Story of My Life - Traveler's Perception

As I narrow down my choices and figure out where I what I want to do in life and where I want to live, the pros and cons isn't as easy to balance out as I thought. If only I could live life traveling from country to country every few months. Not saying that airplane would be my main source of transportation, especially because I have been tired of seeing so many different airports this month alone. Finding the right place to settle down isn't as easy as it seems. 

New York has still been the same. A division between money and happiness is what we have here. Why is it that we associate money with happiness? Do we all need money to be happy? This is something many of us fail to acknowledge and just continue to become submissive to the New York culture. I have, again, done such a thing and forgot what happiness was for just a second. Now that I take a step back, I should rethink where I would like to spend the rest of my life. 

With the perks come disadvantages in life which include every country I've previously visited: 

• Korea   The things that I have learned has definitely changed me as a person, especially the dinners that I cook now, with a big portion being Korean food. There are so many cultural differences that are contrary to my beliefs in life that it makes it difficult to live in Korea for the rest of my life. Nonetheless, there are a ton of perks and advantages of living in Korea. A handful of which makes me want to stay and live in Korea forever. Unfortunately, raising children and having them learn under the stressful and competitive Korean tradition may not be the easiest thing. The things my strict parents hand me undergo as a child nearly doesn't compare to what my students go through daily. 
• Taiwan   It is by far still my favorite tourist location for the street food that they offer. For cheap price and great food, this is difficult to top. The people are extremely friendly in Taiwan and always willing to help. I have met a handful of wonderful people from Taiwan and it is one of the places on my list that I want to move to, but there is a price to pay with the compensation and amount of work one puts in. Because the low costs of life, there is no need for a high salary compensation, but you are expected to work hard.
• Hong Kong   The people are blunt and straight forward. They may not be the nicest people in the world but they do have quite the pride in who they are. I am proud to know the Cantonese language and take pride in my family background but never expected to see or hear some of the things I have experienced in Hong Kong. The food though, is another story. This is like taking Chinatown to the next level!
• Australia   The simple fact that there are a large number of killer species that live with you, Australia is definitely not the safest place. I'm definitely not fond of insects and that is mostly what I've been seeing here in addition to a few frightening reptiles along the way. Although the minimum wage is at the top of the mark worldwide, living in Australia can add up as well. If only a working holiday can be worked out where I won't spend too much money and just work hard to save through the year! That's pretty much impossible with the amazing food culture Melbourne has to offer, LOVEEEEE it there.
• Maldives    It is the best honeymoon spot honestly. The locals are amazing, but there are not a ton of foreigners living in the Maldives. I just can't wait to go back, especially for the fresh seafood and great friends. I honestly hope and pray that it can last through the decade and overcome global warming. This is an issue that has affected us all, but when will we act on it to save our own kind?
• China   For a country that has been growing at such an incline, with a goal to be the best at everything, China is definitely one that is great for anyone who is looking to get rich. It is a bit unfortunate that the health regulations and air just isn't the best in China. There has been a lot of sacrifices in terms of health concerns, which makes me take a step back, but I wish that just wasn't the problem.
• Vietnam   This is probably one of the most relaxing countries that I have been to, but it is unfortunate that I do not speak the language. The lifestyle is something new to get used to. A New Yorker just isn't made out for the slow pace, but the food is amazing. Having to justify between living in the North where my parents lived and the South where the cuisine is amazing is another story!

Moral of this: find happiness in some way, some sort. For me, I think it's by my stomach.

Tourist Destinations - Chinatown in Incheon, Korea

Incheon, Korea is a landmark for having the best airport in the world year after year. It is still my favorite airport in the world and trust me, I have been to quite the number of airports this past year with all of the traveling done. In addition to having the best airport in the world, Incheon is also known to be the one place that the locals go to for their Chinatown. Although Chinese food and Chinese goods in Korea has its Korean influences, the Chinatown in Incheon is still worth a visit for their food.

Many locals and foreigners visit the Chinatown in Incheon to buy a handful of Chinese goods. You will see the many red and gold designs because of the Chinese influences, those being the strongest two colors. Red and gold basically stands for luck and fortune which is dispersed all over Chinatown. Using the influences of the Chinese culture, the decorations of Incheon is very similar. It is also one of the very few places in Korea that you will actually find Chinese characters which is also the traditional Korean writing, from years ago. 

The Incheon Chinatown is extremely small with a few streets of food and stores located right across the street from the Incheon station and up the block. Spending half a day in the Chinatown is more than enough, especially during lunch time. You can leisurely walk the streets and explore, eating your way up the alleys and if your stomach can hold it, go for the Korean Chinese infusion foods. There are countless numbers of Jajangmyeon restaurants in the alleys. With so many restaurants in the area, it can get a little difficult to choose, but I always look for those with the longest lines and most locals of course!

 

The one thing I will rave about, the must have here is the clay pot buns. With two stoves that are made of clay and a fire that cooks the buns stuck to the side of the huge furnace, it is one thing that everyone lines up for. You can't miss it with a huge figurine replica of the store. The owner is hugging his many buns and the best thing is, he promotes picture taking. Once the buns are in the old fashion stove and almost ready to be sold, he will open it for locals and foreigners to snap a photo. Now that's some customer service there! It is extremely difficult to find stores that will allow you to come up close and personal with the things that they are cooking, but this store is extremely friendly.

There are a handful of street vendors that sell food for you to consume as you walk through the rest of the Chinatown. This is the one place you will find a ton of cookies, sweet to the taste with a caramel inside. You can also find the Korean version of moon cakes here in Incheon. Mooncakes is something that is special to the Chinese during the Full Moon festival. For this very reason, I found Incheon special because they actually carry the moon cake. Although it is not the same as the traditional Chinese moon cakes, it is rather close enough. With different kinds of filings, they are all something to sample. You will definitely find tons of samples out along the streets because of the amount of competition. Although most taste fairly similar to one another, very few are able to distinguish the difference, myself included!

 

It is definitely recommended to go with a bunch of friends to share snacks because you just might be too full for lunch. A day of adventure with a handful of friends is always the way to go. Knowing most people who live in Seoul, Incheon is quite a trip out so be sure to make it worth it! There are a handful of parks and stores nearby that you can explore and make it a full day's trip. You'll be surprised at what you can find.

Perks of Korea Part 02

Feeding off of the last list of how Korea is so amazing, there are more perks of living in Korea than that extensive list. Some of which just might be unbelievable, but it does exist. 

Public flat spaces - Finding the luxury of your bed, living room, and just seating in public is extremely easy in Korea. They offer an area where you can sit, sleep, and enjoy an outdoor lunch. It's the service of having a picnic without having to bring everything. Considerate to those who have a sun phobia, you will find most of these places under trees, providing with a balance of sunlight. All you need is the most important item of food. 

Seats in waiting areas - You can pretty much find a seat anywhere you are expected to wait. Most often, you will find them in department stores, banks, service companies, but the best one yet is probably amusement parks. Rather than standing in line in the kiddy areas, there are seats for parents and children. We all know how handy that comes when you have a tired child running around all day and wants you to carry them. 

Delivery - Korea just might have the best delivery services. Simply order via phone or online and have food delivered to you as if you were eating in the restaurant. They provide you with silverware that they collect a few hours after you are done eating. All you have to do is leave it outside your door or building. No phone calls needed, no extra tips given, no dish washing. Uh - AAAAAMAZING. 

The special McDelivery- Now, many of us know that Korea is the only place where McDonalds actually delivers food to your front door. That's some pretty awesome service, but I'm talking about something above that level. Hang out at the beach without having to worry about food because there is someone who walks around to take orders, ice cream included! Food comes relatively fast without you having to hike from the sandy beach to the streets, returning with melted ice cream.

Anyman services - With a starting fee of less than $7 per task, you can simply call up a company (해주세요 the literal Korean translation of "do it for me") and find someone to take care of errands and chores for you. Depending on the feasibility and difficulty of the job, the price ranges. A few of the many: deliver a package within an hour, pick up your dry cleaning, deliver food, all within the day. Arrangements can be made according to, if needed. Probably one of the best services on rainy days, colder weather.

Mirrors everywhere - Yes, this is serious for women, but it may change you. After living in Korea for almost two years, I realized I have a habit of looking into a mirror as I pass by, just out of habit. I see my Korean co-workers looking into their standup mirror at the office all day. The number and sizes of mirrors that people carry and have in public is to a whole new level. You can find full mirrors in train stations, utilized by both men and women of all ages. It does come in handy when you have to take a quick check before an interview or for most cases in Korea, a date. 

Bus times and alerts - Missing your bus is probably one of the most infuriating things, especially if there is another bus blocking the view of the one you need to board. Luckily, Korea offers sheltered bus stations with maps, outlines, and computers that tell you when your next bus is coming and how far away it is. It also allows you to grab a cup of coffee if you just missed your bus, definitely comes in handy in the mornings! There is now an app in Korean that allows for you to check when the bus is coming as well.

Golf in any weather - Screen golf allows for those who are serious about golf all year around to practice and play anytime of the year and usually anytime of the day as well. With places opening late into the night, playing a game of golf can't be any easier than that. At least with this, you're not walking to chase your ball since everything is automatic. The only downside is if you're horrible, they'll automatically finish the game for you after a few strokes, just to get the game moving along!

4D Theaters - This totally beats 3D theaters because you feel more involved in the movie. How does this work? Water spraying at you, air blowing in your face, a bump on the bum area, and a handful of random things that you have to experience on your own. Definitely go for an action movie to get the full experience!

Couple couches in movie theaters - It's a couple's country and of course, Korea would be the one to offer couple couches where you can snuggle up and enjoy the movie, as if you were at home. It's definitely a cute concept, but only Korea would offer such a thing.

Public bathhouses - This is something that many foreigners are not comfortable with, but the reason why it's so amazing is for the simple fact that you can sleep overnight at a public bathhouse for an extremely low price. This is the ultimate last resort or for anyone who's on a budget and are traveling. Many couples visit the local ones as a date and utilize it as a cheaper alternative than a love motel, just for some bonding time. The more amazing bathhouses will have books, PC rooms, movie theaters and a handful of other sources of entertainment, perfect for family and friends to join in on.

Free concerts - For all of the crazy fans (mostly high school girls) that cannot afford to go to their favorite celebrity's concert, they are always on the lookout for this one perk. Korea is constantly offering free concerts which is always packed with school girls. Do be on the lookout for these because you'll be surprised at how close to the front you can get!

Freebies - Korea is known to give out so much freebies from free samples to gifts to prizes to food just by simply being a customer, even a passerby. It's amazing how high customer service is held and is actually enforced in such a country. Probably the best perk of them all!

Perks of Korea Part 01

I'm pretty sure you've heard by now that Korea is pretty amazing and the list continues as to why Korea is so amazing. Living here for the past two years, I've grown to love the culture and the people, although there are still a few things that bother me. Nonetheless, it's a love hate relationship, more love than hate and I can't imagine how life will be when I move back to Korea. I think Korea actually changes everyone, all in different ways. A few ways Korea has spoiled me and making life that much easier:


Amazing people - People all over Korea are willing to help. Traveling out to the country side, I even had people volunteer to take me to places because I was with a few girls traveling alone. Thankfully, there's no crazy people here in Korea which means they actually are doing it out of the kindness of their hearts!

One other great thing about the locals is the true friendliness that comes from within. They aren't looking to harm people and for those of the younger generation, once they know you speak English, they are more inclined to friend you. Locals are always looking for foreigners to hang out with, practice English, and of course, drink and party with. They label us as the cool kids just cause!

4 wheel shopping carts - Shopping in America is the worst when it's the weekend for the very reason that it is jam packed. Shopping around and being able to go forward, backward on carts that barely want to slide which means getting out of people's way and moving around is difficult. In Korea, and most Asian countries, the four wheels actually slide side to side meaning you can move around easily!
Point system with actual discounts - Using different point cards when you go out shopping and eating, the point system actually adds up to different discounts. It's used as a credit that can be applied to your next order and the best part is, it works on online purchases as well! 

Extra room buses - Buses in America are usually packing people in as much as possible meaning there are rows of four seats. In Korea, you can find a more spacious bus with three seats in a row where its a pair together and one single. These extra room buses allow for you to control the volume to the TV that is playing as well as adjust the seat. You'll practically feel as if you're sitting in your own sofa at home, except you're traveling to another place.

Making your own parking spot - In Korea, practically everyone has a sign that lists their phone number which means if you're blocking someone, they'll give you a call so you can move your car. It's a great concept, except when you get a little unlucky and have someone who does not pick up their phone. For this very reason, a lot of Koreans just make their own parking spots across town.

Booking seat for movie theatre - Asian countries offer the service of reserving a seat before you go into the theatre. This allows for you to not have to go into theaters early to wait on line. It also allows for you to have an assigned seat which means you don't have to feel rude about asking the person to move their bag and such.

Soju is cheaper than water - For all the "alcoholics" or those who know the price of Soju back in the States, it's a lot cheaper in Korea which means you can have a good time at a lower price please be wise about it though!

Free samples - You get free samples of food everywhere as well as free beauty samples when you go shopping, but how about free alcohol in the supermarket. Yes, free samples of wine and beer at the supermarket. It's a bit crazy how they're able to offer so much more just to get you to buy something, even vitamins.

Workout machines in public - Working out in a gym in public allows you to save money at the gym and the best part is the Koreans actually care for their items. They use it and respect each and every piece so you won't find crazy kids breaking these things in public. You'll find some crazy back stretchers and such in Korea, but it's pretty amazing how well they work. The best part is everything being free.

Dust off sand and dirt from your shoes after a hike - It's crazy how Koreans know how to cater to their people by making life so much easier. You don't have to worry about having dusty shoes after a hike because there are machines that allow you to blow off the dust!

Create your own playlist - It's a bit crazy, but music is pretty important in Korea. There are a handful of places in Korea that allows for you to create your own playlist, especially at bars. They're extremely friendly and want you to enjoy your time around. The best part is being able to have a good time on a night out, even if it is at Taco Bell. Yes, Taco Bell allows for you to create your own playlist as well!

Drinking in public - So this should be used with caution and to do so responsibly, but you are allow to drink in public. The best part might be drinking on a hike with the older generation who will generously offer you some of their magkeolli (traditional Korean rice wine) and speak to you in broken English. How about that for a cultural experience!

Freedom as a hospital patient - This is definitely a little weird but for the most part, it is great for those who are looking to get a breath of fresh air and enjoy some time with family. The weirdest part may be though, that some drag their IV with them in public. Yes, it's happened where a patient walked across the street attached to his portable IV.

Sitting in a wet ride and not getting "too wet"- This may defeat the purpose of a water ride but they have a protective film where you can sit and hide under so you do not get too wet. If you do get extremely wet, there is a "drying" station with fans and heat that helps you to dry off quickly. That's probably one of the best parts, how considerate of Koreans!

NO TIP - This is the ultimate perk about living in Asia because they almost all follow the no tip rule. Although some restaurants may charge an extra 10% as their tip, the more fancy ones of course, but it beats having to pay a minimum of 15% back at home. That's a lot of saving when you're living abroad and constantly eating out!

Safety - Aside from some who are freaking out about the North Korea-South Korea situation, Korea is a relatively safe place to live. There aren't as many crazy things happening in Korea as there are in America. For one, you can pass out drunk in the middle of the streets, sleep the night away, and no one will disrupt you. You may have a few photos taken of you and exposed via social media, but at least you still have your wallet with all of your money in it.

Story of My Life - Highlights of the Travels

Many call me crazy for traveling alone; in fact I call others crazy when I find out that they, as females, travel alone as well. I have came to understand that traveling alone really does have its perks, but it can definitely get lonely at times. This two month journey started with a family trip to meeting strangers and catching up with old friends in their home countries. It was an overall amazing experience, being able to meet so many different people, create so many new memories. You'd be surprised at how much you can accomplish and learn about yourself, about others, about the way the world works. 

This two month travel has allowed me to experience new things and meet with some amazing people. A highlight of each place includes: 

Taipei, Taiwan - This time around, I was able to catch up with a friend and see the amazing sunset at the Elephant Mountain. It was definitely special for the simple fact that the new MRT line for Elephant Mountain opened when I was in town, making it a special day for locals and tourists to see the sunset. 

Although I was in Taiwan for Thanksgiving, I definitely didn't miss out on the special holiday, except this time was quite unique. Having a homemade Thanksgiving dinner with people from all around the world who were connected by some sort of connection was unexpected of course. Sharing travels of the world and tips of life, whether or not I should move to Taiwan as my next career option. Ada Liu, our host of the Air B n B apartment was one to thank for this!

Sai Kung, Hong Kong - Meeting a Couchsurfer who introduced me to her hilarious coworkers the very first day of landing and taught the local slang again. It's amazing how much changes within one year in a country in regards to lingo. It's always great to hang with the locals who are around your age because of the number of things they'll share with you, without the awkward feeling of having to keep a certain image. 

Mongkok, Hong Kong - Catching up with college friends for a dinner that lead to me buying the Samsung Note 3 in Hong Kong. You can simply trade in your old cell phone (even with a cracked screen) for credit towards a new phone. It is a system that the locals as well as those who come from surrounding areas use in order to get the latest phones without the need of being linked to a contract. The perk of this is the advantage of all phones being factory unlocked already which allows for you to travel without any problems. They'll also throw in a few extra freebies for you which makes it that much more awesome! Then again, catching up with old friends and cracking jokes makes it memorable already.

Singapore - Feasting through the Hawker stalls with a local couple that my friend virtually introduced me to a few days before landing was definitely a stretch for my stomach. They were the cutest couple that took me around Singapore and ate a ton of food with me! The best part about food in Singapore is that you'll know its amazingly good when there is a line. Because Singapore is such a small country locals and tourists actually eat the same things so there's no such thing as overpriced tourist traps. 

Being as friendly as I am, a few months back when I was on the way to Thailand, I met two guys who were from Singapore and Malaysia. After bothering him weeks in advance, he surprisingly spent an entire day with me showing me the ins and outs of Singapore's memorable places and the famous spicy chili crab at the No Name Restaurant which is an extremely popular chain to have this dish. Just be sure to book in advanced because there are long waits! 

Sydney, Australia - Catching up with a friend I met my first month when I moved to Korea two years back and continuing our bond was more than I can ask. It was always a relationship over coffee every few months but after being chauffeured around by this guy who planned and took me to every spot he could think of in Sydney, the friendship definitely became stronger! I was definitely glad to have him around to show me the best views of Sydney. 

As spontaneous as I am, I also managed to grab brunch with a waitress that I met at the famous Pancakes on the Rocks restaurant. It's amazing how one simple question can turn into a great friendship. This Cantonese bond is definitely sticking around, probably making me want to furthermore go to Australia for a working holiday. It's amazing where and how one can make friends. 

As ironic as it may be, going to the beach alone one early afternoon when my dear friend was studying for his exam provided me with the opportunity to meet with two travelers out of chance. In fact, I simply asked them to watch over my bag as I went into the water and a friendship blossomed from there. It might have been fate that one of the girls were actually flying to Melbourne the same day I was, giving us the opportunity to travel together. 

Melbourne, Australia - Melbourne has a crazy amount of culture. There is laneway art and all types of amazing food. There are people singing out in the streets and the convenient trams that makes traveling easy. Although it was convenient, getting in some good exercise and walking the whole city was exactly what I did. The longest walk was probably to the beach which took approximately two hours one way, definitely still worth it to balance out all of the amazing foods I got to eat! 

Great Ocean Road, Australia - This is a must see for everyone and my recommendation is to take the helicopter tour. You are getting an amazing view from up high, an unforgettable one of the last apostles that are left standing. It is definitely worth spending the extra money to experience the ride in a place that you might not get to see ever again. The photos from up high is just breath taking. If you're going to pay for a helicopter ride, it might as well be in an extra significant place.

Cairns, Australia - The Great Barrier Reef is a must visit for guests of all ages. I recommend checking the wind knots prior to your trip out and rescheduling if needed. You are pretty much on a boat and a rocking dock all day. The experience was treacherous for many who experienced motion sickness all day. For those who held up, going snorkeling is recommended for the amazing reef. If you have the money to, I suggest going scuba diving. You are actually able to get up close with the fish and actually touch the spaghetti corals, one thing I will never forget. The most common large fish you will get a photo with is the Humphead Wrasse which makes the experience that much more amazing. 

Brisbane, Australia - Spending Christmas in one of the quieter cities of Australia was definitely difficult. The one good thing was there were a ton of houses that decorated for the Christmas theme. Thanks to two locals who were also on the hunt of Christmas decorations, we were able to visit some of the prettiest and more honored houses for their Christmas decorations. Hundreds of locals also flood the houses to take pictures and join in on the celebration of Christmas. It was definitely the closest to a white Christmas that I have gotten thus far. 

Surfers Paradise, Australia - The name practically says it all. As my last destination in Australia, going out with a bang was definitely necessary. The hotel thought so as well; they upgraded me to a suite for one. The staff at Outriggers Surfers Paradise definitely made life easy and helped me book a ton of activities. My own favorite by far is the private surfing lessons. Thanks to an awesome instructor from Go Ride a Wave, I was actually able to catch a wave! It's definitely an awesome feeling to be able to actually surf on the first go and it is reassuring that all instructors are in fact, certified life guards. Being the oldest in town and probably the most trustworthy one, it is definitely worth it to take a lesson or two. 

Penang, Malaysia - Penang was the place I experienced the airline losing my luggage, but even with that as a problem, I didn't let it get the best of me. In fact, I met some very supportive hostel owners at the Kimberley House that helped to make the situation better. Positive energy and reminders is definitely the way to go. It was quite a short trip in Penang, but I got lucky to have an awesome taxi driver who also served as a tour guide and gave me the history of Penang. It's always awesome to speak to taxi drivers who love to engage in conversation with others! I find them extremely welcoming to foreigners especially, no matter what country I'm in.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - Although many people warned me not to go to KL and told me to be extremely careful of everything, it honestly was not as bad as everyone made it sound. KL has been amazing and one of the friendliest hostels that I have stayed at was the Sunshine Bedz hostel in the heart of Bukit Bitang. The owner is extremely friendly, helpful and hilarious. Patrick really cares about his guests at the hostel and will put in the extra effort to get to know the guests of his place. He even goes out with the guests and tries to arrange activities where guests can join in together. There's nothing better than someone who actually cares to help. This is one thing that many hostels lack with the change of staff through the day, but Patrick is one entertaining individual that I would totally hang with all day!

Maldives - I think this one stand for itself with the amazing views that the Maldives offer. My trip does not end there. I was blessed to have to opportunity to meet two amazing locals. Just by asking locals about boat rentals to the other islands as I walked from my hotel, I randomly stumbled upon one guy who knew another and gave this guy a call. Not too long after, Venger of Rasdhoo Inn, pulled up on a motor bike at the exact place I was standing. As he tried to plan the boat arrangements for my new few days in the Maldives, I stood there waiting. 

Not too long after that, Venger asked me to a cup of coffee and as crazy as I am, I said yes and hopped on his bike. My hearts was racing with the possibility that I could be getting robbed of the thirty dollars in my pocket or even kidnapped. Nonetheless, I still hopped on and am glad I did because the rest makes history in my life. Venger and I bonded over coffee when not too long after, two guys joined us. It was quite a nerve wrecking experience for the simple fact that I was one girl surrounded by three guys. These three guys turned out to be the friendliest and extremely entertaining individuals.

Over the next few days, Venger and a friend Ali spoiled me to the max by taking me to experience the local foods for every meal possible, introducing me to their friends over coffee and even set up boat arrangements to the surrounding islands for me. It was a memorable experience for sure. This random meeting as grown to be a friendship that will eventually bring me back to the Maldives. For anyone traveling on a budget, Venger will definitely make the best of it in every way that he can. Be sure to email him at venger@gmail.com, telling him that you are a friend of mine ^.^  

Now if you plan wisely as suggested in my previous blog, traveling on a budget will definitely help with the explorations and in creating your own traveling highlights.

Story of My Life - Budget Traveling

Traveling for a long duration of time can be quite expensive or that's what you may think. There are a few alternatives to hotels and tour arrangements that will help your wallet when you're traveling on a budget.  For starters, the best way for anyone to save on accommodation is to utilize Couchsurfing. It is a "free" system where people allow you to sleep on their couch (or if you're lucky enough an extra room) for the night you're in town. The experience differs from person to person, place to place. But for one, you'll meet tons of amazing people, if you are smart about the hosts. Couchsurfing is not the safest alternative for both the couchsurfer and host. There is a lot on the line and it is a system based on trust. Second, they know the area and most are willing to show you around and give you a tour from the locals perspective. For many places, this is important so you can dodge the tourist traps. One of my favorite things is sharing meals with hosts who knows where and what all the food foods are. Just be mindful and respectful of your host, Couchsurfing is not made for travelers to abuse the hosts who offer a home. Some hosts have more than one surfer at a time which allows you to explore with another person and share even more stories.

The other option is to go with Air B n B where you can rent a room or share a sleeping space with the locals. As an important travel tip to those who are traveling in big groups or with a family, going for a place through Air B n B is recommended with the amount of money you can save for a larger space. Most places are fully furnished which allows for you to cook your own meals and do laundry if needed. Depending on the space, it differs from host to host, but at the very minimum the privacy is respected and this is definitely more reliable than Couchsurfing because there is money on the line. Hosts build their rental space and page through the recommendations of those who stay which promotes a safer and cleaner environment. It is also less likely for a host to cancel on you which occasionally happens though Couchsurfing and requires you to stir for a new space at the very last minute. 

If you're not comfortable with sharing a space in a stranger's home, budget traveling can be done by staying at hostels and renting a bed for a few nights. With all sorts of dormitory setting, girls can go with the all female dormitory to play it safe but the cost is a little higher than the mixed dormitories. Staying at a mixed hostel dormitory room once, it was actually not bad at all. Most travelers are friendly and would like to hang out and do things with you! but you'll have a few long term hostel renters that just want to keep to themselves. Don't be deterred by this because the staff is usually extremely friendly in providing information and there is always a lounge area that allows for you to converse with other travelers. Some opt out to have a more personal space by paying for a private room, but this does not mean they aren't lonely. Getting a private room in a hostel is always a cheaper alternative than to a hotel room, so don't forget about that option. With the price though, comes the lack of hotel service that you would normally get. 

In addition to accommodation, finding things to do by dodging the tour groups is through a lot of research (maybe not so much). Utilizing the tourist information helps with planning day to day activities as well as finding special activities the town has to offer. Doing your research before visiting a specific location is another way to travel on a budget. This is probably the better option because utilizing websites like Trip Advisor and Lonely Planet allows you to receive extremely informative travel tips and even an estimation of travel costs. You'd be surprised at how much you can save on not only money, but time as well. Doing your research online also allows you to plan your time accordingly. Because there can be so much or so little to do, planning day of can be difficult. 

You may also find that there are free tours offered in certain cities. This is flexible for those on a budget since tour guides do not ask for a fee, but getting the a coffee or small meal is recommended if you're on a walking tour. For those who have to travel with use of public transportation or into tourist areas that require tickets, it is almost mandatory for you to pay for their ticket. Still, you're saving on the extra fees and tips with paid tours and practically doing the same exact thing. 

Should you need to book anything else which includes activities or travel options, remember to get a quote online before going with a travel agent or even the concierge of your hotel and hostel. For many companies, they will match the lowest cost you have found online in order to maintain business. Another recommendation is to stay away from hostel-hotel concierge and travel agencies on main streets. The reason for this is their convenience may come at a price. Walking into smaller companies and those that are further out allows for you to save on money and many of the time, it is the same tour company at your local concierge. 

As a last tip, just remember to give yourself a budget and travel the way locals do. You'll be surprised at how much more money you save if you plan ahead. Always ask around for recommendations, people do not bite and no, you don't look stupid doing so. 

Story of My Life - Quarter Century Crisis

 I turn 25 this Christmas Day and I still don't know what I want to do with my life. Quarter century crisis that many have of course, but it doesn't get any easier by the day. After finishing up two years in my life, I have decided that I don't want to live in the States forever. It makes things a little difficult with no definite plans. Being abroad is what I hope for, but how easy it is to land a job with good pay in a third world country? Very slim. On another note, how easy is it to land my dream job abroad? Practically impossible. What is my dream job? To have my own show if traveling and eating all sorts of crazy stuff, doing all sorts of crazy things as it is filmed. Yup, in my dreams.

 I have a passion for food and traveling. I eat all sorts of crazy taboo foods without any hesitation- to some extent. I love seeing nature and doing all sorts of crazy things. What i am grateful for these last two hears is that I feel that I have checked off so much on my bucket list these past two years alone that many do not have the chance to do ever in their lifetime. After reading so many articles that circle Buzzfeed and many publications about regrets in life and what to do in your 20s, it was just that that sparked my last month. For the past month, traveling around the world and seeing what it has to offer has been quite the thrill. There's so many eye openers that has further changed who I am as a person and broadened my perspective on life. 

Today has been one special day. I am in a foreign country, just spent my birthday with two strangers that I met yesterday who are wonderful people. From couch surfing, one picked me up at the airport yesterday and took me out to dinner. We then proceeded to go Christmas light hunting with his friend who then spent Christmas Day with us exploring the city. I have done some crazy things in life and feel that I have finally grown up. I was quite a drama queen, extremely immature, but I have learned the way of life. Now that I am finally 25 and can be quoted as more "wiser" a few words of advice to you are: 

1. Don't let others change your mind. I have had this happened to me so many times and to be honest, I just waste a lot of time to do something I don't really believe in and in the end, I go back to my gut instinct. I always fish at my friends for advice (I'm sure most of them are sick of me for this) but in reality, I'm looking for confirmation of what I honestly want. Everytime I get an opinion contrary to mine as advice, I always throw them a reason of why it is a bad idea to proceed until I get them to agree with my intial thought. Chase what you believe in and live in the moment.

2. Find a middle ground between saving and spending. YOLO. I get it, but because YOLO, you need to also plan for a future that allows for you to do the things that you want. I worked hard since I was 16 and saved up a whole life's saving. I never really spent any of it and managed to save up until it was practically scammed from me, which leads me to...

3. Don't trust so easily. You have to be smart and wise and although you may pity others and feel bad for them, you have to think in terms of what is an advantage for you as well. Up until I was about 22, everything I worked for was reflected in my bank account but it was a little over two years ago that I lost $30K at one time because I was gullible to believe in the good of people. 

4. Help others. Now I'm not saying you shouldn't believe in others just because a few bad people ruin the pot for many. Since then, I have tried to help others without having to give up too much. I've been volunteering and finding ways to donate whenever possible. Just be sure to find trustworthy organizations to stick with when it comes to these various efforts. 

5. Meet as much people from different countries as possible. Growing up, I went through phases of selective nationalities I would hang out with and that was probably one of the dumbest things now that I look back. You can't judge others based on the way they look and their ethnicity. It tells you nothing about the person. Since I've been traveling abroad, I realized that some of these people I would probably never talk to if I was in America. I'm glad I no longer limit myself because you'll be amazed at what you do learn from others! 

6. Don't be scared to try something new. I honestly can say I HATE when people say yuck or simply reject something without trying it. Just because I am eating a bug does not mean it is disgusting, fried grasshoppers in the night markets are amazing. Not taking boxing classes because I'm out of shape or I have no time is no excuse either. You'll be surprised at what you actually do enjoy once you try something new.

7. Live spontaneously. I have always planned out everything in life since I was a kid. Problem is most of the time, things almost never go as planned. What then? Normally I would freak out and be such a pessimist about it for the day, but why do that when you can be spontaneous and adventurous. This past month, I have done the least planning ever in my life. I am enjoying my travels day by day and it actually has been so much less stress.

8. Smile. My very last piece of advice is smile. I was told when I was in high school that I brighten up the day for one of my teachers and I never understood why. He then proceeded to tell me that if I walked around the hallways and look at how many people actually smile, I would understand. Once I did, I continued to smile because it is contagious and does help to make everyone's days just a tad bit better.

Happy holidays to you and your family!