There are few cities in the world that can be diverse both in culture and history while at the same time maintaining a strong individual soul. One of those cities is Buenos Aires. Commonly called the “Paris of South America,” its European roots are evident in the architecture, wide city boulevards, and cuisine. At the same time, the laid back attitude of the city’s residents (porteños) is indicative of Argentina’s rugged outdoor and artistic culture. Buenos Aires is a must see destination in South America — being 2nd largest city on the continent it is an epicenter for art, entertainment, shopping, cuisine, and culture. Like most cities in the world, Buenos Aires offers endless possibilities, so you might want to plan out your visit ahead.

Getting Around

Getting around Buenos Aires is a breeze with the various transportation options (all of which are easy on the wallet). The Subte (the city’s subway system) connects most of main neighborhoods making it a great option for traveling long distances. The bus system is helpful for reaching neighborhoods where the Subte does not go. Unfortunately, buses can be pretty difficult to figure out, so obtaining an up-to-date bus guide is essential. City taxis are pleasingly inexpensive, but try to avoid rush hour as traffic can cause your fares to skyrocket.

Eating and Drinking

Argentinian cuisine is one of the main highlights of visiting Buenos Aires. First and foremost, Argentina is famous for its steak. Local steakhouses (parrilla in Spanish) are everywhere and should be your first culinary stop. In addition to the steak, Argentina is also known for empanadas: little pockets of either fried or baked dough stuffed with savory fillings of meats, vegetables, and cheeses. As many of Argentina’s original European immigrants were Italian, some Italian dishes, such as homemade fresh pasta and thick crust pizza, are staples in Argentina.  For something sweet, make sure to try the Argentinian treat Dulce de Leche or a plate of medialunas, small flaky croissant-like pastries.

And of course, there is the wine. Argentina is a major wine producing country most well-known for Mendoza’s premier grape Malbec.  A great bottle of a Malbec is extremely affordable in most stores and restaurants, so make sure you drink plenty of it along with your steak and empanadas!

Where To Go & What To See

Buenos Aires is a city of diverse neighborhoods. Experiencing the different personalities of each area is just as important as seeing the sights themselves.  The grandness of some and the historic humbleness of others is key to Buenos Aires’ dynamic identity. The neighborhoods listed here have some of the most popular and uniquely Buenos Aires places and are all worth your time.

• Centro

The central part of the city is home to many important icons besides being the main artery for business and government.  All of the Subte lines run through this area making it easy to get around.

Things to See:
Argentina’s presidential building, Casa Rosada (The Pink House), sits at the head of Plaza de Mayo. And while you shouldn’t cry for her, you can see the square and the balcony Eva Peron made famous. Not too far away is the Buenos Aires Obelisk. This 68-meter tall tower is located right in the middle of the city’s biggest boulevard, 9 de Julio. For a night of culture or classical music, there’s no better choice than the Teatro Colon. It was a recently renovated and the interior is elegant and beautiful designed.

Recommended:

Café Tortoni – For an afternoon medialuna and café con leche , the famous Café  Tortoni on Ave de Mayo is a perfect choice in central Buenos Aires.

Palacio de La Papa Frita – This Parrilla is known for its papas soufflé – hot, fluffy fried potatoes that seriously put French fries to shame.

• San Telmo

San Telmo is the most historic neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, and for that reason it is one of the most popular with travelers. Colonial buildings and abundant street art give the neighborhood a welcoming and edgy vibe.  There are plenty of hostels and inexpensive hotels here, so it’s a great budget area to call home base.

Things to See:
Plaza Dorrego is San Telmo’s main square and makes a good spot to grab a drink and check out an outdoor tango performance in the nice weather. On Sundays, San Telmo hosts the antiques fair, which completely takes over the whole neighborhood with artists selling arts, crafts, and antiques. Veggie burritos and homemade jewelry are easily found here.

Recommended:

Todo Mundo Café – Take in a free tango show over dinner right across from Plaza Dorrego.

Mercado de San Telmo – This indoor market is great for local groceries, prepared food, and even more antiques.

• Palermo

Palermo is one of the largest neighborhoods in the city. As such, it is broken up into smaller subdivisions that help define the intricacies of its personality. The mostly residential area Palermo Viejo, once home to Che Guevara and Jorge Luis Borges, is now home to many small restaurants and cafes. Palermo Soho has an edgy and alternative attitude with its many bars and clubs all cent

ered on Plaza Serrano. Palermo Hollywood is home to several TV stations and art studios as well as nightclubs and restaurants.  All three sections are perfect for a traveler seeking the Buenos Aires nightlife. (Porteños are serious about their nightlife so get ready!)

Things to See:
Start in Plaza Serrano, the center of activity in Palermo Soho. All day long its cafes and bars are crowded with locals and tourists alike. Also, do some shopping at the local offbeat shopping collectives that feature independent artisans. For a quiet place to enjoy the South American favorite drink mate, head to the Botanical Gardens. But, you’d better like cats though, since the gardens are home to hundreds of strays. Another worthy landmark is the Floralis Generica. This enormous metal flower sculpture sits in United Nations Park, and depending on the time of day, the massive petals will open and close like a real flower.

Recommended:

Don Julio — This is one of the best parrillas in the neighborhood. Amazingly, a steak dinner for two with dessert and wine (and possibility an aperitif if you are in the mood) can cost as little as US$50. Palermo Viejo.

Niceto – This local staple of a nightclub is ranked as the #1 club in Palermo. Their weekly parties are popular and most DJs play a local flavor of music. Palermo Soho.

Konex /La Bomba del Tiempo – Though on the outskirts of Palermo near the area Abasto, Konex is host to the weekly music event “La Bomba del Tiempo.” A troupe of drummers entertains a crowded warehouse full of young Portenos every Monday night, rain or shine. This party is a unique part to the Buenos Aires nightlife and shouldn’t be missed by those seeking something more than just a club.

 
• Recoleta

This neighborhood is one of the nicest in all of Buenos Aires. Its European architecture and expansive parks give the area an elegant and stately atmosphere. Some restaurants and most hotels here are high-end and are great options if you are looking for a splurge.

Things to See:
The Recoleta Cemetery is worth a visit to see the artistic stone mausoleums of Buenos Aires’ historic high society. Make sure to wander past Evita’s mausoleum, actually labeled Eva Duarte. On Sundays, Plaza Francia transforms into an all-day crafts fair. A maze of stalls winds around the park, food and drink vendors sell snacks, and locals enjoy mate and local music on the lawn.

Recommended:

El Estrebe – This unassuming parrilla is a laid back place to get a quiet and well prepared steak dinner. Try the baked onion side dishes as an alternative to the standard potato options.

El Ateneo Grand Splendid Bookshop – If bookshops can be famous, this one would be the most famous in Buenos Aires. The building is an old theater, which gives the shelves of books and included café a ton more ambiance than a Barnes and Noble.

• Puerto Madero and Boca

Both of these neighborhoods are more difficult to get to as there is no Subte access; however the effort will be well rewarded for those who venture out here.

Things to See:
Boca used to be the main port for the city, but many tourists now head here to see the well-known colorfully painted buildings and to enjoy a tango performance. Also in Boca is La Bombonera, home to the famous Boca Juniors Soccer Club. Attending a game at this stadium is an unforgettable experience as the fans are amongst the most passionate in the world. Be careful not to stray too far from the crowd though, as some areas are still a little rough.

The Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve, a protected marshland on the opposite side of Rio del Plata in Puerto Madero, is home to many species or birds and plenty of walking and biking trails. Though it sits next to the high-rise apartment buildings that characterize Puerto Madero, it still feels like a million miles away from the heart of the city.

Recommended:
Puerto Madero food carts – There’s no better late night snack than Choripan – a grilled chorizo sausage on a freshly baked roll. The riverwalk is lined with many small parrilla carts, selling choripan amongst other meaty options all day long.

Annie Shustrin is a travel addict. When she’s not on the road, she’s either thinking about past trips, planning future ones, or fantasizing about where she’d like to be right now. After years of deliberating and planning, Annie and her husband took a yearlong Round- the-World trip, which was also their honeymoon. She writes about her experiences on her blog, and she’s hoping to help any travel lovers who need advice on planning  both long term and short term trips. Currently, Annie is living in Brooklyn, New York, working in the digital media space.

The post Lost Girls’ Guide to Buenos Aires, Argentina appeared first on The Lost Girls.

Every time I book a trip, my inner traveler kicks in with important questions. What is unique about my destination? What can I learn? How can I push the limits of my comfort zone? If there is some adventure to be had or interesting point of view to learn, I’m there with my camera, front and center, to experience it.

Sometimes though, even the most dedicated of travelers needs a getaway. No more internet, no more exploration. We are so connected these days that it’s easy to forget that yes, we too need a break from it all.

The Virgin Islands, an archipelago of eight islands in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, is a perfect place for a break. Not only are these islands a short flight from the US, but they are easy to travel between and brimming with natural beauty. You’ll find out first hand why so many people come to the Caribbean to sit rather than explore.

Though there are plenty of markets and delicious restaurants to visit, you’ll want to spend most of your time admiring the islands and the sea from the countless beaches. If you are the type who gets a little stir crazy sitting on a beach all day long, there are scenic mountain hikes, off shore snorkels, and deep sea dives to keep you engaged with the environment. And because there are several islands to choose from, a trip here would not be complete without a visit to both the US territories (USVI) and the British territories (BVI).

For a Relaxing Getaway: St John, USVI

If you are looking for some island calm, head over to St John in the USVI. As 63% of the island is protected as a National Park, it is rather undeveloped as far as Caribbean islands go. This means untouched beaches. Protected bays with calm water perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. Donkeys, chickens, and goats sharing the road with passing cars. It is an island that is popular with cruise-goers and Caribbean tourists, but still has local pride and a predominantly wild feel.

Favorites on St John:

Trunk Bay – This the most photographed beach on the island and for good reason. The sand is white, the water is a rainbow of blues, and the offshore reef is a good place to spot rays and turtles.

Maho Bay – Both Little and Big Maho are quiet and don’t get as many beach goers as other popular north shore beaches. The sea here is unbelievably calm and features aqua/green water. It feels more local here as parts of the beach are close to the road.

Miss Lucy’s Restaurant – An open air restaurant right on the water near Salt Pond Bay. Try the Johnny Cakes – this donut like snack is light, but rich and sweet.

Salt Pond Bay – This southern beach is more difficult to get to but highly worth it. Once you park your car, there is a short walk that takes you to out a protected cove with a wide sandy beach and water  teeming with fish and turtles. There is a nature hike here as well that leads to a salt pond as well as another rocky beach.

Concordia Eco Resort – Sitting above Salt Pond Bay in the hills, is this Eco resort is made of mostly tents. The ocean breeze keeps the tents cool and the relative isolation keeps the resort quiet at night.

For a Party: Jost Van Dyke – BVI

If you are looking for a fun-filled vacation, there’s no better place than Jost Van Dyke of the British Virgin Islands. Even though this island is rather undeveloped, White Bay is host to one of the biggest beach parties in the archipelago. Yachts come from all over to moor at one of two main bays. Great Harbor Bay, the more quiet and local of the two, and is a good place for a quiet lunch or dinner overlooking Tortola and St John. This is the island’s main harbor, so it’s not the best choice for swimming. Over in White Bay, the crowd is much larger as the beach is near perfection. The palm-tree lined white sand overlooks shallow turquoise water specked with white yachts and catamarans. Beach bars run up and down the shoreline offering ice cold beer, lunchtime island snacks, and the Virgin Islands favorite mixed drink the Painkiller.

Favorites on Jost Van Dyke:

Soggy Dollar Bar – This is, by far, the most famous of all the bars on Jost. It was here that the “national drink” was created. The Painkiller is a mix of cream of coconut, pineapple and orange juice, with Cruzan rum and a shaving of nutmeg. Duck into the Soggy Dollar to try one. Or seven.

One Love Bar – On the far end of White Bay, this beach bar serves up all day reggae and drinks with a low key vibe. Not too far from the bar is a quiet corner for off-beach snorkeling.

Foxys – This bar is lively and boisterous even though it’s in Great Harbour Bay. It’s on the far end of the beach, but the walk from White Bay to Foxy’s is gorgeous and worth the trip.

For an Something Easy: St Thomas, USVI

If you are looking for something easy, it doesn’t get easier than staying on St Thomas. Most flights land on this island in the main port town of Charlotte-Amelie, which eliminates the need for ferry travel. There are tons of resorts, guesthouses, and apartments, depending on what you are looking for. Beware of the cruise ships, however, as the island turns into much more crowded place once a ship has docked.

Favorites on St Thomas:

Lindquist Beach: This wide open beach near Red Hook is famous for its pinkish sand and extremely shallow shelf. As the water is so shallow, its vividly blue. There is little shade, though the right side of the beach has a small coconut grove.

Magen’s Bay: This has constantly been named by many travel outfitters as one of the nicest beach in the Caribbean as it’s protected water is calm and clear and the beach is wide. Make sure to come here in the morning or on a day without cruisers as it gets extremely crowded. Royal Caribbean towels abound!

Ritz-Carlton St Thomas: If you want really really easy (though I’m not saying budget friendly!), don’t forget about the excellent selection of resorts and beach hotels. The Ritz Carlton, located near Red Hook, is a beach front property where you can enjoy beach-sitting in style without even leaving your hotel.

Annie Shustrin is a travel addict. When she’s not on the road, she’s either thinking about past trips, planning future ones, or fantasizing about where she’d like to be right now. After years of deliberating and planning, Annie and her husband took a yearlong Round- the-World trip, which was also their honeymoon. She writes about her experiences on her blog, and she’s hoping to help any travel lovers who need advice on planning  both long term and short term trips. Currently, Annie is living in Brooklyn, New York, working in the digital media space.

Originally published July 2012

The post A Perfect Traveler’s Getaway: The Virgin Islands appeared first on The Lost Girls.

By Kirsten Hubbard

I backpacked for the first time at age 20—six weeks through Central America, with not nearly enough Spanish under my belt. Now, as a young adult author, that first trip was where I drew my inspiration when writing my novel, “Wanderlove.” But unlike Bria, my book’s 18-year-old protagonist, I didn’t have a pair of experienced backpackers showing me the ropes.

While most of my travel wisdom has been gleaned from travelers before me through internet research, guidebooks, and the like, a substantial portion was learned on the road—and occasionally that meant the hard way. I’ve gotten into plenty of sketchy situations, though I’m fortunate to have avoided anything major. But I’ve been swindled, pickpocketed, and lost in unpleasant places. A number of those incidents could have been avoided had I known then what I know now. So, to my 20-year-old self, here’s the advice I’d give her if I could.

Trust your instincts

This is number one. If something about a situation or person (fellow traveler or local) feels unsettling, shady, or just not-quite-right—even in a way you can’t explain—trust yourself. Don’t rationalize. Don’t just go with it, because it’s travel and travel is serendipity, right? Not if your Spidey sense is pushing you in the opposite direction. Often, we’re subconsciously picking up signals that don’t register as danger until later, when looking back. So trust your gut. And pick up a copy of Gavin de Becker’s “The Gift of Fear,” a book every woman should read.

Don’t be afraid to be rude

This goes for everybody but particularly young women. For much of our lives, we’re taught to be nice and polite and avoid confrontation—even when confrontation is needed. When you’re traveling, sometimes you’re faced with aggressive salesmen, tour operators, or cab drivers. They descend upon you when you’ve just arrived in a new destination and not yet oriented to your new surroundings. Many receive kickbacks for your business, which is why they’re so in-your-face. Worse, they often lie: I’ve been told that hotels are no good, or in unsafe areas of town, when neither is true.

Here’s the thing: You don’t have to engage them. You can ignore them. Just walk away. I hereby give you permission. If you’ve done your research—and I hope you have!—you can trust it more than some fast-talking guy off the street.

Keep an eye on your stuff

Obvious, right? But when you’re traveling, so often you’re exhausted or distracted, especially in crowded places—which happen to be hotbeds for pickpockets. Wear your daypack in front or your bag with the strap across your chest instead of over your shoulder. If it’s not deathly hot, wear the strap under your sweater or jacket. If you keep a wallet in your pocket, never store anything valuable in it, and keep on you no more cash than you can afford to lose. In shared dorms, use your locker, and check if you can store valuables like laptops at the front desk.

Make the first move

Backpacker culture is celebrated for its camaraderie. But backpackers can also be kind of standoffish, at least at first. It’s kind of a defense mechanism that goes with the lifestyle: meeting new people daily and staying safe. When you’re the new kid at the hostel, and everyone else seems to know each other, don’t hang back. Make the first move! It’s like starting college—the getting-to-know-you questions are easy. “Where you from?’ is always a good start. Ask how long they’ve been traveling, where they’ve been, where they’re heading next. On the travel circuit, everyone has great stories—including you.

Write stuff down

I don’t mean lengthy, lyrical descriptions of the scenery, although those are nice too. I mean all that fleeting information you pick up along the way. For example, sometimes I’ll choose my next accommodations at an internet café, and feel totally certain I’ll remember the details. Well, following a couple bus rides, I almost always forget. Write it down. Not just business or place names, but all the information you find—name, address, directions, phone number. Showing that info to a cab driver has gotten me out of a couple sticky situations.

Take food risks!

…Within reason. Some of my best meals have been from street vendors. Like those tiny Thai pancakes made with coconut cream…yum. Or quesillos in Granada, Nicaragua, (easy on the onions). Street food is simply the best way to experience local cuisine—at local prices. But as always, use your best judgment. Is it a popular food cart? Does the food look fresh? Great. Has the meat been sitting out? Are those…flies? Definitely not so great!

Be extra careful when you go out

I’m fortunate that I didn’t learn this one the hard way, but I know people who have. Watch your drink—that means never set it down—and don’t accept drinks from strangers. Also, don’t drink too much. I know it’s easier said than done when you’re at that epic full moon party, but you need to be able to maintain good judgment, and get out of a bad situation in a pinch. Also, hangovers in tropical climates are the worst.

*     *     *

A travel writer and young adult author, Kirsten Hubbard has danced in a Serbian nightclub (self-consciously), been slapped in the face by a Thai monkey, discovered all manner of alarming insects in hostel beds (including tarantulas), and greeted the sunrise from atop the highest temple at Guatemala’s Tikal ruins. She prefers backpacks over suitcases, takes sketchbooks on every trip, and has served as the Guide to Central America Travel for About.com since 2006. She is also the author of LIKE MANDARIN and WANDERLOVE, both available from Delacorte Press. When she’s not off wandering, she lives in San Diego. 

The post Looking Back: Travel Tips for My 20-Year-Old Self appeared first on The Lost Girls.

When you move to a foreign country, adjusting to a new language, culture and area is overwhelming. Some days, you want to just escape to the comfort of your home and relax. But when your apartment is a pre-arranged place that you had no role in choosing or furnishing, it can turn into just another source of stress. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Here are some tips I’ve learned this last year to make anywhere you live feel like home.

Add some photos 

Seeing some familiar faces, even just in a photo, can do wonders on a tough day. Stick a few on the fridge or frame one in your living room.

Bring something special

Take something personal from home that’s important to you. For me, it was throwing a few medals I’ve earned running races and a stuffed animal (or three) into my suitcase. It’ll give your place some personality and it’s comforting to remember you’re still the same person.

Give it a personal touch

It’s challenging to decorate when you’re somewhere temporary. It’s a waste to make any major changes because you’ll be leaving it all behind anyway. But adding a few personal touches will make your place feel like it’s really yours and not just a place to sleep at. Buy some throw pillows, switch that desk lamp or add a plant.  It doesn’t need to be anything major — you’re not trying to get featured on HGTV— but it will make your place feel homier.

Throw some friends into the mix

While I love alone time, there’s something about playing host that gives me fuzzy feelings about wherever I am living. Throw a girls’ brunch, have a movie night or invite some friends over for some wining and dining. Soon you’ll have lots of great memories of times in your new home.

Become friendly with neighbors

You don’t need to become best friends — and if you don’t speak the same language, chances are you might never even have a conversation. But exchanging smiles and pleasantries with those who live around you will help you feel like the real deal and not just someone passing through.

Photo credit:  Bitman, maureen lunn/flickr

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When I announced my intentions to attend a 10 day silent meditation retreat, some friends said it sounded interesting but most said I was crazy and that it sounded either miserable or pointless. Ultimately, it is difficult to provide a meaningful summary as it is a personal, self-reflective experience. But I attempted anyway. Here is my story:

I showed up at my retreat on a hot Thai November day with just one hesitation…spiders. I tend to have a rather illogical and desperate response to these creatures and I knew that, following Buddhist principles, I would be unable to kill them. I checked out my room/cell, set up my mosquito net, and tried out my wooden pillow. The pillow actually wasn’t as bad as I expected. It was carved and smooth and held my head at a comfortable level. The concrete slab, however, was painfully hard and immediately created sore spots where my bony parts made contact. I unpacked my few belongings and checked once again for any human-eating spiders.

A young Thai woman who appeared to be a nun-in-training led the women on a grounds tour. She was pretty and smiled very big but unfortunately in Thailand it is impossible to tell if smiles are to express awkwardness or happiness. She covered the rules and explained how to wash clothes and bodies with the open water wells within the dorms. Buddhism is not all that different from other organized religions. It too is oppressive and fearful of sexuality and the human body; we were to wash and visit the hot spring wearing a sarong. Our guide explained that seeing a bare shoulder could make the men have sexual thoughts. She specified that the young, attractive women must be especially careful. Not great for the ego of those excluded!

There was a short orientation provided by an unsmiling German man who spoke in very stilted English. He asked for questions in conclusion but then answered by saying, “Good question but I don’t know the answer. Best to ask a monk.” A little odd since in just a few moments, no one would be speaking for 10 days. Once the orientation was completed, the silence began. It was 9pm and we all headed back to our rooms to get some sleep before the 4am wake up bell. I opened my room/cell door, turned on the light, and immediately realized I had a little friend there to greet me. Not the spider I had feared but a scorpion! Not only was it the first one I had seen in Thailand but I had taken a vow of silence only three minutes prior and there he sat, teasing me. I trapped him and slid him outside the cell, and left him outside the door. If he managed to escape during the night, he would surely reenter my room which was only sufficient at keeping out creatures larger than a grapefruit; ie men.

Four am came and I was relieved not to have been stung by any creatures. I stumbled out of my room and to the first meditation. Remarkably, I was able to stay awake at four am and focus on my breathing. That first day I felt starved. Starved for good food, for music, for comfort, for companionship, for running water with which to rinse my toothbrush. I was relieved that I had turned in my phones (yes, both of them), because I would have contacted people those first days. I bargained with myself and did not think I would stay the entire time. Just till day ____ (fill in number depending on current state of “starvation”).

Meals were particularly disappointing. Breakfast was a rice soup with perhaps three or four little pieces of frozen veg floating around per bowl. There were also uncooked kidney beans which I crunched down on as it was the only protein. There was some sort of green tea provided that tasted exactly like the aluminum container that kept it warm and small bananas that came from the grounds. By day three I was eating only the bananas after my stomach swelled to an uncomfortable size from the rice.

We sat around long tables and it was unusual to sit facing someone and not speak to them. Women and men were again separated as the act of chewing food must have been dangerous to our unchecked sexual urges. After days of spending all of our time together, we never learned each others names and could only guess the nationality of those few that volunteered for a reading or to say grace before meal time. While awkward at times, it also meant that I did not have the opportunity to develop negative feelings towards others. In silence everyone remained great companions.

Hot chocolate was usually offered at tea time. Now, this is not French hot chocolate but Thai hot chocolate. The first night I thought it tasted like weak Ovaltine and the aluminum pot it was served in…the remaining nights, I thought it was delicious! On night five there was some bitter, salty red tea instead of hot chocolate. I almost quit. Anger flooded over me. I just wanted one simple pleasure… It was remarkable how this one beverage option could make or break an entire day but, for me, it was true. In the heat of anger I knew I was ridiculous but I just wanted the damn chocolate! The anger was so palatable I was flooded with the desire to hit something, a foreign desire, and in that moment it dawned on me that anger is my default emotion. Fear, disappointment, frustration…all manifests as anger for me. It was a major self-discovery of the retreat.

The monks insisted that we should not think and when thoughts popped into our heads, we should acknowledge them and let them go, returning our focus to the breath. There were moments those first few days I could clear my head and feel the pleasure well up from my throat and over my face and I saw a flood of brightness. But when those moments happened, I immediately thought I was succeeding and then, of course, I would loose the moment. Truthfully, this did not upset me. I didn’t come seeking enlightenment or to test myself for the ascetic life. I came because I wanted the freedom of silence… to shut my mouth for the first time in my life. I did focus on my breathing and my surroundings and found it far easier to have congruent thoughts unaffected by others or the outside world. There was a sense of purity as they flooded my mind and I welcomed them. I hope to impart some of what I learned in my life and to extract what is innately good from the practice from the oppressive nature of organized religion that hinders its beauty and purity.

I did not arrive at the retreat a Buddhist nor did I depart a Buddhist despite the fine monks’ attempts. One of the messages the monks kept emphasizing was the idea of an impermanent world and I agree that change is constant. One of the other concepts discussed constantly was “dukkha” which is their word for all negative feelings: worry, sorrow, pain, want, etc. They believe that dukkha is in every moment as even moments of happiness will inevitably end in sorrow and the solution is to give up the secular world and seek enlightenment through meditation. Give up relationships, comforts, good foods, and all other pleasant things because then you will never be sad if the pleasures are missing and you can live a life free of dukkha.  What I heard was “give up” and I saw this life as a blatant cop-out. I found myself feeling that all my struggles had been easy and worth the journey that is my life. Every disappointment linked to a moment of hope. Every loss linked to fulfillment. Every pain linked to joy. Every unbearable sadness linked to uninhibited bliss. And I was proud of myself for not settling, for taking risks, for seeking beautiful sunsets, calm seas, a man’s gentle smile, and no part of me wanted to “give up” and hide from life’s sadness anymore than I wanted to hide from life’s love, bliss, or beauty.

Perhaps the monks would say I am too simple for feeling this way but the Buddha says people should experience these things for themselves and not trust others. The retreat was not fun but I am thankful for my time there. I survived the ten days despite my bargaining in the beginning and I left happier than I had been in years. I departed with a renewed sense of direction, a renewed faith in my journey, and a appreciation for my struggles as well as my successes. I am tremendously grateful for the silence and will find a way to create days of silence in my future. I am thankful for what I found there… within myself. I am thankful for the lack of traumatic spider incidents. I am thankful to know… that I would not do it again.

Nadia Pidgeon is a designer and owner of Denver Architecture Tours. She writes, sharing her experiences and passions influenced by her travels around the world.

First three photos courtesy of Suan Mokkh International.
Final photo courtesy of the author.

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Startup culture. Harvey Milk. These are just a few things that come to mind when you talk about iconic things from San Francisco. San Francisco is a bustling city that has much to offer visitors. Check out a few of the fun, free things that are available.

Cross the Golden Gate Bridge on foot

Rain or shine, the Golden Gate Bridge is one of the must see sights of San Francisco. The bridge is 1.7 miles long, giving you a view of the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Make sure to wear layered clothing and comfortable shoes.

Walk through Castro Street

The country’s first and largest gay neighborhood, Castro Street has a number of events and activities that celebrate the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) community. It has a fun and lively atmosphere that is emboldened by the history of the LGBT movement. Notable attractions in Castro include the Castro Theatre, a movie palace built in the 1920.

Amble by Fisherman’s Wharf

With an eclectic mix of shops and sights, Fisherman’s Wharf is the epitome of San Francisco life. Sample a cup of clam chowder, visit the penny arcade, or watch the seals sunbathe on the docks. On a side note, watch out for the “bushman,” a mainstay at the wharf who dresses in a green costume, resembles

a shrub, and likes to scare people as they walk past.

Go window shopping in Union Square

For those who love window shopping, there’s a dozen of places to visit in San Francisco’s Union Square. Things to check out include the Macy’s flagship store and a heart-shaped sculpture. Also, a few movies have been filmed at this location, including Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo and the opening scene of The Birds.

Find architectural gems in Haight Ashbury

Haight Ashbury will have you buzzing with peace and love. The borough is the heart of bohemian culture with local shops as well as independent bars and restaurants. Be sure to visit the Red Victorian Hotel, a living peace museum and bed-n-breakfast, as well as a slew of restored Victorian houses.

Visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)

If you find yourself in San Francisco on the first Tuesday of the month, make your way to the Museum of Modern Art. The museum has a wide range of art from respected as well as up and coming artists. The 27,000 pieces of artwork, photographs, and design projects will open your eyes to new styles and ideas.

Stop by the Oakland Museum of California

Like SFMOMA, the Oakland Museum of California has its share of free visit days. Check out the archives for free the first Sunday of every month. The collection of art, history, and natural science work to tell the stories of California and you’re guaranteed to leave the place learning something new.

Check out Lombard Street

San Francisco is known for its windy streets and Lombard Street is no exception. Sitting atop a hill, Lombard Street is a crooked street that snakes between two rows of homes. Feel free to take a walk down the street to see it for yourself.

Sate your sweet tooth at Ghirardelli Square

Located close to Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square is the center of the famous Ghirardelli Chocolate. A whiff of chocolate will pique your interest. It is also listed on the national register of historic place.

Take a hike to Telegraph Hill

Save the best for last with a trek up the steep stairs adjacent to Telegraph Hill. The walk gives you a picturesque view of the San Francisco Bay and waterfront. Prepare for a workout; the stairs reportedly have 385 to 392 steps each.

The post Top 10 Free Things to do in San Francisco appeared first on The Lost Girls.

LG Air Travel Editor

When in Key West one must head to the water. As the island is surrounded by the stuff, some of the most fun activities are to be had there. I’ve been keen to try the celebrity sport of choice, Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), for a while now. The chance to check it out in a spot not requiring me to wrestle myself into a wetsuit was too good to pass up.

SUP looks like it should be impossible, but it’s truly not. It’s suitable for all sizes, ages and athletic ability. Our group of women had a first-rate experience with Megan and her staff from SUP Key West.  Megan offers full day as well as half-day and sunset tours so you can just test the waters if you don’t want to commit an entire day. Pricing is very reasonable: $45 for the half-day and sunset tours and $60 for a full day; prices include equipment, lesson and guided tour. She’ll also pick you up at your hotel or pier if necessary.

None of us had ever tried the sport before, but no worries, the learning curve isn’t very steep. The pre-briefing was short and sweet and within about 10 minutes we were up and moving about, if a bit gingerly at first. SUP feels like a combination of yoga, pilates and kayaking. You get a great core workout just trying to stay balanced on the wobble-board. The vibe at SUP Key West is low-key and forgiving. There is no pressure to perform – if you’re not very confident you’re good to just kneel or even sit on the board. You’ll still have a pleasurable experience and the paddling works just fine from either of those positions.

We were visiting Key West from our cruise ship so opted for the morning half-day option. (Megan is quite accommodating about working with the constraints of the cruise schedules.) The day we were in town was a windy, unsettled one and the water current was fairly strong. Megan took care of us though, and  we had a 1-way paddle so as not to fight the current on the way back to the marina. Our 2 hour paddle, guided by the friendly and knowledgable Rachel, took us through salt ponds and mangrove forests. The latter required a seated position to fit through the shallow tunnels formed from the trees.

As we glided along the water we got an education about the flora and fauna we were passing. We learned about the sea creatures present around and beneath us and when Rachel spotted a school of jellyfish she drew our attention to them. The tiny anemones also would have gone unnoticed if not for her eagle eye.

We were picked up at our finish point and transported back to the marina where we rewarded our efforts with a Key West specialty – a slice of frozen key lime pie on a stick dipped in chocolate.

Next time you find yourself in the Conch Republic, take a detour from Duval St. and try walking on water instead.

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By Gina Douglas

“I’ll also take an order of the nachos, please,” I said and handed my menu to the server, avoiding my amused fiancé Tom’s eyes.

I reached for my Singha beer and took a sip of it. In doing so, I made the mistake of looking at Tom. He was smirking back at me.

“You couldn’t go three weeks,” he said and shook his head in mock disapproval.

“I couldn’t help it!” I protested. “They were on the menu, begging me to order them.”

“Uh-huh,” he said, unconvinced.

“And…I really just can’t eat another bite of Asian food today,” I muttered, half expecting the travel police to show up and arrest me for uttering such a sentence.

Tom and I were in Ko Phi Phi, Thailand. We had been traveling for two weeks and my resolve to eat like the locals was starting to crumble. However, as I was about to remind Tom, I’d come a long way.

As a southern California girl, I’d become accustomed to avocados, tortillas, black beans, and grilled cheeseburgers as my daily meals. I ate Asian food very rarely – I never got cravings for it – and actively disliked Thai food. I didn’t like the spices in Pad Thai, glass noodles weirded me out, and curry was too spicy. Friends always tried to drag me to Thai restaurants claiming I just hadn’t tried the right thing yet. When I announced my trip, their first question was “what are you going to eat?”

I pointed out to them that I am a brave, well-rounded traveler and…well…there’s always McDonald’s (shhh, don’t tell anyone I said that). Typically, I am against any type of American fast food establishment while traveling, but I was actually a bit concerned this time.

Turned out, Thai food is much better in Thailand. Imagine that. As a co-worker asked when I was getting ready to leave for the trip, “Uh, what do they call Thai food in Thailand? Just food?”

By keeping an open mind – and having a fiancé willing to trade dishes with me if mine was too spicy – I found Thai food I loved.

The first Thai food I had in Thailand was Tom Yum, a broth based soup with vegetables, shrimp, and lots of floating red peppers. I was able to take three sips of it. Afterward, my mouth was on fire for thirty minutes. After that, I ordered the dishes that the locals told me weren’t spicy at all (i.e. still spicy).

My love affair with Thai food officially started during a trek through the mountains of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. After battling my way up a mountain and thanking God I had decided to exercise for the first time in my life and do Pilates for the past year, I made it to the mountaintop bamboo hut that would be my home that night. The trek’s guide, Ti, disappeared into one room of the two room hut and before long, smoke started curling out. I poked my head in and saw Ti and a local village woman leaning over a huge wok stirring a concoction of chicken and vegetables. Thirty minutes later I was sitting at a long table in front of a bonfire, the darkened outline of the mountains etched in the distance behind me, and dished up one of the best dishes I’ve ever had, which Ti said was chicken curry. The flavor was slightly sweet with just the right amount of spice and cream flavor undertones. I poured the curry over white rice and dug in, eagerly going back for seconds. If this was what homemade Thai food is like, I could definitely be converted into a Thai food lover.

With that meal in my mind, I was ready to let loose my taste buds on more Thailand dishes. The next day in the city center of Chiang Mai, Tom and I passed a small Thai restaurant with trees lining the perimeter of the patio and a soothing dining room indoors. My muscles were in agony from the trek and it looked like the perfect place to relax in the busy city and have a cup of tea and bite to eat. The black pepper and garlic chicken immediately stuck out at me, since it’s not what I think of when I picture Thai food. It arrived and I ate every last bite, enjoying the different spice taste of this entrée – tangy from the black pepper instead of hot from red pepper – infused with roasted garlic chunks; realizing that Thai food is so much more than Pad Thai and curry and becoming happier I kept an open mind on this trip.

It was in Ko Phi Phi that I ran into a problem. The island is exotic, relaxing…and extremely touristy – which resulted in Western food tempting me from every corner. Despite my new-found love for Thai food, my body still craved a cheeseburger or steak taco – anything possibly artery-clogging. And that resulted in not just the nachos breakdown in Ko Phi Phi, but also a hamburger relapse on the island. I’ll blame that one of Tom’s influence.

After Ko Phi Phi, we were onto Bangkok and I resolved to get back to only eating Asian food – and to try Bangkok’s famous street food. I started with pork on a stick. It was the most succulent, tender pork I have ever had – not the tough kind I made at home. Next, I came upon a lady at a food both standing next to a huge pile of…well, it looked like canned cat food. She was spooning big dollops of the concoction into hot oil and frying it. I couldn’t resist trying some. It tasted like deep friend bologna and hot dogs. Next please. That ended up being some perfectly roasted chicken; its marinade a flawless balance of BBQ and red pepper flavor cooked in a huge wine barrel-looking thing that served as a grill; the meat hung from the inside of it. The chicken came with a spicy dipping sauce in which Tom was soaking his chicken with glee. He saw me looking and pushed the sauce toward me.

“Try it,” he said. “You’ve been eating spicier things on this trip.”

That’s true. I could tell my spice tolerance had gone up, but I didn’t know if it had gone up enough to handle this sauce, whose heavy spice level was permeating my nostrils.

I placed the tip of a piece of chicken in it.

“Wimp,” Tom admonished. “Put the whole thing in.”

“The chicken itself is already spicy! I’ll do half,” I compromised and dipped.

I stuck it in my mouth. It tingled my nose and made my eyes start to water, but I kept chewing and found that if I suffered through the pain, I actually liked the taste and sensation I got from eating it.

I swallowed, elated. “I did it! I ate a super spicy bite of Thai food!”

“Or that’s their version of no spice,” Tom said with a wink.

I ignored him and took another bite of chicken dipped in the sauce, my love for Thai food complete, though the jury is still out on Pad Thai.

New to Thai Food? 3 Dishes to Start With

Cashew Chicken

The cashews add earthy flavor to pineapple, vegetables and chicken. Add soy sauce to make the flavors come alive.

Panang Curry

A milder curry dish that has a hint of coconut flavor to it.

Pad Thai

A rice-noodle based dish that gets its taste from a combination of fish sauce, tamarind, and other spices

Sticky Rice w/ Mango

An unlikely combination that is delectable goodness.

***

Gina Douglas has picked figs in Croatia, gone wine tasting in Tuscany, lived in a castle in England, rode an elephant in Thailand, and is currently dreaming up a hiking trip to Machu Picchu. She is the Director of Marketing for an online travel agency and also documents her travels on her blog.

The post Culinary Adventures: Thai Food appeared first on The Lost Girls.

In preparation for our upcoming trip to Paris together, my boyfriend and I spent one January night watching Midnight in Paris. Since this was going to be my third trip to Paris, and his first, I took it upon myself to point out what every single sight in the opening montage was. When I was just about halfway through listing all of my favorite cafes, my boyfriend said, “I can’t wait until we travel someplace neither of us have been.” He had a point: I’d definitely acquired a ‘been there, done that’ attitude towards Paris, and was on the verge of becoming my least favorite type of travel companion—the Know-It-All. You know the type, the one who has been everywhere, knows everything about the place, and will loudly proclaim, “Only tourists do that!” when you mention something you want to see or do there. Here are a few of my suggestions for keeping a happy balance for that first trip together:

Don’t Play Tour Guide

I’m a planner. I can’t help it. I feel better when I have a time table in my head of the things I want to do and see. If it’s a place that I’ve traveled several times, I often feel like it’s my responsibility to show my travel partner a good time. When I travel with my boyfriend, I try to let go of my inner tour guide, and allow myself to relax and just enjoy the trip.

Do Be Flexible

As already discussed here on Lost Girls World, there are lots of different traveling styles. Be sure you both are willing to be flexible when it comes to how you both travel. If it’s your first big trip, it’s going to take a bit of time to adjust to each other’s traveling style.

Do Learn to Grin and Bear it Sometimes

As an experienced traveler, you might not want to see the Coliseum for the fifth time, but if it’s your partner’s first time in Rome, it’s probably on his bucket list of things to do while there. If it’s something you absolutely cannot bear to see again (ie. Lenin’s Tomb, once was enough for me), go find someplace to wander for a while on your own, and offer to meet up with your partner later after he’s had his fill of the sight.

Do Find Things that Are Brand New to Both of You

Eliminate the uneven experiences by finding places and sights that are new to both of you. Check out local blogs and travel websites for new art galleries, unique shows or events that both of you like. This way both of you get to experience something new together.

Don’t be Afraid to Use Your Knowledge

If you do know a lot about a city, use that knowledge to help make the trip go smoother. If your travel partner mentions a “great” café on main street that has a menu with lots of pictures and multiple languages, you should steer him towards a local café instead. At this point, you do have expertise in the city so use it to avoid tourist traps. Don’t be afraid to speak up if it means a more authentic experience.

The post Couples Travel: Dos and Don’ts For Your First Trip Together appeared first on The Lost Girls.

By Gina Douglas

One reason I love when my parents visit  is the yummy nights out they treat me to at delicious gourmet restaurants. So when my mom arrives in town for a visit, I am quick to suggest a trip to a popular Italian restaurant in San Diego. My mom is a quarter Italian, but you’d think she was 100% the way she is obsessed with all things Italian and she immediately agrees to my recommendation.

We get to the restaurant and sit down and my mom instantly notices the Brunello di Montalcino bottle of wine on the menu. It is way over my normal budget for a bottle of wine at a restaurant (like I said, love it when parents visit).

She orders it and the wine arrives. I take one sip and it completely overshadows the rest of the delectable three-course meal. This is what good Italian wine tastes like? This is what I’ve been missing out on with my $4 Italian blends from Trader Joe’s? This. Is. Heavenly. The wine smoothly slides down my throat, coating my tongue in a lingering tangy after-taste, which is made even better when I follow it up with a bit of my beef Carpaccio appetizer. This wine made me sure of one thing: I must go to the source.

A year later my wish comes true. I am going on an 11-night Mediterranean cruise and will be arriving in Rome a couple days before the cruise departs. I know exactly what I have to be doing those two days – or should I say drinking: Brunello di Montalcino and another newfound love – compliments of my Italian wine loving mother – Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

I start my Tuscan wine tasting day in Montepulciano, the town where the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine is made. I enter the town and try to slow myself down from rushing to the nearest wine counter. For starters, it’s 10am in the morning; secondly, the atmosphere of this town is something I don’t want to miss. Hundreds of years ago, the city built high walls to keep the villagers safe from outside attacks. Today, those walls are part of Montepulciano’s allure to bring people in. The combination of narrow streets and high walls results in playful morning shadows crawling down the sides of the walls, some alleyways completely enveloped in the shadow, while others have peeks of sunshine dancing on the walls and ground.

I aimlessly wander through the cool, hushed streets of the morning air until I reach Piazza Grande, Montepulciano’s main square. Here I have a specific destination. I head to Cantine Contucci, a tasting room located inside the ancient stone walls of a building adjacent to the Contucci Palace. The tastings are offered on a walk-in basis and are free; though I can sense there will be an expectation to buy. Which is fine by me. The smiling old winemaker working there doesn’t speak any English, but he can tell from my eager grin what I am after. He pours me a few different tastings of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which I breathe in deeply, savoring its full aroma, before tasting. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is made from a large percentage of Sangiovese grapes and a lower percentage of Canaiolo Nero grapes. It is one of Italy’s oldest wines and has a well-rounded, tannin taste. A more affordable version of this wine is the lighter and fruitier Rosso di Montepulciano, which is also offered to me to taste at Cantine Contucci.

Afterward, I buy a bottle of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and take a walk around the large wine barrels in the dimly lit cellar of Cantine Contucci, marveling at the patience wine making must take.

Brunello di Montalcino

The bold, red Montalcino wine which inspired my excursion in Tuscany was the second item on my itinerary for visiting Tuscan wine towns. The Brunello di Montalcino is actually a fairly new wine in terms of its popularity. Though originally introduced in the 1500’s, it didn’t reach the level of popularity it now enjoys until after World War II. And today, the town of Montalcino offers plentiful places to taste the wine.

The first tasting room I stop at is Enoteca la Fortezza. It is located inside the walls of the fortress with plenty of outdoor seating. The grassy courtyard area is surrounded by four walls and gives me the impression I could sit down with a picnic or pick up a bow and arrow and travel back to medieval times in the open space. I take a seat at an outdoor table on the patio and examine the tasting menu. It offers an option to do a flight of Brunello wines or a mixture of different varietals from the Tuscany region. I go for the Brunello flight. It arrives with different vineyards and years, signified on paper rings circling the bottom of each wine glass. From this flight, I learn 2004 is a famous vintage year and I find it interesting to taste the difference between it and the 2005 as the 2004 is much more robust. My already large infatuation with the wine grows exponentially after the Brunello wine tasting flight. I immediately want to buy up every vintage I try, but unfortunately Brunello di Montalcino does not come cheap – especially for an ‘04. If your budget is like mine and you just can’t quite wrap your head around spending that much on more than one or two bottles of wine, you’re in luck. The Rosso di Montalcino is a more affordable version of the famous wine. It has a shorter aging process and though cheaper, is still dynamic and enjoyable to drink.

After Enoteca La Fortezza, I head inside the walls of Montalcino. Another walled city – which I love. Montalcino has wider, more open streets that lead to a vast courtyard area in the center of town, which gives it a much livelier feel compared to Montepulciano’s more intimate atmosphere.

Getting There

Renting a car and driving is the easiest way to get around Tuscany. Montepulciano is located in the south-east region of Tuscany, about 26 miles south of Siena and 70 miles south of Florence. Montalcino is located about 15-20 minutes west of Montepulciano.

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