At the feet of Buddha

39 days. I have 39 days left in Canada. Wow. Time flies. Fast!

It seems a little surreal that I’ll be flying to Bangkok, Thailand in 39 days. There are so many things to get done by then. I have sponsors to meet with and lock in. I have a crazy fundraiser to plan and put on (is that the right term? put on? sounds weird). I have a ‘To Do’ list that just keeps growing and growing. But I’m pretty sure you don’t want to hear about that stuff now.

So, 39 days. In 39 days I’ll be walking onto an airplane wearing black yoga Capri pants, flip-flops and a t-shirt. I’ll be lugging all my tech gear in a carry-on. I’ll be ready with a warm sweater (those window seats get cold!). I may even have a snack or two stashed in my carry-on.

Once the plan takes off, I’ll slowly leave Canada behind, and get ready for months of hot weather in Thailand.

Ah yes. Sun. Sweat. Street Meat. Those are the things I think about when I think of Thailand. And yes, I think of those things fondly. Even the part about sweating. No, it’s not gross. Sweat is good! Sweat forces you to drink more water, and helps with weight loss. Sweat also gives me that healthy looking ‘glow‘ in photos -I like to pretend its glow, and not sweat. The street meat is simply fabulous and I can tell you what my first dinner in Bangkok will be. Yes, 39 days before I leave Canada and I know exactly where I’m going for dinner in Bangkok. I could give you directions and a time if you want to meet me there. There being a street vendor in Nana.

BEST Shwarma in Bangkok

39 days. 39 days of work, very hard work. In 39 days a lot of the hard work will be finished [although I will still have a lot to do]. In 39 days I will have held a stellar fundraiser and hopefully everyone will be a buzz of excitement about the Mongol Rally. 39 Days. I have a goal. There is a light at the end of the tunnel -even if that light is flashing quickly, giving a sense of urgency.

I generally don’t do countdowns. I don’t mark off a calendar with a big red ‘X’ as the days pass. I do tend to start packing a few days early though.

Although I know I’ll be eating spicy chicken shwarma within 18 hrs of arriving in Bangkok, that is it. That’s all I know.

Okay, that is not 100% true. I also know that I’ll take some time to visit the refugee families that I haven’t seen in almost 2 years. Yes. They are still in Bangkok and most of them are still waiting for the UN to accept their application for refugee status. That means a few of the families have tried to gain refugee status for almost 4 years now. This is something that would take an entire post, so I’m going to leave it at that with a promise to write more about it when I return to Thailand.

I have loved my time in Canada. There were many people who thought that returning to Canada for a few months was a foolish choice. They could not have been more wrong. Spending the last 3.5 months in Canada was the best choice I could have made. I’ve been blessed with some amazing opportunities by being in Canada. I’ve reconnected with friends and I’ve made new ones.

39 days. Wow. The countdown to Thailand begins, as does my 2012 farewell to Canada [don't worry, I will come back].

Saving money is becoming HUGE, especially with the current economy. Shows like Extreme Couponing are becoming more and more popular. And although you may think that only stay-at-home Moms can benefit from a discount coupon, you’re wrong! There is more to coupons than saving a few cents on toothpaste or canned foods. Coupons are not limited to food or household items.

I’ve hung at home, in Canada, since November. It’s been a lovely break and I’ve had a chance to do some great things. But, I have also been worried about things like money. Sure, I’m staying with family, but I don’t want to overspend and I need to save what little money I have coming in. So, I started looking at various ways in which I could spend less and save more. One thing I started to do was search for ‘ca coupons‘ -I’m Canadian, our coupons are different!

At first I thought I would find food and household coupons, which would help a bit, but I found more than that. I also found lots of coupons for travel as well! Sweet!

These coupons are great as they fit every kind of travel style. I was thrilled to find coupon deals for HostelBookers.com on the site. Sure, they’re sponsoring our Eastern European accommodation during the Mongol Rally, but I need to find accommodation for before and after the rally as well! So, imagine my joy at finding a 50% off sale through the Coupon Codes website.

I’m a big fan of time management. As much as I would love to spend all my time sitting on Twitter and Facebook, I can’t. Not now. I love that travel companies like Expedia Canada are listed on the Coupon Codes website. It’s a great way to shop for sales without spending hours and hours surfing the web -unless you love spending hours and hours looking for sales. If that is the case, go for it!

Saving money or looking for travel deals doesn’t have to be painful. It can be a lot of fun. Especially when you consider the amount of money you’ll be saving in the long run.

Whether you’re at home or on the road, there are many ways to pinch pennies and save money. In some instances saving money takes some forethought and planning, but it’s definitely worth it. For me, it’s about resisting the deals that I think are awesome, but cost a little more than if I took the time to look a little more. Clipping coupons from the paper, and printing ones from online are a great way to save money. Yes, it will take a bit of time, but it could save you hundreds of dollars in the long run.

Have you tried couponing to save travel bucks? How did you do it?

View from Angel at Sunshine Village

I’m up for almost anything new and potentially disastrous. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t go out looking for a something that will turn into a disaster. No. But, if I’m presented with an idea, and there is a possibility that could turn into something that resembles a disaster, well, I’m intrigued.

Is that unhealthy? I know it sounds crazy. In fact, several family members and friends have told me so. You know, that I’m crazy.

When I was invited to return to Banff this year to learn how to ski, I was intrigued.

I have avoided skis since 8th grade when a girl in my class skied down a hill, across a parking lot and into a car. Breaking her leg. Yep. I heard about that and I decided to never ski. Not ever.

Until this year.

I flew to Calgary for a 4-day weekend of fun and adventure in Banff. I went snowshoeing in Kootenay National Park. I rode in a dog sled to the Great Divide arch. I swallowed my fears (well, kind of) and put on ski boots for the very first time.

I was at Ski Lake Louise. It was a Saturday and the weather was absolutely gorgeous. After a small breakfast I was lead down to the equipment rental area where I had the awkward task of putting on ski boots.

I take back everything I said last year about snowboarding boots feeling weird. Ski boots are just wrong. Wrong!

Once I had all my gear, I walked awkwardly outside and onto the snow to meet the other newbies. Walking on a slope, in ski boots, for the very first time, was far too weird. Add that I have the ability to slip and fall in a small puddle of water and you’ll understand was incredibly cautious and slow I was. Needless to say, my instructor gave up waiting for me and came to take my skies as I slowly walked towards the group.

Was I embarrassed? Nope. I was too focused on the ‘don’t fall on your ass with everyone watching’ thing.

Putting on skies and slowly walking on flat ground felt slick, but not too bad. It wasn’t until we had to walk up a small slope that I started to get nervous.

Yes. You can laugh at me now.

I have this thing about fear. When I am truly afraid of something (no matter how ridiculous it sounds to you), I have small panic attacks. It doesn’t mean I don’t challenge my fear. I will challenge it. It just means I may have a mini meltdown in the process.

Getting up the slope was interesting. Once I felt comfortable with the side step, I was good to go. Getting down the small slope was an entirely different matter.

My instructor, Marie, held the tips of my skis and encouraged me to ‘make a piece of pizza’ which I was told would help me stop when skiing downhill. That. I understood. It was when she told me to make a bigger piece of pizza that I started to panic.

Marie, my instructor at Ski Louise

Marie bent down and started to stretch my legs further  and further apart. My knees hurt. My legs were bent in ways that didn’t feel natural at all. Plus, it felt like I was squatting and everyone was about to see me do my business.

That is when the panic started to set in. My legs don’t bend like this! OMG there is no way I am going to stop myself! I am going to do a face plant in the snow or break a limb! OMG, if I break my leg, how am I going to drive home when I get back to Toronto?!

It was sad. I know that now. But, when it was real. I was afraid. I was having a small panic attack, and as Marie held the tips of my skis and I started to go down the hill, there were tears running down my cheeks. Yes. Tears.

I know. This is something I should keep to myself. It’s embarrassing. But, if you really want to know what it was like, then I need to tell you, honestly.

I made it down the hill, in one piece. My legs were like Jell-O, the rest of the group was clapping and only Marie and I knew about my small panic attack.

My first panic attack over, and Marie sworn to secrecy (which is pointless now), I took of my skis and made my way back up the hill.

I managed to get in another run, this time without Marie holding my skis. The next run I did without poles. Both times I made it to the bottom in one piece -although my legs were jiggly by the end.

My second day of skiing was a little different. I traveled to Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort for the day.

Putting ski boots on proved to be more challenging and painful than the day before. I couldn’t understand why. By the time I made it through the rental area and walked over to the Gondola, I was in a lot of pain. It was like I had a charlie horse in my feet that wouldn’t go away.

I returned to the rental area, and put on slightly bigger boots. It felt a little better. But still super awkward.

My hill for the day was the bunny hill. Ah, my favourite hill. The one that is short and easy. Sean was going to show me the ropes and didn’t waste time. He snatched my poles and encouraged me to get onto the moving walkway. Except he didn’t know I had never skied onto a moving walkway.

I stood and stared. A very small panic. Nothing close to the day before, but I was afraid. Pathetic? Oh yes, definitely. It was truly sad.

When I finally got myself onto the walkway, I was fine. Until the end of the walkway. For some silly reason when I walked off the walkway, I kept sliding backwards. This wouldn’t matter, expect there were people coming up behind me. I reached out with my hand and motioned for the guy hanging out at the top to give me a hand.

Now that I was at the top of the hill, it was time to go down. Sean reminded me about ‘making a pieces of pizza’ and I slowly (and I mean slowly) started to go down hill. I was nervous. I was going faster than I was comfortable with. But, I made it to the bottom.

My legs were achy and shaky. I asked Sean to help me out of my boots. After a brief rest to get the feeling back in my legs, I put my skis on and attempted another run. This time I was a little more confident.

I spent the morning skiing onto the walkway, skiing down the bunny hill (and attempting to turn) and then spending a ridiculous amount of time off skis in an effort to settle my legs.

It was a sad affair. My legs were sore from the day before, as well as a few bunny hill runs at Sunshine. I wanted to keep going, but I wasn’t sure if my body would allow me to do so. Ultimately, I opted to not go on a real run. I know. It was a cowardly choice. Believe me. I am well aware of the fact that I should have gone on one and prayed that I made it down in one piece. I was also fully aware that Sean was probably more than slightly disappointed. Which bugged me. But, I chose to listen to my joints and not do it.

That being said, I haven’t given up on skiing. I’ve tried both skiing and snowboarding and I think I would be a skier, if given the choice. In fact, I can see myself giving skiing another go next winter.

Have you ever tried something that scared the hell out of you? How did it go?

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Travel doesn’t discriminate. Anyone can travel. You don’t need to cross the ocean to have real life experiences. You can have them in your own backyard if you’re open to them. Be fierce. Be spontaneous. Explore. Discover. Learn. Share. Repeat.

photo credit: Todd Huffman

[Information for this article has been pulled from a variety of travel and health websites, including government websites. The costs listed in the article are Canadian. This article is meant to help educate and inform, but does not replace a visit to the doctor.]

As with all things travel related, it’s your choice as to whether you get travel vaccines or not before a trip. It’s comfort and peace of mind. In some cases receiving a vaccine can be cheaper abroad. That being said, there are some risks involved in getting a vaccine in a foreign country. Make sure you know the risks and that you’re comfortable with them before you make the decision.

In Canada many vaccines are administered through a Travel Clinic. A visit to the clinic usually costs $30-$50 depending on where you live and this does not include the cost of the vaccines. In some cases, if you’ve traveled before and had your Hep A & B shots, as well as your routine boosters, you may not need more shots. But, what if you don’t know if you need another shot for an upcoming trip? Well, you’d have to spend $30-$50 for a travel clinic to tell you yes or no [I cannot tell you how much that pisses me off]. Until now.

I’ve spent a few hours looking through websites on travel vaccines and I have compiled a chart listing each country and the vaccines that are suggested for that country. To view the chart, click here [Please remember that this article and the chart are meant for educational purposes only and should not replace a doctor's visit].

The following is a list of travel vaccines. I’ve given a description. The countries which require the vaccines, and estimated cost.

Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG)

Tuberculosis, or TB, is an infectious bacterial disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which most commonly affects the lungs. It is transmitted from person to person via droplets from the throat and lungs of people with the active respiratory disease.

In healthy people, infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis often causes no symptoms, since the person’s immune system acts to “wall off” the bacteria. The symptoms of active TB of the lung are coughing, sometimes with sputum or blood, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever and night sweats. Tuberculosis is treatable with a six-month course of antibiotics. Source: WHO website

BCG is a vaccine against tuberculosis and is suggested for travellers who plan to be in high tuberculosis areas for an extended period of time -especially if serial skin tests is not available in that area. BCG is about 80% effective in preventing TB for a duration of 15 years. However this number changes depending on where you are.

Where to get vaccine: Contact your local travel clinic and ask about whether you need BCG. Also remember to ask for a TB test before and after your trip.

Cost:  TB Skin Test $40

Cholera

Cholera is an acute intestinal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It has a short incubation period, from less than one day to five days, and produces an enterotoxin that causes a copious, painless, watery diarrhoea that can quickly lead to severe dehydration and death if treatment is not promptly given. Vomiting also occurs in most patients. Source: WHO website

The Cholera vaccine has not been required at border crossing since 1973, however some local authorities in parts of Africa have asked travellers for proof of the vaccine. This is something that is unpredictable.

Research the countries you plan to visit in Africa. If there is evidence of Cholera, contact your local travel clinic and ask if they issue ‘exemption certificates’ for the vaccine. This should keep the authorities happy. You can also opt to have the vaccine, Dukoral [see below].

Note: Do not get this vaccine while abroad, as there are several risks involved. If you take Dukoral for travellers’ diarrhea, this will also combat the risk of Cholera.

Where to get vaccine: Contact your local travel clinic and ask about

Cost:  See cost for Dukoral

Dukoral

Dukoral is used to prevent travellers’ diarrhea caused by enterotoxigenic E. coli and cholera. If you plan to take this vaccine to prevent Cholera (under the advisement of your doctor) you should receive two doses. The second dose should be given q week before your departure. Protection lasts for 3 months.

This vaccines is taken orally and tastes nasty.

Where to get vaccine: Contact your doctor about whether this is something you should consider.

Cost: $75 for Primary. $40 Booster dose.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by a viral infection. There are five main hepatitis viruses, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E. These five types are of greatest concern because of the burden of illness and death they cause and the potential for outbreaks and epidemic spread.

Hepatitis A and E are typically caused by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Source: WHO website

Highly recommended for all travel to developing countries, especially rural areas or areas with poor sanitary conditions. The vaccine takes a period of 2 to 7 weeks to incubate. In many instances travellers are given the TwinRix vaccine, which covers both Hepatitis A & B.

Where to get vaccine: Contact your local travel clinic and ask about this vaccine

Cost: $60 for primary dose. $45 for Booster Dose. Twinrix $70

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, most commonly caused by a viral infection. There are five main hepatitis viruses, referred to as types A, B, C, D and E. These five types are of greatest concern because of the burden of illness and death they cause and the potential for outbreaks and epidemic spread.

Hepatitis B, C and D usually occur as a result of parenteral contact with infected body fluids. Common modes of transmission for these viruses include receipt of contaminated blood or blood products, invasive medical procedures using contaminated equipment and for hepatitis B transmission from mother to baby at birth, from family member to child, and also by sexual contact. Source: WHO website

Hepatitis B is the most common serious liver infection in the world. Infected areas include Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. Hepatitis B is spread through having contact with the blood, semen, vaginal fluids and other bodily fluids of someone who is infected. This disease can also be transmitted by unclean tattoo or acupuncture needles, or shared toothbrushes, razors and nail clippers.

Where to get vaccine: Contact your local travel clinic and ask about this vaccine

Cost: $40. Twinrix $70

Japanese Encephalitis

Pigs and various wild birds represent the natural reservoir of this virus, which is transmitted to new animal hosts and occasionally humans by mosquitoes of the genus Culex.

Most infections in humans are asymptomatic. In symptomatic cases, severity varies: mild infections are characterized by febrile headache or aseptic meningitis or encephalitis; severe cases have a rapid onset and progression with headache, high fever and meningeal signs. Permanent neurological sequelae are common among survivors. Approximately 25% of severe clinical cases have a fatal outcome. Source: WHO website

Japanese encephalitis is the leading cause of encephalitis in Asia, but rare in travellers. There is increased presence of the disease in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, northern Thailand and Vietnam. Japanese encephalitis epidemics usually occur in summer or early fall. Immunization is suggested for travellers who plan to spend more than a month in infected areas. 2 doses are suggested for this vaccine.

Where to get vaccine: Visit your local travel clinic to receive this vaccine.

Cost: $400 ($200 per dose)

Measles, Mumps, Rubella

Measles, mumps and rubella are endemic in many countries. Two does of MMR are recommended for unimmunized adults who were born in or after 1970. It is also recommended for travellers going into an measles-endemic area. Rubella is suggested for women of child-baring years.

Many of us receive this vaccine going into high school.

Where to get vaccine: Your doctor can give this to you. You do not need to go to a travel clinic.

Cost: FREE (if it is not covered by your medical plan the cost is $40)

Meningococcal Meningitis

Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial form of meningitis, a serious infection of the meninges that affects the brain membrane. It can cause severe brain damage and is fatal in 50% of cases if untreated.

The bacteria are transmitted from person-to-person through droplets of respiratory or throat secretions from carriers. Close and prolonged contact – such as kissing, sneezing or coughing on someone, or living in close quarters (such as a dormitory, sharing eating or drinking utensils) with an infected person (a carrier) – facilitates the spread of the disease. The average incubation period is four days, but can range between two and 10 days. Source: WHO website

Menigococcal Meningitis is endemic in Canada,  with increased activity every 10-15 years. This disease is also prevalent during Mecca in Saudi Arabia. There is a ‘meningitis belt’ which extends through savannah areas of sub-Saharan Africa from Gambia and Senegal to Ethiopia and Western Eritrea. You can also check the WHO website for Meningococcal disease updates.

This vaccine is required for all travellers entering Saudi Arabia during Hajj.

Where to get vaccine: Speak with someone at your local travel clinic.

Cost: $130

Poliomyelitis

Poliomyelitis (polio) is a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children. The virus is transmitted through contaminated food and water, and multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system. Many infected people have no symptoms, but do excrete the virus in their faeces, hence transmitting infection to others.

Initial symptoms of polio include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. In a small proportion of cases, the disease causes paralysis, which is often permanent. Polio can only be prevented by immunization. Source: WHO website

A single dose of poliomyelitis (IPV). The risk of polio has decreased over the years. This vaccine is generally administered when entering high school. If you have not received the vaccine and plan to travel to a country experiencing a poliovirus endemic, consult your doctor.

Where to get vaccine: Your doctor can give this to you. You do not need to go to a travel clinic.

Cost: FREE if covered by your medical plan. (if not covered $15)

Rabies

Rabies is a zoonotic disease (a disease that is transmitted to humans from animals) that is caused by a virus. The disease infects domestic and wild animals, and is spread to people through close contact with infected saliva via bites or scratches. Source: WHO website

Rabies is should be considered for travellers who will be living or working in areas where rabies is enzootic and control programs for domestic animals is poor, or where safe post-exposure treatment is not available. After exposure to a rabid animal, administer 2 more doses of the rabies vaccine as soon as possible.

Where to get vaccine: Visit your doctor or local travel clinic

Cost: $600 ($200 per dose)

Tetanus and Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheria, transmitted from person to person through close physical and respiratory contact. It can cause infection of the nasopharynx, which may lead to breathing difficulties and death Source: WHO website

Adults should receive a booster dose every 10 years.

Where to get vaccine: Your doctor can give this to you. You do not need to go to a travel clinic.

Cost: FREE if covered by your medical plan (if not covered $15)

Typhoid

Typhoid fever is a bacterial disease, caused by Salmonella typhi. It is transmitted through the ingestion of food or drink contaminated by the faeces or urine of infected people.

Symptoms usually develop 1–3 weeks after exposure, and may be mild or severe. They include high fever, malaise, headache, constipation or diarrhoea, rose-coloured spots on the chest, and enlarged spleen and liver. Healthy carrier state may follow acute illness. Source: WHO website

Typhoid is recommended for travellers who have prolonged (more than 4 weeks) exposure to contaminated food and water. Typhoid is also present in smaller cities, villages or rural areas that are off-the-beaten-path. The vaccine is also recommended for travellers with reduced or absent gastric acid secretion.

Where to get vaccine: Local travel clinic

Cost: $40 injectable. $50 oral.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a viral disease, found in tropical regions of Africa and the Americas. It principally affects humans and monkeys, and is transmitted via the bite of Aedes mosquitoes. It can produce devastating outbreaks, which can be prevented and controlled by mass vaccination campaigns.

The first symptoms of the disease usually appear 3–6 days after infection. The first, or “acute”, phase is characterized by fever, muscle pain, headache, shivers, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. After 3–4 days, most patients improve and symptoms disappear. However, in a few cases, the disease enters a “toxic” phase: fever reappears, and the patient develops jaundice and sometimes bleeding, with blood appearing in the vomit (the typical “vomito negro”). About 50% of patients who enter the toxic phase die within 10–14 days.

There is no specific treatment for yellow fever. Vaccination is highly recommended as a preventive measure for travellers to, and people living in, endemic countries. Source: WHO website

The yellow fever vaccine is valid for 10 years and travellers who receive the vaccine should keep their certificate with their passport in case they are asked for it during a border crossing.The choice to immunize for yellow fever is dependent on your itinerary.

Where to get vaccine: Travel clinics authorized by PHAC. Check with your local clinic for this information.

Cost: $125 – $180
Getting Vaccinations Abroad

Although many of us are vaccinated in our home country, there are other options. If you’re planning long term travel it may be cheaper to wait and buy your vaccinations abroad. This is something that is totally up to you. Just remember to do your research and make sure you are comfortable with your decision. Your comfort counts.

The following is a list of countries that offer travel clinics. As much as I would love to recreate their information and fee charts, it would take way too long. So, simply click on the country to see what their fees are for the various vaccines. I’ve listed countries that I know are safe in terms of vaccinations based on either personal experience or the experience of friends.

Canada (Yellow Fever vaccine)

England

Hong Kong

Ireland

Thailand

USA

Ultimately you can get travel vaccinations in any European country, as well as in North America and there will be no issues. These clinics will be a little more expensive that those in Thailand. Be cautious. I wouldn’t advise getting shots in 3rd world countries. Trust your gut. If the clinic doesn’t look sterile, what are the chances that the needle is sterile?

If you’d have a positive experience in terms of travel vaccinations while abroad, please share in the comments below so I can update this article.

Article Resources

The following is a list of websites I used to gather the information for this article. As stated above, this article does not replace a doctor’s visit, but acts as an education tool.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

Public Health Agency of Canada

World Health Organization (WHO)

Dog sledding through the trees in Lake Louise

Perfect winter days don’t come along very often. Especially in Canada. I’m not saying that they don’t happen. It’s just rare.

The day I went dog sledding in Lake Louise with KingMik was a perfect winter day. The sky was blue and clear. The air was cool, but not frigid. The sun was shining. The snow was white and sparkly, which covered the ground and clung to the branches of the evergreens. A winter wonderland. A perfect winter day.

The air was filled with the sound of dogs barking as I stepped off the bus and onto the snow-covered parking lot in Lake Louise.

I’ve always been a wee bit nervous around dogs. I never know if they are friendly, or if they are going to bite my hand off.

I met Melissa, my driver (Is that what they’re called? The people who control the sled. Is it musher? No clue!), then proceeded to check out the team of dogs that would be pulling the sled and taking me to the Great Divide arch.

The dogs, Alaskan huskies, were eager and friendly. Sheila, a rescue dog with stunning blue eyes, was quite shy, but the rest were eager to sniff my hand. Lick me. And then beg for even more attention.

I stood on the snow and watched a two teams of dogs left, then slowly climbed into a wooden dog sleigh and settled in for the ride.

Melissa covered me with an orange and black sleeping bag, then started to velcro me into the sleigh.

I sat in the sleigh and watched as Melissa hooked the dogs to the leads.

From time to time I felt a jolt in the sleigh as the dogs jumped and barked. I could feel their excitement and adrenaline. In a way, it was as though I could read their thoughts. They were ready. It was almost time.

Run. We get to run!

Run. We get to run. We get to run in the snow!

Melissa hooked in the last dog, and the sleigh jolted. Dogs jumped in the air. It was time. It was time to run.

I sat in the sleigh, rested my camera in my lap, and settled in.

Melissa took the break off the sleigh.

The sleigh jolted and we were off.

Cool air whipped around my face as the dogs ran. The ride was smooth, well except for the occasional lump of snow.

As with snowshoeing, my mind seemed to clear and soon as I feeling euphoric. The stresses of prepping for the Mongol Rally were gone. The massive to do list in my head became empty.

I sat in the sleigh and watched the evergreen trees slip by. I watched mountain peaks come into view and disappear again behind the trees. I watched cross-country skiers. I watched the dogs.

Melissa stopped the dogs to give them a little rest, and to take a few photos of me inside the sleigh. The scenery around me was stunning. I was in Lake Louise. It’s hard to find scenery there that sucks. I don’t even think that is even possible.

Me, sitting in the dog sled

As the dogs rested, we chuckled. One of the lead dogs was laying in the snow, peeing. Have you ever seen a dog lay in the snow to pee? It’s hilarious.

I knew the dogs were ready to run when I felt the sleigh jolt. They were excited. They wanted to run in the snow.

The dogs ran and Melissa and I chatted as we made our way to the Great Divide arch. The place where the water divides. Some flowing east, some flowing west.

As the dogs rans back towards the parking lot, I sat and listened to the snow crunching, and the dogs running. I chatted with Melissa. I took an insane amount of photos.

Most of all, I let my eyes glide over the landscape. I stared at trees like it was the first time I was seeing trees covered in snow. I looked at sparkling white meadows, hoping to  see a bunny hop across the landscape or a wolf lurching behind some trees.

I’m not a fan of winter. I wear flip flops whenever possible. I don’t wear a jacket unless it’s absolutely frigid outside. I am not a fan of winter.

Sitting in a dog sleigh, starring at trees, sparkly meadows, snow-covered mountains and blue skies made me forget how much I am not a fan of winter.

In the time that I was in the dog sled, I felt Canadian.

At one time this part of Canada was inhabited by lumberjacks, explorers and traders. Dog sleds were the only mode of transportation at times. Sure, I was going for a joy ride, but it was also a taste of life in the late 1800‘s and early 1900‘s.

My great great grandfather was a trader.

There is a Tide commercial that says “No self respecting Canadian says its too cold out…”. When I went dog sledding I felt as though that commercial was speaking about me.

I may hate winter, but I know how to enjoy it when I feel like it.

I am Canadian. Well, a part-time Canadian.

“Oh my crap. 4  hours?! 3 kilmoeters?!” I was in a slight panic as I read the snowshoeing description on the Discover Banff Tours website.

When I decided to go snowshoeing in Banff, I was excited. I had never tried snowshoeing before, and I’m always up for trying something new. Then I went snowshoeing at Thirty Bench (which was lovely) and pulled my groin when I tripped over my own feet and fell down. How did I not know that snowshoeing was hard?!

As I turns out, I was totally wrong.

I almost skipped out on the snowshoeing. I almost wimped out.

Almost!

We drove from Banff into Kootenay National Park and to the trailhead for the Paint Pots.

There was snow everywhere. Something I haven’t really seen this winter (Ontario is having a very mild winter). It was beautiful. The trees had clumps of white snow clinging to their branches. The sky was blue and dotted with clouds. The sun was shining. The air was cool, but not too cold.

A lovely mix for an afternoon outdoors.

I put on my navy blue plastic snowshoes with metal grips on the bottom, slung my camera gear over my shoulder, grabbed a pole and followed Anick and the rest of the group onto the trail.

The trail was well worn, but the the rest of the forest floor  and evergreen trees were covered in fresh white snow. It was gorgeous. Virgin ground.

Anick started chatting about moving off the trail, and I started to have memories of my ass hurting. But, I was going to do this the right way and give it a go.

Anick stepped off the trail and into the virgin snow. It looked like easy work as she made her way through the trees. I took a short breath and followed her. Not bad. I made another step. “Waaahhhhhmp” I squealed, as I sank into the snow. I was now standing in snow passed my knees. I had no idea how to get out. I tried moving my foot, but it didn’t seem to help. Soon both of my feet had sunk and I was struggling to get them free.

I chuckled (and so did everyone else) as I worked my feet free and stepped out of the holes and back onto the trail.

“So, yeah. I’m gonna follow the trail and be your photographer”, I knew I was being a bit of a wimp, but I was also carrying camera equipment and I didn’t want to get it wet, plus, I wanted to make it to the end without being in intense pain.

Have I convinced you that I am not totally pathetic? Good!!

Snowshoeing through the trees

Anick decided to snowshoe a little further down, then she and the rest of the group left the trail to break ground. I stayed. At first it seemed sad and slightly pathetic, but as I snowshoed, my small feelings of shame disappeared.

The air was cool, the sky was a brilliant blue, the group was off in the distance and I was left alone to soak in the atmosphere around me. For a time, I forgot I was with other people. I felt as though it was just me and Mother Nature. My mind started to clear and soon I was feeling euphoric. I was in the middle of a National Park. I was surrounded by mountains, trees and snow. It was absolute bliss (and exactly what I needed).

Soon, our paths crossed and as the group continued to break ground, I wandered off the well worn path, to one that was a little newer. Yes. I was such a daring adventurer. You’re jealous. I can tell.

We snowshoed through meadows and trees, up hills (which is when I fell to the back of the group), and to the paint pots.

Although most of the Paint Pots were covered in a thick layer of snow, there were a few openings. I walked lightly around the group to looked at the ochre coloured water peaking through the snow. As I snapped photos, I made a mental note to return to the paint pots during the summer. One day.

Paint Pots peaking out from under the snow

Once most of us had caught our breath (okay, once I had caught my breath), Anick lead us through the trees, and up a small embankment.

“I’m going to go down to the meadow up ahead and start cooking the maple taffy. You can come down using the trail, or you can break ground.”

This time I wasn’t alone. One of the other girls decided to stick to the trail as well.

We laughed as we slowly navigated the downward slope. Occasionally looking to see how the rest of the group was doing in terms of ‘breaking trail’. Several struggled to get through the tress. Many fell.

Snowshoeing down the slope on the trail was a little easier, but the trail was skinny and trying to keep myself from tripping over my own feet was a challenge. As we reached the end of the trail and the beginning of the meadow, there was a log in the way. The drop after the log looked a little large, but I was going to do it anyway.

I turned to the side and decided to attempt to get down using side steps. It was a logical idea.

I fell.

It took a minute for me to get my feet back to where they should be. At first I thought of standing up and giving it another go. Then I realized that I would probably end up in the snow again. So, I did what any small child would do.

I scooted down on my butt!

Yes. I am such a brave adventurer. When in doubt of my ability to safely navigate a log using my feet, I switch things up and use my butt.

We snowshoed into the meadow and made our way to Anick. It was time for our break and Anick was busy making Maple Taffy.

Anick making Maple Taffy

We spent 20 minutes in the meadow.

Anick made Maple Taffy using a small backpacking stove as the rest of us stood in the meadow, catching our breath, and drinking hot chocolate. One of the guys in the group was British and had never heard of crazy carpets (Canada’s answer to tobogganing), so after a brief demonstration by Anick, he grabbed the blue crazy carpet, walked up the slope and gave it a go.

He was pretty good. Even though his face gathered more snow than the rest of him.

photo credit: Fotos Gov/BA

I’ve recently decided to write a series of articles about health and travel.

I know what you’re thinking, why would a girl who can’t stand to go to a doctor write about health and travel? Well there are a few reasons. One of them being the fact that if I take care of myself, then I definitely do not need to see a doctor, ever!

The first article in this series was published at the end of January, The Quest for Travel Insurance & Health Information Before I Travel. It’s an interesting debate, and if you haven’t given your opinion, check out the article and do so!

This week I’m tackling the dreaded health check-up before and after a long trip.

I know. I’m sounding like a wimp and it goes against my nature. Hear me out though.

Many of us (I am just as guilty as the next person) book our flights, pack our bags, and head out without so much as a second thought. However there are times when taking a step back and making time for a health check-up is a good idea.

The scope of your ‘check-up’ depends on you, your budget and what you want to take care of before you go. We’re all different, and our agendas will differ as well.

Eye Care

If you’re planning a long-term trip and wear glasses, you may consider switching to contact lenses or doing the whole Laser Sight surgery thing. Laser sight surgery is not cheap. But if you’ve been thinking of doing it, then consider doing it before your trip. Just think of the money you’ll save on contact lenses, solution or lost/broken eye glasses!

Visit your optometrist a few months before your trip for a check-up and to schedule your appointment before you leave.

If you opt to keep your glasses, ask for a  script that you can take with you, incase you lose or break your glasses.

Foot Care,

You never thought of foot care, did ya?! Ha!

I write this mostly because I’ve suffered from plantar fasciitis (in both feet) over the years. It’s painful and annoying.

Thanks to my wee foot problem, I take a little more time in terms of foot care. Before a trip I choose walking shoes with good support and carry super strength Motrin for the pain when it strikes. I could have custom inserts made for my shoes, but I’m cheap. However, you may not be as cheap as I am, and not willing to put up with months of pain.

Internal Medicine

Now that makes me feel important, writing Internal Medicine. Not convincing? Okay, moving on…

This part depends on where you’re traveling, how long and the type of activities you’re going to do.

If you’re planning a trip that is 3 months or longer, it’s a good idea to have a physical before you go [enter lightning here]. Why? Well, it clears up any lingering medical problems you may have and are not already aware of. It’s also a good idea to have a physical after a long trip to make sure you haven’t picked up an parasites etc.

Scripts, Meds & Vitamins

Do you have a medical condition that requires regular prescriptions? Make sure you visit your doctor before your trip to discus where you’re going, what you’ll need to bring with you and scripts the doctor will need to give you, just in case.

If you visit a Naturopath, visit them and have a similar discussion as the one above. Ask about herbs that are popular and easy to find in just about any country. Also ask about easy on-the-road remedies.

[if you’re interested in more information about Naturopathic medicine, stay tuned for my article/interview on tips for travel with a long-time friend and Naturopath]

Vaccines

I absolutely detest travel clinics. In Canada they charge us a fee to tell us which vaccines we need and which ones we don’t. As someone who researches what she needs, I find it to be a waste of my money. Unfortunately it’s mandatory as many travel vaccines are only available in these clinics.

It’s a good idea to research what you need, and if you don’t have the time, ask lots of questions. What are the side effects? How long does the vaccine last? How much does it cost? Is there more than one shot and how long apart do they need to be? You’re paying for this appointment, so be prepared and get your monies worth before you leave!

Checking your health before (and after) a trip can feel daunting. Whether you take the time to do any of the things listed above is totally up to you. I’ve done it both ways.

Just remember, at the end of the day, it’s your trip. Your life. Your future. Make choices that you’re comfortable with.

The way you think, the way you behave, the way you eat, can influence your life by 30 to 50 years. -Deepak Chopra

This is the second article in a series of articles about Health + Travel. If you’d like me to cover a specific topic, please post your ideas to the SpunkyGirl Monologues Facebook wall. 

[A portion of this article has been sponsored, however the thoughts, tips, tricks and advice are my own.]

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Pamukkale [photo credit: LePendu

All you lucky people speeding off on the Mongol Rally are probably so busy finding visas, sponsors and more people to brag to that you might have forgotten about the most fun part – planning some sightseeing! The drive through Turkey’s colourful, heritage-rich landscape will be a highlight of your journey, but there’s so much in Turkey worth making a stop for.

Many Mongol Rally teams will be entering Turkey from Bulgaria, where Istanbul will be the first sojourn on your Turkish adventure. As you’ll discover, Istanbul is fully deserved of its manic reputation with bustling streets, beautiful buildings and exciting scents wafting around every corner.

Nowhere is more evident of Istanbul’s madness than at the Grand Bazaar, where over 4000 shops sell everything from camel bags to carpets. If you’re feeling brave you can try your hand at a spot of haggling, or just take in the unique atmosphere – if you can fend off the pushy shopkeepers, that is!

Not patient enough for the Grand Bazaar? You could always spend your time basking in the beauty of Istanbul’s Blue Mosque and listening for the haunting refrain of the call to prayer, or just refuelling with a traditional dish of koftes or an authentic Shish kebab. A glass of ouzo wouldn’t hurt either, so long as it isn’t your turn to drive of course.

Pause at Pamukkale

Don’t linger too long in Istanbul because you can’t miss an afternoon at Pamukkale, an incredible natural hot spa site that’s often called the ‘Cotton Castle’.

This name refers to the enormous white travertine cliffs at the site, formed after years of hot calcium-rich water flowing over them and solidifying into natural pools. Tourists flock to Pamukkale to relax whilst on their holidays to Turkey, and it’s certainly the perfect place for Mongol Rally members to take a break from all that driving.

One of the most breathtaking sites to visit in Turkey is the ancient city of Ephesus, about three hours’ drive from Pamukkale but well worth the diversion. Located on the Aegean coast, Ephesus is the most well-preserved Roman city in the Mediterranean – yes, it’s (arguably) better than visiting Rome itself!

In fact, this area of the world is quite the archaeological hotspot as only a walk away from Ephesus is the Temple of Artemis, which as any history buff will tell you, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Unfortunately only a few columns remain of this enormous marble temple, but it’s still fascinating to spend a little time in the area and visualise how majestic the temple had once been.

Life’s a Beach

The nearby resort of Bodrum is a firm favourite among Jet2holidays customers for its cheap hotels, and it’s the ideal place to spend the night, though you won’t be able to resist a few well-earned hours on its gorgeous beaches which are lapped by turquoise waters. The Underwater Archaeology Museum is here too, in the grounds of Bodrum Castle, an epic setting for any museum but particularly one that houses so many fascinating shipwrecks.

Unfortunately you will have to depart from Turkey at some point, but if your route to your next destination includes central Turkey, plot in a trip to Cappadocia.

This moonscape-like Volcanic site in Central Anatolia is so enchanting that it even merited a mention in the Bible, and nowadays there are painted churches, cave houses and intriguingly-shaped natural columns of rocks that are nicknamed ‘fairy chimneys’. Without a doubt it’s the most stunning landscape found anywhere in Turkey, and will leave an impression in your memory that you won’t forget for many miles, or even countries, to come.

Last night when I slowly carried my things to the second floor of the HI Calgary, it was really this morning. It was after midnight. I was tired. My flight from Toronto had been delayed at the gate for 30 minutes, which meant 30 minutes less sleeping time.

I opened the door to room 210 slowly. The lights were off and the occupants were asleep. I crept inside, careful to shut the door quickly and quietly. Which is when my bag fell over and made a loud thud. I quietly cursed myself as I struggled to move my bag in the darkness and set my things on the bed.

I set the alarm on my iPhone for 6:20 a.m as I’m suppose to take a shuttle to Banff so I’ll arrive in time for snowshoeing today. Once the alarm is set, I grab the covers, lay down and attempt to sleep.

My sleep is a restless one. I know I only have 5.5hrs at the most before I need to be awake. Deep sleep eludes me.

After a few hours my mind starts to worry about the time. I slowly open my eyes and check my phone. 5:02 a.m. I reassure myself that I have over an hour left and go back to sleep. But it’s only for a short time. Soon I’m awake again. Laying in bed. Listen to the other girls sleep and hearing Adele’s Someone Like You play over and over in my head.

6:16 am. I give up and slowly sit up in bed. I silently gather my things in the dark, put on my flip-flops and quietly sneak out the door. I make my way downstairs and give my room key to the guy behind the desk. “That was a short sleep”, “Yeah, I need to catch a shuttle at 7:20, do you know the fastest way to 4th & 3rd?”

We chat a bit. Which 4th & 3rd? 4th Street & 3rd Ave? 4th Ave & 3rd Street? I don’t know. I can’t remember what I was told on the phone yesterday. All I know is that they were going to ask the shuttle to let me off in Banff instead of at Sunshine Ski & Snowboard Resort. I would have taken the Brewster shuttle, but I need to be in Banff by 1:15 am for my snowshoeing activity this afternoon.

After a few minutes, I gave up and decided to call the shuttle service. I’m sure they have an automated answering service with pick-up details. Everyone does, right? As I dial their number, I look more closely at my iPad. It’s not 6:20 a.m., it’s 4:20 a.m. I forgot to change the time on my iPhone when we landed! I could be sleeping for another 2 hours!!

I can’t believe my stupidity. How could I forget something so basic?!

The phone rings and then a guy answers. I curse to myself and hope I didn’t just wake him up. I ask where the stop is. It’s at 4th Ave & 3rd Street. Then I verify that I’m being dropped off in Banff. “No. We don’t drop off in Banff, we go to Sunshine only.” He sounds irritated. I thank him and hang-up.

My morning seems to be getting more complicated at times goes by. If I take the shuttle, I’ll have to go all the way out to Sunshine Village, then find a shuttle going back to Banff.  This would be okay, but it puts a rush on checking into the hotel and getting ready for snowshoeing. If I wait until 10:20 a.m. and take the Brewster bus, I won’t be in Banff in time to go snowshoeing. My only other option is the Greyhound bus at 7:45 a.m.

I guess I’m paying for a taxi to the Greyhound bus terminal and taking the Greyhound to Banff this morning. Hopefully I get on the bus (if there is a line, I may not even get on) and all will be smooth sailing once I get to Banff.

I still can’t believe that I forgot to change the time on my iPhone. As I write this post, all I can think about is the fact that I could be sleeping, if I hadn’t checked out.

Let’s hope there is a miracle when I arrive at the hotel in Banff and I’m able to check-in right away. That way I can lay down for a 2 hour power nap before I go snowshoeing!

At Dune 45 in Namibia

“Is this really my life?” I asked myself.

I signed on the do the Mongol Rally in December, and ever since then I have been busy. Very busy. Some days I become so consumed with what I need to do, that I forget to sit back and take a look at my life from a different angle.

It’s so easy to get caught up in the little things happening around me.

I’m not alone, I know this.

This past week I went to a taping of Cupcake Girls from inside a streetcar in Toronto. I had taken my best friend (we’ve known each other for 30+ years). I had made an absurd decision. I wore flip-flops. There was no snow on the ground, why should I wear boots?! I also didn’t wear a jacket. I’ve become really good at the mind over matter thing, so the cold didn’t really bother me.

People stared.

I figured all the stares were due to my brief break from sanity.

I was wrong, not all the stares had to due with my attire or lack there of. One stare was from a guy that I went to high school with.

During the event I chatted with my childhood BFF and we chatted about what each of us were up to. Travel was among our topics of conversation and as we were in a very crowded and confined space, the conversation floated beyond myself and my BFF.

It wasn’t until after I left and headed back to my car that I asked myself “Is this really my life?”.

When did I forget that I lead an amazing life? When did this become like just another day?

View of Sultan Mosque in Singapore

I’m lucky. I woke up and decided that I wanted more joy in my life. I made the choice to turn my lust for travel into a full-time obsession.  It’s something that many people dream about, but never do.

I’m not saying that if you’re not traveling, you’re not happy with your life. I’m saying if I am not travelling, I am not happy with my life.

It took a long time for me to throw caution to the wind and follow my heart. I dreamed of doing it for years. I talked of doing it for years. I came up with excuse after excuse about why I couldn’t do it, for years. Then my Grandmother became deathly ill and I started to look at the way I was living my life. I was tired. I was cranky. I was unhealthy.

I would cry when I returned home from vacation. Not because I was happy to be home. Because being home was depressing.

It wasn’t a cake-walk, giving up my life to blog and travel. It was challenging. Good thing I love challenges.

I’ve blogged for over 2 years now, and I am just starting to feel like I am getting this whole blog thing. I’m making connections. I’m making some money from my blog. I’m writing articles for other websites and getting paid for it!

I’m doing things that I never dreamed of doing and I love it.

Over the past few years I have hung around fellow bloggers and travellers. In those circles I feel shy and at times I have felt like I’m not doing this right. I’ve stressed. I’ve worried.

Then, I work harder. It’s kind of like I never left my retail management job.

Nicole, my childhood BFF, helped snap me out of my zombie-like state. I am living an amazing life. I’m doing what I love to do, and it makes me happy. I’m lucky.

Today, I’ve done some planning for the Mongol Rally. I’ve emailed potential sponsors. I’ve tweaked the SpunkyGirl Monologues Facebook page. I’ve also thought a lot about the countries I’ve traveled to and the ones I’ll be traveling to this year.

I’m still a travel newbie in terms of country counts, but that doesn’t make me less important than those who have been to more countries. I travel slow. I like to learn about new cultures, people and food. I’ve made friends with people from around the world. I’ve stopped worrying about having every detail taken care of. Now, I jump in with both feet and pray that I make it. I know that would freak some people out, but for me it’s a rush. It’s a challenge. It’s addictive.

I’m lucky. I live an amazing life. I turned my lust into an obsession that pays. 

Holy crap. This is really my life!!

I get to travel the world, and write about it. I get to meet cool people. I get to try new foods. I get to see new countries. I get to help friends with their travel questions. I get to read awesome emails from my readers. This is really my life.

I did it. I left my comfort zone. I went in search of my dream and I grabbed ahold of it with both hands. Sure, I still work hard to make this blog interesting and to create a community on Facebook. But it’s something I enjoy doing. It’s something I want to do. It makes me happy.

This is really my life.