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My 10 favorite Instagram feeds for travel inspiration in 2016

Historic fish house in Pine Island Sound, Florida

I don’t know about you, but the ‘Gram has quickly become one of my top sources for travel inspiration – especially in 2016. While travel magazines, blogs, crowdsourcing websites (like TripAdvisor) and travel shows are still high on my priority list for trip planning, I find myself drawn to Instagram because of it’s high-impact visuals, user-generated content, and its ability to provide me with real-time views.Historic fish house in Pine Island Sound, Florida

People post as they roam in a beautiful yet authentic way, usually without the over processed look of professionally commissioned photography.  Some ‘Grammers simply post out-of-this-world shots, while others excel at describing the scene so well that you feel you were there with them at the exact time they snapped the photo. And a select few just seem to exude an inner glow, regardless of their location. Whether the photo has great angles or lighting  – or not, they’re clearly having so much fun that you couldn’t care less if it’s not postcard-perfect. You just wanna be where they are anyway!

These were my fave most stalked Instagram accounts in 2016, in no particular order.

1. @truthslinger

An artist who was born and raised in Machakos, Mutua Matheka masterfully uses his lens to help paint the wide array of colors of Kenya – and the continent of Africa – one frame at a time. He shoots his selected subjects from unique perspectives, and words fail me when I try to describe the end results. They most fitting and succinct adjective is DOPE. 

2.@JeremyJauncey

Other than being a drop-dead gorgeous Scot who will leave you constantly drooling for more of his special brand of eye candy, Jeremy is the founder and CEO of Beautiful Destinations, which, at close to eight million followers, is one of Instagram’s most popular travel accounts. This is his personal feed, and it gives you insight into the world of a blossoming entrepreneur who appears to be a very eligible (and hot), globetrotting bachelor.

3. @TheWorldUpCloser

I came across this account shortly after I launched my blog two years ago, and I have watched Shea Powell’s following grow from 600+ to 52K+ in what seems like very little time. Based in my home country of Jamaica, she’s been able to travel to many far-flung locations despite having considerably less visa-free access than other bloggers at her level. (That’s our inbred island girl go-getter spirit at work!) While purposefully pursuing her dreams, she’s also managed to capture the imagination of people from all over the world with her arresting images.

To live. To love. To learn. To dream. To explore. To inspire.

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4.@mylifesatravelmovie

Florida native Alyssa Ramos’ feed is so fairytale like and dreamy, she puts the ‘inspire’ in the word inspiration. Known for her blonde bombshell good looks, relentless work ethic, and her affinity for selfies taken with Go Pro cameras, Alyssa’s account takes you on a whimsical journey from Bolivia to Signapore to Bali, and everywhere you can think of in between.

5.@philsykes3

British-born and Dubai-based Phil Sykes doesn’t have a travel-focused account per se, but prepare to be WOWed when he and his family set off for their frequent adventures, or when he ventures off alone. His landscape shots often leave you breathless, and his portraits are evolving into ones worthy of photo journalism assignments from Time magazine, National Geographic Traveler, and others. I mean seriously, if he keeps his game on fleek like this, he’ll soon find himself on a trajectory to snapping photos for the best of the best.

6. @Travelnoir

The number of travel sites dedicated to showcasing the Black Travel Movement is growing, but with 325K followers and counting, Travel Noire is, to date, the IG gold standard. It’s main audience consists of young black millennials with some cash to burn and a penchant to see the world (not Gen Xers like me who refuse to roll over and play dead even though many travel brands already act like we are.). The more exotic the place, the more featured it is. Think Santorini, Greece; Marrakesh, Morocco; Capri, Italy, and many more.

Higher heights. @gentetiquette // Montserrat, Spain. #travelnoire #montserrat

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7. @jackson.groves

Other than providing you with an unwavering supply of striking imagery, Jackson has the uncanny ability to make dealing with a nomadic lifestyle look super laid back and easy. This  Aussie reminds you of the guy next door who used to climb trees and run the neighborhood ragged with you as a child. Sometimes I feel like ‘he’s a friend in my head’, as the irrepressible Wendy Williams of U.S. talk show fame would say.

8. @minoritynomad

I like Erik Prince’s feed not so much for the artistry of it, but more for the fact that he travels to destinations other people tend to overlook. By doing so, he doesn’t post the ‘same ole’ stuff. Let’s be honest, how many pictures of the Eiffel Tower or Christ The Redeemer Statue can you see before you start rolling your eyes? At 92 countries and counting, this former aerospace engineer (US Air Force) is living MY dream.

9. @tararielle

This Brooklyn-based resident is my go-to source when I need a tasteful burst of color in my day. I’m not exactly sure how she does it, but Tara always seems to see the hues and tones in her backgrounds that other people miss. Her photos are so vibrant, they literally pop. It’s no wonder her IG influencer status is growing. Side note: I’m willing to bet that her “monogrammed” straw hat is as much a rising internet sensation as she is.

"Color can do anything that black-and-white can." —Vincenti Minnelli

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10. @glographics

Gloria Atanmo is a newly-minted author, a regular contributor to many online publications, and a blogger, but for me, her biggest claim to fame is her mega-watt personality. I’ve never met the lady in person, but her pictures, videos, and vivid descriptions are always presented in such a bubbly, effervescent manner that they scream FUN. Believe me, her feed is a reliable picker upper on those ‘oh, shucks that did NOT just happen’ days.

So, that’s my 2016 list. Which ‘Grammers get your scroll-worthy vote?

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Bonus mention:

@dominicliam

My newest discovery is from Greece, and Dominic’s signature style is to use silhouettes to tell his swoon-worthy stories. Regrettably, he rarely geotags his locations, but his way of looking at a scene makes you dream of escaping to his magical places nonetheless.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BV_7191lhOY/

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Jobs with Travel Benefits: E-Commerce & Business Development Manager

Great news! My Jobs with Travel Benefits feature is back this month, and I’m super stoked because I get to kick off this new set of career-inspiring stories with a fellow Jamaican wanderlust maven.  I’ve known Tara Bradshaw for 10 years, and during that time two things have been constant: she’s either been off exploring some far-flung destination, or she’s been diligently planning her next vacation.

Checking out the street art in Wynwood Art District, Miami
Checking out the street art in Wynwood Art District, Miami

Travel is definitely high on Tara’s priority list. I’d say fashion and shoes (the latter being another shared interest) are too.  It’s very likely she will beat me up for even mentioning this, but good food ranks high for her as well.  You would never guess her MAJOR foodie status just by looking at her, though. That’s because with her svelte frame, she could give Chanel Iman and Kendall Jenner a run for their money on any lifestyle magazine shoot!

But enough with the ribbing. Here’s what she had to say…

So Tara, you’re the E-Commerce & Business Development Manager at one of the most established and respected travel agencies in Jamaica. What does that role involve?

My role focuses on the e-commerce and development side of the business. Trafalgar Travel has always embraced technology, and we have a number of proprietary e-commerce solutions for corporations. My team and I are responsible for the development, roll-out, marketing and maintenance of those products.  In addition, I also book flights, hotels, honeymoons, cruises, and family reunions on behalf of clients. However, the majority of my work surrounds projects related to technology, and any electronic commercial transactions that relate to travel. On a regular basis,  I prepare proposals, make presentations, do demos of the products, write contracts, and sign on new accounts.

In awe of The Great Wall of China
In awe of The Great Wall of China

I love it when I get asked  “do people still use travel agents?”, because I’m proud to call myself a well-rounded travel consultant, and I’m confident of the value my colleagues and I have to offer.

I heard US TV personality Steve Harvey say something in an interview some years ago that has stuck with me for some time. He said, “your career is what you’re paid for, but your passion is what you’re made for.” Would you say this role gives you the best of both worlds?

I think when you have the opportunity to work in an industry that you love, you do get the best of both worlds.  Before this job, I spent a maximum of a year and a half in any position I was in.  I even disclosed that fact in my interview, and warned my employers that I may not be around after six months!  Close to five years later, I’m still here… and that says it all to me.  I love to travel, and I also love helping others to plan their trips.  I feel very lucky to be able to get paid to do something I’m so passionate about.

What are some of the destinations you’ve been to as a direct result of this position?

I’ve been fortunate enough to go on a few work-related trips since I’ve been at Trafalgar.  In my very first year, I went to Nice, France for a supplier visit.  I’ve been to Cancun for a trade show, Toronto for a training course, New York on a new airline’s inaugural flight, and Amsterdam for a conference.  The business development aspect of my job also allows me to travel to events and conferences if I identify potential opportunities for Trafalgar.

Having fun at the botanical gardens in Amsterdam
Having fun in the botanical gardens in Amsterdam

I’ve known you long enough to guess you’ve squeezed some sightseeing time into those trips. Tell us about some of the fun things you got to do in those destinations.

I try to make the most of any business trips I go on, whether it’s exploring the city after the work portion of the day has ended, or adding some personal days before or after.  I usually compare costs of the “official” dates versus the cost for the dates including my personal days.  If there’s a difference in cost, I pay the balance.  It almost always works out cheaper than if I had to buy a ticket on my own.

I research the destinations (and weather) beforehand so that I have an idea of what’s happening around that time.  I like getting a feel of local life and am always on the lookout for any special events happening during my stay.  I’ve been to museums, food festivals, wine tastings, art galleries, botanical gardens, and lots more.

About to sample some xiao long bao (food dumplings ) in a Beijing hutong (alley).
About to sample some xiao long bao (food dumplings ) in Beijing.

In addition to work-related travel, you globetrot quite a bit in your spare time.  How far in advance do your plan trips, and what tools do you use as inspiration to build your itineraries?

I tend to plan my trips way in advance, sometimes even up to nine or 10 months beforehand. I have booked a few spur of the moment trips, though.   My personal motivation is just always having a trip to look forward to.  I don’t really use a particular tool to build my itineraries, I just research several destinations and websites and seek out things that interest me.

I follow a ton of travel accounts on Instagram, so I’m inspired by many of the posts I see.  I seek accommodation that’s in a central location or very close to public transit.  I also read local destination blogs in addition to the usual sites like Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, TripAdvisor.  I especially like the local blogs to get information on what and where to eat.

Outside the Grand Palace in Bangkok
Outside the Grand Palace in Bangkok

You have a fantastic Instagram feed. How do you decide what images to share? Also, when you travel solo, how do you get the best destination photos with you in them?

Thanks!  Honestly, I don’t have a strategy to which images I share.  I just post the pictures I love.  My preference is to take photos of the destination itself, so having travel photos with me in them aren’t usually my priority.  I absolutely do not own a selfie stick.  If I really want a photo with me in it, I’ll usually offer to take another traveler’s picture, and then ask him/her to return the favor. The exception was my very first solo trip, which was to Beijing. I booked a 30-minute private shoot with Flytographer, a company that contracts local photographers in several destinations around the world.  That was awesome.

The Jamaican dollar is not very strong on the currency exchange market right now, yet you’ve been to some truly long-haul destinations on your own dime. What are the top three tips you can share with persons who are on a tight budget and do not believe that travel is affordable for them?

This is such a timely question.  Just last night I had a friend say to me, “I need to do what you do to rack up your miles.  Or do you get passes?  What do you do?”  I replied that what I do is purchase tickets and she said, “Oh, for your office?”  I said no…. for myself.  Like a regular person.  LOL.  I think most people are under the impression that I travel for free, but I pay full fare just like everyone else.

My top 3 tips are:

1.  Try to save in a foreign currency that’s stable and strong, if possible. Travel from Jamaica is less affordable than travel from other parts of the world, but it is still attainable.  Have a travel goal in mind and save monthly towards it.  Research your destinations – airfare may end up being the most expensive part, but meals and accommodation are usually very affordable.

2. Understand the difference between cost and value. Just because something is the cheapest, doesn’t mean it’s the best value.  You could book a hotel that’s dirt cheap, but then that also takes you 45 minutes plus taxi fare to get to any major attractions, which will waste your time and money.

3. Be flexible, especially if you’re traveling alone. Be willing to make more than one connection.  Be willing to travel in Economy class.  Be willing to leave from a different airport.  Be willing to travel in off-season.  Consider traveling mid-week instead of on the weekend.  I have persons who ask me for the absolute lowest cost, but yet have exact specifications on date/time of departure, which hotel to stay in, and which class to travel in.  Again, it comes back to cost vs. value.

Thanks for that great bit of advice, lady! The best thing about your tips is that they are easy principles to apply, wherever you live in the world.

The famous Chain Bridge in Budapest
The famous Chain Bridge in Budapest

You can follow Tara’s adventures – at home and abroad – on Instagram. Her handle is @tarabarrra.

(All photos used in this story are courtesy of her.)

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About Trafalgar Travel

Trafalgar Travel  was founded in 1995 and has enjoyed 21 years of success in the industry.  The agency has been recognized by the World Travel Awards as the Caribbean’s Leading Travel Agency for 10 consecutive years.  They are the largest travel agency in the Caribbean, with offices in Jamaica, Trinidad, Barbados, St. Kitts and the Bahamas.  Trafalgar Travel also has an in-house software development team focused on creating technological solutions for the travel industry.

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Editor’s Note:

My goal is to make this a monthly feature, so if you know someone who has a cool job with travel benefits and he or she wants to talk about it, please email me at [email protected]. Thanks!

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Three great beach alternatives in Southwest Florida

Sighseeing at Koreshan State Park

Most people travel to Florida for one of two reasons: to visit amusement parks, or to enjoy water-based activities above or below the sea. But other than sunny skies, sand-lined shores and sensational slides, the Sunshine State also satisfies the desire for other types of vacations. Nature lovers, foodies, as well as culture and history buffs can decide NOT to pack their flip-flops or swimsuits and still have loads of fun.  The one must-have anywhere in the state, is sunscreen.  With average annual temperatures hovering near 85°F (29 °C), no one should leave home without good SPF protection.

Sighseeing at Koreshan State Park
Koreshan State Park

Below are three great activities for travelers who are considering spending time in Southwest Florida – away from the beach.

The Mound House

Mound House on Fort Myers Beach
View of the museum and surrounding lawns from the dock

Anyone in need of tangible evidence that Calusa Indians were a huge part of Southwest Florida’s history 2000 years ago, need look no further than The Mound House on Fort Myers Beach. Documented as the first inhabitants of the Barrier Islands, the Calusa lived in fishing villages and their diet mostly consisted of shellfish and vegetables. They later used the shells to manufacture tools and build mounds that raised their sleeping abodes above sea level.

Living room of The Mound House
Recreation of the living room of the Case’s bungalow

The Mound House is both an archaeological and historical site. The main entrance recreates the living room of previous owner, the Case family. Antique furnishings that match the period were arranged using old photographs as a guide.

Artifacts of teh Calusa Indians
Utensils and sleeping gear of the Calusa Indians

Underneath the imposing main building, visitors get to see a section of the shell embankment while they listen to the story of its excavation. Pertinent facts are interspersed with a multi-layered, horizontal light display that shows the sections in the mound that relate to the finds being discussed. If you have kids, they will love the huge, colorful mural that dominates the left side of the room. It depicts the communal-style living of the Calusa and many of the artifacts discovered at the site are illustrated in various scenes. Upstairs rooms showcase Calusa Indian artifacts, a few interactive exhibits, and belongings from owners over the years.

The grounds are landscaped with different species of plants and trees, most of which are native to Florida.

The museum is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9a.m. to 4p.m.

Koreshan State Park

Located just off US Highway 41 on Corkscrew Road, this former religious settlement is a sprawling preserve along the Estero River featuring beautifully manicured lawns, meandering streams, exotic plant life of all shapes and sizes, and historic buildings. Guests also have access to picnic sites and camp grounds.

Kayakers paddling down the Estero River
Kayakers paddling down the Estero River

A free walking tour is offered at 10 a.m. on weekends. Visitors can learn about the utopian community led by Dr. Cyrus R. Teed in the late 1800s up to his death in 1908. Teed had more than 200 followers, mostly women, relocate with him from New York after he took on the name “Koresh” which is the Hebrew word for means shepherd.

House of Dr. Tyrus Teed that also doubled as a schoolroom (Koreshan Park)
House of Dr. Tyrus Teed that also doubled as a schoolroom

To earn their livelihood they ran a bakery, sawmill, general store, printing facility and hotel at various times throughout their history. However, there are no living descendants today. The group’s vow of celibacy ultimately affected the community’s growth.

Gorgeous section of the gardens at Koreshan State Park
Gorgeous section of the gardens at Koreshan State Park

The park is open from 8a.m. until sunset, 365 days per year. Self-guided tour booklets are available at the entrance.

Edison and Ford Winter Estates

This 20-acre property – the imposing winter homes of the famed inventor Thomas Edison and his friend, car manufacturer, Henry Ford – spreads across both sides of a palm-tree lined section of McGregor Boulevard in Fort Myers.

Home where thomas Edison spent his winters to get away from the cold.
Home where Thomas Edison spent his winters to get away from the cold.

The place attracts visitors in the thousands each year, a testament to the world’s ongoing curiosity to find out what environment could have contributed to the men’s incredible successes in science and car manufacturing. There must be a special muse in the air that engenders creativity, right? Be sure to visit to see for yourself.

Dock at Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Dock that leads out to the Caloosahatchee River. Before roads were built, it was the main means of transportation between cities.
A "Joy Perfume" Tree that is native to Mexico.
A “Joy Perfume” Tree that is native to Mexico.

The location is set amidst tropical gardens, and on the land-locked side of the street, it houses Edison’s Botanic Research Lab as well as the Estates’ Museum in which significant artifacts and inventions are displayed. The restored homes of both men are viewable on the side that borders the Caloosahatchee River, and on Henry Ford’s side of the compound, car enthusiasts can also see a collection of his classic automobiles.

The attraction is open daily from 9a.m. – 5:30p.m. Visitors have the option to take either guided, self-guided tours or audio tours.

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Vacation like a celebrity in Nevis!

Nevis, the sister-island to St. Kitts, is a 36 square mile lush and unspoiled slice of paradise. It’s about 217 miles (350 km) east-southeast of Puerto Rico and 50 miles (80 km) west of Antigua.

A tiny island that has more monkey crossings than stop lights, it has attracted, and continues to lure, its fair share of notable visitors. mount nevis

It’s the place where Princess Diana went to escape the media spotlight after her divorce in 1996. In more recent times, the likes of Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Oprah Winfrey, Meryl Streep, Ellen DeGeneres, John Travolta, Beyoncé, Britney Spears and former US President Bill Clinton have visited.

If you are considering Nevis for your next Caribbean vacation, you could be their next A-list visitor!

Below, I’ve shared my suggestions for things to do when you go..

1. Visit the wedding site of Frances “Fanny” Nisbet and Admiral Horatio Nelson

If you’re in the mood to get whimsical, you can visit the wedding place of the decorated British naval officer who has a statue in his honor at London’s famed Trafalgar Square. Nelson and his wife Fanny got married under a silk cotton tree at Montpelier Estate in 1787, shortly before the end of his Caribbean tour of duty.

Entrance to Montepelier Plantation, chains away from the Nelson wedding site
Entrance to Montepelier Plantation, chains away from the Nelson wedding site

2. See the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton

Alexander Hamilton is the man credited with being one of the most influential contributors to the U.S. Constitution. The oceanfront location houses a museum and the local parliament. I found it slightly surreal to walk through that modest looking abode and read about the early history of the man on the face of the US$10 bill.

The humble home that is now part museum, part center of Parliament
The humble home that is now part museum, part center of Parliament

3. Dip your body, arms or toes in the therapeutic Bath Spring

This is a free outdoor “spa” supplied by hot volcanic waters that flow from a hillside. It is reputed to cure numerous aches and pains but be warned, the temperature gets very hot, so tourists are advised not to spend more than 10 minutes at a time soaking up its healing powers.

4. Explore the Botanical Gardens

All nature lovers will like this place because it is hard not to appreciate seeing the array of tropical trees, plants and shrubs that are so lovingly cared for by the efficient yet unobtrusive staff. What’s more, the quiet spaces, the Asian-influenced statues and the fountains make it feel like an oasis that will zap all your stress away.

That bench whispers R&R!
That bench whispers R&R!

5. Get stung by a Killer Bee at the legendary Sunshine’s Bar and Grill

No, that’s not an insect; it’s a simple but powerful signature cocktail that will knock you sideways if it is consumed too quickly. Located on Pinney’s Beach, Sunshine’s is close to Four Seasons Nevis and it is an experience not to be missed.

6. Eat, eat…and eat!

Whether you opt for lunch at Golden Rock, a pre-dinner snack at Banana’s Bistro, a fancy four-course meal at Coconut Grove or simple local fare, just unbuckle your belt and give in 100% to the foodie experience. Simply plan to lose the pounds later because the meals are beyond good. You must try local favorites like the goat water (a thick, meaty soup) and Tanya fritters (made from root vegetables).

Such a pretty lunch venue! What is/was on YOUR plate today?

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7. Tour the old sugar plantations that are now converted into hotels

Once a vibrant industry, sugar production used to be the backbone of the Nevisian economy. Evidence of that is seen in the many sugar mill ruins you’ll see as you drive around the island. Hermitage Plantation, Montpelier Plantation, Nisbet Plantation and Golden Rock Inn, were some of the ones I visited and they each had their own distinctive style.

Hermitage Planatation Great House

8. Finally, no trip to the Caribbean would be complete without a few hours spent lazing on an uncrowded beach

I clocked my sun and sand time at the Paradise Beach Nevis but there are several places to choose from. Go pick out your beach chair and mark your own spot soon!

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Editor’s Notes:

I originally wrote these travel tips for a site I contribute to called TravelDudes. The article first appeared there in August 2015.

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Street food is Cartagena’s best kept secret

I can’t wait to tell you about the day I ate my way through the streets of Cartagena! But first, please give me a minute to stroke my tummy while I reminisce about the explosion of flavors I experienced during that palate-friendly walking tour.

Yum, yum. BURP.

Busy stuffing my hands and face with street goodies. See all those dressings on the side?
Busy stuffing my hands and face with street goodies. See all those dressings on the side?

Even after I booked the excursion, I couldn’t explain what had come over me. I have a very delicate stomach that doesn’t hesitate to let me know when I’ve ingested something that doesn’t go down well. So naturually, I tend to be careful about my food choices when I’m away from home. But all that caution – born of sometimes painful and/or embarrassing repercussions – flew out the window when I visited the vibrant seaport town that dots Colombia’s northern coast.  Cartagena’s fusion of Latin, Caribbean and African cuisines were inspiration enough to defy my fears and make me dive tongue first into the unknown.

The first order of business was taking my probiotic tablet. I gotta keep it teal. My digestive system needs those good bacteria to keep it working like it should!
The first order of business was taking my probiotic tablet. I gotta keep it real. My digestive system needs those small bursts of good bacteria to keep it working like it should!

There was a variety of food carts, trucks and stands scattered throughout the colorful streets of the Walled City and neighboring towns like Getsemani. At almost every corner, vendors sold a wide range of foods that ranged from deep-fried starches to fresh fruit while the locals ignored us tourists and carried on with everyday life.

A domino game in play in Getsemani.
A domino game in play in Getsemani.

And one of the best parts of the experience was the fact that I could relish the delicacies while learning about local culture and folklore.  As far as ambiance goes, eating mango biche while walking past refurbished, colonial-style mansions and admiring multi-hued looms springing from second-floor balcony gardens, wasn’t too bad either.

I started the tour at the Statue of Jose Fernandez by the Plaza Fernandez de Madrid. It was across from The Cocoa and Chocolate Museum.  I just had to pop inside for a little visit before the other members of the group arrived. Cocoa plant

Arepas – These are flatbreads made of white or yellow corn and stuffed with cheese and butter.

Two types of arepas brought to you courtesy pf the local street vendors
Two types of arepas brought to you courtesy of the local street vendors

arepas in the street

Patacones  – As an island girl, I grew up eating friend green plantains accompanied by different proteins for breakfast or supper, but the Colombian version had a different twist to it. They were soaked in a salty, garlic-flavored marinade first, fried to a crispy texture and devoured as the main meal.

See that liquid in the pan to the front? It has the garlic and salt seasoned marinade in it.

Mango Biche – These are thin slices of unripe mango soaked in lime juice and seasonings, prettily displayed like extra-large fries in a cup. It had an unusual flavor; equal parts tarty and savory.

There were so many different fruits for sale all around Cartagena. And they were the fresh, not supermarket-weary variety.
There were so many different fruits for sale all around Cartagena. And they were the fresh, not supermarket-weary variety.

Empanada de huevo – Empanadas are made of corn and stuffed with beef and egg, with a sudeo ( white cream sauce) on top. We learnt these snacks are the scrumptious result of Latin, African, Syrian and Lebanese culinary influences. food container

Matrimonio – once upon a time, a sweet boy named ‘Guava’ met a full-bodied girl named ‘Cheese’ and it was love at first sight.  They hung out, got married, and lived happily ever after. guava and cheese

Chicharron – O.M.G. This pork dish is pure bliss. Crispy on the outside, and flavorful and tender on the inside, it hits the G-spot with every single bite. [Don’t gape at me. I meant G as in gastric!What were YOU thinking?]. I had it with boiled yuca, also known as cassava. Three servings still left me ravenous and yearning for more. Pork belly

pork

Café Mural – I ended the day at a small shop run by David, an engineer who decided to leave his lucrative job in Bogota to pursue his true passion – coffee. The table behind his bar counter looked like a mini science lab. It was stacked with test tubes, multiple-sized measuring cups and other equipment I couldn’t identify. inside cafe

But there was method to what appeared to be his crazy but lovable professor madness. David, whose grandfather owned a coffee farm, lives to experiment with new blends. I don’t drink coffee but the others in my tour group raved about the blends they tasted.  I had a long glass of a mellow chocolate drink that was a fitting end to my day. outside cafe

ARE YOU HUNGRY YET?

Editors notes:

In case you want to do something similar, I booked this tour with Cartagena Connections. Tours last between three to four hours and require a two person minimum. They depart at 2:30 p.m. daily. The cost was $30 when I did it.  With that price, you get to sample about eight items but you’re encouraged to take extra pesos and try anything else that catches your eye.

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What is the brand personality of your favorite airline?

Wing of plane2

Do you book flights based on convenience, cost, points, or the experiences you’ve had with an airline? In many instances, I’m usually the most loyal to my own pocket. So, I’m willing to guess that ticket price ranks high on your checklist as well, right?. But other things such as lost luggage, flight delays, uninformed desk agents, leg room, general customer service, and the ability to get assigned seating affect your decision too, don’t they? All those factors help shape your perception of a brand, and when combined, they also can affect our desire to fly with a specific airline.

As an experiment, I asked diverse groups of people to describe different airlines using adjectives they would attribute to people.  My survey group included friends, former coworkers, and surprised-to-be-quizzed patrons at my hair salon. The exercise was very revealing. Here’s what they said:

American Airlines

It’s stuffy, old, traditional and flaky. They summed up the brand relationship as the type of friendship your parents forced you into as a child (with play dates) but now as adults, they simply found themselves maintaining the status-quo.

Air Berlin

My informal ‘focus group’ members called it methodical and aloof.

Alitalia

The most common adjective used during this discussion was warm.

British Airways

Good ole BA was described as classy, proper and refined. It was likened to a work friend who is reliable and approachable, but not someone you would hang out with voluntarily on the weekend.

Caribbean Airlines

The overwhelming response here was genuine, with a come-what-may attitude. One person actually said it was like the person at school/college who didn’t have to study, went to all the parties, but did okay on exams anyway.

Image source: airlinetaillogos.wordpress.com
Image source: www. airlinetaillogos.wordpress.com

Delta Airlines

Delta was seen as comfortable and friendly, but more of a wall flower who preferred to blend into the background.

Emirates Airline

This response brought out many superlatives like super rich, sumptuous and ultra cosmopolitan. It was described as that friend who is used to a lifestyle filled with luxury, and one who expects excellent customer service at his/her fingertips.

Iberia

I got only one word for this one – friendly.

JetBlue

This name triggered a little animation from everybody. Eyes lit up and they all leaned forward while words like chill, hipster and trendy tumbled from their lips. In the eyes of many, JetBlue was seen as the cool kid who is always friendly and fun.

Spirit Airlines

Shoulders drooped visibly at the mention of Spirit.  Regrettably, its adjectives were very uncomplimentary. They called it unreliable, penny-pinching and the kid who would get picked last for a team sport on the play ground.

United Airlines

The best adjectives people could come up with for United was that it was okay but a bit beaten weathered down.

Virgin Atlantic 

The mention of Virgin sent the energy up in the room quite a bit with talk of its offbeat, fun and hip personality. A few persons admitted they sometimes found it a little over-the-top, but they also were confident they’d have no worries if they had to go out with such a charismatic person.

When asked if they had to pick one airline to hang out with all week-end long, JetBlue and Virgin were neck and neck in terms of responses.  What do you think? Do you agree or disagree with these observations? How would you advise an airline CEO about the best ways to ensure a positive brand image based on your personal travel experiences?

I kept my list short but please tell me your favorite airline, and by all means, share your views on your perception of its brand personality!

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8 Instagram-worthy spots on the southwest coast of Florida

shelling-Captiva island

Recently, I had a blast exploring sections of southwest Florida. I had no idea that Lee County, an area just about 125 miles (201 km) south of Tampa and 115 miles (185 km) west of Fort Lauderdale, had so many unique locations and islands! There are 15 of them, and I was on a self-directed mission to find my favorite.

Much to my amazement, I very quickly realized that was easier said than done because each place that I visited had its own little slice of something special. History, beautiful landscapes, culture, arts, nature…WOW. The unexpected surprises often took my breath away!

I’ll share more with you over time. For now, I’ll just take you on a visual journey.

Edison Ford Estates

Sanibel Island

Cape Harbour

Impossible to ignore a view like this, right? Tap twice if you agree.

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Cayo Costa Island

So, my weekend got off to a running start. How's yours going?

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Captiva Island

Tap twice if you wanna catch a few sunsets with me.

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Matlacha Island (Pronounced Mat-la-shay)

Historic Downtown River District

https://www.instagram.com/p/BF65M1LJsaB/?taken-by=mytravelstamps

Bernie Davis Arts Center

…and this was just the tip of the iceberg.

Feel free to pin this article on your Pinterest boards, if you like!

shelling-Captiva island

 

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A day trip to Guatapé

Do you know what happens when you decide to book a three-night stay in an unknown destination the day before you fly? I’ll tell you. You fervently hope the domestic airline on the receiving end of your purchase click is reliable, then you scramble like a crazy person to finalize your hotel selection and come up with a workable itinerary for sightseeing.

That’s how I ended up in Medellin, Colombia during the time I was scheduled to be solely on vacation in the coastal town of Cartagena with the world’s best travel buddy (my sister). We were zen and totally chilling until we decided it would be cool to use the opportunity to visit another region of the country.

Although I ended up with uncomfortable tummy issues while there, I am glad we did it.

scenery
Scenic countryside on the way to our destination

The first tour we booked was a day trip to the picturesque town of Guatapé. Nestled between curvaceous hills and bordered by debonair lakes, the journey is just under two hours from Medellin.

Our first treat was a food stop to enjoy a traditional Colombian breakfast of hot chocolate, eggs, arepa, cheese and sausage courtesy of a local restaurant called El Rancherito Lo Mejor.

Colombian breakfast of hot chocolate, eggs, empanada, cheese and sausage

The open air setting and bench-styled seating all cleverly positioned around a visible working kitchen added an authentic old-world charm to the experience.

The rustic setting of this restaurant enhanced its laid-back vibe

With sated stomachs, we then drove through scenic countryside that offered up spectacular views of hills and valleys, humble abodes and farms dedicated to different crops.

farms

Soon, we arrived at the town of Marinella, a major cultural center that has been lauded as a place of “stories, guitars and great natural beauty”. The dramatic La Fenix De America monument in the town’s square had everyone on the bus clamoring to get off to take pictures

Dramatic monument in the town's square that is a pivotal point for pictures

After a brief stop to capture the scenery, our bus driver then took us to El Peñol, a small town that had to be relocated after it sunk in the 1960s. Our tour guide said the government had built a hydroelectric dam to supply Medellin and surrounding areas with water but it caused severe flooding in the immediate area. As a result, many buildings were submerged. This picture shows me sitting in a bench before a replica of it.

From there, we boarded a vessel for a relaxing cruise along the Guatapé Reservoir where we saw fishermen passing by in their boats, beautiful mansions perched on the hillsides, and the remains of one of Pablo Escobar’s homes. They also pointed out one formerly occupied by his mother. House of Pablo Escobar

scene on lake in gautape

I also got pulled into an impromptu tourist version of either the vallenato, salsa or merengue. Watch me shake and shimmy like a pro. Riiight!

Lunch went down well in Guatapé at Asados Mi Casita. It was a typical meal of  of beans, chicharron (fried pork belly), plantain, fresh salad and a fried egg. guatpae_meal

I then took a stroll through the cobblestone streets that were reminiscent of Colonial times.

gauatape streets

Shop keepers loitered near their doors, residents went about their daily business and nifty little motochivas zipped up and down the narrow streets. And oh, what a blast of color it was! The vivid buildings made me feel as if I was a guest character in a fun, coloring book.

Many of the lower half of the buildings were adorned with brightly painted “zócalos”. They are murals that depict everyday life. murals on walls

The penultimate stop gave us a chance to climb the world-famous national monument known as La Piedra del Peñol, a giant rock that juts out of the landscape rising to 7000+ feet. Don’t quote me anywhere but to my somewhat warped mind,  I think it resembles an oversized breast punctuated by a very erect nipple if you look at it sideways. Gauatape_el piedra

Attempt the climb only if you are at your fittest. I must say the views at different points along the way are well worth the strenuous 740-step ascent.

richard.pandohie@yahoo.com

_________

Editor’s Notes:

I booked my tour with a company called Tours Guatapé and it cost $69.000 Colombian pesos, inclusive of breakfast and lunch with a Spanish-speaking guide. If you’d like to have English translation, there are no headsets. You must request a bilingual guide ahead of time – at a  premium price. It was nearly three times higher. (Can you guess which option I took? Yup, I depended on my years-old and very rudimentary high school Spanish to make it through the day) Ask for Ale Guia (Spanish speaker) and David (English assistance) as your guides. Also, there is an additional charge to climb La Piedra.

As a side note, given my tummy issues, I’m cautioning you to be careful of the tap water in Medellin. I drank bottled water all the time but I only realized on the second day that the water I asked to be heated for my tea was not boiled. It was tap water put in a cup and heated in a microwave. The next day I was vigilant and asked the kitchen staff to use the water I provided.

Finally, English is not as widely spoken in Medellin as one may expect so please take a dictionary with you or download a foreign language app to assist you with communication.

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Ways to beat boredom on a long-haul flight

If you’ve ever flown on an eight, 10 or 15 hour transatlantic flight, you know that boredom can creep up on you easily. As excited as I get about my trips, let’s get real here, there is a limit to how many movies or television shows I can watch back-to-back. That’s my reality in spite of Netflix’s ardent desire to convert us all into binge-watching addicts.

Besides, laughing animatedly with my travel buddy or even diving deep into an engaging conversation with the passenger sandwiched next to me is not very appealing when everybody within a four-seat radius can hear what we’re saying. And, for most (myself not included), there are only so many book chapters a person can read in one sitting.

We’ve all been there! (Photo credit: graphics20.com)

So what can we do to avoid pulling our hair on those arduous, long-haul flights?  Try one of these suggestions.

Research and practice key words and phrases in the language of the country you will be visiting.

You can do it the old-fashioned way with a pocket dictionary and notepad. Or, you can learn the basics like “hello”, “where is the bathroom”, “how much does this cost”, and “I’d like to order [insert your favorite meals here] via an audio tutorial or with an app – if you have inflight Wi-Fi. No idea which translation app to use? DuoLingo seems to be a popular option.

Here's a quick shopping guide in Italian. (Photo credit: CutureDiscovery.com)
An example of the old-fashioned way: A quick shopping guide in Italian. (Photo credit: CutureDiscovery.com)

Fine-tune your on-the-ground itinerary.

While it’s always good to leave room for spontaneity, I’ve found that some of my best vacations were the ones where I had a clear blueprint of what I wanted to see and do in the destination.

Juts about to start a guided bus tour through the historic streets on Cartagena, Colombia
Giddy with excitement as I’m about to start a guided bus tour through the historic streets on Cartagena, Colombia

Structured activity plans, with room for adjustment, are priceless gems. Guidebooks, bookmarked blog posts, destination websites and TripAdvisor comments are good starting points. They’ll give you multiple ideas for ways to get the most out of your trip.

Complete a few puzzles or play a board game.

Thankfully, we now have many types of puzzles and board games to choose from. There are sliding puzzles, word-search puzzles, anagrams, numerical puzzles and logic puzzles. And my board game lovers, a quick search on Amazon  will yield results showing more than 1700 ways to playfully pass your time during a flight. Also, I just heard about the launch of a new math-based puzzle called Numbrcise  that is laid out like a crossword but it doesn’t use words or phrases as clues. It’s 100 percent number driven. If you’re a math buff, their brain-teasers could keep you occupied for hours.

Be honest, how much time would it take you to solve this?
Be honest, how much time would it take you to solve this?

Organize the photo gallery on your smartphone to get it ready for your sure-to-happen Instagram and Facebook trip snaps.

As a travel blogger, I take random shots all the time because I never know when I’ll need an image for a Twitter chat or a Facebook and Instagram post. Believe me, I always end up with a storage problem.

IG

Yes, I know I can store images in the cloud but I prefer to upload them to my laptop or an external hard drive. The problem is, I hardly ever get around to doing that. That’s why sitting on a plane is perfect for cleaning house. Not only do I have time to delete the images I’ll never really use but I also get to sort and enhance existing photos. Oh, and on the return flight I recommend editing and curating images for sharing with friends and family, or with your online community. My photo editing software of choice is Snapseed.  It works for both iOS and Android phones.

Try airplane yoga!

Until recently, I never even knew that such a thing as a Cat-cow pose at 30,000 feet existed. But according to CNN Travel it does. I found several online articles about the subject and a ton of YouTube instructional videos that show you exactly what to do.

Who says you can't get your zen on inflight? (Getty image)
Who says you can’t get your zen on inflight? Apparently, you can. (Getty image)

See which of these 18 Exercises For Healthy Flying will work for you – and your seatmates. I’m all for avoiding deep vein thrombosis (blood clots) but I sure am NOT down with my neighbor busting out a downward dog in the aisle next to my seat. I’d be like,”Excuse me, please!”

When all else fails, get some sleep.

Have a great flight on your next lift off!

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Why I love traveling with my mom

Have you ever traveled with a parent as an adult? Some people say they don‘t enjoy themselves when they do, but my experience has been the total opposite.

I. Simply. Love. It!

This is how the chips fall with my folks. My Dad is a stay-close-to- home kind of guy, but once the destination forecast says clear skies and good weather, my Mom will have her bag, passport and swimsuit packed in a heartbeat. I know I may be totally biased here, but I think that ready-to-explore at the drop of a hat trait, especially as a senior, is utterly cool.

Easter Monday Beach Lime in Grand Cayman
Easter Monday Beach Lime in Grand Cayman

So here are all the reasons I love traveling with my Mom. [I invite you to share your stories about vacations with your parents at the end of this post.]

Mom ALWAYS has snacks on her. I don’t know how she does it or even when she stashes them in her handbag, but I am absolutely certain I can count on her to have a few save-me-from starvation treats just when I need them most.

She is very low maintenance. I never have to worry about any troubling mood swings, diva-like silences, or loud outbursts when we’re together.

Taking a brief time out in Bimini The Bahamas
Taking a moment to enjoy the calming sea breeze after a dusty and humid walk downtown in Bimini, The Bahamas

We enjoy the same things so planning day excursions is never a hassle. Cultural immersions? We’re both into them. Scenic drives? Oh, yes! Historic and educational tours? Let’s go.

Reading the fine print of the sign next to the four statues in Nobel Square in Cape Town, South Africa

We can read each other like a book so it’s easy to communicate without words, especially in large groups.

She can make friends with almost anybody, and she asks a ton of questions, so I always end up with more local insights when I travel with her.

Quizzing the tour guide on some finer detail of the oral history lesson. Pedro St James, Cayman Islands

For someone who makes no bones about using all her senior citizen privileges at banks and other places of business, she still has a joie de vivre and sense of adventure that is superior to most people 1/3rd her age! 

Camel ride in Egypt
Camel ride in Egypt

She is a ready-made roomie so I can forego paying additional dollars for the single supplement to have my own room on packaged group tours.

I never have to worry about getting all my souvenirs to fit into my luggage for the trip home. I must admit I’ve learned a trick or two over the years but my mom is still the best packer I know.

She’s not shy about taking goofy pictures. Oh, no. I just share my creative vision for a shot and she’ll gladly pose or go behind the camera to snap me.

Playful pictures with Statues in Key West
Grab their suitcase, Mom! [Playful pictures with Statues in Key West]
And finally, at the end of an exasperating or exhilarating day, her hugs are still FREE and they come with no strings attached.

Sunset shot at Table Mountain, South Africa
Sunset shot on top of Table Mountain, South Africa

Can you tell I just LOVE my momma?  I do!