It has happened. I've started a full time job after my two year hiatus to raise Ohm, write and travel. To say that this adjustment has been easy, would be a lie. The days are long, my 90-minute each way commute from Brooklyn to the Bronx is insane, having two viable hours in which to spend time with my son and husband while trying to make time to write and travel has taken creativity, humor and patience.
In the spirit of carrying on by all means necessary, I will focus for the next few months on weekend getaways.
Autumn seems the perfect season to launch this exploration. It is the quintessential season of the quick crisp weekend away.
Last weekend, Ohm and I, along with my friend Freddy, set out to explore breathtaking Beacon, New York. It was the perfect Saturday day trip from New York.
Now that I'm back in Brooklyn, all I can think about is the shining sapphire view of the Hudson, the Victorian charm of Main St., and the artistic quirk of the boutiques and galleries.
Beacon, is spectacular!
Deep in the Hudson River Valley, about an hours drive from Manhattan, lies a stunning and artistic little town called Beacon. The drive alone, along the Taconic, through Westchester County, past Bear Mountain and beyond Putnam, New York (probably not in this exact order) is a serene field of green and calm.
Whether for the day as we did, or for an overnight stay at one of the beautiful colonial Bread and Breakfasts, Beacon, New York is a destination that is sure to invigorate your soul.
As the season transitions and sniffles and congestion begin to replace the languid sighs of summer, it is the perfect time to brew a fresh pot of tasty medicinal thyme tea.
Thyme, a natural expectorant has been used medicinally for ages in the Mediterranean, England and Egypt as a tea to treat coughs, colds and bronchitis- ailments that tend to manifest in the Fall.
Thyme comes in many varieties, my favorite for tea being Lemon Thyme for it's lemony and zesty flavor.
There are many ways to prepare the tea, but I prefer to use fresh, not dried herb sprigs that I've gathered from my fire escape herb garden.
I pluck about five to seven sprigs for two cups of water. I boil my water first, then let the thyme seep for ten minutes in the boiled water.
If you have a toddler or young child with a cough (as cough syrup isn't safe for young children), you can take the same preparation and fill a small teacup halfway with the freshly prepared thyme tea. Add two teaspoons of honey and a teaspoon of Braggsapple cider vinegar then fill the other half of the teacup with orange juice. This is a wonderful cough and congestion remedy and it's tasty.
Overhead, the sky was awash in confusion. A thick haze of gray stretched across the horizon. Seagulls and pigeons flew in graceful loops, the seagulls dipping every so often into the water.
In the sand, children built sandcastles, played with shovels and buckets, and set to work burying dads. Groups of hipsters with fedoras and novels huddled under umbrellas, groups of girlfriends in bikinis chatted lazily beneath the haze. The waves lapped at the sand with mediocre force as the wind created a perfect warm clear day. It was, despite the haze and threat of rain, a perfect Labor Day beach day.
This Labor Day, I went to the brand new and improved Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York. I hadn't been in years, and not since hurricane Sandy devestated the beach front. There were definite reminders of what had been. Sand bags lined the base of the boardwalk, a few houses along Ocean Drive remained boarded up and damaged, but it's not what wasn't but what was.
Rockaway Beach is a great beach. With a section for surfing and a section for swimming and miles of sandy beach, it is the perfect waterfront getaway. Here you can swim, you can relax and when you're done you can visit the delicious food kiosk which offers a great selection of healthy food from veggie burgers to fresh squeezed juice. Yes, they've got your standard hot dogs, fries and frozen yogurt as well.
Pushing my stroller along the wooden boardwalk, I am struck by something. This is not the beach I remember, it's so much better.
It's hard to believe that summer is being replaced by fall already. Where did the time go?
On Saturdays, when we're in Brooklyn and not on the road, Ohm and I visit Prospect Park.
It is important to me, to expose him to the many green spaces the city has to offer. Spaces that encourage the imagination and develop an appreciation for nature.
When we travel to the park, I leave all toys and distractions at home because I want Ohm to be present in the discovery and wonder of the park's beautiful environment.
At two, Ohm is a natural explorer. Once safely inside the park, he's out of the stroller leading the way. He is allowed to choose the trails we walk along and the direction that we amble. I stop when he stops and point out interesting observations along the way.
"Wow! That is a very tall tree! I wonder how tall that tree is. You look very small compared to such a large tree."
"Tall tree! Big!" Ohm squeals with delight as he runs to touch the trunk.
"What does the trunk feel like? The bark is so rough. This must be a very sturdy tree."
"Rough." Ohm repeats, while rubbing the trunk of the tree.
We meander some more, make some more observations.
"Look at the apples. What small apples. I wonder what tree they came from?"
"Where are the flowers? What color are the flower's petals?"
We happen upon a clearing. We take a moment to collect sticks and bark. I begin to draw shapes in the earth with the sticks. Ohm follows suit singing his ABC's. I draw each letter and help him trace the shape with his stick. We make it to O before he becomes distracted by a group of children blowing bubbles on the lawn behind us, we join them.
The children weave around each other in an attempt to catch a bubble before it disappears. Running in circles after clusters of bubbles that vanish before nearing him, Ohm seems to have developed a strategy. He stands still, watching the bubbles hover above before slowly descending around him. Keying in on one or two bubbles he waits patiently before the satisfying pop.
"Boom!" He giggles popping the bubbles.
"Boom. Boom!"
A minute later he is off, chasing a golden retriever down a path towards a tunnel.
"Dog. Woof woof." He calls.
Soon he realizes that once he's in the tunnel, his voice creates an echo.
"Hello." He calls standing perfectly still. "Hello!"
A second later, he's off once more.
It's a beautiful thing to tag along with a toddler in the process of discovering the world.
Every city and suburb in almost every country around the world has some sort of open green space. When we're not in Brooklyn, we get to discover new green spaces all over the country and world. It's the perfect free of charge, low maintenance, accoutrement-free toddler friendly activity.
What activities do you engage in when going on an adventure to the park with a tot?
Over the Labor Day weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting and sitting down with bloggers Rhonda and Sheree Washington. Twin filmmakers and Travelers based in South Carolina, we spent a majority of our time talking about their exciting and relatively new mentorship program- Take A Leap Career Mentoring Program, which gives support to professionals navigating the murky waters of transitioning careers.
I am fascinated by this program on many levels. For starters, I know too well what it's like to feel stuck in a job I loathed, yearning for the opportunity to break into another field, follow another path. I am also curious because I'm relatively new at running my own business. I've made lots of mistakes and am still trying to figure things out.
While relaxing alfresco with green juice, Rhonda and Sharee, answered some of the burning questions I had about the Take A Leap Career Mentoring Program so I can share them with you. I've heard from a hand full of you who are interested in switching to careers focused around travel, international non-profit management, diplomatic work and teaching abroad. This post is for you.
S: How did the mentorship program come about?
R&S: Take A Leap Career Mentoring Program came about after we realized that transitioning to a new career requires a mentor. Our mentor is a film producer and having her in our corner stepped up our professionalism in Film, webshow development, and blogging. This mentoring program provides a platform for mentors and mentees to meet, and with our love of travel, we have incorporated an optional international retreat. The first international retreat will be January 17-20, 2014 in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. The program fee is $149 for mentees and mentors. The mentees experience in a foreign country relates to being outside of their comfort zone, which is needed in transitioning into a new career.
S: How does the program work?
R&S: The Mentees complete an application at the website www.weconnectedprod.wix.com/takealeap at a of cost of $50 for 1st year of mentorship and a $30 renewal fee each year of additional participation. Mentees are adults seeking to find their purposeful career. We identify a seasoned professional mentor/career coaches that correlates with the mentees new career aspiration. The mentees and mentors must communicate at least once a month via email, phone call, Skype, and/or in-person. mentees must also complete journal assignments, forum discussions, and financial/career planning tools. The optional international retreat is a weekend intensive seminar in which we facilitate with concentration on the career and financial planning aspects of transitioning to a new career. There are no fees to be a mentor.
S: How do you go about matching your mentors with the program participants?
R&S: We post the Take A Leap Career Mentoring Program link on our Take A Leap blog, twitter, Facebook, and email. Mentees contact us via social media, email, and/or phone call. Once they have submitted the application and paid the $50 fee, we find mentors through our personal and social media contacts. The mentor and mentees are provided each others contact information.
S: What words of advice do you have for twenty and thirty something's looking to switch careers?
R&S: Don't let fear of failure keep them from pursing their passion and purpose. They may encounter naysayers, but keep being positive. Network with people and join an organization in the new career field. In regard to having a mentor, take heed of their advice in opportunities and avoiding pitfalls. Final advice would be is to have Spiritual Faith.
S: What is your most memorable success story from your program?
R&S: The Take A Leap Career Mentoring Program is fairly new. The most memorable success was receiving an application less than 24 hrs after launching the program on June 15, 2013.
S: If someone is interested in being mentored through your program, how should they contact you to sign-up?
R&S: They can email us with questions at weconnectedprod@gmail.com and visit the Take A Leap Career Mentoring Program website at www.weconnectedprod.wix.com/takealeap We have a Frequently Asked Questions document and Mentee application under the Program tab.
There you have it. If you're interested in mentoring or being a mentee, take a leap, know your happiness and self-fulfillment are vital to living a healthy and balanced life and contact Rhonda and Sharee.
I've been thinking a lot about mindfulness. About how I can approach each day with a set intention and tune in, really be aware during each moment. Thus began my experiments with energizing water with crystals.
Now before your eyes haze over and you write me off as a new age quack, consider for a moment, the undeniable science behind the notion of energy transference; after all, everything is energy. Energy can be transferred from one form to another and can not be created or destroyed.
Crystals have long been held in high esteem as gatekeepers of energy. Each unique type harnesses specific energies and attributes. Placing a crystal, bursting with energy in water creates an environment of transference. The energy from the crystal is absorbed into the water and then once consumed, that property or intention is transferred to a person on a cellular level- hence a somewhat tangible way to practice mindfulness and active intention.
How does it work?
By placing a crystal in purified water for a set period of time, the energetic vibrations of the crystal are transferred into the water. Upon consumption, the energetically charged water is absorbed into the body and a transformation occurs however slight.
Are there health benefits?
Crystals emit negative ions. Negative ions have been proven to promote health and well being because they create an alkaline quality which boosts pH balance and antioxidant levels. Water infused with negative ions released from crystals is detoxifying because free radicals are neutralized leading to cellular health and a reduction in toxicity.
What do I do?
Charging water with crystal energy is a fairly simple process. First, wash your crystal(s) in a solution of sea salt and warm water.
Place your crystal(s) in a glass jar (mason jars are perfect) and add purified water. You want to avoid tap water as the chemicals used to process the water can interact with the crystals. Let the container sit overnight or approximately eight hours.
For an additional twist, you may want to set your jar outside to soak in rays from the sun during the day, or beneath the full moon at night to absorb the moon rays.
The moon is said to provide abundance, peace, calm and love, while the sun is said to energize, provide confidence, and enliven.
How do I know what crystals to use?
It is best to use rough crystals and not smooth polished ones as chemicals may be used in the smoothing process. Below are some crystal suggestions. You want to make sure that you choose a non-toxic crystal that doesn't contain metal. Do a bit of research before you purchase your crystals.
Rose Quartz- Unconditional love, spirituality, tolerance, joy, heart healing
What does this have to do with mindfulness?
Let's say you're developing a practice of setting a daily or weekly intention. If you would like to focus one week on peace for example, you can make a large batch of crystal water infused with amethyst. When you drink your water, you will be reminded of your peaceful intention. In addition, the energy of peace will be absorbed into your body to assist with your work.
So, how can this practice influence my physical health in a tangible way?
Let's say you have high blood pressure or hypertension (we can use the same example of amethyst infused water) the water which is vibrating with the energy of peace, stress relief and balance will be absorbed into your being. On a cellular level, you'll reinforce these states. Mentally and physically you will begin to alter.
Interested in giving it a go? Here are some resources that should help:
For a unique New York City experience, explore the Bronx River Forest. That's right, Bronx forest. There is a forest in the Bronx. A true, honest to goodness forest. If I didn't see it for myself, I never would have believed the stories of its existence.
You descend into the Bronx River Forest, much as you would any other city park. Follow the downward sloping path into a surprising gathering of trees, note the sudden quiet, the thickening canopy of green above, the soothing hum of rushing water, the call and response of cicadas, you are suddenly transformed. The air is decidedly clear. Your feet sink into the fluffy soil below. You've discovered a special place.
One of the oldest forests in New York City and a natural flood plain, the Bronx River Forest, home to the magnificent 23 mile Bronx river, is the perfect place to explore walking trails, go fishing, or rafting. Whether you live in the city and are looking for an autumn day trip or are visiting the city and want to do a little more than pound the pavement, the Bronx River Forest is a sanctuary worthy of exploration.
For up to date seasonal happenings, check out www.bronxriver.org.
Autumn is perfect time to take a trip to the country to soak in the colors, crisp air and quiet. Here's what happened when I ventured to the Catskills recently.
I was handed a bunch of fragrant teardrop shaped leaves. Inhaling the sweet scent, I knew without a doubt- "basil!"
During my stay at the Rohdes Hall Plantation in Jamaica a few weeks ago, we happened upon a large patch of basil while on a guided walk.
I know basil well, I have a hearty stretch growing in my herb garden in Maryland that I use to make summer salads and to season buttermilk biscuits and lemonade. What I wasn't aware of was the use of basil in Jamaica as a medicinal tea.
From diabetes, to asthma, stress, to arthritis, basil taken as a tea can prove a powerful healing tonic.
To prepare basil tea, simply pull about a dozen fresh sprigs from the earth and rinse. Bring your water to a boil then add the clean basil sprigs seeping for five minutes.
Basil tea is a fantastic early morning tea as basil is known to bring mental clarity.
For an extra kick of green, I like to add a teaspoon of mint flavored chlorophyll. The taste combination is lovely.
Perhaps it's the feeling of suspension, weightlessness, a concrete surrender. The water's soothing sway, the gentle aquatic hug, an invitation to let go.
As summer slowly dissipates into autumn, I'd like to pay homage to one of my favorite summertime activities- back floating and doing the dead man's float in the ocean.
Ocean back floating and dead man's floating is my favorite form of meditation, the sound of my beating heart, the swirl of turquoise sea. I'm reminded of savasana, at the end of a yoga session, mindfulness in action, a gentle reminder to be present, to give in to new sensations- acknowledgement that it is just fine to be a very small human floating along the surface of an enormous ocean.
A few weeks ago I was fortunate enough to take part in a reading at the Barnes & Noble in Park Slope, Brooklyn. The reading was hosted by the Imani House, a wonderful organization I've volunteered with for a while now.
I read a piece I've been struggling with lately, a short story titled- AIM. POINT. SPRAY.
The beauty of a live audience is the ability to receive instant feedback. I had the rare opportunity to take in the collective reactions of a room full of strangers. The subtle oohs gasps and chuckles were priceless. This piece is due for another round of edits, but here's what I've been able to do so far.
AIM. POINT. SPRAY.
Twilight descends upon the sky creating an incomprehensible cloak of darkness. Moving from shadow to shadow through the dense brush. I wonder if I’m almost home?
There are no street lamps here. The moon is gone. I float through a philharmonic black hole. A chorus of crickets and yellow locusts harmonize with the melancholy carol of the Bell frog.
Red grass tickling bare knees. Flip flops click against the give of the earth.
The sounds of neighbors, flickering lights in the distance, the aroma of roasting firewood- almost home.
My feet find the familiar winding path to my front porch. I step out of my shoes.
What is the time? I drop my schoolbag and head to the refrigerator, its soft glow lights the room. I sip mango juice from the carton. Four classes in a row, it has been a long day.
I close the refrigerator and make my way across the room to find the oddly placed light. Coming home after dark is an obstacle course.
I head down the hallway and into my room. My fingertips graze the wall for the bedroom light. Click. The elephant print wall hanging, the package to send home. Stepping out of my skirt and into shorts, something is askew. A bristly blur clings where the cracked indigo wall meets the dull concrete.
The shape, slowly registers, paralysis strikes. Eight muscular legs curl. My breath pizzicato, marks my descent into ether.
You do not belong here!
Dashing to the hall cabinet, ready for battle, feeling for Baygonne bug spray, I return. The spider, a huntsman, larger than my hand, clings defiantly, unmoved.
Intruder!
I hear him his.
You do not belong here.
Shaky hands. Gummy teeth, I aim, point, spray. The hiss, tiny particles twirl and dance catching the light. The huntsman inflating, rises, massive. A spastic sprint of angry circles.
Aim, point, spray. Trembling arms, breath seized. The huntsman up the wall, launches towards me.The can crashes to the concrete.
On jelly legs, I run down the hallway, through the kitchen, out the door, into darkness. Black sky, close, crushing. Trembling, alone.
Uncertain steps backwards. The downward slope of wet grass. I’m running, searching for anyone, someone to help me. Finally a television glare and an open door. Two boys are seated atop a fraying tan mat. Startled eyes. A football match, a begging stranger.
The eldest rises. An uneasy glance is shot towards his brother. A raised hand to say-stay. Beneath the black sky he joins me. Four brisk feet, uncertain. Shoes off before the door. Through the kitchen, past the hallway, into the room. Pointing, gesturing, the man-hunt begins. The boy shakes curtains, lifts the rug, opens drawers, checks the mosquito net. Silence.
Pacing the kitchen, arms crossed, biting my lower lip, I can’t bear to watch. The clock ticks, a moth flits towards the light. The smell of tea. Nails piercing arms.
The boys startled scream, a brown finger pointing, shaking towards an overturned pink suitcase. With a look of defeat, the boy quietly shakes his head, ready to go home.
The front door closes.
I hear it again- You don’t belong here.
Standing in the kitchen, exhausted and alone. No plan. A wobbly kitchen table, tonight’s bed.
Lying on pineapple print tablecloth, knees to chest, ear on shoulder, I’m unable to sleep. Blinking madly into darkness, feeling inconsolably small and defenseless. The American teacher in Tanzania, unsettled, alone.
My flip flopped feet sunk into the mud. I should have known better, better than to sign up for a swampy mangrove excursion with only flip-flops as footwear, but I didn't. Ohm, attached to my back in his Ergo carrier, kneed my ribs like an experienced horseman. Steadying myself, I grabbed a vine from a tree to my left.
"Step on the log." Winston, our guide called.
Griping the vine, I hoisted my weight onto a sunken log, the only steady ground in a sea of mud. Praying Ohm would settle and stop shifting about, I took short quick steps.
Mud caked around my feet and ankles. Having learned about the delicate red mangroves, natural purifiers of water and about their heartier cousins the black and white mangroves and having encountered various medicinal herbs and plants, we were making our way through the mangrove swamp to the crocodile nursery to encounter Jamaica's endangered crocodiles.
Pausing for a moment to catch our breath in a clearing dotted with almond trees, Winston cracked a few casings with a rock providing us a hearty and intimate sample. The almonds were small and sweet.
"Yeah man. We eat almonds everyday. They good for everything, heart, skin..."
Before the almonds it was basil, before the basil it was ackee, before the ackee it was mint. We had run into a little bit of everything.
After a short adventure onto a rickety narrow wooden dock that was missing just about every other plank, we came to a wooden platform surrounded by a fence. White herons circled the trees that grew from the brown placid water.
Opening a cooler, Winston produced raw chicken parts.
"John!" he began to holler, hurling a chicken breast into the water.
"Come here John. Dinner time."
"They answer to names- the crocodiles?" I was confused.
"Oh yes. John I call first because he's small and lives over there to the left beyond those trees. He gets intimidated by Herold and Daniel, so I let him eat first. He usually pops up right here."
Winston pointed to a spot in front of Mark.
"You may want to stand back. Sometimes he shoots right out of the water. You know crocodiles can stand on their tales and jump six feet into the air."
I didn't know.
"How high is this fence?" I felt a sudden sense of urgency.
"Five feet."
Mark and I both took a few steps back.
"John! John!!!! Hey John!! Come here!!!"
Slowly the water near the trees to our left began to ripple. John's tawny head appeared. Slowly, steadily, he made his way towards us stopping along the way to grab pieces of chicken.
"Hey! John man!" Winston called out.
John stopped before the platform and turned to acknowledge Winston. He turned again to size Mark up.
"Fish!" Ohm called with a shriek.
"No, that's a crocodile." I corrected taking another step back.
Unimpressed, John sunk beneath the water apparently having other more pressing plans to attend to.
"He's my favorite, John. I come out here and have lunch with him every Tuesday and Friday. We have a good ole' time." Winston chuckled as he said time, as if human crocodile lunch dates were commonplace.
Then it was back to business.
"Herald! Daniel!" Winston began to hurl whole chickens into the water. "These are the big guys. More than nine feet."
"Nine feet? How big was John?" I couldn't wrap my head around the sizing.
John to me looked enormous, I couldn't conceptualize John being a "little guy".
"Nah. John a small ting. Almost six feet, not full sized. Herald and Daniel, now they're the big bosses." Winston released another one of his hearty chuckles as I took yet another step backwards.
"Daniel! Herald! Come now, dinner!"
Winston hurled one lifeless pallid chicken carcass after another into the water. I was beginning to feel nauseous.
"You know, crocs, they do what they wanna do. I don't think they're coming out. It's a shame. You should see them."
Mark and I both agreed that it was indeed okay. We could imagine their grandeur.
We began the thirty minute trek home; over the dock, through the swamp, past the almond trees, into the mangroves, past the ackee trees and nooni fruit, the basil and the mint, through a horse stable at the base of the mountain and into the familiar.
The Mangrove and Crocodile Excursion at the Rhodes Resort is so much more than an up-close peek at some of natures most feared beasts, it's a chance to experience and understand the abundant natural beauty of Jamaica. Within the span of the tour, you encounter so many diverse ecosystems and micro-climates. It is truly a unique site to behold.
My name is Lynne Marion. I am from a country characterized by four (4) seasons (i.e. Winter, Spring, Summer & Fall), that has breathtaking natural landscapes across its 8,893 km (5,526 miles) width from coast to coast, and contains the most fresh water sources in the world- Canada.
2. Where do you currently live and what is your occupation?
I am currently living in the province of Quebec (eastern Canada), in the suburbs of Montreal.
I am an Intuitive Life Coach. My mission is to illuminate people & inspire them to tune into their inner wisdom and, simultaneously, align themselves to their true desired lifestyle.
As an Intuitive Life Coach, I help people journey within… I guide my clients into seeking for answers & inspirations, by connecting themselves to their inner wisdom. In essence, I accompany them to travel within and to tap into their infinite array of possibilities.
3. What is the first country you traveled to internationally? What were your impressions?
My first international backpacking experience was in beautiful tropical Costa Rica! I was 18 years-old. I left with a group of five friends (including my boyfriend at the time), to backpack around this ‘rich coast’ country for one month. The only fixed plan we had was a departure date along with a return date. Everything in between was to be created by us. It was a blissful experience!
I discovered the different micro-climates the country has to offer. I visited volcanoes, snorkeled off the shore, walked along beautiful natural sandy beaches, danced under the stars, listened to Bob Marley music play everywhere, drank 2$ bottles of rum, camped on the beaches, sat amongst the rich biodiversity in the National Parks, swam in waterfalls, got awakened in my tent by a loud population of monkeys hanging outside in very tall trees, learned to speak Spanish with the local populations (with the help of my portable mini dictionary), enjoyed fresh fruit every morning, …
In sum, this first backpacking adventure trip was a.m.a.z.i.n.g!
4. When did you first realize you were bitten by the travel bug?
In 1999, I was studying at the University of Montreal towards a Bachelor’s Degree of Psychology. As an elective course, we had the possibility of participating in an international volunteer project. It was an elective course that ran throughout the school year that involved several components.
This volunteer project involved fundraising, learning a new language, pre-departure trainings, receiving proper vaccinations, budgeting, and attending meetings with the coordinating professor as well as the international development organization, to name a few.
After 8 months of preparation, along with 7 of my fellow female bachelor colleagues, I flew off to Bolivia to work for an institution that offered different services to handicapped children (mentally and/or physically). The final stage of the project, i.e. the actual internship, was held during the northern hemisphere’s summer months (May to July). Each volunteer was assigned in a different department between physiotherapy, educational psychology, outdoor activities for autistic children, and speech therapy. Personally, I worked in the educational psychology department to help elementary level children with learning disabilities.
I distinctly remember that, as our plane was landing in La Paz (the capital city), I was absolutely speechless upon seeing the massive impressive mountains surrounding us… Welcome to the world of La Cordillera de Los Andes Lynne! I had never experienced such proximity with elevated mountainous altitudes before. I was beyond mesmerized by the energy emanating from this chain of mountains…
The capital city of La Paz has varying elevations, ranging from 3,200 to 4,100m (10,500 to 13,500ft). Hence, adaptability was the first lesson learnt on the field. At this altitude, my body was intensely reacting to the 50% oxygen level (?!). It was such a strange, unique feeling. It is hard to describe with words the effects of less oxygen on my body.
Throughout that summer, I learned to speak Spanish, I enjoyed working with the children, I made new Bolivian friends, I discovered the bustling city of La Paz, I witnessed a heap of manifestations in the streets, I sipped the famous tea el mate de coca (made from coca leaves), I hiked several mountains, I visited the beautiful Inca influenced island: Isla del Sol (where there are no motor vehicles or paved roads), I smiled at friendly alpacas, I offered dynamite + cigarettes to the young employees of the Potosi Mines, I discovered the incredible salt flat: Salar de Uyuni.
What an unbelievable summer! It exceeded all of my expectations! It represented much more than an elective university course.
At that moment in time, standing in the middle of the streets of La Paz, with the breathtaking blue sky, I KNEW with all of my heart that I wished to travel for a living! I loved, loved, LOVED living & working abroad!!! I had found a new passion: international development work. I could picture myself traveling to diverse countries, learning new languages & making new friends while simultaneously contributing to community projects. It was the perfect fit! I thought to myself ‘this is the beginning of an incredible life chapter for me ’.
And so it was…
5. Do you have a travel mantra?
My travel mantra… I assume it would be to connect & respect the local populations in the country that I am visiting or living in.
As an international soul (as I like to declare myself), it is very important for me to sense & feel the lifestyles of the populations. When I live abroad or travel somewhere, it is essential for me to share & connect with places and people.
In my eyes, the richness of international traveling is held within the exchanges between me and the people or the environment. This explains why I love to live & work abroad as opposed to punctually experience sightseeing or tourism.
6. If you could spontaneously pack up tomorrow and head anywhere in the world, where would you go and what would you do?
My next destination would be Asia. I would go to 2 countries I have never been before.
I would firstly fly to the island of Bali, in Indonesia. This island seems very spiritual & zen. The beaches, the culture, the traditions, the language, its people, everything inspires me about Bali! I would spend time discovering the island’s treasures and enjoy the beautiful beaches. I would probably opt for a yoga retreat, eat healthy delicious foods and experience the Balinese vibe. (I have been wishing to go to Bali for over 20 years now…)
Secondly, I would fly to Chennai, in India. Why Chennai specifically? To spend time at the ashram and meet my wonderful spiritual guide/guru/Master! I would spend as much time as possible to take time out, benefit from this exceptional spiritual environment, and focus on my meditation practice.
The ashram holds space for 10, 000 people to meditate at once. How amazing must that be, to meditate surrounded by 10, 000 other souls… It will be a rejuvenating, inspiring experience!
I would like to share advice for the travelers of this world …
From my different travel experiences, there is one important element that I find has always benefited me and is to be considered before embarking on an international journey to ensure fulfillment & satisfaction… that is to identify the purpose of your travels.
This may seem trivial, but I assure you it is not. Throughout my travels, I have met fellow travelers that have not had such successful travels because of not considering their initial purpose for traveling (especially those traveling in pairs or with their partner or in groups). I have even witnessed couples/groups separate and stop being friends because they had not initially considered each person’s purpose to travel.
The idea is not to have the exact same tastes or interests for everything, but it is to see if your interests converge overall or not. For instance, if your best friend wishes to accompany you on a European Tour and your purpose is to see as many museums as possible and to visit historic sites whereas his/her purpose is to party as much as possible, enjoy the nightlife and meet new friends without caring too much about history, then the probability of your trip being a success might be jeopardized.
Thus, the next time you are planning a trip, I suggest you ask yourself: what do I wish to gain from this experience? What am I seeking for? Why do I wish to travel to X place/country? Is the purpose of your travel to be distracted? To learn a new language? To taste different foods? To make new friends? To see as many sites as possible? Etc. The clearer you are on your traveling purpose(s), the easier it will be to experience a trip that best corresponds to YOU. (Rest assured, no matter how much planning you do in advance, there will always be room for unpredictable adventures & anecdotes)
Negril has few tourist attractions, despite being a popular tourist destination. Aside from the beaches, travelers tend to stay behind the gates of their resorts.
There is one place however, set further back from most of Negril's resorts where tourist flock.
No trip to the Negril area is complete without a visit to the famed Rick's Cafe!
Made famous as the place where visitors can take a daring 35 foot leap from the West End Cliffs into the sparkling azure water below, Rick's Cafe attracts tourists and locals by the throngs.
Surprisingly laid back for such a popular and packed tourist destination, we were easily able to find a table where we sipped the famous rum punch and watched tourists and locals dive and belly flop off of the West End Cliffs.
What they say is true, the sunset is stunning. Not only is the sunset stunning, but the views in general are fantastic. From Rick's Cafe, you get a clear view of the Negril Lighthouse as well. Rick's Cafe is surprisingly intimate and romantic.
Rick's Cafe is surprisingly family friendly (for a large touristy bar). There is a wading pool on the second level which was full of water wing clad toddlers.
Rick's is a great place to meet and chat with locals.
As with most touristy places the menu is over priced. If you're already staying at an all-inclusive resort, I suggest having drinks and appetizers. There are a lot of options to choose from. The food and drinks are pretty standard, the draw is clearly the ambiance.
We had the pleasure of staying at the Rhodes Resort during our stay in Jamaica last month. Located on the historic Rhodes Hall Plantation, the Rhodes Resort was a low key natural oasis of calm.
This is the perfect resort for nature lovers and interactive travelers. Free of frills and touristy tack, Rhodes Hall is a place of respite, reflection and connection.
Accommodation:
The Rhodes Resort has 27 all inclusive and room only, suites, villas and family cottages. Rooms and verandas are fully furnished with a local flair and come with a variety of amenities. We spent a lot of time hanging out with the peacocks that made a home in the mango tree at the corner of our veranda.
Maid service is available daily and towels and basic toiletries are provided.
Food:
The food at the Rhodes Resort is mainly provided by the Bay View Restaurant which is located on the resort. Along with phenomenal views of the Caribbean Sea, I appreciated the fact that I was served traditional Jamaican dishes and not Western inspired meals. You can order off the menu at the Bay View Restaurant or you can purchase a meal plan which covers three meals a day for a set fee. The meal plan is the way to go if you plan to spend the majority of your time on the resort as there are few other options due to its secluded nature.
Other dining options on the resort grounds include the Jerk Grill (seasonal) and the Plantation Bar.
Amenities:
A mile of untouched private beach off of the Caribbean Sea
Hammocks
A healing salt water infinity pool
Free shuttle service to and from Negril
Activities:
Scuba Diving
Mountain and Beach horseback rides
Eco-Tours
Mangrove and Crocodile Sanctuary Tours
Arawak Cave Tours
Bird Watching
Snorkeling
Glass bottom boat reef tours
A stay at the Rhodes Resort on the Rhodes Hall Plantation is a unique experience. It is a chance to intimately experience the raw and natural beauty of Jamaica and connect with the simple pleasures of life.
I'd like to thank the Rhodes Resort for a wonderful stay. We will be back!
When choosing to travel during the Fall season, the decision can be filled with gnawing questions of location, location, location. With temperatures not quite low enough to warrant a tropical getaway and a snow-filled ski trip still a few months away, deciding on the perfect destination can be a bit tricky.
The consummate compromise?
Look to a countryside vacation to satisfy any autumnal wanderlust.
There's nothing like the pure, crisp air and lush, kaleidoscopic vegetation during this time of the year to center oneself, and finally take a moment to simply relax. With this intention in mind, no suitcase will be complete without these 10 essential pieces for a fully-functional Fall travel wardrobe. Classic, versatile, and effortless, even for a fledgling fashion plate, these items can be mixed-and-matched to accommodate anything - from unpredictable weather to unexpected excursions - whether traipsing into town for a Michelin-rated dinner, or cavorting in the country for a vineyard visit or two.
(note: a healthy dose of both are highly recommended!)
*Collage was created/edited by N'Djamena via Polyvore
Whether used as a blanket to fight the chilly plane air, or layered over a loose tank when temperatures rise, a scarf or pashmina is the #1 piece no traveler should be without during this time of year.
Pictured: Acne Oversized 'Canada' Pashmina in Camel
A chic choice to not only protect your face from the still-bright sun, but also provide a bit a warmth - especially during the evening when temperatures can take a drastic dip.
This closet staple will serve endless outfiit options, time and time again. Whether paired with boots, heels, or flats, the sleek silhouette will keep you looking chic and streamlined.
Cozy and comfortable, a long cardigan is a perfect choice for when a light, extra layer is in order, whether wearing jeans and boots, or a dress and heels.
Ideal for navigating both city and country terrain, a waterproof boot which looks equally at home frolicking on the English Moor as it does on strolling down Main Street is essential
A firm believer in the idea that you never know where the night (or day, for that matter) may take you, a clean, classic pump is a fool-proof method for taking a casual outfit to the next level.
This bag ultimately ties any ensemble together - the sleeker the shape, the more versatile the bag and therefore, the better!
Pictured: Topshop Embossed Satchel
Beauty Bonus: Don't forget to pack these must-have items to ensure a fresh, dewy complexion throughout your travels - after all, nothing complements a great outfit more than great skin!
Evian Facial Mist - Spray to revive dull, dehydrated skin both on and off the plane.
Sea Buckthorn Oil - Apply topically to face to moisturize, protect against free radicals and combat signs of aging.
Try: Sibu Sea Buckhtorn Oil Topical Treatment
Kohl Eyeliner - A multi-tasker's dream; draw a thin line to define eyes for a subtle daytime look, or for a smokier, evening look draw thicker line on top and bottom lash lines and smudge. No time for mascara? Dot in between lashes directly on lash line to create the illusion of fuller, thicker lashes.
Try: Laura Mercier Supreme Black Kohl Eyeliner
Dior Creme de Rose - This luxe lip balm exemplifies the term overachiever, also highly effective as a skin softener, cuticle cream, and even solid perfume.
A lifelong lover of fashion, N'Djamena Walker can recount CNN's Style With Elsa Klensch as one of her very first memories of fit. Today, the 28 year old spends her days working in the industry as an Operations and Territory Account Manager for a national brand and private label women's wear wholesaler, and has been enlisted to lend her styling talents for multiple projects. By night, she can be found working diligently on her blog Je Veux...J'Adore... as well as on her work as a contributing fashion writer for such sites as Joonbug.com and Dualshow.com. Counting runway reporting and trend forecasting as specialization areas, and having multiple New York Fashion Weeks under her belt, she hopes to continue both her fashion writing and travel journeys - as well as add to her international Vogue collection - by attending and reporting on the ready-to-wear and haute couture collections in London, Milan, Paris, Berlin and Sydney.
We moved gingerly and in a straight line down the dusty dirt road. Cars and bikes whizzed by blowing hot smoke at our calves. The sun pulsed down upon us like a stage spotlight, highlighting our every move as we were hassled mercilessly by men on the street.
"Come get some juice!"
A man in a red shirt was waving to us from the side of the road. I could barely make out a sign that read fresh juice. We hesitated, then continued walking.
"Come on over. I've got cold juice." He beckoned once more.
This time we stopped and made our way over to discover a beautiful gem in Negril.
Before I arrived, I envisioned myself sipping freshly blended juice, drinking raw coconut water and eating ital food by the beach. I pictured rastas with shining skin and gorgeous locks. I heard the songs of Bob Marley and knew I would have a soul stirring great time.
The reality of modern Negril :
-There were no rastas
-We couldn't find any ital food
-American fast food chains were everywhere
-Negril was an impoverished, underdeveloped city ravaged by crime
Just as we had given up all hope of making any meaningful connections and having any positive exchanges, we found the One Love Juice Cafe, or rather, it found us.
Towards the little stall and the man in the red shirt we crept. I ordered a simple carrot and cucumber juice with raw sugar cane.
The owner, an easygoing man named Michael sat down with us, as did two of his friends. It would be another three hours before we got up.
Michael, born and raised in England, lived in New York for twenty years, and had just moved back to his native Jamaica to open his juice bar, the only juice bar as it would turn out in Negril. It was his first week in business and his goal was a mighty one- to bring health and vitality back to Negril.
Talking to Michael and his friends, we learned about the medicinal properties of sugar cane, a powerful source of natural chlorophyl. We talked sea moss and meditation. We talked about the diabetes and cancer epidemics that are currently plaguing Jamaica. We talked about the poverty, crime and helplessness.
I got a backstage tour of Michael's juice factory. It was inspiring to see how driven and passionate he was about wellness and healing. He distilled his own water. Had elaborate juicers and extractors. Michael was a man with a mission.
We left for our modest eco-resort on Green Island after the sun set. We left with new friends and new understandings. I finally got my fresh juice.
If you find yourself in Negril, you must make your way to see Michael at the One Love Juice Cafe next to the Corner Bar in Negril's West End. It is well worth the trek. If you are on your way to Rick's Cafe or the Lighthouse you'll pass it on the way.
Due to its surprising popularity, I'll extend my Flash Fiction Friday segment. Thanks so much for all of the great writing feedback. Happy Friday ;)
BEDTIME STORY PART II.
“People work in cycles,” Kaylah sensing my distress, said one evening.
I was eating pea soup on the window-ledge. Kaylah was in her usual chair, looking over files from work.
“Artists, the criminally insane, there is one constant, the cycles.”
She worked as a psychologist in a home for the mentally disturbed. She was used to cycles.
“If it doesn’t come to you, don’t stand around waiting. Don’t beat yourself up. Find a new angle. If you’re not in a creation cycle, decide what you want this next cycle to look like, until it is creation time again.”
In the back room, Kaylah’s child whimpered, I was left staring at the Manhattan skyline, juggling her words.
I stopped fighting my stagnancy. I surrendered all attempts to direct my hands letting whatever manifested take residency on my canvas. My work without judgment was allowed to lean against our apartment walls and grow into itself. Neither portraits or abstract cells, these paintings were outlines of both.Devoid of my characteristic colorful parade of patterns, these pieces were pastel, tainted with gray. Sometimes, John, Kaylah’s son, would drag his crayons across the edges of the pieces I allowed to rest on the floor. Surprisingly complimentary, the wisps gave the paint character. I did not stop him.
copyright 2013, Sojourner Walker, All Rights Reserved
