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Author: Mac

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My absolute favorite travel gear

From time to time, people ask me what travel products I use on my trips, so for easy reference, I compiled a shortlist of my go-to items and decided to share them here.

Luggage

I know there are fancier designs and much trendier luggage brands available, but I’ve had my Nautica Open Seas set for at least 8 years, and I love it because none of the 5 pieces has failed me yet! The carry-on, which gets the most use, is light and compact, and holds a ton of stuff (if you use good packing hacks). Another plus is the groovy navy & yellow color combo on the exterior that makes your bag super easy to spot if you ever have to wait at the carousel.

The duffle bag is also a cool bonus, because you can break it down and place it inside your carry-on to use as an extra piece for souvenirs on the return trip. At home, I’ve also used it as a gym bag on a few occasions.

Camera

If you follow me on Instagram, it’s pretty obvious I get more than a little snap happy on vacation. But since I’m just an eager amateur and not a professional, I’ve still got A LOT to learn about photo-taking techniques. Knowing when to switch aperture speeds, change lenses, adjust depth of field to sharpen focus or chase the right lighting to avoid overexposure sounds overwhelming to me. So, listen up. If you catch me in dem tourist streets, don’t expect to see me with a DSLR or mirrorless camera strapped over my shoulder – just yet.  

I guess I should be embarrassed to admit this out loud, but here it comes. I’m still using a compact point-and-shoot Canon PowerShot SX530 HS to frame my shots and learn my best angles!  Yes, you can go ahead and GASP. My three-year-old baby has a 50x zoom lens that shoots images at a 16-megapixel resolution and video at 1080p. It also has integrated Wi-Fi with NFC (Near Field Communication), which allows me to transfer photos to my cell phone with an app.

Tripod

I did a solo trip to Peru for my birthday in 2018, and after years of dreaming about walking through the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, I didn’t want to take the chance of not capturing great shots to preserve the visual memories of my time there. So, what did your girl do? She went out and bought a Sunpak TravelLite Pro Reverse Folding 63′ Tripod (with red accents because she’s extra) and taught herself how to use it!

The irony of the situation though, is that tripods are not allowed at the site. I think they’re considered a possible hazard because of the uneven terrain and huge crowds. But it’s all about tenacity and creativity, right? I converted my tour guide into an able art director and wardrobe assistant for my personal Mapi photo shoot. That’s the name locals call their Wonder of the World.

Smartphone

Other than being extremely useful for communicating with folks back home, figuring out directions in unfamiliar territory, and having access to the internet at your finger tips, my smartphone is a must-have on my trips because it’s a handy camera too.

iPhone lovers, I’m an unapologetic Android devotee, and at the moment, a Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is where it’s at in my book. First of all, the 128 GB in-built storage and up to 512 GB of expandable space through a MicroSD is just bananas. What’s more, the optical lens has a 2x zoom and it’s also well-documented that the pixel detail and low-light photography capabilities are far superior.

The signature S Pen isn’t shabby either! You can use it to control more than seven devices at one time within a 30-feet radius. Think YouTube, Snapchat, Spotify music and your camera app, among others. Check out this IG post to see what I mean.

Bonus item (a gimbal)

This Zhiyun Smooth-Q is brand new to me, and is going to be my new best friend on all my expeditions. It’s a hand-held stabilizer that allows you to use your phone to record non-shaky video. It comes with an inbuilt battery that runs for up to 12 hours and has a standard tripod mount at the bottom. Yaaass! I’m about to say a permanent BYE BYE to wobbly footage. Now, if you don’t have a gimbal already, maybe you can think about getting one, too!

In case you’re wondering, none of the items mentioned in this post is sponsored. I actually use these brands and have been doing so on my own dime for a while – years, in some cases. However, the Amazon product links are affiliated. That means if you click on the product, review it, and then decide to buy something, I have the potential to earn a small (as in tiny) commission from qualifying purchases.

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Master the art of souvenir shopping in 6 easy steps

“Souvenirs? How do you decide what to buy?”

That was one of the questions I received when I polled my Instagram audience to find out what travel-related topics they wanted me to write about.  I’ll be honest, shopping comes so naturally to me I forgot that even the thought of it causes some people major discomfort.  On any given day, hunting for a good deal is fun and relaxing for most of us, but crowds and long lines, indecisiveness about what to get, pushy or patronizing sales people, and the possibility of getting lost while on the hunt for goodies are just some of the turnoffs for others. 

After I imagined how bad the distress could get when panicky, sweaty-palmed shoppers are away from home, in very unfamiliar environments, I realized souvenir shopping is not something to be taken for granted. It’s really an art that needs to be learned and fine-tuned.

If you’re heading on vacation soon and are already starting to worry about what you’ll be able to buy as a keepsake for yourself or aa a gift for someone else, keep calm and keep reading. I’m sharing some ideas to make your next souvenir haul easy.

Avoid the tacky, tired stuff

Every destination has its tourist trap markets and shops where you’re guaranteed to get the same Made in China t-shirts, tote bags, fridge magnets, mugs, and key rings that you’ll see in the next place you visit – just with a different city or country name. So, check all product labels before being sweet-talked into purchasing anything. Please, when the doubts creep in, do yourself a huge favor and walk away politely AND quickly. Don’t fall for the innovative pitches!

Go in search of authentic local art and craft

The increasing global demand for ‘cheap and fast’ has led to a thriving market for fake and subpar goods which negatively impacts the revenues of home-grown artisans who work very hard to produce hand-crafted items. I believe it’s important to support local workmanship whenever possible because local artists pass along irreplaceable craft-making traditions and customs from one generation to the next, and they use the income they get from their daily sales to support their families. If you’re not sure where to look, ask your taxi driver, bellman or waiter for non-tourist spot suggestions. Try to have them steer you in the direction of places where you can see painters at work, seamstresses at their machines, wood workers carving figurines in real-time, or jewelers making custom pieces.

Tap into the music scene

Even though we live in a world of digital downloads and streaming, there are still some people who value owning CDs and even vinyl records, which are mostly collectors’ items these days. For example, the Dutch are known for electronic dance music, Trinidad is home to calypso and pan, and you can’t leave Brazil without hearing samba. So, picking up an original record or a compilation CD of some of the top artists from each country’s genre is a no-brainer if you know someone who is into music.

Consider buying fabric

Trips to places in Africa, Peru, India and others create wonderful opportunities to bring back colorful fabrics and textiles that can be converted into beautiful pieces of clothing and/or unique accessories that will be long-term reminders of the destination.  As examples, think of Kente cloth in Ghana, woven Tartan fabrics that can be traced to family clans in Scotland, Indian khadi, bayeta wool in Peru and the bright, hand-painted textiles that are used in Japan to make glamourous-looking kimonos.

Start a collection

When in doubt, it’s usually a sure bet to purchase items that will enable the receiver of your gift to start a collection. Things that are small and easy to transport such as currency notes or coins, miniature flags, shot glasses and locally produced, travel-sized liquor are great places to start.

Opt for practical items

If all else fails, you can always fall back on practical items that aren’t likely to go unused. Some ideas include locally made soap, massage oils, spoon rests, salt and pepper shakers, and Christmas ornaments.

A few other notes:

Please conduct thorough research ahead of your trip or ask pointed questions when you’re in destination to ensure you know the import/export rules, allowances and fines. Also, try not to purchase anything that even hints at unethical production or looks like it is being sold illegally. Trust me, from the streets of New York to Paris, it happens, so if something looks or feels shady, trust your gut.

Also, try to avoid taking ‘mementos’ from treasured monuments or ancient ruins and anything like seashells with live creatures inside. In addition, it’s always a good idea to shy away from buying animal products as you never know if you could be contributing to the endangerment of rare species or putting your hard-earned money into the hands of poachers.

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Save on baggage fees with these packing tips from a carry-on pro

Did you know that U.S. airlines made almost $5 billion in baggage fees in 2018? Yes, you read that right! The U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics data shows that airlines have been out there raking in major $$$ from chronic (or unsuspecting) over packers for years. With extra pieces costing at least US$50 a pop on most carriers, that means travelers have been throwing away money that could have been easily redirected into more positive memory-making transactions. Seriously, that’s cash that could have been spent on things like new travel gear, unique dining experiences, additional room nights and extra days spent exploring somewhere cool.

Makes you wonder what the figure for the global airline haul was, huh? Well, I don’t know about you, but it doesn’t really matter to me. Because I’m not about that life.

I work too hard to collect my bi-weekly coins to be throwing them away paying for heavy or extra luggage that I’m going to end up schlepping around miserably anyway. Real talk: If you have to move from city to city, use public transportation, or climb stairs a few times during your trip, all that extra load can be cumbersome!

That, coupled with not liking to wait around for bags on the carousel, is why I’ve learned to pack my life in a carry-on, folks! By utilizing some of these tips, I’m rooting for you to do the same.

Take a good, hard look at your travel bag

Your road to baggage fees freedom often starts with investing in sturdy, lightweight luggage. Sometimes the extra weight is caused by the bags, not you! The older the suitcase, the greater the likelihood that the frame is heavier than the current norm. So, even though you may love the vintage suitcase Dulcimina you have, I encourage you to do some research on the multiple lightweight options that are now available.

Wear or carry your heaviest items

Bulky items like winter coats, jackets, sneakers and boots take up much needed space and weigh a lot. So, since I’m always cold anyway, I always wear my heaviest shoes and sweaters in airports and carry my winter jacket over my arm until I need to put it on.

Plan an interchangeable wardrobe

Have a loose idea of the things you want to see and do while away and plan your outfits accordingly.  Never pack everything you take out of your closet on the first go-round. Also, color coordinate pieces so you can mix and match a bunch of blouses or shirts with a few bottoms, which are usually the weightier items. Lastly, it never hurts to throw in one or two pieces that transition well from day to night, when nicely accessorized.

Roll, rather than fold

There are differing opinions on this technique due to potential wrinkling, but in my experience, clothes that are rolled take up less space and they fit better into all the nooks and crannies of your bag. You know, like those rounded corners or awkward spaces between the support bars down at the bottom? The key to overcoming rumpling is sticking to fabrics like polyester, knits, rayon, fleece, spandex and other microfiber material that don’t wrinkle easily. Or, if you’re into cotton and linens like me, just mentally commit to a one-time mass use of your hotel iron when you get to your destination.  

Don’t be too random

Order matters! Always put the heaviest items like shoes and full-length jeans at the bottom, and closest to the area where the wheels will be when the bag is standing upright. You can also maximize space by filling shoes and hollow items like water bottles with smaller items like socks, jewelry, travel-sized toiletries, and clean underwear.

I know a lot of travel bloggers swear by packing cubes and they look cool, but I’ve never used them. I get that they help you compress items so you can fit more into your bag, but I often wonder if that doesn’t lead to excess weight – the very issue I’m trying to avoid to begin with. If you’ve used packing cubes and they’ve helped you, please tell me all about it in the comments below.

BONUS TIPS

And as a bonus for reading this far, if you feel you aren’t ready to embrace the carry-on life just yet, you can still save on baggage fees by:

Paying for additional bags online

It’s cheaper than doing it at the airport ticket counter.

Joining frequent flyer programs that include complimentary bags based on elite status

Depending on your loyalty level and your destination, you can sometimes get bags checked for free. With American Airlines’ AAdvantage, for example, if you have Executive Platinum, oneworld® Emerald or are active U.S. military with ID on personal travel, you can get up to three bags checked at no additional cost. Delta SkyMiles Medallion members are also eligible for complimentary checked bags when traveling within the United States and Canada.

Using branded airline credit cards

Now, I’m always gonna be a strong advocate for reducing the number of credit cards in your wallet, but if you don’t have one already, consider looking into a card being offered by your favorite airline. Many of them – crazy annual fee notwithstanding – include perks that allow for complimentary checked bags.  The JetBlue Plus Card, Gold Delta SkyMiles® Card from American Express, Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card, and the United Explorer Card are just a few examples.

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Why you must experience these 5 foodie destinations at least once in your lifetime

Some people say the best way to know a city or country is to eat your way through it, because food has a way of bringing people together and is a compelling expression of culture. It’s no secret that spices, cooking methods and traditional dishes get passed down from one generation to the next and help carve out distinct or blended identities. So what people eat, how they purchase and prepare it, who they dine with, and their established customs around things like mealtimes and food etiquette combine to help tell unique stories.

“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay home.”  – James A. Michener

While I don’t consider myself a true foodie, and I’m now grudgingly savvy enough to know vacation calories DO count, a girl’s still gotta eat for nourishment, right? Some of my most memorable trips would have been incomplete had I not consumed more than my fair share of gelato and pizza in Italy, oxtail and Malva pudding in South Africa, crawfish and gumbo in NOLA, pisco sour and ceviche in Peru, and chicharrón (fried pork belly) in Colombia. 

“Food makes travel so exceptional, because you get to taste what it is actually supposed to taste like. To eat the real Pad Thai or finally have a proper curry is pretty amazing.” – Meghan Markle.

Now savor that thought while I roundup my top 5 foodie destinations.

[Sidebar: If you want to read more about other things I did in any of these places, you can click on the name of the city or country.]

New Orleans

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxLByM-BE-u/

Oooh, chile. From beignets to pralines to jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish, crispy fried chicken and everything in between, I can’t adequately describe the NASCAR type rush of serotonin that shoots through your brain after the first bite. I kid you not. The reaction time is like zero to 100 in two seconds flat. Serotonin unleashes naturally occurring chemicals that contribute to our general feelings of wellbeing and happiness, and there’s absolutely no denying the fact that the food in Nawlins makes you VERY happy! Be prepared to lean back and undo your belt, while you mentally buckle up to experience multiple firework-esque foodgasms. 

Cartagena

https://www.instagram.com/p/BxKpD9TAnb2/

I’ll be the first to admit that my palate may have been partial to Cartagena’s fusion of Latin, Caribbean and African cuisines because I’m Jamaican. But even if it wasn’t, I’m still sure the food was amazing because everyone else I met there said so too.  You can opt for upscale dining if you want to, but I explored the street food scene, and even everyday dishes like arepas, empanadas, patacones (deep-fried green plantains), fresh fruits and chicharrón were divine.

Italy

https://www.instagram.com/p/Btx4EScFheg/?igshid=us16uzsiiux7

There’s a reason Italians coined the phrase la dolce vita.  Having completely mastered the concepts of sweetness and the art of taking-your-time-over-food, I wouldn’t be surprised if they also invented the modern-day equivalent: livin’ your best life. If you value having your meals prepared with only the freshest ingredients, pretty much any region in Italy will be right for you. What about getting to enjoy a good glass of wine over dinner? You can put a big smiley face beside that criterion too. And if a mindset that fiercely protects the sanctity of family time, friendship and fellowship is important to you, Italy will serve up your triple pleasure.

Peru

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwAOF02heEX/

If you don’t put much weight on anything else that I say in this post, trust me on this one. There’s a reason Peru was named Best Culinary Destination in the World for six years in a row (from 2012-2017) by the World Travel Awards. As one UK Telegraph writer puts it, “its cuisine is madly fashionable.” However, what is not as well-known is that “Peruvian food is not just about the Lima restaurant scene with its fabulous fusions and experiments, but also the richly varied traditions of the Pacific coastal strip, the Amazon jungle and the Andes.”

When I was there in 2018, one of my tour guides said they had such a large variety of cuisines and dishes you could go out to eat for three years straight without repeating the same meal.

Cape Town

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwRWpNTBm5c/

As someone of African descent, I guess it goes without saying that I would appreciate being able to eat different varieties of the grains, yams, beans and slow-cooked stews typical of food I grew up on. But when I tried other combination dishes that the Dutch, British and other nationalities brought to the table over many years of interwoven histories, my taste buds almost ended up packing their own oversized suitcase to stuff it all in. In Cape Town, you can literally go on a global epicurean journey by moving from one dining establishment to the next.

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What have been some of your favorite foreign food experiences? I hope you’ll share some of your stories with me below in the comment section

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9 Safety tips for solo female travelers

Over the years, I’ve talked to a bunch of friends, family members and colleagues about my solo jaunts, and those conversations have made me realize safety is THE biggest concern for women considering taking a trip on their own. Now, while rational fear of the unknown is understandable, I think the debilitating dread that keeps some people in a perennial state of inertia can be avoided. In my experience, reaching for your dreams involves pushing through your fear, not caving into it.

So, if you’re reading this and anxiety is holding you back from taking that dream trip alone, don’t let it! The best moments and memories happen when opportunity meets preparation.  If you’re feeling scared or uncertain about making that reservation, don’t worry, I ‘ve got you.  Below are 9 simple safety tips to help you prepare for your first solo getaway.

1. Do your homework ahead of the trip.

Spend time researching destinations by surfing the internet to find news and travel articles about the safest neighborhoods and modes of transportation in each.  Being aware of things like local dress codes and customs in advance of arrival helps you to be better equipped as well.

2. Try to arrive in your destination during daylight hours.

Plan to do this if you’re visiting someplace new, and especially if you don’t speak the local language. Things like signage visibility, distance and depth perception change after dark, all of which can impact your ability to follow directions and your ease of mobility. Also, sometimes service counters at airport or city information desks go on skeletal shifts or are not manned after regular business hours, which means it’s harder to ask questions of designated officials.

3. Do not be penny wise and pound foolish.

That’s a very British Commonwealth way of saying ‘stop yourself from penny pinching’ for the rock-bottom, cheapest accommodation if the location or building gives you the creeps when viewing it online (or when you get there). To help with place selection, avoid looking at hotel videos or images only. Use traveler-sourced photos and reviews on sites like TripAdvisor and YouTube too, and check others like HotelTonight if you need to make an on-the-spot booking change.

4. Pack a doorstop alarm or door wedge to secure your room.  

Since reading about one woman’s horrific attack in her locked hotel room, this precaution will be a 2019 addition for me, for sure. Whether you’re staying at an Embassy Suites, a 5-star property, or an Airbnb, you never really know how many people have access to your room key or how foolproof the deadbolt is. If you can take anything that prevents the door from opening inwards or gives you fair warning that someone is trying to enter, it’s worth the extra investment in my book.

If you’re not sure where to start looking for one, don’t worry. I wasn’t either. Thankfully, two gadgets came highly recommended from a FaceBook group of frequent travelers I’m a part of. The first is a called a Door Jammer, and the other one is a Wedge Door Stop. You can click on the images below to find them on Amazon, and the great thing is, neither of them is priced to break the bank!

5. Always be observant of your surroundings.

Even though you’re checking things out on the sly, walk around confidently, not tentatively, and with a sense of purpose. Most crooks are looking for easy targets and can sense fear.

6. Try to blend in.

Dress modestly so as not to attract undue attention. If your GPS or directional apps don’t work without WIFI or data, try not to pull out maps that mark you as a tourist in public locations. Write out directions before you leave your hotel instead. Also, join day tours when you can to sightsee within the safety net of a small group.

7. Know when to stop sipping those margaritas and martinis dah-lings.

Not going overboard with your alcohol intake is a good guideline for life in general, but it is even more important for a woman on vacation alone. A good night out is a good night out. However, it’s no secret that excessive drinking clouds our judgment and weakens our reflexes, which makes us vulnerable.

8. Avoid posting to social media in real-time. 

In this world of prolific social sharing, I know this might be the hardest bit of advice to swallow, but it just might be one of the most crucial ones to know. To a certain extent, Facebook check-ins and live Instagram Stories are like flashing neon lights. Think about it. If you’re by yourself and are tagging your exact location in real-time, anybody with a phone or device attached to the internet can find you and show up where you are.  Wait a day or two to post that picture at your favorite attraction or restaurant find, and if you absolutely must show your friends how much fun you’re having, tag the country only, not the exact city or hotel you’re in.

9. Leave a copy of your itinerary with someone trustworthy.

And check in regularly with a family member of friend at home. I always give my family a list of my flights and the hotels I’m staying when I take off alone. Also, I don’t have an international phone plan, but I only stay at hotels with free WIFI so I can hop on WhatsApp to call or text home FREELY and REGULARLY.

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I hope these tips help alleviate some of your fears. But if they didn’t, you can read this related article for more inspiration: The benefits of traveling solo.

Disclaimer: The Amazon product links included in this post are affiliated, which means I have the potential to earn a tiny commission from qualifying purchases.

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Bad travel habits we all need to break right now

I was scrolling through the feed of a Facebook group I’m a part of and the topic of bad travel habits came up. Other than being a hilarious insight into some of the shenanigans people get up to while traveling, the discussion thread was also an eye-opener because I realized that I, too, have been guilty of some of the faux pas mentioned.  We all know some of this oh-no-you-didn’t behavior isn’t optimal, so why do we insist on doing it?

Huh? What’s that? Do I hear some of you saying, “Because it feels so, so good?”

Riiiight. Tell you what, go through this list and then tell me in the comment section which ones ring true for you.

Ballin’ on a budget

Unless you’re making and/or banking six or seven figures a year (which many of us are not), you have no business throwing bills around like you do. I’m here to tell you from experience that the ‘you only live once (YOLO), so I’m going to treat myself like a king/queen’ mentality has limits. What’s more, all those over tip, over shop, and over indulge yourself tendencies? They add up. Plus, oooh chile, you better believe the credit card statements come back to haunt you when you get home!

Doing it for the ‘Gram

Okay, so I love Instagram just as much as the next person, but the excessive risk I see some people taking to get the perfect shot is plain nuts.  There’s no need to dangle off the edge of a cliff to get a good view. And no, climbing to the top of the restricted area of a skyscraper will not make you famous for the right reasons. Neither is it cool. Please be wise. People are literally falling off buildings, buffs, ledges of waterfalls and more with tragic consequences. So, before you let the daredevil inside you slip out, rein it in one more minute and ask yourself this: is my life worth one photo?

Overpacking

I’m pretty sure that at some point in time, we’ve all seen passengers bogged down by outrageously, super-sized luggage on group trips, or had to wait behind someone at the check-in counter who was forced to deftly negotiate the terms of his/her extra weight fee. If you are a chronic over packer reading this now, don’t despair. First, invest in a sturdy carry-on bag.  Then note the golden rule when packing is: when in doubt, leave it out.  Think about what you might want to do at your destination; make a checklist of what you think you’ll need, not just want; plan to mix and match pieces; and roll, not fold your clothes.

Binge eating (and drinking)

There’s no denying that trying new foods is one of the highlights of travel, but a healthy desire to indulge in the local culinary scene is no excuse for around-the-clock drinking or eating of everything and anything in sight. For example, the gelato in Italy is unlike any I’ve tasted anywhere else in the world. However, having a gelato a day for five or 10 days straight might not be the best idea. Neither is snacking non-stop on salty or sweet foods on a lengthy plane ride or road trip.

All-inclusive newbies, I’m talking to you too! If it’s your first time rocking the leave-your-wallet-at-home lifestyle, you’ve got to ease yourself into the all-you-can-eat buffet lines and skip the bar stool and free drinks before noon. Having a queasy stomach (or the runs) on vacation isn’t the most desirable thing in the world. Trying too many foods all at once, or subscribing to the raise your glass, it’s five o’clock somewhere in the world mantra is a sure way to send you rushing back to your room.

Remember, it’s not about eating just to eat. We should be eating to tantalize our taste buds, broaden our palate, and enjoy different cultural dining experiences.

Not staying hydrated

Every cell, tissue, and organ in our bodies depends on water to function properly, so drinking fluids is crucial to staying healthy – at home and abroad. While alcoholic beverages, beer, sodas and juices all have some water content, there is no substitute for plain H2O.  Err on the side of caution, and buy bottled water if the tap water is deemed unsafe. Or go one step further and take a reusable water bottle so you can fill up regularly from trusted sources and reduce plastic waste.

Throwing caution to the wind

If you’re pretty street savvy and cautious in your home community, it makes no sense to throw caution completely out the window when you go into vacation mode. Yes, living a life completely dictated by reserve can be boring, but it’s best to take calculated risks. I’m sure I’m not the only one who remembers a childhood of grown folk saying, “It’s better to be safe than sorry,” over and over again. In fact, when being admonished back home in colorful expressions only a Jamaican would understand, it may have sounded more like, “Fire deh a mus-mus tail him tink a cool breeze.”

But I digress. If you wouldn’t hitchhike on your own highway or main road, don’t do it when you’re away. And of course, if you don’t walk around with flashy jewelry or display expensive phones and/or camera equipment when alone in public, don’t even think about it on foreign soil.

Now, I’m going to be nice and not talk about the armrest hogs on airplanes, incessant talkers (who can’t get the earplugs or book in hand hint), or persons who pull out pungent foods at the start of a long-haul flight.

Heyyy! All I’m sayin’ is …No. Just, no.

That is all. What other bad travel habits would you add to this list?

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7 Not-to-be-missed activities in Curaçao

Color in Curacao


Curaçao’s natural beauty, diverse cultural heritage, historic landmarks, flavorful restaurants, beaches, and multilingual population makes it one of the most arresting, value-driven destinations in the Caribbean.  Even though the country is a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, it’s it’s only about 40 miles away from Venezuela, and flights to this Dutch Antilles island are only two hours and 50 mins from Miami.

This past January, my family and I saw economy roundtrip airfares going for US$178 on Norwegian Air that just couldn’t be beat. So, we did what any budget travelers would do – booked a trip and had a blast. If Curaçao is on your to-do list, here are some activities you should try not to miss.

Enjoy an evening of jazz at the Kura Hulanda Village & Spa

If you’re in Willemstad on a Friday night, head over to this restored village in the Otrabanda section of town to enjoy the music of a local jazz band. The resort serves an affordable wok buffet in a pleasant, outdoor setting while you sing along to the sweet melodic sounds of classics such as When I Fall in Love (Nat King Cole), Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Baby (Barry White) and Georgia on My Mind (Ray Charles). Jazz fans, prepare to be blown away.

Explore historic Willemstad

From the moment you start crossing the island’s iconic Queen Emma’s Bridge (the oldest and longest pontoon bridge in the world) to enter Punda, you’ll be besotted with its picturesque waterfront strip. Locally referred to as Handelskade, which means Merchant’s Wharf, it’s a vibrant nod to the country’s Dutch legacy. The area houses offices and retail businesses in 18th century buildings similar to the ones you’ll see dotting Amsterdam canals. There’s one startling difference, though. A kaleidoscope of color!

Stop at the tourist information booth and talk to the local rep, then grab a map and take a self-guided walking tour of the capital. Points of interest include the floating market, Pietermaii District (one of the most photogenic spots you can find anywhere), outdoor cafés, shops filled with crafts and souvenirs, and two giant-sized installations: one that says Curacao, and another that spells Dushi, a local expression meaning ‘sweet’ or ‘nice’.

Visit Rif Fort

Rif Fort was built at the entrance of the St. Anna Bay in the 1900s to protect the city from pirates and enemies. Once guarded with 5-foot-thick coral wall and 56 cannons, it prided itself on being bombproof, aloof and insular. Today, it has been transformed into a welcoming place for visitors who can appreciate a variety of dining and shopping experiences set amidst an historic venue. In addition to good food, good views and good vibes, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers nightly entertainment Thursday through Saturday. On your way there, you can peruse the artisan craft market, ask to join a friendly domino game among the locals usually taking place near the taxi stands, or simply stand back and watch the action unfold.

Try local foods

Since food is one of the best ways to experience a new culture – and Curaçao’s cuisine is a tasty mix of Dutch, Afro-Caribbean, Spanish and Indonesian influences – you can’t leave town without trying a few local favorites. Arepa, which is made of corn but looks like a puffier version of pita bread, is a popular dish with different fillings. Stoba, their name for hearty stews made with various combinations of meat and vegetables, is another one.  Goat stew (kabritu) is the most common, and if you’re looking for the truly authentic stuff, go to Miss Yvonne’s stall at the food court in the Marsche Bieuw market in Willemstad.  Other notable dishes include ayaka (meat tamales wrapped in banana leaves), bitterballen (meatballs), sult (pickled pigs ears and feet), fish tacos, cactus soup, and okra soup.

For drinks, other than the obvious Blue Curaçao Liqueur, you have to try a batido, which is a delicious fruit shake that doubles as a smoothie.  In most places you select which fruit combinations you want, and the vendors add condensed milk and sugar to it. I heard there’s a food truck in Punda called 100% Batidos that sells these yummy fruit concoctions, but I opted for the healthier option – without the added sweetness – so I went to La Bohème for all-natural goodness instead. I left obsessed…and satisfied!

Sip cocktails at the super trendy Saint Tropez Ocean Club

While Saint Tropez Ocean Club is a good seaside spot to watch the sun slip below the horizon any day of the week, it is THE place to be on a Friday night. Because it’s where all the cool, beautiful and well-dressed people hang out. The owners ensure loyal patronage by offering two Happy Hours; one from 6-7 p.m. and another from 9-10 p.m., with most drinks going for half the price. And DJs turn the place up by enthusiastically spinning dance tunes from 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.  Guys, be sure to pack some linen shirts and khakis for this joint. Ladies, you better throw in some cute dresses, too.

Go on an island tour

We didn’t rent a car for this trip, so we booked a seven-hour island tour with Peter Trips to see some more of the island. Stops along the way included a visit to The Liqueur Factory, Boca Tabla (an underground cavern in Shete Boka National Park), the Salt Lakes of Jan Kok (where we saw flamingos), Knip Beach, and Westpunt where we had lunch. We also drove through Punda and the Scharloo District, and the Spanish Water area.

Beach hop

Lastly, with more than 38 public beaches and five private ones to choose from, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you left the country without visiting a few of them. From downtown, it’s easy to hop on a local bus and get to Mambo Beach, which is just four miles to the south. Expect a white-sand shoreline, cabanas, many on-site amenities like restaurants and a volleyball court, and crystal blue waters. It costs US$2 to get there plus an entrance fee of about $3.50 to swim. Beach chairs are at an additional cost. Other coveted sections of prime, sandy real estate include Playa Kalki, Klein Knip, Cas Abao, Jan Thiel, and Blue Bay beach.

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6 Fabulous boutique hotels around the world

What’s your preferred accommodation style? Big-box brand hotels or lodgings with more uniqueness and personality? This is a non-judgment zone, of course, as there is no wrong or right answer. Personally, I’d rather stay at a small, personalized property with local flavor than at a high-rise, chain hotel that offers cookie-cutter amenities and experiences.

Apparently, I’m not alone. The Highland Group recently came out with a 2018 Boutique Hotel Report saying it was a $15 billion segment of the hotel industry in 2017, and it’s still growing.

If you’re a curious and courageous traveler who is always on the lookout for unexpected discoveries that are the antithesis of tried-and-true chain hotel experiences, this My Travel Stamps Approved List could be just right for you.

Cartagena, Colombia: Allure Chocolat by Karisma Hotels & Resorts

This is a 34-room city hotel conveniently located near all the action and within a 5-minute walk to the Walled City. The rooms are small, but contemporary and chic, and they feature either city or waterfront views. One particularly delightful part of your stay is that at check-in you get to select a fragrance from their Aromatherapy & Pillow Menu that will be used in your room. A nicely stocked mini-bar that includes Jose Cuervo rum and their onsite full-service restaurant, Red Knife, that’s run with a farm-fresh philosophy, are also cool factors.  

Lima, Peru: Hotel de Autor

This Miraflores area property has four bedrooms that, as one Travel + Leisure article put it, are “individually designed, mixing vintage artifacts with contemporary furnishings.” Its dining room is a converted garage, and it has a small rooftop garden area and terrace where you can relax after a busy day of sightseeing.  The absolute best things about this property are its claw-foot tubs, the short walking distance to many shops and restaurants (including those in the famous Larcomar Shopping Center), and the attentiveness of the staff. Miguel Payet was my point person and he was amazing.

Hoedspruit, South Africa: Waterbuck Game Lodge

Part of the Thornybush Collection, Waterbuck Game Lodge is a private, four-suite safari lodge nestled next to a watering hole on a reserve that is home to colorful birds, monkeys and diverse wildlife. Ideally suited for couples, families or small groups of up to eight people, guests can enjoy facilities that were designed to blend into the natural environment and provide maximum opportunities for rest and relaxation. Their rooms feature en-suite bathrooms AND outdoor showers, a cozy library with a fireplace, and a private patio for game viewing. What’s more, there’s a breakfast deck overlooking the estuary, and the bonfire style meal on your first night is not just delish, it’s dreamy!

Playa del Carmen, Mexico: Magic Blue Boutique Hotel

Literally only steps from the happening 5th Avenue, this tropical oasis somehow manages to sneak 44 elegant and minimalist rooms into the heart of a busy city without you realizing you’re that close to traffic and civilization. No, I’m not kidding. The ambiance is that serene! You get champagne as a welcome drink, and there’s a small spa on-site that offers daytime massages and treatments like shiatsu and reflexology. While not on the beach, a stylish pool and poolside bar provide the often sought-after water respite, and guests get access passes to trendy beach clubs only three blocks away.

Saint Kitts & Nevis: Paradise Beach Nevis

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If this 5-star boutique villa resort is good enough for Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his family, I figure it is good enough for us too, right? Built on one of the most unspoiled islands in the Caribbean, this property now offers five brand-new beach houses in addition to the seven exquisitely designed three- and four-bedroom villas it launched with in 2015. British designer Naomi Cleaver used wood grains, crisp white linens, and carefully selected accents to invoke a feeling of vintage glamour in the two-bedroom houses. And it’s a fitting complement to New York based designer Adam Tihany’s villa décor which was inspired by a sophisticated blend of Balinese and Caribbean culture. And that isn’t all. In addition to these idyllic surroundings, private chefs are available on request for preparing in-home meals and conducting cooking tutorials.

Irish Town, Jamaica: Strawberry Hill Resort

Perched 3,100 feet above sea level in the cool hills of Saint Andrew, this picturesque getaway is a nature lovers enclave of 13 Georgian-style cottages that have heated beds, plank floors, vaulted ceilings and French doors that lead to private balconies offering either jaw-dropping views of Kingston or surrounding mountains. Local meals can be enjoyed at the restaurant, which overlooks a scenic infinity pool. And the bar, where Red Stripe and Appleton flow freely, used to be frequented by global music icons like Bob Marley and the Rolling Stones for creative inspiration, revitalization and renewal. It was there that Bob found refuge in the 1976 when a failed attempt was made on his life. You can also visit Island Record’s (and hotel owner) Chris Blackwell’s legendary Gold Room that displays platinum and gold records of Bob Marley and The Wailers’ albums. Plaques of other musicians like U2 and Mellisa Etheridge who were once signed to Island, are also proudly exhibited on the walls. 

Have you ever stayed at a boutique hotel? If not, it’s time to try it. Believe me, they’re a whole mood!

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Is it time to add new chapters to the Black History story? Yes, please!

Each February, the U.S. observes Black History Month to celebrate the achievements of African-Americans and the central role they played in shaping the country’s history.  But when I thought of planning a quick weekend trip and turned to Google to identify inspiring things to do and see during the period, I found myself stuck. 99% of the searches returned results based on visiting museums, historical sites, and memorials dedicated to either revisiting the horrors of slavery or documenting the painful struggle to end segregation.

Slavery happened. It is an important part of our collective history. And in no way, shape or form am I advocating for it to be sugar-coated. Nor do I want the selfless and tireless work of great civil rights leaders and activists like Martin Luther King Jnr. and Harriet Tubman to ever be downplayed or forgotten.

However, I found myself wondering why I couldn’t find more comprehensive listings of tours, sites, locations and experiences that paid homage to other aspects of the black experience and culture.  Of course, the Smithsonian’s new National Museum of African-American History and Culture and the U.S. Civil Rights Trail are powerful entities that provide valuable context to the post 1960s socio-economic and political landscape. But when all is said and done, the African-American story isn’t one-dimensional.

Where is the curated list of museums showcasing the work of black inventors, researchers, educators, and scientists? There must have been prolific thinkers other than the late, great George Washington Carver.

Which galleries and libraries nationwide house the paintings, sculptures and books of our most talented creatives, and which urban or metropolitan cities boast epic street art sure to be a draw for photo enthusiasts?

Is there an app or guide travelers can use to pinpoint the performance venues, cocktail bars, and clubs that nurture black dancers, actors, musicians, and spoken word artistes? And where do epicureans looking to join a food tour or dine on soul-infused meals go to find culinary delights prepared by outstanding black chefs or skilled, home-taught cooks? Does a list of black-owned hotels, tour operators and attractions in America exist anywhere?

Even with multiple mouse clicks, I kept coming up with slim pickings.

Next year, I’d love to be able to share a good mix of itinerary suggestions that pay tribute to the full tapestry of textures that form the African-American narrative. Let’s work together to crowdsource that dream list, shall we?  And whatever the outcome, we’ll let the public know it’s available year-round.

Please share at least one relevant place, activity or experience below. Thank you!

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6 Instagram accounts to follow for travel inspiration in 2019

Pool at Tensing Pen_Negril

Need some travel inspiration in 2019?  The Instagram feeds of these black female travelers are guaranteed to light a fire in your belly to get up off your couch and go explore the world. But before you click follow, be warned: you’re also likely to catch a serious case of wanderlust envy!

@thecatchmeifyoucan

https://www.instagram.com/p/BrsHlyuhK7u/

Jessica Nabongo is a go-getter millennial on a quest to be the first black woman to travel to all 195 UN member countries and observing states, including the Vatican and Palestine. Born in Michigan to Ugandan immigrants, she left her six-figure pharmaceutical job with Pfizer to wander the globe in her 20s, and she hasn’t looked back since. She says capturing scenes from everyday life is her favorite thing to do because sharing an honest portrayal gives dignity and humanity to the people living in the countries she visits. That single-mindedness of purpose helps her to highlight aspects of a place that many other photographers often overlook or simply miss.

@spiritedpursuit

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bnes-FVhJob/

Lee Litumbe is the talented creative behind Spirited Pursuit, an online brand dedicated to the enthusiastic pursuit of travel, adventure, and new cultural experiences. She was raised in the US, but is Cameroonian by birth, and she decided to quit her corporate finance job to move back to the motherland so she could travel deep within the African continent. In her view, Africa needed more Africans to showcase all the beauty it has to offer. And she’s right.  There’s so much more to the world to see than Europe, Southeast Asia and The Americas!@

@asiyami_gold

https://www.instagram.com/p/BjdEbD6FBaJ/

Asiyami, who has Nigerian heritage, started her Instagram account when she was 21 because she was drawn to images of an aesthetically pleasing and beautiful lifestyle but realized she couldn’t find many people online that looked like her. Seeing the platform as a place where she could help shape the narrative, Gold set out to create a feed that gave a different perspective to women of color. Now, a mere six or seven years later, this visual storyteller, artist, photographer, and artistic creator is an established player in a constantly evolving industry.

@islandgirlintransit

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bni-_BQn9Mw/

Aisha Sylvester is an island girl from Trinidad and Tobago who is just as comfortable navigating busy city streets as she is rounding up cattle on a Midwestern farm. Her trips have taken her to long-haul destinations like the Czech Republic and Budapest, in addition to ones closer to home like Grenada and the San Blas Islands of Panama. Last year, she started a new series on her blog called Island Girls in Transit to inspire other Caribbean women to follow their own wanderlust dreams. Subscribe! It’s a really cool way to get to know another group of great female travelers.

@jetsetsarah

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bqr4NxiAMpn/

Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon is a Miami-based travel writer who “ventures to the beach and beyond to share the diverse culture, lifestyle and people of the world’s favorite warm-weather destinations.” Her work has been featured in top-tier travel publications like Travel + Leisure, Brides, Martha Stewart Weddings, and The Telegraph, but she’s still very much a down-to-earth person. Showcasing the Caribbean is her top passion, and she does it vivaciously… and in vivid color.

@mytavelstamps

And of course. there’s me.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BrxhOo4FglU/

I am a routine-averse Gen Xer who travels with limited vacation time and on a budget. Sounds familiar? I collect passport stamps when I’m not working hard at my 9 to 5 because I love to explore new lands and learn about new cultures. As someone who was born and raised in the Caribbean (Jamaica), it took me a while to realize the world was much bigger than the diaspora enclaves in the US, England and Canada. What’s more, it finally dawned on me that you didn’t have to be a pilot or flight attendant to visit off-the-beaten track destinations. I now blog about my trips in my spare time because I want other Caribbean nationals to see the world can also be their oyster.

If you’re still on the lookout for other accounts to follow, you can also check out a similar post that I did in 2016 here.