Try something new

A big part of traveling is eating. That's usually why, much to my mother's frustrations about 50% of my photos are of food. I am a firm believer that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach and the same is true for a country's heritage. So much of our customs and traditions are based around a family meal and that's why I encourage you to take risks- try the street vendors, and bar bum restaurants that are open until 6am! This is how you get to know the people of a country. These are the very reason that I like to go to the grocery store- it's a learning experience!

However, all that being said I know exactly how intimidation some foods can be if you've never had them. I want this new segement of the blog to be dedicated to your food education, in hopes that you walking into a little hole in the way dive and don't get treated like a tourist!

Lesson 1: Sushi
I have just the chart for this!

Travel Mentors

There are loads of shows out there today where you can watch as people set out to explore the world! I'm extremely envious of these people and am still trying to figure out how they get to be so lucky. But until that realization strikes I'll just have to be content watching from my couch. Here are some of my favorites and I highly suggest them!

Samantha Brown has hosted several series including Girl Meets Hawaii, Great Vacation Homes, Great Hotels, Passport to Europe, Passport to Great Weekends, and Passport to Latin America. My personal favorite was Passport to Europe, but Great Weekends was fun if you were just going to be passing through a city. Her shows are full of local information and hidden gems, so if you're plan for a trip double check to see if she has an episode on the location.

Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations is a great show, I can't deny that. I, personal, think this guy is a huge asshole, but still find myself enjoying the show... especially the episode of Croatia! I have a lot of respect for people who appreciate the simple things in live: Food, Wine, and simply walking the streets. Anthony Bourdain does, but he's just a condescending douche about it. SO if you can put up with that, then no problem!

Karl Pilkington is one of the FUNNIEST people in the world. He hates change and fears the unknown... so his best friends, Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant send him out into the world for kicks and giggles! It's hilarious and educational. I think I'm the most jealous of this situation, because he's doing all these amazing this and experiencing locations I might never get the chance to see... and he HATES it! It's like an elaborate prank that they've videoed for the last 3 season. Watch "An Idiot Abroad", you'll love it.

Comedian Zane Lamprey hosts a humorous trip around the world sampling the local well-known (and little-known) food and drink while also engaging in local alcohol-related customs. This is like every man's dream, right? The show's called "Three Sheets" and some times you can catch on the travel channel late at night. It's funny and educational, especially if you're interested in how alcohol is made and the history of your favorite drink.

So there you have my 4 key travel show mentors. If I missed one of your favorite, feel free to post their names! I'll look them up, since I'm always up for a good guide show. Happy Travels!
~Greet

Backpacker's pantry

For a while now I've been interested in creating a reoccurring post about the joys of traveling BROKE... something I know all about. This is the first of those posts and it's all about a traveler's favorite experience: Food.
When traveling on an extreme budget, it's best to choose your meals wisely. I try to eat a solid breakfast, maybe even a local one. Then at lunch, pack your own! I like to shop at open air markets or a local grocery store. If you make or buy a type of trail mix or dry mix to snack on between meals. Finally, dinner is a best from a cheap cafe or dive bar.

Here's  what the type contain I just to travel with when I'm backpacking.  This image has a lot of junk mixed in it, but if you're buying from a market then you can pick up some local goodies!
Another good tip for cheap meals while traveling is favor packets like this.

These are a collection of mostly German brands, but they make more than sauce. Lots of great flavor packed up in one of these little envelopes. I've mixed them in with Eggs or just grounded meat. Them make some pretty killer burgers!

Look forward to the next post on Backpacker's post!

Christmas Gifts to Inspire Travel

We all have those friends who needs a little... push to help them embrace their inner-vagabond. If you're searching for a great gift to inspire them to get out and go, here are some fun ones.

Regional Wine Samplers: I'm actually doing this for two friends this Christmas. They are just a wonderful gift and if you're willing to splurge you can also add a gift membership on for your friend. There are two options for memberships and both have some pretty sweet perks.

Scratch Off Map: A friend bought this as a graduation gift for me. I find myself constantly want to go somewhere new when I look at my progress so far. It also helps you pinpoint those areas of the globe which you've completely ignored!

Gift Basket: This is my favorite shop! I can spend hours getting lost in here and usually walk out with over $100 in products afterwards. During the Holiday Seasons you can design gift baskets which can feature a single location or a whole region of the world!

An Experience: This one is more for if you know your friend is going somewhere. Make them reservations at a restaurant they've never tried or book an excursion they might think about, but never follow through with! I've done with not only at Christmas, but weddings too. If you know the Couple are going to Fiji, then look into fun outings for their trip!

A Book or Film: Inspire your friends through the gift of Words, both written and spoken.

So go and inspire someone this Holiday Season. We need more Vagabonds in the world!