My First Christmas Away From Home

When I bought a one-way ticket to Sydney, I knew I wasn't coming back for the holidays. I also knew that it would be difficult to be away from home during Christmas. But I never imagined just how homesick it would make me. 

For starters, it doesn't feel like Christmas in Australia. Just ask anyone. The weather is hot & the streets are barely decorated in lights. There's no hot cocoa or mulled wine or eggnog. Nobody wears scarves, tacky Christmas sweaters, coats or mittens. For the Aussies, Christmas traditions include a seafood or barbecue lunch, swimsuits, flip flops, and short-sleeved Santa suits.  

I had always imagined that I would spend Christmas Day on the beach, cooking barbecue with friends and letting the sun soak up every ounce of my Christmas blues. But as fate would have it, it rained the entire day. I worked all day Christmas Eve--four hours at my first job and six hours at my second. That evening, I went to Darling Harbour with a small group of friends. We drank and sang Christmas songs as we watched fireworks light up the water. When it began to pour down, we took cover in a bar where we spent the rest of the night drinking punch with a hodge podge of other travelers and internationals. We walked home in the drizzle & ended up in an alleyway decorated with a hundred empty birdcages where we danced & twirled underneath.

{Town Hall}

{Martin Place}

On Christmas morning, I walked to my friend Emily's flat, so that I could use her wifi to skype with my family back home. Our friend Kat came over just as it started to pour buckets, so we decided to call a cab to go back to my house and get ready for the Christmas festivities. I felt like I hit an all time low as we stood on her doorstep in the rain waiting for the taxi, cider beers in hand, eating rice crackers & hummus for Christmas brunch. It was a pitiful sight.

Everyone arrived to our house around 2:00 pm for the holiday smorgasbord. Because my flatmate, Victoria, had to work both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day night at the hospital, we had about a five-hour window to celebrate Christmas together. Our meal consisted of assorted meats, boiled potatoes and carrots, salad, potato chips, gummy worms, mince pies, hummus, pate, crackers, chocolates and tons of booze. Santa came and left a few goodies in our $1.50 stockings, so my flatmates & I opened those in the afternoon as well. We played Christmas tunes and drinking games, and one of our guests performed a handful of card tricks. We danced around our untidy living room, wearing Santa hats, reindeer antlers, lei necklaces and the paper crowns from our Christmas crackers (which as I learned do not actually contain edible crackers). Even though the weather was miserable & we were all thousands of miles from home, the 10 of us (2 Americans, 1 Canadian & 7 Brits) who come from all walks of life, came together to share a lovely holiday. Because on this one day we all had one important commonality; we were orphans.

{Stockings hung on the fake fireplace with care}

 {Christmas Day}

{Kat, me, & Emily}

{the morning after Christmas}

So I survived my first Christmas away from home. And though I made the most of it, I hope it will be the last Christmas that I miss. There's a warmth that comes from being with your family on Christmas. It's a kind of warmth that has nothing to do with the weather. It comes from the glow of the fireplace, the twinkling lights on the tree, my grandma's cookies, my mom's crab fondue. It's a warmth that radiates from the smiles and laughter of the people you love most. It fills you up like Christmas dinner--until you're so full you can't imagine being any happier. That's what Christmas spirit is to me & it took being a half a world away for me to learn to appreciate it. 

Learning How to Surf

If signing a four-month lease on an apartment in the eastern suburbs when I didn't have a job wasn't stupid impulsive enough, immediately afterwards, I registered for a week-long surfing camp. I've always wanted to know how to surf, and I knew it was something I had to do when I came to Australia. By learning at the beginning of my trip, I would never have to turn down an opportunity to catch some waves. I also realized that once I started working as a casual employee, it would be virtually impossible to ask off for five days in a row. So for the week, I cast aside my troubles about job hunting and money, and lived the Aussie saying of "no worries."

Surf Camp was everything that I imagined life in Australia would be like. I lived in a cabin at a campsite in a tiny village called Gerroa, several hours south of Sydney. In my room were three bunk beds that were shared between me and five other guys (two from Sweden, two from Germany, and one from England). The campsite was only a short walk away from Seven Mile Beach, which offers the perfect conditions for beginning surfers--small waves, sandy ocean floors, and minimal wind. For five days I lived on the beach. I didn't wear makeup, fix my hair, or have to worry about what I was going to wear, because we were all there for one purpose-- to learn how to surf.

I would love to say that Surf Camp was the perfect relaxing holiday, but that would be a far cry from the truth. Our daily schedule was as follows:

Breakfast 8:00-9:00

Wetsuits on by 9:00

1st lesson 9:30-11:30

Lunch 12:30-1:30

Wetsuits on by 2:30

2nd lesson 3:00-5:00

Dinner 6:30-7:30

As it turns out, surfing is really difficult. I naively believed that by being a decent swimmer and spending years of summer vacations in the ocean, I would inherently be good at it. I couldn't have  been more wrong. Surfing is definitely an extreme sport, and I'm no extreme athlete. Each two hour lesson began with a run along the beach and a series of stretches. I struggled to carry my heavy, nine-foot surf board the quarter-mile stretch from the main road to the beach. By the end of the day, I was exhausted and curled up in my bed by 10:00 pm.

Winter was still ending in NSW so the water was anything but warm. I'm convinced my wetsuit (which was tight, uncomfortable & made me look like a seal) had a hole in it, because no matter what I did, it always seemed to let the cold water inside. It usually took me about ten minutes to adjust to the water temperature at the beginning of each lesson. I remember one morning in particular when the sun was masked by thick layers of clouds, and I couldn't manage to get warm. I spent half the lesson lying helplessly on my board, too frozen to move, wondering if this is how Rose felt at the end of The Titantic. 

Surf Camp is good for serving your ego a healthy dose of humility. Not only were my small group members and instructors able to watch the glory of me falling off the board and nosediving repetitively, there was also a photographer on site to capture the moments on film so that all 70 campers could see at our daily slideshows after lunch & dinner. On multiple occasions the slideshow was paused so that I could be made an example of "what not to do" or just so everyone could laugh which was actually less painful than the prior. My favorite day was our last lesson during which we were divided into teams for a relay competition. Each team member had to run into the cold surf, ride a wave, standing for more than three seconds, pick up the heavy board and run back to the beach and tag the next in line. Our team came in last place. It brought back haunting P.E. memories of elementary school.

{all images via Surf Camp Australia}

Despite being the worst wannabe surfer that ever lived, I'm really glad I attended Surf Camp. I learned a lot about the types of waves, currents, winds and tides, and I actually stood up on my board multiple times.  I crossed an item off my bucket list and came back to Sydney with new friends, new knowledge, sand on everything I own, and a lovely wetsuit tan line. 

The Little Black Jacket

Chanel came to town with The Little Black Jacket exhibition featuring photography by Karl Lagerfeld. The exhibition, which showcases well-known figures wearing the classic tweed jacket, arrived in Sydney on October 27th and it ended today. The photographs were displayed on large canvases in a dark and quiet warehouse building, located on the water at Walsh Bay. If you're in Paris, Berlin, or Seoul during the next two months, I highly recommend checking out this exhibit. The photos are incredible and capture the personality and style of each of the celebrities wearing the little black jacket. Even if you don't own a Chanel jacket of your own, you will be amazed at how one little jacket can be worn a hundred different ways. Admission is free and you get to take home a complimentary set of poster prints.

The Race That Stops a Nation

No, I'm not talking about the US presidential election. Today is the biggest race in Australia--the day that everyone gets off work early and heads to their favorite restaurant, pub, or local racetrack. It's bigger than the Superbowl and twice as glamorous. Today is the Melbourne Cup. While Derby Day is all about classic elegance in black & white, the Melbourne Cup is a chance to flaunt bold trends, colors and patterns. So fasten your fascinator and place your bets, because today's horse races are about to begin.

Here's what I'm wearing on my first Melbourne Cup Day:

{peplum dress: sportsgirl, wedges: ralph lauren, jewelry: forever 21 & sportsgirl, 

flower: myer, purse: sportsgirl, scarf: target}

Derby Day

Where else in the world do you come across a series of events that mixes sport with high fashion, gambling, and drinking? The Aussies love their horse races & today is Derby Day. So whether you're watching the races on the telly or you're lucky enough to be at the racetrack in Victoria, be sure to dress in black & white and remember these few dos and don'ts: 

• Don't wear a strapless dress.
• Do drink water (between your glasses of champers) to stay hydrated.
• Don't forget to wear sunscreen.
• Do wear sensible shoes that won't have you sinking into the field or walking home barefoot at the end of the day.
• Don't let your hat & dress compete against one another. Allow one to take the spotlight.
• Do take a small handbag. Nobody wants to carry around a heavy purse all day.
• Don't pull an Eliza Doolittle:

• Do get inspired by these derby day hats, dresses, shoes, & bags.

{Click on the picture to shop for these items}

Springtime in Sydney

The weather is warming in New South Wales, and as the temperature continues to climb and the days pass by, I find myself even more in love with Sydney. This may be my second spring season this year, but it's shaping up to be my favorite. The streets are covered in purple blossoms, sprinkled by the trees above, almost intentionally, as if they were decorating for a wedding. Shop windows showcase their best racing attire--dresses, hats, fascinators, and suits for watching the horse races in this season. And the harbour is especially glittery under the spring sun.

I've been enjoying my evening jogs in Centennial Park, watching people ride horses, fly kites with their children, or play fetch with their dogs. As I walk home, I pass the duck pond where the black swans do their haunting dance on the water. I smell the honeysuckle growing along the fence line. I get chased by a bee. Work keeps me busy, but I love spending my free time outdoors, and there's so many places to do that here in Sydney. It may be a big city, but it's also blessed with gorgeous beaches, parks, and nearby mountain escapes. I can't think of anywhere I'd rather be right now.

Off the Map

For a developed Western nation, Australia seems to lag behind when it comes to wireless Internet availability. Many cafes don't offer free wifi and if they do, it often comes with a 30 minute time limit. What do they expect people to do on the web in 30 minutes? I can't even make it through my junk email folder in that amount of time. So if you've been checking for blog posts or waiting on an email reply for me, I sincerely apologize for the delay.

I have to say, despite the challenges it has created for staying in touch with friends & family back home, the lack of connectivity has been refreshing. I don't have a smart phone here. In fact, the coolest feature my little Nokia phone has is a built in flash light and FM radio. Without 3G, I'm not on Twitter every hour. If I want to know what's going on in the world, I have to pick up a paper, and I turn on the news to hear the weekly weather forecast. Without constant Facebook status updates at my fingertips, I'm forced to make a conscientious effort to stay in contact with friends, whether that's giving them a call or meeting them for coffee on the weekend. I no longer waste hours of my day reading blogs, browsing Pinterest, and online shopping, which has left me time to enjoy's life simple pleasures like reading a novel or taking a stroll through Centennial Park.  

The last time I lived abroad, in Germany, I really struggled with maintaining a sense of presence. Working at a social media company and having unlimited wifi in my apartment meant I was always plugged in and aware of everything that was going on  back home. When I saw photos, updates and pictures of the gorgeous weather in Texas that I was missing, I began to develop a fear of missing out (FOMO). Things are much different here in Australia and though I miss everyone from home dearly, the lack of technology in my life has made me less homesick and able to enjoy living in the present moment.

This blog was meant to be one of my major projects while traveling. And after a two month technology hiatus, I've finally purchased a pocket wifi device which allows me up to 6GB of data usage. Hopefully I won't burn through that in one month, and I'll be able to update this blog on a more regular basis.

Flat Hunting in Sydney

After three weeks of sleeping in a bunk bed and sharing a room with seven other people, I knew it was time to move out of the hostel. Rates for the peak season had begun to skyrocket and there were loads of extra hidden fees such as wifi and the laundry machines. Luckily one of my roommates, Vicky, who had been a resident of Room 206 for nearly three months was more than keen to find an apartment with me. 

We began our search on Gumtree, Australia's answer to Craigslist. Fully furnished apartments are few and far between in Sydney, but we phoned and emailed contacts all day until we had 4-5 viewings scheduled. Our goal was to move out of the CBD and somewhere closer to the beach for summertime.  

Apartment hunting in Sydney seems to be much different than it is back home in Texas. Or perhaps it's just different because I'm searching in a big city. Agents don't lure you into a home that smells of freshly baked cookies, letting you ask questions about the plumbing and the condition of the house. Our real estate agent, Ronan, drove us to two apartments, herding us through the rooms like sheep for a whirlwind tour of the place. His comments about how the flat had three more viewings that evening and that if we wanted it, we should turn in an application and bond deposit by 9 am the next morning, made our decision a simple and rash one. There was no time to pretend we didn't like something about the place or act hesitant in hopes of getting a lower price. We sat on the steps outside filling out an application as two more girls showed up to view it. I dashed through the questions with sloppy handwriting and felt a bit queasy when I had to skip the employment section. "It's okay," I told myself. "This will motivate me to find a job." Ronan walked out of the building with the two girls and we told him we'd take it, practically throwing the applications at him. Vicky looked proud as he went to tell the other girls that it was no longer available. "Hah, we won."

The victory of beating the other girls to the flat was tainted by the daunting task awaiting me the next morning. I had to be in the property office at 9 am with four weeks rent in hand. Somehow this little expense was never mentioned to me in all my preparations for this working holiday. A $1000 bond is not pocket change, especially for the unemployed. I knew Sydney was going to be expensive, but I never could have imagined how quickly I'd run out of money.

***

Even though it was a rushed decision and and a stressful process, I'm glad to have a place to call home here in Randwick. With only a 40 minute walk to the beach and a 20 minute bus ride to the city, I feel like I have the best of both worlds.

Things My English Roommates Say

Living and traveling with a bunch of Brits these past two weeks has started to rub off on me. Not only have I switched from coffee to tea (mostly due to affordability) and I'm eating things like beans on toast for breakfast, but I've also caught myself saying words & phrases that I would have never used at home. Here's a sample of the English language that I now hear on a daily basis.

Lift / Trainers / Jumpers / Mental / Geezer / Supermarket / Scumbag / Lovely / Shattered / Fancy / Bin / Press ups / Bless her / Brilliant / Fancy / Cheers / Massive / I'll give you a ring / Rubbish / Take away / Nonce / Torch / Mate / Spastic / Bloody / Mentalist / Posh / Leaving Do / Training  / Proper / Spazzing out / I can't be bothered / Lush / Cheeky / To be fair / Guttered / Mental, mental, chicken oriental / Corridor / Lad / Grubby / Scummy / Treat / Toasties / Keen / Comfies / Minging / Saucy / You alright? / Nicked / Jacket potatoes / Loads / Heaps / Square / Trackies / Have a go / Plasters / Wicked

The guys call me a "yank," which I just love considering I'm a southener from Texas. I get into 3-5 arguments a day on the correct pronunciation and spelling of words such as aluminum. As the only American in my room, I'm clearly outnumbered, so I usually let them think they're right. I'm able to tolerate the jokes because I've realized this is probably the closest I'll ever get to living at Hogwarts.

The Backpacking Culture

These first 2 weeks in Australia have been a fast-paced, crazy blur of events. Sometimes I have to pinch myself to realize that I'm actually here, on my own, trying to begin life in a new country. I've been staying at a hostel called WakeUp! which was formerly an eight-story department store. It's located in the CBD, or Central Business District, though it should stand for Central Backpacker's District. Where George Street and Pitt Street intersect, there are an overwhelming number of hostels, backpacker bars, and travel agencies. The streets are crowded with a strange mix of business people in their suits, Asians, and backpackers. We backpackers are like our own race over here.  

How do you spot a backpacker? Aside from the obvious backpack, there are other signs. Boys have unshaven faces, girls' hair is generally unkepmt, & footwear consists of teva sandals, white Converse, or flip flops. You can hear them swapping stories about their latest tattoo and telling tales of their recent travels in Thailand, Figi, or South America. Living in the hostel remindes me a lot of college without the books. I have seven roommates, mostly English, which tend to come and go, as travelers often do. People are constantly discussing money, how there never seems to be enough and how they plan to make their next fortune.  I recently overheard this conversation on my floor: "We should go down to the internet cafe and google sleep clinics / Oh yeah, I forgot we were supposed to donate our sperm today!" Everyone works hard to play hard. The hostel puts on a events each day and there is a bar located in the basement. Pop music blasts in the elevator and the lobby. The kitchen shelves and coolers are jam packed with boxes of cereal, pasta, and "goon" aka cheap boxed wine.  There are bookshelves on each floor with travel books and novels in English, French, German, and Spanish, leftover from backpacks that could no longer accomodate them. 

The backpacking culture is a wild one and while living in a hostel has been fun and provided the opportunity to meet amazing like-minded people, I'm happy to say that I'll be moving out over the weekend. The weather is just starting to warm up in Sydney and I've found a flat to share with two of my new pals, outside the hustle and bustle of the city and closer to the beach. 

The Day I Didn't Exist

Time travel is real. I know this, because I've just experienced it. When I boarded a Boeing 747 (read: really huge two-story plane) at SFO International airport it was Tuesday, September 4. I arrived in Sydney on the morning of Thursday, September 6. What happened to September 5? For me, it's as if it never happened. During this 24 hour period I practically didn't exist. Trying to sleep in my impossibly uncomfortable seat of 51F, I just lingered somewhere in earth's atmosphere. My 2012 calendar has only 364 days. It's a rather puzzling phenomenon--time travel. 

I was given the most warming welcome upon my arrival at the airport in Sydney. When I walked through customs and immigration like a zombie, exhausted and dizzy from my 27 hour journey from Houston, I handed two officers my passport and claims ticket. They glanced it over and one whispered loudly to the other, "American. She'll be here for 6 months. Traveling alone. Could be suspicious." At least I'm pretty sure that's what they said. I assumed they were joking with me, and I let out a defeated chuckle. 

Then they ushered me into a special line, which wasn't much of a line at all since I was the only person standing in it. The female officer asked me loads of yes or no questions as she emptied the entire contents of my backpack. She scanned each item with an iron detector thingy, which is used to trace illicit drugs and explosives and such. She rummaged around in my carry-on bag and with her gloved hand pulled out an illegal item--a banana. I was caught red-handed, trying to smuggle an exotic fruit from a Peet's Coffee shop across the Australian border. After I explained how I had forgotten to throw it away, she just smiled and asked, "Would you like me to dispose of it?"

"Sure, it's pretty bruised."

"We have bananas here in Australia."

"That's great."

"Enjoy your stay!"

Pre-departure Thoughts: Those Daunting What Ifs

With 2 days to go before I leave for Australia, I've reached the point in my preparations where there isn't much to do except wait. My backpack is packed, the last of my summer earnings have been deposited in the bank, and I've visited with as many friends and family as possible. In this period of waiting, my mind wanders to the uncertainties of this upcoming expedition, and I can feel the self doubt and fear creeping in, tainting my thoughts. 

When I tell people that I'm going to Australia, a common reaction I receive is "You're so brave." Funny, because I feel anything but brave right now. The truth is, I'm terrified. I mean...

What if I can't find a job right away?

What if I don't make friends?

What if I run out of money?

What if i get homesick?

What if I can't afford to come home?

What if I get attacked by a shark?

or a venomous snake?

or crocodile?

or box jellyfish?

or spider?

What if this is all just a waste of time and money?

What if this is harming my CV rather than enhancing it?

What if there are no tacos in Australia?

What if I'm packing too much?

What if I'm not packing enough?

There are 101 ways for things to go awry on my backpacking trip. But for every doubtful what if, there is a counter one. The eternal optimist in me says that for all the reasons why things shouldn't work out, I have to believe in the one reason why it will. I mean...

What if this is the most amazing travel experience of my young adult life, I meet a ton of new friends, and discover what I want to do with my life ?

Silly, I know. But, haters gonna hate dreamers gonna dream.

{via}

"She must find a boat and sail in it. No guarantee of shore.
Only a conviction that what she wanted could exist,
if she dared to find it." -Jeanette Winterson

City Guide: Fort Worth, TX

When Fort Worth crosses your mind, here's what you should do--pack up the car, put on this playlist and drive until you see the friendly, twinkling lights of Funky Town.

I like to think that Fort Worth is one of the best kept secrets in the southern US. Even with a growing population of 750,000, the city feels as casual and approachable as a small town. But not to worry, there's still plenty to do. Whether you're an art aficionado, coffee enthusiast, cowboy or foodie, Fort Worth offers a little slice of something for everyone. Here's a guide to my favorite places around Cowtown:

EAT

Railhead BBQ 
2900 Montgomery Street
  This is a great casual place to get delicious barbecue and watch a football game, sitting under the glow of neon beer signs. I'm also a fan of their cheeky t-shirts that say "Life's too short to live in Dallas."

Thai Select
4630 Southwest Loop 820
Don't be fooled by appearances. This small restaurant may be located in a nondescript strip center, but it's the best, authentic Thai food I've found in Fort Worth.

King Tut
1512 West Magnolia Avenue
I first visited this restaurant after returning from a trip to Egypt with an appetite for Mediterranean cuisine. The owner is so sweet and eager to share stories about his homeland. The entrees are flavorful and well-priced. My favorite thing about the restaurant is the cheesy decorations--including kitschy tablecloths and golden sphinxes.

Spiral Diner & Bakery
1314 West Magnolia Avenue
A cool vegan restaurant that you don't have to be vegan to like. The decor is fun & they've got a great drink menu. Don't try to go on a Monday because they're closed "for a day of rest."

Shinjuku Station
711 West Magnolia Avenue
Named after the famous train station in Tokyo, this Japanese restaurant has a memorable ambiance and menu. Order "tapas style" and try the roasted shishito peppers and seaweed salad. Request to sit outside if the weather is fair and if you have to wait, order a drink by the bar. It's fun to watch the bartenders make the specialty cocktails right in front of you. I highly recommend the Shinjuku Old-Fashioned.

Esperanza's
2122 N Main St
Anyone from Fort Worth will tell you that Joe T. Garcia's is one of the best Mexican restaurants in town. When it comes to atmosphere, I have to agree, but as far as food is concerned, I actually prefer their sister restaurant next door. Esperanza's has a bakery with hard to find Mexican pastries, and their breakfast is terrific. I always order the migas.

The Woodshed
3201 Riverfront Drive
The latest venture of local celebrity chef, Tim Love, this smokehouse is perfectly nestled on the Trinity River. It boasts a menu of salads, sandwiches, tacos, barbecue, and family-style dishes. The patio is the ideal place to enjoy one of the 25 craft beers on tap with friends, and there is often live music in the evenings.

Food Trucks
Both the Fort Worth Food Park and Cowtown Chow Down have a rotating schedule of food trucks, live music events, and free wifi. If you want a quick and cheap eat that's also unusual, check out the hours and schedule on their websites.

Fuzzy's Taco Shop
2917 West Berry Street
Maybe I just love this place because it was one of my old college haunts, but their fish tacos are really amazing, topped with feta, cilantro, and tomatoes. Order chips & queso for the table--you won't be sorry.

DRINK

The Flying Saucer
111 East 3rd Street
Admittedly, I haven't been here since they moved from the historic Land Title Block building, but their beer selection is unbeatable. (It's the only place in town I can find my favorite German schwarzbier.) They offer daily specials and trivia night is on Tuesdays.

The Library Bar
611 Houston Street
I don't enjoy the weekend crowd at the Library, but if you're up for some Tuesday night socializing, go play "Not Your Grandma's Bingo" at 10 pm and drink $1 Tecates.

Embargo
210 East 8th Street
You either love it or hate it, but this latin club's mojitos are legendary. They also sponsor free salsa lessons for those of us who are rhythmically challenged and dance competitions for those who aren't.

Pete's Dueling Piano Bar
621 Houston Street
Always a crowd-pleaser, Pete's is a fun place for big groups or if you just feel like a good old-fashioned sing-along.

Capital Bar
3017 Morton Street 
When the weather is nice, the backyard is the place to see and be seen. Live music or DJ, there is always musical entertainment and dancing at Capital. No cover charge on Wednesday and Thursday.

Bar Louie
2973 West 7th Street
Bar Louie is usually crowded, but the atmosphere is chill. The cocktails are pricey but delicious. Though the rooftop bar no longer offers much of a view, it's still picturesque and nice on a summer night.

Rahr & Sons Brewery

701 Galveston Avenue
A local brewery that offers tours, events, and collectible pint glasses.

BE MERRY

Blue Mesa
1600 S. University Drive
The best bargain for Happy Hour. $4 drinks and a free quesadilla & nacho bar that doesn't skimp on portions. Get there early; the patio is always packed.

Gloria's

2600 West 7th Street #175
The best margaritas in town and a Happy Hour that lasts all day Monday-Thursday. They should just call it Happy Days.

WAKE UP

Avoca Coffee
1311 West Magnolia Avenue
This is my go-to coffee place in Fort Worth. There are just enough seats and outlets to accommodate busy bodies on their laptops, and the coffee is amazing. Did I mention they often have free samples of Dude, Sweet Chocolate? Coffee, free wifi, AND chocolate! I think I'll just move in, thanks.

Paris Coffee Shop
704 West Magnolia Avenue
Not a coffee shop at all. It's actually a diner with a cheap and delicious breakfast menu. Very southern--think cheesy grits and biscuits with gravy. I include it here, because the drip coffee is surprisingly good.

Buon Giorno Coffee
915 Florence Street
A favorite of students and local musicians, Buon Giorno also makes a really mean cup of coffee. And by mean, I mean sensational.

Stay Wired
2918 West Berry Street

What this coffee house lacks in charm, it makes up for in a really smooth cappuccino. Also a computer repair shop, they can fix your laptop while you sip your coffee.

BRUNCH

Blue Mesa
1600 S. University Drive
Yes, the same place that is famous for its happy hour also has an incredibe Sunday brunch. The buffet is $18.95 for adults and $6.95 for children, but it includes an overwhelming spread of southwestern food as well as bottomless mimosas.

Sapristi Wine Bistro

2418 Forest Park Blvd

The first time I went to Sunday brunch at Sapristi, I opened the door to hear laughter and glasses clinking--always a good sign. The food is delicious and worth the occasional splurge. And no brunch is complete without a mimosa or bellini--both are good here.

SHOP

Stella's
3460 Bluebonnet Circle
Named after an adorable Jack Russell terrier, Stella's is a "shop of shops" and a great place to find unique jewelry and clothing.

Beehive
5122 Camp Bowie Blvd
A trendy boutique with the latest styles at prices that won't break the bank.

Cattle Barn Flea Market
Cattle Barn #1, Will Rogers Complex on Gendy St & Harley Ave
A true flea market inside a historic cattle barn, this weekly event defines everything I love about Fort Worth--it's hip, yet unpretentious. Stop in on Saturday or Sunday for bargains on costume jewelry, collectibles, old trunks, you name it.

Montgomery Antique Mall
2601 Montgomery Street
This antique house is massive with over 240 vendors. Anyone from avid collectors to casual browsers will find a souvenir to take home.

PLAY

The Stockyards
Directions here.
No visit to Fort Worth is complete without a trip to the historic Stockyards. It's where Fort Worth gets its nickname, Cowtown. Watch the cattle drive, explore the maze, and shop for cowboy boots and souvenirs.

Billy Bob's Texas
2520 Rodeo Plaza

Step inside the world's largest honky tonk and reaffirm all the stereotypes you have of Texas. Learn to two-step, watch the bull riders, and catch a concert inside the dancehall where music legends were born. Billy Bob's is like its own world, but everyone must experience it once.

Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
3400 Burnett Tandy Dr

Established in 1896, the FWSS&R is one of the oldest around. It's definitely worth checking out if you're visiting in January or February.

Kimbell Art Museum
3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard 
My favorite art museum in Fort Worth, the Kimbell has an impressive permanent collection, world famous rotating exhibitions, and a delicious lunch buffet.

Trinity Trails
The Trinity River runs right through the heart of Fort Worth and right alongside is 40 miles worth of trails for walking, jogging, or cycling. Many improvements and projects are being planned for the Trinity River, so I imagine it will be an even cooler area 5-10 years from now.

The Botanic Garden
3220 Botanic Garden Boulevard

Escape from the city. Pack a picnic, fly a kite, or throw around a frisbee on the lawns of this 109-acre park. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden is the oldest in Texas and the perfect place to take a walk or lie in the grass with a good book.

***

I recently returned from a weekend trip to the Fort to say "see you later" to my college friends and old stomping ground. Saying goodbye to the city that had become my home was not easy, and I know I will miss many of the places I've listed here in this guide. Even though I'm off to a new destination right now, I like to believe I'll be back one day--maybe even permanently. Happy trails to you, Fort Worth, until we meet again.

Back to Backpack

There's something about the end of summer and backpacks that seem to go hand-in-hand. Just in time for back to school, or your next hiking adventure, these day packs will keep everything you need within easy reach. Whether you're carrying books, a map and compass, or lip gloss, you can count on one of these backpacks to do the job. Consider your backpack your new best friend--dependable, supportive, and willing to go wherever you go--it's got your back.

Shop the backpacks above by clicking on the picture,
or for additional styles, check out the collections at
Urban Outfitters, Herschel Supply, and Duluth Pack. 

12 Reasons Why I'm Taking a Gap Year

In 19 days, I'm moving to Australia! My plan? Well, I don't really have one. I'm going on a one-way ticket with a working holiday visa and a backpack, and I hope to spend approximately 6 months traveling the country while working temp jobs along the way. Perhaps you're wondering why anyone would do this. It may seem foolish, irrational, and impractical to you. But here are 12 reasons why I've decided to take a gap year and maybe why you should too:

1. I'm young. And as Anthony Bourdain said, "If you’re twenty-two, physically fit, hungry to learn and be better, I urge you to travel— as far and as widely as possible. Sleep on floors if you have to. Find out how other people live and eat and cook. Learn from them —  wherever you go." And that's exactly what I intend to do.
2. Sometimes I make impulsive decisions. This one tops the list.
3. I've caught a chronic case of the travel bug.
4. I'm broke now, so it's not as if I'm going to miss a salaried paycheck while I'm making minimum wage.
5. By working temp jobs and traveling to new cities, I hope to grow my global network and be exposed to a variety of industries and companies. And maybe, just maybe this experience will give me some direction toward a career.
6. Say all you want about how this economy sucks, but those entry level jobs-- they're still going to be there when I get back. I have my whole life to spend working at a serious job. What's the rush?
7. Thus far, I've been able to divide my international journeys into the following categories: volunteering, studying, and working. I want to add a fourth category--wandering.
8. I'm a naturally curious person. I've never been to Australia. With its miles of gorgeous coastline, funny accents, kangaroos, surfing, and diving, what's not to like? I want to unearth the secrets of this mysterious island/country/continent.
9. I really don't like cold weather. By leaving in September, I will catch the beginning of the Australian spring, escaping the cold weather for an entire year. Take that, winter!
10. I want to learn to live simply. There's something so freeing about being able to carry all you own on your back. Occasionally during college, I found myself caught in a web of materialism, always wanting something more. I hope to prove to myself that I can be happy without owning lots of things--that less is really more.
11. I want to give writing a serious go. People have always told me that you should pursue what you love--whatever it is that you lose track of time doing. For me, that thing has always been writing. I hope to develop my skills, build a portfolio, and learn to be a great storyteller. 
12. If there's anything I've learned in my 22 years, it's that life is short. One moment you're sitting down to a dinner of leftover lasagna, waiting for the final member of the table to walk through the door, except he never does. Last semester, I waited on an email response from a professor, only to discover that she would never lecture again. There are no guarantees in life--not even tomorrow. If there's something you want to do, you should do it. Our lives are a collection of experiences and moments. Going to Australia, scuba diving, driving on the left side of the road, surfing, and building campfires on the beach--these are all things I want to experience, and I've decided to do them now rather than hope I can do them later. I hope you'll do the same.

What are you waiting for? Take that leap of faith. 

{image via}

Vintage Shopping in Austin

Austin, Texas is one of my favorite cities in the US, and every time I visit, I try to spend some time shopping in one of the many vintage boutiques. Why buy vintage? A lot of people don't understand it, claiming that vintage is just a fancy word for old. There are a several reasons I enjoy shopping at thrift, resale, & vintage stores: 1) It's sustainable. 2) Fashion is cyclical. Yesterday's fads are tomorrow's trends. 3) It's an easy way to add an individual touch to your wardrobe. Wearing unique, recycled pieces means you're not going to be caught wearing the same outfit as your best friend, coworker, or professor. 4) It allows me to be creative. Strolling through a vintage shop turns the wheels in my imagination, trying to envision how an outdated dress could be styled for modern wearing.  With that said, here are a few of my favorite vintage stores in Austin:

Prototype Vintage Design

1700 1/2 S. Congress Ave. (entrance on Milton St.)

Prototype is my favorite vintage spot in Austin. It's well-organized and has a killer t-shirt selection as well as a few pieces of retro furniture and decor. The owners tend to select pieces that are well-suited for modern style and their prices are reasonable. Don't miss this one!

I picked up this acid wash button down and square scarf from Prototype.

Feathers

1700-B S. Congress Ave.

Right next door to Prototype and well-worth a stop, Feathers has amazing vintage pieces that are worthy of a New York boutique. The prices tend to be a little higher but aren't outrageous when you consider that many of the clothes are designer label. The store has a great aesthetic and I always feel inspired after browsing the collection of dresses, handbags, shoes, and jewelry.

Uncommon Objects

1512 S. Congress Ave.

A SoCo classic which everybody should experience as least once, Uncommon Objects is a treasure trove of antiques, furniture, vintage maps, salvaged jewelry, and trinkets. It's like rummaging through your grandma's attic, but so much better!

Off the Wall

1704 S Congress Ave.

Off the Wall has an awesome selection of furniture, antiques, and collectibles as well as vintage cowboy boots and handbags. The owners are friendly and knowledgeable, and it's easy to lose track of time as you sift through the many shelves of curiosities and odds and ends.

New Bohemia

1606 S. Congress Ave.

With styles from the 40s to the 90s, New Bohemia maintains a rotating collection of vintage frocks, boots, handbags, and jewelry. Browse the sale rack outside and admire the glittery store sign.

Cream Vintage

2532 Guadalupe St.

With over ten years of experience, multiple locations, and more than 15,000 vintage pieces in stock, Cream  knows what's up. Their location on the Drag at UT has sale bins for rummaging and they offer in-store alterations.

***

Consider this a beginner's guide to vintage shopping in Austin. The list is short, but it's concentrated in two areas and easy to do in one afternoon. I hope to improve it in the future, adding new stores and photos. Did I miss your favorite shop? Where should I go on my next trip to Austin?

Moonrise Kingdom: Taking Fashion Cues from a Twelve Year-Old

Summertime is for movie watching. At least that's the case when you live in a small town and there's not much else to do. My favorite film I've seen this summer is Wes Anderson's new flick-- Moonrise Kingdom. The story takes place in a tiny New England town where two twelve year-old misfits fall in love and run away from home. Sounds cheesy? Well...it is, but in the adorable summer camp romance sort-of-way that only Wes Anderson can create. It's packed with hilarious one-liners and a great soundtrack. If you haven't already seen it, I highly recommend it.

The quirky and imaginative adventures of Sam and Suzy made me want to put on a Francoise Hardy record, pack a picnic and go camping with my kitten. I've always had a thing for 1960s fashion, and I love how little Suzy's micro-mini dresses are on trend with the contrasting collars seen in stores today.

Want to copy Suzy Bishop's style? Slip into one of these darling dresses.
They give a subtle nod to the past, but are totally wearable today.
Click on the picture to shop this look.

Summertime in Texas

Summer seems to be the longest season in Texas with warm weather beginning in May and continuing until October, and ever since I was a child, it's been my favorite. Days are endlessly sunny and full of possibilities. Responsibilities are few. The freezer is full of Blue Bell ice cream and there are ice cubes in my coffee. What more could a girl ask for? Sure, the sidewalks are hot enough to fry an egg on and the mosquitoes are unavoidable, but once you're thoroughly doused in bug spray there are many places to escape the heat--at a river, lake, beach, or natural pool. Texas summer nights are peppered with the brightest stars. Mine have been spent watching movies, playing pool, or gathered around a campfire with friends, Shiner Bock beers, and s'mores. The summer may be flying by quickly but I want to treasure its fleeting joys--bare feet, end of season sales, carnival rides, sangria and sundresses.

Time for a Change

Maybe you've noticed a few changes here on the blog-- a new name, URL, and design. So what gives? This redesign is something I've contemplated for quite a while now. The blog's previous name, Rose-Colored Travels, emphasized seeing the world through rose-colored lenses, appreciating the beauty  in everything you see. And while I still consider positivity to be my number one trait, I've realized that writing with a completely optimistic outlook is only possible when you spend a short amount of time in a place. This was the result when I traveled abroad on Semester at Sea, visiting nine new countries and not spending more than a week in each one. As a tourist with only a few days in a city or country, there is just time enough to see all the wonderful things that place has to offer. Your days are filled with museums, cafes, historic churches, breathtaking landscapes, and photo opps. Things changed when I spent three months in Germany last summer for an internship. My stay was long enough to watch the charm dissipate and the skies turn grey--to absorb the culture shock, to realize the negative aspects, to develop homesickness. 

In one month, I will be leaving on my next adventure--backpacking in Australia. And since I've never considered myself the outdoorsy type, I thought Hiking in Heels would be an appropriate name for this next chapter of travel. This title will allow me to combine my love of travel and writing with fashion. I want my travelogues to be a more honest portrayal of the places I visit, the people I meet, and the lessons I learn. I hope to move beyond the stereotypes, clichés, and glittering generalities. There is so much change happening in my life right now--saying "see you later" to college friends, moving back home, and getting ready to move away again. Though change is scary, it can also feel like a breath of fresh air. I hope the changes on this blog will inspire you to have adventures of your own. I can't wait to share mine with you!

Corpus Christi

Over the weekend I drove down to Corpus Christi to help my friend celebrate her birthday. 

We went dancing downtown at night and spend all day Saturday relaxing in the sun. 

I couldn't get over how blue the water looked. It was shockingly clear for a Texas beach. 

windows down and radio up are an important beach ritual

Hanging out at Bob Hall Pier and enjoying $5 pitchers

I found this baby sand dollar as the tide came in 

sandy floorboards. warm breezes. suntans. 
wild beachy hair & road trips with friends. 

These are my favorite things about summer.