japan/china 2019
On my second visit to Asia, I got to visit two countries: Japan and China. Ben’s Grandpa still lives in China – Shaoxing to be exact. So when his family decided to visit, I tagged along. Any trip to anywhere in Asia from NYC warrants at least two weeks, since it’s such a long flight.…
10 foods you should say, “ni hao” to in china
I wish I got the chance to try a lot more food but unfortunately, we were only in China for about five days. As with any country, China has its regional cuisines (I highly recommend watching, “Flavorful Origins” on Netflix to learn more about Chaoshan and Yunnan cuisines). Being that China is one of the…
6 things i learned in the 5 days i spent in china
Credit cards (and cash) are not widely accepted. Not even McDonald’s in the Shanghai train station accepted credit cards. The main form of payment is via AliPay or WeChat app where it’s either linked to a credit card, or you pre-load money onto it and it works like a debit card. Weather at the end…
7 things you should know if you’re applying for a china visa
If you’re planning to visit China, you’ll need a Visa. There are different forms you can select from, depending on the reason for your visit and the length of your stay. Here are some things to keep in mind before you apply: Download and complete the correct form (typed, in caps) prior to your visit…
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ireland 2013
I visited Ireland almost two years ago. (March 16-24 to be exact) So yes, I was there for St. Paddy’s Day (and it’s not spelled St. Patty’s there. If you spell it that way, be prepared to be taught a lesson on that one!) and no, it wasn’t as crazy as you would think it Read more
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the best 20 euros you will ever spend in venice
Picture this. You’re taking in the beautiful and very unique views that Venice has to offer. You see other tourists doing the same from the comfort of their gondolas. The sun is beaming. There’s a light, crisp sea breeze blowing through your hair. It’s the perfect, relaxing way to wind down from a jam-packed touristy Read more
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i did not get an invite to amal alamuddin and george clooney’s wedding
I actually just missed it by a couple of hours. I left Venice Saturday morning and their wedding was Saturday night. I’m kind of glad though, because that also meant that I got to avoid the hoards of tourists trying to catch a glimpse of the happy couple (even though I probably would have been Read more
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when in rome
I had to go for that cliché. I just had to do it. When in Rome, what else is there to do? I’m glad you asked! Piazza del Popolo – a large square that was used for public execution. Luckily it’s home to something far less morbid today – people watching. Street performers moonwalking to Read more
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hey look! is that the pope?
Unless you want to walk for an hour, the bus (64) is probably your best option to get into Vatican City. It will get you there from the city center in about a half an hour. Once you arrive, you will go through security check. I’ve read that the Vatican is super strict on dress Read more
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the trevi fountain, in none of its glory
You’re getting closer. You see the sign and the arrow pointing towards the Fontana di Trevi. You can almost smell the rusted coins that have been soaking in those murky waters for God only knows how long. Until you turn that final corner and you feast your eyes on a bunch of scaffolding. And this Read more
how to be a traveler 