Make no mistake. I know what a tropical paradise looks like. I live on an unspoiled island just two minutes from a protected marine preserve. And yet, for a second time I am completely inspired by the sleepy mountain-top village of Kuranda in Tropical North Queensland, Australia. United Airlines sent me to Cairns to document this pristine eco destination.
Dial ‘M’ for Malls in Manila
The most densely populated city in the world is also the most shoppable. Manila is a direct flight away from Guam and as such, a place that’s becoming not only a frequent stopover, but a destination for food, medical, and shopping. Manila has its share of inequity, crime, and pollution, but I’ll focus on its entertainment value of its popular Makati City.
8 Ways to Beat the Post-Vacation Blues
I had it bad last week. I had just experienced the world’s fastest weekend in Cairns, Australia, white water rafting, climbing, zip lining, and sailing to the Great Barrier Reef. When I got home I felt, well, a little deflated. All that adrenaline-pumping activity… then nothing. I realized I had the post-travel blues. I probably get this more than I’d like to admit, even when I am relieved to be back home, sleeping in my own bed, waking up to my schnuggly bunny (yes, I am 6). I felt so irritable (my poor husband), I had to do something. Here’s what worked:
GGTV: How to Pack for a Tropical Vacation (VIDEO)
I visited Cairns, Australia last week and in this video I show you how to pack for a tropical vacation. Watch now and subscribe to my YouTube channel for the latest videos.
Giveaway: Win a Chic Wish $140 Gift Card
Time to show a little appreciation for my readers who also want to “travel like a lady and budget like a boss.” Travel in style with a chance to win $140 gift card from Chic Wish. I am in love with their printed midi skirts — they are so unique and affordable.
How to Sell Everything and Move 6,000 Miles from Home
So, you may not be contemplating a move quite so huge, but move half-way around the world is exactly what I did in 2009. You can read about Why I Sold Everything and Moved to Guam. The thought of leaving it all behind is certainly tempting, but it is also daunting, especially if you’ve been in the same spot for years or even decades. So let’s quickly get to the how.
GGT TV: Exploring the Top Sites in Saipan
Watch this week’s episode of Global Girl Travels TV to see the top sites in one of America’s most beautiful and remote islands, Saipan!
11 Things to Eat, See & Do in Saipan
I wasn’t prepared to like Saipan so much. Coming from the neighboring island of Guam, which is larger and more developed, perhaps I had a prejudice. Saipan surprised me with its raw beauty, refreshing trade winds, and precipitous cliffs. Read more about The Most Beautiful Island in America You’ve Never Heard Of.
Explore the Elements Photo Contest
Explore the Elements is a contest that invites bloggers and photographer to showcase the images they’ve captured on their travels. There are four categories (Earth, Water, Fire and Air) and the challenge is to submit photos that capture the essence of each of the elements. There is no stipulation on how long you’ve been blogging, so bloggers new and old are welcome to take part.
GGT TV: 8 Ways to Get Free Travel
This week on GGT TV, I talk about how I travel the world for free. Watch now!