Best Reads: February 2014

The end of February brings with it a ton of snow in Vancouver. It’s shocking. We never get snow and definitely not at the end of Vancouver. Pretty to look at, but otherwise a big nuisance. The Olympics have been playing out over TV screens across the world and life stopped for awhile in Canada as both the Women and Men’s hockey team defended their gold medals. Nothing like waking up at 4 am to catch the game. As winter turns into fall, I’m excited to see where life takes me.

Go Canada Go! Photo courtesy of Mike Browne.

Around Here and Elsewhere

I’ve been dreaming of being able to ski the Alps since I first learned how to ski. I finally made it happen. It wasn’t as memorable as I thought it would be, but I still had a blast. I’ve started sharing some of the interesting things I got up to while in Budapest, like visiting Szimpla Kert for its Farmer’s Market and visiting a Michelin Star restaurant. Not to mention, why you should go to Budapest in the winter.

When I’m flying, I love looking out the window, especially on cloudless days. You gain such perspective and appreciation for the beauty of Earth from 30,000 feet. This post that I contributed to at Guess This City highlights the beauty that can be seen from your airplane window. Can you spot my shot?

Destination

Brasov Rooftops. Photo: Horia Varlan

Brasov: The Gem of Transylvania

These photos of Brasov are absolutely stunning. I had always meant to go to Transylvania while living in Budapest, but just wasn’t able to make it happen. Soon!

5 Amazing Encounters with Galapagos Animals

Another place that I’ve always wanted to visit are the Galapagos. Adam was able to get some up close and personal interactions with the animals in this natural wonder.

Quirky Attraction: Toilet Seat Art Museum

Have you ever wanted to visit a museum dedicated to the toilet seat? Well you can in San Antonio Texas! Barney Smith turns toilet seats into art each with its own unique story.

I Went to Vang Vieng and Didn’t Go Tubing: Fed Up with Tourists and the Takeover of Tourism

I’ve heard many things about Vang Vieng, mostly bad, but some good. This is a completely different take on the town.

Journey

That Time I Was Robbed in a Hostel Dorm

Have you ever had anything stolen in your travels? Read about Olivia’s experience. I would have been in utter shock.

Victim Blaming and the Dangers of Solo Travel

With many disappearances lately of travelers at home and on the road, this article brings up a good point on safety and solo travel. Read this post from Twenty-Something Travel for a real breakdown of safety in Mexico.

How Can I Afford to Travel and How Much Money I Earn From Travel Blogging

Sab over at Just One Way Ticket breaks down her reality of how she handles her money. A fascinating read, especially for those who are looking to become location independent.

Eat

Delicious tapas Photo: Jessica Spengler

Culinary Nirvana – A Food Tour of Northern Spain
Everything in this post looks absolutely delicious. One of my good friends is from Spain and she introduced me to Patata Bravas which is the best thing ever.

Central Asia Food: Welcome to Omnomistan
The -stans of Central Asia are so fascinating to me. Especially their food. While much of it looks familiar to me, with its similarities to some Chinese foods, the flavours and ingredients are completely different. This is a great look into all the foreign sounded foods to be had in Central Asia.

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