Envying JacksGap's Rickshaw Run

Hey Travelers,

Happy Sunday! Today I come to you dreaming of a trip to South Asia. Most specifically, I have recently been investigating a trip to India, as I've been dying to experience its diverse culture and breath-taking land.

I spent some time checking out a few fun travel vlogs brought to you by a YouTube channel known as Jack'sGap. Notoriously known for their incredible travel profile and explorative personalities, the boys of Jack'sGap have made a name for themselves by sharing their worldly experiences with the public.

I recently stumbled upon their videos they posted after completing the Rickshaw Run. The Rickshaw Run is a cross-country fundraising event that takes place in India, where participants travel across the country in small rickshaws to raise money for a charity of their choice.

Take a look at that video and see why my India-envy stretches so far. Their experience was sure to be one that was not only memorable but wildly sharable with their massive public audience, myself included. I absolutely envy this group of guys and would do just about anything to travel alongside them.

So here's to hoping that one day, I get to do one of these myself.

Cheers!

Your Budapest Bucket List

Hi Travelers,

While we might hate them, bucket lists can quickly become stable "sources of truth" that allow you to imagine beyond your means and explore new opportunities. Today's bucket list is focused specifically on Budapest, a city that has been on my personal bucket list to visit for a while. Budapest, Hungary boasts a culture rich in history and striking architecture. It is notably one of the cheapest spots in Europe and provides access to a lot of free sight-seeing. Not to mention, this city is known as a food capital of the world, equipped heavily with local farmers markets.

While I have not yet had the chance to get there, I have done some research and shared some of the evident "can't miss" spots based on the city's unique culture and traditions. The photos arguably don't even do it justice, so I guess I'll just have to go and visit soon myself to take some photos of my own.

• Szechenyi Thermal Bath: The thermal baths in Budapest are some of the world's most famous, with pools ranging from 65-104 degrees Fahrenheit. The pools are essentially large medicinal baths that are said to treat joint diseases and serve as orthopedic post-treatments. Not to mention, the thermal baths are truly magnificent and calming, making them another great one for the bucket list today. 

• Buda Castle: The Buda Castle is home to the Royal Palace, History Museum, and the National Gallery. The Castle was originally completed in 1265 and was then inhabited by Hungarian Kings. This is an iconic building that was declared a World Heritage Site in 1987, making it a key spot for this list!

• Shoes on the Danube Bank: This experience is a memorial to honor those who were killed during World War II. Sixty (60) pairs of shoes line the edge of the Bank in memoriam of the historic sacrifice made by militia men who were forced to take off their shoes only to be shot at the edge of the water. This museum is promised to be an incredibly impactful experience and a must-visit historical spot in Budapest. 

I certainly can promise that the moment I visit I will be sure to share updates on my adventures and many, MANY photos. For now, I'll just keep on dreaming of the wonders that surround my Budapest-Bucket-List. 

Cheers!

Beach Season: In Full Bloom

Hi Travelers,

I can officially say happy summer... so, happy summer! As we move ahead spending the next few months ideally catching some rays and enjoying the warmth, I wanted to dedicate a post to some research on the world's best beaches.

I've done some digging and have compiled a list of five beaches that are known worldwide for their strikingly turquoise water and pink sands. As an avid fan of the beach, I made sure this list was well thought out to ensure my travelers are getting their daily dose of sun and sand too :).

1. Blue Beach, Vieques, Puerto Rico: This beach is known for its long, thin stretch of white sand and clear blue water. As one of the Caribbean's top beaches, Blue Beach boasts access to incredible snorkeling and views. But you won't get there without 21 tiny turn-offs along a bumpy, unpaved road through a former U.S. Navy training base!
2. Banana Beach, Phuket, Thailand: Banana Beach is infamous for its impossibly-green jungle and marine preservation area. Banana boat rides are quite popular, hence the name, and the quiet spots give way for some real "you time." 
3. Psarou Beach, Mykonos Greece: Psarou Beach is home to your jam-packed day in the sun. Equipped with five-star restaurants and a plethora of watersport activities, you are sure to get your day's worth out of this one. Not to mention, the water is absolutely gorgeous... I probably spent at least half of my time writing this post also envying the photos. 
4. English Harbour Beach, Antigua: This beach has been named a UNESCO World Heritage site, backed by historical landscapes and calm waters. Also known as Galleon Beach, this beach overlooks Captain Horatio Nelson's warehouse in English Harbour. 
5. Reethi Rah, North Male Atoll, Maldives: While it might seem nearly impossible to pick a favorite, this beach is a Maldives staple. Intense limestone formations surround some of the most strikingly white sand you'll like ever see. 

So in the true spirit of summer, take a couple of days to explore these true wonders. And report back for the rest of us!

Happy Traveling, 

Annika

To Travel Independently... Or Not Independently...

Hello Travelers,

I hope this blog post finds you well amidst your travels around the world! Wanted to touch on a topic I believe is often not largely considered but often debated: to travel alone, or not travel alone.

Personally, I am a huge fan of traveling independently. My favorite trip to date was one I took in early March, where I flew spontaneously to London for four days by myself, walking over 60 miles in my time there. I spent my days trekking through Hyde Park, drinking tea at Harrods, and exploring the dungeons at the Tower of London. Taking this trip as a solo one allowed me to tailor my schedule to my own personal needs as I did not need to accommodate for anyone elses plans. But while I am a total jet-setter, I also believe it is important to consider the safety of traveling alone. Whenever I am alone in a foreign country, specifically speaking to one where the people do not speak english as a first language, I always try to be mindful about being safe. A few recommendations should you decide to travel alone:

• Travel alone, but not lonely. Traveling independently can allow for great self-development, but don't force it if you would do better with someone (or multiple people) by your side. 
• Know which way is up. Study the map a bit before you depart. 
• Learn a few words of the local language. It will go a long way when asking for something (i.e. a simple "thank you" after receiving directions). 

While I personally enjoy traveling alone, I also see value in traveling with a group. With others, there are more opportunities to engage in activities that may require multiple people, and it certainly adds an additional level of safety to your travels. If you are traveling with close companions it is also a great way to make some amazing memories and see incredible sites.

Either way, there are benefits to both. But personally, although I am a pretty extroverted person, I really do love to travel alone and find that I learn a lot about myself when I do.

Traveler's Checklist | Your Pocket Guide

Greetings travelers, 

Wanted to send along some information to keep in mind when traveling to a foreign country. First and foremost, it is important to do your research before you get ready to embark on a trip...research, research, research. Prior to departure, it is necessary to have an understanding of a country's particular customs and traditions. For example, as I begin planning my trip to Singapore in late July, I have learned it is considered incredibly rude to chew gum there. Although this seems like a silly consideration, it is something that is relevant to the culture and I would not have known had I not done my research. 

Additionally, as I have been traveling abroad significantly for work over the past few weeks, I have put together a travel guide for my readers as a pre-departure checklist. I tried to do some thinking about key considerations that may slip from the mind of a traveler. Remember the following when you pack up and go: 

1. Copies of your passport: If your passport gets stolen or lost, you want to ensure you can get back into the country.
2. Register with your embassy, for additional safety coverage. 
3. Inform your bank about your travels so your credit card does not get shut down while you are traveling. 
4. Always have some local cash on-hand. 
5. Bring an adapter for any chargers! Your hotel (if you are staying in one), will likely have some extras... but this can be a pain if you forget. 

Having these five items checked-off is sure to help cover off on additional safety and preparatory measures for your trip. You don't want to find yourself in a situation trying to solve any of these issues after having left your home base. Safe travels always, my friends. 

Bon voyage!

City Update | Hello from London!

Greetings Travelers, 

Checking-in from across the pond, in London! 

As another week of busy work travel has landed me here, I wanted to check in and share some photos and updates of my experience thus far. 

Having only a few short days here, I have done my best to walk through the entire city with the small amount of time I am able to. Some favorite spots have been: 

1. Kensington Palace

1. St. Paul's Cathedral - (here's the view)!

1. Hyde Park 

While I could go on forever about London, I felt it make more sense to highlight a few favorites. The city is full of adorable coffee shops, lively pubs, and rich history. Feel free to reach out should you want any more recommendations!

Cheers, travelers. 

Go-To Review | Berlin

Hi Travelers!

I recently spent some time in Berlin, and wanted to share a review of my favorite tourist spots. While I was there, I spent some time at the East Side Gallery, which is an outdoor, open-air gallery on the East Side of Berlin. There are murals that span for about a mile, painted on pieces of the Berlin Wall.

I have attached some photos of my time walking along the Gallery, and would absolutely recommend that if you are visiting the city, you should visit this area. The Gallery also lines a beautiful area along the river, and should you be lucky enough to have good weather, the view is really beautiful.

East Side Gallery Images: 

I also spent some time at the Holocaust Memorial while I was walking through the city. It is incredibly impactful and a must-see if you are visiting the city.

Overall, Berlin is a really beautiful city that is rich in history. The many districts of the city are distinct yet unified under certain commonalities. I would encourage everyone to visit as you are sure to have a unique experience filled with amazing river walks and quaint beer halls. 

Prost!

Greetings, travelers!

Hi Travelers! 

Happy Tuesday. 

By way of quick introduction, I'm Annika, and in the past few years I've quickly caught the travel bug. 

I am excited to share my upcoming adventures with you in the coming months and hope you learn a thing or two to pack in your own suitcase. Stay tuned for exciting updates on the cultures I will come to embed myself in and experiences, only to share with you along the way. 

A bit of info about me before we jump across the pond: 

• My favorite places in the world (thus far) are: London, Thailand, and Lake Placid (NY).
• I travel significantly for work. My job allows me the opportunity to spend a lot of time abroad. Although it keeps me busy, I do my best to pack in some time to learn about the local culture and experience all a country may have to offer. 
• Next up on my list are: Munich, Singapore, and Macau. 

Feel free to drop a line should you want more info about specific cities. While I still have much to learn, I hope to share some helpful information along the way. 

Cheers!