June 21, 2013

Travel Tips: Don't Book Ahead! You Might Miss The Experience Of A Lifetime

by Lindsay Shapka in Travel, Destinations, Travel Adventures, Travel Tips

My friends and I had spent five action-packed days in Rome and we had just arrived back at our hostel ready to pack up to head to Venice the next day. We hadn't pre-booked anything, but we knew that we were ready for a change of scenery.

We paused at the front desk on our way in, to let them know that we would be leaving in the morning (but really to flirt with the guy working the front counter) and noticed a poster on the wall behind the desk with "FREE CONCERT" printed on it in big, bold, black letters.

Curious, we asked for details, but other than being nice to look at, cute-front-desk-guy was kind of useless. He couldn't tell us why the concert was happening, when it started, or how long it would be. All he knew was that it was at the Circus Maximus (an outdoor, ancient Roman chariot racing stadium located near the ancient Roman forum) and that there would be A LOT of famous musicians and movie stars present.

Deciding that one more day in Rome wouldn't hurt, we decided to stick around to check out the concert.

We woke up early the next morning, and headed to the venue around ten, figuring the concert would probably start in the early afternoon.

It was May, a beautiful humid day, and the 20 minute walk took us through the historic city centre, and past the always stunning Colosseum.

When we arrived, the massive green space was completely deserted except for a stage at one end and a few tech guys wandering around. Apparently we were REALLY early.

Here's the thing about being REALLY early to a free, outdoor concert though... you end up at the very front, at the very centre of the stage.

**As close as you could get to the stage without being press or a producer**

Oh, and it turned out that half the city knew what time the concert started, cause after we held our spots at the front of the stage for a few hours, hundreds of thousands of people joined us!

The crowd that gathered behind us — it turned out that more than 10,000 people were there.

It turned out that the concert was called We Are The Future, and was a fundraiser for children who lived in high-risk areas around the world. It was raising money to provide schools, safe places to live, water and access to healthcare.

How did I find this out standing in this massive crowd trapped at the front of the stage?

Quincy Jones told me.

Did I mention that it was a concert put on by him?!

Oh, and those famous people that we were promised would appear?

Take a look:

**The one and only Andrea Bocelli is still, to this day, one of the most amazing live performers I have ever heard**

**Naomi Campbell strutted onto the stage**

I pretty much hyperventilated when Angelina Jolie walked out on stage... I could have touched her! (But I didn't because that would be creepy)

For thirteen hours (yes, I was exhausted, starving and in pain by the end of the concert, but it was SO worth it), we watched and performances by Carlos Santana, STOMP, Alicia Keys and more!

It was an amazing experience that I will NEVER forget, but one that I would not have taken advantage of if we had pre-booked a hotel or train to Venice ahead of time.

So, the moral of this VERY long story is this:
Book what you need to in order to feel comfortable in your travels, but leave yourself room for spontaneity — you never know when a free concert full of superstars will come your way!

Travel Trends: The Rise of The Flashpacker

by Lindsay Shapka in Travel, Travel Tips

What's a flashpacker? What's the difference between a flashpacker and a backpacker?

'Flashpacker' does not refer to packing REALLY fast (though if you are a speedy packer, I applaud you... it takes me forever).

This word refers to an entirely different phenomenon. According to Wikipedia:

“Flashpacking is a combination of flash, as in fancy, with backpacking, used to refer to an affluent backpacker. Flashpacking has an association of more disposable income while traveling and has been defined simply as backpacking with a bigger budget.”

I still remember the first time I threw my life on my back, wore the same thing everyday until it was full of holes, and then kept wearing it. When I slept in a room with 19 other people and was shocked at the thought of paying more than $5 for a meal. I would walk an hour to avoid paying for a bus, and spend 2 hours on a bus instead of paying for a cab — in other words, I am no stranger to travelling on a shoestring.

There is something that I love about being a backpacker that no 5-Star Hotel can ever give me.

Six of the 19 other people in that cramped hostel room with me became life-long friends, I have memories of never ending laughter on overnight train rides, and having some of the best meals of my life, perched on a stool next to a street food stall.

These are experiences and memories that can never be taken away, and that I never want to give up, but lets be serious, a 30-something wearing no makeup, staying in hostels, and wearing clothes full of holes can look a little like, well, a desperate homeless person.

Enter the Flashpacker.

According to Amanda Kendle, a writer for Vegabondish:

“A flashpacker shares many of the same characteristics of a backpacker — a sense of independence, no fixed itinerary and relatively long periods of travel to more exotic and far-flung destinations. Whereas backpacking is traditionally associated with budget travel and destinations that are relatively cheap, flashpacking has an association of more disposable income while traveling and has been defined simply as backpacking with a bigger budget. ”

In order to be a successful Flashpacker, there are a few things to think about:

Don't Book Ahead

ost of us have 'real' jobs now and instead of having months to take off on our adventures, we have to pack it into a week or two. Resist the urge to pre-book your trip. You didn't do it as a backpacker — you just went with the flow, and that is when the life-changing moments happen.

Try A Volunteer Vacation

Now that you have a bit more money to pay for the expenses to get you there, try a trip that involves giving back.

Stay Carefree

You went with the flow before, why change that now?

Don't Feel Like Less of a Traveller For Flying

You more than likely don't have as much time as before, and trains and boats may not be an option if you are wanting to hit multiple destinations in one trip. Flying may be the only one, and if you are anything like me, you will feel like you are cheating by jumping on a plane. Don't. If it wasn't for that plane, you wouldn't be able to see everything that you wanted to — if it makes you feel better, take a budget airline.

Don't Feel Bad About Spending Money

You may still be on a budget, but it is A LOT bigger than it was 10 years ago. Buying that slightly more expensive coffee, beer, or meal isn't going to break the bank or take away your 'hardcore traveller' status.

Travel Tips: Your Guide To Travel Vaccinations You Might Need For Your Next Trip

by Lindsay Shapka in Travel, Travel Tips

So, you have decided where you want to go for your next adventure, your tickets are booked and you have bought a brand new shiny travel book ready to get you trip started.

Next step? Getting your travel vaccinations and immunizations sorted out.

Though you can head to your family doctor for a consultation, specialized travelers health clinics are your best source of information. Ideally you should visit a doctor six to eight weeks before you board the plane, but it is never too late to get a disease preventing shot in the arm.

The Centers for Disease Control and the International Travel & Health Guide published by the World Health Organization are both fantastic resources to do some of your own research (which I heartily recommend).

The only vaccination required by international regulations is Yellow Fever, but you will only be asked for proof of this vaccine (or need to get it) if you have travelled in Africa or South America.

Of course, the types of vaccinations that you will receive are dependent on where you are traveling to, but here is a brief rundown of some of the basics:

Tetanus/Diphtheria

This shot is good for 10 years and is a VERY important one. Tetanus is usually found in soil, dust, and manure and enters the body through breaks in the skin; usually cuts or puncture wounds caused by contaminated objects (think rusty nails). It causes lockjaw and, if untreated, death.

Measles/Mumps/Rubella

Most of us should have received at least one MMR vaccination (usually as a child), that was considered to be good for life. It has recently been discovered that adults are now getting the mumps more regularly (in Canada 300 adults get it each year) and are more susceptible to the infection without a second shot (a friend of mine was recently in Thailand and contracted the mumps while there). Though health professionals may not recommend getting a second shot, insist on it if you are headed to South East Asia. Better to be safe than sorry!

Typhoid

This is a bacteria that is transmitted though contaminated food and water. Though it makes you feel like garbage, it is not life threatening when treated with medication. The vaccination lasts for about 3 years, but is not 100% effective, so you still need to watch what you ingest.

Hepatitis A

This treat of a virus is transmitted thorough contaminated food and water and has NO specific treatment. In other words, get vaccinated. A series of two shots will usually cover you for life.

Hepatitis B

This is the only STD that can be prevented by a vaccination so is WELL worth the three shots that protect you for life. It is spread by contact with infected body fluids (which does not necessarily mean sex) and can result in liver cancer, cirrhosis, and death.

Japanese Encephalitis

This is one of the few mosquito-transmitted viruses that can be treated with a vaccination. It is most common in places with hot, jungle-like conditions. This virus causes an inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), with symptoms including sudden headache, high fever, disorientation, coma, tremors, and convulsions. If you receive the 'live' vaccination, one shot covers you for life. For tips on preventing other mosquito transmitted viruses click here.

Once you have gotten your immunizations, you should be given a booklet that will list all of the vaccinations you received. This is handy to carry with you if you plan on being out of your home country for a lengthy period of time.

Well that about covers it!

Ya, a lot of these viruses, diseases, and infections sound scary, but as soon as you get the vaccination you don't have to worry about it — all that you have to do is enjoy your adventure!

Disclaimer: I want to emphasize that I am NOT a medical professional of ANY kind, nor did I interview a medical professional specifically for this blog. What I have written is based solely on my own experience, and from research in various online and print publications. If you disagree with anything that I have written, or would like to add to it, please leave a comment below!

7 Reasons Why I Love Staying In Hostels

by Lindsay Shapka in Travel, Travel Tips

I have often said that even if I had all the money in the world, I would still choose to stay in a hostel over a hotel. (Seriously, I'm not just saying that).

Backpackers Hostel in Downtown Toronto, Canada

Here's why:

1. They Are Cheap

Yup, depending on where you are, and the time of year it is, you will pay between $8-$40 for a bed. Compare that to $80-$400 for a hotel — it's a way better deal. And really, how much time are you going to be spending in your room anyway? There's so many new things to see!

2. Location, Location, Location

Most hostels are located in the centre of the city (aka prime location) allowing you to walk out the front door and continue to walk everywhere you need to go. There is often no need to spend money on car rentals or even public transit, plus it gives you the opportunity to soak in some local flavor after dark because you don't have to worry about getting back to your hotel in an expensive cab.

3. Breakfast

Your room charge will usually cover breakfast, which is often some sort of fresh carb from a local bakery. Who can say no to a fresh croissant?

4. Amenities

Despite what you might think, the amenities at a hostel are actually quite nice. You usually have access to a kitchen, which means you can cook your own food — another dollar saver — and many hostels even have their own restaurant or bar. There is usually free or cheap Internet available 24 hours, and a common room where you can relax and swap stories. These common rooms also usually have a well-stocked bookshelf where you can take or trade books free of charge. Some of the nicest bathrooms that I have EVER been in have been in hostels!

5. Safety

Think about it, you are surrounded by tourists who don't want their stuff stolen, and who are looking out for each other. Most hostels are run by fellow travelers and front desks are usually manned 24 hours. Many will supply you with a locker to lock your stuff up for extra security (bring your own lock as they are not always supplied).

6. Free Travel Advice, Tour Guides, and Nightlife "Coordinators"

The guys and gals running hostels are usually travellers themselves, and so are not out to scam you and make a buck. They are the perfect people to ask advice about tours, where to eat, what to see etc. Some will even take you around or coordinate bookings for you (at no extra cost!). Usually a few nights a week, the people working at the hostel will round up everyone they can and take them out on the town. If you are a solo traveler, or not familiar with the area, this gives you a fantastic opportunity to safely experience the city's nightlife — and make new friends.

7. Meeting People Who Ask You Where You've Been and not What You Do

There is nothing more refreshing then meeting someone new and being defined by where you have been, where you are going, and what adventures you have had instead of being defined by a job that may not have anything to do with who you really are or what you are passionate about. Learning about the person in front of you, and sharing a genuine moment while at the height of a new-experience-high is my favourite part about staying in hostels. This is how I have made some amazing lifelong friends, and I would never give that up.

8 Things You Must See and Do in Florence

by Lindsay Shapka in Travel, Destinations, Travel Adventures, Travel Tips

Winding cobblestone streets lined with tall, stone buildings filled with shops, cafes and restaurants. Churches covered in the art works of Italian masters. Fashion trends that won't make it to North America for years. Museums overflowing with paintings, sculpture and sketches. Walking in the footsteps of Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello and Raphael (no, not the Ninja Turtles)... what isn't there to see and do in the glorious city of Florence!

Here is your guide to the top spots to see and the best things to do when visiting Florence!

The Duomo (front facade recently cleaned)

1. The Duomo

Though you may have spotted the terracotta coloured tiles of Brunelleschi's massive dome long before you come upon the cathedral, the first time that you turn the corner and find yourself in front of the pink and green marble facade, you are sure to have the wind knocked out of you.

The church is gigantic, towering above all the buildings surrounding it, and breathtakingly beautiful.

The best time to visit is in the off-season, when the interior is open to all, nothing is closed off to tourists and the echoing halls are quiet, deserted, and lit by flickering candlelight.

2. The Baptistery and The Gates of Paradise

Across from the Duomo sits the octagonal shaped baptistery that was built on the site of an ancient Roman temple as early as the 5th century. Dante was among the celebrated figures that have been baptized in this marble structure that is famous for its gilded bronze doors, the most famous being Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise (pictured below) — 10 intricate panels depicting stories from the old testament. The one's hanging are replicas but you can check out the originals at the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo.

The Gates of Paradise (Porta del Paradiso)      Lorenzo Ghiberti

3. Piazza della Signoria

This expansive piazza is the political hub of the city and is surrounded by some beautiful historic buildings including the Palazzo Vecchio which is the seat of the Florentine government and full of murals by iconic artists.

The Piazza also contains a sculpture gallery (a great spot to people watch from on a warm evening) and an exact replica of the famous David by Michelangelo.

4. Galleries

The Uffizi Gallery, built in the 16th century by the artist and art historian Vasari, is the home of the private art collection of the Medici family — essentially the 'royal family' of Florence at the height of the Renaissance and passionate art patrons. Works by masters like Michelangelo, Leonardo, Donatello, and Raphael can be found here as well as stunning paintings by Botticelli (my personal favourites).

Another 'can't-miss' is the Galleria dell’Accademia, which is the home of the original David and Michelangelo's unfinished Slaves that give a unique insight into the artist's process.

5. Ponte Vecchio

The only bridge that survived the Nazi explosives in 1944 (pictured above), this unique 14th century structure is the home of the city's most beautiful jewellery shops.

Unless you are travelling with a pocketful for cash, don't expect to do more then window shop on this pricy strip, but something as unique as a bridge covered in houses is definitely worth the visit.

6. Piazzale Michelangelo

It's a bit of a trek, but the views from this plaza (pictures below), across the river from the centre of the city, are worth every drip of sweat.

On a clear day, you can see straight to the green Tuscan hills beyond the city.

7. Cafes, Restaurants, and Wine

There are some fantastic cafes, their tables spilling out into the street, between the Duomo and the Piazza della Signoria, as well as some great spots for gelato.

Florence is incredibly close to the Chianti region which means some delicious wine, readily available at extremely low prices, and there are no rules about drinking in the streets so grab a bottle from a local grocery store and head to the Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy a sunset after a long day of sightseeing!

8. Shop, shop, and shop some more

Florence contains everything from department stores to street markets and everything in between.

Most boutiques, jewellery shops and designer stores are located between the cathedral and the Arno river, while the best spot to find leather, souvenirs, hand-bound books, clothing, and jewellery at low prices is at the Piazza del Mercato Centrale (an open-air market located near the train station).

5 Important Questions To Ask A Potential Travel Buddy

by Lindsay Shapka in Travel, Travel Tips

Trust me, travelling can test ANY relationship.

Whether you are planning on travelling with your boyfriend, best friend, sister, father, or a new acquaintance, there are a few questions pre-travel that you must ask any potential travel buddy to make sure you both have an amazing trip.

1. What is your budget? How much do you want to spend on food, fun, etc...?

You need to know that you are on the same page in terms of what you are going to spend during your trip. If you are planning on travelling on a shoestring and eating from markets or street vendors while your travel buddy is expecting to have restaurant meals three times a day, there will be more than a few problems.

2. Do you prefer to plan in advance or are you someone who likes just winging it?

If you need to have your days scheduled, and stick to the schedule, in order to have a good time, then you need a travel buddy who will be the same. On the other hand, if you are someone who likes to just wander and see where the day takes you, having a buddy who wants a strict schedule will cause a lot of conflict. You need to know if you are compatible or at least willing to strike a balance in how you plan to spend your days.

3. Do you prefer that we spend all our time together, or are you comfortable with us separating to do our own thing every once and awhile?

To me, this is the most important question. I enjoy doing things when I travel that not everyone likes to do — I'll hike to the top of a mountain on a sweltering hot day just to catch a glimpse of an ancient library located at the top or spend hours wandering through an art gallery. And I want to be able to do those things without having to worry that the person I am with is enjoying themselves too.

Sometimes the easiest thing to do is to split up for a day, an afternoon, or even just a few hours, so that you can both have an experience that the other person wouldn't enjoy. But, you need to know that your travel buddy is up for that and that there will be no hard feelings either way.

4. What type of accommodation are you picturing? Hostels? Campgrounds? B&Bs? Hotels?

Not only the type of accommodation, but the area of the city you are wanting to stay in is also important. (Prices tend to get higher the closer to the centre of a city you get — though that's not always true if you are willing to stay in hostels).

Are you both okay with the co-ed room in a hostel dorm? Are you looking for a room for two at a B&B? Or, are you both wanting your own room at a hotel? Make sure you know where you are both expecting to lay your head before packing your bags!

5. What activities or attractions are an absolute must-see for you and what are you flexible about?

You are headed to New York and you will give a limb to get to the top of the Empire State Building — even if you have to stand in line for the entire day.

Your travel buddy needs to know that, because if that isn't on their to-do list, this could lead to an argument. When I am headed on a trip, I always let my travel buddy know what my must-do things are and if hers/his matches up then we do them together. If not, see #3 above.

Important questions to ask a potential travel buddy

How To Pack Your Carry-On Bag Like An Expert

by Lindsay Shapka in Travel, Travel Tips, Adventure, Travel Adventures

Packing a carry-on for a trip involving air travel isn’t rocket science, but you would be surprised how many people forget to throw even the smallest (but often the most important) things into their bag.

The first thing to remember is that your carry-on can't be more than 10kg. Though you can often sneak through with a heavier bag (I do it all the time), there is always the risk of getting caught and having to pay to check your heavier items.

Liquids, gels, lotions, etc. in containers larger than 100ml/100g/3.4oz are NOT permitted, so assume that when I mention these items I am referring to the small version of them.

Though many people consider their carry-on to be what holds their source of entertainment or simply a vessel to throw all of the things that they could not fit in their checked luggage in, I approach it in a slightly different way.

To me, the carry-on is your survival kit in case your luggage gets lost.

It needs to contain everything that you would need to survive a full day and even a few nights at your destination.

Here’s what I suggest:

Any Prescription Drugs you might need
Tylenol, Motrin, Advil, etc. (cures for headaches, back spasms)
Prescription Glasses/Contact Case with solution in it (if you wear glasses/contacts)
Sunglasses
Deodorant
Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss
Makeup (for the ladies, it's nice to have just a few items — powder, blush, lip gloss — to freshen up with when you get off the plane)
Bathing Suit (if headed on a beach vacation)
Change of Clothing (usually underpants and a fresh shirt will suffice)
Socks (even if you are wearing sandals, these will keep your feet warm on the plane)
Scarf/Sarong (use as a blanket on the plane and a shawl/scarf if your destination in cooler than you are dressed for)
Blue or Black Pen (for filling out landing documents, jotting down directions, etc.)
Paper Map (wireless may not be available or your smart phone might die)
Passport
Money, credit cards, debit card
Accommodation information (you will need to fill out the address of where you are staying on your landing documents, and you want to be able to access it quickly when you arrive at your destination)
Book or magazine (just in case the inflight entertainment doesn't work)
Headphones (having to buy headphones on your flight sucks)