Curious Wanderlust

Priceless Amsterdam

2009-07-17T23:01:00.003-04:00

Travel deals, gift ideas, things to do and see. Very hip, inspirational portal to travel knowledge.

Things I want to do in Amsterdam:

{ photo credit: brad hoff }

1. Rent a Bike

Amsterdam is made for cycling. With special bicycle traffic lights and bicycle lanes it is the fastest and cheapest way to travel in and around the city. Biking is also convenient, safe and lots of fun. Whatever your age, you will see more by bike! MacBike rents out top-quality bicycles for you to explore Amsterdam in a typical Dutch way: on a bicycle! Rental prices start as low as 11 euros a day. Link: www.macbike.nl/english

2. Eat Cheese
The Dutch are famous for their cheese and have been producing it long before 400 AD. If you want to buy some cheese during your stay in Amsterdam, you should go where the locals go, De Kaaskamer. This shop has a wide variety of Dutch cheeses and even foreign cheeses. One piece of advice before you decide what to buy; do some sample tasting and have the sales person vacuum wrap your cheese so you can import it into the US without any problems. Runstraat 7 (nine little streets area) Amsterdam.

3. Be Surrounded by Tulips

If you are looking for flowers, there is only one place to go: The flower market at the Singel canal. At this market along the Singel canal you can find any type of flower at very affordable prices. There is also a huge collection of tulip bulbs for sale, which in case you decide to buy some, can be shipped to your home address. Link: Tulips

4. Shop for Artistic Shoes
Jan Jansen Shoes: The shoes at this trendy shop are not just shoes: they're a work-of art, designed by acclaimed artist Jan Jansen. His designs are known throughout the world of fashion and Jan Jansen has exhibited in many museums all over the world. Visiting this shop is almost like going to a museum, only this time you can buy and wear the artwork! Rokin 42 Amsterdam. Link: www.janjansenshoes.com

5. Visit as many Museums as possible
Too many fantastic places to soak up art. Link: museums

That's all for now...

Plane Travel with Your Pooch

2009-07-15T19:46:00.002-04:00

I have a 2 year old Papillon pooch. She's a 10-pounder and fits perfectly in the airline approved travel bag. However, I've always been concerned about taking her on a plane. Mainly for the fact that it's so loud and she'll be stuck in her bag for at least 2 hours.

I came across some of these travel tips for flying with your pooch. Check it out...

From DogAge.com...

Now Boarding: Plane Travel with Your Pooch
Originally published on July 02, 2009

Planning to jet-set with your pup in tow this summer? Before flying the friendly skies, make sure to check the airline's Web site for pet travel policies, or call and ask a representative to give you a rundown of their rules. Here are some key things to know before boarding: Almost all of the major airlines let you travel with pets, but Southwest allows only fully trained assistance animals.

If you plan on traveling abroad, make sure the airline allows dogs on transatlantic flights. You'll also want to contact the embassy or consulate in your destination country to find out about any restrictions.

An airline may not allow "snub-nosed" dogs, like pugs, French bulldogs, or pit bulls, to travel in warm temperatures.

All airlines will only accept pets in good health, and each state has its own requirements for health and/or rabies vaccination certification.

Your dog's carrier should have plenty of small openings for ventilation and be large enough to allow your dog to lie down, stand up, and turn around.

To make your pup's flight as pleasant an experience as possible, get him accustomed to the kennel beforehand. Have him ride in it on car trips -- and make sure to reward him for his good behavior!

Also check out... Traveling with Your Dog by Jet Plane for Dummies.

6 Pieces to Pack for a Trip to Southeast Asia

2009-07-14T07:49:00.000-04:00

Ever wonder what you should pack for a trip to Southeast Asia? I've always been that girl that packs too much stuff... like 5 pairs of shoes for a 3-day trip... but manage to stuff it all into my little Roxy suitcase without breaking the zipper. I need to learn to travel light, as they say.

Here's a first step... 6 Pieces to Pack for a Trip to Southeast Asia.

Peapod Neighborhood Electric Vehicles

2009-07-13T19:05:00.000-04:00

http://peapodmobility.com

As soon as I saw these I thought they looked really cool... and fun to drive like an enclosed golf cart. Check out that smile! Looks fun to drive and very awesome for the environment.

From the news...

A decade after its launch and with 38,000 zero-emission electric vehicles produced and in use, Chrysler LLC's GEM brand has launched the first of its next-generation designs - the Peapod. Scheduled for production in 2009, the low-speed neighborhood commuter can cover up to 30 miles without recharging at a top speed of 25 mph. In keeping with the company's "lots of love" slogan, the new fully-enclosed pod design uses eco-friendly recycled and recyclable materials in its construction and should keep a lid on road rage by virtue of its smiling facade (both front and rear), as well as keeping those inside the car happy with new ergonomic mesh seating and a freshly designed center console featuring iPod integration and hands-free iPhone support.

I can't wait to see these little babies on the road!

How to Survive a Redeye Flight and Still Look Good

2009-07-05T18:56:00.000-04:00

From Stylehive: How to Survive a Redeye Flight and Still Look Good

Metromix.com: 2009 Tampa Bay 4th of July Guide

2009-07-04T10:05:00.000-04:00

July 4th was always one of my favorite holidays because of the fireworks and celebration of freedom. Then in 2004 one of my best friends was killed by a drunk driver in Tampa on July 4th and it always brings back memories of the times we shared.
The fireworks are for you, Travis!

Courtesy of:

Gotta love this site...

Fireworks displays and events for 4th of July 2009
A complete list of the best places to watch fireworks and events in Tampa Bay for the 4th

Best bars to watch fireworks
Stay cool with drinks and air conditioning. It's how our forefathers would have wanted it.

4th of July parades and events in Tampa Bay
Celebrate at these 2009 Independence Day parades

Five Freebies this 4th of July
This 4th of July let the system work for you! Check out these 5 freebies for the 4th

I'll be hanging at a friend's house party on the 4th. Hope everyone stays safe and has fun!

Parisian Chic

2009-07-03T11:00:00.000-04:00

(photo credit: stylehive)

:: view slideshow ::

New York Adventure

2009-07-02T22:40:00.007-04:00

:: photo taken by me in Tampa, Florida at New York Pizza (2009) ::

Thursday, June 18th Lolly and I caught a flight out of Tampa at 9:20am. We moseyed our way through the line to check our bags and get boarding passes... and then through the security line... and then through the Starbucks line. Only to hear our names being called over the loudspeaker. Oops! We almost missed our flight and were the last people to board the plane.

I started reading Twilight and Lolly flipped through my July 2009 Elle with Gwen Stefani on the cover. The flight was quick. We landed in Long Island by lunchtime and Caroline picked us up from the airport. It was raining... and had been raining in New York for weeks. Everything was so green and lush due to all that wet weather. It was refreshing!

We settled in at Caroline's parent's beautiful home on Long Island. AND decided to be adventurous, even though we were all sick, and travel to the city. After all it was the ONLY time that we would really have a chance to go to the Big Apple.

Passing a Graveyard in the Rain

After going shopping, almost getting lost in Macy's and wandering around Times' Square... it was time to celebrate International Sushi Day! We thoroughly enjoyed our Planet Tokyo, Super Devil and Dragon sushi rolls in a red-lit sushi bar. Delish!

Empire State Building - Erie!

Friday, June 19th was a day of getting prepared and pampering ourselves. Caroline's mother made the most amazing French toast for breakfast. Suzie, one of the bridesmaids, came and scooped me and Lolly to run some errands - picked up the dresses, did a little last minute shopping and got some things for Caroline. Then all the girls met at the nail salon to get beautified! I should have taken a photo of my gorgeously airbrushed French manicure and Lolly's French pedicure, but forgot that detail.

After all that we changed into our pretty dresses and were off to the church for Rehearsal... and then to the true Italian restaurant for the Rehearsal Dinner.

Me, Caroline and Lolly

Saturday, June 20th was the first day of summer and also the BIG day! We woke up early to fresh New York bagels and got our hair styled in beautiful up-dos for the wedding. The day was spent getting dressed, made-up and ready for a day full of photos and love. The wedding was heartfelt and perfect in every way. I'm so happy for Tommy and Caroline!

Newlyweds!!!

The most fun was the Reception. This has to be one of the best weddings I have ever been to! Wonderfully fabulous location on a golf course. AND... it didn't rain until we were all inside celebrating with the newlyweds! Everyone had a great time dancing, drinking, eating and enjoying the company. It was a night to remember!

Tommy & Me (wearing his silly glasses)

Sunday, June 21st we departed back to hot and humid Florida. Suzie was kind enough to let Lolly and me crash on her sofa bed and take us to the airport. Thanks for everything Suz!

I continued reading Twilight and Lolly did some homework. We landed in Tampa and it was 99-degrees with super thick humid air. Welcome home. We both wished we were still on the Island. New York holds a special place in my heart... can't wait to go back!

Here's the slideshow for your viewing pleasure...

I ♥ New York!

Discovered: CoolCapitals.com

2009-07-02T22:29:00.004-04:00

CoolCapitals.com

This site is super rad!

Search this animated site for Art, Architecture, Design, Fashion, Food, Nightlife, Shopping and Events in Amsterdam, Antwerp, Valencia, Vienna, and Zurich.

Very cool!

Time Flies...

2009-06-10T22:01:00.006-04:00

Shortly after my last post on Friday, March 13th I was rear ended by a drunk driver in Tampa. Traveling to my friend's house for a little fun, I was less than 1 mile away from home and *slam* - my life turned upside down.

Since then I've been making regular trips to the chiropractor, massage therapist and physical therapist 2-3x/week. I got a new car that I adore. I'm finally almost feeling like myself again, but still a bit squeamish since the accident when traveling in the car. It's slow, but healing takes time.

I also am a hair model for the 2009 Goldwell Trend Zoom Challenge and have bright purple streaks in my hair. LOVE it!

If we're selected to move onto the next stage... we're going to Vegas, baby!

I missed the cherry trees in full bloom, unfortunately, since I haven't been able to travel (except to and from appointments and the office). SO I am super excited about my trip to NYC next week! I can not wait to get out of Florida and refresh my spirit with the Big Apple.

Travel plans... my friend that's getting married is picking us up from the airport and then we're off to the Village (for eating and shoping) and around Central Park (to hopefully see the Alice in Wonderland sculpture). Then Miss Caroline is getting married! I'm in the wedding, BTW.

Cherry Blossom Festival

2009-02-26T18:37:00.001-05:00

National Cherry Blossom Festival

I've always wanted to go to Washington, DC to see the cherry trees in full bloom. Photographs I've seen are so beautiful! This year they are expecting full bloom on April 4th. I'd like to go to the festival and parade that day.

I do have family (and my man has friends) in that area, so I think we're going to head up for a short vacation in April. It will be great to see my mom. Although I'm really going to miss the puppy! Considering taking her, but flights are hard on pets and we'd need a safe place for her to hang out while we went out. (Pet Travel is a whole other blog.)

Thinking of flying in to Baltimore and renting a car on April 2nd and home on the 6th. Anyway, we'll see how it plays out.

Dreaming of Paris

2009-02-26T13:27:00.007-05:00

I have an amazing fascination with France! My dog is a French breed (Papillon, butterfly dog). My grandmother's maiden name is French. I love French wine and films. I'm starting to learn French (slowly). I'm reading the French Culture Smart! book to learn more about the culture. I love French fashion... haute couture!!! I long to see the lavender fields in the French countryside and to spend time soaking up Paris.

While surfing for new Paris images online I came across an fabulous apartment rental site. They have images of all their apartments, rates and additional information about the area. I absolutely LOVE they are decorated.

My favorite apartments:

Also, found another helpful apartment rental site: ParisAttitude.com

I need to do more research on the Arrondissements to see which area I would really love to stay in and what each one has to offer. I'm really glad they have a subway... makes it easy to get around!

New York: Things to Do

2009-02-25T16:29:00.004-05:00

Just booked my ticket to New York for a short summer trip. So excited!!! My friends are getting married in Long Island on June 20th. Flying up with my bestie on the 18th and home on the 21st. I can't wait!

The city that never sleeps has so much to offer for things to do. Here's my list...

Ice skate at Rockefeller Center
Spend the last moments of a year counting in the New Year in Times Square
Go to the Halloween parade in the Village
Visit the Alice in Wonderland sculpture in Central Park
Shopping, shopping, shopping!

Although I won't be able to do #1-3 due to the timing of this trip... I will be shopping! Will probably go to Central Park and could possibly see the Alice in Wonderland sculpture (if I can navigate us there). We also want to go to the Village for shopping, etc.

Bikini Bootcamp in Mexico

2009-02-02T10:43:00.003-05:00

This is the real deal. A tropical getaway that helps you shape up and rejuvenate your life. I would LOVE to do this!

Bikini Bootcamp takes place in Amansala, Mexico. Sounds like a fabulous vacation to me!

Bikini Bootcamp Book

Thailand: The Land of Smiles

2009-01-14T15:11:00.007-05:00

Swimming Pool in Phuket, Thailand

This is what I want to do in Thailand. Doesn't it look so relaxing? It's so beautiful!

I absolutely LOVE Thai food. It's one of my favorites. I would love to experience it from the source and see what their culture is really like. One of my friends is a doctor who travels around the world to help people heal and get well. He says that Bangkok is one of his favorite travel spots. One day I want to go there.

If it looks anything like this I may never leave.

The Land of Smiles

Culture Smart! Books

2009-01-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

I found the Culture Smart! books at Christmas time and purchased two - Japan and France. These books have so much information that you normally would not be aware of.

Culture Smart! provides essential information on attitudes, beliefs and behavior in different countries, ensuring that you arrive at your aware of basic manners, common courtesies, and sensitive issues.

Travel Tip 1: Read Up
Don't pack anxiety in your suitcase! Reading a Culture Smart! guide before you go will ease your travel, help you to make friends and avoid confusion.

Travel Tip 2: Walk the Walk
Culture Smart! guides go the extra mile to help you brush up on your cultural small talk and will make you confident in leaving your comfort zone far behind.

Travel Tip 3: Be Part of the Global Community
With Culture Smart! you will learn about daily living, historical perspectives, taboos, business etiquette, eating and drinking and much more, allowing you to experience the country like a local. Be responsible, be Culture Smart

I've been reading the France book and have really enjoyed it so far!

Craving > Travel Gear

2009-01-13T23:27:00.007-05:00

This blog has me inspired to search for chic travel gear for the fashionista globe-trotters. Here are some cute finds...

Lanvin Island Print Tote

Horchow Collection Passport Cases

Tepper Jackson Aerodot Black Carry-All

Tepper Jackson Jet Set Blue Luggage Tag

Tepper Jackson Ciao Red Luggage Tag

Tepper Jackson Pop Blossom Passport Case

Tepper Jackson Passport Case Collection

Adventure Luggage Tags

Attitude Luggage Tags

Jumbo Hostel

2009-01-13T23:12:00.004-05:00

I came across this today and think it's so neat!

Hostels are cheaper places to stay while traveling - something like dorm-style college living. I've never actually stayed in one, but know people that have. I would love to spend a night in this plane. It's genius to recycle a plane into something useful that doesn't use all that fuel.

"Some travelers in Stockholm soon might get to sleep on a plane — without ever taking off. Stockholm Arlanda, Sweden's largest airport, has approved a plan by Swedish entrepreneur Oscar Diös to convert a Boeing 747 parked near the airport entrance into an affordable hostel. Early plans call for ripping out the wide body's seats and installing 80 beds and converting the cockpit into a suite, said airport spokesman Niclas Härenstam. An opening date and rates have not been determined. Swedish charter company Transjet was the previous owner of the plane, which has been grounded since the company folded in 2002. Diös couldn't be reached for comment, but Härenstam said Diös has expressed interest in the past in starting a chain of similar hostels at other airports."

www.jumbohostel.com

2009: The Year in Travel

2009-01-05T21:31:00.000-05:00

Here we are... in 2009. There are a few trips on the horizon for this year.

My planned trips:

1. Washington, DC to visit the family sometime in the next few months.

2. New York City in June for a wedding. This will probably be a short trip - Wednesday to Sunday.

Trips I hope will happen:

1. British Virgin Islands in June or July with the family, boyfriend and friends. Hoping that I will be able to do this with tax money and get away for a while - maybe 7-10 days.

2. Lollapalooza in Chicago the first weekend in August. I wanted to go in 2008, but had to work an event that weekend so it didn't work out. I always have a place to stay in the city with family or friends.

3. Los Angeles to visit my sister, our writer and new webmaster. Since I was a little girl I had this obsession with California. Just got a chance to go there in 2007 and fell in love with the West Coast. My sister recently moved from San Francisco to an LA beach town. I can't wait to visit!

4. Work travel. Last year I was able to go to Salt Lake City and see snow fall from the sky for the first time in my life. It was a short, sweet, cold trip - but the ticket, hotel and rental car were free... can't beat that.

Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?

2009-01-04T20:51:00.000-05:00

Maybe this is when it all started. I used to play this game on our spiffy Apple computer in the 80s. I loved everything about it! The mystery... the travel... the powerful woman.

My Curious Wanderlust

2009-01-02T20:39:00.000-05:00

I have a curious wanderlust... the desire to travel this planet to see sights, hear foreign tongues, taste new cuisines and feel what it's like to be immersed in another culture.

If only there was a way to do it without worrying about finances, obligations or responsibilities to handle back home.

Here I have my very own little corner of the net where I can write to my heart's content. This blog will serve it's purpose to be a travel journal when I do get to leave this state of sunshine, humidity and construction.

I long to get out an explore the world!