Movie-Inspired Destinations

There are so many places I want to visit that I hope I have enough time during my life. I do however, know which of these are at the top of my list. The following are just a few places from my endless list of destinations. Most of the places on my checklist have been inspired by movies so here is my selection of some of the most beautiful sites you will ever find on this planet.


After I watched Slumdog Millionaire like ten times I was convinced that I wanted to go to India. Everything about the country is so mystical and unique that I’m 100% sure there’s no other place like this in the world. There are so many sites I’d like to visit there like the Taj Mahal in Agra or the palaces of Jaipur. India not only has breathtaking architecture, but it also has a lot cultural and historical sites. Some of these include the Hawa Mahal and the Golden Temple. India is the ideal destination. Not only does it have some of the best food in the world, it also has more than enough tourist-attractions to keep anybody busy. I’ll some day go to India, but until then, here’s the next country.


Ireland is another movie-inspired destination. I finished watching P.S. I Love You and I just felt that this not so-little island was a place I would go to someday. Anyways, the real reason why I find Ireland so appealing is because I love cottages and Ireland is full of them. I also love cold weather and rain. Yep, Ireland has some of that too. Among other things, I feel like this country fits my personality. Although this sounds cheesy, it’s true. Anyhow, what I find so attractive in Ireland isn’t so much the cities as it is the countryside. I can’t wait to be sitting having breakfast in a B&B with a rose garden next to the mountains. I guess this is the place I see myself in a couple of years, just drinking tea and reading the news in the middle of nowhere.




This is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands. Jamaica is just off the Cuban coast and it’s the birthplace of one of my favorite music genres, reggae. Jamaica wasn’t inspired by a movie but it I was certainly influenced by this contagious music genre. I suppose that what attracts me the most about Jamaica is that carefree feeling. I know that I will end up going to Jamaica, whether it’s on a cruise ship or a plane, this is one of the places I’d love to go to.

Another movie-inspired country: Australia. The movie responsible for my Aussie-fever is The Living Sea. This documentary about Earth’s oceans and human interaction with the sea is probably one of the most beautiful documentaries I’ve ever seen. I first time I saw it when I was about 4 years old, I was completely sure I was going to be a marine biologist. Now, I have other ambitions but I still love the ocean. So, although some of the scenes in the movie are in Papua, and not necessarily in Australia, I did somehow discover the Great Barrier Reef. Ever since, it’s been one of my dreams is to someday dive in the Great Barrier Reef.



There is one other place I’ve been always been wanting to go to ever since I watched a movie called Mulan, yes the ‘90’s Disney movie. So this movie is in China and it’s set on the great wall. I loved it, not only because I love history but, although its in cartoons it illustrated China as a very mystical place. I’ve been told many things about China, both good and bad, but I suppose that along with all the other places listed above, I’ll just have to figure out on my own what I think about them. I really don’t like to judge places I’ve never been to or even places I have already been in. Countries like China that are so big and diverse are very hard to tell what they are really like. Every little corner is different from the one before and you can’t assume things about a country.



So, this is my list of movie-inspired places I’ll go to someday. Whenever I have some other new and not so-generic place on my mind, I’ll let you know.

Cheesburger in Paradise: Edit#2

The title of this post makes reference to the famous Jimmy Buffet song, Cheeseburger in Paradise. If you haven't guessed already, I'm including Buffet's song with the funny lyrics because I just got back from my spring break in Key West, FL. It so happens that for some strange reason I'm still trying to find out, what is it that he has something to do with this small island. I’m sorry for not posting lately, but I guess you already have an idea of why I stopped posting for some time. Yet, here I am and I'm telling you about the trip I just got back from a few hours ago.

As usual, my parents (specially my dad) are the ones who finance my trips and since I'm still under their care, there are only a few things in which I influence the final decision, if any at all. This time though, it was a little different. It all began months ago when my brother had a sudden Beatles obsession. He has almost every single Beatles original record - which is not that surprising. Actually, all of my family (including myself) got infected with the Beatles fever and my mom asked me to look for any Paul McCartney concerts. My parents are not big concert people, but if there is ever a chance, they would make an exception. I signed up for any upcoming events where Paul McCartney would be playing. To my surprise, there were more events than I had imagined (I thought the guy was thinking about retirement, not starting a tour). I received an e-mail with information about his tour which had a stop in Miami on April 3, 2010. Since my mom had insisted on the McCartney concerts, I let her know about it but it didn’t seem like such a big deal. The next thing I knew, we were going to Miami during spring break to watch Paul McCartney playing at the Sun Life Stadium! The concert part was fun, but I wasn’t so excited about the other six days of the week in Miami. Some people reading this might disagree but an afternoon for shopping is more than enough, and after more than a day, hanging out at the beach gets old (this only applies to places where the sea is freezing just a little over 70oF).

I told my parents that we should go somewhere else, but the tickets were already bought and there wasn't much I could do to change the plans. I looked at the Florida map for any possible road trips and saw that Key West was not that far away from Miami. I suggested this detour to my parents and they agreed. My mom didn’t wait for long and booked a B&B (Bed and Breakfast: when a couple no longer lives with their kids and are left with an empty house, full of rooms, they offer it to tourists or backpackers and the price normally includes breakfast).

Last week, we finally got on the plane and started towards Miami. Our plan was actually to stay in Miami a night or two so that we could meet my dad's stockbroker and then head off towards Key West. Miami wasn't that exciting, I did get some time at the mall and a day at the beach, just enough. My cousin was there with her husband so we spent some time with them. Later we stopped at Aventura Mall just minutes before they were closing. This ended up being all we did in Miami. The next day we drove almost four hours into Key West. The highway, or whatever you want to call it, actually goes over the sea's surface. It looked like a long bridge that crossed the sea. When we finally got there, we unpacked and went outside for dinner. It wasn't so late so we got to walk around.

This is where the famous Jimmy Buffet comes in. If you know anything at all about the man, you know his songs are silly and barely make sense, but are funny and make you feel good. I've kind of grown up listening to Cheeseburger in Paradise and Margaritaville, where he was "wasted" looking for his "lost shaker of salt". Back to this having anything to do with this post -again I don't know what the connection is between him and Key West- but it’s obvious he’s important there. The guy has his own restaurant on Duval St. (where almost everything happens in Key West) called Margaritaville and a gift shop right next to it. The place feels like a beach party, actually the restaurant has a sign on it that says, Hurricane party. To finish the story, we had dinner there and they had a “Cheeseburger in Paradise” on the menu. Obviously, that was what I got, my parents ordered margaritas and that's how this very interesting story ends. I do suggest you go there though. As far as I know, there's one Margaritaville in Cancun and there may well be all over the world. It's an experience and although the food isn't as great as it sounds, the drinks are amazing (No, I didn’t try the Margaritas, I tried the Pina-Colada).

The next day, we reserved space on a Katamaran that takes you out at sea and you can go snorkeling. We got our wetsuits but I can't say we saw much. The bottom where the fish are supposed to be, was pretty much gray, brown, and empty. There were some fishes but that was about it. Later, we rented a jet ski that fit three people. I rode it with my dad and my brother, but neither of them had any idea of what they were doing, so I took the wheel. I was going very slow steady pace but I was being safe, my brother was terribly bored with my pace so I gave him a turn and asked him to take it easy. The next thing I knew we were all in the water and the thing was a few feet away. I got furious with him and so did my dad. He decided he would drive so that we would stop fighting. He has absolutely no idea of how a jet ski works and so all the way back we were zigzagging and getting in the way of other boats. You can probably tell I didn’t have as much fun as I expected. However, if you're into it, you will enjoy it, just make sure you're with someone that actually knows how to drive a jet ski.

On the third day, we went to the local museums and the aquarium. All the museums are tiny and you can see them in a few minutes but it's worth it. Some of the places I liked best were Ernest Hemingway's home and the shipwreck museum. Although the Shipwreck one is more exciting for five year-olds, I had a good time. Hemingway's home was very interesting, I can't say it was beautiful or distinctive but I liked it anyways and it was also were he wrote some of his famous works so I guess that gives the place some extra points.

A part from the museums or the water activities, Key West is a very cozy and relaxed place. We rented bikes that turned out to be a very good way of transportation. We got to see what we wanted to see and eat homemade ice cream. After all, Key West exceeded my expectations and I really enjoyed spending some time there. From the homey feeling of the B&B to falling off the jet-ski, last week was packed with fun things. Key West is definitely a place I would go back to.

I spent the last day of the week driving up to Miami again. We waited until it was time to head to the concert. I still can't believe I saw Paul McCartney live! It's a memory I will never forget. Specially singing Hey Jude or Helter Skelter and just being there is an incredible experience.

For the most part, my trip to Miami exceeded my expectations and it turned out to be something far more better than what I had imagined. Now, I’m very tired and I have school tomorrow, so to finish up, I highly recommend Key West and Paul McCartney concerts. Go and enjoy yourselves in the very liberal Key West lifestyle.

Cheeseburger in Paradise: Edited

So, the title of this post makes reference to the famous Jimmy Buffet song, Cheeseburger in Paradise. If you haven't guessed already, I'm including Buffet's song with the funny lyrics because I just got back from my spring break in Key West, FL. It so happens that for some reason I'm still trying to find out, what it is he has something to do with this small island. I’m sorry for not posting in lately, but I suppose you already have an idea as to why I stopped posting for some time. Yet here I am and I'm telling you about the trip I just got back from hours ago.

As usual, my parents (my dad) are the ones who finance my trips and given that I'm still under their care, there are only a few things where I take the final decision, if any at all. This time though, it was a little different. It all began months ago when my brother had a sudden Beatles obsession. He has almost every single Beatles original record, which is not that surprising. Actually, all of my family (including myself) got infected with the Beatles fever and my mom asked me to look for any Paul McCartney concerts. My parents are not big concert people, but if given the chance, they would make an exception. I signed up for any upcoming events where Paul McCartney would be playing. To my surprise, there were more events than I had imagined (I thought the guy was thinking about retirement, not starting a tour). I received an e-mail with information about his tour which had a stop in Miami on April 3, 2010. Since my mom had insisted on the McCartney concerts, I let her know about it but it didn’t seem like such a big deal. The next thing I knew, we were going to Miami during spring break to watch Paul McCartney playing at the Sun Life Stadium. The concert part was fun, but I wasn’t so excited about the other six days of the week in Miami. Some people reading this might disagree but an afternoon for shopping is more than enough, and after more than a day, hanging out at the beach gets old (this only applies to places where the sea is freezing just a little over 70oF).

I told my parents that we should go somewhere else, but the tickets were already bought and there wasn't much I could do to change the plans. I looked at the Florida map for any possible road trips and saw that Key West was not that far away from Miami. I suggested this detour to my parents and they agreed. My mom wasted no time and booked a B&B (Bed and Breakfast, when a couple no longer lives with their kids and are left with an empty house, full of rooms, they offer it to tourists or backpackers and the price normally includes breakfast).

Last week, we finally got on the plane and started towards Miami. Our plan was actually to stay in Miami a night or two so that we could meet my dad's stockbroker and then head off towards Key West. Miami wasn't that exciting, I did get some time at the mall and a day at the beach, just enough. My cousin was there with her husband so we spent some time with them. Later we stopped at Aventura Mall just minutes before they were closing. This ended up being all we did in Miami. The next day we drove almost four hours into Key West. The highway or whatever you want to call it actually went over the sea's surface. It looked like a long bridge that crossed the sea. When we finally got there, we unpacked and went outside for dinner. It wasn't so late so we got to walk around.

This is when the famous Jimmy Buffet comes in. If you know anything at all about the man, you know his songs are silly and barely make sense, but are funny and make you feel good. I've kind of grown up listening to Cheeseburger in Paradise and Margaritaville, where he was "wasted" looking for his "lost shaker of salt". Back to this having anything to do with this post, again I don't know what the connection is between him and Key West, but it’s obvious he’s important there. The guy has his own restaurant on Duval St. (where almost everything happens in Key West) called Maragritaville and a gift shop right next to it. The place feels like a beach party, actually the restaurant has a sign on it that says, Hurricane party. To finish the story, we had dinner there and they had a “Cheeseburger in Paradise” on the menu. Obviously, that was what I got, my parents ordered margaritas and that's how this very interesting story ends. I do suggest you go there though. As far as I know, there's one Maragritaville in Cancun and there may well be all over the world. It's an experience and although the food isn't as great as it sounds, the drinks are amazing (I tried the Pina-Colada).

The next day, we reserved space on a Katamaran that takes you out at sea and you can go snorkeling. We got our wetsuits but I can't say we saw much. The bottom were the fish are supposed to be, was pretty much gray and brown and empty. There were some fishes but that was about it. Later, we rented a jet ski that fit three people. I rode it with my dad and my brother (neither of them had any idea of what they were doing) so I took the wheel. I was going very slow but I was being safe, my brother was terribly bored with my pace so I gave him a turn but asked him to take it easy. The next thing I knew we were all in the water and the thing was a few feet away. I got furious with him and so my dad decided he would drive. He has absolutely no idea of how a jet ski works and so all the way back we were zigzagging and getting in the way of other boats. You can probably tell I didn’t have as much fun as I expected. However, if you're into it, you will enjoy it, just make sure you're with someone that actually knows how to drive it.

On the third day, we went to the local museums and the aquarium. All the museums are tiny and you can see them in a few minutes but it's worth it. Some of the places I liked best were Ernest Hemingway's home and the shipwreck museum. Although the Shipwreck one is more exciting for five year-olds, I had a good time. Hemingway's home was very interesting, I can't say it was beautiful or distinctive but I liked it anyways and it was also were he wrote some of his famous works so I guess that gives the place some extra points.

A part from the museums or the water activities, Key West is a very cozy and relaxed place. We rented bikes that turned out to be a very good way of transportation. We got to see what we wanted to see and eat homemade ice cream. All in all, Key West exceeded my expectations and I really enjoyed spending time there. From the homey feeling of the B&B to falling off the jet-ski, last week was packed with fun things. Key West is definitely a place I would go back to.

I spent the last day of the week driving up to Miami again. We waited until it was time to head to the concert. I still can't believe I saw Paul McCartney live! It's a memory I will never forget. Specially singing Hey Jude or Helter Skelter and just being there is an incredible experience.

For the most part, my trip to Miami exceeded my expectations and it turned out to be something far better than what I had imagined. Now, I’m very tired and I have school tomorrow, so to finish up, I highly recommend Key West and Paul McCartney concerts. Go and enjoy yourselves in the very liberal Key West lifestyle. :)

"The Only Risk is Wanting to Stay"

I'm 100% criolla, that is, I'm 100% Colombian. I live in in Colombia, lived here all my life in fact, and my family is of Spanish descent, and yes, they have been here since the first Spanish conquistadors came into this land. But making the story more interesting, I want to let you know some of the best places you can visit in my country. You may think that all the Latin countries are pretty much the same, but you'd be surprised to see that although there is much in common, there is a very big difference not only form country to country but from region to region. Colombia is a very good example of this. Now, the country is composed of five main regions: Amzonia, Orinoquia, Andina, Caribe, and Pacifico. The Spanish names might not help for anything if you have absolutely no idea of what the country's geography is like. So, basically the five regions are, the Amazon jungle, the Caribbean coast, the Andean mountain range, the Pacific coast, and the eastern plains which border with the Orinoco river. All these regions vary in climates, vegetation, cultures, and accents and they each offer very unique types of travel and tourism.

To begin, let me tell you about the Amazon. I've been very lucky because I've been 3 times in the Amazon rain forest and these visits have allowed me to become more familiar with the jungle and appreciate it even more. This region has very hard access. The dense jungle makes it hard to build roads (not that it's necessary because that would completely destroy the wildlife and plants) and also, the infamous Colombian terrorist groups take advantage of the inaccessibility of the jungle to keep their hostages and plan their next assault. Regardless, Colombia is very diverse and it's full of rare creatures that only inhabit the Amazon rain forest. So, if you have plans on visiting this magical place, I recommend you fly straight to Leticia. The capital of the departamento del Amazonas, Leticia is a small town-like city with just over 15,000 people. However, its full of warm loving people coming from all over the country (and indigenous descendants) that will make your stay much more pleasant. The Amazon has many places you can visit and Leticia happens to be right in the middle of it. Bordering both Brazil and Peru, you get a little of the three countries in a perimeter of a few blocks. The Amazon region has many national parks made to conserve nature and there's one in particular that I liked the most: Amacayacu. You won't regret having visited Amacayacu. Complete with a cabins for visitors and many options of outdoor adventure like the canopy or canoeing, you won't get bored. Also, you can ask for any guided walks across the jungle in which, if you're lucky might even get to see monkeys or birds in their natural habitat. Finally, you might even get to swim with dolphins or see them come close to you from a boat or a kayak. So, there are many things to do while you visit the Amazon, and trust me, it's safe and you will be glad you went there.

The next region, the Orinoquia is one of the mos beautiful regions of Colombia. The region, also known as the Llanos Orientales, is complete with birds and mammals such as the capibara. It has a very nice climate and a lovely scenery. The Orinoquia is made up of some of the most beautiful ----------

The Truth About Traveling

• You always forget your toothbrush.
• There is no way you will actually get to see the whole place you visit.
• Airplanes are ALWAYS uncomfortable
• People smell.
• Babies puke on you.
• Your bags will somehow be misplaced. In Africa or something.

Cheeseburger in Paradise

So, the title of this post makes reference to the famous Jimmy Buffet song, Cheeseburger in Paradise. If you haven't guessed already, I'm including Buffet's song with the funny lyrics because I just got back from my spring break in Key West, FL and it so happens that for some reason I'm still trying to find out, he has something to do with this small island. I am sorry for not posting in such a long time, but I suppose you already have an idea as to why I stopped posting for some time. Yet here I am and I'm telling you about the trip I just got back from hours ago.

As usual, my parents (my dad) are the ones who finance my trips and given that I'm still under their care, there's very little things where I have the final decision, if any at all. This time, though it was a little different. It all began months ago when my brother had a sudden Beatles obsession. He has almost every single Beatles original record, which is not that surprising. Anyways, so all of my family (including myself) got infected with the Beatles fever and my mom asked me to look for any Paul McCartney concerts, that way, if we had the chance to, we could attend one. I signed up for any upcoming where Paul McCartney would be playing. To my surprise, there were more events than I had imagined (I thought the guy was thinking about retirement, not starting a tour). I got an e-mail that he would be playing in Miami on April 3 (this was a month ago) and I send it to my mom just like any other random e-mail. The next thing I knew, we were going to Miami during spring break to watch Paul McCartney in concert. The concert part was fun, but not staying in Miami an entire week. Some people reading this might disagree but an afternoon for shopping is more than enough for me and after more than a day, hanging out at the beach gets old.

I told my parents that maybe we should go somewhere else, but the tickets were already bought and there wasn't much I could do. I looked at the map and saw that Key West was not that far away from Miami so I suggested it to my parents. They agreed and my mom booked a B&B (Bed and Breakfast, when a couple no longer lives with their kids and are left with an empty house, full of rooms, they offer it to tourists or backpackers and the price normally includes breakfast).

Last week, we finally got on the plane and started towards Miami. Our plan was actually to stay in Miami a night or two so that we could meet my dad's stock broker and then head off towards Key West. Miami wasn't that exciting, I did get some time at the mall and a day at the beach, just enough. My cousin was there with her husband so we spent some time with them and later stopped at Aventura Mall just minutes before they were closing. This was all we did in Miami. The next day we drove almost four hours into Key West. The highway or whatever you want to call it actually went over the sea's surface. It looked like a long bridge that crossed the sea. When we finally got there, we unpacked and went outside for dinner. It wasn't so late so we got to walk around and here is when Jimmy Buffet comes in. If you know anything at all about the man, you know his songs are silly, barely make sense, but are funny and make you feel good. I've kind of grown up listening to Cheeseburger in Paradise and Margaritaville, where he was "wasted" looking for his "lost shaker of salt". Back to this having anything to do with this post, again I don't know what the connection is between him and Key West, but it is obvious he is important there. The guy has his own restaurant on Duval St.(where almost everything happens in Key West) called Maragritaville and a gift shop right next to it. The place feels like a beach party, actually the restaurant has a sign on it that says, Hurricane party. To finish the story, we had dinner there and there was a Cheeseburger in Paradise on the menu. Obviously, that was what I got, my parents ordered margaritas and that's how this very interesting story ends. I do suggest you go there though, as far as I know, there's one Maragritaville in Cancun also,and there may be all over the world. It's an experience and although the food isn't as great as it sounds, the drinks are amazing (I tried the Pina-Colada).

The next day, we saved reserved space on a Katamaran that takes you out at sea and you can go snorkeling. We got our wetsuits but I can't say we saw much. The bottom was pretty much gray and brown. There were some fishes but that was about it. Later, we rented a jet ski that fit three people. I rode it with my dad and my brother (neither of them had any idea of what they were doing) so I took the wheel, I was going very slow but I was being safe, my brother was terribly bored with my pace so I gave him a turn but asked him to take it easy. The next thing I knew we were all in the water and the thing was a few feet away. I got furious with him and so my dad decided he would drive. He has absolutely no idea of how a jet ski works and so all the way back we were zigzagging and in the way of other boats. That was over and I although I didn't have that much fun, if you're into it, you will enjoy it, just make sure you're with someone that actually knows how to drive it.

On the third day, we went to the local museums and the aquarium. All the museums are tiny and you can see them in a few minutes but it's worth it. Some of the places I liked best were Ernest Hemingway's home and the shipwreck museum. Although the Shipwreck one is more exciting for five year-olds, I had a good time. Hemingway's home was very interesting, I can't say it was beautiful or distinctive but I liked it anyways and it was also were he wrote some of his famous works so I guess that gives the place some extra points.

A part form the museums or the water activities, Key West is a very cozy and relaxed place. We rented bikes and that turned out to be a very good way of transportation. We got to see what we wanted to see and eat home-made ice-cream. All in all, Key West exceeded my expectations and I really enjoyed spending time there. From the homey feeling of the B&B to falling off the jet ski, last week was packed with fun things. Key West is definitely a place I would go back to.

I spent the last day of the week driving up to Miami again. We waited until it was time to head to the concert. I still can't believe I saw Paul McCartney live! It's a memory I will never forget. Specially singing Hey Jude or Helter Skelter and just being there is an incredible experience.

For the most part, my trip to Miami exceeded my expectations and I am very tired and I have school tomorrow, so to finish up, I highly recommend Key West and Paul McCartney concerts. Go and enjoy yourselves in the very liberal Key West lifestyle. :)

Scotland The Brave!

Scotland is a wonderful country that along with England, Wales, and Northern Ireland make part of the United Kingdom. Scottish history is rich with a combination of ancient Celtic background and modern involvement in more recent world affairs. Scottish people are very proud to say that they are not English, with their own bank and accent, these people are obviously very different from their neighbors. So why go to Scotland instead of any other of the million places on Earth? Simple. Scotland is one of the best countries in the world, and home to some of the best people and legends.

If you still haven't been to the UK yet, you should obviously go to England, but missing out on the other half of the island, is like missing out on an amazing experience. Some of the things that I really loved about Scotland were the food, the music, the clans, and the 1000year-old castles. Crossing the border into Scotland means a completely different yet similar (in some ways) menu to that of England. To begin, the breakfasts are delicious and very nutritive, its almost as if you could go an entire day without anything else. The warm porridge with honey, the Haggis and Black Pudding, the eggs, the bacon, the beans, the milk, the mushrooms, and so much more are just a small list of what you can find on a menu for breakfast. Just so you know, porridge is warm oatmeal and the haggis and the black pudding are like these big sausages served in slices.

After having the exquisite meal, we would drive to the next town stopping to listen to the bagpipe player in the middle of the road play Amazing Grace or Scotland the Brave. Listening to this music live in one the world's most beautiful mountainous scenery is just an invigorating feeling that makes your day. Continuing with our trip, we again stopped at Sterling Castle. This fortress was built centuries ago, and although the ruins are that is left standing today, it does feel like time-traveling into this ancient medieval times. Another great place to have a similar experience is at Hadrian's wall. This wall built by Hadrian to protect the Roman Empire from being attacked by the Scots, is just another example of the Scottish might.

Scottish people are very keen on their family lineage. Here's an interesting fact: every family or clan has their own pattern that they weave into their clothes. This tradition has been lost due to obvious globalization reasons or what ever you want to call it, but what makes this so amazing is that people today still know what their pattern is like and men wear their kilts proudly.

If you're wondering how to plan your visit to Scotland, I suggest the following. Get a plane ticket to the closest city in Scotland (or northern England, like Newcastle) to you, rent a car, and go on a roadtrip. Having a car allows you to go to small towns and visit all the small castles along the Scottish lochs. You should also consider staying some time at a local B&B (Bed&Breakfast) where the owner of the house will greet you with warmth and be happy to help you get serve you breakfast.

The list of big cities is actually a bit short and consists of Edinburgh and Glasgow. These two have gray skies most of the time, but they do have beautiful buildings and talented street performers ranging from your average musician, to witty comedians and even magicians. The museums in both these cities are amazing, they reflect the history, the heroes, the accomplishments, the art and the people. If you want to have a look at what Scotland is really like, go to the Edinburgh Castle. This old building has served several purposes throughout its history. Today, it is home to the Honours of Scotland (the Crown Jewels) and a great display of artifacts that come from different places in the history of Scotland. The Edinburgh Castle is also host to the annual Royal Military Tattoo were participants coming the Commonwealth nations perform their traditional music live. This show ends with fireworks and the final bagpipe concert.

As mentioned before, the amount of local legends and myths in Scottish towns is infinite. There's one in particular that stands out. The story of the Loch Ness Monster. Nessie is said to be a giant animal that lives in this huge lake and makes appearances sporadically. Some say it is a giant dinosaur while others say it actually has more of dragon-like appearance. Whatever Nessie is like, it has a huge influence on the people and it even has several visitor centers along Inverness, the town that borders Loch Ness. Whatever the deal is with Nessie, you sure have fun looking out for her.


Scotland the Brave in Bagpipes


Need anymore reasons to go to Scotland?

The Ultimate Packing List

My last post was about packing and this one is about packing too. While I was stumbling on Stumbleupon, I found a page were they give advice and specifics on what to take depending on your trip. I thought this was a really cool tool if you are completely lost and have no idea what to take. If you're interested, click here and you will be able to know what to take with you.

Top 5 Packing Tips

Here are some things you might find useful if you have any travel plans. I find these very effective and they do save you some time while you're away.

1. Money
Always take money with you! Whenever you get hungry or thirsty waiting for your ride to come, you will need money. Remember to exchange some cash to the local currency before you travel. You can also take a card as long as you know how your bank works in the country where you're going to.

2. The Map
Studying the map during the night while you're on the trip helps to save some time and plan your route ahead of time. If you prefer technology, a GPS will work perfectly, but those who don't operate with technology, like me, well, maps work perfectly too. Also, make sure your MAP is updated with any new built roads bridges, or short-cuts, this will also help you save time.

3. The Shoe
Its fine if you want to look fashionable in the jungle but, walking in heels in the rainforest or a museum an entire day, might not be the most comfortable solution. Take your old pair of sneakers with you without hesitation. No matter where you are, you will walk, like it or not, short and long distances so make the most of it and be efficient. Take your sneakers and leave your heels for another day.

4. The Clothes
Personal experience has taught me that no matter where you're going or how long it is, you won't need more than 5 pairs of clothes. You will most likely be able to wash your clothes at some point, if not, wearing them twice won't kill you. Be prepared for the climate in the place where you're going. Don't judge a climate or a weather. Check the internet for updates or ask someone you know about it. Take with you a bathing suit and a sweater. These two things don't take up much space and will make a difference once you have them on, don't forget, you might get surprised and you better be prepared for it.

5. The Bag
Depending on where you are going, the size of the bag changes. I suggest that no matter where you're destined, take a small bag. The size of the bag and the amount of luggage you take with you determine your efficiency in airports and moving around from place to place. If you are carrying something big it will take you twice as long to get in a car than it would if it were a small bag. If you are taking with you only the necessary things, you won't need a huge bag and your life will be a lot easier.

There's also a bunch of other things you should take, like a hat, your bathing stuff, but that's obvious. Remember that travel agencies also help, if you're taking a tour, they already have everything set for you and you don't have to worry as much. Packing isn't a very big deal but it does get you places if its done correctly. Don't forget to pack everything a day or two before your trip so you have enough time to go get anything that is missing. :)

This guy has good reasons to pack lightly. Yes, he is funny but he's very right.

Listen to the World

So, I haven't written much recently so I thought that I would post something about one of my favorite TV channels. First of all, I have always a been a national geographic fan and I thought it was very cool that they had their own music channel with music videos of artists from all over the world. I'm also a very musical person and I love to find new different tunes. I usually spend my free time looking at the genius recommendations on my itunes account. But when I'm in another mood, I tend to listen to whatever is on the natgeo music. I've been listening to the music they put for quite a while now and let me tell you, they have some of the best selections in music. From Colombia native, Shakira, to Canada's Michael Buble, or Nigeria's Keziah Jones, this channel is full of different rhythms and songs in different languages. I think it is one of the most intresting TV channels ever. It not only includes very well-known musicians but it also includes emerging artists making their own name. I personally find it very cool that someone came up with this idea, my love for travel isn't just about going to the place, visiting some landmarks and then going back home. In that case, I would just rather stay and go on some virtual tours on the internet. I prefer to engage with locals and learn why that landmark is where it is or, why they wear this and not that. Part of engaging with locals is learning their tradition. By listening to the world, you get an idea of how musical tradition has evolved and developed in India, Germany, or Brazil. I love this channel and I encourage you to watch it instead of the plain old Mtv.
These are some of the songs I discovered while I was watching the videos on this channel:
1. Breakeven by the Script (Ireland)
2. Watch the Sun Come Up by Example (UK)
3. Lemonade by Planet Funk (Italy)
4. Homesick by Kings of Convenience (Norway)
5. Peace Song by Bob Sinclair and Steve Edwards (France)

This video below is one of my favorite songs my M.I.A. whose half from Sri Lanka, half from the UK. This song was also featured on the soundtrack for the 2008 Academy Award winning movie Slumdog Millionaire. So, I don't really like rap that much but I really like this song so I hope you like it too.

1000 Places to See Before You Die: The Ultimate Guidebook

I was recently watching a show on the travel channel about this just-married couple that decided they wanted to travel the world. They chose to do this following the book by Patricia Schultz, 1000 Places to See Before You Die. Well, I can't say I've read the book, but my dad bought it a while ago and he read bits of it. During this episode of the show (titled the same as the book), the couple was headed towards Hawaii. I had never really been interested in Hawaii, I hadn't even thought it would be a good place to visit. It never crossed my mind that such a faraway archipelago would amuse me in any way... How wrong I was! Once the show was over I was glad it had taught me something: never underestimate any destination. If you are a teenager, like me, don't ever doubt your parents' decision for a vacation. It may sound lame or uncool at first, but once you're already there it WILL be worth it and you will learn something while you experience a different environment, culture and routine. We are very fortunate to have a world this big so that we don't run out of places.

This book gives you 1000 different locations over the globe that are worth going to. Doing everything in this book is definitely part of my to-do list before I die. The title is very appropriate for the book's content. Given that I like to read but I lack enough time to do so, I also have some books on my to-read list related to travel that I'll be sure to include on a post soon. I enjoy traveling and living the experience and I think that books like these encourage you and make you fonder of your world. So, I haven't read the book, nor have I been to as many places, yet I saw that episode of the show. There's not much I can tell you other what I already have, but I do recommend you take a look at the book and give it your own judgment. I personally think it is a fun guide-book or at least it gives you ideas. I hope I can give you a more accurate review soon on it, in the meantime, if you have a chance, stop by a book shop and look at it!

To be honest, the real reason to why I'm actually giving it a space on this blog is because I think it is one of most creative guidebooks ever written. Actually, more than a guidebook, its like an idea book. If you know what I mean, yes, like a little kid's craft book. Just like that. Anyways, it gives you many options to chose from. Maybe even one of them is a couple of hours away from you. Well, this ended up being a book review on something I haven't even read which is quite sad. So yes, as I said before, I'll read it!

Oh, and by the way, there are new releases that are part of the same book collection. Now there's many byproducts relating to this book. For more information on those, take a look at the link below.
http://www.1000beforeyoudie.com/

The Travel Blog

For anyone who loves to travel, needs suggestions, destinations, likes to read blogs or just wants something to do with their time, check out the Travel Blog. It is complete with information about the destinations on all seven continents! I just discovered it and I'm already reading everything it says!

London Calling!

So for my first post I decided I would start off with one of my favorite cities in the world(that I've been to at least). Almost three years ago I went to London with family. Actually, it was my first time ever to Europe so I guess that it meant a lot more than it would if it was my third time there. So, London. It's just a fantastic place. From the wonderful parks, to the amazing feats of architecture, London is simply the place to be.

With some of the most incredible landmarks and museums, London excels in having some of the most varied restaurants. Although England is not famous for its boiled food, the many cultures that have immigrated to the UK have brought some of the world's best recipes with them. From India to Japan to fusion food, London has a great selection of restaurants to chose from. However, if you're on the go, and you're not in the mood for any formalities, fish n' chips would be a great choice. You can find fish n' chips on almost any corner. Also, don't forget the pubs! Oh yeah the pubs and the carveries are some of the greatest places to have a taste of well known roast beef with gravy. Finally, the beautiful victorian tea rooms with their delicious scones are a great alternative if you wish to dine lightly.

London is one of the world's busiest cities, nevertheless it holds plenty of historical sights and buildings were people still find the time to visit. Beginning with the Beautiful Westminster Abbey, built around 1045-50, being the burial sight for renowned British politicians, authors, poets and royalty. Including the tombs of William Shakespeare, Queen Elizabeth I, and Winston Churchill, it has also been the setting for almost every coronation in British history. Another important landmark is the tower of London. The "tower" is note really a tower. It is a building with a courtyard and several rooms. One of its many uses was a prison for royal prisoners. Today, it holds the crown jewels. A sight worth seeing. It also holds an ample display of medieval armor, from a knight's armor, to Henry the VII's horse's armor and the huge jousting equipment. Both Westminster and the Tower of London are beautiful landmarks that really give London historical credit.

Another place worth visiting is Harrod's. I was never actually inside this gigantic department store, but I've seen pictures and I've been told how splendid it is. I guess I'll have to go back to London some time soon and give you an eye-witness review of the place. There were also other places I could not go to that are just another excuse to persuade my parents to take me there one more time. I missed Shakespeare's globe theater, and Abbey Rd. Imagine actually standing were famous English muscians have stood! Abbey Road is definitely on my list for places to go to. Specially being such a Beatle fan! Well at least, I can tell you about one place that I did go to. Hamley's. It is the coolest toy store ever. If you have any little kids around you, Hamley's is sure to blow their minds away.

If you are looking for a peaceful outing to a park it is easy. Go to the nearest Tesco, get yourself some bread, salad and drinks. After you are all ready, pack your party and go to a park for a picnic. While I was there, I visited Kensington, the old home of a famous slavery abolitionist. After his death, his home is now a museum and the rest of his land was made into a park. With live music and beautiful fields, it is the perfect setting for calm and relaxed family-time.

So, although I had a great time outdoors, there were a couple of musical shows that left me singing and dancing all the way back to the hotel. The Phantom of the Opera and The Sound of Music. These two theatrical acts with the fantastic Andrew Loyd Webber and Roger and Hammerstein music were experiences that reminded me of the beauty of musical theater. It is shows like these that remind you of the value of theater and all the hard work put into it.

I suppose these are all good reasons and justification as to why London is the way it is. I guess that my one-time visited tourist experience has a very limited perception of what London is really like. In any case, it is safe to say that London has a vibrating pace that I fell in love with. For the past three years, every time I have traveled, I always come back to London as one of my top cities. Well, if I missed anything, I'll be sure to post it later.

Technical Delays

Hello again! Sorry for the late posts. I'm still gathering some pictures I want to include and some music. The next posts will be up as soon as I have this ready! (hopefully soon)

About This Blog

For those of you who are not familiar with what globe trotting is, this blog may result as a very interesting source of information. For a start this is the dictionary definition for a globe trotter: a person who travels widely. Now, this is my definition: a person who gets to experience the world first hand and expands their knowledge about this planet's natural and cultural worlds. I'm very much in love with traveling and going to new places. There's places I've been to that I will never forget and I'll share some of my own experiences with you later on. My list of places to go to is infinite and I'm sure there are more than 20 places I would like to visit in all of the continents. Since I'm busy with high school, I'm still saving up some money for my next trip, and I have some age constraints, I have to limit my traveling for now to pictures and things I've heard. So, I already gave you an idea of what this blog will contain, now I want to let you know that it would be great if I could hear from your own experiences as well! If you share my love for travel, please comment and let me know what you think. My next posts will be up soon!