Today, I’m introducing my FIRST giveaway. Why? In launching a new blog (surprise!), I’m forcing followers of this blog to redirect here. Since I believe that hard work should be met with rewards, I’m coupling that effort with this: the chance to win something unique. The prize? One winner will select an 8×10 photographic print … Continue reading
I’ve been busy; lately, I’ve swirled, sipped, and delighted in copious cups of good wine (and as you can see above, tea). All, I’m telling you, in the name of ahem, research. From further afield, my insight: A guide to Turkish wine, plus wineries to visit in Turkey’s enchanting land of fairy chimneys. You must try it, … Continue reading
China. Zhōngguó. 中国. It’s the Kingdom of extremes, and one that’s utterly baffling to most outside of it. For me, however, China allures as strongly as the poignant smell of Chòu dòufu (or, stinky tofu). If you haven’t been to China before, trust me on this one, it’s powerful. This country, frankly put, is like nowhere else I’ve … Continue reading
The count is clear; two days remain. My mind is muddled. An overwhelming flood of changes are about to occur. However, first, I’m heading to La Rioja for the battle of wine! Afterward, I want to discover Cataluña beyond its capital. Perhaps enjoying some vermouth from the source? Then, finally, Turkey. I’m traveling solo, confident, and … Continue reading
At 25, I still don’t have a smartphone. It’s alarming to some, astonishing to others, and truly a first-world problem to all. For me, it’s something that just “sort of happened”. After a stint in Chile to China to Spain, I couldn’t rationalize the purchase, especially with my constantly changing zip code. In my head, … Continue reading
As I reminisce over my last two years spent in Spain, and its abrupt end (within 30 days), I wanted to wrap up my emotions with this post. It’s dedicated to my first Spanish love, the city of Granada. With its flirty bohemian spirit, Granada lures many to it. Students, hippies, circus freaks (I did see … Continue reading
Lured, like many, with the promise of virgin beaches, I made the pilgrimage to Almería. Though the city itself is rarely a stop on most tourists’ itineraries of Spain, I’m here to say, they’re missing out. For a foodie on a budget, Almería allures even more. Whether gazing longingly at a Mediterranean sunset or hopping … Continue reading
I could see Clint Eastwood’s subtle smirk as soon as I entered the café. From the photo, it was easy to determine the scene. With a gun clutched in his right hand and a black cowboy hat perched high, Eastwood looked equal parts town hero and Western cowboy superstar. As I strolled past Eastwood (only … Continue reading
Recently, I discovered something new. After just one sip, I realized I had been missing out on something truly dynamic and different. My newly educated mind tingled with the drink’s alcohol heft, its subtle sweetness, and most of all, its interesting interplay of herbs and spices. Vermouth. How had I not known about it? Those privy to it, … Continue reading
A year ago, I was living in another Spain. Though just four hours away from my current life in Madrid, it was as if stepping into another country, a place you may have heard of, called Andalucía. As I knew Baeza, my small city in Jaén, it was a place defined by poetic words, an … Continue reading
Cut the Kitsch 