Welcome to Candid Moments Vlog!

Hi Guys,

I’ve decided to give something a try…

I’ve created a second YouTube Channel, Candid Moments Vlog!

This second channel will be a follow me around, behind the scenes peek into aspects of the Tourism Industry from the perspective of a budding creator.

I’m testing the waters and am deciding on how much to share and how much to upload, but I thought this could be interesting.

What do you think?

In the comment section below, leave me a link to your YouTube channel and I’ll be sure to check it out.

Thanks,

 

 

Capsule Wardrobes & the Carry On Luggage Challenge!

I love the rush of finalizing travel plans!

Over the weekend I was able to confirm that May will be a hub of activity with two back-to-back adventures.  A little bit of West Coast, a little bit of East Coast – hell, a little bit of Western Europe to add to the mix would be fab… but I shouldn’t get ahead of myself. 

Once the initial excitement tones down, the daunting task of packing becomes a reality.  I love my pieces and my products, but for some reason I cringe at the thought of systematically weeding through everything.  I don’t know about you, but I hate packing.  I love planning, researching, booking, going, and documenting – but dread packing. 

So I’ve decided to challenge myself to not only stick to a capsule wardrobe, but… dare I say… only taking carry-on luggage.  I am open to tips & suggestions for those of you that are savvy travelers.  My most shinning moment is scaling things down to an overflowing tote bag and not exceeding 50 lbs at check-in! 

Cosimo Cavallaro’s Jelly Bean Exhibition

Check out my latest piece, Cosimo Cavallaro’s Jelly Bean Exhibition, published by Dave’s Travel Corner!

Dave’s Travel Corner focuses on experiential travel. Readers are actively interested in a wide range of travel topics across a variety of budgets. International and domestic contributors cover every conceivable culture focusing on a wide variety of content. Does flying to the end of the world in the Caribbean, discovering Charles Dickens’ unfinished dream in Europe, or tips for Being in Kuala Lumpur catch your eye? Then you’ve got to check out Dave’s collection of travel content!

Art Exhibit:

Join me on Instagram!

My love of Social Media and my recent upgrade to the iPhone 5 has finally introduced me to the world of Instagram!

Travel…fashion…architecture…beauty…impromptu shots – I love checking out everyone’s content.

Be sure to follow me at “MGPTravelBlog” for posts, news, trip pics, randoms, and more.  Leave your user name in the comment section below so I can take a peek at your page.

Have any Instagram apps to recommend?  I’m loving the filters, frames, effects, and all that jazz.  It really puts a whole new twist on posting a pic!

Looking forward to a new addiction and a fresh way to tweak content 😉

Exploring Maine!

York, Maine

Having an amazing time on the East Coast!

Yesterday I was lucky enough to be taken for a motorcycle ride and explore a slice of Southern Maine.  Quaint towns oozed charm.  Fresh air and lush green grass are a far cry from Los Angeles.

A Solo Traveler’s Angst About Traveling with a Non-Traveler

Had a difficult conversation with a loved one recently.

We have two different perspectives on travel.  For me it’s my passion, for them it’s a hassle….I’m generalizing a bit.

We were in conversation about a few recent and upcoming trips and it left me a bit down.  We both went or are going on the exact same trip, but it’s interesting (or heartbreaking) that we have two different takes on the experience.  Everyone is entitled to their own thoughts and feelings.  I don’t want to be under the illusion that you’re having an amazing time; I prefer people to be frank.  That being said, I try to put it in perspective and find a way to work within it. 

The conversation confirmed my position as a solo traveler.  Sometimes I just want to go.  I don’t want to be held back by someone elses budget, time restraints, interest or lack of interest.  I’m not saying that this person or any person you enjoy spending time with isn’t an amazing individual.  But when it comes to passion, you really want to share it with a kindred spirit. 

Top Safety Tips for Women Traveling Solo – Pt 2

Hi Ladies,

I love a good adventure – but come home with good stories, not sob stories.

This is not a paranoia post – it just never hurts to keep an eye open. Ultimately no one will take better care of you… then you. These tips are for when you’re on the go.

5. When in doubt, don’t say a word. This is for the easy brush off situation, not an emergency. If someone is overly chatty and you feel as though it’s some sort of pick up line, you don’t have to actually say anything. I’ve had someone sidle up to me, make generic small talk, & it was obvious where he was going with this. I literally didn’t say thing & really didn’t even make eye contact. He stalled out and finally asked if I spoke English! Ha! All I did was give a small smile & he wandered off. Also, depending on your location and what the circumstances are, silence hides the fact that you’re an American.

Top Safety Tips for Women Traveling Solo – Pt 1

Hi Ladies,

I love a good adventure, but come home with good stories, not sob stories.

This is not a paranoia post – it just never hurts to keep an eye open. Ultimately no one will take better care of you… then you. These tips are for when you’re on the go.

1. Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t be so distracted or plugged into your gadget that you can’t pick up on what’s going on around you. There’s something to say about picking up a vibe and leaving before something actually happens.

2. Walk with a purpose. I don’t mossy or endlessly gape at the scenery – I walk as if someone’s waiting for me. Body language goes a long way. Of course, feel it out. This isn’t beach friendly behavior, but works well in train stations, random city streets, and the like.