#even cheap hotels are $60-80 a night now I think?

[freepassbound]

The last post's point on time is incredibly crucial to the discussion - "cheap" travel options do exist (though in this case "cheap" still likely represents a significant chunk of a less-well-off family's annual recreation budget - indeed possibly nearly all of it) - but they almost certainly don't have the time needed to take any kind of lengthy vacation. As noted, the vast majority of Americans simply don't get paid vacation time - hell, even in most professional positions, two weeks is the standard (and even then taking it is frowned upon) - and they also have jobs where, if they aren't constantly available to work, they'll be fired. So even if they can cobble together the funds needed, they'll never have the opportunity.

since moving here ive noticed europeans have no concept of how few americans ever leave USA. every american tourist youve met is of an economic crust that is vastly unobtainable to the other like. 85% generously. no matter what you have believed i can guarantee this. even getting to canada isnt really a possibility and the mexico-US border is highly controlled and militarized.

to put it into perspective. a ~2 hour flight from london to warsaw is like. 30 to 45 USD?

and a 2 hour flight from one US city to another would be about 130 USD

it was very cheap to fly here. i make over 100k USD now and i dont know if ill ever be able to afford leaving. if that gives you an idea of how prohibitive travel is here. i havent even touched on how the US has Zero guaranteed holidays by the govt. many people here go years without ever having an entire week off of work

this has had a like. massive impact on American Brain and they dont even know it because travel isnt even a consideration economically. they dont even know how much more vacation time european countries have guaranteed

[honking-up-a-storm]

6/28/23

I'm sweaty and it's pouring out. Lots pretty empty, slow day, I'm not gonna complain after yesterday. Odd my head is pretty empty. Had a goal this morning and I guess my brain is focused on getting that done when I can't. I need a laptop and a tall chair out here, speaking of chairs I'm so happy with my new one, it's so comfy. I think I wanna take a trip out to NYC soon. I wanna go on my own or with my friends, I really don't wanna go with my parents. You know this book came with two others, lined and graph paper and yet I'm using the blank paged one to write. How silly is that? Anyways yhea New York. I could do a weekend trip. Amtrak is $60-$80 and I don't really need to spend more than $70-$100 on a nice hotel room for a night or two. Though I could check if flights are cheaper, ok Google says it kinda just depends on the day for which is cheaper. My aunt is a flight attendant maybe I could just ask for buddy passes even though they're a bit unreliable. Now the lot is filling up. But also like travel times, the train is surprisingly more reliable. I wonder why hotel rooms in times square are so cheap. I wasn't even looking the location up I just searched NYC and they popped up. But god yhea do not wanna be there. Visit for a second sure, but staying, hell no. But like what would I do there? Nintendo store... Which is ironically in TS. I could go- this guy smoking is killing me. I could go to some other specialty shops around the city. We really just be doing a shopping trip that's what this is. Of course, we can do some tourist stuff like sightseeing. Maybe hit up [Friend] and see if he wants to see a show or something (he'd probably say Moulin Rouge, he's seen the damn thing like 10 times now). But shit I've never seen a show on Broadway. I know I'd love the Disney ones, but I've heard tourist audience etiquette has been abysmal, so I wouldn't get to really enjoy it. I don't even know what else is playing. Like I know Sweeny Todd is, but I'm terrified to even look at ticket prices for that. Which sucks because it's one of my all-time favorites. All my favorites are Sondheim. Ew yhea barely anything under $100, hell very limited in finding anything under $200-$300. I don't think I can rationally pay anymore than like $150 since even though I love the art form and craft, seeing live shows are a memory dump kinda situation where I can remember most of the night but none of the performance, I don't know why I have this curse but I do. I think it's an eyesight thing. Yippieeeee a ten dolla dolla bill. Not the mosquito.

[youreawizardharr]

About Me

Unusual Asks by Luxet

1. Spotify, SoundCloud, or Pandora? 

I never tried spotify before, but I have installed Pandora. I didnt like the app, so I uninstalled it. I listen to soundcloud mostly.

2. Is your room messy or clean?

When I had a room, I kept it clean.

3. What color are your eyes?

It depends. Like, whenever I wore eyeliner and mascara, my eyes took on a green color. Naturally, my eyes are a shade of blue with hints of some kind of color I cant describe.

4. Do you like your name? why?

I love my first and middle names. If you truly want to my name, its Christa. I absolutely despise my surname. I get teased for it...

5. What is your relationship status? 

Uh...single.

6. Describe your personality in 3 words or less?

If you play Otome games, think of Yukimura (IkeSen) or Kyle Ash (IkeRev). I share some similarities with the two of them lmao 😗

7. What color hair do you have?

Brown? Or maybe more of a nutmeg?

8. What kind of car do you drive? color?

I'm old enough to drive, but I cant right now.

9. Where do you shop?

Anywhere, honestly.

10. How would you describe your style?

The only clothes I hate wearing is dresses, skirts, and overalls. I refuse to wear them.

11. Favorite social media account?

It used to be Facebook. However, I had personal issues with some people, so now I'm more active on Tumblr. I also have a Deviantart account but I never post there.

12. What size bed do you have? 

It used to be a twin size...

13. Any siblings?

Due to my past, I dont speak with my brother. I dont even talk to my biological father. As far as I'm concerned, he's just my sperm donor. I always saw my step father as my dad, so my half sister is my sister 😊

14. If you can live anywhere in the world where would it be? why?

I always imagined what it would be like being born and raised in another country.

Somewhere in Europe? Not sure.

15. Favorite snapchat filter? 

I dont use Snapchat nor Instagram...

16. Favorite makeup brand(s)

I rarely ever wear makeup.

17. How many times a week do you shower?

I'm poor, but I do take showers.

18. Favorite tv show?

I have too many to list lmao

19. Shoe size?

I believe its 6 or 7? I'm not sure...

20. How tall are you?

I'm 5'3" (I'm shorter than a shortcake).

21. Sandals or sneakers? 

Sneakers, hands down.

22. Do you go to the gym? 

I'm too lazy to go...

23. Describe your dream date

I never been on a date before, so I'm unsure.

24. How much money do you have in your wallet at the moment?

I'm broke as a door nail.

25. What color socks are you wearing? 

Blue, black and white ankle socks.

26. How many pillows do you sleep with?

I usually sleep with two.

27. Do you have a job? what do you do? 

I have things to do before getting one.

28. How many friends do you have? 

I only have internet friends. Sad, I know.

29. Whats the worst thing you have ever done? 

I...did some bad things.

30. Whats your favorite candle scent? 

It depends.

31. 3 favorite boy names?

I always wanted to name my kid Cameron, for some weird reason. Its a common name.

32. Favorite girl names

I uh...I'm not really sure?

33. Favorite actor? 

Johnny Deep, Adam Sandler, and Jim Carey.

34. Favorite actress? 

Uh I'm not sure.

35. Who is your celebrity crush?

When High School Muscial was a thing, I had a crush on Zack Efron. I was a young teenager back then, so don't judge me, okay?

36. Favorite movie? 

Pirates of the Caribbean, 10,000 B.C, and most historical related movies. I'm a nerd 👌

37. Do you read a lot? whats your favorite book? 

My favorite books are Knight in Shining Armor, Black Dagger Brotherhood, etc.

There is a Viking series I loved. I know one was called Lord of Hawkfell Island, another was called Lord of Raven's Peak, but I cant remember the others.

38. Money or brains? 

Money cant buy everything...

39. Do you have a nickname? what is it? 

Ketchup & Kikka

40. How many times have you been to the hospital?

I always went with my mom. I never got seen or anything. She has asthma, COPD, so yeah.

41. Top 10 favorite songs

If today was your last day - Nickelback

Savin Me - Nickelback

If everyone cared - Nickelback

Hero - Nickelback

Holding onto Heaven - Nickelback

When I'm Gone - Three Doors Down

Never too late -Threr Doors Down

And countless other songs 😂

42. Do you take any medications daily? 

Over the counter medications

43. What is your skin type? (oily, dry, etc)

I have sensitive skin. I cant use certain brands of soap, and I have to be careful when outside, because I get sunburned easily.

44. What is your biggest fear? 

Dealing with people...

45. How many kids do you want? 

At least one. Or maybe two.

46. Whats your go to hair style?

I dont have a style...

47. What type of house do you live in? (big, small, etc) 

Its a secret.

48. Who is your role model? 

I admire my mom.

49. What was the last compliment you received?

I dont take compliments well...

50. What was the last text you sent?

Uh I texted my sister last night.

51. How old were you when you found out santa wasn’t real?

Uh...I knew at a young age.

52. What is your dream car? 

I dont have a dream car.

53. Opinion on smoking?

Its your body, your choice. But I prefer if people dont. My mom suffers from COPD and Asthma. She always contracts Pneumonia. The three of them clashes against eachother, and makes her really ill.

54. Do you go to college? 

I wanted to go, but cant afford it.

55. What is your dream job? 

One that doesnt require interacting with people...

56. Would you rather live in rural areas or the suburbs? 

I live in the country side. Well, kinda.

57. Do you take shampoo and conditioner bottles from hotels? 

I used to, but they're cheap...

58. Do you have freckles? 

I do have moles on various places. I do have freckles on my shoulders, but nowhere else.

59. Do you smile for pictures?

I dont do selfies or anything else...

60. How many pictures do you have on your phone? 

I have two screenshots of Kyle Ash lmao

61. Have you ever peed in the woods? 

Yeah, when I went camping as a kid.

62. Do you still watch cartoons? 

I'm too old for cartoons...

63. Do you prefer chicken nuggets from Wendy’s or McDonalds?

I like my mom's chicken nuggets.

64. Favorite dipping sauce? 

Hot sauce, Salsa, sometimes ketchup.

65. What do you wear to bed? 

Uh baggy clothes?

66. Have you ever won a spelling bee?

I hate presentations...

 67. What are your hobbies?

Writing

68. Do you draw? 

I used to draw, but I suck at it

69. Do you play an instrument?

I suck at playing instruments.

70. What was the last concert you saw? 

Never been to one.

71. Tea or coffee?

I drink both, but more so tea.

72. Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts?

Dunkin Donuts

73. Do you want to get married?

Someday, maybe.

74. What is your crush’s first and last initial?

I never dated anyone before...

75. Are you going to change your last name when you get married? 

Definitely, because I despise my last name.

76. What color looks best on you? 

I'm not one to be fashionable lmao

77. Do you miss anyone right now? 

I miss my aunt. She died years ago...

78. Do you sleep with your door open or closed?

I always slept with my door closed...

79. Do you believe in ghosts?

I did experience paranormal stuff years ago.

80. What is your biggest pet peeve? 

Being ignored, being called a liar, etc, etc...

81. Last person you called?

My sister.

82. Favorite ice cream flavor? 

Uh gelato, hands down.

83. Regular oreos or golden oreos? 

Both of them.

84. Chocolate or rainbow sprinkles? 

Chocolate.

85. What shirt are you wearing? 

Just a plain, ole t-shirt.

86. What is your phone background?

Just something random.

87. Are you outgoing or shy?

Awkward af ._.

88. Do you like it when people play with your hair?

Uh I enjoy personal space.

89. Do you like your neighbors? 

I dont know them, so I cant say?

90. Do you wash your face? at night? in the morning?

Both.

91. Have you ever been high? 

Um, no.

92. Have you ever been drunk? 

Yeah, several times.

93. Last thing you ate? 

Baby lima beans.

94. Favorite lyrics right now?

"No one can be me anyway."

95. Summer or winter? 

Winter. I hate hot weather.

96. Day or night? 

I'm a night owl, so I enjoy nighttime.

97. Dark, milk, or white chocolate? 

I love me some chocolate.

98. Favorite month? 

July, my birthday month

99. What is your zodiac sign

Cancer

 100. Who was the last person you cried in front of? 

My mom.

[kylorenpunk]

Payback is a bitch. Do them all.

“itAy thanks for curing my evening boredom

1. Who was the last person you held hands with?

     I think it was my friend Elli during a service project or my friend when we went to the movies (we occasionally pretend we’re a couple when we go to the movies lmao) 

2. Are you outgoing or shy?

    Shy. It was super hard to make friends during grade school. But if you put me with the right people I can be outgoing. 3. Who are you looking forward to seeing?

     My friend group tomorrow. I think we’re playing smash again? 4. Are you easy to get along with?

     I think so? I have no idea tbh. I know I was a bitch when I was younger though. Hopefully I don’t put off those vibes now 5. If you were drunk would the person you like take care of you?

     The only time we interacted I was drunk so no lol. 6. What kind of people are you attracted to?

     Tattooed, nerdy vibes, can make me laugh, nice eyes, idk I just like guys ok7. Do you think you’ll be in a relationship two months from now?

     HA. Nope. 8. Who from the opposite gender is on your mind?

     Romantically? or friendship? Also bold of you to assume whoever does these are straight. To answer, my friends who are all homies. 9. Does talking about sex make you uncomfortable?

     Depends on the subject. I am always down to make sex jokes but don’t fucking tell me the shit you did with your SO the other night.10. Who was the last person you had a deep conversation with?

      I’m always down for deep convos tbh so I do this frequently. I think the last full length deep convo I had was with Jessica though? 11. What does the most recent text that you sent say?

      “LMAO” to Joey bc I rick rolled his ass. Bitch apparently I’m always texting you?   12. What are your 5 favorite songs right now?

       According to spotify it’s: Alexander HamiltonGoodbye Yellow Brick Road (Sara Bareilles’ cover) When I Was Your Man (Aaron Tveit’s cover) The Greatest Show The number one song is one I don’t listen to any more so I’ll replace that with the song I’m listening to “How Far I’ll Go” 

13. Do you like it when people play with your hair?

      God yes. That’s the BEST feeling. 14. Do you believe in luck and miracles?

      Not really miracles. But I do believe in luck in a sense 15. What good thing happened this summer?

      My birthday. Going to Chicago. 16. Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?

      Sure I’ll kiss my mirror again. Sorry y’all I don’t kiss and tell.17. Do you think there is life on other planets?

      Absolutely.18. Do you still talk to your first crush?

      I have had so many I don’t remember my first crush. And I know for a fact I didn’t start talking to crushes till the middle of high school19. Do you like bubble baths?

      No I hate baths. I think it’s gross. 20. Do you like your neighbors?

      I like their dogs. Especially the beautiful pit I get to dog sit 21. What are you bad habits?

      I get very nervous very easily. I’m unsure of myself. I’m also messy.22. Where would you like to travel?

      New York and Europe 23. Do you have trust issues?

      Who doesn’t? 24. Favorite part of your daily routine?

      When I go to sleep.25. What part of your body are you most uncomfortable with?

      My stomach. 26. What do you do when you wake up?

      Check my phone. It’s really bad. 27. Do you wish your skin was lighter or darker?

      Neither. I like my skin color even though I’m pale as fuck. 28. Who are you most comfortable around?

      I’ll have to say my friends Yara and Josephine. Love all my other friends and no offense to y’all I’m just really self conscious 29. Have any of your ex’s told you they regret breaking up?

      LMAO one basically did the other day. At least he regrets how he treated me. That’s some tea. 30. Do you ever want to get married?

      Hell yeah. Am I currently ready for it? Hell naw. 31. If your hair long enough for a pony tail?

     She’s too long. I really want to cut her but that costs money. 32. Which celebrities would you have a threesome with?

      Chris Hemsworth and Anne Hathaway. Or Vanessa Hudgens33. Spell your name with your chin.

      done. That was strange? 34. Do you play sports? What sports?

      I did soccer for one season when I was 6. I spent most of the time playing with my hair. That was the end of my athletic career. 35. Would you rather live without TV or music?

      TV bc we have netflix and hulu 36. Have you ever liked someone and never told them?

      Tons of times. It’s my brand. 37. What do you say during awkward silences?

      I’ve been doing shitty mouth pops recently. I also start rambling about my day.38. Describe your dream girl/guy?

      Someone that puts up with my bullshit 39. What are your favorite stores to shop in?

      TJ Maxx. Ulta. Target. I don’t shop often. 40. What do you want to do after high school?

      I’m outta that shit hole. Have been for 5 yrs. 41. Do you believe everyone deserves a second chance?

      Of course. 42. If your being extremely quiet what does it mean?

      I’m listening fully and don’t really have anything to contribute yet. 43. Do you smile at strangers?

      Working at a hotel has forced me to. I hate it. 44. Trip to outer space or bottom of the ocean?

      SPACE MOTHERFUCKERS - the ocean freaks me out45. What makes you get out of bed in the morning?

      Needing to pee, hunger or work 46. What are you paranoid about?

      EVERYTHING. Mainly the future tho 47. Have you ever been high?

      Nah. Not opposed to it though. 48. Have you ever been drunk?

      Yep. I get really touchy. It’s weird. 49. Have you done anything recently that you hope nobody finds out about?

      Stalk people’s social medias? 50. What was the colour of the last hoodie you wore?

      Grey 51. Ever wished you were someone else?

      I wish I was Vanessa Hudgens. 52. One thing you wish you could change about yourself?

      I won’t write it here 53. Favourite makeup brand?

      NYX. Cheap and good. 54. Favourite store?

      Target 55. Favourite blog?

      My own. 56. Favourite colour?

      Pink or Green. Depends on the day.57. Favourite food? 

      Anything with pasta or rice 58. Last thing you ate?

      pasta 59. First thing you ate this morning?

      beef jerkey. I have weird cravings60. Ever won a competition? For what?

      For being the world’s most emotional bitch 61. Been suspended/expelled? For what?

      Hell no. Stay in school kids. 62. Been arrested? For what?

      Nope.63. Ever been in love? 

      Yep. Still don’t kiss and tell. 64. Tell us the story of your first kiss?

      I know I just said I don’t kiss and tell but this isn’t talking about the person. Wet. Gross. Sloppy as fuck. They were shit at kissing. 65. Are you hungry right now?

      Nah. 66. Do you like your tumblr friends more than your real friends?

      I have one tumblr friend. He’s a pal. 67. Facebook or Twitter?

      Twitter68. Twitter or Tumblr?

      Twitter. I’ll make one for this blog soon. 69. Are you watching tv right now?

      No I’m listening to Miss Independent by Kelly Clarkson. 70. Names of your bestfriends? 

      Kim, Michelle, Jessica71. Craving something? What?

      Nothing. 72. What colour are your towels?

      Pink and green72. How many pillows do you sleep with?

      It used to be two until I got a new giant pillow this week. 73. Do you sleep with stuffed animals?

      I have them. I don’t sleep with them. 74. How many stuffed animals do you think you have?

      Four. I just counted. 75. Favourite animal?

      Meerkats 76. What colour is your underwear?

      Pink. 77. Chocolate or Vanilla?

      Vanilla 78. Favourite ice cream flavour?

      Strawberry79. What colour shirt are you wearing?

      Grey and pink 80. What colour pants?

      Dark grey and green - I’m in house clothes I don’t match 81. Favourite tv show?

      Jane the Virgin 82. Favourite movie?

      Hairspray 83. Mean Girls or Mean Girls 2?

      Mean Girls. The second one was trash 84. Mean Girls or 21 Jump Street?

      Mean Girls85. Favourite character from Mean Girls?

      SHE DOESN’T EVEN GO HERE 86. Favourite character from Finding Nemo?

      Bruce87. First person you talked to today?

      Joey?88. Last person you talked to today?

      Joey. What the hell. 89. Name a person you hate?

      Hm they don’t need their name here90. Name a person you love?

      My brother91. Is there anyone you want to punch in the face right now?

      Someone from work 92. In a fight with someone?

      Nah I don’t deal with that bs 93. How many sweatpants do you have?

      None. I do leggings tho ( I think I have 7 or 8)94. How many sweaters/hoodies do you have?

      2 hoodies 95. Last movie you watched?

      The Green Book96. Favourite actress?

      Anne Hathaway? 97. Favourite actor?

      Mark Hamill 98. Do you tan a lot?

      I burn a lot. I’m pale99. Have any pets?

       No 100. How are you feeling?

        Alright. Kinda pumped bc my fav cover of Come Together came on (from the Justice League movie)101. Do you type fast?

        Yes but this is still taking me a while to get through 102. Do you regret anything from your past?

        Hell yeah. No tea is being spilled tho103. Can you spell well?

        If I have a pen and paper I’m decent. 104. Do you miss anyone from your past?

        I miss some ppl yeah. Adulting sucks bc you can’t see everyone all the time105. Ever been to a bonfire party?

        Lol that was the only rebellious thing I would do in high school 106. Ever broken someone’s heart?

        Not that I know of? 107. Have you ever been on a horse?

        Yes I love horseback riding 108. What should you be doing?

        Studying for the GRE109. Is something irritating you right now?

        Boring drama stuff. I won’t go into details. I’ll get over it. 110. Have you ever liked someone so much it hurt?

        Everyone has. 111. Do you have trust issues?

        Sis you already asked this. Yes. 112. Who was the last person you cried in front of?

        My mom? I was crying bc I could fit into old shirts 113. What was your childhood nickname?

        Family calls me Kari. Friends call me Rina114. Have you ever been out of your province/state?

        Yep. Last month. 115. Do you play the Wii?

        We play Netflix on the wii116. Are you listening to music right now?

        “I am Woman” by Jordan Sparks 117. Do you like chicken noodle soup?

        Only from a can. I hate soup. 118. Do you like Chinese food?

        Fuck me up with crab rangoons 119. Favourite book?

        Eragon120. Are you afraid of the dark?

        I don’t like not being able to see. So sure. 121. Are you mean?

        I’m a dick to those I care about. Sorry. 122. Is cheating ever okay?

        Absolutely not. Dump their ass. 123. Can you keep white shoes clean?

        Nope. 124. Do you believe in love at first sight?

        I believe in infatuation at first sight125. Do you believe in true love?

         Not sure 126. Are you currently bored?

        I was till I started this 127. What makes you happy?

        anime, superheros, nerdy shit, music and makeup 128. Would you change your name?

        No. I used to want to as a child. 129. What your zodiac sign?

        Cancer. 130. Do you like subway?

        No. It’s gross. 131. Your bestfriend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do?

        Politely decline132. Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with?

        Already answered. 133. Favourite lyrics right now?

        “Yoko Ono, she got that Yoko OnoYou know that shit that made John Lennon go soloKnow that shit gotta be lethalIf that pussy broke up The Beatles” - Jay Z

Murder by Justin Timberlake (Featuring Jay Z)134. Can you count to one million?

        I could. I don’t want to though.135. Dumbest lie you ever told?

        Not sure. 136. Do you sleep with your doors open or closed?

        Closed. 137. How tall are you?

        Five foot. Three inches. 138. Curly or Straight hair?

        My hair is wavy. I like both.139. Brunette or Blonde?

        I’m a brunette140. Summer or Winter?

        summer141. Night or Day?

        day 142. Favourite month?

        october143. Are you a vegetarian?

        nope but i’ve considered. 144. Dark, milk or white chocolate?

        dark chocolate. I’m old. 145. Tea or Coffee?

        tea - coffee gives me the shits 146. Was today a good day?

        It was decent. 147. Mars or Snickers?

        Mars148. What’s your favourite quote?

        “It’s not who we are underneath, it’s what we do that defines us.” - Batman Begins 149. Do you believe in ghosts?

        Yes and No150. Get the closest book next to you, open it to page 42, what’s the first line on that page? (via catscuddlingandyou)

         GRE prep book “Directions:” It said more but my fingers hurt from typing all day. 

[berlinaura]

The preparations for March have begun! I have booked a trip to Zagreb-Lubljana-Venice! I am also in the process of booking some more. I was thinking of going to Athens but I’ll see what’s gonna happen. Also, 2 more days until Scotland! I am so relieved right now because the exam week was last week and looks like I am going to pass all courses (4/5 are already passed, I still need to wait for the result from the last one)

I have been out with friends every weekend now the past 2 months I think. Somehow we just always end up at Que Pasa... One Tuesday I had a movie date and went to see Knives Out which was actually really good movie! The trailer did not do it any justice. I always get asked whether the movies here are all dubbed. Most of them are but there are also options for non-dubbed versions so watching movies in original language is no problem as long as you make sure beforehand which version it is going to be :)

On Valentine’s day we went on a sushi date and then just stayed in with drinks. This was the first time I celebrated Valentine’s day on a non-platonic way. 

This week my parents visited Berlin. I had the most intensive study period because of exams but I managed to see them on three days. We visited the most common touristic places like Brandenburg gate, Reichstag and the holocaust memorial. The next day we went to the natural history museum of Berlin. The dinosaurs were impressive! One room was full of jars filled with sea creatures and that place was too much for me. That looked like a place straight from my nightmares :/ Afterwards we went to the oldest block in Berlin, Nikolaiviertel, for “a coffee” but ended up in a traditional pub and had beers and bratwurst. Third day I joined them for their hotel breakfast and got to eat something else than dry toast :D After my exam I met up with them again and we went bowling. This was the same place as I visited in early fall but I forgot how old fashioned the place was. The screens were straight from the 80s, showed false scores and the machinery used for clearing out pins jammed basically every minute. No wonder the place got a rating for 2 stars, lol. For an occasional amateur bowling this place is suitable I think.  

My exams went well. The oral exam I had could have gone better. We were assigned 10 minutes and I felt like I was in a job interview. We had pre-written questions but the teacher didn’t let me answer my answer to the end because he was already bombing me with additional questions. I despise oral exams compared to written ones because I crave for a paper and pen to organize my thoughts. I felt like I didn’t have any time to think what I was going to say. Additionally, the teacher asked super vague questions such as “and how does this relate to the framework of the lecture...?” I started thinking which framework he was referring to because that word had been used to address like 5 different things. Then he asked a more specific question to “help me out” and I knew all of the answers. His feedback afterwards was “I wished you had guided the conversation more, I felt like I had to continuously ask you things for you to say the right things!”  well no shit! 

After the exam they asked me whether I preferred working in group 1 or group 2 (we had to group works in this course and different groups each time). When i said I preferred group 2, they were BAFFLED. “Really!? Even though the first group was so much better”. I said “I evaluate my experience through the group dynamics and fair allocation of work, not based on the final grade” and they were speechless, lol. Also, they used such a long time justifying the grade (which was 1,7 going in to the category “good”) and weren’t interested in my overall experience of the course. Rather than asking if I found the course useful etc, they asked me if I am satisfied with the grade and if I feel like it was fair. I mentioned that I am really in that point where I have no energy for stressing over grades and I am here to learn rather than polish up grades. I said that the course was interesting and I feel like I had been learning a lot of new things, which is totally true, I liked the course very much! I also said the grade is going to be “pass” for me in any case so to begin with, I attended the courses for my own learning and not for the grade. This concept seemed to be hard for them to grasp.

I have noticed this as a big difference in my home university and TU Berlin. Here, people seem to obsess way more about grades. Even the teachers are grade-oriented. I don’t understand how people survive in a system like this, especially when the written tests are 60-75 mins and TENS of pages long. The environment of actually learning rather than proving memorizing skills is something that I will definitely appreciate better when getting back. 

Last Friday, after my last exam I threw a WG party! We were supposed to play board games but since ONE of us had something against Monopoly, we played Exploding Kittens as well as normal card games and beer pong. I taught “Hitler” (which we translated to “Stalin” to be more acceptable) and “Fuck the dealer”. We tried our best to drink all of my leftover booze but there’s still some left! After opening up about our lives, playing the coin game, doing worm dance, sharing our sex preferences, clearing out what is wrong with Whisky sours and Pewdiepie’s accent, making drunk calls for friends and drawing each others, we did NOT follow the original plan of going to a pub and headed home. It was a successful night! I left my phone home though as we left to the night and worried everybody for the next day while I was just peacefully chilling and watching movies.

* a month passes by *

Okay so I don’t even know where to start. I am currently in Finland and my exchange year is over. I passed all exams but I left a lot of erasmus stuff unfinished as I had to leave Berlin due to Corona virus. 

In the end of February we did the trip to Scotland. First we flew to Edinburgh from where we took a bus to Glasgow. This place was super cozy but also very cold. The trip was extremely relaxing. We drank beer and coffee, visited some sights and ate the best pizza I’ve ever tasted in my life. I also took the first Uber trip of my life. After 2 days we took a bus to Stirling, a random small town in Scotland. We wanted to spend the day there because we wanted to see a real Scottish castle. Stirling was the best getaway vacation where you can just relax in old fashioned boutiques and cafes and listen to birds. We walked up to the castle but didn’t enter because it cost 16 pounds each “:D”. After a few hours we continued our journey with a train to Edinburgh where we spent 2 more days. 

Honestly, I enjoyed Edinburgh a bit more than Glasgow. Our hostel was in a perfect location, about 200m away from the Edinburgh castle. We visited the castle (from the outside, again), went to movies to see “Jojo Rabbit”, drank beer and played board games in pubs. One day we were supposed to go shopping but decided to climb up the extinct volcano, Arthur’s seat. The road was super muddy but a lot of people seemed to be climbing up there, even in late February. Some dude gave us a snarky “Starbucks is over there” comment on top of it because my friend expressed her concerns getting down the muddy hill because it started raining... This quickly became our go-to line to say whenever we saw a Starbucks in the city. 

After this trip I had 2 days in Berlin which I used for doing laundry and chilling. Then I headed to Zagreb, Croatia. This time I was traveling by myself so I engaged with the activities my hostel had to offer. The hostel choice was superb! They had just the kind of common room and activities I was looking for. We sang karaoke, played beer pong and just chatted in the common room. I don’t think I’ve never felt so young, wild and free than then, lol. I used one day basically for shopping at the mall and walking there. I ended up buying tights and an overall badge. 

After 2 days in Zagreb I took a Flixbus to the neighbor country, Slovenia. Ljubljana surprised me positively. I had no expectations whatsoever but this city was beautiful and lively! I think I could have spent one more day in Ljubljana. I climbed up to the Ljubljana castle at night and watched the city which seemed HUGE from up there. There were city lights as far as I could see, yet the city has under 300 000 residents. The prices were also super cheap. 

The next day I went shopping again and.. BOUGHT TIGHTS. There is this shop that only sells tights and socks. As I had been buying a bunch of skirts from Berlin, I felt a need to buy a few pairs of special tights so I did. The room in my backpack was limited so I also had to consider my buying urges a bit more than usually. Of course I also bought a badge from Ljubljana, too. In the afternoon I took a bus to Bled, a city in North-West Slovenia. This bus trip took around 1,5 hours and I was so confused because it was a mixture of tourists and pre-teens coming from school. There was no board that announced the stops so I tried looking at signs to know when to get off. Eventually I got off at the Bled lake which was one of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. I read that a lot of people get married in these surroundings and no wonder! 

I walked around the lake, taking pictures from time to time and enjoying the view of the lake, alps and a beautiful castle in a small island in the middle of the lake. After I left Bled, the cloudy sky cleared up to a beautiful sunset with a few pink clouds and I just could get my eyes off the mountains. The teens in the bus didn’t seem to appreciate their surroundings but I guess that’s just the way it goes.

The next day I was supposed to take the bus to Venice, but due to corona outbreak I adjusted my trip and took the bus to Vienna instead. I was in the Flixbus for 4 hours but the time flew by. I think I want to make another trip like these because honestly, Flixbuses are so cheap, yet they are modern and traveling through small European countries goes by so quickly. It also allows me to look at the views or Netflix, eat snacks and get fresh air in breaks. From Vienna I flew to Berlin, though. I was surprised I found a flight for 20 euros because I booked it so late. 

I was supposed to spend 4 days in Berlin before going to Munich with my sister but the corona situation got so much worse that I decided to wrap up my school stuff (which I couldn’t because my school closed its doors and I didn’t get an answer from a professor that I needed a signature from). I moved my flight from the end of the month and flew to Finland feeling fucking depressed. The overall atmosphere in the whole Europe (and world) is now melancholic, chaotic and uncertain. At first I was feeling annoyed because of my canceled Munich and Athens trips but then I started panicking if I’d even get back to Finland so now I am glad I got home safe. I am spending the next 1,5 weeks in quarantine - I got home just in time before 

This whole month has been hectic and I am going through a lot of positive and negative feelings at the moment. I’m gonna make one more post after I have gathered my thoughts.

[dashonkelley]

all of them ;)

oh boy alright here we go 

(1) Do You Sleep With Your Closet Doors Open Or Closed? closed always

(2) Do You Have Freckles? yess i do, on my face mostly 

(3) Can You Whistle? nope

(4) Last Song You Listened To? Don’t Ya by Brett Eldridge 

(5) What Is Your Favourite Colour? blue, any shade

(6) Relationship Status? single af

(7) What Is The Temperature Right Now? 68 F

(8) Did You Wake Up Cranky? i don’t think so

(9) How Many Followers? just hit 1000!!

(10) Zodiac Sign? scorpio bitch

(11) What Is Your Eye Colour? brown :/

(12) Take A Vitamin Daily? lol nope

(13) Do You Sing In The Shower? ....yeah

(14) What Books Are You Reading? just textbooks right now

(15) Grab The Book Nearest To You, Turn To Page 64, Give Me Line 14. no

(16) Favourite Anime? i don’t know any sorry

(17) Last Person You Cried In Front Of? my mom i think

(18) Do You Collect Anything? nerdy child me used to collect state quarters

(19) What Did You Have For Lunch? chipotle!

(20) Do You Dance In The Car? um sometimes?

(21) Favourite Animal? ahh dogs?

(22) Do You Watch The Olympics? yes i love them duh

(23) What Time Do You Usually Go To Bed? around midnight

(24) Are You Wearing Makeup Right Now? i haven’t worn makeup in a year lol

(25) Do You Prefer To Swim In A Pool Or The Ocean? depends on the day

(26) Favourite Tumblr Blog? all my mutuals :)

(27) Bottled Water Or Tap Water? bottled probably

(28) What Makes You Happy? my puppy

(29) Post A Gif Of What You’re Currently Feeling Right Now. ooh i’ll find one later

(30) Do You Study Better With Or Without Music? without, or with just one song on repeat 

(31) Dogs Or Cats? dogs

(32) If You Were A Crayon What Colour Would You Be? probably blue

(33) PlayStation Or Xbox? neither? xbox?

(34) Would You Swim In The Lake Or Ocean? i’ve done both many times

(35) Do You Believe In Magic? uh not really

(36) What Colour Shirt Are You Wearing? dark red

(37) Can You Curl Your Tongue? i sure can

(38) Do You Save Money Or Spend It? save always, i’m so cheap

(39) Is There Anything Pink Within 10 Feet Of You? does my drink count?

(40) Do You Have Any Obsessions Right Now? soccer i guess

(41) Have You Ever Caught A Butterfly? yeah!

(42) Are You Easily Influenced By Other People? depends on the person, usually not though

(43) Do You Have Strange Dreams? every night, it’s a journey

(44) Do You Like Going On Airplanes? i don’t mind it

(45) Name One Movie That Made You Cry. oh every movie makes me cry

(46) Peanuts Or Sunflower Seeds? peanuts, or the ranch flavored sunflower seeds

(47) If I Handed You A Concert Ticket Right Now, Who Would You Want The Performer To Be? 5H or Carrie Underwood 

(48) Are You A Picky Eater? not as much now

(49) Are You A Heavy Sleeper? eh not really

(50) Do You Fear Thunder / Lightning? nope, love it

(51) Do You Like To Read / Write? i like to read when i have time

(52) Do You Like Your Music Loud? i guess so

(53) Would You Rather Carve Pumpkins Or Wrap Presents? neither tbh

(54) Put Your Music On Shuffle, What Is The First Song That Came Up? Blank Space - taylor swift

(55) What Season Are You In Right Now? (Weather) it’s florida, we don’t have seasons

(56) What Are You Craving Right Now? sleep

(57) Post A Screenshot Of Your Tumblr Feed. no thanks

(58) What Is Your Gender? girl

(59) Coffee Or Tea? tea

(60) Do You Have Any Homework Right Now? If So, What Is It About? so much homework, about depression, suicide, and violence  

(61) What Is Your Sexuality? gayyy

(62) Do You Make Your Bed In The Morning? never

(63) Favourite Pokemon? idk?

(64) Favourite Social Media? hm tumblr or instagram

(65) What’s Your Opinion On Instagram Stories? i like them now

(66) Do You Get Homesick? when i’m away i get very homesick

(67) Are You A Virgin? wouldn’t u like to know...

(68) What Shampoo And Conditioner Are You Using Right Now? herbal essences i think? for long hair

(69) If You Were Far From Home And Needed To Sleep For The Night, Would You Choose To Rent A Crappy Motel Room For $60 Or Sleep In Your Car For Free? uhh this cheap ass bitch would drop some cash for a nice hotel... i don’t mess around when it comes to sleeping

(70) Are Both Of Your Blood Parents Still In Your Life? oh they’re here alright

(71)  Whats The Next Movie You Want To See In Theaters? justice league!

(72) Do You Miss Your Ex? not at all

(73) What Is Your Favourite Quote Right Now? i don’t have one... send me some

(74)  What Eye Colour Do You Find Sexiest? blue! love them

(75) Did You Like Swinging As A Child? Do You Still Get Excited When You See A Swing Set? yes and yes!!

(76) What Was The Last Thing You Ate? a chocolate chip cookie

(77) What Games Do You Have On Your Phone? i’m not sure i even have any tbh... i deleted them all

(78) Would You Give A Homeless Person CPR If They Were Dying? Why Or Why Not? i would hope so, i’m in nursing school lol

(79) Been On The Computer For 5 Hours Straight? i’ve done it

(80) Stalked Someone On A Social Network? sure

(81) Do You Like Meeting New People? depends? sometimes

(82) Do You Wear Rings? If You Do, Take A Picture Of Them. nope never

(83) Do You Sleep With Your Bedroom Door Open Or Closed? closed

(84) What Are Three Things You Did Today? ate food, watched football, studied

(85) What Do You Wear To Bed? sweatpants and t-shirt 

(86) List All Of Your Different Beauty Products You Have Right Now. um like none actually lol

(87) Are You A Day Or Night Person? night

(88) List All Of Your Video Games On Your Phone, Console Etc. none!

(89) Tell Me About A Dream That You Had And When It Happened. oh boy... they’re all so long and complicated... but the other night i dreamed that ko competed in/won a fitness game show hosted by adam levine

(90) Favourite Soda Drink? dr. pepper

(91) What Sounds Are Your Favorite? i like rain

(92) Do You Wear Jeans Or Sweats More? those are the only things i wear, in equal amounts

(93) How Do You Look Right Now? a hot mess probably 

(94) Name Something That Relaxes You. watching youtube maybe

(95) What Tattoo Do You Want? still deciding!

(96) Favourite YouTuber? hm probably grace helbig

[southrift-galaxy-safaris-blog]

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Egypt (& Not Just the Pyramids!)

Egypt is a land of dreams for travelers looking for a bustling destination with a vibrant culture. For Europeans, Egypt has been a popular spot (among Turkey and Tunisia) to go for a resort getaway with occasional day trips to Luxor and Cairo. Growing up, I remember seeing many chartered flights to Sharm El Sheik and Hurghada, and everyone and their mother has been to Egypt. It’s no surprise that Egypt has been the first place I traveled to solo after my high school graduation back in 2007, at the age of eighteen. However, Egypt for Americans has never been a ‘hot spot’, but after my second independent trip to Egypt I can say that it surely should be! Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Egypt. Safety in Egypt First things first: is Egypt safe? Absolutely! When I visited Egypt back in 2008 safety wasn’t the biggest concern. Unfortunately, nowadays most of the Middle East is currently in a political or social unrest, but we often forget to see the difference between Egypt and the rest of the Middle East. Sure, there are some regions which are not safe, but there are also regions where are perfectly fine. Just like in any other country and city. That said, everywhere in Egypt I was told that the only rules for tourists in Egypt are to “enjoy and feel like at home”. As you may know by now, Egypt is NOT on the travel alert or travel warning list for the U.S Department of State. Tourist attractions are largely safe and not under any threat. Egyptians are one of the most welcoming people I’ve ever encountered on my travels (among Iranians!) and they love tourists. Not once I felt in any danger anywhere in the country, people constantly had my back when I looked lost or unsure I was very saddened to read a lot of other blog posts saying that everyone in Egypt wants your money, as it’s absolutely not my experience. I met locals trying to help me on numerous occasions, asking me if I’m all right, feeding me good food. Everyone was nothing but nice to me. When to Go to Egypt? Don’t make my mistake during my first visit by going to Egipt in the summer. In summer, temperatures can get up to 45 degrees Celsius in dusty, so Luxor and Aswan are unbearable. Remember that nights can be freezing so bring a sweater and a pair of warm socks. Trust me, you can thank me later. The best time to go to Egypt is surely between October and April. The tourist high season is considered from December to February, so if you come slightly out of season you will also enjoy cheaper hotel prices and fewer crowds. Also, make sure to avoid traveling during Ramadan. How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Egypt? Not much. Egypt is comparatively cheap if you’re coming from a developed nation. For a bed in a dorm, you’ll usually pay about $4, guesthouse would be about $12 per night and a higher standard shouldn’t be more than $150. If you’re backpacking you could get by for $30 a day without any issues.   The most expensive thing I paid for in Egypt was my hot-air balloon flight ($50). Always carry a lot of coins and small bills. You will have to “tip” many times a day, for all kinds of reasons. While you don’t HAVE TO do this, it’s customary to for instance give some coins to a bathroom lady who hands you a few sheets of toilet paper. I was completely fine with tipping here and there, especially after visiting some of the poorest neighborhoods of Cairo and Luxor. Food in Egypt I enjoyed the food in Egypt very much. I ate anything from basic kebabs to local vegetables and rice, through the most traditional dish – Koshary. It’s a mix of rice, macaroni, and lentils topped with tomato-vinegar sauce and fried onions. If you’re staying in local hostels or hotels be prepared that you’ll be served a LOT of food. Quite often for breakfast, I was receiving a few bread rolls, 8 balls of falafel, hummus, omelet, hard boiled eggs, french fried, yogurt and a fresh smoothie. It was impossible to eat it all!   How to Get Around Egypt Plane Domestic flights in Egypt as affordable and great. You’d be looking at two airlines: EgyptAir and NileAir (I can only personally vouch for EgyptAir and they’re great). For a flight from Cairo to Luxor or Aswan, you’ll pay about $50-80 one way and the flight takes about an hour. Bus If you’re on a strict backpacking budget, you might want to look into Go Bus. Their buses are very comfy, cheap and easy to book on the website or app on your phone. Train Sleeper trains are another popular way of traveling, but since my flight to Luxor cost me the same as the sleeping train would have, the choice was obvious. Boat (Nile Cruise) There is a cruise on the Nile that starts in all of the touristic cities, and most tourists decide to do it. Many travelers think the Nile Cruise is the only way to get to some places, which isn’t true as the same places can be reached by car or bus. Keep in mind that it’s not going to be a very local experience hanging out at the pool and eating touristy food on the boat. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that but it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. I opted for a cheaper version staying in local guesthouses. Uber & Taxis In Cairo, you can take Uber anywhere and it’s extremely cheap. For instance, an average taxi trip from Cairo Airport to downtown Cairo should not cost more than 50-60 LE, whilst a journey from Cairo Airport to the Pyramids go for 100-110 LE.   See Related Tours Walk in The Footsteps of Jesus Tour  Top Self Drive Holiday Deals in Kenya If you think you have to travel far to enjoy a nice weekend, you may never get away. Besides, you can enjoy a beautiful weekend right here in Kenya. There are countless wallet-friendly Kenyan self drive getaways that won’t even break your budget. Don’t spend your weekend, doing absolutely nothing at home. Whether you are looking for romantic destinations, pristine beaches, and adventurous outdoor activities, there are plenty wallet-friendly getaways that will satisfy your weekend desires. Malindi & Watamu Self Drive Deals Mombasa South Coast Self Drive Deals Mombasa North Coast Self Drive Deals Masai Mara Self Drive Holiday Packages Lukenya & Machakos Self Drive Meru Holiday Self Drive Deals Mt. Kenya & Aberdare Self Drive Holiday Deals Nyeri Holiday Self Drive Deals Samburu Holiday Self Drive Deals Top Outdoor Activities in Kenya Outdoor activities in Kenya are a great way to experience Kenya, Choosing where to start in Kenya can be overwhelming. The country has many different outdoor activities, ranging from adrenaline-pumping adventures to more meditative outings. Kenya is always a fantastic destination for family bonding. Spending time with the family on weekend is a great opportunity to re-connect and communicate while having fun. Outdoor activities are perfect for those who want to experience a relaxing and refreshing weekend in an amazing place. Do something fun this weekend and spend worthy time with your family. For great weekend bonding, we present to you 6 fun outdoor activities for the family. These outdoor activities are great adventures for you and your family. Hike To Ol Donyo Sabuk & 14 Falls, Thika Chaka Ranch Day Trip – QuadBikes, PaintBalling Ngare Ndare Day Trip Hike (Nanyuki) Kereita Zip Lining & Hiking Day Trip Top Madaraka Express SGR Holiday Deals 2 Nights Malindi & Watamu holiday with SGR 2 Nights Amboseli Holiday With SGR 2 Nights Tsavo Holiday With SGR Sa 2 Nights Voi Holiday With SGR 2 Nights Mombasa North Coast With SGR 2 Nights Mombasa South Coast With SGR Read the full article

[rufeepeach]

Tagged by @thescholarlystrumpet and @evilsnowswan!

Favourite

1. Drink: Red Bull Coffee

2. Phone call: @iambicdearie

3. Text message: My friend Emma, arranging things for my birthday

4. Song you listened to: Esmerelda by Ben Howard

5. Time you cried: Yesterday. I was overtired, had had a stressful morning, and next week is going to be an anxiety nightmare.

6. Dated someone twice: Lol no.

7. Kissed someone and regretted it: Yes. I still feel bad about it now.

8. Been cheated on: No. You have to date to be cheated on ;)

9. Lost someone special: I mean it depends what you mean by ‘lost’. Lost as in they died? My grandma died a few years back but she was very old so it wasn’t unexpected. Lost as in they’re out of my life now? Oh fuck yes.

10. Been depressed: I’m depressed all the time. I’m depressed right now. Given my life, I’d be depressed right now if I didn’t have clinical depression, but since I do? Hoo boy.

11. Gotten drunk and thrown up: Vodka. Fuck vodka. I don’t drink vodka for this reason. I always throw up when I drink vodka.

Favourite colors

12. Purple

13. Rose gold

14. Silver

In the last year have you…

15. Made new friends: Yes :)

16. Fallen out of love: No - you gotta fall in love to do that.

17. Laughed until you cried: @iambicdearie showed me John Mulaney’s entire repertoire. I laughed until my mascara ran and my stomach hurt.

18. Found out someone was talking about you: Not recently I don’t think? I haven’t had much to do with people who I don’t know super well this year, most of the people in my life right now are family and close enough friends to be called extended family. 

19. Met someone who changed you: In the last year? I honestly don’t know. If you’re willing to backdate it a few months then yes.

20. Found out who your friends are: Yes. Oh fuck yes. Having an ongoing family nightmare and needing support really shows you who you can rely on and who’s not worth your time.

21. Kissed someone on your Facebook list: Nope.

General

22. How many of your Facebook friends do you know in real life? All but a small handful. I don’t accept friend requests unless we’ve met at least once. 

23. Do you have any pets? This is my kitty Nightshade. She is a little old blind lady who loves cuddles, sardines, and blankets. She is also the chattiest cat I’ve ever known and will carry on a whole conversation in meows.

24. Do you want to change your name? No, more because I think it’d fuck with my sense of identity than because I love my given name. I’m still trying to figure out if I’d want to publish under a pseudonym though.

25. What did you do for your last birthday? Went to a really great Pacific-fusion restaurant in Manchester, saw Bridget Jones’s Baby, then went for cocktails.

26. What time did you wake up? 11:30am. I love summer.

27. What were you doing at midnight last night? Watching Brooklyn Nine-Nine with my parents.

28. Name something you can’t wait for: Moving to Bristol in September!

29. When was the last time you saw your mum? Like half an hour ago? I can hear her downstairs.

31. What are you listening to right now? Stephen Colbert’s monologue from last night.

32. Have you ever talked to a person named Tom? It’s a really common name? Although the last one was Creepy Tom from my masters course who brings drugs to every party and insisted on trying to hug me. He did not succeed.

33. Something that is getting on your nerves: My anxiety disorder.

34. Most visited website: Tumblr.

35. Hair colour: Light brown, blonde at the ends where it’s still growing out.

36. Long or short hair? Long :D I’m never cutting it short again!

37. Do you have a crush on someone: Like a tonne of fictional wizards and celebrities. No one in real life right now, though, thank god. 

38. What do you like about yourself? I’m coming to realise I might be as smart as my mum thinks I am. It is confusing. 

39. Piercings: I’m terrified of needles so fuck no.

40. Blood type: No idea.

41. Nickname: People who know me from here sometimes call me Ru, but more and more it’s just @amuseoffyre who does that anywhere but online. My given name is Helena and that isn’t easily shortened to anything nickname-able. I’m not really someone people have any desire to give nicknames to. 

42. Relationship status: Single as fuck.

43. Zodiac: Libra

44. Pronouns: She/her.

45. Favourite TV show: RTD-era Doctor Who, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Black Sails, and I have such a complicated relationship with Once Upon A Time I don’t even know how to characterise it. 

46. Tattoos: See above re: no needles.

47. Right or left handed: Right.

48. Surgery: I’ve never even been a patient in a hospital.

49. Piercing: Wasn’t this also question #39? 

50. Sport: I don’t do sports. Does yoga count?

51. Holiday: Bonfire Night :D

52. Pair of trainers: I finally shelled out for some New Balance last year and yes, I know they’re problematic, but they’re the comfiest shoes I own.

More general

53. Eating: Hotel Chocolat chocolate-covered coffee beans. I’m hooked.

54. Drinking: Water. I’m seriously dehydrated.

55. I’m about to: Probably go get something more substantial to eat.

56. Waiting for: All this fucking stress to go away and my dissertation to be finished.

57. Want: To be happy and calm for a while.

58. Get married: If I met someone who I honestly wanted to spend my life with, then for legal reasons I’d be okay getting married. I just don’t see marriage as a goal in and of itself. It’s more a way of formalising something that will either happen or it won’t. 

59. Career: Pray for me to get one of these insurance paralegal jobs. I need to start my legal career soon or I’m going to tread water forever.

60. Hugs or kisses: Hugs, always.

61. Lips or eyes: Eyes. Pretty eyes are incredible.

62. Shorter or taller: Taller for dudes, shorter for girls.

63. Older or younger: Older men, women the same age as me. I don’t tend to get on as well with people younger than me, or men my own age.

64. Nice arms or nice stomach: Arrmmsss.

65. Hook up or relationship: Relationship. I’m demi as fuck so I don’t do hook ups.

66. Troublemaker or hesitant: I am caution personified. Except academically. I’m a philosophical troublemaker ;)

67. Kissed a stranger: See above re: demi as fuck.

68. Drank hard liquor: Yep. I’m trying to train myself to drink whiskey for fun.

69. Lost glasses/contact lenses: I lost a pair of super expensive glasses at the Iron Man 3 midnight IMAX screening and had to get some shitty cheap ones. I was stuck with them for like three years.

70. Turned someone down: Pretty much everyone who’s ever asked me out.

71. Sex on the first date: DEMI AS FUCK although on the other hand if I’m dating someone then I’m probably also up for having sex with them. It’s weird idk.

72. Broken someone’s heart: Yes and it was super messy and dramatic and awful

73. Had your heart broken: Yes, plenty of times.

74. Been arrested: No, thank God.

75. Cried when someone died: I think if I’d been allowed to cry more when my grandma died I might have dealt with it better. But yeah, I cried.

76. Fallen for a friend: Yeah and boy howdy did that end badly.

Do you believe in …

77. Yourself: Trying, failing. Goddamn imposter complex.

78. Miracles: Yes. I mean, at this point, I have to.

79. Love at first sight: Love is a matter of time and work and really knowing someone. I think parents and newborn babies can have it though. 

80. Santa Claus: That’s an oddly complicated question. I don’t believe in the Coca-Cola mascot’s magic powers, no. 

81. Kiss on the first date: Again, if I’m at a point of dating someone, I’m probably also in deep enough to kiss them. I don’t date, though.

82. Angels: Fuck if I know.

Other

83. Current best friend’s name: Emma

84. Eye colour: Dark brown

85. Favourite movie: Labyrinth (1986)

I’m not tagging people since idk who has and hasn’t done it yet. If you wanna do it consider thyself tagged!

[batsysims]

100 QUESTIONS NO ONE ASKS

I was tagged by @tickledsims ty ily!!

1. DO YOU SLEEP WITH YOUR CLOSET DOORS OPEN OR CLOSED? CLOSED when i was younger my little sister had a baby doll that would talk on its own at night and we called it the demon baby and hooooly shit

2. DO YOU TAKE THE SHAMPOOS AND CONDITIONER BOTTLES FROM HOTELS? i dont take those bc my hair cant take cheap hair products but i do take the soaps!!

3. DO YOU SLEEP WITH YOUR SHEETS TUCKED IN OR OUT? i put the mattress cover sheet thingy on my bed but i dont use an actual sheet :/

4. HAVE YOU STOLEN A STREET SIGN BEFORE? nah lol

5. DO YOU LIKE TO USE POST-IT NOTES? YES i love using office supplies i could spend all day at staples omg

6. DO YOU CUT OUT COUPONS BUT THEN NEVER USE THEM? no lol but il save the lil receipt coupons and find them in my wallet months after they expire

7. WOULD YOU RATHER BE ATTACKED BY A BIG BEAR OR A SWARM OF BEES? hhhhh bees

8. DO YOU HAVE FRECKLES? yep!! i love them its why im scared to use foundation i dont wanna lose em

9. DO YOU ALWAYS SMILE FOR PICTURES? i either smile or if my moms takin the pic il make a stupid face 

10. WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST PET PEEVE? i have terrible road rage...... um........... i also hate it when men interrupt me i just walk away at that point 

11. DO YOU EVER COUNT YOUR STEPS WHEN YOU WALK? yeah i pretty much count everything

12. HAVE YOU PEED IN THE WOODS? i dont think so??

13. HAVE YOU EVER POOPED IN THE WOODS? def not lmao

14. DO YOU EVER DANCE EVEN IF THERES NO MUSIC PLAYING? i have an eating dance, a drinking dance, and a video game playing dance hahaa

15. DO YOU CHEW YOUR PENS AND PENCILS? yes ugh it annoys me but i cant stop

16. HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE YOU SLEPT WITH THIS WEEK? at LEAST 0

17. WHAT SIZE IS YOUR BED? i think its a single? a single or a twin either way im miserable send help

18. WHAT IS YOUR SONG OF THE WEEK? ummm probably You by Weird Milk?? its the most recent song i added on spotify so  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

19. IS IT OK FOR GUYS TO WEAR PINK? yeah def unless its one of those “real men wear pink shirts” like just.... stop

20. DO YOU STILL WATCH CARTOONS? sometimes my sister makes me watch stevens universe?? il watch phineas and ferb too bc honestly who doesnt anime too but not always cartoon ones or w/e

21. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE MOVIE? 2001: A Space Odyssey and Daughters of the Dust come to mind

22. WHERE WOULD YOU BURY HIDDEN TREASURE IF YOU HAD SOME? u kno where ;) no how big is the treasure?? if its a lil bit id put it in that drawer under the oven bc my family never uses that but if its BIG TREASURE id hide it in the backyard of the last house i lived in bc a. nobody lives there now and 2. its totally overrun with green bc of like two floods

23. WHAT DO YOU DRINK WITH DINNER? water! only water ever

24. WHAT DO YOU DIP A CHICKEN NUGGET IN? honey if theyre mcnuggets but other than that i use honey mustard!

25. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FOOD? chicky parm

26. WHAT MOVIES COULD YOU WATCH OVER AND OVER AGAIN AND STILL LOVE? honestly Inception is my feel-good movie

27. LAST PERSON, YOU KISSED/KISSED YOU? a lil babu

28. WERE YOU EVER A BOY/GIRL SCOUT? i was in girl scouts much longer than i ever wanted to be lmao WISH i coulda done BOY SCOUTS

29. WOULD YOU EVER STRIP OR POSE NUDE IN A MAGAZINE? if cash is involved absolutely

30. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU WROTE A LETTER TO SOMEONE ON PAPER? aboutttt three months ago!

31. CAN YOU CHANGE THE OIL ON A CAR? no but i can watch

32. EVER GOTTEN A SPEEDING TICKET? when i first got my license yea :( 15 yr olds are dum

33. EVER RAN OUT OF GAS? twice! very good memories

34. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE KIND OF SANDWICH? egg salad gud

35. BEST THING TO EAT FOR BREAKFAST? the all star breakfast at waffle house yasssss

36. WHAT IS YOUR USUAL BEDTIME? honestly like 9 since i always have to wake up at 7 in the am but il stay up til 11 if i can

37. ARE YOU LAZY? absolutely when have ACTIVE ppl done ANYTHING

38. WHEN YOU WERE A KID, WHAT DID YOU DRESS UP AS FOR HALLOWEEN? i was usually a cat bc i never could find a costume i liked smh but when i was 2 i went as winnie the pooh lmao

39. WHAT IS YOUR CHINESE ASTROLOGICAL SIGN? ox!

40. HOW MANY LANGUAGES CAN YOU SPEAK? just english but im tryna learn spanish and japanese and im fluent in french if a two year olds speech patterns can be considered as such

41. DO YOU HAVE ANY MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS? nah

42. WHICH ARE BETTER: LEGOS OR LINCOLN LOGS? LEGOS lincoln logs are big with nostalgia thoooo

43. ARE YOU STUBBORN? with dumb shit yeah but i usually just dont care enough abt stuff to deal

44. WHO IS BETTER: LENO OR LETTERMAN? theyre both old idc

45. EVER WATCH SOAP OPERAS? no lol

46. ARE YOU AFRAID OF HEIGHTS? not really tbh i like the adrenaline

47. DO YOU SING IN THE CAR? if im alone!! nobody deserves to hear that

48. DO YOU SING IN THE SHOWER? nahhh

49. DO YOU DANCE IN THE CAR? when im in the drive thru haaaa

50. EVER USED A GUN? id like to go to a shooting range some time but ive never used one im also very anti gun so i probs would never buy one unless it was a cute lil glock i can handle well

51. LAST TIME YOU GOT A PORTRAIT TAKEN BY A PHOTOGRAPHER? st patricks day it wasnt technically for me tho

52. DO YOU THINK MUSICALS ARE CHEESY? not in general but when ppl start obsessing over a certain one for months on end abt a certain time period and certain performers and certain songs and certain people of history i start wanting ppl to die

53. IS CHRISTMAS STRESSFUL? YEAH I NEVER HAVE MONEY WTF

54. EVER EAT A PIEROGI? my sisters obsessed with them so yea but never like. authentic polish potato pockets or anything just a frozen box of em

55. FAVORITE TYPE OF FRUIT PIE? apple?? im not rly into pie tbh

56. OCCUPATIONS YOU WANTED TO BE WHEN YOU WERE A KID? ive wanted to go into law enforcement/criminology my whole life!! for a sec i wanted to be a firefighter, a journalist/writer/poet, and some sort of artist but u know how kids are

57. DO YOU BELIEVE IN GHOSTS? i tried to find that clip from malcolm in the middle for like ten mins but i couldnt yea

58. EVER HAVE A DEJA-VU FEELING? doesnt everyone tho?

59. DO YOU TAKE A VITAMIN DAILY? no im a bad adult

60. DO YOU WEAR SLIPPERS? nah

61. DO YOU WEAR A BATH ROBE? im not rich!!

62. WHAT DO YOU WEAR TO BED? usually just my undies but when im living with other people il wear a soft shirt and my dc heroes pajama bottoms ayyy

63. WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CONCERT? ive never been to one! i was gonna go see metallica in baltimore but i moved before i could smh

64. WALMART, TARGET, OR KMART? walmart sry targets cool but too much money!!! i go there for home things tho does kmart still exist

65. NIKE OR ADIDAS? ADIDAS ive been trying to get a full adidas tracksuit for YEARS

66. CHEETOS OR FRITOS? fritos! i like the super hot cheetos tho

67. PEANUTS OR SUNFLOWER SEEDS? peanutsssss

68. EVER HEAR OF THE GROUP TRES BIEN? Nope but they must be good im keepin @tickledsims response bc it made me laugh

69. EVER TAKE DANCE LESSONS? when i was a lil babu i took ballet and gymnastics a lil later

70. IS THERE A PROFESSION YOU PICTURE YOUR FUTURE SPOUSE DOING? i hope to never have a spouse  ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

71. CAN YOU CURL YOUR TONGUE? yep

72. EVER WON A SPELLING BEE? ive actually never even had a spelling bee im sure theyre a myth

73. HAVE YOU EVER CRIED BECAUSE YOU WERE SO HAPPY? i think so??

74. OWN ANY RECORD ALBUMS? nah

75. OWN A RECORD PLAYER? nahhhhh

76. DO YOU REGULARLY BURN INCENSE? no but i had a roommate who did i fell in love

77. EVER BEEN IN LOVE? yeah ok lol so one time when i was a sophomore my french teacher had to use a substitute teacher and hes the reason i believe in love at first sight im STILL in love with him wtf ive also had a bf haha im hilarious

78. WHO WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE IN CONCERT? i dont really do concerts so i couldnt say but i think matd would be fun!!

79. WHAT WAS THE LAST CONCERT YOU SAW? oh my god

80. HOT TEA OR COLD TEA? hot!!!!

81. TEA OR COFFEE? coffee!!!!!!

82. SUGAR COOKIES OR SNICKERDOODLES? i dont rly like either but i prefer snickerdoodles over sugar

83. CAN YOU SWIM WELL? i can only do that weird frog swim i forget what its called so no im shit at it

84. CAN YOU HOLD YOUR BREATH WITHOUT HOLDING YOUR NOSE? ye

85. ARE YOU PATIENT? if im able to distract myself?? it also depends on the severity of what im waiting on i guess

86. DJ OR BAND AT A WEDDING? probs a band i guess i dont rly think abt that kinda stuff sry

87. EVER WON A CONTEST? when i was four i won a coloring contest at the ice cream store

88. HAVE YOU EVER HAD PLASTIC SURGERY? nope im poor 89. WHICH ARE BETTER: BLACK OR GREEN OLIVES? both are good!

90. CAN YOU KNIT OR CROCHET? i can knit but i cant crochet

91. BEST ROOM FOR A FIREPLACE? fckn bathroom

92. DO YOU WANT TO GET MARRIED? not rly unless its a partnership longlasting romance stresses me out especially with financial responsibility etc

93. IF MARRIED, HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MARRIED? -20 years

94. WHO WAS YOUR HIGH SCHOOL CRUSH? my high school boyfriend hahaaa h,,,,

95. DO YOU CRY AND THROW A FIT UNTIL YOU GET YOUR OWN WAY? im an adult sry

96. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? 1!

97. DO YOU WANT KIDS? nope! lmao i love her tho

98. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR? red but i also like many others??? idk

99. DO YOU MISS ANYONE RIGHT NOW? ummm not rly?? im not close enough to anyone to miss them and those i am close to im able to hang with

100. WHO ARE YOU GOING TO TAG TO DO THIS TAG NEXT? god uhhh if you havent done it already and want to, @dreambot @nebula-simms @ellowynsims and @pixelbloom

[metroidspeedrun]

ALL THE UNUSUAL ASKS. (alternatively, every prime number)

1. Spotify, SoundCloud, or Pandora? Definitely Spotify2. is your room messy or clean? Atm it is clean but it'll eventually be a huge mess again3. what color are your eyes? Brown, very dark brown4. do you like your name? why? I kind of picked it for myself but sometimes I don't like it. Other times I'd rather not5. what is your relationship status? SINGLE7. describe your personality in 3 words or less Antsy, emotional, empathetic8. what color hair do you have? Dark brown but sometimes in the summer it gets a reddish tint9. what kind of car do you drive? color? I don't drive10. where do you shop? Online on SheIn. Their clothes are always really cheap and comfy11. how would you describe your style? Unpredictable, eclectic maybe12. favorite social media account Tumblr13. what size bed do you have? Queen, but I'm eventually gonna get a daybed to have more space in my room14. any siblings? 10; 6 boys 4 girls15. if you can live anywhere in the world where would it be? why? I'm not sure yet, like I really haven't been anywhere16. favorite snapchat filter? My face doesn't register on snapchat17. favorite makeup brand(s) Nyx, hands down18. how many times a week do you shower? Anywhere between 7-1219. favorite tv show? Andi Mack and Gotham20. shoe size? 8.5 US shoe size21. how tall are you? 5'3 22. sandals or sneakers? Sneakers23. do you go to the gym? Nope, but I walk about 6-10 miles a week24. describe your dream date Cheese pizza, action movie, nap, crafts25. how much money do you have in your wallet at the moment? I don't have any cash on me ever but I have $2.73 in the bank atm26. what color socks are you wearing? Mustard yellow27. how many pillows do you sleep with? 328. do you have a job? what do you do? I do, I'm a nanny 29. how many friends do you have? This is always a hard question bc I never know who to count so I'll j say around 5-1230. whats the worst thing you have ever done? I said a lot of terrible things as a child to other kids out of anger and they weren't even relevant to what they did and they never should have been said.31. whats your favorite candle scent? Coffee32. 3 favorite boy names Micah, Uriah, & Walter33. 3 favorite girl names Imogen, Micah, & Arielle34. favorite actor? Um atm John Boyega bc he was the first name that came to mind35. favorite actress? Definitely Carey Mulligan36. who is your celebrity crush? Also Carey Mulligan37. favorite movie? Hacksaw Ridge 38. do you read a lot? whats your favorite book? Not as much as I did when I was younger. Ummmm... Atm I've regained my love for Treasure Island after seeing something about pirates the other day39. money or brains? Like attraction-wise or for myself??? I have to say brains for attraction and money for myself bc I'm really not that smart anyways.40. do you have a nickname? what is it? I have a couple. Bean, Grandma, Chocolate Daddy -I can explain but I can't explain-41. how many times have you been to the hospital? 4 times in my life I think? 3/4 times were about my back and the last time I thought I had tb but I don't so that's good42. top 10 favorite songs Fuck ok um this changes like every 30 minutes but atm and not in this order1) My Flame by Bobby Caldwell 2) Black Hole Sun by Soundgarden3) Bulletproof Heart by MCR4) Before He Cheats by Carrie Underwood5) Sleepover by Hayley Kiyoko6) Chunky by Bruno Mars7) Hallelujah by P!ATD8) Lights Out by Angel Olsen9) Carmen by Lana del Rey10) Hit Em Up by Tupac43. do you take any medications daily? I've never taken any sort of medication 44. what is your skin type? (oily, dry, etc) Oily ig idk a lot about skin45. what is your biggest fear? Living my whole life being empty without something that can fill it constantly46. how many kids do you want? Anywhere between 2 & 947. whats your go to hair style? Right now just short with like one or two fake flowers stuck in it48. what type of house do you live in? (big, small, etc) Small, 3 bedroom49. who is your role model? I don't really have one lol50. what was the last compliment you received? "I like your tights"51. what was the last text you sent? "No problem" 52. how old were you when you found out santa wasn’t real? Never believed in Santa53. what is your dream car? Station wagon 54. opinion on smoking? Cigs are disgusting, I stopped smoking weed bc it only made me dissociate more than I should, but I don't mind people smoking around me 55. do you go to college? Yup, but idk if I'm gonna be on academic probation or not p soon fingers crossed that I won't56. what is your dream job? Social work57. would you rather live in rural areas or the suburbs? Rural tbh. It'd give me more space to walk and talk to myself in private58. do you take shampoo and conditioner bottles from hotels? No, bc my hair is weird and only takes certain kinds of conditioner and shampoos59. do you have freckles? I sure do have freckles 60. do you smile for pictures? Only when I'm sad or wearing lipstick61. how many pictures do you have on your phone? Hella like idk how many bc it doesn't say but so many62. have you ever peed in the woods? Never been in the woods63. do you still watch cartoons? Oh hell yeah most definitely64. do you prefer chicken nuggets from Wendy’s or McDonalds? I don't eat meat anymore lol65. Favorite dipping sauce? Salsa or hummus66. what do you wear to bed? Sweatpants and a t-shirt67. have you ever won a spelling bee? 6th place bc 3 teachers mispronounced scrimmage68. what are your hobbies? Cooking, making playlists, making headbands, and walking69. can you draw? I get bursts of talent but most times no, not at all. I'm terrible70. do you play an instrument? I can play 2 songs on a children's xylophone71. what was the last concert you saw? Never been to a concert72. tea or coffee? Tea, coffee is gross73. Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts? Starbucks 74. do you want to get married? Not really no, like don't get me wrong I'm a romantic but I'm not the easiest person to live with75. what is your crush’s first and last initial? M.H.76. are you going to change your last name when you get married? Nah, but I wanna change my last name to my grandma's maiden name.77. what color looks best on you? Yellow78. do you miss anyone right now? Yeah79. do you sleep with your door open or closed? Open80. do you believe in ghosts? Nope81. what is your biggest pet peeve? Not covering your face when you sneeze &/or cough82. last person you called My mom83. favorite ice cream flavor? Strawberry 84. regular oreos or golden oreos? Neither, golden ones are j gross and the regular ones make me tired85. chocolate or rainbow sprinkles? Rainbow86. what shirt are you wearing? Purple men's tee from F2187. what is your phone background? Different color roses88. are you outgoing or shy? Shy, painfully shy89. do you like it when people play with your hair? Yes, I like to be touched in general but it depends on how close I am to the person/people90. do you like your neighbors? I don't ever see them 91. do you wash your face? at night? in the morning? Neither, I only wash my face like 5-18 times a year92. have you ever been high? Quite a few times93. have you ever been drunk? Twice94. last thing you ate? Half a pizza95. favorite lyrics right now "You wanna be friends forever/ I can think of something better"96. summer or winter? Winter, I am currently dying in this heat in the house97. day or night? Night98. dark, milk, or white chocolate? Dark chocolate99. favorite month? October100. what is your zodiac sign Sun in Leo101. who was the last person you cried in front of? Maddie, but I was really drunk

[naresnyanart]

92 truths tag

Rules: Write 92 truths about yourself then tag 25 people

tagged by @minsugajangjangmanboongboong GIRL I DONT EVEN KNOW 25 PEOPLE WHAT

LAST…

[1] drink: waterrrrrrr

[2] phone call: actually my mother

[3] text message: my best childhood friend human

[4] song you listened to: Hobgoblin - CLC

[5] time you cried: Sunday

HAVE YOU EVER…

[6] dated someone twice: nup

[7] been cheated on: not that i know

[8] kissed someone and regretted it: definetely

[9] lost someone special: haven’t we all?

[10] been depressed: sure

[11] gotten drunk and thrown up: not yet and i am not planning to do so in the future

LIST 3 FAVORITE COLORS:

[12] black

[13] mint

[14] ivory

IN THE LAST YEAR HAVE YOU…

[15] made new friends: gimme the definition of friends but yeah i think so

[16] fallen out of love: haha thank god yes

[17] laughed until you cried: every week

[18] found out someone was talking about you: nope

[19] met someone who changed you: mm i dont think so

[20] found out who your true friends are: mnah i hope i already know it

[21] kissed someone on your facebook list: pft no

GENERAL…

[22] how many of your facebook friends do you know in real life: 80%

[23] do you have any pets: they all died ;_;

[24] do you want to change your name: it fits into the space thats given for my Pokemon character so its fine

[25] what did you do for your last birthday: my family came over as a surprise and we drove kart ate chinese food and i got a really awesome cake... gosh there was so much cake

[26] what time did you wake up: 9:56 AM

[27] what were you doing at midnight last night: played Guild Wars 2

[28] name something you cannot wait for: going to south korea

[29] when was the last time you saw your mother: 20 minutes ago

[30] what is one thing you wish you could change about your life: sstudying properly and not wasting so much time on procrastinating

[31] what are you listening to right now: Begin - BTS

[32] have you ever talked to a person named tom: i dont even know one

[33] something that is getting on your nerves: its too warm in this room

[34] most visited website: tumblr & AO3

[35] elementary: finisheddddd everyone who hasn’t: GET AWAY FROM TUMBLR. NOW.

[36] high school: finishing this june :3

[37] college: will maybe go there in a year :3

[38] hair color: once black but the sun bleached it so now its super dark brown

[39] long or short hair: really long

[40] do you have a crush on someone: nah i just have a cuddle-crush on all my friends

[41] what do you like about yourself: uhm i guess i can be a nice human and i like studying except when its for a classtest

[42] piercings: 5mm tunnel left ear and two piercings right ear (planning on getting an industrial or two helix on the left side soon)

[43]blood type: lmao i dont know i think its 0?

[44] nickname: Reb, Paddel, Nada

[45] relationship status: single thank fuck

[46] zodiac sign: fishyyyyy

[47] pronouns: she/her

[48] fav tv show: i dont rlly watch Tv but i loved The first two seasons of the100 and i liked the Flash

[49] tattoos: planning a stick n’ poke one on my ankle

[50] right or left hand: Righttttt

FIRST…

[51] surgery: none

[52] piercing: 9 in my ears but they didnt heal well and then i got em aggain with 12 or 13 i think

[53] best friend: a guy with the same birthday as I, just a year older, we were best friends from the beginning of my life on, and then we had like 10 years no contact and now we are buddies againnnnnnn

[54] sport: swimming but i hate sport

[55] vacation: uhm. visitng a friend of my mom in spain for a week

[56] pair of trainers: some cheap shit from a shoe store i have no idea why is this important

RIGHT NOW…

[57] eating: nothing ._. i want strawberries tho

[58] drinking: water

[59] i’m about to: study korean and paintttt

[60] listening to: you asked that already but now it is Bros B4 Hoes by Neffex

[61] waiting for: this post to end BUT I AM JUST AT 61 ARGH

[62] want: chocolate (anabel why are we so similar lmao)

[63] get married: NEVER. ( totally agree to you dear)

[64] career: poor student and working in a hotel as a maid, planning on going into interactive media desing after studying

WHICH IS BETTER…

[65] hugs or kisses: hugs

[66] lips or eyes: eyes

[67] shorter or taller: taller bcuz i am too tall already

[68] older or younger: older/same

[70] nice arms or nice stomach: stomach (but not abs, i just wanna cuddle)

[71] sensitive or loud: loud with a sensitive spot

[72] hook up or relationship: nothing from both, cuddle-relationship

[73] troublemaker or hesitant: not too sure tho but i guess more hesitant and weird

HAVE YOU EVER…

[74] kissed a stranger? nop

[75] drank hard liquor? yess

[76] lost glasses/contact lenses? dont have them

[77] turned someone down: cant remember but i think yes

[78] sex on first date? PAh as if wtf

[79] broken someone’s heart? i suppose (i felt super sorry buit now i am glad i did so)

[80] had your own heart broken? pft no

[81] been arrested? nup

[82] cried when someone died? ..sure i may be cold but i am no monster

[83] fallen for a friend? ... friendzoned 3 years

DO YOU BELIEVE IN…

[84] yourself? i guess sometimes must most times not really

[85] miracles? i believe in god, so, yes.

[86] love at first sight? noop

[87] Santa Claus? o-o no

[88] kiss on the first date? whats a date

[89] angels? yep

OTHER…

[90] current best friend’s name: i call her Katzi (german cute version of Cat)

[91] eye color: so brown my friends sometimes struggle to find the pupil

[92] favorite movie: Ghibli movies and the Lego Batman Movie

I tag (i am sorry already dear sorryyy): @dafucl @yoongiboon @eruzayne @bouahrt  @softspringday

[foreheadface]

1.     Spotify, SoundCloud, or Pandora?

Spotify~

2.     is your room messy or clean?

Somewhere in between

3.     what color are your eyes?

Dark brown

4.     do you like your name? why?

I do~ I especially like that it’s longer than everyone else’s~ I’ve only met one person w/ the name Anastacia and it was spelled with ‘sia’ not ‘cia,’ it’s pretty unique~

5.     what is your relationship status?

Happily taken~

6.     describe your personality in 3 words or less

anxious, loud, geeky

7.     what color hair do you have?

Dark brown

8.     what kind of car do you drive? color? 

 I can’t drive. I am a legally blind individual. That question is kinda ablest…    assuming everyone drives...

 9.     where do you shop? 

           Everywhere if I can~

 10. how would you describe your style?

Cheap, geeky, stylish

 11. favorite social media account 

most definitely tumblr

 12. what size bed do you have?

Full sized.

 13. any siblings? 

One brother~

 14. if you can live anywhere in the world where would it be? why?

Hmmmm… harder questions… with you if I can help it~

 15. favorite snapchat filter?

The weird queen of hearts one…  

 16. favorite makeup brand(s) 

Trust Fund Beauty, Pixi, or NYX cos its cheap

 17. how many times a week do you shower?

….?? Everyday…?

 18. favorite tv show?

I love so many, it’s hard for me to decide on a favorite one…

 19. shoe size?

7

 20. how tall are you? 

5 foot 3

 21. sandals or sneakers?

Sandals if I can help it~

 22. do you go to the gym?

 No even though my keeps telling me to…

 23. describe your dream date

being with the person I love… doing anything, really~

 24. how much money do you have in your wallet at the moment?

I don’t carry cash

 25. what color socks are you wearing?

Not wearing socks.

 26. how many pillows do you sleep with?

Too many but I feel weird if I have less than 4.

 27. do you have a job? what do you do?

Uhhhh I’m a Pokemon Mastter??? Champion of the Unova region, two times  over????

 28. how many friends do you have?

 A few I would consider as such

 29. whats the worst thing you have ever done?

I didn’t tell my mom I had a “lump” under my arm because I thought it was a       comically large cist and it ended up being a raised lymphnode, signifying my   cancerous blood….  I waited like 2 weeks to tell her. whoops

30. what’s your favorite candle scents?

 Coffee cake~

 31. 3 favorite boy names

…. Uhhhhh Darren, Joey, and Joe idek i’m starkid trash

 32. 3 favorite girl names

Alice, Euphemia, and Arbor

 33. favorite actor?

Woody Harrelson. Just… I just… I love him.

 34. favorite actress?

Shailene Woodley

 35. who is your celebrity crush?

Shailene Woodley... 

 36. favorite movie?

A tie between “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” and “See You in Valhalla”

 37. do you read a lot? whats your favorite book?

Moderately now that I have things to do… Anansi Boys or Stardust, both authored by the glorious Neil Gaiman.

 38. money or brains?

Brains

 39. do you have a nickname? what is it?

My family calls me Stacy Beth which is a combination of ‘Anastacia’ and ‘Elizabeth,’ the latter of which being my middle name. but like, if you’ll notice, those three names have the same amount of letters??? so i don’t really see how it’s a nickname???

 40. how many times have you been to the hospital?

Depends on if you mean the hospital in general or the emergency room? Either way, I’ve lost count.

 41. top 10 favorite songs

            1. This is Gospel by Panic! At the Disco

           2. Camisado by Panic! At the Disco!

           3. The Judge by T.O.P.

           4. The Love Club by Lorde

           5. One Day More from Les Mis

           6.  Satisfied from Hamilton

           7. Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd

           8. Losing Touch by the Killers

           9. Status Quo from Starship

           10. Breathe by Pink Floyd

 42. do you take any medications daily?

I used to take like 20 pills a day but now I just have to take multivitamins and a low-dose aspirin for my heart~ my anxiety meds are as needed.

43. what is your skin type? (oily, dry, etc)

uhhhhh oily ish and rlly zitty

 44. what is your biggest fear?

Getting cancer again.

 45. how many kids do you want?

 I don’t really think about it. Mostly because I know so many people my age with kids and I just... I wanna live my life first...? Is that selfish? I suppose I might want them in the future if my future spouse does too… but if I ever have kids, I’m going to adopt.

46. what’s your go to hair style?

Brush it and go

 47. what type of house do you live in? (big, small, etc)

big-ish? 3-bedrooms and it’s a split-level. So three-ish floors, the top level is where the bedrooms are~

 48. who is your role model?

Colbie Smoulders

 49. what was the last compliment you received?

…. Uhhhhh… I can’t remember…?

 50. what was the last text you sent?

"okay~ :D i’ll be here~”

 51. how old were you when you found out santa wasn’t real?

8. and I immediately told my 6 yr old brother.

 52. what is your dream car?

 /sigh Again with the Ablism?

 53. opinion on smoking?

Causes cancer. That’s not an opinion, that’s fact.  You do not want cancer. Trust me.

and also, theres this strange hipster dude in my speech class who always. smells. of cigarettes. it’s kind of disgusting.

D: he sits right next to me but it’s a full class so I can’t just move

54. do you go to college?

 yaaasss

 55. what is your dream job?

 I want to be an attorney

 56. would you rather live in rural areas or the suburbs?

 Uhhhh neither. I want to live in the city.

 57. do you take shampoo and conditioner bottles from hotels?

 Uh yeah its free.

 58. do you have freckles?

 No

59. do you smile for pictures?

 Yes.

 60. how many pictures do you have on your phone?

 Too many

 61. have you ever peed in the woods?

 I live in the southern us, so uh.... Yeah..

 62. do you still watch cartoons?

 Of course.

 63. do you prefer chicken nuggets from Wendy’s or McDonalds?

 I don’t go to wendy’s ever so the second one.

 64. Favorite dipping sauce?

 Ranch or cocktail sauce

 65. what do you wear to bed?

 A big t shirt, sometimes with shorts or pj pants

 66. have you ever won a spelling bee?

Yes and i’m not ashamed of it.

 67. what are your hobbies?

 Drawing and writing trash 

 68. can you draw?

 See above

 69. do you play an instrument?

 Not that talented..

 70. what was the last concert you saw?

 TWENTY ONE PILOTSSS!!! T.O.P.!!!

71. tea or coffee?

 Coffee

 72. Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts?

 Starbucks

 73. do you want to get married? 

maaaaaaybe... If its with the right person~

 74. what is your crush’s first and last initial?

L. B.

 75. are you going to change your last name when you get married?

 No, srry Lindsay and heres why. Nothing fits with the first and middle names “Anastacia Elizabeth.” Nothing sounds right to me. Except for my last name. And besides, my name is who I am. I like my full name, a lot.. So uhhh… I don’t think so. 

Or we’d at least hyphenate.

 76. what color looks best on you?

I don’t know…. I’ve heard that red is my color a lot…

 77. do you miss anyone right now?

You know who I always miss~

 78. do you sleep with your door open or closed?

Closed

 79. do you believe in ghosts?

Of course- obviously.

 80. what is your biggest pet peeve?

I have too many to count…  

 81. last person you called`

@hot-for-justice

 82. favorite ice cream flavor?

Caramel Praline

 83. regular oreos or golden oreos?

Regular

 84. chocolate or rainbow sprinkles?

Rainbow~

 85. what shirt are you wearing?

A purple hi-lo tank top with lighter purple beachy flower on it~

 86. what is your phone background?

The WAA staff

 87. are you outgoing or shy?

Outgoing when I want/have to be.

 88. do you like it when people play with your hair?

not random ppl but like, lets you and me get together and i don’t know, you can play with my hair~ ;D 

 *cough*

89. do you like your neighbors? 

I did but they moved/died now, the houses around us are either rental or empty…

 90. do you wash your face? at night? in the morning? 

Both

 91. have you ever been high?

LOL WELL

 92. have you ever been drunk?

I honestly don’t think so.

 93. last thing you ate?

Chips/dip

 94. favorite lyrics right now

95. summer or winter?

summer

96. day or night?

the magic hours. 

97. dark, milk, or white chocolate?

dark chocolate.

98. favorite month?

September or October

99. what is your zodiac sign

cancer. LOL

100. who was the last person you cried in front of?

uhhhh.... I try not to cry anyways...I honestly have no idea... I think the last time I cried, I was alone so

[halcyontheroad]

Vanlife: 100 days on the road

The past 3 months have simply flown by. I can honestly say that I am happy, excited and hopeful with the way things have gone so far. There have been no major setbacks, unexpected circumstances, unpleasant encounters, etc. over the course of 5,000 miles living and traveling around the Southeastern part of the country. Every day is my own, and the possibilities are entirely up to me. I have chosen to stay in some locations longer and leave some places sooner. I have explored tons of new scenery and attractions, sampled some amazing food, met some generous and interesting new people; all of which will end up having a special place in my memories of this journey. What more could you ask for when living this lifestyle?

I would go as far as to say things are getting easy. With a little bit of planning and routine, new places are no longer intimidating, and my adventure quickly becomes optimized no matter where I end up. I make sure to cover my bases including a place to park/sleep, a place to shower, local attractions and resources, and how to stay connected with Wifi. I am slowly working on breaking out of my introverted state of mind with the intention of talking to more strangers and openly sharing my story. Almost every person I have encounter seems genuinely interested (possibly even jealous) of my situation, rather than confused or skeptical. 

A Typical Day

Wake up; find a bathroom (hopefully within walking distance); brush my teeth; change into clothes.

If I’m working, I will find the nearest place with reliable Wifi, and typically grab breakfast there before staying and working until around noon. 

If I’m not working; I’ll make a light breakfast such as granola, a bagel or fried eggs. 

If the weather is decent, I will try to find a nice park or place to walk around and hike for a few hours. Otherwise, I may walk around a town or hop on public transportation to get around and do my exploring for the day.

Head back to the van to make a cheap lunch such as tuna, turkey sandwich, hummus and chips, PBJ, etc.

Find a gym to shower at in the afternoon or evening, after I’m finished getting sweaty/dirty and generally while the gyms aren’t crowded yet.

Start thinking about where the nearest 24/7 Walmart is that allows overnight parking, if it’s in a decent area, and doesn’t require me to backtrack or drive a long distance. If Walmart isn’t and option, I start to look into residential areas where I might be able to park legally and blend in overnight without causing any concern. If this isn’t an option either, there are some other tricks such as Cracker Barrels, Truck Stops, Casinos, Hotels, or possibly paying for a cheap campsite at a park. 

Check out some last minute attractions, take another walk, or find a happy hour somewhere for drink and food deals. 

Use Google maps or recommendations that I’ve noted from other people to find a good place to get dinner.

Hang out at a mall, coffee shop, bookstore, etc. with Wifi so I can catch up on research/planning, blogs, news, TV shows, etc.

Return to the van and generally find my spot to park for the night. I may hang out for a bit, use Wifi or walk somewhere close by to hangout.  

Use the restroom one more time (if available); pull out the bed; close the curtains and cover windows; brush my teeth; clean up; change my clothes; go to sleep.

The Perks

Freedom to extend or reduce the amount of time I spend at any given location based on what I’m experiencing. Additionally, for the most part, being able to re-adjust or change my route at any time.

Working less than 12 hours/week on average, and having most of my days completely free to do what I want.

Spending my Winter on beaches, in parks, and out in 60-80° weather.

Meeting new people and being generally surprised by the kindness of strangers (and now friends).

The satisfaction of living in something that I built myself which has met all my needs and matches my lifestyle perfectly.

I have spent less than $100 on lodging/camping/parking living out of the van for in over 3 months.

Living intentionally, with every day being different, and anticipating the excitement of the inevitable road ahead.

The Challenges

Constantly trying to determine the best route to take between points of interest to reduce my travel times/gas usage and maximize my free time. 

Learning to enjoy 90% of my activities "alone”.

Finding quiet, safe and convenient places to park and sleep every night.

Soon I’ll be making my way Southwest into areas of the country I have never explored before in my life. The cities and sights are fewer and farther apart, which means my routines may change and I may be out of my comfort zone again until I can figure out my plan attack for visiting and thriving in new places. I will stick to my Vandweller’s Checklist for now, and hopefully add some insight and knowledge after my experience in the Western part of the country.

My 30th birthday is approaching fast and I feel like I am right where I want to be; just as I had planned. My heart is full and my head is held high. There is so much left to see in this incredible country and I only hope that things continue go as planned through the rest of this amazing experience.

Questions, concerns or comments?  PLEASE feel free to Ask or Message me and I will try to get back to you all ASAP. Thank you for following along, and stay tuned!

[alrightpoppins]

all of them i dare u

umm… okay well here i go. i swear i’m not interesting enough for this.

1. Spotify, SoundCloud, or Pandora? 

Spotify

2. is your room messy or clean?

pretty clean. my side is at least.

3. what color are your eyes?

hazel

4. do you like your name? why?

sometimes i do, sometimes i don’t. i like it bc it’s different but sometimes i don’t bc it doesn’t roll off the tongue very well. sounds awkward to me.

5. what is your relationship status?

single as a pringle. and by that i mean complicated bc i have lots of other pringles around me and one who keeps stringing me along lmao it’s fine.

6. describe your personality in 3 words or less

altruistic, sarcastic, introverted

7. what color hair do you have?

brown. blue and green underneath… the green was an accident.

8. what kind of car do you drive? color?

2003 mitsubishi eclipse. it’s silver. 

9. where do you shop?

uhhh walmart.. target or kohls if i’m feeling fancy?

10. how would you describe your style?

nonexistent. also gay.

11. favorite social media account

probably this one bc i’m pathetic.

12. what size bed do you have?

 twin

13. any siblings?

no but 3 little cousins who live with me so kind of.

14. if you can live anywhere in the world where would it be? why?

nyc bc i’m basic. or toronto. or maybe ireland.

15. favorite snapchat filter?

 idek i just play with them all.

16. favorite makeup brand(s)

i.. makeup? elf is cheap so.. yeah?

17. how many times a week do you shower?

7

18. favorite tv show?

LOL

19. shoe size?

7

20. how tall are you?

…5′1 (155 cm i think?)

21. sandals or sneakers?

combat boots.

22. do you go to the gym?

no i want to though

23. describe your dream date

existent.

24. how much money do you have in your wallet at the moment?

umm like $100? plus my card.

25. what color socks are you wearing?

grey and they’re long and soft and i love them.

26. how many pillows do you sleep with?

6 plus throws and stuffed animals.

27. do you have a job? what do you do?

not really, i babysit sometimes.

28. how many friends do you have?

uhh a few. home friends, school friends, online friends. i have 3 best friends.

29. whats the worst thing you have ever done?

beat up my little cousin. i was like 14 and he was like 6 it was fucked up.

30. whats your favorite candle scent?

the one that smells like fresh sheets.

31. 3 favorite boy names

Anthony, Wyatt, and Caleb

32. 3 favorite girl names

Elodie, Carter, and Georgie (Georgiana)

33. favorite actor?

… i literally don’t even know. i guess i could say The Rock bc he’s rad?

34. favorite actress?

Dianna Agron

35. who is your celebrity crush?

Dianna Agron. also Katie McGrath and Chyler Leigh.

36. favorite movie?

The Wizard of Oz

37. do you read a lot? whats your favorite book?

i don’t read as much as i used to. but my favorite s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. do you sense a trend here?

38. money or brains?

brains

39. do you have a nickname? what is it?

a few. most people call me Tab. my family (mostly my cousins) calls me Tabby. Nicole occasionally brings Tigger/Tig back. my mom calls me Bear… i have a lot.

40. how many times have you been to the hospital?

too fucking many.

41. top 10 favorite songs

oh boy.. (not in order)

The Devil in My Bloodstream by The Wonder Years; Knuckles by Moose Blood; To and Fro by Thomston; Cigarettes and Saints by The Wonder Years; Gum by Moose Blood; BOTL by Quinn Lewis; Disdain by Knuckle Puck; Mess by Real Friends; Somebody Else covered by Alice Kristiansen; Space by Ally Hills

42. do you take any medications daily?

no

43. what is your skin type? (oily, dry, etc)

oily i guess.

44. what is your biggest fear?

being buried alive or being awake but paralyzed. 

45. how many kids do you want?

idk like 3

46. whats your go to hair style?

if i ever actually do something to my hair i just straighten it.

47. what type of house do you live in? (big, small, etc)

small as fuck. 

48. who is your role model?

my grandma.

49. what was the last compliment you received?

yesterday i got a letter from my professor with really good feedback from my child study observation report. she said i was really observant and that i wrote a really great paper.

50. what was the last text you sent?

umm my turn on battleship to nicole.

51. how old were you when you found out santa wasn’t real?

i didn’t tell my mom until i was 11 or 12. i kinda realized it when i was like 9 or 10 though… i refused to accept it.

52. what is your dream car?

1962 cadillac coupe deville.

53. opinion on smoking?

disgusting. i do it sometimes though.

54. do you go to college?

yeah i’m about to start my 2nd semester of my sophomore year.

55. what is your dream job?

i would love to be able to just write.

56. would you rather live in rural areas or the suburbs?

suburbs i guess.

57. do you take shampoo and conditioner bottles from hotels?

sometimes. i did in disney and i still have it bc of the mickey ears.

58. do you have freckles?

no.

59. do you smile for pictures?

usually. but i don’t usually show my teeth.

60. how many pictures do you have on your phone?

like 1200.

61. have you ever peed in the woods?

no.

62. do you still watch cartoons?

cartoons are awesome.

63. do you prefer chicken nuggets from Wendy’s or McDonalds?

wendy’s for quality, mcdonald’s for nostalgia.

64. Favorite dipping sauce?

for… chicken nuggets? this question was poorly placed.

65. what do you wear to bed?

depends. if i’m alone, a tshirt and underwear. if not, a tshirt and shorts. leggings if i wanna get ready faster the next morning.

66. have you ever won a spelling bee?

i don’t think my school even did spelling bees.

67. what are your hobbies?

is netflix a hobby?

68. can you draw?

if i’m in the mood to. 

69. do you play an instrument?

no i wish.

70. what was the last concert you saw?

the wonder years (who’s surprised? no one? hm, odd).

71. tea or coffee?

tea.

72. Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts?

dunkin. but like… wawa.

73. do you want to get married?

meh. we’ll see.

74. what is your crush’s first and last initial?

JL

75. are you going to change your last name when you get married?

probably. i don’t like my last name.

76. what color looks best on you?

black?

77. do you miss anyone right now?

yep.

78. do you sleep with your door open or closed?

closed.

79. do you believe in ghosts?

yeah.

80. what is your biggest pet peeve?

when people one word me/don’t put in effort to a conversation. also when people put the toilet paper on top of the holder instead of taking literally 3 seconds to undo the old roll and put the new one on like wtf.

81. last person you called

my mom.

82. favorite ice cream flavor?

depends on the day. currently mint chocolate chip.

83. regular oreos or golden oreos?

golden oreos.

84. chocolate or rainbow sprinkles?

depends on the ice cream.

85. what shirt are you wearing?

a black tank top and a knit sweater.

86. what is your phone background?

a picture of the wonder years performing warped tour with Cigarettes and Saints lyrics. i keep meaning to change it though bc Audi made me a kick ass Katie McGrath background.

87. are you outgoing or shy?

shy as fuck.

88. do you like it when people play with your hair?

my god yes it’s the best.

89. do you like your neighbors?

…i don’t think i’ve ever spoken to them?

90. do you wash your face? at night? in the morning?

usually i wash it or rinse it in the morning and i use a makeup wipe and rinse it at night. 

91. have you ever been high?

no.

92. have you ever been drunk?

yeah that’s new. fun stuff.

93. last thing you ate?

a dove chocolate.

94. favorite lyrics right now

i heard the voices and implications. telling me who i could never be.

last year I was a train wreck, now I’m just a mess.

the thought of you is so loud

you were my love, you wanted this. i gave it all but you took what you did.

95. summer or winter?

winter.

96. day or night?

night.

97. dark, milk, or white chocolate?

milk.

98. favorite month?

october.

99. what is your zodiac sign

virgo.

100. who was the last person you cried in front of?

my grandma? probably.

[tamboradventure]

How to See Taiwan on a Budget

Posted: 6/8/20 | June 8th, 2020

With a million things to do, a huge variety of delicious food, warm-hearted people, lots of hiking opportunities, and beautiful buildings and temples, Taiwan has it all.

Yet, despite that, it remains one of the most underrated — and undervisted �� countries in Asia.

On the one hand, I like that it’s still off the radar because it means fewer crowds. You’ll never see too many people traveling around Taiwan. It’s, to use the cliche, a hidden gem you have (mostly) to yourself. There are no hordes of people trying to take their IG selfies.

On the other hand, it’s a shame people don’t make Taiwan a bigger travel priority because it’s so wonderful and has so much going for it. This is a country that deserves way more attention than it is given.

And, what’s great for budget travelers like us, is that Taiwan is also super affordable.

It’s on a level of cheapness similar to parts of Southeast Asia, with many meals costing only a few dollars. Even when I “splurged” on a meal like a high-end sushi omakase, I spent less than 1,200 NT$ ($40 USD). A meal (and too many beers) at an English style pub aimed at expats? Less than 360 NT$ ($12 USD).

Taiwan is a dream destination for those looking to get a lot of value for their money.

Today, I’m going to break down some typical costs in Taiwan, my suggested budgets, and ways to save.  

Typical Costs

Taiwan is pretty cheap so, as long as you don’t eat at high-end restaurants or stay at upscale hotels, you won’t be hard-pressed to spend a lot of money. Here’s a list of typical costs in new Taiwan dollars (NT$):

Noodle soup – 30-45 ($1-1.50 USD)

Noodles – 40 ($1.35 USD)

Rice – 85-100 ($2.85-3.35 USD)

Lunch boxes – 100 ($3.35 USD)

Sushi lunch – 300 – 450 ($10 – 15 USD)

MosBurger (best fast food burger joint) – 165 ($5.50 USD)

Museum entry – 30-100 ($1-3.35 USD)

Metro ride – 30-65 ($1-2.15 USD)

Taxi – 70 (plus 25 per kilometer) ($2.35 USD plus 0.84 per km)

Intercity train ride – 375-850 ($12.55-$28.40 USD)

High-speed rail (HSR) – 155-1,500 ($5.20-50.15 USD)

Hostel dorm – 240-600 per night ($8-20 USD)

Hostel private room – 1,050-1,350 per night ($35-45 USD)

  How Much Did I Spend?

Over 13 days, I spent a total of 29,273 NT$ (2,252 NT$ per day). In USD, that’s $981 ($75 USD per day). Now, my notes were a bit less than fully detailed towards the end of my trips and I can’t find some receipts so I’m going to round this up to an even 2,375 NT$ ($80 USD) per day.

That’s actually a lot more than I thought I spent. I had to do the numbers twice but more on that in a second.Here’s how those costs broke down:

Food – 8,597 NT$ ($289.20 USD)

Accommodation – 13,351 NT$ ($449.12 USD)

Tours/Museums – 1,410 NT$ ($47.43 USD)

Transportation – 5,915 NT$ ($198.95 USD)

So why did I spend so much money in a country that I said just was “super cheap”? I mean $80 is way more than Southeast Asia levels. Well, it has more to do with me than travel in Taiwan:

First, I stayed in private rooms. At three to four times the cost of a dorm, that is going to add up really quickly. I don’t like dorms since I’m a light sleeper and, since I was traveling alone, I didn’t have anyone to split the cost of the room with.

Second, I took a lot of high-speed trains. Those tickets are 600-1,200 NT$ ($20-40 USD) a ride versus 150-300 NT$ ($5-10 USD) for the regular train. Since I had little time and a lot of ground to cover, that drove up my costs.

Third, I took a few private tours as I wanted a local guide for myself so I could ask a battery of questions about life in Taiwan. I enjoy doing that over group tours, especially when I am researching destinations for guides like I was during this visit.

And, finally, in an effort to eat as much as possible, I probably had 3-4 meals a day, including many high-end restaurants and Western food. That amount of food really shrank my wallet (but sadly not my waistline). I’m talking a Hobbit level of eating here:

Those four things drove up my daily average to levels your average traveler/backpacker wouldn’t hit in such a short time.

  How Much Do YOU need?

So, with that said, how much do you need to travel around Taiwan? If you replicated my trip, I think 1,930-2,230 NT$ ($65-75 USD) would be enough. You wouldn’t want for anything on that budget and it would cover cheap private accommodation, high-speed trains, some tours, and a healthy amount of food and drinks. If you took a few slower trains or stuck to eating at food markets (avoiding high-end sushi restaurants like me), you could get by closer to 1,785 NT$ ($60 USD) per day.

If you’re on a backpacker budget, you need around 890-1,040 NT$ ($30-35 USD) a day. A dorm room will cost you around 300 NT$ ($10 USD), meals are only 90-150 NT$ ($3-5 USD) each, and beer is pretty cheap. Taking regular (slower) trains would save a few more dollars a day.

In short, whether you’re a backpacker or just a regular budget traveler, you’re never going to spend a huge amount here. Outside accommodation and high-end food, everything in the country is super cheap.  

How to Save Money in Taiwan

If you’re looking to spend even less money and get some good deals, here are things that can lower your costs even more:

1. Skip the High-Speed Rails (HSR) The high-speed trains in Taiwan are super convenient (though they only go down the west side of the island): they depart every 15 minutes and the journey between Taipei and Kaohsiung (the most southern point) only takes 1 hour and 50 minutes.

However, they are also very expensive: a ticket from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 1,500 NT$ ($51 USD). On the other hand, the “local” trains are half the price at just 845 NT$ ($28 USD) (likewise, it’s just 539-739 NT$ ($18-25 USD) from Taipei to Tainan and around 375 NT$ ($12.50 USD) from Taipei to Taichung).

Plus, the HSR line doesn’t pass through city centers, so you’ll either need to take a bus or train from the HSR station, costing more time and money.

So, if you want to save money and aren’t in a rush, skip the HSR trains.

2. Stay in Hostels In Taipei, hostel dorms can be found for 550-700 NT$ ($18.50-23.50 USD) per night for 6-10-bed rooms. Private rooms in hostels can be had for 1,600-2,200 NT$ ($54-74 USD) per night.

Also, skip hostel private rooms. A basic two-star hotel will cost 1,200-1,500 NT$ ($40-50 USD), making it a better budget choice if you want privacy.

3. Eat at the Food Markets The food in Taiwan is world-class. I didn’t appreciate it much when I lived there back in 2010, but now I realize just how diverse, tasty, and healthy the food is. Every town is littered with day and night markets. If you want to save money on food (and it’s very easy to do that here), eating the local food at these markets is the best way to eat on a budget. You’ll find most meals cost around 30-80 NT$ ($1-2.75 USD).

And, even if you prefer a sit-down restaurant, you’re looking at 120-150 NT$ ($4-5 USD) for a meal at a place serving Taiwanese cuisine.

You never need to spend more than 400 NT$ ($15 USD) per day here.

Eat local = save big!

4. Avoid Western Food I mean you didn’t come all this way to eat a bad version of the food you can get back home, right? You can find every Western dish your heart desires in Taiwan and most of these meals will cost about 300 NT$ ($10 USD). But, frankly, skip Western food. I never found anything that great and Taiwanese cuisine is way more delicious and filled with such variety that you’re not going to get tired of “eating the same thing” over and over again.

5. Take Free Walking Tours One of the first things I do when I arrive in a new destination is take a free walking tour. They give you the lay of the land, show you the main highlights of the city, and provide you with a local guide who can answer your questions.

Like It Formosa is the best walking-tour company in Taiwan, offering tours in Taipei, Jiufen, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. Its tours have a cultural and historical focus, making them a great foundation for your visit.

And, if you’re in Taipei and want something more lively, Tour Me Away offers free tours as well as pub crawls and food tours starting at 600 NT$ ($20 USD) per person. They’re a good choice for backpackers looking to meet other travelers.

6. Take the Bus Intercity coach buses are available to all major cities around Taiwan, including Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. They are comfortable, modern, safe, and have air conditioning (too much, usually, so bring a sweater).

A bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes around five hours and costs 300-500 NT$ ($10-17 USD) depending on what day and time you depart.

The two main intercity bus companies are Ubus and Kuo-Kuang Bus. For fares and timetable information, visit taiwanbus.tw.

7. Take in the Free Attractions There are plenty of free temples, shrines, museums, and parks around the country. There’s more than enough to fill your days. I never had a problem wandering around the cities and finding things to do that didn’t cost a penny. Your local accommodation or guide book or Google can tell you what to do.

8. Go Hiking Spend your days hiking Taiwan’s many mountains and trails. Taiwan is filled with national parks. The country is so small that you are never far from any park, they are well connected to public transportation, and they are all free.

***

Taiwan is an incredibly affordable destination . To me, it’s on par with some destinations in Southeast Asia since the food was cheap and so many activities were free. You get a lot of value here. So, if you’re looking for an uncrowded and affordable place to visit, Taiwan is it.

Book Your Trip to Taiwan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

World Nomads (for everyone below 70)

Insure My Trip (for those over 70)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

The post How to See Taiwan on a Budget appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

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Backpacking Europe: The Ultimate Guide

 There are few things as exciting as embarking on a backpacking trip through Europe. The rush of excitement as you step off the plane or train in a new country is an incredible feeling.

As a traveller who spent eight months backpacking around Europe, It’s a feeling I know quite well. Starting in London, I spent the better part of a year hiking through snowy Sweden, devouring pasta in Italy, making new hostel friends in Budapest, and dancing the night away in Spain.

In fact, this backpacking trip was possibly the best experience of my life — it’s something I would whole-heartedly recommend to anyone in the future.

If you’ve ever contemplated spending a few weeks or months in Europe, then this article is for you. I’ll discuss the best itineraries in Eastern and Western Europe, what to expect in terms of safety, and how you can get off the beaten path to see some of the world’s most incredible sights.

*Note: As of 2021, citizens from the USA, Canada, Australia (and other countries) who didn’t need to apply for anything in order to go backpacking in the Schengen visa countries of Europe, must now apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) visa waiver. Also, some countries that needed to apply for a Schengen Visa in the past may now only need to obtain an ETIAS waiver. Learn more about the ETIAS requirements here.

Best Time To Go Backpacking in Europe

If you’re planning on backpacking through Europe, you’ll first need to decide what time of the year to go. This will depend on several factors, including your budget and what countries you plan on visiting.

Many travellers think early fall and late spring are the best times to visit Europe. Depending on where you’re going, the weather will probably be more bearable than summer or winter.

Due to the school holiday schedule, summer is considered the peak season in Europe. The weather is warm, the sun sets later, and the streets are filled with families, tour groups, and travellers in general.

If you plan on backpacking Europe in June, July, or August, you can also expect that prices for hotels and flights will be much higher. It’s not uncommon to spend two or three times more than you would if you went during the off-season.

Speaking of the off-season, the least busy time to travel is from late fall to winter. Although some people take extra time during the Christmas holidays, Europe is generally the cheapest during these months. You might think that the cold temperatures and short days make backpacking harder, but without all the tourists, you’ll get to experience an entirely different side of Europe.

During my backpacking trip, I decided to fly to Stockholm, Sweden for several days in the middle of January. Because of the freezing temperatures and harsh snowfall, a lot of my friends thought I was crazy! However, my hostel was super cheap, and I never had to fight through crowds or wait in line for restaurants. Not to mention, I felt like I had the city all to myself.

The truth is, there’s really no wrong time to go backpacking in Europe. There are advantages and disadvantages to each season, so you’ll just need to decide which time is right for you.

How to Get Around While Backpacking Europe

It should come as no surprise that parts of Europe are known for their fast and efficient transportation system. While some countries make it easy to get around when backpacking Europe, other places might be more difficult. When planning your itinerary, you should take the following methods of transportation into consideration.

Train

Zipping from country to country by high-speed train is a quintessential European backpacking experience. They’re fast, usually on time, and generally affordable compared to flights and car rentals. In some countries, trains also have free wifi and dining cars.

If you plan on taking multiple trains through multiple countries, it’s worth investing in a Eurail pass to save money.  

Bus

Taking a bus through Europe may be time-consuming, but it’s one of the cheapest ways of backpacking Europe. FlixBus and BlaBlaBus are two reputable companies operating in western Europe. You can find tickets for as low as €5 each way — however, most journeys cost between €20 – €40.  

Plane

If you’re short on time or going long-distances, flying might be the best option. Although you’ll need to allow time for check-in and security, it’s often much faster than driving or taking the bus. You might even score a good deal on tickets by booking with a low-cost airline such as RyanAir, EasyJet or WizzAir. 

Car

Renting a car is an excellent option if you want to explore different cities and towns at your own pace. You’ll also have the chance to visit places that are more remote or not connected by train. However, rentals tend to be more expensive. And depending on where you’re travelling, you might need an international driving license and the green light from the rental company to cross borders. 

Caravan

For the ultimate backpacking experience, consider renting a campervan to travel through Europe. Not only will you save money on hotels, but you’ll also be able to get off the beaten path to some of the continent’s most hidden destinations! 

Backpacking Western Europe

As one of the most iconic backpacking destinations, Western Europe has it all. It boasts the glitzy cities and larger-than-life monuments that most people envision when they think of Europe. There’s always a new city to explore and new cultures to experience, whether it’s your first, second, or one-hundredth time on the continent.

However, it may be hard to decide which places to visit during your Western Europe trip. So, I put together this list of my top countries for backpackers.

Backpacking Italy

Overflowing with history and culture, Italy is a classic stop on any Western European itinerary. Whether you’re marvelling at the ruins in Rome or wine tasting in Tuscany, Italy is guaranteed to have something that sparks your interest.

Bigger touristy cities tend to cost much more than the outskirts. Fortunately, some of Italy’s most beautiful settings are where you least expect to find them.

Budget: €50-€70/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €20-€40

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €60-€70

Average Budget Meal Cost: €10

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €4

Cost of Transport by train: €1.50 one way

Backpacking Germany

Many people travel to Germany for Oktoberfest, Carnival, or simply to spend time in the great outdoors. Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are ideal for those who want to experience city life.

On the other hand, there are plenty of cute and charming medieval villages and castles to explore here too. Best of all, Germany’s efficient train system makes backpacking through the country a breeze!

Budget: €90-€100/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €30-€50

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €70-€80

Average Budget Meal Cost: €10

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €3

Cost of Transport by Train: €2.50 one way

Backpacking France

Although it may be one of the most expensive countries on this list, France is still a must-see destination when backpacking through Europe. You can go shopping in Paris, take cooking classes in Provence, or relax on the coast in Nice.

Not to mention, the food is out of this world! Its central location also makes it ideal for travelling between other countries around Western Europe.

Budget: €100-€120/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €30-€50

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €90-€100

Average Budget Meal Cost: €12

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €5

Cost of Transport by Train: €2 one way

Backpacking Spain

The laidback atmosphere of Spain makes it one of the coolest places to visit in Western Europe. Big cities like Barcelona and Madrid are filled with museums, parks, and amazing architecture.

For warmer weather, make your way down south to Seville or Malaga. Or, you can always hop to the Canary Islands and Majora for the ultimate beach getaway. Foodies and culture addicts will enjoy spending the day museum hopping and tapas sampling through Spain.

Budget: €70-€80/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €20-€40

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €60-€70

Average Budget Meal Cost: €8

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €3

Cost of Transport by Train: €2.20 one way

Backpacking the Netherlands (Holland)

Backpackers flock to Amsterdam for the beautiful canals, world-class museums, and raging nightlife. However, there are many other picturesque cities and villages to visit in the Netherlands.

For instance, you can spend a few days in some of the Netherland’s other big cities, like The Hague and Rotterdam. Or, make your way to Giethoorn, a fairy-tale-like city with lush green foliage and dozens of picturesque canals.

Budget: €90-€100/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €20-€40

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €70-€80

Average Budget Meal Cost: €10

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €3

Cost of Transport by Train: €3.50 one way

Backpacking Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is often overlooked by travellers in favour of well-known countries like France, Germany, and Italy. But for the adventurous backpacker who’s looking for something a bit different, eastern Europe packs a big punch. To put it simply, countries in eastern Europe are breathtaking. Not to mention, it’s usually a lot cheaper than western Europe.

If you want to get off the beaten path and make your dollar stretch further, check out my favourite destinations in Eastern Europe.

Backpacking the Czech Republic (Czechia)

Teeming with gothic architecture and cobblestoned cities, the Czech Republic is one of the easiest countries to reach from Western Europe. It’s just a short train ride away from Germany, Poland, and Austria.

Architecture lovers must visit Prague, the country’s capital city — otherwise known as the “City of a Hundred Spires”. Other towns, such as Český Krumlov and Brno, are less touristy but equally stunning to visit.

Budget: €60-€70/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €20-€30

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €60-€70

Average Budget Meal Cost: €6

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €1.50

Cost of Transport by Train: €1.50 one way

Backpacking Bulgaria

Located on the Black Sea, Bulgaria is an excellent destination for those who want both beach and city life. The capital of Sofia has 2,000 years worth of history, which is reflected by the city’s diverse and ornate architecture. After a few days in the city, head to culture-rich Plovdiv, or Varna, a small resort town located on the Black Sea. This holiday spot is affordable and known for its white-sand beaches and sunbathing.

Budget: €30-€40/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €10-€20

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €30-€40

Average Budget Meal Cost: €3

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €2

Cost of Transport by Train: €.80 one way 

Backpacking Romania

From the forested region of Transylvania to the clifftop fortress of Bran Castle, Romania is dotted with otherworldly attractions. City-goers can spend time exploring Bucharest and Brașov, while outdoor lovers will revel in the majestic wonder of the Carpathian Mountains.

Most travellers actually spend more time in the outdoors here than they do in the city! Best of all, Romania is one of the cheapest places to visit in Eastern Europe.

Budget: €30-€40/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €10-€15

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €30-€40

Average Budget Meal Cost: €4

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €2

Cost of Transport by Train: €1 one way

Backpacking Hungary

Ideal for everyone from budget backpackers to high-end travellers, Hungary is a country that draws you in. In Budapest, you have gritty hostels and street food stalls standing next to luxury resorts and gourmet restaurants. It oozes class and royalty, however, still manages to pay homage to its diverse cultural heritage.

Budget: €40-€50/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €15-€30

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €30-€40

Average Budget Meal Cost: €7

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €1.50

Cost of Transport by Train: €1.50 one way 

Backpacking Ukraine

Over the last few years, Ukraine has become increasingly popular amongst backpackers and travellers. Ukraine is a sprawling country, and many people just have time to visit Kyiv or tour the abandoned city of Pripyat (Chernobyl).

Despite what some may think, Ukraine is a safe place to visit if you stay within certain areas. So, with an open mind, I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time backpacking through Ukraine.

Budget: €30-€40/day

Average Dorm Bed Cost: €10-€20

Average Budget Hotel Cost: €20-€30

Average Budget Meal Cost: €5

Cost of Beer in Restaurant: €2.50

Cost of Transport by Train: €.50 one way

Recommended Itineraries for Backpacking Europe

There are 44 countries in Europe, which could make planning the right backpacking itinerary a bit of a challenge. Unless you have an unlimited budget and vacation time, you’ll need to be strategic about where you visit. If you need some inspiration, then take a look at some of my sample travel itineraries.

2 Weeks in Western Europe: First Time Travellers

If you’re coming over to Europe for the first time, you’ll be eager to see as much as you can in just a short amount of time. Although it’s a whirlwind tour, this 2-week itinerary takes you to Western Europe’s most iconic cities.

While two weeks is never enough time in Europe, you can still make the most of your visit by tackling the biggest highlights and attractions.

Day 1-3: London, the UK Day 3-6: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Day 6-8: Berlin, Germany Day 8-11: Paris, France Day 11-14: Barcelona, Spain

2 Weeks in Eastern Europe: First Time Travellers

If you’re looking to save a few bucks on your first backpacking trip, then consider heading to Eastern Europe. Accommodation, food, and entertainment are much cheaper there than in Western Europe, meaning you can feel comfortable buying your new hostel friends an extra round of drinks.

Between the ancient towns and ornate architecture, you’ll be able to make your way through some of Eastern Europe’s most stunning destinations.

Day 1-3: Prague, the Czech Republic Day 3-5: Krakow, Poland Day 5-7: Bratislava, Slovakia Day 7-10: Budapest, Hungary Day 10-12: Bucharest, Romania Day 12-14: Sofia, Bulgaria

1 Month in Eastern and Western Europe: Highlights

With one month in Europe, you’ll be able to get a feel for the atmosphere and culture of each country. Not only can you spend time in the big cities, but you’ll also get a chance to venture to smaller villages and towns. By escaping the tourist traps, you’ll save money and see a more authentic way of life.

Day 1-3: Paris, France Day 3-5: Nice, France Day 5-8: Barcelona, Spain Day 8-10: Seville, Spain Day 10-14: Rome, Italy Day 14-16: Florence, Italy Day 16-19: Munich, Germany Day 19-21: Prague, the Czech Republic Day 21-24: Budapest, Hungary Day 24-26: Cluj-Napoca, Romania Day 26-28: Bucharest, Romania Day 28-30: Sofia, Bulgaria

1 Month in Western Europe: Slow Paced

Sometimes, it’s better to soak in the city rather than race through it. Slow-paced travellers can still backpack through Europe and enjoy the different sites many European countries have to offer. As a benefit, you’ll also spend less time (and money) on the road.

Day 1-4: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Day 4-8: Berlin, Germany Day 8-12: Munich, Germany Day 12-14: Zurich, Switzerland Day 14-17: Milan, Italy Day 17-21: Barcelona, Spain Day 21-25: Madrid, Spain Day 25-28: Lisbon, Portugal Day 28-30: Porto, Portugal

Is Backpacking Europe Safe?

When I told people I was backpacking through Europe, their first thought was “Is Europe Safe?” After all, I was a solo female traveller staying in hostels, taking trains, and walking alone for eight months. Their concerns were wholly justified.

However, it’s hard to answer point-blank if Europe is safe or not. Safety will depend on a variety of factors, including where and how you travel. While every place around the world has its own set of dangers, there are a few ways to be safe while backpacking Europe.

Take Care of Your Valuables

No matter if you’re in a big city or small village, it’s always important to keep an eye on your personal belongings. Pickpockets and thieves can be anywhere.

Don’t carry around large amounts of cash, and try not to wear anything you don’t want to lose, like expensive sunglasses or fine jewellery. If you’re staying in a hotel, keep your passport and valuables locked in the hotel safe. And if you’re in a hostel, invest in a padlock to keep your bags secure throughout the night.

Make Reliable Friends

Take it from me, backpacking alone is a fantastic experience. You get the chance to meet new people in hostels or even friendly locals in the cafe. In my opinion, it’s crucial to make trustworthy friends during the trip. Not only will you have someone to hang out with, but they’ll be there to help you in case anything goes awry.

Tell Family and Friends Your Itinerary

Before you leave for your trip, give your family and friends your detailed itinerary. Write down the address of your hostels, details of your train trip, and any other information that can be used to reach you. Don’t forget also to tell them if your plans change!

Get Travel Insurance

One of the most important things you can take on your trip is international travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against a variety of travel-related incidents and can save you thousands of dollars in bills and expenses.

Good travel insurance should provide coverage for emergency medical treatments, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellation and interruption. It might also include protection for lost and stolen luggage, as well as missed or delayed flights.

Know Where the Nearest Embassy or Consulate Is

If something were to go wrong on your trip, it’s crucial that you can turn to your home country embassy for help. Most countries in Europe have one embassy and multiple consulate offices for your home country. From lost passports to medical emergencies, the embassy should be able to assist you in dire times of need.

Backpacking Europe Off the Beaten Path

If it’s your first time in Europe, you’ll probably want to visit the big cities and popular landmarks. Who can blame you – the Eiffel Tower at night is spectacular! However, some of the best memories will be made if you get off the beaten path.

Sure, touristy cities are popular for a reason. On the other hand, you’ll be shoulder to shoulder with other tourists rather than immersing yourself with locals. If you’re looking for an authentic experience in your country, I recommend looking outside the guide books and discovering a few hidden gems on your own.

Become Friends with Locals

Locals have the best tips about what to see and do in their home country. They know where all the best restaurants are, where you can score good deals on clothes and souvenirs, and most importantly, where you should be spending your time during your trip.

Facebook, MeetUp, and Couchsurfing are three excellent sites for meeting other travellers and locals. Or if you’re feeling friendly, you can always ask your waitress, bartender, or hotel staff to point you in the right direction.

Rent a Car or Scooter

If you only rely on trains and buses, you’re limited to where you can go in the country. Most public transport systems take you where the touristy sites are in the city centre or to the residential suburbs. By renting a car or scooter, you’ll be able to venture wherever your heart desires.

Additionally, you can go at your own pace. Since you’re not tethered to a tight train schedule, you can explore the entire area at your leisure.

Do Your Research – But Not Too Much!

Instead of reading a guide book for the best places to visit, I recommend scouring the internet for advice. You’ll find hundreds of sites and travel blogs (with pictures) about different places other people have stumbled upon. And chances are, the locations will be way less touristy than what your guide book recommends.

Although it’s good to do your homework, try not to stick to a strict itinerary. Feel free to be open-minded and take a few risks! Some of the best experiences are the ones that happen when you least expect them.

The Best Off the Beaten Path Destinations in Europe

By now, you should have an idea of where you’d like to visit while backpacking in Europe. But for more inspiration, take a look at my favourite secret and tucked away destinations throughout the continent.

Cavtat, Croatia: This portside village is just a stone’s throw away from the heart of Dubrovnik, Croatia’s most famous walled city. Along the water, you’ll find outdoor cafes, boutique shops, and sun-soaked beaches.

Reims, France: If you’re looking to add a bit of luxury to your backpacking trip, head to French champagne country. Reims is surrounded by dozens of champagne caves and tasting rooms where you can sample this bubbly favourite.

Orvieto, Italy: Nestled on the cliffside of a volcano, Orvieto is a classy, charming village in the middle of Umbria. Come for the breathtaking views or sample some of the most delicious handmade pasta from a family-run restaurant.

Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber, Germany: Ripped right from the pages of a fairy-tale, Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber is a picturesque medieval town. This walled city can be visited just for a day trip. However, I recommend staying a few days around Christmas for the famous Christmas market!

Cluj-Napoca, Romania: In the heart of Transylvania sits Cluj-Napoca, a colourful, vibrant city known for its lively student population. After checking out their cobblestoned old town, take a seat in an outdoor cafe and enjoy a nice, cheap cup of coffee.

Backpacking Europe: The Best Hikes

Of course, the big cities in Europe are wonderful on their own. However, it’s the natural beauty of the outdoors that bring these countries to life. For a breath of fresh air, consider embarking on an outdoor adventure with one of these amazing back-country hikes in Europe.

You’ll find trails and hikes anywhere there are mountains, but here are some of the most popular journies in Europe.

Camino de Santiago, Spain

Attracting spiritual and recreational hikers alike, the Camino de Santiago has 300 years of tradition. This most popular route takes roughly a month and leads you from the Camino Frances from St. Jean Pied de Port in France to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Be prepared to meet tons of other like-minded individuals who are also on a self-discovery journey. Click here to learn more.

Eastern Dolomites, Italy

Many people flock to the Dolomites in the winter for picture-perfect skiing and snowboarding conditions. However, Eastern Dolomites is also a great place for hiking in the spring or summer.

Consider making the trek from Dobbiaco to Belluno on this 10-day hiking tour of Italy. The highest point of the trip is almost 3,000-meters above sea level, where you’ll get to enjoy marvellous views of neighbouring Tofana and Lagazuoi.

Slovenian Mountain Trail, Slovenia

Crossing over five different mountains, the Slovenian Mountain Trail is one of the best Eastern European backpacking trails. In just 28 days, you’ll get to explore Slovenia’s finest – Pohorje Hills, Kamnik and Savinja Alps, the Karavanke Alps, and the Julian Alps. It’s not a trip for the faint of heart, but it’s a must-do for any nature lover!

Eagle’s Walk, Austria

With over 33 different trails, Austria’s Eagle’s Walk is perfect for both day trips and long-distance hikes. Beginners will enjoy the flat, leisurely pace along Lake Zireiner See, while experts can take the entire 24-day challenge to see as much of South Tirol as they can.

There are dozens of huts and hotels along the way, where you can eat and spend the night. Since they can book out in advance, I recommend reserving a bed ahead of time.

Samaria Gorge, Greece

If you find yourself in Crete, then consider taking the journey across the stunning Samaria Gorge. This 16 kilometer hike is ideal for intermediate or experienced travellers, as the trek to the top can be steep and rocky. However, the dramatic views from the 100-metre peak make it worth it.

Bohemian Switzerland, the Czech Republic

Despite its name, Bohemian Switzerland actually runs from Germany into the Czech Republic! Located only a few hours from Prague, this short, leisurely hike boasts some of the coolest karst formations in the entire country. The highlight of the hike is Pravčická Gate, a unique rock bridge that was used in the Chronicles of Narnia film.

Ready to Go Backpacking Europe?

Now that you have an idea of what backpacking Europe is like, it’s time to start planning your ideal holiday. Spend a few weeks train-hopping through Germany, sunbathing in the south of Spain, or driving down the coast from Romania to Bulgaria. No matter if you choose Eastern Europe, Western Europe, or both, your options for travel are unlimited.

Even if you have just one week, you can still enjoy many cities and attractions on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. But with more time, you’ll really get to immerse yourself in your surroundings.

And remember, it’s always important to travel with an open mind. As a backpacker, you’ll inevitably experience new cultures and have the opportunity to meet people from around the world. As long as you’re open to new experiences, I’m sure you’re going to have an unforgettable backpacking trip.

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