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Category: Features_

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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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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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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.

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The Ultimate Caribbean Christmas Playlist

If you’re a Caribbean national who couldn’t make it home this Christmas, or are an intrepid traveler of the region who is stuck in snow wishing you were lounging sun-kissed under a palm tree right now, grab a pen. This playlist is for you!

I am 100% positive it will invoke whimsical memories of sun, sand and sea, because I polled some of my closest Facebook friends to find out their favorite Yuletide songs. Their recommendations are below in no particular order:

The Great John L – Green Christmas (Virgin Islands)

Joseph Niles  – Have A Merry Christmas (Barbados)

Daisy Voisin – Alegria Alegria (Trinidad and Tobago parang)

Stephanie Hava – The Christmas Collection including Mary Did You Know ( Jamaica)

Hector Lavoe y Willie Colon – Aires de Navidad (Puerto Rico)

San Jose  – Se Va El Caiman (Trinidad and Tobago parang)

Boney M – Mary’s Boy Child (Euro-Caribbean)

Alston Becket Cyrus – Calypso Noel (Saint Vincent)

Carlene Davis – Santa Claus Do You Ever Come to the Ghetto (Jamaica)

Bindley Benjamin – Santa Looking For A Wife (Trinidad)

Baron – Caminante (Trinidad and Tobago parang)

Dean Fraser – Frosty The Snowman (Jamaica)

Home T 4 – Rock it for Christmas (Jamaica)

Jacob Miller & Ray I – Natty Christmas, Full Album (Jamaica)

Rikki Jai – Neighbour Neighbour (Trinidad and Tobago)

Byron Lee & The Dragonaires – Christmas Soca Party Medley (Jamaica)

Lord Kitchener – Drink Ah Rum (Trinidad and Tobago)

Susan Macio – Trini Christmas Is The Best (Trinidad and Tobago)

So head over to YouTube or iTunes and listen to these soothing, rhythmic sounds of the islands while you sip ponche de crème, ginger beer or sorrel. Of course, I also expect you to be eating heaping servings of two or more of the region’s traditional holiday menu items. That’d be mouthwatering delicacies like baked ham, crab and callaloo, curried goat, roasted chicken, jug-jug, gungo rice and peas, black cake, cassava pone, pastelles, and much more.

Caribbean Christmas music
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A comprehensive guide to some of the coolest 2018 Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Travel Tuesday Deals

As an avid traveler, one of the things I’m always grateful for during the Thanksgiving holiday is the wide range of discounted travel opportunities that pop up online. Unlike the crazy, busy, and often herd-like experience that’s become a norm at retail stores, there’s no need to camp outside overnight, get up at the crack of dawn, or join insanely long lines to snag your desired deal of the day. Nah, that romantic trip to Paris or that package deal to Austria for The Sound of Music Tour are only a click away.

If you’re looking to score some sweet markdowns on accommodations, flights, and package deals for your next vacation, I’d advise you to bookmark this post and use it right now. Remember, availability is limited, and restrictions apply.

[All Black Friday through Travel Deal Tuesday deals were sourced from Fortune.com, cnbc.com, yahoo.com and cnn.com. Prices are quoted in US dollars]

Airfare

Cathay Pacific is offering great fares on travel to Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Mainland China, Australia and New Zealand. Prices start at $593 return.

CheapCaribbean.com has advertised up to 70% off all-inclusive vacations in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Bahamas, Los Cabos, and Cancun/Riviera Maya. Prices start as low as $349 for three nights, including flights.

Norwegian Air plans to take 15% off its fares between the USA and Europe. They’re promising to get you from New York to Dublin, Ireland, from $114 one way; Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona, from $205 one way; and from Chicago to London Gatwick from $140.

Scandinavian Airlines will fly you from the USA to cities like Copenhagen, Denmark; Oslo, Norway; Stockholm, Sweden and Helsinki, Finland from as low as $399. They also have flights to other places like Amsterdam and Paris from $499 upwards.

South African Airways has posted a gratitude fare sale of $699 valid for travel from New York to Johannesburg and Washington Dulles to Johannesburg. For $729, passengers can fly from Washington Dulles to Accra and get to Dakar for $725.

Spirit Airlines will whisk you to many domestic US destinations for $53 one way. Roundtrip purchase is not required.

WOW air – the budget travelers’ dream – is offering two promotions: “Purple Friday” and another on Cyber Monday. With flights starting at $69 one-way flights, you can jet from Chicago, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Boston and Los Angeles to Iceland, then pay $99 one-way for flights from those cities to Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin and London.

Note: If you’re not interested in any of the abovementioned airlines or destinations, the booking app, Hopper, and the New York Times reported that the best deals were offered on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving last year. That means you need to check out your fave carrier’s site on November 27 this year. And if the discount seems too good to be true, don’t be surprised if no meals are served and you end up paying extra for everything.

Hotels

Expedia – in addition to their $100 off coupon on select flights for Black Friday, Expedia is offering an extra 75% off coupon on select hotels and more.

Hotels.com is offering an electronic scratch-off lottery in addition to its up to 40% off sale. The mystery coupon promotion allows consumers to score discounts on accommodations ranging from 7% to 99%, and it begins at midnight on Friday, Nov. 23 and runs through midnight on Monday. Nov 25.

Priceline is letting its email subscribers benefit from Express Deal coupons for up to 50% in savings on hotels. 1000 lucky subscribers will also have a chance to win a 99% discount on lodging on Cyber Monday.

Packages

Not really feeling up to scouring the internet to find great deals for individual components of your trip? There’s no need to be overwhelmed. You can look to tour companies to take the hassle out of it for you.

Intrepid Travel is encouraging customers to collect experiences, and not just things, on the trip of a lifetime by offering 20% off 1,000+ of its trips. You must book by November 28.

Friendly Planet Travel’s Cyber Monday sale offers discounts on more than 70 packages to 50 countries, including must-see spots in Europe, Asia, Africa, Central and South America. Combined with their early booking discounts, you could save up to $1,900 per person.

G Adventure Tours has joined the post- Thanksgiving party, too. They’re touting savings of up to 35% on more than 500 different tours, including an Inca discovery in Peru, Galápagos Islands explorations, cycling in Vietnam and Moroccan desert adventures.

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At last, the truths behind what travel has taught me revealed!

I just read an op-ed Rihanna wrote for The Guardian to shed light on the need for global education advocacy, and as the offspring of two teachers, I must admit I was pretty impressed. Understanding the value of a good formal education and being committed to putting in the work to get one, wasn’t an option growing up in my household; it was a must. So, to see the passion this Caribbean-born entrepreneur, philanthropist and international superstar has for assisting kids who may be denied an education because of social, economic or political reasons really moved me.

Among several important points raised, BadGal RiRi mentioned being grateful for the education she’s gained from traveling the world. That admission caused me to think of my own life experiences, and the extent to which travel has been an integral part of my personal evolution.

Below I’ve summarized five key things I’ve gained from my sojourns over the years:

A deeper sense of gratitude for my Caribbean roots and upbringing

I grew up on the island of Jamaica – a beautiful place without question – but also a country with its fair share of economic and social challenges. However, despite our ups and downs, every Jamaican I know walks around with some measure of braggadocio and an ebullient sense of national pride. But as much as I can laughingly acknowledge that even in our “bruk pocket” state we usually act like we’re the best thing since sliced bread (especially around Olympics time), I will also confess I didn’t fully grasp the full impact that Jamaican culture had made on the world until I left its shores.

Whenever I’m abroad and tell people I am Jamaican, I’ve encountered nothing but love and, in some instances, seen entire attitudes change. Believe me, from taxis in Dubai to plane rides going to South Africa, and explorations in Greece, Italy, South America and in between, I’ve discovered that our food, accent, Red Stripe beer, Bob Marley and Usain Bolt are tried and true connectors.

A greater appreciation for, and understanding of, the world around me

Every time I visit a new country or city, I get a better sense of how broad the human experience truly is and the tiny space we each occupy in this world. Because of  that, I consider it a blessing and a privilege that I have been able to visit places I previously only read about in my high school text books, or was introduced to by a magazine article, movie or travel show. It’s always such a pleasure to see and experience them in real life! What’s more, sometimes it’s only after a visit that elusive details finally make sense. For example, I always wondered why people made such a point of washing their feet before entering homes in the Bible stories I heard growing up, but after visiting Cairo and seeing how dusty my own were at the end of the day, it just clicked.

Travel has also expanded my mind because it allows me to observe and participate in new ways of doing things, try foods that are foreign to my palate, and see man-made landmarks, historic sites, and architectural designs that never fail to blow my mind.

At the core, people have more similarities than differences
For the most part, I think socialization shapes our predispositions, and those biases then end up coloring our interactions with others. But ultimately – whether we are from the Western or Eastern world; have trust funds or receive measly hourly paychecks; are born black, white, Asian or Latino – we ALL just want to be acknowledged and loved. I’ll never forget a lesson I learned in one of my college communications classes that said, “meaning lies within people, not words.” That’s why I attempt to get to know the people wherever I go, and try to approach each new destination with an open mind, as well as an eagerness to learn about customs and cultures that tend to be different from my own.

The knowledge that “problems” are relative
I never realized all the things I took for granted until I visited some places where possessions, services and freedoms I’d come to expect as the norm were not as commonplace. I’ll readily admit there have been times when I am home that I’ve wanted to cringe, cry, or throw a fit when I felt things weren’t going my way. But at the end of the day, I typically end up swallowing a chill pill because I know there are people out there without basic amenities like running water, a reliable roof over their heads, a decent paying job, and three balanced meals a day. When reviewed within that wider context, my challenges often pale in comparison.

How to be more adaptable and resourceful
Travel can be extremely unpredictable because it often takes you outside of your comfort zone, so I have had to learn to adjust quickly to unfamiliar situations. If my favorite breakfast foods aren’t available, or I find myself at an attraction that is closed because of a national holiday I knew nothing about, then I make do with the next best thing and keep on moving.  Similarly, if I lose my way (which is rare), I keep going and ask questions until I figure it out.  The truth is, it’s more rewarding to be flexible and resourceful than to be constantly frustrated. Life is too short to waste it on regret or recriminations!

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What about you? Feel free to tell me what you have learned through travel.

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4 basic style essentials for the fuss-free traveler

If you’ve been following my blog or social media channels for some time, you’d have noticed that I am very low maintenance. However, even though I’m all about that fuss-free life, I am still a huge fan of good style. I’ll be the first to admit that the daily wardrobe, hair care and makeup rituals other people go through alternate between intimidating and confounding me. But despite sometimes feeling like a square peg in a round hole, I’ve still managed to figure out a few turn-key accessories that help me achieve a look I can be proud of when on holiday.

In case you’re still on your own style journey discovery and need some suggestions, these are my four go-to essentials:

A hat
My hair is relaxed, it doesn’t do well with too much direct heat application, and it refuses to keep curls for very long. To complicate matters even more, it becomes a bushy mane whenever excessive moisture is in the air. That means if I don’t have a hat or some other head covering like a cap or beanie handy, I usually end up resorting to a ponytail or bun to save the otherwise inevitable bad hair day.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUmTerRBRIU/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Dope sunglasses
I rarely wear makeup, and if you don’t believe that, ask me to tell you the real difference in functionality between eyeshadow primer and base and I’d have a better chance of scoring an A+ in an advanced quantum physics class. So, to avoid drawing unwanted attention to my uneven skin tone and any circles or shadows below my eyes – especially when I wake up early to take pictures – I put shades on. They can jazz up an outfit in a heartbeat, so I try to pack at least 2-3 different types for every trip.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bmj-vnXnCMw/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Lipstick
As I mentioned above, Lady Makeup and I aren’t ever going to be good friends. As a result, the biggest concession I make is to add a pop of color with lipstick, because it is easy to put on and wears off by itself if I forget to take it off. Foundation, blush and eyeliner on the other hand? No, they’re definitely not that easy. I only get dolled up with the full regalia for special occasions or if I have help.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bd7qy9Zhp_K/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

A nice bag/tote
The right tote can double as an efficient travel bag and fashion accessory, depending on the one you select and the look you’re going for. Whether the goal is sporty, comfy, contemporary and chic, minimalistic or something more, you can achieve that based on bag texture, color and size. I have a thing for light brown leather, as long as it dosn’t break the bank like the one below.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BCp6D2jJsUy/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Now that I’ve shared my tips, feel free to divulge some of yours.

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PIN

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The benefits of traveling solo

People ask me all the time if I’m not afraid to travel solo. Usually, the three most common questions I get asked are:
– Don’t you get lonely?
– Aren’t you afraid?
– Do you feel safe?

Most persons are curious because they are considering jetting off by themselves and aren’t sure what to expect or how to go about it. Others ask with admiration in their gaze, so it’s easy to guess they think people who explore on their own are just #TotallyBadAss. But since I always keep things real here, I’ve got to admit that a select few come at me with coy smiles on their faces and barely masked pity in their eyes. Why? Because they feel solo travelers live a joyless life that is lacking in close family bonds or friendships, lacking in love, and ultimately, lacking in substance.

Nothing could be further from the truth! I’m here to tell you solo travel can be very fulfilling. I have traveled with family, friends and loved ones, and will continue to do so as I’ve always enjoyed those trips immensely. However, I’ve also gone on trips alone and repeatedly had amazing experiences. There is no rule to stop someone from mixing things up and taking a holiday either way, depending on what’s most convenient.

If you’re trying to decide if you should let go of your inhibitions and just go for it, I encourage you to keep these benefits of solo travel top of mind.

Florida beach_Solo Travel

Trip planning is easier
You know what things you want to see and do, the type of accommodations you like to stay in, the dining experiences you enjoy, and the budget you have to work with. That means you get to side-step dramatic disagreements and lengthy decision-making emails or phone discussions as there’s no need to check in with multiple people to gain consensus. An added bonus is that you get to decide on the perfect timing of your getaway because there is no need to align time off.

You have total freedom
Part of the challenge of traveling with a buddy or in groups is that you don’t always get to be spontaneous or decide your own schedule. Whether you like to sleep late and skip breakfast, get up at the crack of dawn to go watch the sunrise, or do walking tours instead of soft adventure expeditions…on a solo trip, the ball is completely in your court. There are no mood swings, no guilt trips, and absolutely no drama. It’s just 100% pure self-indulgence!

It’s a great confidence booster
When you visit a foreign land, overcome cultural and language barriers, successfully navigate a totally different landscape, conquer a new public transportation system and still come back with amazing travel memories, you’ve undoubtedly stretched yourself. And going outside of your comfort zone always leads to personal discovery and growth.

You meet interesting people
When you’re traveling with a significant other, friends or a group, sometimes you end up being quite insular because the bulk of your interactions are with each other. It’s different when you’re on your own. People introduce themselves to you all the time, invite you to join them at their table if they notice you’re eating alone, or you simply make the extra effort to talk to people you don’t know. I can’t tell you how many persons I’ve met that way  – on tour buses, at an attraction, or over a shared meal. And believe me, some of their stories are just epic.

So seriously, there’s no need to be afraid of traveling alone. If you truly find yourself terrified of taking that first step,  ease your way into it by booking a small group tour. You’ll start the trip with strangers and likely leave with a bunch of new friends.

Looking for more inspiration? Forbes just published a list of 33 Best Trips And Tips For Solo Female Travel

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Editor’s Notes:

In case you want to know my answers to the persistent three questions I get asked, you can see them below. I tend to give a variation of the following responses:

Q. Don’t you get lonely?
A. No. I get so immersed in the novel experiences, I don’t really have time to feel lonely.

Q. Aren’t you afraid?
A. Sometimes before the trip, I may feel a little anxiety about the unknown. But I’ve always believed that the fears I don’t face become my limits, so I get past them. Because fear is temporary, while regret lasts forever.

Q. Do you feel safe? 
A. Security, whether at home or abroad. is always a priority. The key to achieving that is to keep sharpening your instincts and routinely taking basic precautions to avoid potentially harmful situations.