from department stores. <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">General tips for toiletries: </span><br /><br />•<a href="http://jerristephenson.blogspot.com/2007/08/travel-bags-for-your-carry-on.html">Plastic bags</a> for everything! <br /> <br />•Look for screw tops over pumps as they are less prone to spills. <br /> <br />•Before packing, gently squeeze the bottle and then lock the top. This will provide an air cushion for the product and it will be less likely to explode in your suitcase. <br /> <br />•To save room buy empty travel size containers to keep things like shampoo, conditioner and lotion in. It will make a huge difference in space. Enough to add an extra pair of shoes! <br /> <br />•If you’re backpacking, you’re not going to need a lot of toiletries, hairdryers, curling or flat irons. When in doubt, leave it out! <br /> <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Electronics: </span>Electronic gadgets can definitely fill some time during your trip and can also help you make the most of your experiences. <br /> <br />•A camera is a must. Whether it is disposable, 35mm, or digital, you will want to capture the sights and scenery of the places you have visited. Be sure to bring the necessary extras: batteries, chargers, film, memory cards, and most of all, protective cases with straps. <br /> <br />•A video camera is another gadget that can allow you to bring your trip home. However, take into consideration that this is an expensive piece of equipment that has to be carried and protected at all times. <br /> <br />•Consider a camera-video combo if you’re in the market for something new. Two-in-one is a definite space saver! <br /> <br />•Bringing a laptop computer is completely optional and typically, not recommend unless explicitly needed (study abroad). For those Internet-fanatics, rest assured that most countries are flooded with Internet cafes. <br /> <br />•Pack a set of binoculars if you will be going anywhere to look for animals or birds. <br /> <br />•A portable DVD player with a couple of your favorite DVDs can be a great distraction for the perils of air travel. Although most laptops can play DVDs, a portable DVD player costs a lot less and tends to be smaller. Don’t forget chargers! <br /> <br />•MP3 and CD players are great for long journeys. Also, make a note that most airlines have in-flight music now. Check their websites to see if anything peaks your interest. <br /> <br />•Cell Phones are good to bring so that you can make calls when you are at domestic gateways. Once you’re international, most US phones will not work, however, some carriers still get service that will give you the local time. <br /> <br />•With any of the above items, be sure to check out the voltage of the outlet as well as the type of prongs that go into a wall. To use an item you bought in the United States, you will need two converters to use it abroad: one for voltage and one for the wall. Look for a pack that contains multiple prongs so you can use it for all your travels. Even if it looks like you can plug it in but you know it’s a different voltage-DON’T! You risk blowing up your appliances and maybe even blowing out the breakers! <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Extras:</span><br /> <br />•Ear Plugs: Even if you do not normally use them, a seat near the engine or a crying baby will make you glad you had them. <br /> <br />•Eye Mask: This can block out a bright movie screen and let you have a good night’s rest. Also can come in handy in your hotel. <br /> <br />•Flannel Pillow Case: Makes that airline pillow a little more like home. Also can be used at your hotel in lieu of that starchy white pillowcase. <br /><br />•Toothbrush/Toothpaste: If you have a flight with meal service or when you will be going to sleep, this can instantly give you a wave of freshness, especially if there is a cute boy sitting next to you. <br /> <br />•Slippers/Socks: Depending on what type of shoes you wore on the plane, bring slippers and/or socks to keep your feet warm. Slippers will also make that walk to the bathroom that much more sanitary. <br /> <br />•Entertainment: Be sure to bring magazines, books, music players (CD or MP3 players), paper and a pen, and other items to entertain yourself. Never rely on the in-flight movie! <br /> <br />•If you wear contacts, bring your glasses, contact solution, and your contact case with you on the plane. As unglamorous as it might seem, your eye will thank you for sparing them of the dryness and pressure. <br /> <br />•Zippered Carry-On Bag: Nothing is worse than when you are flying and your carry on spills under your seat or in the overhead compartment with all your belongings inside. <br /> <br />•Water! Especially when flying, anything else you drink will either dehydrate you or make you sick. <br /> <br />•Layer your clothes. If you are wearing a tank top, t-shirt and have a sweatshirt you add/subtract as needed. Sweatshirts are sometimes even better than pillows! <br /> <br />•Lotion: Traveling dehydrates your skin and you will smell better after that 14 hour flight! <br /> <br /></span><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/podcastbackpacker"><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~fc/podcastbackpacker?bg=99CCFF&fg=444444&anim=1" height="26" width="88" style="border:0" alt="" /></a></div>Jerrihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01639080097710154078noreply@blogger.com0