Do It While You're Young

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!

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

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

So many places, so little money

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?

Women Traveling Solo Should Not Be an Issue

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.

Lucy's Here in Houston

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.

Thinking About Antarctica?

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?

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!

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!

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

Laurel Canyon, LA, CA

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.

Eco Travel: Featured Caribbean Tree House Accommodation

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

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!

Geotourism is the new travel trend

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!

7 World Wonders

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!

Travel on Blogher.com

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!

Links to favorite blogs and websites

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!

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

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

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?

What's Up With Cruise Ships These Days?

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?