One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel

Oh what a difference a year makes

2010-12-22T15:14:00.000-08:00

This post is here: http://www.jerrigirl.com

Do It While You're Young

2009-12-30T07:13:00.000-08:00

My best friend, Kristina, and I have been writing Do It While You're Young: The Travel Guide for the Modern Girl for about 5 years. 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 DIWYY.com for more stories and advice on traveling the world. We're also on Facebook at facebook.com/DIWYY. Happy Travels friends!

Where have I been?

2009-02-13T14:58:00.000-08:00

These days I'm moving more around the interwebs than around the world. For my latest whereabouts please visit me at my new One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel blog.

6 random things

2008-11-16T20:02:00.000-08:00

Eloy 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 Imelda

1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on the blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag six people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know they have been tagged.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.

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?).
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.

My tags are:

Maggie
Karina
Kerry
Glen
Brian
Kristina

If I don't travel, am I not me?

2008-09-20T10:30:00.000-07:00

At the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa
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.

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.
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?

Antigua, Caribbean

Finally! San Francisco and San Jose

2008-09-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

I 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!

I had no idea what to expect. In my head, San Francisco is home to On The Road, beatnik types like Jack Kerouac and Full House.

Friday

I arrived at the San Jose airport around eight where Kristina picked me up and took me down to Santana Row for dinner at Thea's. 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.

Afterward we went to the Hotel Valencia 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.

Saturday

We woke up early and drove to San Francisco from San Jose. Of course, I had to stop at Google and get a picture.

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.

We ate at a cute coffee/wine cafe and explored the city seeing all the touristy spots before taking our luggage to the hotel- Westin in Union Square- and getting some rest before our big night on the town.

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 Slide. 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.

Sunday

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.

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 Fortino Winery where we had some amazing Almond Champagne. Next we made our way to Sycamore Creek Vineyards where we jumped in their vineyards.

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. 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.")

Monday

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!

Ft. Lauderdale Pedicab accident on New Year's Eve

2008-03-02T12:27:00.001-08:00

Some of you who are yachties or people who work in the yachting industry know of The Boaters TV and the show's former host, Julie Perry who is also the author of The Insiders' Guide to Becoming a Yacht Stewardess: Confessions from My Years Afloat with the Rich and Famous.

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 http://blog.myspace.com/jewelswoolf.

I love the Body Deli

2008-01-06T13:07:00.001-08:00

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 Mongoose Junction 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.

Luckily, the original Body Deli is still around and even better they ship their products! The owner even has a blog, The Cosmetic Chef! Great name, great branding, overall great marketing!

Benazir Bhutto

2007-12-27T17:30:00.000-08:00

I gasped out loud this morning when I went to the New York Times website and learned of Benazir Bhutto's assassination. Five years ago I was fortunate enough to hear Bhutto give a speech for the Center for Building Community at my university, Abilene Christian. Since then I've been a supporter and follower of her life, but sadly today that ended.

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.

Airline Commercials

2007-12-15T09:02:00.000-08:00

I'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...

Not really an ad, but my favorite:

So many places, so little money

2007-10-17T17:33:00.000-07:00

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 tour which usually isn't my style but I thought I'd give it a try this time. Highlights of the tour include:

* Beijing
* Great Wall
* Forbidden City
* Xian
* Terracotta Warriors
* Shanghai

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:

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?

Houston Has Redeemed Itself-Sort Of

2007-10-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

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.

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. Regina Spektor will be at Warehouse Live on November 7 and Silverchair will be at Meridian on November 28.

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!

Bombing in the Maldives

2007-09-30T00:36:00.001-07:00

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.

The explosions occurred in the capital of Male in a park outside the national museum and injured 12 tourists-2 Japanese, 2 British and 8 Chinese. Apparently, this is the first bombing ever on this island. The government has not commented on possible suspects or motives.

One of my favorite resort and spa chains and subject of my obsessions Six Senses, has a resort called Soneva Gili 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.

Additionally, in researching the Maldives bombing I came across a very cool blog, The Official Private Islands Blog, which I intend to check out often now.

WFNX 101.7 Boston

2007-09-16T15:14:00.000-07:00

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, Silverchair "Straight Lines."

Women Traveling Solo Should Not Be an Issue

2007-09-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

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?

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?

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.

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.

Miami to St. Maarten Only $178

2007-09-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

American Airlines has a NetSaaver deal 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.

This is such a great deal, so I hope if you can get the time off you can take advantage of this offer!

Lucy's Here in Houston

2007-08-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

Lucy's Legacy: The Hidden Treasures of Ethiopia 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.

Best Radio Station in the World!

2007-08-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

Every year when I go down to the Virgin Islands I get excited because I get to listen to this 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?

Hurricane Warning for Caribbean

2007-08-16T17:50:00.000-07:00

The National Hurricane Center has issued a Hurricane warning for the islands of St. Lucia, Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Martinique.

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.

Entertainment: Shirley Heights, Antigua

2007-08-09T13:04:00.000-07:00

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.

Some ole, same ole.

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 Shirley Heights.

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!

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!

Luxury Travel: Featured St. Barts Hotels

2007-08-07T21:26:00.000-07:00

Tom Beach Hotel 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.

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.

Of course, the hotel has a bar and a restaurant, La Plage, which is the sister restaurant to Ti St-Barth.

Travel Frequently Asked Questions

2007-08-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some frequently asked questions answered in mine and Kristina's book, Do It While You're Young: A Travel Guide for the Modern Girl.

What kind of luggage should I take?

It all depends on where you’re going and what you need to take with you. 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.

Isn’t it unsafe for young women to travel?

Absolutely not! As with anywhere you go in your own city, 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.

How much time to I need to travel?

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.

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!)

A big group of us want to travel together? How is that going to work?

Well, it may take a little more planning on everyone’s part to get the logistics right, but it is definitely doable.

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!

Shouldn’t I wait to travel until after I have retired?

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?

Will traveling now be a bad career decision?

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.

Won’t I feel lonely?

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.

What if I don’t know what to do?

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!

What if I don’t know anyone?

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.

Am I too young?

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!

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.

Am I too old?

Of course not!

Where should I go?

Use your imagination. The possibilities are endless! In chapter 3 we will discuss possible destinations.

What if I get lost?

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!

What if I get sick?

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.

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.

What if I don’t speak the language?

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!

What about my friends and family back home?

We will give you tips in Chapter 10 on how to keep in contact with friends and family while you are on your journey.

What if I don’t have enough money?

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.

Think and Get Paid to Travel

2007-08-05T17:48:00.000-07:00

I 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.

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.

Ricks Steves interview on being a travel writer in Transitions Abroad.

Rolf Potts offers advice on how to become a travel writer.

Jen Leo offers tons of advice for travel writers on Written Road.

Thinking About Antarctica?

2007-08-03T21:11:00.000-07:00

Norwegian Coastal Voyages has a special going on right now:

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 here for more information.

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.

Do You Really Need All Those Bags?

2007-08-03T20:33:00.000-07:00

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.

Essentials:

•Passport (for international) or Government-issued Photo ID (for domestic flights)
•Any Visas or money for Visas, entry, or exit fees
•Airline tickets
•Hotel Information: Address, Phone Number, Reservation Number.
•Cash

Luggage: 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).

Clothing: 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.
What to bring will heavily depend on where and when you are going

•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.

•Bring a couple other items like shorts, Capri-length jeans or pants, skirts that you can mix and match with your tops.

•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.

•Always pack a sweatshirt or hoodie for nighttime or cooler days.

•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.

•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!

•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.

•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.

•Never underestimate when you will need a swimsuit. Even in places like Antarctica, there are warm hot springs!

•Don’t forget a cute cover-up or wrap for your afternoon by the pool. Wraps are multi-functional anyway, so be creative!

Shoes: 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.

•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.

•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.

•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.

•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.

Jewelry and Accessories: 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.

•Always remember sunglasses, even in snowy destinations, where the sun can reflect through the clouds off the ice and onto your face.

•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.

Toiletries: 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.

•All the basics for your hair: shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, styling products, brush/comb, hair ties and clips.

•Body and face lotion.

•Sunscreen for your body and face. Be sure to use it everyday!

•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.

•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.

•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!

•Deodorant is always a must! Baby powder works too.

•If you are a fan of perfume, bring smaller bottles or samples from department stores.

General tips for toiletries:

•Plastic bags for everything!

•Look for screw tops over pumps as they are less prone to spills.

•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.

•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!

•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!

Electronics: Electronic gadgets can definitely fill some time during your trip and can also help you make the most of your experiences.

•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.

•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.

•Consider a camera-video combo if you’re in the market for something new. Two-in-one is a definite space saver!

•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.

•Pack a set of binoculars if you will be going anywhere to look for animals or birds.

•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!

•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.

•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.

•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!

Extras:

•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.

•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.

•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.

•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.

•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.

•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!

•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.

•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.

•Water! Especially when flying, anything else you drink will either dehydrate you or make you sick.

•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!

•Lotion: Traveling dehydrates your skin and you will smell better after that 14 hour flight!

I love Atlanta!

2007-08-03T18:37:00.000-07:00

I just got back from my annual trip to Atlanta, GA. Every time I go I wonder why I don't live there. This time was no exception. My best friend, Rose, took me out to some great coffee houses, restaurants and venues while there.

I love the Spicy Chicken Pad Thai and Edamame at Doc Chey's Noodle House.

We also visited Octane Coffee House which was voted the best coffee house in Atlanta for 2007 by Creative Loafing readers. They were having a nut tasting while I was there. Yes, as in pecans, peanuts, most other kinds of nuts.

Another great coffee house that I went to last time I was in Atlanta and returned to this time as well was JavaVino. This coffee house also doubles as a wine bar. Every other Sunday they have wine tastings featuring wines from various regions.

We had dinner one night at Apres Diem, a coffee house and bistro. Food was delicious and the atmosphere was very trendy. I recommend the Nicoise Salad.

My last morning there we had breakfast at Highland Bakery which had a nice rustic, loft-y, bright and airyness to it. I had a delicious omelette with spinach and goat cheese along with coffee with soy milk. I felt healthy.

Travel Bags for your carry on!

2007-08-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

Kiss My Zipz has some colorful and fun zippered plastic bags that fit the TSA 311 guidelines for carry-ons.

Bag Features

* Set of 5 bags w /same design
* clear, plastic bag
* quart size
* blue print & zipper
* extra-thick
* Meets Airport Security Guidelines for carry-on items

It Can Happen Anywhere!

2007-08-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

Today was just another day in the fight against Houston crime as I, Jerri Stephenson, fought the bad guys fist to fist and came out pretty much a loser.

You know how when you're driving down the street and pull up to a red light where a disheveled man or woman is standing on the curb asking for money or any help possible? Well, they are all over Houston and I'm tired of giving them my money. I'm sure some of them make more than I do. In fact, I know they do! They should be giving ME money. Today I resolved to help them in other ways... I decided to give them granola bars.

I stopped in at Krogers on my way home today to buy granola bars which I have decided to hand out to the people standing on the side of the road. Now, I can no longer avert my eyes, while feeling ashamed and pretending I don't see the people standing by my driver's side window asking for help. I will help them. I will give them nutritious chocolate chip granola bars.

While in Kroger I decided that if these people are hungry they are probably thirsty and hot standing out there all day in the Houston heat and humidity. So I decided to buy a 24-bottle case of Ozarka water to give them water as well. As I'm walking out to my car in the parking lot with the case of water bottles in my arms while in my head patting myself on the back for how smart and good I am to be so helpful I notice some suspicious guys hovering around my Jeep. As I walk closer I see that they have knocked out the window on my rear driver's side window and are reaching into my car for whatever they can reach.

They see me walking toward them and begin to quickly jump into their getaway car which is backed in beside mine. They have the doors open and one of the guys is getting into the back seat quickly on the side closest to me. Not really knowing how to confront these guys who have broken into my car I do the next logical thing: I throw the case of water at the head of the guy closest to me and begin pounding him with it! He fights me but I keep hitting him as hard as I can with the water until finally the drivers start driving off and I fall back onto the pavement into the glass from my window. I watch the guys drive off and reach for my phone to take a picture of the car and license plate only to realize I don't have a picture phone!

The guys are driving a maroon Buick but instead of a license plate it just has a "Carmax" sign for a license. I think to myself, "how convenient."

I don't know what to do next because my hands and arm are bleeding so I realize I need to call 911. When the police woman arrives she shakes her head in disbelief as I tell her what happened. I can't tell her what the guys all look like because I was too busy pounding one of the guys head with water bottles! Another car was broken into the day before she tells me but there are no witnesses. I tell her that I guess I wasn't afraid because the guys looked like "normal" guys. Not like "thugs" or criminals. She says that if the guys had broken in and stolen anything it would have been a simple misdemeanor but because I actually fought the guys and was hurt it became robbery and assault which is a FELONY! She writes up the report and says to me, "There are two things I want to tell you: What you did was incredible brave and the bad guys don't always look like thugs. They could have stabbed you, shot you or pulled you into the car, taken you with them, raped you and killed you." In other words, you were incredibly brave and incredibly stupid!

So, the good news is I caught the guys in time that nothing was stolen. The bad news is it's probably going to be about $1500 to replace the window and my insurance deductible is $1000.

So after all the drama is over and I'm on my way home with my broken window and a bloody arm, I pull up to a red light with a guy sitting on an upside down bucket on the side of the road. I roll down the window and with my still bloody arm I hand the guy a granola bar and bottle of water. He looks at it, throws it on the ground and asks me for a dollar!

Reverse Culture Shock: Coping with the Return Home after Extended Travel

2007-07-26T10:54:00.001-07:00

After an extended period of time traveling away from home, how does one adjust to returning back to "normal" life?

For me it was really difficult to return back to Texas after traveling the world for three years. I've finally managed to wake up in the mornings and instantly figure out what bed I'm in and what city I'm in (my own and Houston are the correct answers) as opposed to waking up in my bunk in my coffin sized cabin on a yacht anchored off some Caribbean island that we arrived to that morning.

It hasn't been easy adjusting to normal life, but here are a few suggestions I have for fellow travelers trying to fit into society:

1. Know What to Expect

Get ready before you even return home. Know that life is just going to be different and so are you.

2. Establish a routine

The best way to begin re-familiarizing yourself with your own culture is to get into a similar routine that you had before you left. Before I moved to St. Maarten I would attend church on Sundays and then go to Starbucks afterward as my reward for actually making myself go to church! When I moved away to the Caribbean, I lost this routine. Since I have come back to the states, I've returned to this routine and I find it comforting. Obviously, you don't have to do what I've done, but think back to a routine you had before you left, say movie night every Friday with a group of friends. There is comfort in routine and you might find this as a good option to the return of "normalcy." This behavior also gives you a sense of control. More than likely you are going to feel a little out of whack with the rest of society for a while.

3. Surround Yourself with Friends and Family

You will find that most things will be the same as when you left, but a few things will have changed. Maybe your friends will have moved, gone through changes in their own lives, but the basic values that you and your friends shared that made you friends in the first place have likely not changed. After all, they have known you your whole life while the new friends you made while traveling only have known you for a few days or months. They may not really know you at all other than you are good with finding the best pubs to crawl.

While you may have different understandings and beliefs since you left, you are still in many ways the same. Your core has not changed. Surrounding yourself with friends and family will breed a familiarity that you may not have had in a while. Your friends and family will give you a sense of balance that's necessary for re-adjustment. Try not to talk too much about how great it was to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre or how you went to the best party ever on New Years in Thailand. You'll only alienate yourself because they just won't understand. Only fellow travelers will really understand you then.

4. Keep in Touch

Stay in contact with your friends that you made while traveling. If they have returned home too, they are probably going through the same feelings of reverse culture shock as you. They are the ones that you can re-hash your travel tales.

5. Stay Busy

Don't sit around mourning that you've returned home from a fun filled adventure never to return again(like I did!). Allow yourself to get out there and experience your new city and to find new friends.

6. Recognize You're Not Alone

Remember that experiencing difficulty in re-adjusting to home is very common. You may find yourself getting upset with "how things are done" back home. This is normal. Try to look at your own culture with the same open-mindedness you had when you were traveling to new countries. Realize that in time, you can manage to re-adjust to your home while keeping the great experiences and life lessons that you had while traveling and remain the same person with just a little more understanding than the rest.

Budget Travel: Featured Caribbean Inn

2007-07-24T00:16:00.000-07:00

The Pineapple House is quite popular in the Antigua yachtie scene, but it's not just yachties that stay there.

Built along the side of a hill amoungst beautiful landscaped trees and flowers, the open air cottages have a million dollar view of multi million dollar yachts docked in Falmouth Harbour.

The cottages are open and breezy, you'll never need air conditioning. The most beautiful beaches on the island are a five minute walk in one direction and the best nightlife and shopping on the island are five minutes away in the other direction.Rates start at $1,100 a week in November. The Pineapple House is only open November 15 to May 15.

Working on a Yacht FAQs

2007-07-23T23:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Jerri,
I accidently stumbled upon your blogspot after I googled "yacht crew and antigua"....haha anyways...I graduate from the university of florida next saturday, and my plan is to head down to the caribbean and work in yachting like you did....and i'm also pretty much flat broke like you were when you went to barcelona ( i listened to your podcast)...i've been down to fort lauderdale and have registered with the crewing agencies and everything, and i've gotten offers to work on boats,but i havent been able to accept any because of school. i love st maarten to pieces (i went there on vacation with my family about 3 years ago and fell in love with the yachting industry, and had a great time hanging out with all the yachties!), and i'm considering buying a one way ticket to the island. since lived there before, i was wondering what you think the chances of me finding a job are? i'm very torn because i love the caribbean and want to work there and i'm worried that if i stay here in fort lauderdale i'll miss my chances of getting work that goes to the caribbean because its not exactly the high season any more.....anyways, any advice you can give me would be greatly appreciated.....thanks!!

Congratulations on graduation! Working on a yacht is the perfect just out of college job in my opinion. Why don't you save yourself the money and get a yacht to fly you out to St. Martin instead of buying one yourself or find a boat delivery leaving from Ft. Lauderdale? If you go to St. Martin on your own, where would you stay? There are crew houses there in St. Martin, but I never stayed at them so I can't recommend any. Hotels are going to be pretty expensive. But you must know that to fly in to Antigua or SXM you MUST have a roundtrip ticket. It's required. If you get to the airport and check in and they see you don't have a return ticket you'll be required to buy one there or they won't issue you a ticket at all. And you'll pay full price for it!

High season starts in November and the boats start crewing up in September and October to go to the Caribbean. There is lots of work there, it's just a matter of working hard to find it...walking the docks and talking to the yachties. A lot of boats will be leaving from Ft. Lauderdale soon just in time to arrive in St. Martin to have the owners on board for Christmas and New Years. They are looking for crew to do deliveries.

I wish you the very best of luck! I know you're going to find a job really easily. I definitely do not think you are going to miss your chance in the Caribbean and you are going to have the time of your life!! Good luck, and please keep me updated!

Hi Jerri!
I'm a fellow traveler writing for a bit of advice. i'm leaving minneapolis (managing a hostel and working at a co-op), and want to possibly get into yacht work like yourself... can you recommend any means of getting started, if possible, this time of year?

Glad to help! First, I recommend checking out some crew agency websites. They list the positions available on yachts, typical salaries and what to expect. You can register with the agencies for free, interview with them in person or over the phone, and they will look to place you on a yacht. The usual ways people start on yachts is by working as either a deckhand, stewardess or chef or combo of all three! These are the agencies that I worked with. They are all located in Ft. Lauderdale.

http://www.crewunlimited.com
http://www.carolemanto.com
http://www.luxyachts.com

Now is a good time to start looking for work for the Caribbean season when all the yachts will looking to crew up to head to St. Martin, St. Barts, Antigua and the USVI. Some yachts will fly you out of whereever you are (minneapolis) or your best bet is to go to Ft. Lauderdale. You can day work there while looking for a full time job and pulling in anywhere between $10-15/hr. And if you need a place to stay there are crew houses where all the yacht crew go while looking for work.

http://www.maryscrewhouse.com

Great for networking and so much fun! Basically, they're hostels. Anyway, check these sites out. They should be really helpful. Remember it's really hard work, but the payoffs are so worth it! Best of luck to you and let me know how it goes!

Laurel Canyon, LA, CA

2007-07-21T09:13:00.000-07:00

A few months back I got lost on a drive from Santa Monica to Beverly Hills. Most people who know their way around would think that's crazy, but it's sad and true. Somehow I found myself in Laurel Canyon. At the time, I didn't really know what Laurel Canyon was but driving through it I thought to myself, "I would have never imagined to find a place like this right here in LA."

This video with Michael Walker, author of Laurel Canyon, talks about the history of Laurel Canyon and a little bit about what this surprising and refreshing little community tucked back in the hills of LA.

My favorite Caribbean bars (I'm a former yachtie. I'm well qualified)

2007-07-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

I talk a lot about my favorite hotels on One Girl, but I never talk about my favorite bars. Maybe because it's a part of my life I'd like to forget...if only I could remember! So here's the top 6.

Foxy's, Jost Van Dyke, BVI

Quite popular with the yachtie crowd and majorly popular with with the New Year's crowd. Foxy's is big time, even though it's on the smallest of the four main BVI islands.

Sunset Beach Bar, St. Maarten

Watch the beautiful sunset in St. Maarten and get sand blasted by Air France taking off at the airport all at the same time. For some reason, people seem to love this.

Skullduggery's, Antigua

Watch out for their espresso martinis...they're lethal, but in a good way!

Duffy's Love Shack, St. Thomas, USVI

Famous bar with the best nightlife in St. Thomas.

Woody's, St. John, USVI

Kinda feels like a college bar and grill. Hang around long enough and you might catch a glimpse of Kenny Chesney

Soggy Dollar Bar, Jost Van Dyke, BVI

Home of the original Painkiller. Why is it called the Soggy Dollar? Apparently, sailors can't get their tenders into shore easily so they just anchor out and swim to shore. Then they have to pay for their drinks with soggy, wet dollars.

Philanthropic Travel: Why didn't I think of that?

2007-07-20T18:13:00.000-07:00

I'm secretly harboring the fantasy that one day I will grow up to be like Angelina Jolie. Ha! Who am kidding? Isn't everyone? I admire her for a lot of obvious reasons, but mostly I like her because of her heart. I love her love for Africa. I also love Oprah's love for Africa. Both of these women recognize the beauty of the African people and beauty of that continent. It's so magical it can only be seen to be truly understood. The amazing thing about these women is that they have achieved so much success in wealth and in their careers, but they give so much of their time and money to those less fortunate.

The other day I was talking to my best friend, Kristina, who just recently came back from Nairobi and Zanzibar. I was telling her about Exquisite Safaris and what a great idea I think it is to introduce people to the communities they are visiting. She agreed that philanthropic travel is a great idea, because she has actually been looking for tours like these but couldn't find them. Often times, when someone wants to travel to another country and volunteer at an orphanage or school they must stay in a budget accommodations. Not everyone wants to sacrifice in that way and that's completely understandable. Someday, if I can afford it, I plan on traveling this way, too. Until then, I'm completely content with sleeping in the back of my jeep or dorms with 12 other people all snoring in unison. Would Oprah and Angelina travel like this? Hmm, doubtful. So, why haven't more tour operators and the travel industry catered more to people who want to volunteer in under served communities while on their travels but who don't want to sacrifice some creature comforts? I think that Exquisite Safaris is definitely on to something big!

Eco Travel: Featured Caribbean Tree House Accommodation

2007-07-18T17:50:00.000-07:00

If you've always dreamed of living in a tree house here's your opportunity to try it on for size. 3 Rivers Eco-lodge on the Caribbean island of Dominica is a unique and adventurous place to stay on your next island vacation.

Nestled in the heart of the Dominican rainforest, 3 Rivers Eco-Lodge offers a variety of choices for accommodation. From private cabins, camping areas, dormitories, home stays and even a treehouse in the sky, the independent traveler looking for an alternative experience is sure to not be disappointed.

Electricity and heated rainwater showers are available and provided by the solar panals installed on property.

If you are looking for a true and affordable return to nature, you should definitely check out 3 Rivers Eco-Lodge. Then again, shouldn't nature always be affordable?

Disclaimer: This post sounds like I'm being paid for it! I'm not! It just came out that way!

Best islands to live on

2007-07-18T15:11:00.000-07:00

Islands, the magazine, has a top 20 islands to live on list in their July/August issue. While I have lived on an island, St. Martin, West Indies (French and Dutch sides), and spent a lot of time on other Caribbean islands (On getting Island fever; Losing Identity in St. Thomas; St. Thomas USVI; Off to St. John, USVI), I swore I would never do it or think about it again. In my opinion, living on an island is fantastic in theory, but not so wonderful once in reality. I'm torn between this opinion and my absolute love for the ocean and beautiful beaches. So I've concluded that I could be happy with just owning a very tiny cottage on a small lot of land right on the beach. Once again, this is best if practiced in my imagination, because beach front land is so expensive and hard to find. If I ever do carry out this fantasy my requirements are that the island must be easily accessible. Meaning I don't want to have to fly to the main island, then take a ferry to the next island and then take a puddle jumper to the next closest island, then take a tender to my wonderfully secluded beach front getaway on a paradise island. Because what if I forgot to go grocery shopping on the main island and the only store on my island is sold out until the next shipment arrives arrives in two weeks? I guess if my cottage was fully staffed year round with chefs, housekeeping and massage therapists who can think ahead for me I could survive, just like Richard Branson's Necker Island. Where was I going with this? Oh, yeah. Best islands to live on...

The top twenty islands are:
Penang, Malaysia
Dominica
Utila, Honduras
Pico, Azores, Portugal
Aruba
Vanuatu
St. Kitts
New Zealand
Taveuni, Fiji
Long Island, Bahamas
Union Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Big Island, Hawaii
Norfolk Island, Australia
Cedar Key, Florida
Isla Colon, Panama

I've actually considered Dominica, I have a strong dislike of the Bahamas (although the people are nice), and I've always been in love with New Zealand. And why would I want to live on an island that is essentially Florida? Although, I do like Key West, but it's not on the list. I think I could handle New Zealand, but Dominica just seems too small for me.

The factors considered when compiling the list ranged from weather, number of expats, and starter housing prices. Fiji prices started at $50,000 for five acres of land near the beach. Too bad it costs a kajillion dollars to get there! Aruba seems pretty reasonable. I was surprised to learn that a three bedroom ranch style house starts at $85,000. Apparently, it's also pretty easy to buy there as long as you can pay cash.

So, there they are. Twenty great islands that are easy to get to and are reasonably affordable. Shh! Don't tell anyone so that the tourists don't catch on, move all at once and ruin the secret hideaways for us real travelers who truly appreciate these places! Let's just keep telling them how great St. Thomas, USVI is!

Never Ending Sun

2007-07-17T00:30:00.000-07:00

These guys have decided to film a never ending sun. Very cute idea. I would help, but I don't wake up in time for the sunrise and I don't intend to start now. But I will post a link to their site and wish them luck!

Never ending sunrise website and blog.

Geotourism is the new travel trend

2007-07-16T23:57:00.000-07:00

Apparently, the newest trend in travel is "geotourism." Just a step beyond ecotourism, geotourism is tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place—its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. So instead of staying in a hotel where all the garbage is made into compost and electricity comes from solar panels, geotourism is more about full immersion into a culture.

In an article on Yahoo Travel called Geotourism trend: Authentic travel, the author points out that geotourism is a type of travel that allows travelers to understand the uniqueness of the places they visit. Instead of seeing McDonald's and Wal-Mart, you go to locally based businesses owned by locals employing locals. Excuse me while I get sarcastic here.

Wow! What a concept! That's what travel is in the first place! Basically, it seems to me that all we have done is go full circle in travel trends. From all-inclusive getaways, to theme parks, to eco-travel, to geo-travel. Although, to me geotourism isn't really a trend, I still definitely support the idea of travel to learn more about other cultures and history. I can't get the book Innocents Abroad by Mark Twain out of my head right now. I will try not to be so cynical and realize that I am just being a travel snob. The redeeming aspect of this article is that they listed links to the center for sustainable travel at my favorite magazine, National Geographic. Maybe it's just a form of marketing: buy the new and improved travel with new packaging. Maybe I should be happy if people embrace the idea of "geotourism" as I have always endorsed travel with purpose. If so, get out there and geotravel, people!

Budget Travel: Featured Caribbean Inn

2007-07-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

Many people don't realize that prices go down significantly during the low season (July 15-November 15) in the Caribbean.

The Turquoise Shell Inn in Simpson Bay, St. Maarten has special rates of only $95 per night or $590 for the week (tax included!). You will get a 1-bedroom suite with a fully equipped kitchen. All rates are based on single or double occupancy. That's an amazing offer!

For more information check out their website.

7 World Wonders

2007-07-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

The 7 World Wonders were announce on 7.7.07. They are:

Great Wall of China, China
Petra, Jordan
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
Machu Picchu, Peru
Chichen Itza, Mexico
Colosseum, Italy
Taj Mahal, India

Sadly, I've never been to any of them!

Problems with blog

2007-07-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

I've made a few changes on my blog recently in my template. Then today I noticed that some of the new feature I installed aren't working. Mainly, my expandable posts (where it says "Read More"). I'm sorry to my readers (all two of you!) for the inconvenience. Hopefully, the blog will be working fine again soon. To access the full post instead of clicking on "read more" you can still click on the heading which will take you to the permalink with the full post.

One Girl Travel.com

2007-07-10T01:48:00.000-07:00

The new site...for now

Travel on Blogher.com

2007-07-06T14:52:00.000-07:00

It always surprises me when I find out that a blogger that I have been reading leaves comments on my page or writes about One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel in their blog.

Pam, travel maven and author at BlogHer and publisher of her own website, Nerd's Eye View, quoted a snippet from my post, Wandering Aimlessly vs. Pursuit of Purpose, in her article, Why Travel? I've been following Pam's writings for a while so I was shocked when I saw my own quote in her July 4th post! Thanks Pam. Love the article! One of my favorite topics!

Changes at the One Girl Blog

2007-07-06T07:54:00.001-07:00

Well, I have some good news! Part of the reason I stopped my podcasts was because I haven't gone anywhere lately so I didn't really have much to talk about (but that is about to change) and partly because I felt that the quality of the podcasts just weren't up to par! The good news is that I have found someone (actually an old friend from high school) who is a Grammy winning producer who has offered to help produce the "One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel" podcasts! He's also offered to do video as well which leads me to more good news.

I have been looking for funding for a while to do a TV show about travel. I wanted to start my show in the Caribbean then move down into Central and South America. Well, I have raised enough funds so far to do a few shows, hire a crew and a CO-HOST! We have the production all line up and now all we need is the crew and possibly some more money (of course, who doesn't need more money?)! My friend's services definitely don't come cheap, but he's known me for a long time and knows I've been wanting to this for at least 10 years! So here's the timeline: Starting in November we'll be leaving for the Caribbean with me, the crew and co-host and begin shooting a few episodes. The episodes will be available at the new website (which is also in development right now). Check back often. I'll keep you updated on the progress!

Happy Independence Day

2007-07-04T17:29:00.000-07:00

This blog is about traveling and I never talk much about my personal life or politics other than things that go on when I'm traveling. I have been to over forty countries and I have liked most of them. When I travel overseas and walk through customs for the first time and I hear them say, "Welcome back to the United States!" it makes me so happy. I love coming home to the States.

In my travels I have met so many people that have so many negative opinions of the United States and I have always defended my country. If we as Americans don't defend our home, who will? I know it's unpopular these days to offer much support for the United States. Even if I don't agree with the beliefs of the president or my neighbors I have the freedom to do so without fear of persecution. (Well, not much at least!) I'm not always proud of the things that happen in America or the things that some people do. But we are a good country, a GREAT country. My grandfathers fought hard for this country so I could have a good life. I love my country. I am proud to be American. I love my fellow Americans. What I wish for our country is that Americans would travel more to other countries and realize how truly blessed we are to have peace and freedom in this country. Happy Fourth of July America!

Send a Child to School in South Africa

2007-07-02T23:20:00.000-07:00

If you've read my blog much you know that I was in South Africa a few years ago and fell in love with Coffee Bay. Here are some of my past blogs from the trip:

Surfing in Coffee Bay, Transkei, South Africa

More South Africa

Letter to dad:South Africa

While I was there I stayed at a backpacker called The Coffee Shack. Not only was the place really comfortable and the people truly friendly, but the the area that The Coffee Shack is located, the Transkei, can be described in no other words except magical. The locals were truly beautiful people. I just loved it there. I honestly didn't want to leave. South Africa is poor, but this area of South Africa is the poorest. I've been thinking for a long time that I wanted to help that area out in some way (Itching to do Something) and now I've found a way.

Coffee Shack has started a scholarship fund for students in the Coffee Bay area to attend senior secondary school. A large percentage of students do not go on to complete their education because there are no secondary schools in the immediate area. The closest school is 20km away. Many of the local families cannot afford to send their children away due to the costs of transport or boarding fees.

Each year Coffee Shack selects one student who will receive a full 3 year scholarship to attend senior school. This scholarship is aimed at the poor and disadvantaged children who would not normally have the chance to attend senior secondary school. The students' background and surrounding circumstances are a deciding factor in the selection process. The scholarship covers annual school fees, uniforms, books, stationery, food and boarding costs amounting to approx R5500 per year.

Here's what I suggest to you dear readers. I'm going to donate at least $100 to the scholarship fund, but I feel that if some of you are interested we can sponsor a student for all three years. I've set up a pay pal account for donations.
PATO JUNIOR SCHOOL FUNDRAISING PROJECT

All we need is $2343 US dollars. So easy! I suggest that if each reader donates $5 or $10, based on the number of visitors this site receives, we will have enough to sponsor a student within six weeks. What do you think? 100% of the donations will be sent to Coffee Shack's Scholarship fund as soon as we receive $2343. I will keep a permanent post with the total on the page so everyone can track progress. Please donate if you can!

Where the Hell is Matt?

2007-07-02T19:28:00.000-07:00

Yahoo has a feature article for their People of the Web series about world traveler Matt Harding who is famous for dancing around the world. Here's one of his videos from his site. How cute is he?

So You Want to Work as Crew on a Yacht? (Part 2)

2007-07-01T14:37:00.001-07:00

Beside the many websites that have information about crewing aboard a yacht, there are actually a few books out there that former yachties have written. The book that got me started in yachting was Crewing Aboard a Superyacht - A Guide to Working Afloat.

This book covers everything you need to know when starting out on a yacht as crew from what kind of luggage to take with you (collapsible) to tips about working out in small places!

Some other books I have seen out there that I wish I had when I was first starting out are

The Insiders' Guide to Becoming a Yacht Stewardess: Confessions from My Years Afloat with the Rich and Famous

and

What Every NEW Yacht Stewardess Should Know!

Obviously these books are geared toward stewardesses but I'm sure they have information for chefs and deckhands as well, especially if you are female.

Links to favorite blogs and websites

2007-06-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

The Lost Boy

Ski and Wine South America

The Rad Blog

Blue Suite Nomads

Hotel Blogs

Work on a Yacht

One Girl, Her Suitcase and Some Airline Miles

Frugal n Fabulous

Karina's Travel Blog

St. Maarten Blog

Anna Overseas

Experiencias Y Aventuras (Experiences and Adventures)

Adventure Divas

Geeky Traveller

Where the Hell is Matt?

The Wheelers: Role Models for Backpackers!

2007-06-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

All backpackers are probably familiar with Lonely Planet and the ones that are really obsessive, like me, know who Tony and Maureen Wheeler are. They are the travelers-turned-publishers turned publishers-who-travel and creators of Lonely Planet Guidebooks.

The Seattle Times recently had an interview with the couple about their new book, Unlikely Destinations: The Lonely Planet Story. In the interview they discuss mixing work and marriage and joke that going on a book tour is a good way to break up a marriage. If they can spend 35 years together traveling around the world, I think it's a safe bet to say that their marriage is solid enough to survive a book tour!

My favorite magazine, National Geographic Adventure Magazine, also has an interview with the couple along with their recommended travel tips in this month's issue.

If you are a big fan of The Wheelers or Lonely Planet you will find this book super interesting. It's an autobiography of the couple detailing their travels and journey into the world of publishing.

One Girl Updates

2007-05-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

My business partner and co-author, Kristina, has her new blog up called Frugal n Fabulous. The premise of the site is to create a community to share tips on saving money and making extra money while not sacrificing a comfortable lifestyle.

In other news, our travel business has a new look, Via Via Travel, is revamped and we are getting ready to begin the Caribbean off-season.

I've already booked an eco-honeymoon in St. John, USVI, in September for a happy couple. The couple requested a weeklong honeymoon for under $1500. We found the perfect place for them at Maho Bay at $80 a night. They are going to have a fabulous time!

Itching to do Something

2007-05-28T17:39:00.001-07:00

I've been all around the world and just about everywhere I go I am inspired. Through traveling I gain a better perspective and respect of the world than I receive at home. Don't know why exactly, but if that is what it takes its OK by me.

Today I was thinking about how much I loved Africa. Of all the places I have been no where else in the world touches my heart the way Africa does. One place in particular that I loved was Coffee Bay, South Africa. I stayed at The Coffee Shack and had the time of my life. I wish that on normal days when I wake up I could feel that same feeling I had when I was there. I would say the feeling was a "joy for life!"

While I think it is going to be a while before I can go back again, I was thinking I would like to give back to the community even when I am not there. I think it would be cool to set up a donation drive to send funds back to Coffee Bay maybe to help some of the school programs there. I am not really sure. I know The Coffee Shack has some programs set up. Does anyone out there know of some programs there that need funding? I want to set up a donation campaign here on my blog. Any ideas out there?

Yacht Hits the Rocks at Cannes

2007-05-20T15:52:00.000-07:00

The Lady Moura, 354' private yacht estimated to be worth $200 million, ran aground in Cannes today. The yacht, owned by a Saudi billionaire, spilled several hundred gallons of fuel and authorities had to evacuate nearby beaches. Fortunately, the boat could be pulled off the rocks by tug boats and repaired enough for the boat to head to Gibralter for more extensive work on the hull.

See the full story here.

My past travel life

2007-05-19T22:55:00.000-07:00

Today I was wishing I was here again:

Magen's Bay, St. Thomas USVI

According to Wikipedia, Magens Bay (18.366° N 64.930° W) is a world-famous beach on Saint Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, located in the Caribbean.

Located on the North (Atlantic) side of the island, Magens Bay is a well-protected white sand beach stretching for nearly a mile. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island.

With its clear water, soft sand, and palm trees, it is commonly considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and National Geographic has recognized it as such.

The beach amenities are managed by a local government agency, the Magens Bay authority. They include lifeguards, a snack counter, bar, souvenir shop, chair and beach toy rentals, windsurf and boat rentals, and showers and bathrooms.

Legend (probably false) has it that Sir Francis Drake used the bay as an anchorage while waiting for ships to plunder.

What's Up With Cruise Ships These Days?

2007-05-14T11:34:00.000-07:00

What's up with all the cruise ships running aground lately?

First there was the Greek cruise ship, "Sea Diamond," that sank off the coast of Santorini, Greece.

Now there is the Alaskan cruise ship, "Empress of the North" that hit a rock south of Juneau.

How does that happen? There are depth radars, maps, officers on watch. How do you miss a huge rock?

easyCruise from $6 per night for 3 nights

2007-04-27T15:51:00.000-07:00

easyCruise is offering a deal on their May 1 cruise embarking in Antwerp departing in Amsterdam on May 4 starting at $6 per person per night. Rooms are standard twin with a window (a real one!).

If Belgium and the Netherlands aren't your thing, easyCruise also has cruises planned for this Summer in the Greek Islands from $38 a night or in Classical Greece for around $42 in the Fall.

Working Around the World

2007-04-26T16:11:00.000-07:00

I have written a little about ideas on ways to work your way around the world, but Laptop Hobo, has made an entire website dedicated to the subject of continuing your career while traveling and living anywhere in the world. LH co-Founders Richard Hamel and Carmen Bolanos are both professionals and avid travelers having lived and made a living in many countries. The site is filled with great resources and information on equipment you will need in order to set-up your office while on the road.

They even have an article, The New Nomads, recently written about them in Business Week.

Life as a Deckie Aboard a Private Yacht

2007-04-26T03:19:00.000-07:00

Found another blog from a yachtie. This time he's a Kiwi deckhand floating around the world aboard megayachts. Pretty interesting. Plus some beautiful photography of New Zealand thrown in.

Update: After checking out his website some more, I realized we used to be neighbors in St. Martin in Simpson Bay. Such a small world! Even smaller when you're a yachtie!

Life as a Chef Aboard a Private Yacht

2007-04-23T01:31:00.000-07:00

I found another yachtie out there on the web. Niall's site, The Life of a Private Chef has a lot of video footage of St. Martin, Antigua and other some places in the Med. Looks like he's retired from yachting like me, but you can still follow his adventures in the archives!

Wandering Aimlessly vs. Pursuit of Purpose

2007-04-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

I thought I would address this comment from Liara on my post Perfect Travel Dream Job

It sounds like you have visited some very memorable places. Why so many countries? Did you sense you were wandering aimlessly or were you on a quest for a particular purpose? I think readers would look forward to hearing more about what you have learned through travel.

I thought this was a really great comment. Sometimes I have felt aimless when traveling. Maybe I have traveled so much to fill a void. I look at it as I have an insatiable desire to know everything! Ask any of my friends and they will tell you how incredibly annoying this is. Maybe it's annoying for them, but it is endless for me! So the answer is both. I have wandered aimlessly and in pursuit of something. Traveling is like peeling an onion. There are so many layers to discover.

I did have a goal to travel to all seven continents before I turned 25. I made it to six. Going to so many countries has just been to see new cultures. I was not necessarily trying to break any records!

In traveling independently I have learned to rely on myself. I know what I can handle and what I can't. I know the good about myself and I know the absolute worst. In addition, I have learned the good and bad about others. I have experienced incredible kindness from strangers. Fortunately, I have never had anything truly life threatening happen to me-other than being attacked by elephants in South Africa while in my car! Mostly, I have seen how beautiful this world is. I have watched incredible sunsets while on a boat out in the middle of the ocean and felt like the time was standing still and the world was in absolute peace. Nature and people are inspiring. I have seen poverty in third world countries that would break the souls of most and in the eyes of children who lived there I saw hope.

Africa changed my life (I have heard people say the same about India). It changed how I view the world. I can't describe it now, but my way of thinking completely shifted when I was there. I wish everyone could go and experience a similar feeling. I believe the world would be so much better off if people would get out of their comfort zones and travel more. Even if they don't, I will continue to do it just for myself. Although it seems like it has been aimless, and perhaps it has been without a goal at some points, traveling has always fulfilled my own personal pursuit of purpose.

Life Span of a Travel Blog

2007-04-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Today I went to check up on one of my favorite travel blogs and the final post said that the author had finished up on his traveling and therefore that was the end of the blog. So, then I realized that this actually happens frequently with travel blogs. The personal journeys of the authors only last for a certain amount of time. Some people blog about their year long around-the-world trip and then when it's over the blog is over. Some people blog about being an expatriate in another country, then eventually they return back to their home country. Very few people, I have noticed, have on-going travel blogs, because at some point people just finally settle down. Andy from hobotraveler.com seems to be an exception!

I'm trying to figure out how to have a sustainable blog. I travel pretty frequently, but I am afraid my blog is getting stale. I have not even been out of the country in about a year. How sad is that?

What makes a travel blog interesting? I know I like to read about personal stories from travel blogs. Tell me what type of blog you all are reading out there and why? For travel tips? To learn about new adventures and places? What is the point?

Do It While You're Young

2007-04-21T02:17:00.000-07:00

Kristina and I "published" our e-book three months ago and surprisingly, some of you out there actually bought it! Just in case you're wondering, it's still available and after we have traveled a few more places over the next year we will be making a second edition!

Do It While You're Young: A Travel Guide for Young Women is a how-to guide, with a dash of inspirational stories, targeted toward young women looking to travel internationally for the first time whether on a solo journey, study abroad or with other travel buddies. Travel is a life-changing experience and the book is geared specifically for strong, independent women curious to explore the world but are anxious or unaware of how to get started on a wonderful journey.

Contents

1.Introduction
2.Inspirations for Travel
3.Planning your trip
4.Creative ways to travel
5.Fiscal Planning
6.Booking your flight, hotel, and tours
7.Preparing to depart
8.Packing
9.Once you get there
10.References
11.Index

Excerpt from Chapter 2
Inspirations for Travel
Traveling is liberating. There is a realization when traveling that opportunities are endless, boundaries are breakable, and time is infinite. Why do you want to travel? Do you want to learn new languages, or do you want to meet new people with similar lifestyles and interests or just to prove to yourself that you can? Whatever the reason you must know that traveling, just taking the first step even, will change your life forever. You will leave your comfort zone and venture into an unknown world that will expand your mind, change your perceptions and you will never be the same again. Maybe you will try it, realize it is really not for you, and you will never want to do it again and that’s OK. At least you took the first step. You will never be left with regret or the sense that you didn’t try. Maybe you will fall in love with traveling and never be able to stop. That’s OK, too.

Women around the world leave their comfort zones everyday to explore the world and there is no reason why you shouldn’t, too. We’ve met girls who are biking across the entire continent of Africa to fundraise for cancer organizations, girls who were doing year long round-the-world trips, and girls who were sailing the oceans (solo!) in search for the perfect wave to surf!

What’s stopping you from taking your adventure now? Do you have a boyfriend that you don’t want to leave or who doesn’t want to go with you? Perhaps you don’t feel like you have enough money to travel. That’s no excuse! We’ll show you ways you can finance your trip. Maybe you feel it’s unsafe to travel by yourself. We’ll tell you the best ways to be safe and smart while you’re out there on your own. Kristina and Jerri have both traveled alone before and we’re still here!

My Life in the Books

2007-04-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

Books I am truly reading now that have a very striking resemblance to my own life:

What I've Been Up To

2007-04-20T18:39:00.000-07:00

So a lot of you have asked me what I've been up to and what is this mysterious "Travel Dream Job" that I posted about. I can't go into much detail, but I was hired as a personal assistant to a gentleman who lives in Beverly Hills. He had a private jet and among many of the job responsibilities I accompanied him as he flew to his numerous homes worldwide. The job was just temporary, but I have to say that those six weeks were memories of a lifetime!

That's about all I can say other than now that I've flown private jet and first class I am completely destroyed and spoiled...not to mention looking for a new job once again! I mean, honestly, how can any other job following this experience possibly measure up? I'm ruined.

Earth Day, April 22, for Travelers

2007-04-20T15:50:00.000-07:00

International backpackers are typically a pretty eco-conscious bunch. It's hard to make too much of an impact on the environment when you're living on a budget of $30 or less a day. That's including food, room and board and transportation. You know the saying, "waste not, want not" could be the backpacker's motto.

I'm trying to think of other ways that all travelers can try to be a little more green. Everyone knows to support those hotels that only wash the sheets every few days instead of every day (although I believe that hotels do it to save money, not the environment), take shorter showers, turn off the lights when you leave a room, etc.

What about how much fuel it takes to fly to the places you're going? In the states, why not take Amtrak? It's cheaper, more adventures, nicer than economy seats on a plane although it takes more time, it's the journey that is the most important not the destination, right? Instead of staying at a hotel, stay at a communal site where groceries are shared and you earn your stay by helping work around the area planting trees or maintaining hiking trails.

Check out Sierra Club Vacations for trips designed for travelers looking for unique destinations that also provide a way to improve the quality of life for the people there, the culture and the environment.

Let's try to make Earth Day every day.

If you're ever in LA...

2007-04-19T16:23:00.000-07:00

Check out my new favorite food!

pinkberry

Girlfriend Getaways

2007-04-18T02:38:00.000-07:00

Lots of articles on Budget Travel for Girlfriend Getaways.

Today California, Tomorrow Texas, Then Florida

2007-04-12T16:53:00.000-07:00

I'm in Beverly Hills, California right now. Tomorrow I'm heading for Houston then on to Florida and hopefully I can hop a boat to the Med, hopefully Antibes. I'll update more later with pictures!

Perfect Travel Dream Job

2007-03-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

I've obtained my dream job! So, I can't tell you what it is, but I can tell you it's awesome (I know, I know sounds very Legally Blond!). Anyway, I spent the past few weeks in LA and Las Vegas and Boston as mentioned in my last post. I don't have any pics of LA or Boston, yet, but I do have a few nice pictures of beautiful Las Vegas.

For many people, it's hard to believe that I've been around the world, to six continents, over 40 countries, but have never been to Vegas until I was 25 years old. But like I tell everyone, it just wasn't on the top of my priorities list. My idea of what Vegas would be like-old, whithered, burnt out cocktail waitresses and depressed and obsessed gamblers, hundreds of Elvis impersonators walking around the streets, and tons of "ladies of the night" on street corners or at the craps tables with their clients.

Some of my preconceived notions about Vegas were correct, but mostly I found a very lively, interesting, and exciting town. So much to do and see. As I heard people say many times, Vegas is the Disneyland for grown-ups. I agree. It's definitely a fantasy land. I'm back in Houston now and back to reality. Thank goodness I came home when I did, those penny slots at Ceasars almost convinced me to cash out my 401(k)!

Next post will be about how much I love LA!

Where in the World is Jerri?

2007-03-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

I have a very long and strange story to tell you about my crazy life and why I haven't blogged all month. Right now, I'm recuperating, but tonight I'll post pictures and stories of my adventures. I can tell you that I've been chilling in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Boston and it's been a wild ride. More to come...

Where's Your Happy Place?

2007-02-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

I found this study via Guy Kawasaki's blog article, "The World Map of Happiness".

A psychologist at the University of Leicester, Adrian White, analyzed various published studies related to happiness and satisfaction. White then created a report of "global projection of well being" and the first ever 'world map of happiness.' You can download a PDF of the map here. According to the study the 20 happiest nations in the World are:

1. Denmark
2. Switzerland
3. Austria
4. Iceland
5. The Bahamas
6. Finland
7. Sweden
8. Bhutan
9. Brunei
10. Canada
11. Ireland
12. Luxembourg
13. Costa Rica
14. Malta
15. The Netherlands
16. Antigua and Barbuda
17. Malaysia
18. New Zealand
19. Norway
20. The Seychelles

Other countries of interest:

23. USA
26. Australia
35. Germany
41. UK
62. France
82. China
90. Japan
110. South Africa
125. India
167. Russia

The least happy countries were Democratic Republic of the Congo (176), Zimbabwe (177), and Burundi (178)

I'm thinking the Nordic countries are on to something-all five are in the top 20!

World Map University of Leicester

easyCruise in the Caribbean

2007-02-24T15:46:00.000-08:00

I get e-mails often from people wanting to know how to travel around the Caribbean. In the past, there really hasn't been an easy and economical way to travel from island to island-until now!

I just read a New York Times article that easyCruise now has a cruising itinerary for those looking for an affordable way to travel the Caribbean islands! I thought this was new, but I just called my friend Kristina to tell her about it and she already knew from reading it in Budget Travel. How did I miss this?

Here's what the website has to say

easyCruise returns to the Caribbean with a new itinerary taking in the island paradises of St Maarten, St Barts, Anguilla, St Kitts, Nevis and Antigua. From 8th December, complete with a stylish new look, easyCruiseOne will take to the seas from as little as £98 per person per week.

Arriving at some of the Caribbean’s most exclusive islands, our new itinerary allows you to immerse yourself in a diverse mixture of cultures, stroll along numerous white sandy beaches, dive in and explore the depths of the clear blue coastal waters or simply visit the islands chic boutiques or enjoy an espresso in one of the continental-style cafés.

Unlike any other cruise, on easyCruise you have freedom to explore each destination at your leisure. Sailing early each morning, easyCruise arrives in a new port by late morning so you can enjoy the day and nightlife in some of the Caribbean’s best destinations.
easyCruiseOne has a stylish new look!

To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of traveling as a tourist. You know, where people jump off at port, buy overpriced yet worthless souvenirs, see a "local" on the street and think they're experiencing the culture, eat hamburgers at a restaurant that was designed just for tourists, take a few pictures and then leave again. But, from what I have heard and read, at least easyCruise passengers do seem to have a little bit more freedom and independence to experience the islands. And the best part about it is that it's cheap. I would do it. I am seriously considering it! I think that would be an awesome Spring Break! I'm sure that the cruises are mostly full, but they do have some last cruises in April, I guess before they head to the Med.

I'm sure the people in St. Barts with with their million dollar homes overlooking million dollar views of the ocean love looking down at the easyCruise ships! I wonder what kind of impact this will have on the islands-especially the exclusive ones like St. Barts.

Tourist kills mugger with bare hands

2007-02-23T22:45:00.000-08:00

I'm not posting this to scare you, but it is important to remember that there are dangers to traveling just as there are dangers at home. While stories like this should not keep people from traveling, travelers do need to keep in mind that just because you are on vacation in paradise you you are not in utopia. Crime exists everywhere. Some short reminders and tips for traveling safely:

Never go anywhere alone at night, if you must go out, go out in groups and know where you are at and where you are going.

Don't go on romantic walks along the beach at night in the Caribbean or deserted beaches anywhere.

Don't make it obvious that you are a tourist like flashing around your guidebook, camera, iPod, expensive jewelry and money.

Tell friends and family where you are going and leave names and numbers of where you are.

Don't leave valuables in your rental car-especially not the trunk!

Ask the hotel if you can keep your valuables in their office safe deposit box not your hotel room. Make sure you document all items with management.

If you know you aren't going to need it, don't take your passport with you when you go out. Think ahead as to when you may possibly need it-like going on a day trip to another country.

Anyone else have ideas?

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica - An American tourist who watched as a U.S. military veteran in his 70s used his bare hands to kill an armed assailant in Costa Rica said she thought the attempted robbery was a joke — until the masked attacker held a gun to her head.

"I thought it was a skit. But then he pointed the gun at my head and grabbed me by the throat and I thought I was going to die," Clova Adams, 54, told The Associated Press by telephone Friday from the Carnival Liberty cruise ship.

The assault occurred during a ship stopover Wednesday in Limon, 80 miles east of San Jose, Costa Rica's capital.

Adams was with 12 American tourists who hired a driver to explore Costa Rica for a few hours. They were climbing out of the van to visit a Caribbean beach when three masked men ran toward them, she said. One held a gun to her head, while the other two pulled out knives.

Suddenly, one of the tourists, a U.S. military veteran trained in self defense, jumped out of the van and put the gunman in a headlock, according to Limon police chief Luis Hernandez.

Hernandez said the American, whom he refused to identify, struggled with the robber, breaking his collarbone and eventually killing him. Police identified the dead man as Warner Segura, 20. The other two assailants fled.

Afterward, the tourists drove Segura to a hospital, where he was declared dead. Sergio Lopez, a Red Cross auxiliary, examined Segura's body and said he died from asphyxiation.

Lopez also treated Adams for a panic attack.

"She was very nervous after the assault, but she had not been physically hurt," Lopez said.

The U.S. Embassy confirmed the account, but refused to release the name of the American who defended the group, citing his right to privacy.

Costa Rican officials interviewed the Americans, and said they wouldn't charge the U.S. tourist with any crime because he acted in self defense.

"They were in their right to defend themselves after being held up," Hernandez said. He said Segura had previous charges against him for assaults.

The cruise ship delayed its departure until the group boarded the ship, The Carnival Liberty, which was set to return Sunday to Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Adams spoke freely with the AP until a man who identified himself as her fiancee said they didn't want to talk to the media. He said the group might release a joint statement later and hung up the telephone.

Officials on the ship refused to pass an AP reporter on to other members of the tourist group, and another attempt to reach Adams' room failed.

Costa Rica has struggled with growing violence and crime in recent years. University of Kansas student Shannon Martin, 23, was stabbed to death in 2001 after she left a nightclub in Golfito, 105 miles south of San Jose.

Carnival Cruise Lines confirmed in a statement that one of the ship's guests had killed the Costa Rican assailant, but refused to name those involved.

"All of the guests involved, who had booked the cruise together as a group, have opted to continue with their vacation plans. Carnival is providing full support and assistance to the guests," the statement said.

Online Travel Magazine: Escape Artist

2007-02-23T17:23:00.000-08:00

EscapeArtist is one of my favorite online resources for expats. They now have a new travel magazine that looks to be equally interesting.

Just thought you might want to know.

Moving to a New Country

2007-02-14T19:53:00.000-08:00

I think that most people at some point in their life contemplate moving to a new country. But what are the odds that those who consider moving abroad actually take the plunge? Well, I don't know and right now I'm too lazy to google it.

I wonder how many people actually end up staying for a while in their new country and for how long? It's obviously difficult to adjust to living in a new country, so I consider lasting more than a year a sign that you're adjusting well. When I moved to St. Martin, I experienced considerable culture shock. I lasted a year living there and then moved back to the States, but I still visit every year. The comforts I was used to in the States were just too much to give up, even for year round warm weather and a simpler life. I guess for me, it was just too simple. I missed being able to call home without it costing $100 each time for 30 minutes. I missed Barnes and Noble. And I missed Direct Deposit. I know. Weird. Now that I don't live in St. Martin, I miss Pain Au Chocolat, swimming in the ocean and hanging out at the beach before I go to work, and Lady C and Bliss after work (popular bars to the yachtie/tourist crowd).

Every day I think of a new country I want to move to. I think about Australia about every other day, and then I remember how much a round trip tickets costs. I like being back in the States though and having the option to travel somewhere new-even though I haven't had the chance in 6 months. When I would talk to tourists who came to St. Martin they would usually say something like, "You're so lucky that you get to live here. It seems so laid back and peaceful." To which I would respond, "I am fortunate, but life is life no matter where you are. I just like life better here."

Now that I think about it, that was a pretty cheesy thing to say!! But it was true for a little while.

I'm a travel writer...sort of!

2007-01-18T19:27:00.000-08:00

I submitted an article entitled, So You Want to Work on a Yacht?, to eZine.com and it was accepted. If you are one of the three regular lurkers on my blog then you'll recognize it as basically just an article I've posted on here. I'm just crossing over...to where I'm not sure. I am also listed as an expert author in the cruising and sailing category. Me? I'm just waiting for someone who actually knows what they're talking about to overtake me. Maybe the true experts are actually out doing something productive like cruising or sailing as compared to me just sitting here at my computer. Either way, it's out there for your viewing pleasure or displeasure...

"I Have a Dream"

2007-01-15T15:12:00.001-08:00

I try to post only about travel topics on my blog, but today is Martin Luther King Day and he was one of the greatest men who ever lived so I thought I would put his "I Have a Dream" speech on the blog.

Everyone has a dream. My dream is not nearly as noble as fighting for Civil Rights and Justice and in all reality probably quite selfish. Mine is to travel the world. To see beautiful, awe inspiring places. To meet incredible people. To learn from others. To teach others about the world around them. To inspire others. I do have a special place in my heart for the women and children I have met in some of the poor countries I've been to. Hopefully, in my own small way, I will leave this world better than I found it. I saw this quote on a bumper sticker yesterday, "Those who abandoned their dreams will discourage yours." I believe it's true.

What would this world have been like if Martin Luther King, Jr., and the countless others who fought with him had given up their dreams because of the discouragement of others? Thankfully we'll never know.

Do It While You're Young: A Travel Guide for Young Women

2007-01-14T15:34:00.000-08:00

My friend Kristina and I have finally published our e-book, Do It While You're Young: A Travel Guide for Young Women.

Do It While You’re Young is a how-to guide, with a dash of inspirational stories, targeted toward young women looking to travel internationally for the first time whether on a solo journey, study abroad or with other travel buddies. Travel is a life-changing experience and the book is geared specifically for strong, independent women curious to explore the world but are anxious or unaware of how to get started on a wonderful journey.

Contents

1.Introduction
2.Inspirations for Travel
3.Planning your trip
4.Creative ways to travel
5.Fiscal Planning
6.Booking your flight, hotel, and tours
7.Preparing to depart
8.Packing
9.Once you get there
10.References
11.Index

Excerpt from Chapter 2
Inspirations for Travel
Traveling is liberating. There is a realization when traveling that opportunities are endless, boundaries are breakable, and time is infinite. Why do you want to travel? Do you want to learn new languages, or do you want to meet new people with similar lifestyles and interests or just to prove to yourself that you can? Whatever the reason you must know that traveling, just taking the first step even, will change your life forever. You will leave your comfort zone and venture into an unknown world that will expand your mind, change your perceptions and you will never be the same again. Maybe you will try it, realize it is really not for you, and you will never want to do it again and that’s OK. At least you took the first step. You will never be left with regret or the sense that you didn’t try. Maybe you will fall in love with traveling and never be able to stop. That’s OK, too.

Women around the world leave their comfort zones everyday to explore the world and there is no reason why you shouldn’t, too. We’ve met girls who are biking across the entire continent of Africa to fundraise for cancer organizations, girls who were doing year long round-the-world trips, and girls who were sailing the oceans (solo!) in search for the perfect wave to surf!

What’s stopping you from taking your adventure now? Do you have a boyfriend that you don’t want to leave or who doesn’t want to go with you? Perhaps you don’t feel like you have enough money to travel. That’s no excuse! We’ll show you ways you can finance your trip. Maybe you feel it’s unsafe to travel by yourself. We’ll tell you the best ways to be safe and smart while you’re out there on your own. Kristina and Jerri have both traveled alone before and we’re still here!

It Never Gets Easier Than Now

2007-01-12T22:22:00.000-08:00

I stumbled upon this blog article where the author, Ramit Sethi, listed the reasons why young adults should realize that there is no better time than now do what you want to do. His top 9 examples are:

Saving money is never easier than now.
Working out.
Eating fast food.
Starting your own business.
Just hanging out with friends.
Doing your own side projects.
Taking risks in investing and life.
Meeting interesting people.
Traveling.
Living in situations your parents would abhor.

Check out this article and the blog, I Will Teach Tou to be Rich, for more very interesting topics.

What American Accent Are You?

2007-01-09T22:26:00.001-08:00

What American accent do you have? Your Result: The West Your accent is the lowest common denominator of American speech. Unless you're a SoCal surfer, no one thinks you have an accent. And really, you may not even be from the West at all, you could easily be from Florida or one of those big Southern cities like Dallas or Atlanta.
The Midland
The South
Boston
North Central
The Inland North
Philadelphia
The Northeast
What American accent do you have? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

Frommer's 2007 Top Destination Picks

2006-12-30T22:16:00.001-08:00

Frommer's Top Destinations for 2007 as listed in the full article here

* Krakow, Poland
* Tokyo, Japan
* Minneapolis, Minnesota
* Panama
* Asheville, North Carolina
* Ethiopia
* Portland, Oregon
* Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
* Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
* Glen Canyon, Utah
* Zurich, Switzerland
* Portland, Maine

How Cool Are These Sandals?

2006-12-29T19:35:00.000-08:00

I know I'm throwing you a lot of products lately. But I keep thinking of all the cool travel products there are out there and I want to share. I just found these Reef Sandals called "Stash" in December's issue of Caribbean Travel and Life In the heal of the shoes you can store a key, credit cards, or cash. The Stash sandals are for women, but don't worry, Reef makes storage sandals for men, too.

The "Dram" holds up to three ounces of liquid. Like a shoe flask. Hmm, I bet Homeland Security will love that. Although the shoes aren't available until March 1, 2007 you can pre-order them from KonaSports.

What is your favorite city?

2006-12-28T13:45:00.001-08:00

I was talking to my grandmother the other day about favorites places I've been and she asked me if there was any places I didn't particularly like. I guessed Tokyo because it was so expensive. But what is my favorite city? Very hard to say...it's like trying to pick your favorite child, but I would say Sydney and New York City are my top two choices. Boston, Cape Town, Buenos Aires, and San Diego are probably my third favorites! It's hard to say.

The Backpack I Use

2006-12-28T13:07:00.000-08:00

This backpack has been to almost every continent with me! I love it because it's so incredibly light, roomy but not too big for me. I'm 5'4" and medium size and it does not swallow me like the guys backpacks do. I tried on every pack they had at Bass Pro Shop and REI and this was the winner. Most backpacks I've seen are pretty bulky, but not this one. In fact, I had a lot of the other backpackers in South Africa asking me where I got such a cool bag. Well, I got it from Bass Pro Shop in Ft. Lauderdale but none of them had heard of it before! Anyway, I have had a few people ask me on here what I recommend for traveling, especially when you're working on a yacht. This one! I recommend this one! You can get it from Bass Pro Shops. I think the link below should take you there.

Kelty Illusion 3500 Backpack for Ladies

One Girl Mentioned On Amateur Traveler Podcast/Blog

2006-12-28T12:07:00.000-08:00

I've listened to the Amateur Traveler podcast for awhile. Mostly to get ideas on how to make my podcast better (when I'm actually making it at all!) and just to listen to the travel stories.

At the end of the episode 71, Chris mentions One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel and the short entry I wrote, So You Want to Work on a Yacht?. Be sure to listen to the whole episode about Liverpool!

Thanks Chris!

New Year's Resolution 2007

2006-12-27T18:28:00.000-08:00

Here were my resolutions and accomplishments I wrote last year

2005 accomplishments
• Backpacked alone across South Africa including surfing for the first time!
• Drove from Texas to Miami in 2 days
• Drove from New York through the Appalachians to Atlanta then Ft. Lauderdale
• Went to St. Kitts, Nevis, all the USVI and BVI
• Spent an entire summer in The Hamptons in New York and New York City
• Spent a month in Boston
• Went on a Safari and was chased by elephants
• Started doing yoga classes in NYC

Things I didn’t accomplish
• I didn’t start a new travel business
• I didn’t run a marathon, 10k, or even a 5k
• I didn’t return back to Texas
• I didn’t see anyone in my family for an entire year
• I didn’t go back to school for my MBA
• I didn’t lose (or gain) weight
• I didn’t go to church
• I didn’t go to medical school

Things I want to do in 2006
• Take yoga classes in Thailand, kayak in Antarctica, and hike across New Zealand
• Visit all my friends on the West Coast
• Visit all my friends back in Texas
• My first triathlon
• Ride a bike across Africa
• Sail across the Atlantic

And here's what happened:

2006 accomplishments
•Reached my 6th continent before I turned 25
•Started my travel business
•Returned back to Texas
•Saw my family for the first time in 2 years
•Drove from Boston to Miami to New Orleans to Houston
•Saw Madonna in concert
•Saw Dave Matthews in concert at Fenway
•Went to Cape Cod and Nantucket
•Went to Tokyo and Kyoto
•Got a little better at my Spanish
•Rode the bullet train
•Spent a lot of time in Antigua and St. Thomas (added some new islands to my list)
•Spent 4 months in Boston
•Bought a surfboard
•Moved into an awesome loft in downtown Houston

Things I didn’t accomplish
•I didn’t hike New Zealand, bike across Africa, sail across the Atlantic, or kayak Antarctica
•I didn’t gain or lose weight
•I didn’t visit any friends on the west coast
•I didn’t run any races, in fact, I stopped running altogether

Things I want to do in 2007
•Take flying lessons
•Kayak Antarctica
•Start running again
•Buy a house
•Move back to somewhere with a beach (that’s not the Gulf of Mexico-unless it’s in Mexico)

How Can We Afford To Travel?

2006-12-27T17:18:00.000-08:00

I'm reading a really interesting book right now called Generation Debt: How Our Future Was Sold Out For Student Loans, Credit Cards, Bad Jobs, No Benefits, and Tax Cuts for Rich Geezers-and How to Fight Back, by Anya Kamenetz.

The author is in her mid-twenties, a Yale grad and journalist. She started writing this as an assignment when she was freelancing at Village Voice in NYC. The basic idea of the book is how the generation between the ages of 18-35, the "Boomerang Generation," is in financial trouble. With the average student graduating from college to low-paying jobs with about $20,000 in student loan debt and almost $3,000 in credit card debt it seems like this generation is in for a lot of trouble in the future. It's called the Boomerang Generation because as soon we graduate from college we have to move back home again because our debt is too high to live independently. I can attest to these numbers, but mine were a lot higher.

After I graduated from college I traveled. I lived in Barcelona and the Caribbean. Then managed to work my way around the world. In all that time, I had student loans, a car payment, and credit card debt, but I found a way. I lived very frugally. Rarely in my travels did I meet other Americans my age traveling. But I met tons of Brits, Kiwis, Australians, South Africans, Germans, well, a little bit of lots of nationalities really. They always said to me, "Where are all the Americans?" "Back home paying off student loans," I'd guess. If it had not been for working on yachts, I'd be in the same predicament as my friends. I called my best friend Curtis one day to complain about my job. He had been unemployed for a year, working only temp jobs, with a master's degree in conflict mediation. I'm complaining about the long hours and being far from home on a holiday. He says, "Jerri, what are you looking at right now?" I was on a boat in New York. "The ocean," I replied. He says, "So stop complaining! I'm looking at a parking lot. I can't even afford gas to get to work!" Then I realized how lucky I was.

It hasn't been easy though. In order to avoid paying rent, I've lived in rooms the size of small apartment bathrooms, with other people, and no privacy and essentially very little freedom. I even lived in a hotel room above a septic tank that had to be pumped weekly. And the only way they could pump it was backing the truck up to my front door and attaching a hose to a hole under my bed. I can't even begin to tell you how disgusting that was. But it was free! But extremely gross. Especially when they forgot to put the cover back on the hole in the ground. Anyway, the point of this is, that we have to make sacrifices. If the easy life was handed to us on a silver platter as soon as we graduated from college, we would have nothing to appreciate.

Traveling is expensive, but it can be done. So no more excuses and stop blaming everyone else for the problems our generations faces. Show some initiative, some moxie and just go! Oh, and stop spending all your money trying to keep up with everyone else. You never will catch up! Especially when they're spending all their money competing with you.

Accomodation in the Caribbean

2006-12-16T11:28:00.000-08:00

So I was just reading the New York Times article, "The Caribbean, on the Cheap." It had some pretty good links for cheap(er) hotels, flights and transportation. I've discussed ways to get to the Caribbean in previous posts that are a little more economical for the readers of this blog than for readers of say, The New York Times. I didn't however discuss cheap places to stay in the Caribbean, because frankly, it can be pretty expensive unless you are going with friends or a partner or you know someone there already. Also, the places that are the cheapest to stay either don't publish their rates on the Internet or they don't even have a website. (Remember, you can always at least attempt to negotiate. As a former hotel office manager, I can tell you that rates can go down for the right person.)

The New York Times listed Surfer's Haven Bahamas on Eleuthera Island which has bedrooms at $25 a night in high season! Seriously, you just can hardly beat that anywhere.

After reading this, I remembered that El Momo on the beautiful island of Saba has rooms available at $50 for single occupancy in high season.

Then, if you are a equipped with your own tent you can stay at Cinnamon Bay in gorgeous St. John, USVI. Cottages there start at $110. At Maho Bay Camps in St. John up until December 15 you can stay in a tent for $56 single occupancy or $75 double.

So, there are a few cheap options for staying in the Caribbean. Surfer's Haven sounds like the best deal. You're on the beach, near the surf and it's cheap. What more could you ask for? Well, maybe if it wasn't in the Bahamas... But in my opinion, it sure beats Atlantis.

A new adventure

2006-12-07T22:05:00.000-08:00

My move to St. Martin has been postponed. I have been interviewing with a few yachts. One very cool yacht I have my sight set on has no set itinerary other than worldwide. It's an expedition yacht so it's not actually used with owners on board. It's commercial. Either way, if I get the job I'm leaving, but I don't know where I'm going! It doesn't get better than that!

Is traveling for ourselves or for others?

2006-12-05T16:38:00.000-08:00

I live on my computer. I have a Mac PowerBook G4 and we are inseparable. Just like my trusty black Old Navy Flip Flops, my computer has traveled with me around the world. And then one day, just like my flip flops, she decided to die. One morning, I turned her on, but she just wouldn't wake up. So I took her to my favorite store in the Houston Galleria-no, not Banana Republic, close second though-the Apple store, and they decided something was wrong with her RAM and they sent her off to be fixed. Five days later she comes home looking nice, shiny and new.

While I'm very happy to have her back alive and well, I have a massive problem. All my music, videos, documents and photos are gone. All my pictures from around the world, every place I have ever been, all the videos I've ever taken of my friends acting crazy, all my thoughts I've ever written down while doing boat deliveries or on the train, my favorite songs from my favorite albums are gone. Music is recoverable, but expensive, but my pictures are priceless. Who knows if I'll ever go back to Australia to dive the Great Barrier Reef? Will I ever have the opportunity to see Kyoto again and a real live geisha? And most of all, how can I prove that I ever went to those places in the first place?

This seems like a vain question, but I really worried about this. How can I show people these amazing things I have seen? And why is it so important to me that I have these pictures to share? Is it because I'm egotistical and want to show all the places I've been to that others haven't? I'm worried that part of this may be true. But, deep down, I know it's not. I travel for the love of it. I travel because I meet interesting people, I witness incredibly beautiful places, I see history, and cultures, and life. I travel because it inspires me. It has absolutely nothing to do with anyone else. The reason I want these pictures is to remind me how wonderful life has been and to encourage me to continue to experience more. And I want my photos to share with others my love and passion. Because I want them to feel the excitement and exhilaration that I feel. The feeling is indescribable, but maybe it can be shown through pictures. I suppose that's partly why I need my photos.

I will accumulate more pictures as I travel in the future, but I'll mourn the ones I lost. At least I have the memories, right? But, oh, how I'll miss the picture of that geisha!

So you want to work on a yacht?

2006-11-27T07:31:00.000-08:00

Check out these websites. They have pretty comprehensive information.

Work on a Boat

Extraordinary Jobs

Kim at Extraordinary Jobs even has an ebook about crewing on a yacht.

My Favorite Hotels

2006-11-25T16:26:00.000-08:00

I love going to amazing hotels in beautiful places. Here's a list of my favorite hotels and hostels so far.

The Westin Kyoto, Japan

This is supposed to be the best hotel in Kyoto and I can see why. The room I had was incredible with the biggest bed I've ever seen! It was so comfortable. The hotel had its own little Zen Garden, the room service was expensive (of course), but the most impressive part was how courteous the housekeeping was. I believe that the true measure of a great hotel is the housekeeping. Whenever I saw the housekeepers in the hall they would give me very big smiles and bows. Of course, I know this is a sign of respect all over Asia, but why can't Western hotels be the same?

Hotel Tom Beach, St. Bart, Caribbean

Although I didn't stay at Tom Beach Hotel, I did have lunch there and used their beach, the famous St. Jean which is spotted with celebrities. The airport is so close by that planes fly right over your head when taking off. It's perfect!

I liked that the hotel was decorated in deep, rich and vibrant colors. The pool lounge area was padded with comfy pillows and beds covered in willowy curtains.

Coffee Shack, Coffee Bay, South Africa

The Coffee Shack come close to near perfection. If you enjoy the idea of an earthy, laid back beach bungalow I can't imagine anywhere better. Coffee Shack is a backpacker, which means no creature comforts. But what you give up in room service you make up for in location and culture. I went for one day and stayed for a week.

Library Hotel, Manhatten

The Library Hotel in Midtown Manhatten is located on Madison Avenue and 41st Street, also known as Library Way, just down the street from New York Public Library, Bryant Park, Pierpont Morgan Library, and newly renovated Grand Central Station.

The hotel emulates a library with each floor a new subject and each room a variation of that theme with books in that subject placed on shelves. I stayed on the History/Social Sciences floor in the Psychology room, which is one of the smaller rooms. But the best room I imagine is the Erotic Literature room.

I enjoyed the fact that they offer turndowns every night, an office with internet access, and complimentary wine and cheese every evening.
However, my room was a bit too small for the price (it felt very European).

Claridge Hotel, Buenos Aires, Argentina

I felt first class staying at the Claridge my last few nights in Buenos Aires. My room was absolutely huge, soft and comfortable. I had complimentary treats in my room (I thought) and English and Spanish channels on cable, including MTV International and CNN International. After not speaking English for a week, I enjoyed hearing the news in "American."

Rates for the room, room service and concierge were perfect. The view from my room overlooked the pool and I found the staff to go way beyond their way to make my stay nice. They also spoke perfect English. Housekeeping was friendly and very good. English teas served at 4pm!

Ferntree Rainforest Lodge, Daintree, Australia

The beautiful area of Australia where the Great Barrier Reef meets land. Nice property as long as you don't mind sleeping or showering with lizards.

Travel Channel's 5Takes Tiffany Burnett

2006-11-23T12:09:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but when I can't travel the next best thing is to hear about other people who are. If you've ever watched the Travel Channel you may have seen the show 5Takes where they take 5 ordinary people and send them on a journey to document their adventures as Travel Journalists (TJs they like to call them). It's kind of like MTV's The Real World but with purpose. Last season, the 5 TJs explored the Pacific Rim. The season before that it was Europe. The show is fantastic, the locations interesting, but what really makes the show so enjoyable to watch are the people.

The crew from the Pacific Rim seemed to have a real passion for traveling and exploring different cultures. The show is over and the TJs have returned to their normal lives, but one in particular, Tiffany Burnett is turning Travel Journalism into her career. She has a blog and podcast as well as a few videos on YouTube that are excellently filmed and entertaining. Basically, she's making a career out of my dream job.

How to pass your carry on of toiletries with flying colors!

2006-11-22T12:15:00.000-08:00

Great advice from Spa Diva.

After 3 weeks of brutal illness and work travel, I am back! I am now writing from my parents home in Longview, WA, capital of bad chinese food, meth addicts and paper mill polluted skies. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

If anyone is about to brave travelling during the holidays and stand in those long, noisy security lines, this topic is just for you!

Today, I would like to discuss how to make your life easier when travelling with beauty/toiletries. I wasn't sure how to pack after they banned liquid items and especially after friends were telling me that their expensive makeup, cleansers and moisturizers had been confiscated. Honestly, I think some of the TSA employees used this to their advantage and I wasn't about to let them take my favorite expensive tube of lipstick.

If you are like me and refuse to stand in long lines to check your small bag knowing you'll just have to wait again upon arrival to pick through all the other bags that look just like yours, then these tips will be useful and save you from crying over your favorite moisturizer that was taken away from "Dry skin Deanna," who works for TSA just so she can steal your beauty bag. Not this time!

1. Check TSA's guidelines. Then print them out with the TSA logo showing. That way, if they do question your favorite shampoo under 3 oz., you can remind them of THEIR rules and regulations, that you did follow them and then throw out the word, THIEF!

2. Head to your nearest beauty counter, esthetician and hair stylist for samples of the products that you use. They'll be much easier to fit into that quart sized ziplock bag, than trying to cram all your 1 to 3 oz. sizes of shampoos, moisturizers, cleansers and lipgloss....it's just not going to happen!

3. If you can't get any samples, then I recommend heading to the Container Store. Find small containers, to put your beauty products in, and label them. Not only for the sake of getting it through security, but so you don't end up applying your hair gel to your face, mistaking it for your makeup remover.

4. Don't think that just because the tube or bottle is half empty that it qualifies for sample size. Oh no, it will get thrown away. That expensive tube of whitening toothpaste will end up in the toiletry graveyard for sure!

5. Check your drugstore or places such like Target for travel sizes of toiletries. I was at Sally's Beauty Supply and they had a wonderful display of tiny lipsticks, glosses and nail polish next to the register.

6. Personal creams and lubricants should be 3 oz. or smaller and if they are not, they will get confiscated. A well suited man behind me was quite angry for losing his KY jelly. That's no joke! Again, place it in a smaller container or make sure the tube is travel size.

Make sure you drink up your coffee, juice, water or self medicating shots of liquor before you enter the security line because it will get thrown away. I saw a woman used as an example yesterday for holding up the line because she forgot to remove her juice bottle from her bag. And be prepared to spend no less than $2.00 on a small bottle of water. I spent $3.25 yesterday for my small bottle of Fuji.

Also, wear comfortable clothes, clean socks and stink free shoes! I think the man, who was in front of me, had been wearing his socks for about a week.

My bag passed with no problems and it was loaded with 2 bags of samples. (Yes, I'm gutsy.) Make sure to print out those guidelines and highlight any that apply to your bag.

Happy flying and safe travels!!

Travel Gear - Essentials for Backpackers

2006-11-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

I was thinking about writing about how to find the best backpack for you when traveling, but then I found this blog.

Backpacks - A backpack is your best investment. You'll be essentially living out of it, and therefore if anything happens to your backpack you're in serious trouble. Spend the money and get a strong durable pack and when you hit the road you'll soon realize how important a good pack is.

There are certain things you need to look for when purchasing a backpack, because after all it's a big investment and your most important one. You'll want to make sure it's proportionate to your body and is comfortable enough to carry 30 pounds or so in. Make sure the straps are comfortable as well, otherwise you may have bruised shoulders to contend with. Always make sure there is a waist strap. This strap is very important as it shifts something like 40% of the weight from your shoulders to your hips, and makes the pack much easier to carry.

Chances are you'll be spending at least $150 for a decent backpack. That's about what I spent on mine and it's lasted me five years and 30+ countries so far.
Questions you should ask when buying a backpack:

Is the backpack waterproof? If the backpack isn't water proof, you can always cover it with a garbage bag or poncho when travelling. But if possible, definitely get the waterproof backpack.

Is the backpack comfortable? If it isn't comfortable now, think about when you're carrying it for hours. You don't want to strain your muscles or get some other injury from a backpack that doesn't fit well.

Is there a waist / chest belt? Using a waist belt shifts the weight of the pack off your shoulders and onto your hips. This helps a tonne! Make sure the backpack sits directly on your hips and is comfortable.

Is there a daypack? Many backpacks come with detachable daypacks. This is definitely useful, but you can also just bring your own extra backpack and stuff it inside your big backpack if there's room.

Warranty? What does the warranty cover? For how long? You certainly don't want your new backpack to fall apart on you in the first week. Make sure you get a quality pack from a reputable brand, with a comprehensive warranty.

Holiday Travel: TSA hopes 3-1-1 will keep lines moving

2006-11-21T18:48:00.000-08:00

By John Helton
CNN

(CNN) -- Airline security officials want to get out the 411 about the 3-1-1 to keep airport traffic flowing smoothly over the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Transportation Security Administration banned liquids from carry-on baggage in August after an alleged terror plot using liquid explosives, was exposed. The TSA adjusted restrictions in September with a campaign called "3-1-1 for Carry-onsexternal link."

The "3" stands for the three-ounce limit for containers of liquid or gel; the first "1" stands for the one-quart, clear, zip-lock bags required to hold the containers; and the second "1" indicates one bag per passenger.

Wait times in security lines have increased 10 percent overall since the restrictions were put in place.

Going into the busy holiday season, the TSA said it is working with the entire travel industry to include the 3-1-1 message in communications with their customers.

About 25 million people are expected to fly between November 17 and November 28 -- that's about a 3 percent increase over last year.

Airline and government officials say they have done as much as they can to inform passengers. Now it's up to the passengers to keep the lines moving.

"Amazingly, a lot of people still have not gotten the word," said Chuck Cannon, public affairs director at Denver International Airport.

Cannon said he went through a security checkpoint recently and saw a passenger that he presumed to be a business traveler, "and he had his stick deodorant and shaving cream that he had to throw away and I thought to myself, 'Where have you been?' "

Judy Graham-Weaver, AirTran's public affairs manager, said that her biggest concern was that people who haven't flown since last Thanksgiving haven't paid much attention to the restrictions.

"I still hear people when I fly when I get on the rental car bus calling on their cell phones telling people, 'They took this from me and I didn't know you couldn't have that,' so I know there are a lot of people out there who still don't know what they're allowed to have."

TSA spokesman Christopher White said in an e-mail response that the majority of the agency's 43,000 security officers will be on duty over the weekend. The agency limits vacation during peak travel times and requests that officers work overtime, he wrote.

"What it comes down to is, if they get it right and familiarize themselves with the rules for carrying on liquids, we could have a very uneventful Thanksgiving," said Bob Parker, spokesman for Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. "And if they don't, we could have lines out into the garage. It really comes down to passenger behavior."

Parker said it was easier to deal with the outright ban on liquids put in place immediately following the exposure of the terror plot in August.

"Now there's the opportunity for discussion," he said. "I waited in line about five minutes behind a woman who didn't understand why she couldn't take her half-full 6-ounce tube of shampoo on the plane."

White estimated each physical inspection of a carry-on bag takes three minutes.

"Even if you add 10 seconds to each person, that adds up," Parker said.

About 30 percent more bags were checked in immediately after the ban went into effect in August, most airlines said. The rate fell to 15 to 20 percent after the 3-1-1 rules were put in place.

Parker also said the smaller bags being checked because of the restrictions are causing holdups because they are more likely than bigger bags to cover routing codes and cause bag jams.

Parker said he thinks the increase contributed to the rise in the number of mishandled baggage complaints, which almost doubled between September 2005 and September 2006.

The simple increase in total checked baggage can also slow down the system.

"The size of the door is the same," Parker said. "If it takes 20 to 30 percent longer to get the bags off the plane -- at peak time that could mean people waiting 30 to 45 minutes for their bags."

Airline officials say they have adapted to the security changes and are offering advice to their customers to help them through terminals -- most are distributing 1-quart bags to passengers who need them.

I'm moving back to St. Maarten!

2006-11-19T18:40:00.001-08:00

So, all this talk about the Caribbean on my blog has made me miss the Caribbean. In light of that fact, I have decided to move back to the Caribbean. The Caribbean is home to me, like Texas, and I miss it so much. So starting December 1, this blog, my podcast, One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel, and my Travel Consultant business, Via Via Travel, are all moving back to St. Martin. Yay! I'm looking forward to having a tan again!

Cheap Packing Tips

2006-11-19T18:14:00.000-08:00

· Roll your clothes that you don't mind wrinking-underwear, t-shirts, jeans. It creates more room in your bag. Another alternative is to take a zip lock bag and place your clothes inside. Then you can "vacuum pack" it so it takes up less space.

· Layer your clothes longways instead of folding. Your clothes are less likely to wrinkle and you have more space.

· Place a piece of tissue paper between each layer of clothing will help prevent wrinkling.

· Always carry your travel documents, medication, jewelry, traveler's checks, keys and other valuables in your carryon. These items should NEVER be packed in luggage you plan to check.

· Buy small containers to put your shampoo, conditioner and lotion in. You won't need your entire bottle of Pantene for your one week vacation. And, if you run out, odds are there are stores in the country you are in that sell shampoo. Then put them in a plastic or zip lock bag.

· Layer your "breakables" hairdryer, flatiron in between soft items like clothes so they won't get damged during transport.

· Always carry your travel documents, medication, jewelry, traveler's checks, keys and other valuables in your carry on. These items should NEVER be packed in luggage you plan to check.

One Girl, Her Backpack and a Passion for Travel

Oh what a difference a year makes

Do It While You're Young

Where have I been?

6 random things

If I don't travel, am I not me?

Finally! San Francisco and San Jose

Ft. Lauderdale Pedicab accident on New Year's Eve

I love the Body Deli

Benazir Bhutto

Airline Commercials

So many places, so little money

Houston Has Redeemed Itself-Sort Of

Bombing in the Maldives

WFNX 101.7 Boston

Women Traveling Solo Should Not Be an Issue

Miami to St. Maarten Only $178

Lucy's Here in Houston

Best Radio Station in the World!

Hurricane Warning for Caribbean

Entertainment: Shirley Heights, Antigua

Luxury Travel: Featured St. Barts Hotels

Travel Frequently Asked Questions

Think and Get Paid to Travel

Thinking About Antarctica?

Do You Really Need All Those Bags?

I love Atlanta!

Travel Bags for your carry on!

It Can Happen Anywhere!

Reverse Culture Shock: Coping with the Return Home after Extended Travel

Budget Travel: Featured Caribbean Inn

Working on a Yacht FAQs

Laurel Canyon, LA, CA

My favorite Caribbean bars (I'm a former yachtie. I'm well qualified)

Philanthropic Travel: Why didn't I think of that?

Eco Travel: Featured Caribbean Tree House Accommodation

Best islands to live on

Never Ending Sun

Geotourism is the new travel trend

Budget Travel: Featured Caribbean Inn

7 World Wonders

Problems with blog

One Girl Travel.com

Travel on Blogher.com

Changes at the One Girl Blog

Happy Independence Day

Send a Child to School in South Africa

Where the Hell is Matt?

So You Want to Work as Crew on a Yacht? (Part 2)

Links to favorite blogs and websites

The Wheelers: Role Models for Backpackers!

One Girl Updates

Itching to do Something

Yacht Hits the Rocks at Cannes

My past travel life

What's Up With Cruise Ships These Days?

easyCruise from $6 per night for 3 nights

Working Around the World

Life as a Deckie Aboard a Private Yacht

More Megayacht Links

Life as a Chef Aboard a Private Yacht

Wandering Aimlessly vs. Pursuit of Purpose

Life Span of a Travel Blog

Do It While You're Young

My Life in the Books

What I've Been Up To

Earth Day, April 22, for Travelers

If you're ever in LA...

Girlfriend Getaways

Today California, Tomorrow Texas, Then Florida

Perfect Travel Dream Job

Where in the World is Jerri?

Where's Your Happy Place?

easyCruise in the Caribbean

Tourist kills mugger with bare hands

Online Travel Magazine: Escape Artist

Suggested Reading to Prepare for Travel

Moving to a New Country

I'm a travel writer...sort of!

"I Have a Dream"