Maybe it's an off day or maybe it's just me but I'm feeling a little overwhelmed, not in a good way. The reality of having to live in Italy for the next unknown amount of time, not knowing the language, and being away from the comforts of home AND Ashleigh AND not traveling around like I have been for the last month is just not a settling feeling right now. I know what you're thinking. I'm in Rome. I should be having the time of my life. But my reality is a snowy and busy city, filled with people freaking out because they aren't used to snow either. Half of everything is closed or blocked off because of the weather while I am trying my best just to stay warm. I escape the cold weather outside and come home to a COLD hostel, therefor not escaping at all. Cold hostel, and the other hostels in the area dont have great reviews either. Haha... Of all the places it could've snowed while I was traveling, it snows here. Really?? Really!?! I do love Rome and I've seen the most beautiful things here, more beautiful than any other city I've been in. I'm walking through an alley way and a random piazza appears with larger than life statues or fountains or ruins. Hands down, the most breathtaking. No other city I've been to looks quite like Rome. Truly one of a kind. BUT.... I think I would enjoy it better in the spring or summer. When the natural circumstances are different. It's hard to enjoy a city I know I would appreciate more at a later time.
But it's not just the weather. It's the realization that I know all of maybe 10 words in Italian and I know nothing about their way of life. Yes, I can learn, and learn I will. But it's discouraging to know I'm at the very very beginning. There isn't much more of a beginning than where I am right now. Haha. And then I think of home, and how EASY it is to live and get around and do whatever I want or need because I'm used to it. It makes me miss my own bed, shower, room, kitchen, car, etc. ahhhhh, I'm just having a moment. Let me have my moment of ridiculousness. Anyone that has traveled outside of the US knows how I feel right now.
Think what you want, call me an idiot. Fine. Haha but I'm just pretty frustrated. I've gained so much strength and I still find myself needing more. Or clarity just to appreciate what I have in front of me and forget all the other non sense. Either way, I need rest and to recharge my batteries.
Good night big beautiful world
2.04.2012
2.03.2012
La dolce vita
What a day what a day what a day!! Wowwwwwwww!!! Experienced my first snowfall... And it was in ROMA!!!!! Even the locals were in awe since they said it never snows here. It snowed allll day, but thank god we were inside for most of it, touring the Vatican, which is another reason my day was incredible. The Vatican. THEE Vatican. Are you kidding me!?! Never did I ever think I, Ashley Cramer from Pasadena, would be touring the Vatican, and on one of the rare snow days that Rome has. But it gets better, oh yes it does my friends. I finally was able to contact Chef Sartini, who I will be working for in less than 9 days. I've been trying to get a hold of him (whether it was me finding a phone to call with, figuring out the correct country codes, or having wifi/service to get the call to go through) for a few days now. And I finally got through! Want to hear my plan of attack?? Yeah you do! Here is how it went:
Woke up this morning at 9am with a pit in my stomach, thinking of finding a way to get a hold of chef, my language barrier, the cold weather, usual travel worries, etc. I remembered I was in ROME and getting ready to tour the Vatican, so I smiled and wore 3 pairs of socks, 2 pairs of pants, tank top, long sleeve, turtle neck, 2 coats and my down jacket topped off with my scarf and hat. I was ready. We sardine canned ourselves into the metro and got to the travel agency with whom we booked the tour with. The guy at the desk said we were waiting for a few others to join and we would start the tour in 30 minutes. So ash and I went next door to the cafe with free wifi and sucked down our tea and cappuccino. I meanwhile tried to call chef (from Ash's phone) and Skype call him (after purchasing $10 worth of minutes) and still couldn't get the call to connect. Our tour was just about to start so I had to give up. Feeling anxious and somewhat defeated (I was suppose to call him 3 days ago), ash said " ask the travel agency to help". GENIUS! I asked the guy at the desk if he could help me call a San Marino phone number and not only did he help, but he let me use his phone AND THEN translated the whole conversation for me, setting up a time and date to meet up (that was also the moment I found out my future boss speaks only Italian)! I thanked him over and over for his help and went on my way to the tour, feeling very excited and thankful.
Then reality hit: my boss only speaks Italian. Ohhhh godddddd. I figured as much but a small bit of me hoped (prayed!) that there would be a miracle and he spoke both English and Italian. Nope. Not so much. Soooo although my job thing is settled, I'm still feeling unsettled. How in the hell am I suppose to do a good job (my job or any job) if I don't understand what is even being asked of me? I knew of all these things before I got here but I think reality just hit me hard. Like a thick thick wall... Oooh boy. As I usually ask myself: what did I really just get myself into?? Haha is funny as much as it is frightening.
Anyways, let's back it up a bit. Barcelona was such a great environment! Ashleigh and i got in to many deep conversations over wine/coffee about the past, our traveling, the future and fate. We felt very connected to Barcelona and learned so much in our 3.5 days there. Our last day was spent with our new friend Juan, who we met through Tincho, showing us Gaudí's Park Güell, la boqueria, la rambla, and small alley ways in Barcelona. Beautiful day and I wouldn't ask for any other ending. We did the touristy park, the food lovers market, and the local's street shopping which was awesome! My favorite, of course, was the boqueria, which had the most insane ingredients used for the local cuisine. I saw all kinds of organ meats/ meats (hearts, livers, stomachs, tripe, pig feet, heads, cow tongue, etc), cheeses, produce and more. Definitely one of my favorite markets so far (along with the borough market in London). Ash, Juan and I took turns buying cheese, olives, bread, prosciutto, strawberries, avocado and tomato that we prepared for our dinner that night. We had a wonderful finger food spread back at the hostel, where we ate the fresh market food, sipped red wine and the Sauternes I bought in Paris, and talked about travels. It was a great way to end our awesome time in Barcelona. We both fell in love with the city and it's people and were sad to leave (yeah, we actually did shed a few tears)! Thank you Juan for showing us around and letting us be tourists :)
We arrived in Roma, around 9pm so it was dark and we couldn't see any of the city. We found our way to the hostel, a few blocks from the train station we were at, and immediately asked for a good place to eat. Half a block away, we entered our first Italian eating experience. Oh. My. God. FAMILY!!! Doesn't matter who you are or where you come from, you're family. And I'm assuming because we were two blondes entering a literally underground Italian restaurant that we stuck out pretty easily. I attempted speaking Italian to which the server smiled at every time I spoke, probably because I sounded like an idiot. But I spoke anyways. We ordered risotto and carbonara and a bottle of chianti. There was a boom box in the corner of the room playing 80s music and a bunch of Italian men sitting at a table nearby, trying to smile and get our attention. I was smiling so much; the whole vibe of the restaurant cracked me up!! I loved it. The server brought us complimentary limoncello and then the table of Italian men came over to pour us more limoncello! They wanted to know where we were from and talked to us briefly. As customers left the restaurant, they would leave and say ciao or buona sera to EVERYONE upon exiting. Sooo much fun. I loved my first Italian experience and will remember it forever.
Yesterday, we toured the colosseum and saw a lot of ancient ruins. It hit us that we were in one of the oldest cities in the world. This was the first time that we cold actually see the sitting since arriving and we were blown away. We ate pizza, bruschetta and beer for lunch for 10€ and then for dinner we had pasta, soup and a giant bottle of wine for 14€. Crazy!!! I love the atmosphere here. Is scary and different but I like it. Italians are in their own little world and they love it which makes me love it. :)
Ashleigh and I also met a nun today who we didn't know was a nun until we were done talking to her, she introduced herself as sister Maria. She was all bundled up and talked to us about Italy through an american perspective since she was from Philadelphia. We told her about us, me being a cook and Ashleigh being a dancer and she told us how much she appreciated our art. At the end, she said " I would wish you luck but I don't believe in luck. I believe in destiny. And I want the two of you to chase your destiny." The whole conversation made me smile. Because last night, over our pasta and soup, Ashleigh and I toasted our wine to being here officially for four weeks. About a month now. And I quickly took out my journal and wrote before I forgot the train of thought in the heat of the moment:
It has been 4 weeks since we left home. We flashed back to where we were. The first thought I had was a flashback to the airport in LA where I first carried my bags. The first time I carried my future life on my shoulder and in my hand. I had no idea what I was getting in to. No idea what I would taste, see, smell, or feel. I held my own life, my self, and my bags for the first time and I was scared. I was excited, but scared. And here I am now, having been through what I've been through, stronger, braver and more confident in who I am. One month ago, I could not have said that and here we are now, different people. This has been the longest, most challenging month of my entire life. Easily. And here we are smiling and toasting over spaghetti and soup in one of the oldest cities
Cheers!
Woke up this morning at 9am with a pit in my stomach, thinking of finding a way to get a hold of chef, my language barrier, the cold weather, usual travel worries, etc. I remembered I was in ROME and getting ready to tour the Vatican, so I smiled and wore 3 pairs of socks, 2 pairs of pants, tank top, long sleeve, turtle neck, 2 coats and my down jacket topped off with my scarf and hat. I was ready. We sardine canned ourselves into the metro and got to the travel agency with whom we booked the tour with. The guy at the desk said we were waiting for a few others to join and we would start the tour in 30 minutes. So ash and I went next door to the cafe with free wifi and sucked down our tea and cappuccino. I meanwhile tried to call chef (from Ash's phone) and Skype call him (after purchasing $10 worth of minutes) and still couldn't get the call to connect. Our tour was just about to start so I had to give up. Feeling anxious and somewhat defeated (I was suppose to call him 3 days ago), ash said " ask the travel agency to help". GENIUS! I asked the guy at the desk if he could help me call a San Marino phone number and not only did he help, but he let me use his phone AND THEN translated the whole conversation for me, setting up a time and date to meet up (that was also the moment I found out my future boss speaks only Italian)! I thanked him over and over for his help and went on my way to the tour, feeling very excited and thankful.
Then reality hit: my boss only speaks Italian. Ohhhh godddddd. I figured as much but a small bit of me hoped (prayed!) that there would be a miracle and he spoke both English and Italian. Nope. Not so much. Soooo although my job thing is settled, I'm still feeling unsettled. How in the hell am I suppose to do a good job (my job or any job) if I don't understand what is even being asked of me? I knew of all these things before I got here but I think reality just hit me hard. Like a thick thick wall... Oooh boy. As I usually ask myself: what did I really just get myself into?? Haha is funny as much as it is frightening.
Anyways, let's back it up a bit. Barcelona was such a great environment! Ashleigh and i got in to many deep conversations over wine/coffee about the past, our traveling, the future and fate. We felt very connected to Barcelona and learned so much in our 3.5 days there. Our last day was spent with our new friend Juan, who we met through Tincho, showing us Gaudí's Park Güell, la boqueria, la rambla, and small alley ways in Barcelona. Beautiful day and I wouldn't ask for any other ending. We did the touristy park, the food lovers market, and the local's street shopping which was awesome! My favorite, of course, was the boqueria, which had the most insane ingredients used for the local cuisine. I saw all kinds of organ meats/ meats (hearts, livers, stomachs, tripe, pig feet, heads, cow tongue, etc), cheeses, produce and more. Definitely one of my favorite markets so far (along with the borough market in London). Ash, Juan and I took turns buying cheese, olives, bread, prosciutto, strawberries, avocado and tomato that we prepared for our dinner that night. We had a wonderful finger food spread back at the hostel, where we ate the fresh market food, sipped red wine and the Sauternes I bought in Paris, and talked about travels. It was a great way to end our awesome time in Barcelona. We both fell in love with the city and it's people and were sad to leave (yeah, we actually did shed a few tears)! Thank you Juan for showing us around and letting us be tourists :)
We arrived in Roma, around 9pm so it was dark and we couldn't see any of the city. We found our way to the hostel, a few blocks from the train station we were at, and immediately asked for a good place to eat. Half a block away, we entered our first Italian eating experience. Oh. My. God. FAMILY!!! Doesn't matter who you are or where you come from, you're family. And I'm assuming because we were two blondes entering a literally underground Italian restaurant that we stuck out pretty easily. I attempted speaking Italian to which the server smiled at every time I spoke, probably because I sounded like an idiot. But I spoke anyways. We ordered risotto and carbonara and a bottle of chianti. There was a boom box in the corner of the room playing 80s music and a bunch of Italian men sitting at a table nearby, trying to smile and get our attention. I was smiling so much; the whole vibe of the restaurant cracked me up!! I loved it. The server brought us complimentary limoncello and then the table of Italian men came over to pour us more limoncello! They wanted to know where we were from and talked to us briefly. As customers left the restaurant, they would leave and say ciao or buona sera to EVERYONE upon exiting. Sooo much fun. I loved my first Italian experience and will remember it forever.
Yesterday, we toured the colosseum and saw a lot of ancient ruins. It hit us that we were in one of the oldest cities in the world. This was the first time that we cold actually see the sitting since arriving and we were blown away. We ate pizza, bruschetta and beer for lunch for 10€ and then for dinner we had pasta, soup and a giant bottle of wine for 14€. Crazy!!! I love the atmosphere here. Is scary and different but I like it. Italians are in their own little world and they love it which makes me love it. :)
Ashleigh and I also met a nun today who we didn't know was a nun until we were done talking to her, she introduced herself as sister Maria. She was all bundled up and talked to us about Italy through an american perspective since she was from Philadelphia. We told her about us, me being a cook and Ashleigh being a dancer and she told us how much she appreciated our art. At the end, she said " I would wish you luck but I don't believe in luck. I believe in destiny. And I want the two of you to chase your destiny." The whole conversation made me smile. Because last night, over our pasta and soup, Ashleigh and I toasted our wine to being here officially for four weeks. About a month now. And I quickly took out my journal and wrote before I forgot the train of thought in the heat of the moment:
It has been 4 weeks since we left home. We flashed back to where we were. The first thought I had was a flashback to the airport in LA where I first carried my bags. The first time I carried my future life on my shoulder and in my hand. I had no idea what I was getting in to. No idea what I would taste, see, smell, or feel. I held my own life, my self, and my bags for the first time and I was scared. I was excited, but scared. And here I am now, having been through what I've been through, stronger, braver and more confident in who I am. One month ago, I could not have said that and here we are now, different people. This has been the longest, most challenging month of my entire life. Easily. And here we are smiling and toasting over spaghetti and soup in one of the oldest cities
Cheers!
1.31.2012
Barcelona!!!
From Paris, Ashleigh and I caught a 7 hour train to Barcelona. We traveled through the south of France, seeing some of the most beautiful scenery we had seen yet. Catching the train at 715am, we were able to watch the sun rise (since that happens way late over here) along the rolling green hills with randomly placed villages and farm animals. We traveled right over a river for about 10 minutes that reflected the sun so brightly it was blinding. With both of us sitting there, listening to music, writing in our journals and napping occasionally, we were blown away by the natural beauty that you think only exists in movies. Unreal. I tried taking pictures but of course through a train window, the pictures are maybe half as beautiful as they should be.
We got to our Barcelona hostel with no problems, noting how easy it was AND celebrating the first time of our travel plans went as planned. Cheering outside the hostel door, the front desk receptionist opened the door for us, checked us in and carried my luggage up the stairs to our room for me, something I had not experienced since London. It warmed my heart and I knew we would like Barcelona already. Ash and I went out immediately, wandering aimlessly through narrow alleyways and beautifully architected neighborhoods. We ate a tapas style dinner, including sangria and then went back to the hostel to go back out with our new roommates, two guys from Turkey!! Our first day was a success and we quickly got over the fact that our 6 bed room was coed. It makes for a lot of fun :)
So over the next day we went to Casa Batlló, one of Gaudi's creations, and marveled at the uniqueness of the structure. It was incredible, with a breathtaking view on the rooftop. The casa was colorful and distracting, with everything in a circular shape or looking like an element of the sea. We then walked over to Sagrada Família, another Gaudí creation that's still under construction. We didn't go inside, since admission prices are 15-20€ each time, but we stood and drooled over the outer layer. So insanely different from anything I've seen before. Ashleigh and I then walked down to the beach (yes, cautious of pickpocketers) and devoured the best (and my first) paella!! We splurged on lobster paella because we felt we deserved it. Haha. Delicious!!!!! So warming and comforting. We headed back to the hostel only to discover there was more fun waiting for us.
Tincho. A hostel employee named Tincho (teen-cho, for some of you ;)). A 22 year old dreadlocked bartender here from Argentina, fully able and willing to show us around the hidden areas of Barcelona and open our minds to the beauty of life ( I wonder how many times I've said "beauty" or "beautiful" in this blog). Listening to his reggae, French, tribal and rock mix on his iPod, he made us the best mojitos and we discussed plans for the remaining days of our trip. He is incredible and reminds me a LOT of my friend Max back home: a true hippy with a beautiful soul, wanting to taste everything the world has to offer.
The next morning, Ashleigh forced me into going to yoga with her. After staying up late, I was dreading it but then I thought of ALL the times I made her eat more than she could or taste something she really didn't want to( even though she has loved everything I've made her try) and I knew yoga was the least I could do. We went to a little studio, located in what looked like an apartment building, and had an hour and a half awesome yoga session in Spanish. I barely understood what was going on as the instructor had to help me out a few times but I realized that things like yoga are a universal language. I relaxed and enjoyed watching and following everyone around me, probably looking like a damn fool, but stretching and finally relieving the pain in my back. Thanks ash for making me go!! So worth it
We came back to the hostel and met with Tincho where he then showed us hidden pathways and markets and then took us to the best lunch location: champangeria!!!! Wowwwwwww!!! We ate and drank delicious food for a great price. It was a little tiny shop, crowded and full of people, with a similar vibe of Philippes back in LA. Basically standing room only, we found a place by the wall and devoured a chorizo sandwich, two ham/tomato jam sandwiches, a cheese sandwich and two bottles of champagne, one Demi sec and the other rosé. Ahhhh, I loved that place!! The vibe, the food, the company...all unforgettable. Tincho is really incredible and such a beautiful person on the inside that it glistens all the way through to the outside. So open minded, free spirited, and laid back. He took us back to his apartment where we met his roommates and friends, sat on his 5th floor balcony drinking beer, watching the sunset, and exchanging Spanish and English words and jokes. One of my favorite moments of the entire trip was sitting there, on a balcony in Barcelona, in the company of good people, talking about anything. My liberated feeling that has been growing for a few weeks now was at an all time high.
Ashleigh and I went back to the hostel where we lounged around and watched a movie, falling asleep on the couch. We feel so at home here in Barcelona that all the touristy things seem secondary. We are enjoying all the things we stumble upon but aren't neccissarily going out of our way to find them. We slept in today and are now headed to the beach with Tincho; we are taking our time and feeling like locals! Yes!!!!
My favorite moments here and in all of Europe is during the most simple of times, usually involving me walking somewhere or standing and gazing at something mind blowing. The wind hits just right and I get this surge of energy that rushes through me. I feel liberated and humbled and I can't help but smile. Europe is changing me and the way I view life. So much so that I can feel my own difference inside. Coming here was the best decision I've made.
We got to our Barcelona hostel with no problems, noting how easy it was AND celebrating the first time of our travel plans went as planned. Cheering outside the hostel door, the front desk receptionist opened the door for us, checked us in and carried my luggage up the stairs to our room for me, something I had not experienced since London. It warmed my heart and I knew we would like Barcelona already. Ash and I went out immediately, wandering aimlessly through narrow alleyways and beautifully architected neighborhoods. We ate a tapas style dinner, including sangria and then went back to the hostel to go back out with our new roommates, two guys from Turkey!! Our first day was a success and we quickly got over the fact that our 6 bed room was coed. It makes for a lot of fun :)
So over the next day we went to Casa Batlló, one of Gaudi's creations, and marveled at the uniqueness of the structure. It was incredible, with a breathtaking view on the rooftop. The casa was colorful and distracting, with everything in a circular shape or looking like an element of the sea. We then walked over to Sagrada Família, another Gaudí creation that's still under construction. We didn't go inside, since admission prices are 15-20€ each time, but we stood and drooled over the outer layer. So insanely different from anything I've seen before. Ashleigh and I then walked down to the beach (yes, cautious of pickpocketers) and devoured the best (and my first) paella!! We splurged on lobster paella because we felt we deserved it. Haha. Delicious!!!!! So warming and comforting. We headed back to the hostel only to discover there was more fun waiting for us.
Tincho. A hostel employee named Tincho (teen-cho, for some of you ;)). A 22 year old dreadlocked bartender here from Argentina, fully able and willing to show us around the hidden areas of Barcelona and open our minds to the beauty of life ( I wonder how many times I've said "beauty" or "beautiful" in this blog). Listening to his reggae, French, tribal and rock mix on his iPod, he made us the best mojitos and we discussed plans for the remaining days of our trip. He is incredible and reminds me a LOT of my friend Max back home: a true hippy with a beautiful soul, wanting to taste everything the world has to offer.
The next morning, Ashleigh forced me into going to yoga with her. After staying up late, I was dreading it but then I thought of ALL the times I made her eat more than she could or taste something she really didn't want to( even though she has loved everything I've made her try) and I knew yoga was the least I could do. We went to a little studio, located in what looked like an apartment building, and had an hour and a half awesome yoga session in Spanish. I barely understood what was going on as the instructor had to help me out a few times but I realized that things like yoga are a universal language. I relaxed and enjoyed watching and following everyone around me, probably looking like a damn fool, but stretching and finally relieving the pain in my back. Thanks ash for making me go!! So worth it
We came back to the hostel and met with Tincho where he then showed us hidden pathways and markets and then took us to the best lunch location: champangeria!!!! Wowwwwwww!!! We ate and drank delicious food for a great price. It was a little tiny shop, crowded and full of people, with a similar vibe of Philippes back in LA. Basically standing room only, we found a place by the wall and devoured a chorizo sandwich, two ham/tomato jam sandwiches, a cheese sandwich and two bottles of champagne, one Demi sec and the other rosé. Ahhhh, I loved that place!! The vibe, the food, the company...all unforgettable. Tincho is really incredible and such a beautiful person on the inside that it glistens all the way through to the outside. So open minded, free spirited, and laid back. He took us back to his apartment where we met his roommates and friends, sat on his 5th floor balcony drinking beer, watching the sunset, and exchanging Spanish and English words and jokes. One of my favorite moments of the entire trip was sitting there, on a balcony in Barcelona, in the company of good people, talking about anything. My liberated feeling that has been growing for a few weeks now was at an all time high.
Ashleigh and I went back to the hostel where we lounged around and watched a movie, falling asleep on the couch. We feel so at home here in Barcelona that all the touristy things seem secondary. We are enjoying all the things we stumble upon but aren't neccissarily going out of our way to find them. We slept in today and are now headed to the beach with Tincho; we are taking our time and feeling like locals! Yes!!!!
My favorite moments here and in all of Europe is during the most simple of times, usually involving me walking somewhere or standing and gazing at something mind blowing. The wind hits just right and I get this surge of energy that rushes through me. I feel liberated and humbled and I can't help but smile. Europe is changing me and the way I view life. So much so that I can feel my own difference inside. Coming here was the best decision I've made.
1.27.2012
Eating through Paris
I've literally eaten my way through Paris. Of course, I have enjoyed seeing Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower twice, Sacre Coeur, Versailles, Moulin Rouge, Luvre, and other beautiful monumens but the most fun memories have been all the eating and drinking. The French know how to eat. They know good food. Real food. Real butter, real cheese, real bread, real coffee, etc etc etc. I could go on alllllll day about how great everything tastes but honestly, it's something you have to experience. None of my words or descriptions would do it justice. Strong vocabulary won't put the flakey, buttery, dissolving croissant taste in your mouth. Or the salty, creamy yet chewy hot soup l'oignon gratinee. Or even the crunch of the baguette that's still warm, covered in salty sweet goat cheese with fig jam on top. None of my words would work. And most definitely, none of my words would make you feel the feeling I get when sitting at a French cafe, sipping some variety of red wine, devouring a giant bowl of marinated mussels, and talking about life and future plans with Ashleigh as we enjoy the Parisian view. It simply can not be explained. I can't wait to upload all my photos to share so at least a visual would help. Because after 6 or so days, I've learned that Paris isn't a word or description. Or even an idea. Its a feeling. And it's a taste. A beautiful taste. So different and so real!!
As far as sightseeing goes, the Château Versailles was definitely something worth seeing. The amount of gold dripped on EVERYTHING makes you feel very luxurious( and also makes you realize how much of a douche Louis XIV was ;) ). I enjoyed walking through the palace and the gardens, even as it rained, but I especially enjoyed the baguette with framboise jam and cheese Ashleigh and I shared while waiting to get it. But then again, that's just me. The Eiffel Tower is breathtaking. It's a big monument that represents Paris; it is the iconic figure that everyone knows Paris for. It's a tourist trap and it's windy and cold at the top but being there and seeing it is a reality check: you are in PARIS!!! Ahhhh!!! But once again, of course, my favorite part of seeing the Eiffel Tower was sitting on the wall, across the street with a perfect view, eating popcorn with Ashleigh and having it blow away and spill in the wind just as the tower lit up. Perfect timing. Heh. And the St. Chappelle cathedral was gorgeous, definitely one of my favorites. The walls are covered in stained glass windows which gives the room a vibrant, colorful feel, even on our cloudy rainy day. Definitely a must see.
Ahhhh, Paris!! Too much for words. So beautiful and tasty!! Tonight, I hope to score a rotisserie chicken, some red wine and spend time with Ashleigh and our Australian friend, Hamish. Its our last night here and it will be enjoyed to the fullest, just like every other day :D
As far as sightseeing goes, the Château Versailles was definitely something worth seeing. The amount of gold dripped on EVERYTHING makes you feel very luxurious( and also makes you realize how much of a douche Louis XIV was ;) ). I enjoyed walking through the palace and the gardens, even as it rained, but I especially enjoyed the baguette with framboise jam and cheese Ashleigh and I shared while waiting to get it. But then again, that's just me. The Eiffel Tower is breathtaking. It's a big monument that represents Paris; it is the iconic figure that everyone knows Paris for. It's a tourist trap and it's windy and cold at the top but being there and seeing it is a reality check: you are in PARIS!!! Ahhhh!!! But once again, of course, my favorite part of seeing the Eiffel Tower was sitting on the wall, across the street with a perfect view, eating popcorn with Ashleigh and having it blow away and spill in the wind just as the tower lit up. Perfect timing. Heh. And the St. Chappelle cathedral was gorgeous, definitely one of my favorites. The walls are covered in stained glass windows which gives the room a vibrant, colorful feel, even on our cloudy rainy day. Definitely a must see.
Ahhhh, Paris!! Too much for words. So beautiful and tasty!! Tonight, I hope to score a rotisserie chicken, some red wine and spend time with Ashleigh and our Australian friend, Hamish. Its our last night here and it will be enjoyed to the fullest, just like every other day :D
1.26.2012
French food
Day 1:
1- crepe with butter, sugar and lemon
2- mulled wine
3- croissant au buerre, cafe, cheese plate with Camembert, Roquefort, comté
4- beef tartare (egg yolk, onions, capers, pickles), Bordeaux wine
5- 2.90€ bottle of wine
Day 2:
1- beignet aux pommes, cappuccino
2- ham, butter and cheese baguette
3- French onion soup, fries, souffle with creme anglaise, cote du Rhone wine
4- crepe with nutella and banana
5- champagne, prosciutto with olives and Swiss, potato fries/chips
6- the rest of the 2.90€ wine
Day 3:
1- cereal and tea
2- baguette, French taleggio cheese (name unknown), framboise jam
3- glass of rosé, shared bottle of pay d'or chardonnay, fries
4- Ashley Hinton pasta and wine
5- chocolate crepe, shared 1/2 bottle of Bordeaux wine
6- chocolate hazelnut bar
Day 4:
1- aveyronnaise salad with fattened duck, Roquefort,nuts and toasted bread, cappuccino
2- vanilla and pistachio macaroon
3- earl grey tea
4- 5.90€ red wine, fig goat cheese, croissant
5- escargot, foie gras green bean salad, shared bottle of Chardonnay, chocolate mousse
Day 5:
1- xxl croquet monsieur, fries, salad, cappuccino
2- marinated mussels with fries, shared bottle of beaujolais
3- nutella and almond crepe, shared bottle of Cabernet franc
Day 6:
1- chocolate and almond croissant, cappuccino
2- apple, baguette, chèvre rolled in golden raisin and currants, Camembert, peppercorn camembert
2- hopefully a rotisserie chicken!!!
Tomorrow:
1- 20 lbs fatter
2- tight jeans
3- happy traveler
1- crepe with butter, sugar and lemon
2- mulled wine
3- croissant au buerre, cafe, cheese plate with Camembert, Roquefort, comté
4- beef tartare (egg yolk, onions, capers, pickles), Bordeaux wine
5- 2.90€ bottle of wine
Day 2:
1- beignet aux pommes, cappuccino
2- ham, butter and cheese baguette
3- French onion soup, fries, souffle with creme anglaise, cote du Rhone wine
4- crepe with nutella and banana
5- champagne, prosciutto with olives and Swiss, potato fries/chips
6- the rest of the 2.90€ wine
Day 3:
1- cereal and tea
2- baguette, French taleggio cheese (name unknown), framboise jam
3- glass of rosé, shared bottle of pay d'or chardonnay, fries
4- Ashley Hinton pasta and wine
5- chocolate crepe, shared 1/2 bottle of Bordeaux wine
6- chocolate hazelnut bar
Day 4:
1- aveyronnaise salad with fattened duck, Roquefort,nuts and toasted bread, cappuccino
2- vanilla and pistachio macaroon
3- earl grey tea
4- 5.90€ red wine, fig goat cheese, croissant
5- escargot, foie gras green bean salad, shared bottle of Chardonnay, chocolate mousse
Day 5:
1- xxl croquet monsieur, fries, salad, cappuccino
2- marinated mussels with fries, shared bottle of beaujolais
3- nutella and almond crepe, shared bottle of Cabernet franc
Day 6:
1- chocolate and almond croissant, cappuccino
2- apple, baguette, chèvre rolled in golden raisin and currants, Camembert, peppercorn camembert
2- hopefully a rotisserie chicken!!!
Tomorrow:
1- 20 lbs fatter
2- tight jeans
3- happy traveler
1.25.2012
Giant sun
I just had a break through moment. Everything hit me at once and I pulled out my journal and started writing. I wrote about 3 pages, literally dropped my journal and realized that the happiness I have inside is massive. I looked at ash and said "we are so happy right now. Unbelievably happy. And it shows. I am finally FINALLY completely wrapped in this journey. I am fully submerged in my travels and there is no part of me left untouched. I feel like I have a giant sun in the center of my chest and its beaming out of me". Maybe that sounds ridiculous or dramatic, but I don't care. The way in which this trip has made me feel is like nothing I have felt before. I feel so far away from my old life but still so in touch and in tune with what is important. I'm lost in the glory of being nomadic and on the move, and I'm enjoying every second of it. Through my smiles, tears, laughs, anger, confusion and tastes, I wouldn't take anything back. It all happened because it was suppose to.
Haha I apologize for the mushy feelings but it had to be said. And now is out there and I feel so alive! My next post will be back to my daily life, I promise ;)
Haha I apologize for the mushy feelings but it had to be said. And now is out there and I feel so alive! My next post will be back to my daily life, I promise ;)
1.22.2012
Why not?
Alright alright, I know I should update what's going on but I am really tired. Today was one of my travel days (Dublin to Paris) and those take a lot out of me. Plus I'm running on about 2 hours of sleep. It's all worth it, trust me. Staying up late, waking up early and navigating my way through foreign countries is all worth it. Today was definitely definitely worth it. :)
I feel like I'm slowly but surely getting to a point where I am able to revel in the experience meaning I am enjoying myself more and also the entire process. Before, when I would get lost or something wouldn't go as planned, I would let it get to me or stay focused on what I should've done, etc. But I now feel that I am growing into the shoes of a true traveler. I soak up everything I do like a sponge and constantly find myself literally smiling at the situation; I still can't believe I am over here, living a dream. A dream that seemed so out of reach and yet here I am, just have finished a pound of beef tartare, croissant au buerre, cheeses and a fresh crepe all washed down with vin rouge while sitting in a Parisian cafe after seeing the Eiffel Tower. Yes, it's just day 1.
But let's recap, shall we?? Dublin Dublin Dublin! My gosh!!! What an experience. After arriving, I realized right away that there wasn't a whole lot to do there. Don't get me wrong, it has a lot to do if you live there, but as a sightseeing type of trip, I only had 3 priorities: Guinness brewery, Jameson distillery, pubs. My friend Vivien, who I haven't seen in about 8 years, told me her friend Jens (Yens for you very english speaking people) lived in Dublin and that I should contact him because he would be a great tour guide. So I figured, why not? Jens and I met for coffee and talked and then he proceeded to give me a detailed walking tour of all Dublin! He is awesome! He knew so much information on Dublin and he was down to do whatever I wanted and willing to show me around. We walked for a few hours and stumbled across this restaurant that was built inside an old church. Ok, for those who know me, about 2 years ago, I took a class in college where I was assigned to create and thoroughly develop my own restaurant concept and guess what I created??? A restaurant in an old gothic looking church!! So seeing this made my mind go crazy! It was my concept, here, in Dublin! We ate there and it was awesome and then he took me to a local pub to meet his friends. Ohhhh man!! These guys were great! True Irish guys, sitting around and drinking beer after beer after beer. They really do know how to drink a lot and I tried to keep up (why not?) but I hit a wall around my 7th pint. =P (yeah so what, don't judge. I was in Ireland.) The beer was great and the company was hilarious. Harry, a true Irish guy, told me the way in which he viewed the world: Irish start drinking at the age of birth, Paris wouldntt be worth it because Mona Lisa doesn't even smile, and if a city could be a hangover, Belfast would be it because you get sick just looking at it. Funny guy
The next day, Jens and I started the day with our Jameson distillery tour. I volunteered myself for a whiskey tasting, comparing whiskey to bourbon and scotch (Irish whiskey won) and then we walked through a few cathedrals. Haha. I then ventured off by myself to see the Dublin castle (awesome) and met up later on with my two Irish friends, Mia and Róisín, that i roomed with in my london hostel (Jens joined us too). We went to the Trinity College pub where I was introduced to Devils Bit and black currant, a cider beer mixed with a black currant syrup. I'm not a fan of sweet drinks but this was SO delicious!! I met with Mia and Róisín's friends and a bunch of people they didn't even know. After 3 cider drinks and a few jaager bombs, we dropped by a few other pubs and ended our night drinking Kopparburg cider (best cider in the universe!), listening to live music, and singing in unison at the top of our lungs. C'mon, I'm in ireland!! And it was a surreal experience, to be surrounded by two girls I essentially just met and a bunch of people I don't know and still feel like I'm loved and appreciated. If there is one thing I take away from Dublin, it's that everyone is family. It doesn't matter who you know here. If you drink, talk, and are willing to have fun, then you're family.
Róisín and I met the next day to tour the Guinness brewery (and drink a free pint on the 7th floor bar overlooking all of Dublin) and then to her house. She offered me her house to stay in on my last night, as I previously wrote about, and how could I say no?!? She was so gracious for taking me in, feeding me, letting me crash in a bed and fixing me up with a taxi the next day to the airport. Honestly, I wish everyone was like people like Jens and Róisín. They didnt HAVE to do any of what they did. But they took me under their Irish wing and guaranteed an amazing experience. They understand the world of travel and what it's like to know no one and to live in a community house out of a suitcase. They get it. And for their generosity, I am forever grateful for I would not have had th same Dublin experience if it wasn't for them.
This morning, I caught a 630am flight ( ridiculous, right?) to Paris where I then caught a bus to central city and then a metro to the hostel. I had some troubles and had to ask locals for directions which they responded to my lack of French with their broken English. Quite honestly, it was fun. I was nervous I would get lost or that I would take far too long but in the midst of my worries, I threw up my hands and said "forget it". Why not? Why not forget being worried over situations that are bound to happen? Why not forget things that are out of my control? I knew with absolute certainty that finding my way wouldn't be the easiest, so I accepted it. And I let myself feel every emotion as I navigated and wandered. I took it all in as interpreted signs as best i could and took the subway in the wrong direction. :)It was an adventure. And it was fun. I finally got to the hostel after what seemed like forever and saw Ashleigh for the first time in almost 2 weeks and cried as I hugged her! We had both been through a lot over the last few weeks and I knew through a hug, I didn't have to say a word. She understood and I was overwhelmed. It was so good to see her
We roamed around Paris today with our new Australian friend Hamish and ate and ate and ate and ate. My god. Sitting underneath the Eiffel Tower, as it lit up, we spilt our popcorn everywhere and laughed ourselves sick. It's so good to be back with the girl I started this journey with. Thinking of where we started back in LA to now really just blows my mind. We were crazy to create this whole adventure and more crazy to go through with this whole adventure. But why not?
Ashleigh just read me a quote today: "Life is an adventure. It's not the destination we reach that's most rewarding. It's the journey along the way. So write it down and treasure the memory forever". There ya go :)
I feel like I'm slowly but surely getting to a point where I am able to revel in the experience meaning I am enjoying myself more and also the entire process. Before, when I would get lost or something wouldn't go as planned, I would let it get to me or stay focused on what I should've done, etc. But I now feel that I am growing into the shoes of a true traveler. I soak up everything I do like a sponge and constantly find myself literally smiling at the situation; I still can't believe I am over here, living a dream. A dream that seemed so out of reach and yet here I am, just have finished a pound of beef tartare, croissant au buerre, cheeses and a fresh crepe all washed down with vin rouge while sitting in a Parisian cafe after seeing the Eiffel Tower. Yes, it's just day 1.
But let's recap, shall we?? Dublin Dublin Dublin! My gosh!!! What an experience. After arriving, I realized right away that there wasn't a whole lot to do there. Don't get me wrong, it has a lot to do if you live there, but as a sightseeing type of trip, I only had 3 priorities: Guinness brewery, Jameson distillery, pubs. My friend Vivien, who I haven't seen in about 8 years, told me her friend Jens (Yens for you very english speaking people) lived in Dublin and that I should contact him because he would be a great tour guide. So I figured, why not? Jens and I met for coffee and talked and then he proceeded to give me a detailed walking tour of all Dublin! He is awesome! He knew so much information on Dublin and he was down to do whatever I wanted and willing to show me around. We walked for a few hours and stumbled across this restaurant that was built inside an old church. Ok, for those who know me, about 2 years ago, I took a class in college where I was assigned to create and thoroughly develop my own restaurant concept and guess what I created??? A restaurant in an old gothic looking church!! So seeing this made my mind go crazy! It was my concept, here, in Dublin! We ate there and it was awesome and then he took me to a local pub to meet his friends. Ohhhh man!! These guys were great! True Irish guys, sitting around and drinking beer after beer after beer. They really do know how to drink a lot and I tried to keep up (why not?) but I hit a wall around my 7th pint. =P (yeah so what, don't judge. I was in Ireland.) The beer was great and the company was hilarious. Harry, a true Irish guy, told me the way in which he viewed the world: Irish start drinking at the age of birth, Paris wouldntt be worth it because Mona Lisa doesn't even smile, and if a city could be a hangover, Belfast would be it because you get sick just looking at it. Funny guy
The next day, Jens and I started the day with our Jameson distillery tour. I volunteered myself for a whiskey tasting, comparing whiskey to bourbon and scotch (Irish whiskey won) and then we walked through a few cathedrals. Haha. I then ventured off by myself to see the Dublin castle (awesome) and met up later on with my two Irish friends, Mia and Róisín, that i roomed with in my london hostel (Jens joined us too). We went to the Trinity College pub where I was introduced to Devils Bit and black currant, a cider beer mixed with a black currant syrup. I'm not a fan of sweet drinks but this was SO delicious!! I met with Mia and Róisín's friends and a bunch of people they didn't even know. After 3 cider drinks and a few jaager bombs, we dropped by a few other pubs and ended our night drinking Kopparburg cider (best cider in the universe!), listening to live music, and singing in unison at the top of our lungs. C'mon, I'm in ireland!! And it was a surreal experience, to be surrounded by two girls I essentially just met and a bunch of people I don't know and still feel like I'm loved and appreciated. If there is one thing I take away from Dublin, it's that everyone is family. It doesn't matter who you know here. If you drink, talk, and are willing to have fun, then you're family.
Róisín and I met the next day to tour the Guinness brewery (and drink a free pint on the 7th floor bar overlooking all of Dublin) and then to her house. She offered me her house to stay in on my last night, as I previously wrote about, and how could I say no?!? She was so gracious for taking me in, feeding me, letting me crash in a bed and fixing me up with a taxi the next day to the airport. Honestly, I wish everyone was like people like Jens and Róisín. They didnt HAVE to do any of what they did. But they took me under their Irish wing and guaranteed an amazing experience. They understand the world of travel and what it's like to know no one and to live in a community house out of a suitcase. They get it. And for their generosity, I am forever grateful for I would not have had th same Dublin experience if it wasn't for them.
This morning, I caught a 630am flight ( ridiculous, right?) to Paris where I then caught a bus to central city and then a metro to the hostel. I had some troubles and had to ask locals for directions which they responded to my lack of French with their broken English. Quite honestly, it was fun. I was nervous I would get lost or that I would take far too long but in the midst of my worries, I threw up my hands and said "forget it". Why not? Why not forget being worried over situations that are bound to happen? Why not forget things that are out of my control? I knew with absolute certainty that finding my way wouldn't be the easiest, so I accepted it. And I let myself feel every emotion as I navigated and wandered. I took it all in as interpreted signs as best i could and took the subway in the wrong direction. :)It was an adventure. And it was fun. I finally got to the hostel after what seemed like forever and saw Ashleigh for the first time in almost 2 weeks and cried as I hugged her! We had both been through a lot over the last few weeks and I knew through a hug, I didn't have to say a word. She understood and I was overwhelmed. It was so good to see her
We roamed around Paris today with our new Australian friend Hamish and ate and ate and ate and ate. My god. Sitting underneath the Eiffel Tower, as it lit up, we spilt our popcorn everywhere and laughed ourselves sick. It's so good to be back with the girl I started this journey with. Thinking of where we started back in LA to now really just blows my mind. We were crazy to create this whole adventure and more crazy to go through with this whole adventure. But why not?
Ashleigh just read me a quote today: "Life is an adventure. It's not the destination we reach that's most rewarding. It's the journey along the way. So write it down and treasure the memory forever". There ya go :)
1.21.2012
Dublin home!
I want to update so bad but I am in the midst of relaxing!!! Róisín, my Irish friend I met at the London hostel, offered her home to me for my last night in Dublin and I totally took advantage. A home, with a bed, a normal shower, food, tv, and tea?!? How could I pass that up??? So I'm currently on her couch, watching tv, with a full stomach and happy as a clam! My god!! Not only was she great at showing me the Dublin pubs, but she offered the one thing that I miss the most: a home!!! I'm in complete bliss right now and therefore not going to bother to update about my Dublin experience. Its just going to have to wait because THIS is the ultimate Dublin experience.
<333333 thank you Róisín and family!!!
<333333 thank you Róisín and family!!!
1.19.2012
Bad news, Ireland
The news report I just saw on tv:
The news reporters were discussing the reputation of Ireland. That everyone who comes here revolves Ireland around drinking and beer. They want to raise the drinking age and they wish that people didn't see Ireland as a "pint"....
Hellooo!! One of the reseasons I am here is for the guinness brewery! Bad news, Ireland. You will always be knows for beer, drinking, and the pint. That will never change. Ever. I'm sorry.
:)
The news reporters were discussing the reputation of Ireland. That everyone who comes here revolves Ireland around drinking and beer. They want to raise the drinking age and they wish that people didn't see Ireland as a "pint"....
Hellooo!! One of the reseasons I am here is for the guinness brewery! Bad news, Ireland. You will always be knows for beer, drinking, and the pint. That will never change. Ever. I'm sorry.
:)
Hidden places
Picture this. Im walking down the streets of Dublin at night. Not sure of what I want to do first. Kind of hungry. Kind of thirsty. Just wondering. Walking down the street and it starts to look dull, but then there is an alley. From the alley, I see lights and a faint sound of a crowd of people. Deciding to check it out, I turn down the alley and slowly walk towards the sound. The sound grows louder and it's accompanied by loud music. Live music. As I continue walking down, I arrive at a corner bar, where the sound is bursting out of the wooden doors. So I HAVE to walk in... tons of people and very live Irish music. I walk in to what feels like a movie. Literally.
You know that scene in Titanic where Jack takes Rose downstairs to his 'real' party? I'm not kidding you, it was JUST like that. Very crowded, drinks everywhere, people dancing the same way, people clapping the same way, cheering the same way and then a two or three man band that was playing the exact same song from that scene. NO JOKE! I had to laugh! It was fantastic. My first night in Dublin I felt was pretty authentic. So I sat down, had some Irish stew, a Guinness and watched the crazy drunk Irish people dance, hoot, and holler! What a welcoming!
I left around 8 because one of my roommates, Anna, invited me to go with her and her friend to watch the Barcelona vs. Madrid futbol game. She is from Catalonia which is Barcelona. Anna, and her friend Pol (Paul), took me up the street to Murray's Pub and upon walking in, I thought it was an ok place. Lots of older people, kind of quiet, doesn't look like a bar to watch a game at, but I knew we would have fun. Then Anna went around the side, through an unsuspecting back door, up the stairs and voila! A huge room with multiple tv screens and packed full of people of all ages and ethnicities wearing their favorite teams colors. Everyone was chanting, cheering, banging on the walls and hugging each other as Barcelona won the game. I have never watched a futbol game before like that and it was definitely worth the experience.
I didn't know what could compare to London once I left. But Dublin is doing a pretty good job. There is definitely more to see in London but Dublin has a different vibe. Relaxed, laid back, let's just all have fun vibe. No one tries too hard to impress. Everyone seems very real. I'm meeting up with my friend Vivien's friend today. I've never met him but I've been promised I wll have fun. Haha, I can't wait!
You know that scene in Titanic where Jack takes Rose downstairs to his 'real' party? I'm not kidding you, it was JUST like that. Very crowded, drinks everywhere, people dancing the same way, people clapping the same way, cheering the same way and then a two or three man band that was playing the exact same song from that scene. NO JOKE! I had to laugh! It was fantastic. My first night in Dublin I felt was pretty authentic. So I sat down, had some Irish stew, a Guinness and watched the crazy drunk Irish people dance, hoot, and holler! What a welcoming!
I left around 8 because one of my roommates, Anna, invited me to go with her and her friend to watch the Barcelona vs. Madrid futbol game. She is from Catalonia which is Barcelona. Anna, and her friend Pol (Paul), took me up the street to Murray's Pub and upon walking in, I thought it was an ok place. Lots of older people, kind of quiet, doesn't look like a bar to watch a game at, but I knew we would have fun. Then Anna went around the side, through an unsuspecting back door, up the stairs and voila! A huge room with multiple tv screens and packed full of people of all ages and ethnicities wearing their favorite teams colors. Everyone was chanting, cheering, banging on the walls and hugging each other as Barcelona won the game. I have never watched a futbol game before like that and it was definitely worth the experience.
I didn't know what could compare to London once I left. But Dublin is doing a pretty good job. There is definitely more to see in London but Dublin has a different vibe. Relaxed, laid back, let's just all have fun vibe. No one tries too hard to impress. Everyone seems very real. I'm meeting up with my friend Vivien's friend today. I've never met him but I've been promised I wll have fun. Haha, I can't wait!
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