The Adventures of D

How to barter like a pro

I’ve spent some time now in Morocco and Turkey, two places where the prices you see/hear are merely suggestions. If you are feeling unadventurous, go ahead and pay the ridiculously inflated prices. But, the only way to get the good deals on the scarves, shoes, pants, carpets, lanterns, etc., etc.,  is to talk talk talk [...]

Airport Sleeping 101

So, you are going to crash at the airport? I am not a huge fan airport sleepovers. It’s not comfortable. It’s not fun. It’s loud. But, sometimes turning the airport into your own personal sleep sanctuary is the only option. Plus, it’s my favorite backpacker word: FREE. Late-night arrivals, early morning flights, even running out [...]

Getting pricked in Spain

I stood in the back office of the pharmacy off of Francisco Silvela, arm sleeved rolled up, fist clenched.

“No me gusto,” I said to the pharmacy technician as she prepared removed the shot from its white box.

“Si,” she said, sympathizing with me (?).

And then I felt the needle break the skin. Then, it was over.

“Gracias,” I said, smiling with relief. “Hasta luego.”

“Adios,” she responded.

I gathered my belongings and headed out the door back into the overcast Madrid day.

That was shot numero dos, Hepatitis A.

A BRIEF intermission: The best of … Madrid

I LOVE Madrid. Any traveler who meets me and asks me “D, what is your most favorite place you have visited since you started traveling?” my response is always this: “I adored Spain. I could live there. And Madrid, mmmm.” Well, something like that. I have gotten messages from people throughout my adventure asking my [...]

Preparing for my RTW travel: the backpacking packing (a list)

I think I have the ugliest backpack known to man.

It’s two shades of dog-poo brown. But, I think it’s because of it’s lack of exterior good looks, it was such a steal. The 65CL REI pack was mine of the takin’ at a cool $180. That’s $100 less than it’s prettier counterparts, although color aside, they are exactly the same.

One thing’s for sure — the inside of that bag sho’ is good lookin’.

Preparing for my RTW travel: maybe I like to plan a little

I know I’ve said before I don’t like to plan. And, I don’t. The beauty of travel is going with the flow … seeing what comes and then just doing.

However, when someone makes a suggestion that could make your trip even more awesome than originally thought, you DO IT.

So, I did.

Preparing for my RTW trip: bye bye blonde

Hi. My name is D and I’m a hair snob.

Really. I am.

I religiously trim my split-ends. I retouch my roots regularly. Whoever gets me in their chair is one hell of a lucky stylist because, when it comes to my hair, I have been known to spare no expense.

And now I’m going backpacking. And not spending money.

Right.

I can see this working real well.

Preparing for my RTW trip: it aint easy being responsible

It aint easy being responsible.
Sort of.

I went back and forth with two insurance agents — one from the state I live, and one from the state where my car will be parked whilst I galavant and vagabond for months on end. Turns out, unless I want to register my car in the state where it will sit and get pooped on by endless amounts of Canadian Geese migrating, I have to keep the insurance policy I have here.

Great.

Except, in my moment of zeal and excitement, I canceled said policy. Yesterday.

Preparing for my RTW trip: packing for a move

Tonight I am packing boxes. Big, monster wardrobe boxes. I don’t like packing. At all.

And this time, it’s gross.

What I learned in Croatia (The List)

1. If you want Zagreb’s Upper Town to yourself for wandering, it is deserted at 2 a.m. There is nothing more magical than having the city in your hands to breathe in. Even if nothing is open, to walk on the old streets, to see the gothic buildings, it is an amazing experience. Bonus points [...]