First Impressions of the Big Easy

Last week, I spent several days in New Orleans. Seeing as it was my first time visiting this historical city, I was anxious to delve into the chaos of Bourbon Street, the delicacies of Café Du Monde, and the history of a city that holds so many stories.
As some of you may know, it was the SEC Men’s Basketball Tournament last week as well, so naturally, everywhere I looked, I ran into a blue-faced, super fan who was cheering constantly for their Kentucky Wildcats. Not so much a Kentucky Wildcat fan, I turned away and went about my business.

Leaving on Tuesday, the nine hour drive was enough to make my lower back ache and my poor behind numb. The headrest pushed my head forward and our car was so packed that there was no hope of reclining so I could partake in a nice nap. Needless to say, I was awake all nine hours and with each stop we made for gas, my butt was out of the car stretching and sighing in relief.

Arriving in NOLA around five o’clock, we checked into the hotel and enjoyed the fantastic view from our room. Staying at the New Orleans Marriott, having a corner room on the 29^th floor, it provided us with two large windows – one overlooking Lake Ponchatoula and the other overlooking the French Quarter…not too shabby.

Seeing the Big Easy on the way in, I was a bit underwhelmed to be honest. Driving on Poydras Street, I saw the gambler’s haven, Harrah’s, but it wasn’t until Canal that I finally cracked a smile. Reminding me much of New York City and San Juan, Puerto Rico wrapped up in one, I was quickly coming to like New Orleans.

Judging by the sound of my stomach, we agreed it was time to go grab some grub. For those of you who read my previous post about my fascination with Hard Rock Café t-shirt, we opted to eat dinner there.  Grabbing my collectible t-shirt, designed with Mardi Gras masks and a drawing of the French Quarter, I was satisfied with my purchase. The pulled pork sandwich tasted delicious after a day of eating out of a snack bag and making a pit stop at Sonic for a quick lunch.

Before leaving for New Orleans, I had heard from many that it was best to always be on guard when walking the streets; however, I never for one single second felt paranoid or fearful. Granted, as with anywhere, there are certain places I wouldn’t want to be after dark, but I figure as long as I walk with a purpose and don’t pull a map out every five seconds, I’ll be fine.

Walking back to the hotel after dinner, I found myself taking in the shops around me and bobbing my head to the music that wafted into the streets from certain stores. That is one thing that I absolutely love and cannot get enough of…the music of New Orleans. Give me horns, the accordion, and the sounds of a washboard and I can be entertained for hours! I later bought a Zydeco cd which I must admit, has been played constantly in my car since my arrival back home.

Slipping into bed that night, I was excited to experience the days ahead in New Orleans. There was still much for me to see and do and I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed.

The Need to Travel

The world is composed of seven continents, each consisting of cultures, traditions, and lifestyles vastly different from my own. Living in the proud and patriotic United States, I will be the first to admit that Americans are often “those people” who are much less “cultured” than our friends living on the other six continents. Why, I don’t know. Maybe it is because we have it engrained it us from a young age that you grow up, go to college, get a degree, get a good job, and then “do all the stuff you always wanted to do” when you retire.


Honestly, I’ve never understood that reasoning. When I tell people that I want to travel for a living, they often look at me like I’m a crazy, 20-something who has yet to grow up. Yes, I have that college degree – two in fact, and yes, I have a full-time job, but that doesn’t mean that my want and desire to travel has faded.

As a spiritual person, I firmly believe that God created this world not just for his enjoyment, but for ours as well. For those who desire to travel no further than their state’s borders, kudos to you. For me, that has never, nor will it ever be my dream. I have always said that when that time comes for me to get married, my spouse had better enjoy traveling because that is a make it or break it deal for me. Also, when I have children, you better believe, they’re traveling with me.

For me, traveling is an eye-opening experience. Not only do I physically get to see places that I’ve never seen before, but I get to experience a place emotionally and spiritually. What I mean is that when I travel, I am being given a chance that other people may never be given. Seeing the world is something everyone should be given the opportunity to do, but unfortunately, it just doesn’t work that way.

Growing up, my parents never took a vacation without my sister and me. Traveling to Florida every summer, taking cruises, and spending two weeks in Europe has led me to believe that traveling is in my blood. In the past few years, I have become much stronger in my faith. Not only do I trust God to lead me in the direction he wants me to go, but I strongly believe that he has a plan for me and that is to make travel a large part of my life.

I realize I have written on this topic before – why I travel, but lately, I have felt like I needed to reiterate this not only to my readers, but to myself. Seeing this great world that God has created, it is foolish to let it go unseen. My writing may not mean much to others, but if my passion and words can spark even just the tiniest bit of interest and/or influence in traveling for someone else, then this blog is a success.

Traveling isn’t just about hopping on a plane, taking some pictures and “oohing” and “awing” over some monuments and paintings…it is about appreciating, understanding, admiring and most of all, respecting how others live in this world.

As Americans we often take things for granted. Traveling allows you to reevaluate those things and instead, appreciate what you do have.

Traveling with My Sister

"If you don't understand how a woman could both love her sister dearly and want to wring her neck at the same time, then you were probably an only child." -- Linda Sunshine

Having grown up with my sister for 26 years, I knew what I was getting myself into when she and I decided to travel to Europe for two weeks a few years ago.

Those of you who have older sisters know what it is like to be picked on, ignored, have your hair pulled, and even tricked to do some pretty humiliating and/or stupid things like stand by the side of the road and wave at various cars driving by the house. Oh, and did I mention I was three years old at the time!

Anyway, as we grew older, and she moved away, our relationship has become much stronger as we respect one another and actually listen to what each other has to say. When planning our trip to Europe, we talked on the phone for hours, plotting and planning each day -- we're planners, that's how we grew up.

When the day came to leave for Paris, the last thing my mom said to the two of us, besides "I love you," was "Remember, this is a trip you'll remember for the rest of your lives. Make good memories and don't be fighting!"

Naturally, we gave her the whole ho-hum answer of "Okay mom, we know, we know" but little did we know, we actually did get along throughout our trip. For some reason, while she was living in New York, I would go to visit and by the third day, every single time, we would be so mad at each other. This time, we made it two solid weeks and had only one minor spat. We were arguing about a sign in one of the Paris subways -- a very confusing one at that -- and I was saying we should go one way while she was saying we should go another. Graced with the art of direction, she managed to prove me wrong -- figures.

All in all, my mom was right. Our two weeks in Europe was an experience I will never forget. I got to experience some of the most amazing, humbling, and eye-opening places with her. Some people prefer to travel alone, not wanting to mess with the plans that someone else might have. I can understand and respect that.  I've often thought about traveling by myself and have absolutely nothing against those that do...who knows, I just might one day.

Until then, I prefer to share my worldly travels with those I love, whether that be my parents, my sister, or my friends. Hey, at least I won't have to worry about some stranger running off with my camera when I ask someone to take my photo!

Kiss Me...Wait, I'm Not Completely Irish

Okay, so I know it has been awhile since my last post. I have a good reason though. I started working out and have been utterly exhausted each night! I promise not to go so long without posting next time though!

So, I've been doing some thinking and I've decided that Ireland will be my destination of choice this coming April (at least that is when I hope to go). I've bought my guide book and already decided on different attractions to see while I am there; however, it is always nice to hear from those who have visited the land of St. Patrick.

Basically, I'm hoping for a 10-day trip, traveling to Dublin, Belfast, Galway, and Cork. Since this year is the 100-year anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, there is an exhibition in Belfast, so naturally, that is part of my itinerary.

I would like to hear from those of you who have traveled to Ireland. Where did you stay? How is the rail travel? What is a must-see and what is a miss? I would certainly appreciate any advice!!!!

My Love Affair with Museums

I must say, I have been to many museums in my life. Whether it hold paintings, sculptures or history, I'm usually always in the mood to check out what is inside these grand buildings. As awe-inspiring as the contents inside may be, the exterior of a museum can be just as remarkable. The architecture of a place can often make your experience even more memorable and enjoyable.

Having visited my fair share of museums, I would have to say my top five include:
1) The Louvre in Paris -- This one is a no-brainer. The Lourve is a world-wide showcase of elegant and classic art. Only the best of the best make it inside its walls. People line up to see items, such as the 'Mona Lisa' and  'Venus de Milo.' It is a must for all museum devotees.

2) The Metropolitan Museum of Art -- Again, the Met is to the United States like the Lourve is to France (maybe more like Europe). The only time I've been was when I visited New York six years ago. Thinking we would only spend a few hours at most, I learned quite quickly that you cannot spend just a couple of hours in the Met. Two hours turned into five and I was never more happy.

3) Holocaust Museum in D.C. -- If you want an experience that will humble you, bring about multiple emotions, and teach you valuable life lessons, this is a museum that you MUST visit. Located in Washington, D.C., the Holocaust Museum is a multi-floored building filled with photos, videos and heartwrenching stories that will cause you to wonder how evil man can be. Advice: Whether or not you have a child with you, you must go through "Daniel's Story." It is a world created through the eyes of a Jewish child and his experience during the Holocaust.

4) Vatican Museums in Rome -- Comprised of various buildings and rooms, the Vatican Museums provide sculptures and art from all types of artists, from various time periods. The most amazing and unforgettable piece is naturally, the Sistine Chapel. Those who visit Vatican City and do not see the Sistine Chapel, well, you're a moron. Stepping inside, it is a room that will literally take your breath away. Viewing "The Last Judgement," one who is religious, as am I, feels a sense of hope and horror all in one.

5) Crystal Bridges in Bentonville -- My family and I visited this museum during the Thanksgiving break and I must say, it is a beautiful addition to the state of Arkansas. Holding art that spans from the 18th century to today, visitors can see popular artists, such as Norman Rockwell's "Rosie the Riveter," Andy Warhol's "Dolly Parton," and Asher Brown Durand's "Kindred Spirits." The outside, although not finished, has beautiful walking trails and biking paths for those who want the best of both worlds -- art and nature.

Here are a few photos from our visit:

It may not look like much in these photos (I was trying to take photos while walking), but seeing it in person, it is truly unbelievable.

Goodbye to 2011...Hello 2012!!!

Let me take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a wonderful and Happy New Year! This past year brought many changes in my life -- some good, some bad; however, the chance to share my stories with all of you has been incredible.

As I look to 2012, I hope that not only new experiences, new adventures and new people enter my life, but I hope the same for all of you as well.  This past year has brought me some difficult times but through my faith, I have come through.

Thank you all for being so kind and supportive while following my blog. It is so nice knowing that people out there actually want to take time out of their day to read your thoughts.  Starting out, I never would have imagined that I would have even TWO followers and although I'm hoping to get more in the future, I'm thankful for each of you!

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND GOD BLESS!!!!!

Holiday Road

Christmas is coming and let's just say, I'm a bit panicked! Due to my busy work life, as well as events that have caused me to be out of town the past few weekends, my Christmas shopping has been very nill thus far. However, I did get a chance to do a bit of Xmas shopping this afternoon :) 

Of course, every slow car, every bit of traffic, and for some strange and crazy reason, a freaking parade, seemed to cause my somewhat happy demeanor to turn to aggravation and a boiling point that was topping the scale at around a 10!

Once at home, I couldn't help but smile when I saw my "already read once" Conde Nast Traveler sitting on the kitchen table. When it and my Travel & Leisure arrive, the world is once again, grand! I immediately started thinking of all the places I would love to spend the holidays in and of course, the most notable popped into my head -- Hawaii. 

To wake up on Christmas morning and open the door to see waves, sand and maybe a Santa sunbathing on the beach...now that would be a relaxing Christmas.  I've always thought spending Christmas in Hawaii would be one holiday I would never forget; however, until Hell decides to freeze over, my mom will expect a tree, presents and Christmas dinner at her house every year (which, I guess is okay since she cooks some amazingly good food at Christmas!)

So, since I'll be spending Christmas at home, I'll just pull out my faithful and friendly travel magazines and let their photos and words keep me company. Besides, if I couldn't handle traffic and a parade, I'm sure I'd get thrown into an airport holding cell if I were to go somewhere at Christmas.

Where has been the most unique and memorable place you've spent Christmas?