Go Greece Lightning.....

If you're thinking of visiting any country in the Mediterranean, and you only get to see one, I highly suggest Greece. Not only is it rich in everything from history, architecture, hot men, amazing food, and beautiful islands, the country is also super broke. Why is this good for travelers, you ask? When a country is in the financial shithole, the tourist industry does what it can to encourage foreigners to come visit (and spend their hard earned doe). This means the cost of traveling decreases to promote an increase in tourism. Everything from hotels, restaurants, car rentals, airfare, souvenirs, and guided tours are discounted, making exploring the eastern Mediterranean much more accessible to the average (or completely broke) adventurer. I spent 6 weeks in Greece, soaking up the sun on the beaches of Vrahati,  traversing the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the Acropolis, and, most notably, getting engaged in Santorini. I even went to a massive Gay Pride party in Mykonos that would put San Fransisco to shame. Of course I didn't know all of the gorgeous men on the island were just as attracted to each other as I was, but I learned the hard way:) Any who, Greece was an amazing experience, one that I would encourage others to do. If planning a trip to Greece, or a country whose financial situation is similarly unstable, keep in mind these few things: the political and economic climates are a sensitive subject for the locals. So just because you as a traveler are reaping the benefits of the souring economy, keep in mind these people depend on the money you spend to put for on their table and a roof over their head. Don't take their hospitality for granted, and definitely don't go spouting off your opinion of how the country found itself in the situation it's in. Keep those comments to yourself. I don't know if you've ever seen a pissed off Greek woman, but it's not a pretty sight. Also, if you find yourself stuck in a hotel room due to unfavorable weather, I HIGHLY suggest against playing drunken card games with friends and family members. You might find yourself lost and drunk on the beach hoping the waves would just take you away. Not a pleasant way to wake up from your drunken stupor the next morning.

Cheers,
Danni

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Before You Kick the Bucket....

So recently I've thinking and rethinking about all of the things I'd like to see, do, eat, and experience before I kick the bucket. Now I know the thought of meeting your maker, whoever that might be, is a scary one for most people. And why shouldn't it be? I'm pretty convinced the world is way cooler with me in it, and I hate the idea of one day depriving humanity of my awesomeness;) Nevertheless, we will all be forced to walk towards the light someday. Will you be content with what you experienced throughout your life? Or will there be things you will regret having never seen or done? Personally, I don't want to miss out on all of the amazing things this beautiful, chaotic planet has to teach me, so I'm am creating a bucket list of everything I want to accomplish before I croak. In doing so I hope to encourage other folks to do the same. Hell, if we only get one shot at this whole life thing, I want to live it to its fullest, including the good, the bad, and the horridly painful parts. So here it goes:

1. See 100 countries (24 down, 76 to go)
2. Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro
3. Write a book
4. Learn Arabic
5. Float up the Amazon and meet the indigenous people of Brazil
6. Bike and camp along the Great Wall of China
7. Take a train from China across Russia
8. Party at Carnival in Rio
9. Learn to play the Guitar and the piano
10. Get my Ph.D in History
11. Volunteer with the Peace Corps
12. Start my own non-profit
13. Skydive (done)
14. Serve in the military
15. Start a family
16. Hike to Base Camp
17. Shave my head
18. See all 7 continents
19. Write a love song
20. Learn to surf in Australia
21. Adopt a child
22. Find (and keep) my one great love, which is easier said than done
23. Backpack Europe (done)
24. Celebrate New Years Eve in NYC
25. Raft down the Colorado River
26. Live in a foreign country
27. Participate in a peaceful protest
28. Finish an Iron Man
29. Run marathon (done)
30. Change someones life for the better

I'm sure the list will change multiple time over the years, but we all have to start somewhere. Everyones list will be completely different, as they should be, but imagine how rewarding it will be when you can cross off each accomplishment on your own list as you do them. I know it will be virtually impossible to experience everything on the list, especially since it is a continuous work in progress. But if creating a list motivates you to do the things you've always wanted to do, isn't it worth writing? You're never too old to start living, and what better time than now to just go for it? Sometimes everyday life can make it seem impossible to focus on anything other than bills, school, work, PTA meetings, divorce, or whatever. But making time to do something out of the ordinary, something that is just for you, can help make all of the mundane daily ritual B.S. seem more manageable. The list is definitely a commitment worth making, and I refuse to look back and regret not doing the things that will undoubtedly help shape the woman I am meant to be.

Cheers,
Danni

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The French Evolution...

Hahaha! My first amateur attempt at a Vlog... I think I may be too old for this, but hell, it's worth a shot.

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Hostels, Minus the Blood and Gore...

For those of you who have never stayed in a hostel but have seen the horror movies, fear not. I am here to alleviate your misguided, poorly directed, Hollywood induced misconceptions. Although some hostels may LOOK a little shady, and trust me, some are hell holes, most are comfortable, safe, and reasonably well maintained. Torturing travelers is usually not the end goal for the proprietors of hostels. If you are the kind of traveler who prefers 600 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, room service, and impeccably high 5 star standards, hosteling is going to be a major adjustment. Not that it'll be impossible and you won't enjoy it, you'll just have to tone down your expectations a wee bit. Hostels provide travelers with an inexpensive alternative for finding a place to crash and store your crap. But you get what you pay for. There's nothing luxurious about them, but they have everything you need to live on a small budget, including a communal kitchen, clean sheets, discounted bus and train tickets, airport shuttle services, and other extras. Some even have their own bars that sell super cheap beer. And let's be real. We all love cheap beer.
The types of hostels vary greatly, so do some research before you leave. Even though most of the time your choice of a place to sleep for the night will be made last minute, knowing what kind of environment you're looking for will help determine where you get recommendations. Hosteling International is a convenient way to find lodging, but it requires a membership that runs about $50 for the year. Their hostels are super clean, but they are usually a little farther outside of the cool stuff and they can be a little too... sterile..... so to speak. And by sterile, I mean kind of boring. There is very little character to them. They almost feel like a monetary, minus the nuns and other religious paraphernalia. If you're looking for a place with a little more pizazz, check out the listing for the years top European hostels at http://www.famoushostels.com/., and the top rated hostels world wide at http://www.hostelworld.com/hoscars-2012 These hostels are rated by travelers, for travelers. Most of them are privately owned and operated, and many of the employees are current backpackers who need to make some extra cash. You are bound to meet a ton of awesome people from all over the world at places like these, and if you're ever in a financial bind while galavanting the globe, working at a hostel for a few weeks is an easy way to restore your wallet to its former glory, however bleak that glory may be.

When in Amsterdam, do as the Amsterdamians do.

I don't know how many of you out there partake in the pleasures of some Mary Jane (being from California I know plenty of folks who do), but even if ganja isn't your bag, it's something you should consider if you're traveling to Amsterdam. As the old adage goes, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." I'm sure most of you are smarter than our good friend Ron Burgundy and are able to grasp this concept. However, if you are planning on patronizing some "coffee shops" in Amsterdam, there are some important things you should know first. For starters, while it is legal to smoke pot in coffee shops, it is NOT legal to do so in public places. You cannot take your swag to go. So make sure you only purchase what you are able to finish in one sitting. Proprietors of coffee shops take their trade very seriously and are incredibly knowledgeable about the goods they sell. You won't find any skunk weed in these places, and in my humble opinion that is a good thing. When you walk into a coffee shop, like the Jolly Joker or Utopia, the "menu" will most likely be a locked case with the shops selection of pot on one side and hash on the other. Each will have a name and a sample for you to look at. The pot-rista, so to speak, can give you full descriptions of everything from the flavor, the effects, where it came from, its stickiness, everything. The prices will range depending on the quality, as with any product. If you're not usually a pot smoker, as I am not, tell the person behind the counter that ahead of time. They can make sure you still get a quality product that won't send you over the edge too much. Once you've made your selection he will weigh it out right in front of you, or you can do what I did and have him roll it in a joint. I suck at it. Whatever your method, once you've paid your dues and can plop your ass in a seat, light up and enjoy. If you're traveling alone, make sure you are semi aware of your surroundings. You don't want some doped up creeper eyeballing you.

Another highly important word from the wise. It is very illegal to purchase your dope from someone on the street. If caught you'll be thrown into jail faster than busty prostitute (wait, that's legal in Amsterdam too.... You know what I mean). There's no need to buy it on the street when you can get it legally in a shop. You can even buy mushrooms in Smart shops. Lesson? Don't buy it on the street.

Now for my random Amsterdam pot smoking story. I was staying at some co-ed dorm hostel and met a couple of lads from Mexico. We were chatting it up and decided to go get a beer and check out the elusive coffee shops. I, being the marijuana novice that I am, had no clue what the pot-tender was talking about, so I just picked a purple-hued mj and had him roll it for me. I also order a piece of cake, but only because I was a fatty with a sweet tooth. It didn't even cross my mind the cake had pot in it. OOOooooooppppppssss. Needless to say I was slightly incapacitated. Honestly, I could not tell you what the 2 Mexican boys even looked like. I managed to make it back to my hostel, alone, and safely into my room. I was the only female in a 20 person co-ed room. It must have been my lucky day! I vaguely remember passing out on my bed, no blanket, pillow, sheets, nothing. I'm pretty sure my shoes were still on too, aaaaannnnnnnddddd it was only 7:30 p.m. When I woke up the next morning my shoes were off, a pillow had been placed under my head, and someone had sacrificed their blanket for the unconscious damsel in distress. I have know idea which gentleman made sure I was warm and comfortable, but I hope Karma has had his back for it.

Cheers,
Danni

Oddly enough, this is kinda what everything actually looks like after a visit to a coffee shop. Blurred and hazy;)

The Revenge of Montezuma...

And by revenge, I mean hard core masochistic revenge. Cortés most certainly did a number on Montezuma judging by the fury with which Mr. Monty unmercifully wreaks havoc on weary travelers. For those of you who have never traveled to some lesser developed countries, or for those of you who have been lucky enough to evade said revenge, I can assure you based on personal experience it is NOT something you ever want to experience. Obviously the revenge I am referring to is a stomach illness generally caused by ingesting poor quality local water in areas of the world like Central and South America, Asia, Africa, and parts of the Middle East. Since there is truly no way to discuss this issue with any sense of propriety, I'm going to be as blunt and straight forward as you all can handle. Montezuma's revenge is the shits! Literally. And I don't mean the good kind of B.M. that makes you feel energized and ready to tackle the world. I mean an Odwalla Superfood-like substance coming from a place where the sun doesn't shine. Typically this specific case of the "runs" is brought on by the ingestion of certain types of bacterial agents, most commonly the three variations of E. coli. Now I know what you're thinking. 'Why on earth is she talking about poop?' Answer? The reality is Montezuma's Revenge, also known as travelers diarrhea, affects almost 50% of all travelers, and it can put a huge damper on your Mexican Riviera beach vacation plans (no one wants to be in a bikini in the ocean when you can't control what's coming out of.... well, you know where). Most cases cause discomfort, dehydration, and nausea, which can all be remedied by going to the nearest pharmacy and purchasing some over-the-counter antibiotics. Pharmacies are generally really accessible in other countries. However, if left untreated serious problems can occur. My embarrassing, yet completely true story about M. R. goes something like this. While I was backpacking through Peru after my engagement was called off (a blessing in disguise. Love ya Bobby;) I accidentally ingested some tap water. I'm not sure how or when, since I only drank bottled water. I even used it to brush my teeth. Needless to say my stomach and lower abdomen were in a frenzy. In fact, there has been only one time in my life where I have pookipseed in my pants (see the first Sex and the City movie), and it was in Peru. I had been feeling shitty for a few days, pun intended, an while hanging out in the hostel I was staying in in Arequipa, I laughed at a fellow travelers joke. I noticed something unpleasant had escaped from my bum, but I assumed it was just a good ol' fart. I was much mistaken. Farts don't linger all warm like that. I was HORRIFIED!!!! Once I noticed what had happened, the look on my face completely gave me away. Everyone busted up laughing, so I did what anyone as ridiculous as I am would do. I made a joke, laughed along with everyone, and took the longest shower of my life. I also threw out that particular pair of chonies. The glory of it all? Three other people I had met and been traveling with shat their pants at some point the very next day. That's what they get for laughing at yours truly!

If explosive diarrhea is something you'd like to avoid the next time you find yourself in a less developed country, follow these tips: Drink only bottled water; don't use the tap water to brush your teeth; while out at a restaurant ask if the ice is made with filtered water and if not, request no ice; do NOT order anything with raw vegetables that have been washed in the water (I am almost positive this was my demise); don't allow any water to enter your mouth while showering; and don't share drinks with someone who has been dumb enough to actually do any of the aforementioned no-no's. If you do get sick, immediately start drinking anything with electrolytes. Gatorade, Powerade, Pedialite, or anything of the like. Run (with your booty cheeks puckered) to the nearest pharmacy and talk to the pharmacist. They are no strangers to travelers having this problem and they are more than happy to help. Also, always make sure you have a roll of T.P. or cleansing wipes in your backpack. You'll be thankful you have them, trust me.

Since poop is a favorite topic of conversation for some of my best friends and me, this post is proudly dedicated to my beautiful friend Steph. I know how you roll when it comes to shiznit;)

Cheers,
Danni

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We Will Never Forget....

In light of what September 11th represents to Americans, and the world as a whole, todays post is dedicated to those who lost their lives on that sad and eventful day, and those who serve to protect this country, her people, and their freedom.

Instead of doing my normal travel mumbo jumbo, I'm going to reflect upon that morning. Where I was, what I was doing. It's emblazoned in my memory, as I'm sure it is in most peoples memories. It started like every other sleepy morning. I had just started my senior year of high school. The T.V. was on, usually really loud to keep me from dozing off again. The first plane hit while I was getting ready but virtually no information was available at that point, so I didn't realize the enormity of the situation. By the time I walked to my bus stop, everyone was talking about the Twin Towers, a term I can honestly say I'd never heard before. I had no idea what the World Trade Center was but from that day on I never forgot. The second plane hit while the bus was en route to the school, so by the time I arrived the faculty and students who were already there were in a panic. Although we were all required to stay for the whole school day, class instruction was put on hold while we watched in horror as every news station replayed the images of the second plane crashing into the tower. Everyone remembers the sight of broken glass, the explosion, people frantically running down the street with the smoke, dust, and debris all around them. Over and over those images were played. Most of us were in too much shock to fully comprehend what had actually happened, nor did we have any idea how much this country was forever changed in that moment. As we look back over the last 11 years, it's hard to imagine how different our lives would be if September 11, 2001 had just be like any other day. Friends and family who deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan may have been able to spend more time with the people they love. The economy wouldn't have brought the middle class to its knees. The political climate is at a great divide. But not every outcome was negative in nature. We are more proud as a nation. We respect our troops like never before. The younger generation has the desire to be more active as participants in the democratic process. We are making our voices heard. Perhaps without the tragedy of 9/11, generations X and Y might not have the passion and influence they have now. As we continue to move forward, rebuild, and remember all that has been lost, let us also be thankful for the strength and unyielding determination the events of that day have given us.

With Pride, Love, and Understanding,
Danni