The Story of My Thai Street Cats

If you would have seen me the day I dropped of my two cats, Keeley and Jezebel, at their new home, you would have thought someone I loved had passed away. Seriously. I hadn’t cried like that in a long time. There’s something exciting about starting a new life as an expat. A thrill. ThatContinue reading “The Story of My Thai Street Cats”

Cities Less Travelled: The Markets of Bangkok

There’s a reason Bangkok is one of the world’s hottest cities. From the amazing food, culture, nightlife, and historic attractions to the incredible markets and hotels in Bangkok that cater to all budgets, there is something that attracts people of all ages to the Big Mango (yes, that is its nickname). If there is one thing I loveContinue reading “Cities Less Travelled: The Markets of Bangkok”

Cities Less Traveled: Tracing the Viking Heritage in Stockholm

After watching Vikings on the History Channel, I am now completely obsessed with everything — and anything — related to Vikings. What makes more sense than heading to the former stomping grounds of this historic people to learn more about them? Stockholm, which once served as a the home of the Vikings during the Dark Ages, hasContinue reading “Cities Less Traveled: Tracing the Viking Heritage in Stockholm”

Reawakening in Spain

“Tonight, can you please take me on a tour of my new barrio?” I ask my friend, Tobi, who has been my unofficial tour guide of all things awesome in Madrid since the second week I moved here. “Yes,” she promises. And then, we’re off. It’s early evening (by Spanish standards) and the sun stillContinue reading “Reawakening in Spain”

Getting a Student Visa for Spain as an American

For most of my adult life, I have dreamed of living in Europe. But, as an American, actually living in Europe beyond the Schengen visa limit of 90 in/90 out in a 180 day period makes it pretty much impossible (unless I get hitched to someone with an EU passport, which is never entirely out ofContinue reading “Getting a Student Visa for Spain as an American”

Adventures in Biking from Santa Monica to Venice Beach

It’s a little green monster, that bike in front of me. “Where’s the brake?” I ask, scanning the handlebars for the metal clutch to prevent me from bashing into people, or giving me the ability to slow down. “You back pedal,” the man says, tossing me a look of ‘you’ve got to be kidding me,Continue reading “Adventures in Biking from Santa Monica to Venice Beach”

Hipmunk CityLove: Discovering the History in Sarajevo

Bullet holes and resin roses stand out against the vibrant life in Sarajevo — a juxtaposition which leaves many visitors speechless. Here, the tragic recent history of this Bosnian capital lies entangled with the city’s colorful present, creating a place not only to explore the riches it now offers today, but also it’s past. Although theContinue reading “Hipmunk CityLove: Discovering the History in Sarajevo”

Hipmunk CityLove: Offbeat Attractions in Paris

Paris may be known as the City of Love, but there is so much more to the French capital than just that. While most visitors to Paris check out the Louvre and Notre Dame, today I’m giving you the tips on where to find the funky, the cool, the offbeat attractions in Paris. The Paris SewerContinue reading “Hipmunk CityLove: Offbeat Attractions in Paris”

Hipmunk Citylove: Exploring Historic Sites in Athens

Athens, Greece, has no shortage of historic and breathtaking sites to explore. This ancient city — one of the oldest in the world — is loaded with historic sites, which gives visitors a chance not only to learn about the city’s past, but also to understand what makes the Greek capital so mesmerizing. With half-a-million whoContinue reading “Hipmunk Citylove: Exploring Historic Sites in Athens”

Where mod meets pop culture: Brighton’s Hotel Pelirocco

Editor’s Note: I was a guest of Hotel Pelirocco in Brighton, England. If you have questions regarding this, please read my disclosure policy. Tucked into the posh Regent Square in the famous seashore of Brighton, England, is Hotel Pelirocco. This pink-halled 19-room hotel, dubbed “England’s most rock ‘n’ roll hotel” isn’t just a place to sleep. The edgyContinue reading “Where mod meets pop culture: Brighton’s Hotel Pelirocco”