A NEW Blog & a Giveaway!
China / Expat Life / Giveaway / Photography / Spain / Tips / Travel / Turkey

A NEW Blog & a Giveaway!

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

A primer to Turkish Wine, secrets of La Rioja, and more
Addictions / Beer / Spain / Travel / Turkey / Wine

A primer to Turkish Wine, secrets of La Rioja, and more

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

Let’s Talk China
China / Expat Life / Food / Photography / Tips / Travel

Let’s Talk China

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 future, it’s undoubtably mixed
Addictions / Festivals / Local / Madrid / Photography / Questions / Spain / Travel / Wine

The future, it’s undoubtably mixed

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

Traveling smart (through an iPhone) in Spain
Addictions / Food / Madrid / Nature / Photography / Spain / Tips / Travel

Traveling smart (through an iPhone) in Spain

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

Painted pigeons and other oddities, Almería’s a must
Andalucía / Food / Nature / Photography / Spain / Travel / Wine

Painted pigeons and other oddities, Almería’s a must

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

Marvels (like vermouth) in Madrid’s Markets
Addictions / Food / Local / Madrid / Olives / Spain / Wine

Marvels (like vermouth) in Madrid’s Markets

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