All posts by Kate Flannery

Kate is an adventuring globetrotter, and a part-time sailboat crew-member. She likes authentic food, blogging, contemplating the eldritch, and playing with her two dogs.
Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Packing the Perfect Traveler’s Hygiene Kit

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No matter how thorough we are while packing for vacation, once we reach our dream destination, something’s always missing. Unfortunately, that something is usually a part of our hygiene kit. 4 out of 5 times it’s the toothbrush. It makes sense, right? While we are deciding on the number of shirts we won’t even get to wear, and the books we won’t ever open, something as insignificant as a toothbrush has to slip out of our minds. Don’t worry, though. As annoying as it is, this is a small problem that can instantly be solved with the help of a permanently pre-packed hygiene kit.

Or at least a packing list for creating one on the go.

Packing the Perfect Traveler's Hygiene Kit

Oral Hygiene

  1. Toothbrush. Let’s start with what we already mentioned. The toothbrush is a no-brainer, but did you know that you could save on space by getting one in a tiny size? Even in a foldable version?There is almost too many different sorts with different functions, and all of them only serve to clean your teeth! Still, a regular brush with a safety cap will serve most people just fine.
  2. Toothpaste. Buy a compact traveler’s tube; you won’t use it for too long. Alternatively, you can always be a little ahead of your time and buy toothpaste sachets or toothpaste tablets.

3.  Floss. Although its primary purpose is to keep your mouth clean, we are sure you will find at least a dozen other functions for this handy item. Using it as a string in a pinch to sew up holes and a temporary luggage lock are the first things to come to mind.

Hair and Body Wash

  1. Shampoo and Conditioner. Or better said – don’t bring both. Shampoo and conditioner bottles are large and crammy even when they are travel-sized, which is why 2-in-1 shampoo-conditioners were invented. Take advantage, and wrap your hair in a mask when you get back home if you really have to.
  2. Facial Skin Care. If you have problematic skin, then you will need to bring your facial regime with you wherever you go, in order not to ruin the results you’ve achieved before the trip. But as you are most likely changing climates, some alteration in your daily routine could be just fine. You will need something light and airy, and cleverly packaged to fit in your kit. Modern organic skin care products are the best in the market to cover the quirky packaging needs of constant travelers, and they feel better on the face. Look there before you hit the supermarket.Body wash. Soap or body wash, you know what suits you better. Traveling is dirty work, and dirty work calls for a healthy scrub. Once again, organic soaps are often better as they are more obviously infused with ingredients that soothe the skin, prevent inflammations, moisturize… whatever you may need. Shower gels are easier to pack than soap bars, so keep that in mind.

J_W_Hulme_dopp_kit

Shaving Kit

  1. Razor. Important for both ladies and gentlemen. Disposable razors are always a good enough option for traveling, so keep your fancy Braun back home. Ladies, of course, can take care of all shaving problems ahead by simply waxing before the trip, if the trip is a shorter one.
  2. Shaving cream. What’s a razor without a proper shaving cream? And if you’re sensitive, a mild aftershave lotion? This counts especially if you are going to a warm or wet climate, because sweat/water can be very uncomfortable upon freshly mis-shaven skin.

Paraphernalia

  1. Nail clippers. Don’t leave your house without them. Stainless steel ones are great for humid climates.
  2. Hairbrush. You can’t rely on the place you will be staying to have a brush. Bring one with you, especially if you’re an active traveler who does a lot of things in high winds. #tangled
  3. Lip balm. Cracked lips are not only unattractive, they are painful, too. Boy or girl, traveling without lip balm is fool’s work.

So, these are a few things we consider essential for any travel hygiene kit. Of course, your personal habits will maybe demand some additions to this list. Still, use this as a basis for your preparations and a quick check before you hit the road, just to be sure that you will have your toothbrush when you need it the most.

Travel Tech

Change the Way You Travel with Travel Apps

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What is the lowest common denominator of all good travel apps? They are here to help you with something that you didn’t even realize you need helping with. With the App Store and Google Play brimming with boldly advertised apps, it’s always good to separate truly useful ones from those that only serve to justify their developer’s existence.

Cheap data roaming

Whoever has burnt their fingers on accidental or unsuspecting data roaming escapade knows how ridiculously high phone companies charge even the simplest online tasks, like sending a mail or downloading a bus schedule. Onavo is an app that makes things straight. Installed, it significantly reduces the amount of data needed for everyday tasks like checking email and writing a Facebook post. The technology behind this valuable app is the developer’s secret, but one thing is for sure – it works amazingly well.

Change the Way You Travel with Travel Apps Onavo

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Personal travel assistant

Unless you belong to a lucky few who can afford a personal travel assistant, this multifunctional app is surely going to change the way you travel. Before you hit the road, forward all your travel related confirmation emails for booking flights, hotels, rent-a-car, restaurants, etc. to trips@worldmate.com and the app will automatically generate your whole trip plan. If you like WorldMate enough to upgrade to the premium version, it will continue to assist you by giving you real-time updates and alerts reminding you on delayed flights or other changes in your plan.

Change the Way You Travel with Travel Apps WorldMate

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Business expenses

All travelers, and especially the ones travelling on business benefit from a mobile expense management software like this. If you synchronize it with your credit cards and calendars, it can generate expense reports instead of you, by recording all transactions you make. Trippeo is optimized for use on the go, so it makes booking, tracking, reporting and reimbursement of business travels as simple as downloading a song from iTunes.

Change the Way You Travel with Travel Apps Trippeo

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Pack like a pro

If you are one of those travelers who always feel they need another suitcase this is the right app for you. Packing Pro is one of the kind app that helps you pack depending on your destination. Just type where you are going and how long you will stay there, and it will generate a list of suggested items that you may want to take. The items are sorted into groups like essentials, clothes, gadgets, cosmetics, and many more. If you input more family members or your boyfriend or girlfriend, the app will make separate lists for them, too.

Change the Way You Travel with Travel Apps PackingPro

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Hobo code

Although it earned its stripes as a social networking app, FourSquare was developed for travelers who like to go about, exploring the sites they visit from dawn till dusk. It works like a charm – when you arrive at the desire place, pop up the app and there you have a list of tips from those who have visited the location before you. For example if you look up Nicky’s Vietnamese Sandwiches, you can read a tip like “pork chop, pickled carrots, cucumber, cilantro and mayo on a toasted baguette” as a recommendation of a user who ate there. And also, you don’t have to create an account anymore if you want to use this app. Kudos!

Change the Way You Travel with Travel Apps Foursquare

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Check your App Store or Google Play for these travel apps and start downloading. Your trips will never be the same again.

Food

Cuba for the Foodies

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When speaking about ideal places for one’s vacation, most people will always envision a beautiful, heaven like a location in the Caribbean. Although for generations, Cuba served as a synonym for Caribbean paradise, political occurrences prevented it from ever developing into the most wanted Caribbean tourist destination. With the recent warming of the relationship between the U.S. and the Cuban government, this dreamlike island and all its wonders are once again open for foreign visitors.

Truth be told, Cuba is a place of incredible natural riches and dazzling landscapes. However, visiting a place and getting to really learn about it is not just about sightseeing. In order to get to really know a place, you must experience its culture, meet its people but above all else have a taste of local culture through its cuisine. When it comes to this, Cuba is second to none.

Best of Cuban cuisine

cuban sandwich

Treat yourself and take a culinary vacation to this incredible Caribbean island. Although its recent isolation damaged the Cuban economy somewhat, it influenced its cuisine for better. Because embargo prevented this country from importing many culinary supplies, it pushed local cooks and chefs into developing an even more autochthonous cuisine by relying solely on spices, vegetables and types of meat that were available to them locally. All of it had a part in making this otherwise unique cuisine even more authentic.

The way to start your day

Tasting a culture is not just about eating local but drinking local as well. Start your day with a Cubita, a local substitute for espresso or café con leche, based on your personal preference, in one of the local cafés. Add to this coffee a Cuban tostada, Cuban toast with butter, and there you have yourself a perfect and authentic local breakfast and experience.

Lunch in Cuba

Proceed with your culinary day in this Caribbean jewel by enjoying your lunch in one of the magnificent yet simple Cuban restaurants. Try the traditional empanada, as well as chicken or meat turnovers. Further complement your delicious dish with a side of mariquitas, thinly sliced plantain chips and you are bound to get a meal that you are unlikely to forget.

Another Cuban specialty, usually enjoyed for lunch, is the pan con bistec, a thin slice of palomilla steak on bread, which is then garnished with lettuce, tomatoes, and fried potato sticks on the side. One thing is for sure, regardless of what you decide on, you will certainly not regret it and it is quite possible you will urge to revel in Cuba’s culinary magnificence again as soon as possible.

Authentic Cuban snack and dinner

cuban dinner

Pastelitos, croquetas, and bocaditos are all delicious Cuban finger food, a specialty of Cuban chefs usually enjoyed as a delicious snack, to help you make it between a delicious Cuban lunch and a delicious Cuban dinner. Dinner usually consists of meat, most commonly chicken or fish accompanied with either white rice or black beans. For dessert, Cuban caramel-flavored custard is usually served; if not this, it is expected that its replacement will be one of the most curious local treats, rice pudding.

Each of these meals has its completely unique taste and every single one carries in itself its own little part of Cuba. Unfortunately, no holiday is long enough for one to taste them all. Still you are always welcome to return to Cuba over and over again, and with the wonderful weather, the authentic cultural vibe and the vintage cars – why wouldn’t you?

Food, Travel Tips

Traveling with Food Allergies

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Traveling has been revolutionized in the past 40-50 years, and it is becoming a possibility for a growing number of people all the time. The number of young people who have never left their region, even their country, is dropping with travel costs. However, there are still plenty of people who will never experience a worry-free trip. The number of people suffering from allergies is increasing, due to our overly clean and sanitized everyday life. Allergic reactions to food are not as common as reactions to pollen, but they are a big problem nonetheless, and one that people have to learn to live with. Several make a particular problem to travelers: gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance and the famous one that airline companies dread – nut allergies. A modern traveler has to be smart when preparing and carefully planning his or her journey.

bibimbap
BBQ Chicken Dolsot Bibimbap by Alpha
  1. Preparing oneself for possible and probable medical issues is a priority. Everyone affected should keep a list of medication on them in case trouble arises. Antihistamines and epinephrine are at the top of the list for people with serious food allergies. Gluten allergy may be a trend, but that doesn’t change the fact that there are people for whom gluten is a serious health threat. Whatever the problem, it is wise to keep anti-nausea medication and antacids close to hand. However, the best treatment is to avoid any food you suspect may have a problematic substance.
  2. A traveler needs to consider which airline they are flying with. Today, most companies prepare gluten-free, nut-free, any-other-allergen-free meals, but it is wise to get all the information before a flight, especially a long flight, and with a smaller airline company.
  3. Once the destination has been reached, it is important to have information about food-joints in the area. Are there restaurants that cater to your dietary restrictions? How stocked are the local markets? Again, it is wise to book a room close to a local market with fresh produce. Fresh fruit and vegetables are always the safest option, once they have been properly washed.
  4. One of my friends has a severe intolerance to gluten and he always books a room with a kitchenette, and one equipped with food-preparation utensils at that. This ties up with what has been mentioned above – once fresh food is bought, it is safest to prepare it in your own kitchen, where you are in charge of the water you use to clean everything.
  5. It is important to prepare all your dietary requirements on paper, in the local language. Perhaps you are planning a vacation in Thailand – everything regarding your health should be translated into Thai, and preferably typed on out for waiters and chefs to understand. But there is more. Food allergies sound like a joke to some less developed places, where few people suffer from them. In order not to sound like an annoying tourist that “should be taught a lesson”, never use the word wheat to describe your gluten intolerance. Specifically list products like “bread, pasta, pastries, flour” etc as something that you mustn’t eat, for very important, undisclosed reasons.
spices
Spicy by meaduva

Once the trip has come to an end, a digestive system cleanse is in order, whether or not you are sensitive to food. The best way to detox is through tea. Most detox tea ingredients act as anti-inflammatory, anti-infective, antioxidant, lymph system cleansers. They will wash out your intestines as if foreign food you’re unaccustomed to was never a problem.

Destinations

Beaches To Totally Move To

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Is there anything that can top a big move to the seaside? The clear sky above you, fine white sand caressing your feet, and the open sea breaking the horizon wherever you look. Why settle for a nice lawn and a driveway, when you can have one of the world’s most beautiful beaches as your back yard. There are several location that caught our eye as worth moving to, but the choice is all yours.

Thailand

One does not merely enter a conversation about Thailand without honoring its many scenic beaches. A month’s vacation in Thailand will get you a new beach to relax or party on each day. A more permanent solution will grant you an exotic but accepting culture to spend your days getting to know, and beaches and islands galore. Choosing between, say, Patong, Railey or Kata beaches, or the dazzling Maya bay is hard work, but with a little courage and enough wanderlust, you needn’t make the choice. Dropping your anchor in Thailand is a smart choice for longer periods as well as summer vacations. You could move to Thailand and enjoy a very affordable life and afford a very enjoyable climate.

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Fraser Island, Australia

Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island, a patchwork of pristine beaches and sand dunes set against an interior dense with vivid rain forests. Living on Fraser Island is not an option, but it is really close to mainland Australia, and a popular weekend getaway with the locals. There are plenty of fun things to do on Fraser Island, the most popular of which are 4 wheel drive tours along the dunes. It’s basically the Dakar Rally for mortals.

Nantucket Island, Massachusetts

One of the first beaches that pop into mind is Nantucket Island, Massachusetts. Some of the most beautiful North Atlantic landscapes can be seen from this island, and though it doesn’t seem bright and breezy, Nantucket Island beaches have that classical feel to them, like they are the perfect place to put up a permanent beach residence (step aside, Hamptons). With its remarkable sunsets and colorful lighthouses, this is the perfect place to get cozy and whimsical, the whole year round.

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Hawaii

Another great location of this kind is Hawaii. The many islands have to offer crystal clear and lush greenery that goes hand in hand with volcanic activity. The islands are tourist friendly, and a popular resort for Americans looking for a break away from it all, but shying away from leaving the country. The many resorts offer plenty of jobs for newcomers, as well as locals – a phenomenon explored and well-played out in the comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall.

Asia, Destinations, Editor's Picks

The Thailand Bucket List

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Thailand is a great destination, consisting of a little bit of something for everyone, regardless of whether they are a luxury traveler or adventurist. Whatever you thought of it, it is bound to exceed your expectations: Thailand is a country similar in size to Spain, and with its 66 million inhabitants, it is one of the 20 most populated countries in the world. We are going to try and write a bucket list worthy of this cultural giant, but it may seem a bit short and incomplete, and we apologize in advance. One would have to write a several novels in order to fit in all the amazing things you could do in Thailand.

Thailand
The Grand Palace

First things first, The Grand Palace. It was built in 1782 and has been home to the King of Thailand and his royal court for almost 150 years. This magnificent structure tells the tale of an indigenous culture, the only one never to be colonized by the Europeans, developed in the heart of the Malaysian peninsula – it is just as fascinating today as was in its earliest stages. It is truly a monument to the architecture and craftsmanship of the Thai. Its great walls hold the war ministry, state departments, and even the mint. Administrative centers of the country that are open to the public are a rarity, and it would be a shame to miss out on such a beautiful one.

Floating Market

One of the first things tourists do when they visiting other countries and cultures is hit the markets to see the local goods and try their hand at bartering. What makes this practice even more fun in Thailand is the fact that some markets float on the rivers. These curious floating markets consist of boats piled with tropical fruit and vegetables, fresh coconut juice and a colorful palette of local food. A spectacle that you would probably never find again in the world, and an attraction for all senses, Thailand’s floating markets are the definite crème de la crème of the country.

James Bond Island

The next on our list are the Phi Phi Islands. They are some of the most beautiful islands in the entire south-eastern Asia, and naturally, Thailand’s big tourist spot. Staying in the Phi Phi Islands might be too dramatic for most people, with the amount of traffic they get, but for the most relaxing, yet involved and gorgeous holiday, move to an amazing place somewhere on the mainland. Phuket is a good choice, with the ferryboat ride from there to the Phi Phis being 90 minutes of heaven. Getting to your destination, you will immediately start experiencing the perfection of life inside a postcard. It definitely is worth paying a visit.

Thailand is an exotic location near the equator, with beautiful weather, pristine beaches, and a sunny disposition. Everything is strange and spicy in this country, from the exquisite cuisine that has made its rounds in the world’s most prestige restaurants to the pleasant cultural shock all visitors are bound to discover. With bright colors, flowers, buildings and people, what is there not to love in this heaven on earth?

Australia, Destinations

Sailing around Australia

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We are great and we are many, from all the lands on Earth we come. Aren’t you lucky to be an Australia. Living in one of the most prosperous countries, with some of the most laid back people on the planet. That’s not actually surprising considering you live in one of the most beautiful places on this planet. Surrounded by oceans, you can surf away your problems any time of day. But what about other recreational sports? You might also enjoy sailing perhaps. And luckily for you, there are so many beautiful places where you can sail of to for a bit of rest and relaxation. The land of Lord of the Rings might be a bit to far off, but there are many other places much closer you can visit.

australia

Aussies as known in the world for their curiosity and bold exploration of the world. If you are an adventurous soul yourself, you might feel tempted to go and seek what the world has to give you. If that is the case, consider also going around the continent a bit… Sailing around the block has become somewhat of a popular thing, but if you decide on doing this, be careful- Australian waters can be very dangerous. If you opt for it, make sure you have a boat that was built well, proper training and a license, and some experience as another man’s crew member, before sailing your own boat.

Fraser Islands
In the foot of Queensland lay the biggest sand island in the world, a World Heritage site since 1992. This popular destination is the home of rain forests, eucalyptus woodland, wallum peat and swamps, but also plants, a small number of mammal species, birds, reptiles and a population of about 200 people. It was named after Eliza Fraser, a hero from many shipwreck survivor stories, and today, it is a very popular tourist destination.

Whitsunday Islands
The Whitsundays is a group of more than 150 islands and islets surrounded by brilliant turquoise-colored waters off the sub-tropical central coast.  With the cloudless skies, azure seas, this place has become a prime holiday hotspot for visitors around the globe. Much of this half-drowned mountain range belongs to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, one of the seven wonders of the natural world, and a general bucket list topper. Don’t be surprised at the sight of coral gardens, colorful fish and chipper sea-turtles- it’s all something that you will find in postcard-scenic paradise. Just cruise around on your boat and the advantage of the freedom you have, go diving, snorkeling, star fish hunting, etc.

Magnetic Islands
This short adventure will take you about 20 minutes off the coast of Townsville. Enjoy the relaxed tropical lifestyle, quite nature, and beautiful untouched beaches. This would be a perfect short trip for releasing your artistic side. Get inspired by the colorful and lively wildlife, there is nothing quite like it.

Tasmania
Finally, at the foot of Australia, it will take a bit more than a sailing novice to get to this infamous island, the home of the Tasmanian devil. With around 45% of the country lying in reserves, natural parks, etc, it is no wonder why they call Tasmania “A World Apart”. This trip might be a bit of a longer one, seeing as though this island has so much to offer, but then again, it surely won’t be time wasted.