traveljulie

What's On The Menu: Hong Kong Part I

2007-02-12T13:09:00.000-05:00

A highlight of this newest adventure was to eat my way thru hong Kong and China. Thus far my tastebuds fancies have delightfully been tickled.

My oral exploration began with my first bowl of noodles and wontons not long after landing. A great way to start any asian adventure.

Day 2. We visited the best dim sum restaurant EVER (According to my humble guide. Having nothing to compare with I am therefore inclined to agree with her to date).The restaurant with the red door, Lin Heung Hau, was everything I'd been told it would be. Ascending up into the heavens, we entered a massive room filled with large round tables, and covered in tea. Not as dramatic as you'd think, more like an Asian diner that's had pale weak tea spilled ALL over it. We quickly joined a family and Jenn wasted no time in getting the meal underway. She ran around hecticly chasing the slow moving women wheeling carts of various dim sum around the restaurant. She even made a special trip to the kitchen to request special steamed buns. All the while the staff and our dining companions marvelling at her excellent Cantonese (Jenn is 5ft, red haired, energetic, and has lived here for 4 yrs now).

Our meal consisted of shrimp then ham & veg steamed dumplings, cooked pork bits (watch out for bone), sauteed greens (choi sum), topped off with bbq pork steamed buns. All washed down with Iron Buddha tea.

Dessert was found elsewhere at a famous little pastry shop selling the best egg tarts in town. Followed by a freshly squeezed mango juice, we fund ourselves rolling around town the rest of the afternoon happily glowing in satisfaction.

Day 3. Day trip to Cheung Chau Island. Buns for breakfast is a wonderful way to "get up and go". Spicy beef and sweet corn was my preferred wake-up call that morning, followed by another steamed bbq pork bun. With fine items like this to choose from I think I may be able to survive quite easily without my eggs and toast. Although the "coffee in a can" pales in comparison to my sweet's "alongé's" with soya milk back home.

We explored part of the island, offering me my first lesson in temple "know-how". 3 incense sticks are good. 4 are BAD (4 is a number equal to death). Proper 3 bow technique were shown me and I made my prayers to unknown gods for their protection in my upcoming mainland travels. I hope that dragon does his job! We wandered along the waterfront past restaurants, and found ourselves meandering upwards to find a pagoda effering excellent views of a new bay begging exploration. Hunger finally took over and we headed for our promised feast.

Down along the waterfront we found a restaurant, or more like the hostess found us, convincing us that hers was where we needed to be. Mobile phones were pulled out, calls and text messages made and sent, and an extra table and chairs were arranged for our party.

Amid pleasant conversation and more delicious tea, we feasted on the following: Scallops & Brocolli, Salt & Garlic Prawns, Mixed Fried Rice, Mango & Chicken, Steamed Fish, Spicy Snails (complete with wooden scewer for extraction), and Garlic Scallops.

The ferry ride home had part of our group doing a quick "teach and learn" salsa lesson. To burn off extra calories for the next round of food. Did it work? Only time will tell if my pants finally start feeling looser after weeks of this diet. Guess we'll know in 2 months time!

Bumpy ride in a rusty tin can

2007-02-11T12:03:00.000-05:00

Journey from Montreal to Hong Kong

Point form of the images and situations that stuck out along the way:

* The first bus taking me to the airport is the 211. It was replaced by... the "Special" bus. Come On!

* Citrus fruit and customs do not mix. Woops! And since when do we have to take our shoes off to go thru the detectors? No wonder the floors look so well buffed. The "electronic passports" sign made it feel more futuristic.

* Detroit airport. A cool fountain shooting "water worms" thru the air, and a sky tram moving people around. The futuristic theme continues.

* Northwest Airlines Part 1: Detroit to Tokyo. Oh my! The airplane looked a bit worse for wear as did the crew. They appeared to despise us & took great pleasure in sarcasm. Headache from hell complete with mysterious nausea, added to the pleasantness of the experience.

* Tokyo-Narita airport. Cleanest toilet stalls in the world (you notice these things as you slowly become convinced you're dying). The Public Lounge has amazing leatherette reclining lounge chairs, I finally can sleep horizontally, Score! My first siting of the mysterious "Pacori Sweat" softdrink, sold in vending machine. Should you really name a drink with the word sweat?

* Northwest Airlines Part 2: Tokyo to Hong Kong. The staff change and become Asian, attractive, and friendly. A Huge thumbs up to the lovely older japanese lady that was serving our section. Beauty, grace, and all smiles despite her misfortunes with drinks and meals.

* Landing in Hong Kong, my exhausted and now even more than usually warped mind decided that all the look-alike apartment buildings look like grain silos...for people. Pods. How odd.

So after 24hrs of journeying and feeling at deaths door for part of it. I arrived safe and sound to be greeted by my friend Jenn. All smiles and energy as always. Quickly fell into our theme song for this journey "Jump In The Line (shake Senora)", and off we went. My first bowl off noodles and wontons, and a quick visit to Jenn's local, d'Apartment, followed by a nice walk with my guide pointing out architectural and historical, as well as mythical, wonders, we finally made it home for good. To Jenn & Christina's very own silo pod.

Aaaaah. Sleep.

New Year's Resolution... Learn More Mandarin!

2007-01-01T21:23:00.000-05:00

Wishing each and all a happy beginning to 2007.

Safe travel to all, be it around your own town or city, or abroad in lands faraway.

No matter where you find yourselves, remember that adventure and travel bliss surround us all. It’s all in perspective. And sometimes it’s as close as just around the corner.

Keep posted for new travel tips, and the joys, trials, and tribulations of planning for “China 2007”. The latest traveljulie adventure to hit the internet-waves.

Hui tou jian folks!

Singing the Back to Town Blues

2006-09-13T20:06:00.000-04:00

I don’t know what saddens me more (amongst other things).

Being back in the city? Or slowly washing the campfire smell out of the clothes that came along for the adventure?

I haven’t decided yet.

*** Photo found on www.phoric.org. Don’t know what his name is, but he’s the type of cute backcountry boy I’d love to cross paths with. As I keep saying, I am such a sucker for facial hair! haha

Grey Day

2006-08-20T17:00:00.000-04:00

I find it fascinating how a combination of tactile past memories, fast approaching future, and imagination can transport you.

This weekend has had intimate flashes of this No. 1 Special Combo.

Dry dusty heat, blinding sun, sweating from new pores, the familiar “face sweats”. I found myself walking along in a familiar “dead zone”, with highway looming in the sky, when suddenly through squinting eyes, I felt myself in Africa. Trudging along a busy road, dust hovering as I imagine it will be. Now this of course is imagination of future, as my memories are of roads in Cambodia and Laos, but tales from friends allow me to feel that this is what awaits me.

Today I am enveloped in grey and mist. I went for a walk and again my eyes softened their focus. The shade of the light, the brick buildings blurring into one color and ongoing dimension, I found myself in Britain. Wandering to parts of town that I used to loved exploring, allowing my feet to take me where they would.

Itchy feet? What is this unsettled feeling? Is it time to run away again?

No, it’s just a grey rainy day, and I sit in my Candyland kitchen allowing my thoughts to drift where they will. I softly smile at the past, cheekily grin at the future, and feel content with the present.

*** Photo found on www.pbase.com, in Werner Eickenscheidt's gallery .

Tuesday's Travel Tip : Tired? Yes... of waiting!

2006-08-15T08:03:00.000-04:00

Hmmmm. Well then, shall we just ignore the last tip?

Flying is fun. Waiting for hours in airports, wading in the negative energy of a million other people in a hurry is not.

So let’s make this week a short and simply one. Don’t bring liquids and gels. Keep your hand luggage to a minimum, but don’t forget to pack extra patience.

In the meantime click *here* for current updates on flying brought to us by Consular Affairs – Canada.

Tuesday's Travel Tip: Man! Your Arms Must Be Tired!

2006-07-25T08:05:00.000-04:00

I love flying. Always have, always will (even despite British Airways).

But as with anything, there are always tips to make life easier. Some flights are straight up then down…some will have you squirming to find that “comfy” position (Don’t be afraid of it. It might look ridiculous, but sometimes you have double digit hrs to kill).

Either way, here’s my little routine:

I request a window seat, because *my* comfy position requires one.

Take all the necessary in-flight *tools* out of my carry-on. (When you’re in a window seat, you don’t make friends by having to climb over people every 2 seconds for that “thing” you forgot in the overhead locker.) My carry-on then goes up and out of the way, and I’m left with the fun stuff. See tool-kit details below.

Take off my shoes (Trust me on this one)

Pop in a piece of gum to chew (Helps your ears pop with the change in pressure at take-off. Repeat at landing)

Check out the Airline In-Flight Magazine in the seat pouch in front of me to find out what the movie is going to be, and then decide whether I feel like the meatarian or vegetarian meal.

Sit back and enjoy.

My *tool-kit* always has the following:

book (novel and / or guidebook)
headphones (even if it doesn’t *fit* the plug, usually halfway in will get you both ears. Shhhh!)
MP3 player or Discman for the old-school like me (don’t forget your cd wallet)
eye drops
moisturizer (good for hands and face, and sometimes staticky hair)
bottle of water (flight attendants are busy people)
sweater
Chapstick
for longer trips : ear plugs and deodorant

For longer flights I also make sure I have the cute airline blanket and pillow, but if I’m feeling extra splurgy, I’ll have brought my inflatable neck pillow and a light sleeping pill (anti-nausea’s are a good choice for most people as they offer the double whammy of keeping your flight food down and knocking you out) (I’m kidding, I actually enjoy flight food. Sometimes it’s an adventure, and sometimes it’s actually really good).

Although I’m a hypocrite and actually NEVER do the stretching exercises that they show you in the video, I think they’re a really good idea. I myself rely on the fact that I have a 3 yr old girl’s bladder, and hence get lots of leg stretching via repeated trips to the bathroom, haha. (Hmmmm, maybe window seats Aren’t the best thing for me)

For a more clinical approach, Air Canada has quite a lengthy read on the subject.

Wikihow.com "Be-Comfortable-on-a-Long-Airplane-Trip", has some good tips, and some downright anal tips. I highly agree with the wax earplugs (God’s gift to light sleepers), and WetOnes for longer trips.

So go forth, fly high, and create your own checklist. And don’t forget to comment and tell us…what’s YOUR can’t-live-without-when-flying?

Tuesday's Travel Tip : I Paid to Work for Free?

2006-07-11T07:45:00.000-04:00

So if someone told you you’d have to PAY to work for someone, you’d probably think to yourself “What kind of sucker do you take me for?”

Oddly enough, people do it every day and have for years and years. Bonus part, they get to incorporate the feel-good into their vacation.

But…isn’t a vacation about NOT working?

Touché. But there are all the “feel-good” “goodie-two-shoes” reasons. “I want to help save the animals / people / archaeological ruins / etc etc.” Or…some people just think it’s a fantastic way to get to see the “real” of a new area.

(Anyone who reads my posts has probably figured out by now that I don’t normally tend to go for the traditional package tour. Snob me. I plan to face my snobbery full on and “suck it up” as soon as I…get around to it. Haha At least I can admit my shortcomings)

I am one of the latter type travellers. I want to meet locals. I want to get in there and experience. Now I realize full well that I’ll always be an outsider, but it’s my chance to at least get up and close to the boundary and peek in, versus sitting far away on a beach chair beckoning for an all-inclusive drink. (Hmmm, all-inclusive drinks don’t sound so bad actually…but I digress.)

So Volunteer Vacations become the ticket. There are SO many different organizations to choose from. It all depends on your country of origin, your budget, the number of days you can commit to, your interests, and how extreme you’re feeling. There’s no pressure, it’s a win-win chance to try something new and exciting, and come out with fantastic photos and memories, plus maybe some sore shoulders and an extended vocabulary… english or otherwise. Haha

To get you started I’d suggest having a look at the following organizations:

Habitat for Humanity has some very interesting programs at home and abroad, and has an excellent reputation. Their Global Village Program has upcoming programs to Romania, Hungary, and Kenya. I also found their Women Build Program quite an interesting venture, focusing on empowering women to get involved, but refusing to fall into a sexist trap by excluding men from the projects.

Earthwatch is another excellent organization, but focuses on more scientific endeavours. Zoological, anthropological, you want the “gical”, they’re almost guaranteed to have something that will strike your fancy. To celebrate their 35 years, they currently have a You might be an Earthwatch Volunteer IF list. Anyone who has not only volunteered abroad, but also enjoyed backcountry camping, will get a good chuckle. I mean *I* know what gaiters are…doesn’t everyone?

Finally, fellow Canadians may want to check out Developing World Connections, based right here at home in Kamloops, BC. They offer varied programs in several countries including Thailand and Sri Lanka.

Now these are 3 of the many opportunities out there. Maybe your interest is teaching abroad (hey, you might even get Paid for that!). I have always been interested in working on a kibbutz. In our amazing day and age, the possibilities truly are endless. You just need to think about where your heart is, and seek out how to make the dreams into reality. Just don’t forget those Advils and Myoflex if your dream involves building schools in rural communities.

Get out there, help, and enjoy!

The One Day of the Year I'd Really Like to be in Ottawa

2006-07-01T17:32:00.000-04:00

Happy Canada Day!

To all at home on our icy shores, and everyone displaced on shores abroad.

Happy Birthday true north strong and free!

Tuesday's Travel Tip - Click And now we see Martha...

2006-06-27T23:32:00.000-04:00

K. I survived the Fringe Festival, had a week’s rest (??? Rest is for the wicked!) and now I’m back at it. In fact I was taking my own advice before even writing about this week’s topic. Research… how cool is that! Haha

So this week’s tip is more of a DIY kind of thing. It’s simple. We all watch the travel shows, we all surf the net looking for info on places we want to go, or places we’ve never heard of. I propose something more intimate (no, not more sleeping with travellers, although you have to admit that was pretty cool!).

The return to the slideshow! Or perhaps an updated version thereof. Let me explain.

Somewhere, today, in your very own city, quite possibly, someone might be giving a talk about a trip they did. Showing some photos. Blah blah’ing about how cool they are, and how that lion/bear/kangaroo/whatever almost ate them. It’s usually free, or for a nominal charge. Most importantly, you are able to ask questions. Interact. Although, if you keep interrupting, and start getting the evil-eye from the presenter, then maybe rethink your people skills. Be courteous, someday the person up there could be you.

I attended a “conference voyage” this week hosted by the Boutique Tourisme Jeunesse (French site only). It “cost” me $5, for which I was given a $5 gift certificate for the store. The topic was on travelling to South East Asia. Now, this presentation was for novice travellers, giving tips and info on how to get your trip to Thailand and co. organized, and what to expect when you got there, but it was still really interesting. Especially interesting was how everyone’s perception is different. For example, we have our beloved cities, and those towns that just didn’t like us. (I’d still pick Ho Chi Minh over Hanoi any day! Haha But I encourage anyone who’s been to Vietnam to comment).

So here’s how this becomes DIY. You need to go out and FIND this event. Good places to start are travel agencies, youth hostels (there’s at LEAST one in your city, Hostelling International is a good start), local and community newspapers, your city’s main webpage, and the list goes on and on.

Seek and ye shall find!

Tuesday's Travel Tip : .......

2006-06-13T00:13:00.000-04:00

Tuesday's Travel Tip is cancelled this week so that we may bring you this Public Service Announcement...

FRINGE!!!! YA BABY YAAAA! WOOOOOOOOO!!!!

Sorry, couldn't help it! haha

Yes, the St Ambroise Montreal Fringe Theatre Festival IS OOOON! Running now, until, and including June 18th! Be sure to check out shows! There is a little something for everyone! Dancing Japanese Performance Art, Dancing Fatties, Dancing Fairytales....and a whole bunch of shows...without..dancing.

If you're into it, this festival has probably got it! And at a max ticket price of $9.00 per show (+ service charges), this makes for some affordable fun.

So come see us at the main outdoor site situated at the corner of St Laurent and Rachel. Come say g'day to yours truly at the box office daily 8-11pm. Come check out more live bands at the Academy Club, and stick around for the nightly talk-show, The 13th Hour! And get ready for Fringe's Sweet 16 PROM this Friday nite!!!! Relive the horror of being 17 ALL OVER AGAIN! (Was it JUST me who had a bad prom??)

Last but not least, it's never too late to get involved. Wanna see free shows??? FREE stuff is coooool! Contact Patrick at benevol@montrealfringe.ca.

Let's get this summer started. For all things Fringe, check out the website , for list of events, where everything is, schedule, what's hot and what's not!

Tuesday’s Travel Tip : Sleep With The Locals

2006-06-06T08:05:00.000-04:00

Now what are the best times you’ve had travelling?

Ask most people, and they’ll say something along the lines of “That time… we met these locals… who took us around! It was SO much FUN! Highlight of our trip!”

Let’s face it. People that live in a city (or town, or village, or wherever) who aren’t afraid to talk to strangers are usually fun, extroverted type-A people. And they’re the most fun people around!

So why not stay with them? That’s right! I said, stay with them.

I have always been a big fan of save a dollar when travelling. And getting to see the insides of a city versus the touristy glitter and glue exterior is a major plus. Yes I want to see the tacky tourist “I have to tick this off my list and take a photo of me in front of it” stuff. But I also want the behind the curtains. The best place to eat the local specialty. The best beer in town. What do the locals do for fun? Let’s get involved. You may stick out like a sore thumb (picture being the only white girl at an all-Fijian concert/dance party, and you’re on the right track), but who cares. You’ll have an amazing story, and so will a whole bunch of other people once you’re gone! haha

So how do you get involved? Well, that’s easier than ever, thanks to this golden age of internet.

Thru sites like couchsurfing.com you have access to other likeminded travellers, willing to offer that spare bit of space and time to save you money and make your journey even more memorable. And wouldn’t you know it, Montreal is currently the number one Couch Surfing City on their site. I live in a bohemian city, gotta love it! Thousands of people are signing up weekly. With a strong network of like-minded backpackers, it’s bound to be a success.

So start surfing! Check out the site and see how you can get involved, whether you’re going or staying! Sleep with the locals?…well, that’s your choice. How about a cup of coffee and some story swapping to start!

Disclaimer: Come on, these days everyone needs a disclaimer! Just the way it goes. And so this is mine. Traveljulie.com supports free enterprise and free places to sleep. But nothing in life is guaranteed, so trust your gut instincts! If you don’t feel 100% about a place…don’t stay there. Be true to yourself, be safe, have fun!

Tour de France? Let’s start with an Island

2006-06-05T19:36:00.000-04:00

J: How’s your ass Gen?
G: Ouch! And you?
J: Well, the pain in my knee is overshadowing the pain I feel in my ass, so it’s ok.

One pulled ligament later, I find myself pedalling home with my left leg. Just… my left leg. No prob! It’s only..oh, 14 kms. Aw, damn!

And so Genevieve and I completed the Tour de L’Isle, yesterday, June 4th. A 48km fun in the sun bicycle excursion here in Montreal. Basically, you pay $27 to ride amongst a gazillion other cyclists. Get told repeatedly to go left and watch out for sharp bends (La courbe La courbe? Qui? Quoi?), dodge volunteers and pylons, and pedal furiously to get to the next stop.

Stop 1: Apple Wedges and caramel dip. Plus a draw to win a bicycle! (A better one than the one you’re obviously on!)
Stop 2: A thousand mile line-up for 3 pieces of cheese and a bottle of chocolate milk. (‘Cause heavy dairy products are a great idea when cycling)
Stop 3: Dial! Yup, body and laundry soap. (Are they trying to tell us something?)

I’m glad I experienced this event, but will I do it next year? Well…only with more prior training, and if I’m part of a group wearing silly things attached to their bike helmets.

Kudos to the cool street of families that were playing upbeat dance tunes from their porches and getting everyone involved from kids with pots and pans to grandma waving from her lawn-chair. That, to me, was the most memorable part of the day. Thank you!

There’s lots happening in your own city. It’s summer (or winter), so get out and get involved! You don’t have to be a nut who cycles 76 kms for…fun? Just get out and have fun!

Tuesday's Travel Tip - Doco-Loco

2006-05-30T22:16:00.000-04:00

So you’ve made it! You’re standing in a land far away. You stick out like a sore thumb, and you can’t understand any of the locals. Then the worse thing imaginable happens.

You lose your passport! And/or traveller’s cheques. And/or ALL your money, be it cash, debit card, or credit card! All of it!

Ach!

But luckily, you were smart enough to pack photocopies. (You know! In that deep dark corner of your backpack. The one with the other odd items that are very Very important, but if all goes as planned you’ll Never need!)

My suggestion this week, is of course to carry the usual photocopy of all your important cards and documents. The standard is 2 copies in different spots, but I’ve got a better idea.

For the truly neurotic, I mean well prepared, I would also suggest a paper-free option. Scan the photocopies, and send them to yourself in an email. That way you can access them and print them if the truly horrible happen and you lose the backpack as well (this is called the worse case scenario! haha).

Lastly, consider leaving a copy with someone who could fax them to you. Although perhaps not your mom, unless you like the idea of her imagining you being pick-pocketed or mugged! No offense to the mom’s of the world, you know we love you, and Yes we Will send postcards…maybe!

Now I hope you didn’t forget to include that list of traveller’s cheques numbers in that email!

Travel Safe, Travel Smart!

All For Fringe and Fringe For All

2006-05-28T22:28:00.000-04:00

Well it’s that time again folks! Festival time in Mon-tre-aaaal! And what better way to start it off than with my favourite festival of all. The Fringe Festival.

10 Days of Fringe Theatre. Artists from near and far. A little sum’n sum’n for everyone! The outdoor venue complete with beer tent, and live music. A great place to catch the vibe, and get info on what shows are HOT!

Love theatre? Wanna meet others who do? Wanna see free shows? Then why not become a volunteer! Easy-peasy. You just need to contact Patrick, volunteer coordinator extraordinaire! (benevol@montrealfringe.ca)

Picky about your bedfellows? Well, why not sleep with Fringe Artists?... You’ve all got dirty minds! Good on ya! But seriously, if you’ve got a spare bed or couch, please contact Angela (fringe@montrealfringe.ca). Think of it as contributing to travel AND the arts! A two-for-one special if you will!

If you want to catch a sneak-peak at what’s in store for this year’s festival, be sure to check out FRINGE FOR ALL, happening tomorrow night (May 29th) at Café Campus, @ 8pm! It’s free! It’s fun! And it’s completely unpredictable! See ya there! I’ll be one of the girls handing out programs, or posters, or…something?

Want more? Then be sure to check out the Montreal Fringe Super-Blog on MySpace ! And be sure to check out the festival running
June 8 - 18!

Sleep now folks. Next scheduled rest-period is October!

Tuesday's Travel Tip - Fei-What? Ooooh... Vodka!

2006-05-23T08:03:00.000-04:00

Ok. This isn’t a gadget. And I’m not even sure if this technically qualifies as a travel tip. But it falls into the realm of “close to my heart these days”. So here goes.

I’m a glutton. And one of the joys of travelling is drinking in the culture, and this is a case in point!

Vodka. Yes folks, my dear friend vodka! But wait! It gets better!

I’d like to take this opportunity to promote the yummiest flavoured vodka treat to hit shelves near you. And if it hasn’t yet! Lobby! Haha

42 Below is New Zealand’s finest, sure to tickle the taste-buds of those lucky enough to hop on this gilded bandwagon. All are taste sensations well known to kiwi folks, but to those otherwise uninitiated, the best is Feijoa. (Click and see! Yum!) Others include Manuka Honey, Passionfruit, and Kiwi (of course!).

Feijoa vodka. Best served straight out of the freezer over ice, or topped off with some sparkling lemonade (Sprite), for the less hardcore. Haha

Sometimes you don’t have to leave home to enjoy travelling. This is one of the times when the wonderful can come straight to your table.

Enjoy folks! And don’t even get me started on New Zealand wines! ;)

Tuesday's Travel Tip : I am SO flu-ent-ly BI-Lingu-elle!

2006-05-16T08:07:00.000-04:00

I am a true advocate for "learn a bit before you go".
And this is no exception.

To get by you need 2 words. Hello, and Thank You. That’s enough to get a charade conversation going no matter what country you’re in.

But for those of you that need more, good news! A chance to learn your next destination’s language and maybe make some friends along the way. Oh, and a chance to not only take, but give as well. Win-win if you ask me.

I’m talking about language exchange. Learn a new language, and help teach yours. And here are a few sites to get you going.

My favourite being the first I came across, My Language Exchange. Founded right here in Montreal, some of you might say I’m biased and of course I am. But it just feels right. Another option would be Friends Abroad.

So Hello, Bonjour, Hola, Ciao, Sawatdi Ka (cause I’m a girl), G’Day, Guten Tag, and on and on, so go out and find your own hello. And take it from there!

Tuesday's Travel Tip - Stab, Jab & Swallow

2006-05-09T23:38:00.000-04:00

Shock! It’s not a gadget this week. But come oooonnnnnn, stuff is cooool!

Fine then! Be that way!

No, on a more serious note, this week’s post is on pre-travel vaccinations! I know. Let the good times roll. Not. But depending on where you’re travelling, this is very important.

Different countries have different recommended vaccinations. Most have to be administered weeks prior to travelling to your destination.

Would you risk malaria? I wouldn’t. And that’s one of the nicer illnesses you could get. Luckily, I’m not squeamish, but there are diseases out there that’ll make your toes curl just thinking about them.

Not to mention that different solutions may not be suitable for each individual. For example. Mefloquine (aka Lariam) which is used to prevent malaria has side-effects including psychosis. I myself am already crazy enough without such extra stimulants, so I’ll pass, thanks!

Also to note, not all drugs are effective for the specific area you may be visiting. For example, mosquitoes around the world are becoming immune to certain types of medications. Hmmm, doctors outsmarted by bugs?

But there are two great sites, used by the professionals themselves that have easy access to all this information: CDC - Center for Disease Control and Prevention & WHO - World Health Organization. (CDC being the better site. Information is SO much easier to find) Just plug in the country you’ll be visiting next and find out what you need to be stabbed for, or what you need to swallow.

So add this to your steps of being an informed, prepared traveller. Adding to your peace of mind is worth it so you can get on with more important things like the adventure.

Super Sophia Runs for a Cure

2006-05-03T07:25:00.000-04:00

I first met Sophia in New Zealand. A fellow crazy Canuck, she was out conquering the wilds of West Coast, Sth Island, KiwiLand. I was lucky again to cross paths with this crazy girl again in Krabi, Thailand (Tonsai IS climbing heaven!)

This amazing woman has more energy than anyone I have ever met (and I have met some energetic people!). So when I read that she was going to be running in the Vancouver Marathon with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, it seemed perfectly natural to me.

UNTIL, I read the part about her running 42.6 kms. Then she just seemed crazy! All over again! Haha. Or, maybe she’s just doing 21.1? Either way, it’s a heck of a lot more than most of us would even consider considering.

This is all happening THIS Sunday, May 7th. So before then, please check out Sophia's Fundraising Page, and if you can, please help her reach her goal of raising $2,000 for this worthy cause.

Traveljulie is helping her reach that goal as a bronze member, and encourages anyone who can, to help out. (Hey! Funding has been cut with our loss of Google advertising, but we’re still there to support great causes….and Google…we need to talk !)

Good luck Sophia! Maybe you’ll actually tire yourself out for once! haha

Me, Jo, and Sophia on the beach in West Raleigh, after a morning of climbing.

Tuesday's Travel Tip: Never Eat Shredded Wheat

2006-05-02T22:10:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's true, the gear geek in me strikes again! But I can't help it. I LOVE all travel gadgets. But most of all, it's another little thing. Small, compact, light. And handy!

So you find yourself in a random city. You might not speak the language. You might not even be able to read signs.

You have your map (or guidebook). You have finally been able to decipher which street you're on...and now...which street CORNER! Success!

But...

Which direction are you facing? Are you really facing the way your trusty pop-up map thinks you are? What hemisphere am I in again?

Ah damn!

So it comes in handy, the tiny little toy compass that is attached to you somewhere. You can get them in all shapes and sizes these days. I originally had the standard keychain compass pictured in my head. But who carries that many keys in their backpack? No, so far the best 2 ideas I've seen are the zipper pull compass, and the compass on carabiner (for climbing geek wannabe's like me!). Clip on and go!

You'll be heading towards that museum, gallery, bus station, pub, etc etc, in No Time!

And at only $2.00 - $5.00 a pop, it's easy on the delicate budget.

Happy travelling folks!

Anyone Got a Tip For Me?

2006-04-25T22:25:00.000-04:00

Sorry folks, I had some serious foot in mouth syndrome to tackle. Bigger prose that has eaten up all my energy, but was necessary beyond the words I haven't written here.

I've hurt someone important to me.

It's not easier, no matter what side of the fence you find yourself on.

For the recently seperated, might I suggest some fine Canadian chords, "Left and Leaving" by the Weakerthans.

"I'm back with scars to show. Back with the streets I know. That'll never take me anywhere but here."

Tuesday's Travel Tip: Ya Gotta Earn It!

2006-04-18T07:20:00.000-04:00

For those of you like me, the thought of spending a day or two in
a city doesn’t really equate to having “been there, done that”. Guess I’m just a slow learner, but I really like having the time to get to know a place. Be it town… or country.

So most of you have probably heard of Working Holiday Visa’s. For those not familiar, well let me introduce you to a GREAT way to travel!

Most countries have agreements with other countries that allow our fabulous glorious youth to have temporary work visas. Usually for those aged between 18 – 30, and only available once per lifetime. But hey, it’s allowed me to work in 4 countries! This gives you time to get to know a place. Immerse yourself in the local culture. And probably work at jobs you would NEVER do back home! Haha

(So far I have moonlighted as: barmaid (obvious!), government employee, terrible waitress, live-in “student assistant” helping take care of teenagers at a high-school boarding house (I know!), customer service rep for a pharmaceutical company, and apple picker/packer!. It was also the humble beginnings of my long career as a professional..temp!)

Point is that it’s a great way to stay longer if you have the time. These visas are not intended to be career moves. There are working visas more specifically for that. But, this is a great way to tide you over cash-wise so you can keep travelling.

A few interesting sites with some great info are as follows:

For information no matter what country you come from I’d recommend AnyWorkAnywhere (this site also has links to BUNAC and SWAP, which are the programs I went thru for my first visa abroad to the UK, back when I was a student)

Aussies can check out this site dedicated to them : Working Holiday Guru

Younger Canucks looking to temporarily escape the iceberg, check out the following government information on International Youth Programs

And finally, for us over 30’s (I only have one week left! before I join you all!), I found an interesting government site for those looking to work and live abroad on a more permanent career-oriented level at Consular Affairs.

It’s true what they say. Hard work really will get you everywhere. And add to some GREAT travel stories! Get out there and enjoy folks!

Tuesday's Travel Tip : Safety CAN Be Fun! And Stylish!

2006-04-11T07:20:00.000-04:00

Retractable Cable Locks. Yes folks. You heard me right. This week’s tip is about keeping your stuff safe while on the road. The "Retractasafe 100" by Pacsafe to be precise! Well, the gear geek side of me is finally making an appearance. I wondered how long it would take! haha

So anyways, this little gizmo is light, yet tuff, and the extendable cable makes it super handy for so many situations. And it comes in a choice of colours. Ooooh!

You can lock your backpack to things. Secure storage lockers. In Asia they’re very handy for added security on your guesthouse room, or bungalow, for when you go out. Let’s just say it’s an added deterrent to go along with the padlock that your accommodation has provided you with, to which they also have a key.

Use your imagination! Go wild! Haha

Mine’s blue, and I don’t think I’ll ever travel without it again. The joy of being able to choose your own combination. And no key to lose! Bonus!

Remember: If someone’s desperate for your things. Chances are pretty high they’ll get it. This is just another hassle to throw lazy thieves off. Make ‘em work for your hard earned money!

This was first introduced to me by my lovely ex Roger before we travelled to Sth East Asia. Thnx for being the inspiration for this week’s tip Rog!

Travel safe folks! Enjoy!

Montreal Concerts: Dear Beth...

2006-04-10T00:16:00.000-04:00

Dear Beth,

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for playing to such a rude and undeserving crowd as were we this past Friday, in Montreal.

Your talented musicianship and gentle humour were appreciated by those of us amongst the crowd who weren’t busy, let’s see….talking the entire time, or yelling “Leroy!” at the top of our lungs. (Seems you can leave England, but the lager lads will always follow. Shame.)

And TWO encores! After our abysmal behaviour? Your must have had that preplanned, otherwise if it had been me, I would have said “piss off” with ZERO encores, and stricken our otherwise fair city off any future tour schedules. But again I thank you for your kindness. Stolen Car is what made me discover you. She Cries Your Name is always a must, it is so beautiful.

Montreal! What was up? Since when do we buy tickets to talk thru entire concerts?

For the rest of us fans. This was my first Beth Concert, and hopefully won’t be my last. But maybe I’ll go to another city next time. Would Toronto have better manners? Ouch!

Another good site to check out, with free listens is http://bethorton.astralwerks.com/ . You can even download the new video for “Conceived”.

Enjoy folks! And if you get the chance to check out this talented lady, please do. And if you plan on yelling “Leroy” the entire time. Please stay home!

Happy Birthday CruiseJournals!

2006-04-05T23:32:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday tooo yoooouu!
Happy Birthday deeaarrr CruiseJournals!
Haaapppyyy Biiirrtthhdaaayyy
toooooo yooooooooou!

CruiseJournals is officially 1 yr old today! Already over 2,000 members, and 200,000 unique visits (now that's a whole bunch of computers out there), it is growing strong and steady each and every day!

Haven't checked it out yet? Re-read my post below from March 16th, then get to it! haha

I only takes a minute to sign up. It's FREE! And there is tons of cool info, and everyone is friendly.

So. WHAT were you waiting for? Go say happy birthday for yourselves!

Tuesday's Travel Tip : "What's Goin' ON!"

2006-04-04T20:45:00.000-04:00

I was a bit daunted at first, as the site's been changed and isn't quite as "first glance cool" as it used to be. But after spending a few minutes looking around I remembered why I used to have to drag myself away!

This is SO fun! What's On When is a great site, that lists festivals and events around the globe. Be forewarned...it's addictive! MY personal favorite section is called Bizarre! And oh my! But it is!

Within minutes I was daydreaming that I was attending the International Kite Festival in France starting this weekend. Then I read about the Bun Festival in Hong Kong (So Jenn, will you be our onsite reporter, check it out, and let our fine readers know how it went? Say you will!)

But my new favorite is Mike The Headless Chicken Days in Memphis, happening May 18 thru 20th. Cause I know *I've* felt a bit headless this last little while.

When planning your next trip be sure to go have a search. You just never know WHAT'LL be on in the neck of the woods you'll be hanging out in! In the meantime, go wander thru the site. You're sure to find something you NEVER thought would be glorified by a town, somewhere near you!

Travelling Tip of the Day : Domestic Flights

2006-03-28T23:08:00.000-05:00

Another web-inspired tip for today's net junkies. Although this applies more to the Canadian folks here at home, it may be useful to anyone coming to our icy shores (although I must say, they are thawing quite nicely! aaah)

Trying to plan flights across this great and native land of ours? Redtag is an excellent time-saver. With one search you can quickly assess our TWO current airline options: Air Canada and WestJet. (OK there ARE others, but these are the major carriers) (Ooops, I almost forgot. Canjet is another good option but more limited in city combos).

I used to use this site all the time when planning itineraries for coworkers coming to Montreal for meetings (aaaaah, back in my shortlived travel consultant glory days, haha). It's a great bird's eye view of who's flying cheapest...and quickest! (I mean *I* want to do 4 stops to get to Calgary, but does everyone?? NOT!)

So check it out folks! It's spring. Travel's cheap. Get out there and enjoy!

Travelling Tip of the Day : Internet Browsing Abroad

2006-03-21T07:28:00.000-05:00

It's a fact. Internet Explorer (still my browser of choice) is not always the best.

Should you find yourself sitting in an internet cafe in Vietnam for example, your Hotmail account is gonna give you grief if used with Explorer. I'm not a tech. I don't know why. I just know that I wasted alot of dong (local currency) waiting for my Hotmail to crash on me. Fun!

But there's hope! An exciting other option is available. Mozilla's Firefox is catching on, and is an excellent browser (I have friends that use it solely). This worked extremely well with my own hotmail account, and saved me heaps of time and money trying to keep in touch with friends and family while on the road.

So keep your eyes peeled for that groovy logo, and be sure and try it out. Save that dong for a glass of Bia Hoi down the road! ;)

And that folks...is your tip of the day!
Happy travelling!

Great Big Sea Live in Montreal

2006-03-19T00:27:00.000-05:00

I love this city. I Love this band. And from the gushing, they seem to be pretty fond of us too. And why not! We danced, we clapped, we sang along. We were a wonderful audience, worthy of our 2 encores!

And what a show! I sang my little lungs out to old favorites, and the "livingroom" accoustic version of "Sea of No Cares" was simply amazing. Ya ya ya, they sing super fast for Mary Mac, but this was an unexpected treat that I thank them for.

And having the day off tomorrow they are surely out at their hangout now (and my old stomping ground) Hurley's. Cause we DO wish the show would never end, and for these amazing guys it doesn't.

Great Big Sea folks! For a fantastic show be sure to check 'em out!

This Cruise Virgin Supports Cruisejournals!

2006-03-16T07:35:00.000-05:00

In all my travels I have yet to try a cruise. I've been on tons of ferries, enjoyed the odd 'harbour cruise' in university, and tried river cruises, but not once have I sailed away on an adventure. Oh wait a minute, I DID sail for 4 days in the Whitsundays....wait a minute...No, not the same thing. Oh well, I tried. haha

Cruisejournals describes itself as a free, friendly community-site for the cruise-travel lifestyle.

It has tons of information for the "in-the-knows" as well as the "newbies" like myself. You can sail thru the different sections taking in photographs, videos, even podcasts. The forums sections is a great way to learn about cruising, along with tons of other useful travel info. For example, there's section on photography tips and games!

Here's a sneak peak at what you can expect to find...

Life on the high seas!

Destinations off and on-board.

New friends!

So don't take my word for. Almost 2,000 others to date agree.
Happy navigating friends!

Then He Sailed Off Into The Sunrise

2006-03-02T23:27:00.000-05:00

Well folks. After 7 wks of cohabitation, I am proud to say, I still have a boyfriend, haha. Unfortunately, he's also off sailing around the world...well, sort of. Let me explain.

Jeff works as Broadcast Manager aboard a ship called The World, managed by Residensea. It is referred to as a "floating resort community". A community of billionaires, with the odd millionaire thrown in for good measure. But should you have some spare pocket change floating around, you too can rent an ocean residence, starting at $1200US per night for 2. Bargain! The ship is pure luxury. Everything you could ever want aboard a cruise ship, but minus the 1000's of people scrambling to get a deckchair next to the pool., and the fact that no one EVER calls it a cruise ship.

Luxurious restaurants, spa, and cinema/lecture hall, are merely a few of the features you'll find onboard. This amazing ship has been known to take passengers out into unchartered fjords in Norway to have champagne on iceberg ice! The kind of living most of us only dream of.

But it's not often like that. And, don't be fooled by the grand piano in the lobby. This is what I like to think of as a floating apartment complex. People live on this ship. They watch tv in their living rooms, and cook in their kitchens (unless they feel like having an expert chef come and cook for them). They're at home, and stay in their apartments. Just like you and I...only difference, is that their apartment floats and is supposed to, while for you and I that would mean an insurance claim, and a headache.

So he's left me to finish off winter here in Montreal, while he is on his way to Hawaii, then Asia. 4 months isn't that long. And if in the meantime I don't meet a tree-hugging climbing god at the gym, and he isn't seduced by a mermaid or worse...an all-leg Scandinavian goddess coworker...well then, we'll be doing just fine, and it will be smooth sailing for us.

For more information, check out their website on The World of Residensea

And then on a winter’s day…I froze!

2006-02-06T15:41:00.000-05:00

Why oh why! The fates point a camera in my face, and ask me “Do you have faith in Stephen Harper as prime minister?”

And I freeze! I mutter moronic ramblings as my brain shuts down. And twice stare straight into the camera. But I’m not saying anything interesting! Ach! I should legally change my name to “Bambi’s Mother”. I’m going to have nightmares about this for Weeks!

My chance to reach the masses in one fell swoop! Express my disgust and outrage that we have elected a bigot with no respect for our environment, yet who possesses a huge blush & crush on George W. And did I mention my chance to promote my website (ok, I understand that that is purely self-centred, but it’s still an opportunity not so much missed as bazooka’d)!

The horror! But at least I resisted the urge to run back after them, and try again. That would have been glutton for punishment as an extreme sport!

Guess I’ll stick to print to express my views, and go with my gut instinct next time that is screaming “No Comment!”

Travel and Politics?…Go Hand In Hand!

2006-01-24T17:08:00.000-05:00

Oh my! Is anyone else as worried about the state of political affairs in this fine country of ours as I am? I sure do hope so.

So at first glance, travel and politics…huh? Backpackers aren’t thinking about that too much!…Well, they should be!

Let’s face it! Our leaders have always been interesting characters. (Well, for the most part, anyways). Take Trudeau and Chretien as classic examples. The ALWAYS spoke their mind, and despite being somewhat goofy at times, they at least had personality. They weren’t afraid to speak their minds. And they were CANADIAN! They believed in Canada. They believed that Canada was something more than America’s little (bigger) cousin. USA’s neighbour desperate to hang out ‘cause they have flashier toys than us! Harper is practically a drooling lapdog, making lovey-dovey eyes at Bush and begging.

We are different! On est different! What language do I have to say it in!?

Think about it. Every American traveller gets asked, “So. What do YOU think about Bush?” We may not necessarily be asked about our leader specifically, but I have to admit I was proud as hell to be able to say that MY leader wasn’t snivelling and hanging on to America’s coattails going to war! No way! Canadians don’t want war! None that I have met recently. And that is just one (if not prime) example of the many times I’ve been proud of our leaders when travelling abroad.

Cause let’s face it. I’m egotistical! I’d rather have every other nation telling me how lucky I am, than saying we’re just like everyone else. We’re not. We’re Canadian. We are as goofy as our leaders, and our morals are still high. I refuse to believe otherwise, despite the election results.

I can only hope that my next trip abroad I can square my shoulders, and proudly state “Yup! That’s right! That’s MY government!” instead of mumbling subordinately that we followed the herd.

So why have we chosen to go hand in hand with the evil Frankenbots? (Has no one else noticed Stephen Harper’s eerie resemblance to Mary Shelley’s monster? But I digress.) I simply cannot understand it. So for the moment it looks like my hand will go firmly into my pocket, and I will practice my mumbling (not that I’m so good at keeping quiet!)

NY - So much fun I forgot my pants!

2005-11-17T17:42:00.000-05:00

I’ll never forget the day. It was September, I was 18yrs old, and I had just started University a few wks back. My dad was coming through Halifax, and so was taking his only daughter out to lunch. He had just returned from a business trip to New York.

His first words to me were not “So, how’s it going?” “How’s your roommate?” nor was it “Studying hard?”. No. His words were “Buy a ticket and go girl. You’re gonna love it!” My response of course was “You’re buying!”, um no.

So 12 yrs later. I finally got around to buying that ticket. And I did. I loved it.

It started with an almost 8hr overnite bus ride, accompanied by one of my best friends, Mark. I had always said that the first time I went to NY, I would want to go with Mark acting as my Discover NY Guide. Well worth the wait.

I was lucky enough to have a place to stay as well. Docked down in what used to be Hell’s Kitchen. A luxury floating apartment block. A ship called The World. Owned by billionaires, and the odd millionaire. I was down below in the servants quarters bunking with the Broadcast Manager, named Jeff. What do I have to broadcast about this? All is well, readers, all is well. If my neuroses don’t get the better of me, he may be featured in many repeat mass mails and blog postings. Wish me luck fans!

But what did we see and do? Well, just this (In NO particular order):

Front Row for RENT, my fave musical. A dream that I’ve had for years, and it’s finally come true! M & I lined up for the lottery ticket draw 4 times. 4th time lucky because I was late, and only Mark put his name in. Hmmm. Guess lottery just isn’t my thing. Haha

FAO Scwarz a cool toy store. I got to dance on the big floor keyboard a-la Tom Hanks in BIG. Alas, I couldn’t remember how to play chopsticks, and the 3 yr olds there thought I was strange. Such is life.
Grits at the Galaxy café. Wait a minute, this is just cream of wheat!

Getting lost in lower Harlem. “Are those the Projects? Cooool.”

Walking thru Central Park…not at nite.

Vietnamese restaurant in Chinatown, yum!

The ceiling at Grand Central Station. Another good reason to always look Up

Time Square. How many small countries could we feed with the money spent on electricity?

Attending an off-broadway musical called SLUT! ‘Nuff said.

Jeff and I got to ride in a limousine courtesy of his work, complete with Russian Brooklyn driver.

Hanging out in a cool café in Greenwich

Wandering Soho and Noho, wannabe window shopping.

Macy’s, riding the wooden escalators. Strange that it looked exactly like the Bay on St Catherine’s in Montreal.

Wandering the East Village, visiting the sites of RENT, and eating at the Life Café!!!!

Free-ish stand-up Comedy. Hey! We had time to kill, and why not!

Taking photos at Rockefeller Centre. Apparently it’s ok to get down on your knees, ass in the air with your cheek against the pavement to set up your shot, but heaven forbid if you try and sit on the ground

Halloween Parade, standing on the back of a public bench, watching the world go by

Musical performances by Bill Laswell (featuring NY’s hottest drummer), and Medeski Martin & Wood rockin the stage with crazy performance artists being lowered from the ceiling.

Groovy Brit pub wannabe in Hell’s Kitchen, with soft lighting and a sweeeeet jukebox. Complete with wonderful company.

Empire State Building. Being tourists and going for the view.

Hot Dogs and mango drink at Papaya. Love those dogs! And street vendor pretzels.

Ending up in Queens on a wrong subway at ungodly hours of the morning. Counting rats ON the platform, and trying to figure out what the huge blobs that looked like cow s*** were on the tracks

Was that everything? Mark and I walked so much that Mark’s feet were each one large blister, and my legs felt like jello. Jeff offered little sympathy, spending most of his time onboard working. But we managed to kidnap him for a few outings, so all was not lost.

I left the museums and galleries for next time. But I know where they are, and I will be back.

Oh yes. I almost forgot. I was changing to have a comfy outfit for the long bus ride home. And I forgot my jeans on the ship. They have since been posted, and should arrive in Montreal anytime soon. All thanks to Jeff . So you see? It wasn’t just a gimmick!