Travel Tips & Tidbits w/ Meagan from the Egg

Have you all read The Egg? I hope so because it is one of my favorite blogs and I am so excited that Meagan agreed to do this little interview! I also love that she lives in idyllic Jackson Hole, WY! 
Read on...

Tell us a little about yourself:

Hey friends!  I'm meagan and I blog over at The Egg. I'm super excited to be here today and talk about my most favorite thing: travel!!  My blog is all about living in a small mountain town called Jackson Hole.  Travel is a huge part of my life and I'd love to share my experiences with all of you. When I was 20 years old I told myself that I'd visit at least one new country every year. So far I've stayed true to my goal!  

{home sweet home}

Why did you start blogging:

I started blogging to share with my family and friends back home (the midwest) my life out West.  I went home for a wedding and someone asked me "What do you do all day in Wyoming?".  Um...pause. Seriously? I live in the mountains, people! I realized then how lucky I am to live in such an amazing place. My life is full of adventures so I decided to document them all and share with the world.  I also like to brag about my little mountain town because it truly is a magical place.  I also wanted to get my creative brain flowing and learn photography.  Having a blog pushes me to capture how I see the world.

{thats me!}

What is your dream trip:

Agh, so many dream trips on my list right now!  I'm heading to Argentina in October to help out on a wine touring company.... that sounds pretty dreamy, right?  Every since I can remember, I've always wanted to go to Africa to be completely immersed in a totally different culture and challenge myself as a person.  I love to volunteer so volunteering in Africa would be my top pick!  

{via my pinterest}

Where is favorite place in the world

Hands down, Leland Michigan. 

But the Pinnawela Elephant Orphange in Sri Lanka would be my happy place.  They take such great care of the phants. We were able to walk with them through the village and watch them bathe in the river.  It was one of the greatest experiences of my life.

{clearly excited to be there!}

{elephants that have been saved from abuse}

Favorite food/ where do you find it:

Mediterranean! When I visited Dubai, the food was absolutely delightful.  Who doesn't love tapas and eating with your hands?  The hummus and olives were to die for and SO. MANY. SPICES! I'm getting hungry just thinking about it...

{the spice souk of dubai. can't you just smell the goodness?}

Any great travel tips/ secrets?

First of all, pack light! I put together a travel checklist: here. Always travel with someone you get along with and who is just as excited as you to see a new place.  You don't want Debbie Downer holding you back from seeing the world.  Be open to trying new things and expect to be uncomfortable sometimes, it all makes you a better person and appreciate where you live.   If you don't like how a culture is, just go with the flow and remember that you are on their turf and you must respect that.  And remember.....SMILE....it's the universal sign for happiness!!!

Someone recently asked me how I'm able to travel so much.  It's easy, I make it a priority.

Thanks for letting me share!  Now go see the world.

{my best friend and I in Nicaragua}

Thanks Meagan!

Travel Tips and Tidbits w/ Tamara

I was extremely happy to find out about the blog, Tamara's Blend, and I was even more delighted when Tamara agreed to take part in my Tuesday travel series. I hope you enjoy her blog as much as I do! (sidenote: she blogs from Slovenia, which sounds absolutely stunning!).

1. Tell us a little about yourself:

Hey! My name is Tamara and I blog over at Tamara's Blend. I'm really enthusiastic about photography so this is the place where I show some bits and pieces of the beautiful things I come across everyday. Otherwise I am a student of International Relations and Journalism and I'm quite in love with my studies! Other things you should know about me: don't invite me for a cup of coffee, but rather for a cup of tea (huuuge tea lover), book worm (at least try to be in these busy days), inspired by nature, in love with sea and autumn (I love all seasons of the year really, but autumn is especially romantic). Crazy about indie rock.

2. When/Why did you start blogging:

I started blogging less than a year ago. As to why... well I became more and more enthusiastic about photography and design and I really wanted to share my work somewhere so I could get some feedback and improve. I like to think I'm a creative person so I need to compensate the creativity in my free time, since my studies are soooo far from it.

3. What is your dream trip:

Around the World in 80 Days! :-) (one of my favourite books!). But seriously, I have so many to-go places on my wishlist, I'd need a lot more than 80 days to see them all. Well for starters I'd really like to do a trip to Tuscany in autumn, taste the exquisite wine, eat delicious food, admire the landscape and discover old towns.

4. Where is favorite place in the world:

Perhaps it will sound cliche, but... home!

5. Favorite food/ where do you find it:

Pizza! I am quite a foodie, but I'll never get enough of pizza. The best one I ever ate (besides my homemade of course) was at Due Forni in Berlin (highly recommend if you're ever in Berlin). I also really like to cook and experiment - my best friends just bought me Jamie's Italy so I can't wait to make a lovely Italian meal in my kitchen.

6. Any great travel tips/ secrets?

I think everyone should once in their life: 1. Visit Berlin, because it's an amazing city with a really special atmosphere that I've never encountered before. 2. Go sailing in the Croatian islands (I have like 1001 tips about that, so contact me if you'd like) 3. Visit Slovenia. Such a splendid blend of nature, cuisine and culture. You can hike in the mountains, swim in the sea, drink coffee in the oldtown of Ljubljana, have a picnic in one of the vineyards and fields... all in one day! Yes, it's a small country, but we have so much to offer! ;-) 4. Buy a Lonely Planet Encounter guide, pack some clothes, and just go with the flow! I always use LP Encounter guides because they include secret places and tips from the locals too. I've discovered a number of brilliant restaurants and other hidden places this way. And I usually mark which places I've visited and write a comment, so I remember the next time I go there (or when I reminisce :-). 5. Not listen to "less is more" when packing! Sounds weird huh? But I always rather pack more than miss that dress that I really wanted to take but didn't. I like to feel "at home" when travelling so I take as much as I need with me. This was a great interview, big thanks to Ashley for inviting me and letting me be a part of it!

Thank you Tamara!

Travel Tips and Tidbits w/ Hannah from HM.

I'm so excited to introduce Hannah Margaret, of the wonderful blog HM.  She has great taste in pastries and has had some fabulous adventures, so I hope you enjoy & thanks HM! 

1. Tell us a little about yourself:

My name is Hannah Margaret, and yes I use both names, it's a Southern thing I suppose. I'm a senior in college, attempting to get a grasp on the world around me. I have a travelers heart, a passion for people, a love for all things flowered and a desire to experience the unknown. I just returned from a six month stint in Canterbury, England, where I fell madly in love with the culture, the Queen, the pints and, remarkably enough, the food (beans on toast anyone?). I have a slew of international friends, went on a sweet backpacking excursion for a month and became fascinated with what it takes to be a proper Brit. I hope to move there in May.

2. When/Why did you start blogging: 

I began blogging in February of 2010 to have a tool to harness my journaling obsession. Ever since I can remember, journaling has been vital to who I am. Naturally, blogging attracted me. I have unpublished a majority of those posts in 2010 and some in 2011 out a desire for a new direction on the blog. I want to emphasize travel, adventure, people and really living life in every possible capacity (the posts prior were too feelings oriented and childish). If you have a story (Quick hint: you do) and a desire to learn other peoples' story--this is the place for you.

3. What is your dream trip: 

Without a doubt, I want to travel anywhere and everywhere. So my dream trip could involve just about anywhere. I am really more interested in living somewhere as opposed to just visiting for a short time, because then you get the full experience of how that world really operates. Right now, my ideal living spots are my beloved England, Southern France and Germany. I'll keep you updated via blogging.

4.. Where is your favorite place in the world: 

My favorite place has to be Southern France. The culture, the fresh bread and cheese, the stunning landscapes, the cheap wine and the language lure me in without a doubt. In my mind, there is no better place.

5. Favorite food/ where do you find it: 

As a self-proclaimed sweet addict, I would have to say the raspberry macaroon that I had in France takes the cake (takes the macaroon?). The cannollis in Florence, the Kinder chocolate all over Europe and sticky toffee pudding from England are all fantastic runner-ups. I also would just flip to have the coffee beer that I had in Prague again, it was insanely great.

6. Any great travel tips/ secrets?

Always learn "Hello, how are you?" in the native language of the place you are traveling. It proves that you are trying, even if it is nearly impossible (Czech Republic) or insanely intimidating (France). I have tried in the past and will continue to break the stereotype of the obnoxious American tourist. This is one of those ways. Also, you would think this is obvious but you'd be surprised, read up on the place before you go. I used my Let's Go Europe book throughout my time backpacking and found some fantastic finds this way. We ate at the restaurant recommended in Prague for every dinner while there.

Travel Tips and Tidbits with Michelle

Hey you all! I'm thrilled to have the wonderful Michelle from On the Adventure featured today! Her blog design is super rad and it only gets better with her entertaining posts, so go check it out!


 
1. Tell us a little about yourself: 

Hello there sweet readers of A and B C the world! First of all I am just over.joy.ed to be here. When Ashley asked me if I was interested in this post I just about danced around in a circle with my dog. 

Or maybe I did.

Needless to say, I am super excited to be here! For those of you that I haven't had the chance to meet yet, I'm Michelle and I blog over at On The Adventure. I am a lover of all things outdoors - bikes, boats, mountains, lakes, canoes, tents you name it, I love it. I am also really partial to spending hours laying a hammock. Let's be real though, who isn't? 

I am a firm believer that each and every day is an adventure. Each day is filled with absolutely beautiful moments sneakily disguised like normal, everyday happenings. We often think that life is a series of huge events accompanied by a full orchestra playing the perfect soundtrack. But friends, oh friends, each day is absolutely wonderful and perfect in itself! We just have to slow down and take a look around every once in a while. We just have to take it all in and enjoy this crazy adventure we're on.

2. When/Why did you start blogging:

Like many of you out there I was an avid blog reader. I just adored hearing about people's lives and seeing their creativity displayed on their blog. I was always so inspired by bloggers and one day about a year ago decided that I needed to get off the sidelines and be a part of this world. Oh, and I am so so glad I did! Blogging has introduced me to some of the most amazing people I have ever had the chance to meet  (you know, via the internet!). I am constantly surprised and overtaken with gratitude for the support and encouragement I find in the blogworld. If you're a reader waiting for the right time to start a blog, every time is the right time. I promise, you will not be disappointed in the lovely ladies out here!

3. Tell us your dream trip:

This may be the hardest question I've ever been asked. Ever. I adore travelling and have a list a mile long of places that I want to visit. Prague, Belgium, Australia, Norway, Peru.... I want to see it all, experience it all, and meet people from all over the world! I  think at this current moment, though, I am dying to visit India during Holi, the celebration of color. Do you even see all of the joy in those people's faces? I cannot imagine how absolutely beautiful and fun this celebration is. Throwing colored powder all around the city. Dancing. Laughing. I need to go one day, I just have to!


I can't even begin to think of all of the smiles. All of those smiling people all in one place.

4. Your favorite place in the world:
Austin, Texas. I only live a couple of hours away and try to head there any chance I get! There is something about the Capital of Texas that I cannot get enough of. The music scene, local restaurants and bars, hiking, swimming.... there is so much to love! Every time I'm in Austin I can just be free.


Wild and free.


There is just something about that city that has a hold on my heart. It is unlike any place I have ever been and it is just easy. Simple and easy.

5. Favorite food/ where do you find it:

Remember when I said number 3 was the hardest question ever? Scratch that. I love food, I just love love love it. All kinds: Indian, Mediterranean, Mexican, good ole' BBQ. Sheesh, I just love something about all types of food. I think that my tried and true go-to has to be a cup of coffee (or soy chai latte) and the perfect scone. There is something so comforting about this for me, I just can't really explain it. I think it is relaxing, I mean how could anything possibly be wrong while drinking the perfect cup of coffee with the most perfect scone?


Exactly.


Of all of the coffee shops I've been to (which is a lot. I can't pass up a good coffee shop) my favorite Chai and scone have to be from J&B Coffee in Lubbock, Texas, where I went to school. Yes, tiny-town in West Texas has my favorite latte and scone, who knew? I remember many a night studying there, laughing there, making new friends there. I love that coffee shop with my whole heart. And the white chocolate cranberry scones, too. 

6. Any great travel tips/ secrets?
Friends, you must check out The Clymb. Imagine Gilt Groupe but for all things outdoors. They offer super deals on everything you would need for the perfect adventure. Be it travel guides, packs, clothing, even Chacos, The Clymb has it! I have found so many great travel necessities here and for the best price, ever. They offer something different everyday so it is definitely worth stopping by when preparing for your next journey.


Thank you, Ashley, for letting me camp out on your sweet blog today! I have had the best time. I hope to meet all of you, so stop on by On The Adventure and say hi!






sources: holi1, holi2, austin, coffee

Travel Tips & Tidbits w/ Fiona

Fiona, from the wonderful blog, "The Corner of the Internet that I Call Home." 

1. Tell us a little about yourself:

I’m Fiona, I’m British, but I’ve recently settled in Western Australia for the coming few years. I’m studying at the moment, but outside of that my life consists of baking, planning my next adventure, and trying to live a sustainable lifestyle. 

2. When/Why did you start blogging:

I started blogging when I was planning my wedding to Liam aka the loveliest man in the world. However, I pretty quickly discovered that I cared much more about the community that comes from blogging than I cared about bridesmaid dresses or flowers. Pretty soon I’d dropped the wedding-blogging and just focused on documenting life and sharing ideas and experiences with others.

3. Tell us your dream trip:

Wow – that’s a tough question! My husband and I have this dream trip we call “The Long Way Home”. One day we might decide to move back to the UK, and “The Long Way Home” would take us from Australia back to our homeland via, well, via everywhere! We debate the specifics over coffee quite regularly, whether we should go by train or motorbike; scheduling so we’d pass through Rio during Mardi Gras and Canada in the winter. Then we turn it all on its head and take the Trans-Siberian instead!

4. Your favorite place in the world:

My favourite place in the world changes perennially. I’m quite homesick for London at the moment; nowhere in the world compares to Tokyo; there’s a French village on the Med, at the foothill of the Pyrenees which I am convinced is heaven on earth; and the sense of isolation you get if you drive inland in Western Australia is breathtaking. I try and get the best out of anywhere I visit, so it’s hard to pick one place as a favourite.

5. Favorite food/ where do you find it:

I love unagi (freshwater eel), lightly grilled on rice or sushi. While you can find it elsewhere in the world, I’ve never had better than in a small sushi bar in Chiba, Japan where the slices of eel were held with tongs and grilled over the open flame of what looked to be a Bunsen burner from a chemistry lab!

6. Any great travel tips/ secrets?

Pick your travel partner carefully. If you’re not travelling alone, then your choice of travel partner(s) will have a major impact on your travel experience. One you’ve spent all that money on a trip, and dedicated time to planning it, you don’t really want to have to compromise (and neither should they) on what gets done each day. I have friends I love wholeheartedly, but would never travel with, as I know that their desire to lounge by a pool or go on group tours doesn’t fit with my own wants. Find someone where you can be honest about what you want to do (and they can do the same with you), and be willing to do your own thing sometimes. Above all else: never travel with someone who won’t eat the local cuisine.

Fiona's  blog is filled with great travels and fabulous writing, and although she has put blogging on hold, I still recommend a scroll through all of her wonderful posts!  

Travel Tips and Tidbits w/ Rachel from Cute Vintage

Hi All, I'm starting a new summer series called Travel Tips & Tidbits, where I email other bloggers about blogging and what they've learned through their travels. If you want to join in, be sure to email me, I would love to hear your stories!
 Hope you enjoy!

To start us off we have Rachel, from the incredibly awesome blog Cute Vintage 

1. Tell us a little about yourself: I'm Rachel, blogger over at Cute Vintage. I like to photograph steet art, thrift and drink copius amounts of chocolate chai tea. During the day I work with suits-and-boots in the city, and when night falls I'm over in East London with my camera trying to find the latest underground hideout.

2. When/Why did you start blogging: November last year. I wanted to start my own online vintage shop and set up the blog in conjunction with it...6 months on, I called the shop a day, but the blog stayed. I feel really lucky to live in East London and want to make sure every inch I see is documented over on CV.

3. Tell us your dream trip: My heart is set on India right now. I've been trying to plan a (pro-longed) trip out there for what seems like forever. I'd like to start in Delhi and then work my way round the west coast to Kerala. In my mind there's me, a yoga mat and a lot of dahl. In reality it'll be more: me, a backpack stuffed full of overly packaged cosmetics and a lot of sunburn. 


4.. Your favorite place in the world: I want to say Cape Town. I went here the summer I turned 18. It was my first ever trip into the world without family or friends. I have a lot of ace memories connected to Cape Town: Long St. in particular. But, I think my favourite place in the world (at least right now) is Berlin. Everytime I'm there it's a different experience - and the grunge scene coupled with the Parisian feel that Berlin has, really appeals to me. It's not all minimal techno and war memorials - but both are worth at least a look. Stay at the Circus, walk everywhere and definately speak to strangers.


5. Favorite food/ where do you find it: Peanut chicken, with rice and plantain. Every Saturday on Broadway Market, East London. Second stall on the left, passed the Cat and Mutton. 

6. Any great travel tips/ secrets? Always have your dad on speed dial.

Thanks Rachel! Be sure to pop on over to her blog