May 2011

Melbourne: a city to live in

There are some cities in the world that are amazing to visit: full of sights to see, picturesque vistas, locals that look like they climbed out of a stereotype (Paris instantly springs to mind). There are other cities in the world that may not top the list of most popular vacation destinations, but those who [...]

May 30, 2011 Continue reading…

Experience, travel: these are as education in themselves

It’s graduation season in America: many of my friends are donning a cap and gown again to receive their masters degrees or teaching credentials. While I may not be putting a few more letters after my name, I feel like my last two years of international work and travel have been an incredibly valuable education. [...]

May 28, 2011 Continue reading…

Postcard from Lorne

The Great Ocean Road is dotted with picturesque seaside towns: the whole beauty of road tripping is being able to stop and meander through each one. Lorne is often recommended as an overnight stay, but we decided it was just perfect for an afternoon tea break. After indulging in a cuppa and freshly-baked scones, we [...]

May 25, 2011 Continue reading…

Brewery tours: the best invention since beer

I’ve always been a beer girl. I’ll never forget as I knocked back my after-work pint of lager while working in France: my British coworkers gave each other a look of appreciation: “Only a Yank could drink a beer like that.” I spent high school and college drowning red cups of cheap keg beer and [...]

May 23, 2011 Continue reading…

The value of unplugging and an iPhone-less life

It’s crazy to think how quickly technology has changed our lives, and the rapid pace with which it continues to do so. Remember going to video rental stores: the suspense of not knowing if your choice would even be in stock? Even better, remember when you had to rewind? Remember those days before GPS and iPhones, [...]

May 21, 2011 Continue reading…

Food and wine envy: Paris edition

As I read through the responses to my query as to people’s favorite places in Paris, I wondered how I would answer the question myself. The Marais is my preferred neighborhood and the Jardin du Luxembourg is my go-to spot on a sunny day; I have amazing memories under the Eiffel Tower and I’d rather [...]

May 18, 2011 Continue reading…

Where to stay on the Great Ocean Road: Surfside Backpackers

Some people will claim you can do the Great Ocean Road in a day. Sure, you can: but why would you want to? The best part of a road trip is the luxury of seeing things at your own pace. Spend at least a night along the way. The best place to stop is debatable: [...]