tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80306400860854357382024-03-05T23:29:08.616-06:002 Girls & A Bikini2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-10377502495439136762019-02-13T15:57:00.000-06:002019-02-13T15:57:31.143-06:00I Won't Complain....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Heeeey Everyone!!!<br />
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I don't know about you, but 2018 seemed to FLY by! I mean, really....where did the time go?! I honestly can't believe it's already 2019. Have you booked any travel yet? I'm trying NOT to make the same mistake I made in 2017 when I overbooked my 2018 and ultimately had to CANCEL a few trips!<br />
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Yep - you read that correctly. Going into 2018, I had more vacation days booked than I actually owned! I entered 2018 overbooked and had to cancel some trips I had planned! How crazy is that? But in the end, it all worked out and by November work had slowed down and I was able to enjoy an extended holiday where I checked out some new beaches (Turks and Caicos) and some of my old favorites (Miami and Cancun).<br />
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However, something odd happened to me. While I was sitting on beautiful Bight Beach, I started to think about the "missed" vacations I didn't take in 2018! I started thinking about how I didn't go to Haiti and how I didn't get to Madrid/Morocco. And I was feeling sad about it! I was actually MAD.<br />
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But then I checked myself! How dare I dismiss the travels I was able to complete in 2018? I mean, I was able to: celebrate a friend's wedding in Havana, travel with another friend to Cartagena, and the most epic - watch my brother marry his forever love in the Hamptons. Not to mention I hopped around beautiful beaches in Providenciales, including Grace Bay!<br />
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Yep, overall I traveled LESS - but enjoyed MORE. I enjoyed more time with family. Spent more time with friends, and officially took my first solo trip where I made fabulous new friends! <br />
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So without even noticing, my travels became MY travels. They became more PERSONAL. My travels became more ENJOYABLE. No longer traveling for traveling sake, I was able to do more of the things I actually wanted to do. <br />
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For instance, my travels in early December could have taken me to Asia, or even South Africa because I was traveling for a total of 12 days. But instead, I decided to build my trip around #ArtBasel in Miami. Why? Because I have been wanting to attend that event for the past couple of years. I went to Providenciales, then Miami, and then Cancun. I didn't care that I had already been to Playa del Carmen earlier in the year because that's my happy place, and I knew I could recharge and reconnect there.<br />
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So, while I didn't get as many #PassportStamps in 2018 as I have in previous years, I feel really good about my travels and I'm looking forward to my 2019 plans. <br />
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What about you?<br />
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</div>
Angela Myers<br />
Founder<br />
2 Girls & a Bikini<br />
<br />
P.S. - check out my 2018 travel photos on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/2girlsbikini" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a>!</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-63441934269767834812018-08-21T09:18:00.000-05:002018-08-21T09:18:00.498-05:00ISSA SICK DAY...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Last week I woke up at 2am with a headache. No, let me rephrase, a MASSIVE HEADACHE. So I quickly sent my day-job manager (yes - I work) an email letting him know that I wouldn't be in that day. "Issa Sick Day" was the subject of the message. I laid back down, trying to get back to sleep. But my head was pounding and my mind just wouldn't turn off.<br />
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I just kept thinking about all of the things that I needed to do: cancel that flight to Madrid, pay my property taxes, get that proposal done, check on my son's financial aid, blah, blah, blah. UUUGGGHHHH. Getting back to sleep wasn't going to be easy. But eventually, around 5am, sleep came.<br />
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I slept until almost 9am! I got out of bed feeling refreshed and grabbed my computer. Cancelled the flight to Madrid because I couldn't make it work (read my blog about <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/note-selfsat-down-angela-myers/" target="_blank">sitting down</a>). Logged onto the city's website and paid my property taxes (priorities). Went to the FASFA website and gave them my income info to complete my son's financial aid package (don't ask). Went through my Hotmail account (that Junk folder had over 300 emails) and responded to some emails in the 2 Girls & a Bikini account (and it had over 300 emails!).<br />
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I also unpacked a suitcase that had held some clothes that I had washed but never put away (don't judge), cleaned my room/bathroom, and by 1pm I was feeling SUPER accomplished. So what do you think I did? I called up some friends who I know work from home or have flexible schedules and guess what? Sick Day = Beach Day!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZk2-3PbF8AEHVD0L4sukc8jeUgRIwa53IxgwMluZR-SPZQaN-yUR0xia1Yh7AG9bZ6SIQ5mGJou07gQQUMobspXRRcNkgiq9nt0V9J45ShldpNOVtN-4xmExUBPK0C9kTrIXZ2MCWZY/s1600/IMG_20180725_185150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZk2-3PbF8AEHVD0L4sukc8jeUgRIwa53IxgwMluZR-SPZQaN-yUR0xia1Yh7AG9bZ6SIQ5mGJou07gQQUMobspXRRcNkgiq9nt0V9J45ShldpNOVtN-4xmExUBPK0C9kTrIXZ2MCWZY/s320/IMG_20180725_185150.jpg" width="240" /></a>Yep, I grabbed my daughter and met another friend at another friend's house and we headed to Miller Beach in Gary, Indiana. Gotta pause for a funny story: we drove 45 mins outside of Chicago (for obvious reasons), pulled up to the parking structure, and there stand's a co-worker's daughter in the parking booth! I couldn't do anything but LAUGH....I said "hello" to her, we chatted, I gave her the $7 parking fee and then I whispered "I was not here". LBVS<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizayxJd2hnerH5lEQPWHcOaDlEsYcG-BJ3qCwy2yAtb1lg9qqcnIgK2xJXwa8TKga8_9w6B9gSytpErNurhd_2fdtsVn0x6X_S9AGmyAw4c_2fF9ReQPgG9ISHyZvUjHTOGNBxNWcz9-I/s1600/IMG_20180725_185134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizayxJd2hnerH5lEQPWHcOaDlEsYcG-BJ3qCwy2yAtb1lg9qqcnIgK2xJXwa8TKga8_9w6B9gSytpErNurhd_2fdtsVn0x6X_S9AGmyAw4c_2fF9ReQPgG9ISHyZvUjHTOGNBxNWcz9-I/s320/IMG_20180725_185134.jpg" width="240" /></a>Anyway, if you live in the area and you have not been to Miller Beach, you should definitely check it out. Miller Beach borders Lake Michigan to the north, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porter_County" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><u>Porter County</u></a> to the east, and is largely surrounded by protected lands, including the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indiana_Dunes_National_Lakeshore" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><u>Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore</u></a> (got that from Wikipedia). The beach is clean and you can see your feet in the water - so it's kinda clear. There were not too many people there (well, it was a Wednesday) and you could walk out pretty far into the water before it drops off to being deep; making it great for kids (but PLEASE keep an eye on your babies near/in the water).<br />
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We had a great afternoon. We laughed, we ordered pizza, we listened to music, and of course we took selfies!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3zaGAroPOvW_bTBmC_f2ZuvkxXZPbo8Uowgp5kFO82h_0Zpoea4N51tpSu_64ke3boT9o5WtuIaojOf7SYkQlXwpnJiqOfyXZZRs3PdLZ3bcjqqAfzeww5gGlAKq4MyN4O3JHHwc0vc/s1600/IMG_20180725_160217_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3zaGAroPOvW_bTBmC_f2ZuvkxXZPbo8Uowgp5kFO82h_0Zpoea4N51tpSu_64ke3boT9o5WtuIaojOf7SYkQlXwpnJiqOfyXZZRs3PdLZ3bcjqqAfzeww5gGlAKq4MyN4O3JHHwc0vc/s320/IMG_20180725_160217_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
By the end of the day, I had forgotten all about the massive headache that woke me up at 2am that morning. I had forgotten about all of the things that were keeping me awake. I needed a reset and I certainly got one. All I remembered was the amazing time I had with family and friends. <br />
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On a beach - of course!<br />
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<br />
Angela<br />
2 Girls & a Bikini</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-34170759703902585582018-08-10T12:27:00.000-05:002018-08-10T15:55:42.178-05:00Havana - Oh Na Na<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKLuhbxiORsuR3xnqjSs35y9oKOGv-vRZJbmAQ3ywaoo3nrARd9jmsOZJid8OPlwCwVmm5876ODHOYZ3Gs4pasjfxACAHInVqqUf6FIVjRxPEBkXl0Ylfh2rkm3uAMIaptBp9FVXZNBU/s1600/Typical-woman-with-cigar-in-Cuba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHKLuhbxiORsuR3xnqjSs35y9oKOGv-vRZJbmAQ3ywaoo3nrARd9jmsOZJid8OPlwCwVmm5876ODHOYZ3Gs4pasjfxACAHInVqqUf6FIVjRxPEBkXl0Ylfh2rkm3uAMIaptBp9FVXZNBU/s320/Typical-woman-with-cigar-in-Cuba.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Let me be completely transparent and honest - because I don't want
anyone to regret purchasing a flight to Havana. I love Havana. I've been there twice and will probably go there many more times and will eventually begin to explore cities outside of Havana. Everyone I know who has been to Havana (and other areas in
Cuba) love it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: black;"><strong>But it's NOT for everyone.</strong> <br />
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There is poverty. There is limited internet connection. It is still a communist
country. There are no fast food restaurants. Sometimes it smells. The buildings are old and
crumbling. The cars are old and the smell of gasoline is strong. Most individuals don't speak English. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">You will be
frustrated. You might wait a long time for your food and/or drinks.
You might get lost. You might not be able to figure out the currency
conversion. You will get asked to pay for that picture with the old woman
smoking a cigar. You will have to maintain the same "street
smarts" about you that you have no matter where you go.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">
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BUT, u will be wow'd at the vibrancy of the city. At the friendliness of everyone u
meet. The music will engulf you and you will want to dance - day and night. You will learn the history of Cuba and you might fall in love with it's story. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The heartbeat of Havana is unlike anywhere I've
been. I woke up everyday excited about what I would experience that day because I didn't know what to expect.<br />
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I never felt unsafe. I never felt unwelcome. I ate and drank well. I laughed. I
danced. I explored. I talked to locals about their experiences. About their history. I talked to them about their economy. About how they feed their kids on the monthly supplement they receive from the Cuban government. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">I cried. I cried for the people of Cuba and their fight for independence because I realized that it's very similar to my fight.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">No, Cuba is not for everyone. It's for those travelers who want to be stretched and taken out of their comfort zone. For those who are seeking an experience unlike any other. For those who want to experience a culture unlike their own. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">If you have questions about Cuba, let me know. I have a lot of friends who have been to Havana and a few friends who have traveled around the country. I even have a friend who is transitioning to a full time life in Havana! So If I don't know the answer, I will get it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="color: black;">Click </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/2girlsbikini/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1455602384467729" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;">HERE</span></a><span style="color: black;"> to see pics from my 2016 trip.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Happy Travels Everyone!</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">Angela</span><br />
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-80812320591354793802018-06-11T16:47:00.001-05:002018-06-11T16:47:22.350-05:00Note To Self....SAT DOWN!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr5zR6A4urtsb0RwmdR5ewAHTyU4tQQP0s-1NOW0yQ3nD32IEDPorVU302wrFfNJRAOiHIn_YNR3Q4JIJXKj83HIlro6rwaZ0ZcGhS7CyKIponeGmkIcutuyBFZ32lJXwA1e54ua0V5V4/s1600/cancelled+trip.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="1238" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr5zR6A4urtsb0RwmdR5ewAHTyU4tQQP0s-1NOW0yQ3nD32IEDPorVU302wrFfNJRAOiHIn_YNR3Q4JIJXKj83HIlro6rwaZ0ZcGhS7CyKIponeGmkIcutuyBFZ32lJXwA1e54ua0V5V4/s640/cancelled+trip.png" width="640" /></a></div>
Sooooo - if you follow me on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/2girlsbikini/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Facebook </a>or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/2girls_bikini/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, you probably already know I did too much in 2017. I mean, I was celebrating my "Year of 50" and it was more than I could have ever imagined.<br />
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I started the year off in Puerto Vallarta (my yearly family trip), and then I went to Barcelona and Rome, and then I headed to Greece (Athens, Santorini and Crete), and I finished the year off - and my actual birthday - in Jordan (Amman, Mt. Nebo, Wadi Rum, Dead Sea, Bethany Beyond Jordan, and of course PETRA) and Egypt (Cairo and Luxor).<br />
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Whew....I'm tired just thinking back on it all.<br />
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Going into 2018, I had a few things lined up: Playa del Carmen in January (yearly family trip), Singapore and Malaysia in February, Haiti in April.....I looked at my travel budget, and BAM..it hit me. Not only did I really enjoy my 2017, but I was OVER EXTENDED!<br />
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I honestly hadn't paid too much attention to the amount of money I spent to celebrate my "Year of 50", I was just enjoying life, being in the moment, YOLO, and all of that; but when I sat down at the end of the year to reconcile my travel account, I realized that I had already dipped into 2018 cash! #OhMy<br />
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I was shook and I had some decisions to make: do I continue #SpendingAhead and hope my travel savings account could keep up, do I travel on credit, or do I simply CANCEL some of my upcoming travel plans?<br />
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I knew I couldn't continue spending from my travel savings account when what was coming in couldn't cover all of what was going out. I couldn't even cover hotel costs and the flight from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur with the cash I had in the account, which would mean using a credit card - which would mean another monthly payment - which would mean less money going into the savings account - which would mean using a credit card for my Haitian trip - which would mean a higher monthly payment - which would mean less going into the savings account - UUUUGGG<br />
HHHHH, it's a vicious cycle. One that I couldn't see myself living, and eventually losing sleep over.<br />
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I had to have a conversation with myself, and myself said to me: SAT DOWN! It hurt, I won't even lie; but I went ahead and cancelled my flights to Singapore and Port-au-Prince. I shed real TTT (TravelThugTears). But it's what I had to do. #TravelButDontGoInDebt is my motto and I don't believe in coming home from a vacation and being hit with the burden of paying off credit card balances incurred on vacation. It kinda takes the joy away and for me, the memories will be wrapped around "how much was that excursion?". So I don't do it.<br />
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I have since recovered, emotionally. And my travel savings account is rebounding nicely. I took a quick trip to Havana (which is very affordable) for a friend's wedding (couldn't be missed) and in a couple of weeks I am headed to Cartagena. I have a flight to Madrid in August and was planning to travel around Morocco. I'm not so sure that will happen. I'll be sure and let y'all know if I make that trip!<br />
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Until next time travel friends!<br />
<br />
Angela<br />
Founder<br />
2 Girls & a Bikini</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-70372361087290313642018-01-19T10:58:00.001-06:002018-01-19T10:58:33.431-06:00What the Travel Gods taught me in Greece...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
Ok so....I've been doing this travel thing for a few years now. And
for each trip, I plan a detailed itinerary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Now, I don’t necessary feel the need to stick to everything on that itinerary;
but I do like having a plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lMMCJ0-uk_MnwJcyyTlBqoMGxoHe8UDhLSCeSzJkgh7ZRX7ak8CGdM0LtYX-9e6H9zxClMtw8Sv4RZND5_wJw8Qx4O81j1OIo2f0tOfFN2Oub_RHksWy9JAy_hI7StPCYCjFlXbNkwc/s1600/Greece+Itinerary2_Page_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1237" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0lMMCJ0-uk_MnwJcyyTlBqoMGxoHe8UDhLSCeSzJkgh7ZRX7ak8CGdM0LtYX-9e6H9zxClMtw8Sv4RZND5_wJw8Qx4O81j1OIo2f0tOfFN2Oub_RHksWy9JAy_hI7StPCYCjFlXbNkwc/s320/Greece+Itinerary2_Page_1.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
My itinerary will always include items like my hotel info, transportation
info, confirmation numbers or any tours booked, and information on all of the
sites I would like to see/things I would like to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s always very detailed - the Greece Itinerary was 3 pages long!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a matter of fact, I’ve been told that I
should sell my itineraries because of the time and energy I spend creating them
(I’m still thinking about that).<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Anyway…..my Greece itinerary was no different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We (my sister and I) traveled to Athens,
Santorini and Crete.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The itinerary had
all info needed and I was feeling confident that I had “dotted all of my Is and
crossed all of my Ts”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had planned
many itineraries, even itineraries for friends/family members for trips I wasn’t
going on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am a beast at Itinerary
Planning!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Each day was planned, including free time and beach days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We flew to Athens, did everything on the
itinerary, had an amazing time:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BAM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We flew to Santorini, did everything on the
itinerary, had an amazing time:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BAM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We took a ferry to Crete, got into a taxi,
showed the driver the itinerary with the hotel address (another good reason to
have a detailed itinerary) and he said “that will be about €100”!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>WHAT?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>#RecordScratch<br />
<br />
You see, I hadn’t done my research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
assumed Crete was just “another Greek island”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I didn’t realize that it was actually the LARGEST and MOST POPULOUS of
the islands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The island is 160 miles long
and its widest point is 37 miles. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
actually the 88<sup>th</sup> largest island in the world!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I.Had.No.Idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
So there we are at the ferry port, it’s about 7pm, and our hotel is 40 miles
- or approximately €100 - away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we had
to make a decision.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do we walk away from
the reservation we had already paid for and try and find another hotel closer
to the port?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or do we just pay the taxi
ride and stick to the itinerary?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
Itinerary Building Ego tells me to stick to the magnificence that is the
itinerary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So off we go….<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We arrive safely to the hotel in Agios Nikolaos and while it was not bad, it
was not Heraklion and that is where our activities for the next 2 days were.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we walk around the town, get some dinner, and
decide to book a hotel for the next night in Heraklion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We also decided to take a bus back to that
area because spending another €100 for a cab wasn’t going to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had to chalk up the second night hotel
because it was prepaid – but fine – sunken costs.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We arrive at our Heraklion hotel the next day before noon and now we are
back on track.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We continue on with
planned itinerary and everything is good with the world.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The next morning, I went online to look at our flight back to Athens and I
for some reason I thought it said 5:05pm but the itinerary said 8:05pm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Could there be a typo on the itinerary?!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tried to get someone on the phone from the
airline but there was no local number to call and the “Chat with a
Representative” option was closed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So we
decided to simply be safe and arrive at the airport early.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We spent our last hours in Greece relaxing on the beach – which by the way
cost us €60 RT in a taxi because, well because we are beach boogie and we
wanted the “best” beach in the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get
back to the hotel, grab our luggage and head to HER airport.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We arrive at the airport tanned and happy, only to find out that our flight
back to ATH did not leave from Heraklion airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As a matter of fact, our airline didn’t even
have flights to/from HER!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I’m
standing there, listening to a very nice lady at the information booth tell me
that I needed to get to Chania International Airport (CHQ) and that it’s at
least 3 hours away, I could feel my Itinerary Ego falling away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ahhhhh – the Travel Gods were laughing hard
at this point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would never make it
there for a 5:05pm flight. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
My sister and I considered simply purchasing a flight on another airline out
of HER for a cost of $174, but instead we sat down, called the airline and
confirmed our departure time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was
8:05pm – YEA ITINERARY!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We grabbed our
luggage and headed out of the HER airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We jumped into a cab, told the driver where we needed to go, he told us
€150.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I laughed and told my sister “I
got it” and we were on our way (after a stop at the ATM).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
During the ride, I quietly thanked the Travel Gods (American, Delta and
United) for the flight time mix up because without it, we certainly would have
missed that flight, causing us to miss our flight the next day back to Chicago.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I realized that in Crete alone, we spent over €300 in taxis because of my
assumptions:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that it was a small island,
that everything was close, that there was only one airport on the island.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t do my typical research.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t look at any maps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I didn’t use my resources (friends, the
internet, Facebook groups, etc.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I told
myself “you got this” but Crete actually GOT ME! <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Whew – Lesson Learned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And while I
will still create detailed itineraries because part of the excitement for me is
in the planning, I won’t let my ego stop me from taking the time to get all the
details I can about the destination I am traveling to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I won’t let assumptions cause me to take
shortcuts that end up costing me the equivalent of a flight to another
destination.<o:p></o:p><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4r5wJjhG6dDPme6nLW1NVGxw1jhyCrVt8ptCsmbyFDrJ1I-fydNltirAp7Zr-GBugq0MDHJ9D4hQXGcvkxM8F4xvLNoyM-b5UQ-G5RdcM6dHCUwLKRy8TCmaLvAFA2hCFSnTzG84IOU4/s1600/us+two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4r5wJjhG6dDPme6nLW1NVGxw1jhyCrVt8ptCsmbyFDrJ1I-fydNltirAp7Zr-GBugq0MDHJ9D4hQXGcvkxM8F4xvLNoyM-b5UQ-G5RdcM6dHCUwLKRy8TCmaLvAFA2hCFSnTzG84IOU4/s320/us+two.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and My Sister on our ATV ride around Santorini!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
By the way, Greece was amazing!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
history in Athens, the sunset in Santorini, and even Crete turned out to be enjoyable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check out all of my pictures on my Facebook
page by clicking <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/2girlsbikini/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1747381655289799"><span style="color: blue;">HERE</span></a>!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Get out there and go my friends! There are some good deals floating around.<br />
<br />
<br />
Angela Myers<br />
Founder, 2 Girls & a Bikini<br />
<br />
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-17642048474891774672017-06-24T19:32:00.004-05:002017-06-24T19:33:32.262-05:00My MVP<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNajxGZIy3afuU0a7Mva5FW65ptJB5_JrwMa8JpaLtLCFId0J0YbK8XzWEdpl0AzJ-WjvI9BnKephwW5Fr7ulZ2dkupstHZsPQ7CO4scmqcEeJaugQrfDu4282WGMsVWbCIt5OgFQEF0/s1600/IMG_7219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNajxGZIy3afuU0a7Mva5FW65ptJB5_JrwMa8JpaLtLCFId0J0YbK8XzWEdpl0AzJ-WjvI9BnKephwW5Fr7ulZ2dkupstHZsPQ7CO4scmqcEeJaugQrfDu4282WGMsVWbCIt5OgFQEF0/s320/IMG_7219.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvWsegkY_MKp4Sq5lCVcJGRxKg9B1pvGi7QwZU7YLqpHXdBp-Y9CfH_7uQ0Hd65lIB6FO0UHa7GjS2jPfiARhkXmLtY1NQ1e2A8b5O1hp7_MdBwCiiNUw1-rOHeD1jzNCcfN-wM30WJc/s1600/IMG_7219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>I have a wall of cork in my closet. It's my "Memory Board". It's different from a vision board because it holds things I want to remember, things I want to hold close. And since I see the Memory Board on a daily basis, things that make me smile.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvWsegkY_MKp4Sq5lCVcJGRxKg9B1pvGi7QwZU7YLqpHXdBp-Y9CfH_7uQ0Hd65lIB6FO0UHa7GjS2jPfiARhkXmLtY1NQ1e2A8b5O1hp7_MdBwCiiNUw1-rOHeD1jzNCcfN-wM30WJc/s1600/IMG_7219.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
<div>
</div>
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There are post cards that I mailed to myself from a favorite destination on the board, as well as tickets into shows or attractions. There are pictures of people and places. There are train passes and boarding passes. A mini book my daughter wrote me. my ticket into Angkor Wat. Anything that invokes a positive memory can make it up on the board.<br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><br />
Sometimes I take things off the board and spend time with it and the memory. I laugh. I cry. I remember. I put it back on the board.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5bMd694D1TY91IUinKlPwDLZCdGXX0_oSZy7AyWf1e6KX7QekIFLIg6cBpZGMXA2P78OAtWfkW3Zfi_gA-NYNYZgeoTx-720qFmT2fQtBW-78ci1mNWGWb-Id-WCrl292NWc3gFr3QKI/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5bMd694D1TY91IUinKlPwDLZCdGXX0_oSZy7AyWf1e6KX7QekIFLIg6cBpZGMXA2P78OAtWfkW3Zfi_gA-NYNYZgeoTx-720qFmT2fQtBW-78ci1mNWGWb-Id-WCrl292NWc3gFr3QKI/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="240" /></a>But there is one thing on the board that I value most: My Mom's Passport. It's my MVP (Most Valuable Possession). I look at it often and admire her stamps. It doesn't have very many stamps in it because my Mom passed away before she could make all of her travel dreams come true - and that's what makes it so valuable. It serves as a constant reminder that NOW is the time. Time To Go. Time To Do. Time To Be.</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcerOOYINPs-J4V0nPryif0bJ4infwbvGvPWeFFwQUu2KqCgzbsHdZThHnmHp9G_zsiFI95u_JwELEMxX9f-lMnch0GgVcU0xL_eMv6pdQ3z_0B4CTcpNjXi2qDSZ6oGkspO94_IGyFM/s1600/IMG_7226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcerOOYINPs-J4V0nPryif0bJ4infwbvGvPWeFFwQUu2KqCgzbsHdZThHnmHp9G_zsiFI95u_JwELEMxX9f-lMnch0GgVcU0xL_eMv6pdQ3z_0B4CTcpNjXi2qDSZ6oGkspO94_IGyFM/s320/IMG_7226.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcerOOYINPs-J4V0nPryif0bJ4infwbvGvPWeFFwQUu2KqCgzbsHdZThHnmHp9G_zsiFI95u_JwELEMxX9f-lMnch0GgVcU0xL_eMv6pdQ3z_0B4CTcpNjXi2qDSZ6oGkspO94_IGyFM/s1600/IMG_7226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
It reminds me that tomorrow is not promised to anyone. That I can't wait until (the kids are gone, the condo is paid off, retirement) to go to (Angkor Wat, the Colosseum, Greece). It reminds me that time is the most precious thing I have. My Mom's Passport is my Passport to live my dreams.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
What are you waiting for? #TravelOften<br />
<br />
Angela Myers<br />
Founder<br />
2 Girls & a Bikini<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-46923373234810396842017-05-24T14:19:00.003-05:002017-05-24T14:19:52.199-05:00When FAR AWAY Isn't Really FAR!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
Hey Travel Friends!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I recently attended a baby shower that was about an hour drive from my
home. Let me tell you that as I've gotten older, driving has become my
LEAST favorite activity. I would have rather taken an UBER, but that
wasn't practical, so I gassed up the convertible, picked up a friend and
hit the road.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The drive took us through some ritzy neighborhoods, and while I was enjoying
the conversation and looking at massive homes thinking "Who Lives
There?", an amazing structure caught our attention. My friend
exclaimed: It's The Bahai Temple! We were both in awe and
immediately agreed that after the baby shower, checking out the Temple was a
MUST.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZHuLFfToKyTByQJ68Ye595zbjNLLGSx1KrXgQ-t2gfaFrBAFb2d5K4-Lgcak-jD2ANDfQx2KGBTPNHgQDcoa4kpri0GYdkoU_IvyQeyT_fzF3cnTB07p2-EMDTDfs83k8laBrYyVA6E/s1600/IMG_6983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1ZHuLFfToKyTByQJ68Ye595zbjNLLGSx1KrXgQ-t2gfaFrBAFb2d5K4-Lgcak-jD2ANDfQx2KGBTPNHgQDcoa4kpri0GYdkoU_IvyQeyT_fzF3cnTB07p2-EMDTDfs83k8laBrYyVA6E/s320/IMG_6983.JPG" width="240" /></a>Now, I wasn't very familiar with the Bahá’í Faith; so I have to admit
that during the shower I did some reading. I learned that the temple
is one of eight dedicated temples of the Faith and that it is the OLDEST
surviving <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bah%C3%A1%27%C3%AD_House_of_Worship" title="Bahá'í House of Worship"><span style="color: blue;">Bahá'í House of Worship</span></a> in the world
(Wikipedia is your friend). During my reading, I learned that literature
of the Faith directs a House of Worship be built in each city and town, and
emphasizes that "its doors must be open to all regardless of religion, or
any other distinction". <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
It goes on to say "that the spirit of the House of Worship must be a
gathering place where people of all religions may worship God<sup> </sup>without denominational restrictions", and that "holy scriptures of the Bahá'í Faith and other religions can be read or chanted inside in any language; while readings and prayers may be set to music by choirs, no musical instruments may be played inside.Furthermore, no sermons may be delivered, and no
ritualistic ceremonies practiced.<sup>"</sup><br />
<br />
WOW…I was excited.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
We entered the visitors’ center for a moment and then walked out onto the
grounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Holding a conversation got
difficult as we were both in amazement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Temple, composed of a concrete mixture of cement and two types of
quartz, is a domed structure with nine pillars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The intricate detailing and architectural elements of other structures
from around the world took me to another place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I completely forgot that I was 45 minutes from home! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCUVhd4Piu5qWn4CWHHKIDah3ij9o5uRhapY47H6uFH977Mj79SeSYAQu-amm9gY30-UNUytMNcuHT8kEkCZXbGDp2GMUYzhyphenhyphen7aRWNASty7GFknKEKzT21XQs4trla4HAb5suIRmV1W3I/s1600/IMG_7004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCUVhd4Piu5qWn4CWHHKIDah3ij9o5uRhapY47H6uFH977Mj79SeSYAQu-amm9gY30-UNUytMNcuHT8kEkCZXbGDp2GMUYzhyphenhyphen7aRWNASty7GFknKEKzT21XQs4trla4HAb5suIRmV1W3I/s320/IMG_7004.JPG" width="320" /></a>Walking inside I immediately felt calm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I felt peaceful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt the
Spirit of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was all around
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wrapped myself in His light as I
read one of the beliefs of the Bahá’í Faith:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>there is one God whose existence is beyond our understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is the Creator of everything, and although
we may call him by different names – God or Yahweh, Allah, Brahma, or the Great
Spirit – we are speaking about the same loving Presence that has supported and
guided humanity throughout history.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
I sat for a moment in complete surrender to God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Full of gratefulness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankful for the silence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankful for the moment to just be.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
And as we walked out of the building, full of words that were unable to describe
the experience; we both knew that this was not a one-time visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We both knew that we would be back. Back to this place that felt far away - but isn't really far at all!<br />
<br />
Angie<br />
Founder, 2 Girls & a Bikini<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-78471302522177408352017-04-04T16:28:00.003-05:002017-04-04T16:29:59.573-05:00DIGIT....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">How I pay for my travels seem to be a common topic of
discussion among my friends, so I thought I would let you guys in on one of my <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">favorite</b> travel tricks:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><a href="https://digit.co/r/byjxi?wn"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">DIGIT</span></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">!
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt;">This is language directly from their website:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; letter-spacing: 0.1pt;">Digit is a journey aimed at refreshing the interactions between humans
and their money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bad financial habits
create unnecessary hardship that derail us from living our life to the fullest.
We believe we can help people avoid some of these hardships by combining recent
discoveries in behavioral psychology with technology.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">How does it work?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically
you give Digit permission to make withdrawals from your account and put it into
your savings account.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not a set
amount of cash, it will be random amounts of cash that they “</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-size: 14pt; letter-spacing: 0.1pt; line-height: 115%;">set
aside</span></i></b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">” for
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some things you should
know:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Digit
will “</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-size: 14pt; letter-spacing: 0.1pt; line-height: 115%;">analyze your income and spending, and find money it can
safely set aside for you</span></i></b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I gotta tell you, sometimes
the amounts are small but other times the amounts can be larger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But you will always have control.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can text them and tell them to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pause Saving</b>, or <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Speed Up</b>/<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Slow Down</b> your
savings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s completely up to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once they took over $20 out of my account a
few days in a row and I was like WHOA…a quick text and that was taken care of.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is what my Savings Journal looked like
recently:</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-g81pAdnzIUav8G4gTS83sGhHUbGn4MkkDIbju2nmkrC_vw7oOKb-754_T0aMxEOEeNyHSZqouyN6WS36c4JTeDqfSo6pyfq9O7glWBaxr0jn7UMKdHxtz-LU8xJIz66lEztcPxuomE/s1600/Savings+Journal.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd-g81pAdnzIUav8G4gTS83sGhHUbGn4MkkDIbju2nmkrC_vw7oOKb-754_T0aMxEOEeNyHSZqouyN6WS36c4JTeDqfSo6pyfq9O7glWBaxr0jn7UMKdHxtz-LU8xJIz66lEztcPxuomE/s640/Savings+Journal.png" width="460" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span></span><br />
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So some of these amounts are larger
than typical, but I have mine set to “save more” because I knew I was planning
for something.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">They
will never overdraft your account, they “</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: #00b050; font-size: 14pt; letter-spacing: 0.1pt; line-height: 115%;">never transfers more than
you can afford</span></i></b><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They actually have a no-overdraft guarantee.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">You
can access your savings anytime!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A quick
text message telling them how much you would like to transfer back to savings
and <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">voila</b>, your money is back in
your checking account the next business day.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So how do I use digit?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Usually I use it when planning for my longer trips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will allow the savings to build up and I
don’t touch it – at all – for any reason; not even for a shorter trip (I use my
travel account for smaller trips).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now
I’m not talking about saving for the flight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is the cash I use for things like excursions, train tickets/flights
to other cities/countries during the trip, food or even AirBnb/hotel
costs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For instance, below was my digit
balance yesterday:</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7dJsEKFfVygfAdUELpjcZO-fhCi7R1UIrVRdUjhEnh74MM8FoOPXOcJ2AUcRLaWLalDiUXTakFP82E8Gt08wazffvJApp3PQ_zz8HSVebToJk-7oFLHdMZ_2hyRwhWj7EqGmvPenoZBU/s1600/Digit.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7dJsEKFfVygfAdUELpjcZO-fhCi7R1UIrVRdUjhEnh74MM8FoOPXOcJ2AUcRLaWLalDiUXTakFP82E8Gt08wazffvJApp3PQ_zz8HSVebToJk-7oFLHdMZ_2hyRwhWj7EqGmvPenoZBU/s400/Digit.png" width="400" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I will
transfer $700 back into my checking account next week and start booking excursions
for my upcoming trip to Barcelona and Rome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I will also use this cash for food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a MUCH BETTER option (for me) than using credit cards.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">And there
you have it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">EASY </b>way to save some cash for your travels!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now #GetGoing!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Angie, Founder</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">2 Girls & A Bikini</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"></span> </div>
</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-48711765562035377242017-03-27T12:31:00.001-05:002017-04-04T16:30:26.196-05:00My 2016 Travels<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLwMuuxiHHLiTBWUxzdrYxsB6puxzj7wJkDtnhKl4opc7u-qaiXjDJBlknlaASK9gNnU7uGm28omWhwzgCFnZNKcv3cV6-w4-lJfzy4whv0TshBfRsRHWI12tvI1X2P70uUQ78JgcvJc/s1600/London.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXLwMuuxiHHLiTBWUxzdrYxsB6puxzj7wJkDtnhKl4opc7u-qaiXjDJBlknlaASK9gNnU7uGm28omWhwzgCFnZNKcv3cV6-w4-lJfzy4whv0TshBfRsRHWI12tvI1X2P70uUQ78JgcvJc/s320/London.png" width="320" /></a>Someone recently asked me for my favorite travel picture of 2016. So I started strolling through my 2016 folder and realized <span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>I don't have a favorite! </em></strong></span>So I mentally took a trip down memory lane: London, Guadeloupe, Bahamas (2x), South Korea/Vietnam/Cambodia, Playa del Carmen (of course) and Cuba. And for different reasons, <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>I loved each one of those trips!</i></b></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In London, my niece get her <b><i><span style="font-size: large;">first</span></i></b> passport stamp. I went to Guadeloupe with a good friend and her family to celebrate a birthday and it was a week full of <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>laughter</i></b></span>. In the Bahamas (the first time) I watched a friend marry the <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>love</i></b></span> of her life and (the second time) was a short cruise with a friend who really needed a break.</div>
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The trip to South Korea/Vietnam/Cambodia with my brother was a <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>dream </i></b></span>come true for me and I cried watching the sun rise at the temples of Angor Wat. Cuba was a last minute decision and turned into a wonderful <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>surprise</i></b></span>.</div>
The best part? I have <b><i><span style="font-size: large;">NO </span></i></b>travel debt - just memories. Sweet, Sweet <span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>MEMORIES</i></b></span>. And that's what it's all about.....<br />
<br />
See all of my 2016 Travel Pics on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/2girlsbikini" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a>!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-n2-nJiTDsv4hyphenhyphenwGSRJY3N1cj24WpKCfINOFrLrlHYZYbyFPDzwOogvuUCRTQdTA5GOxa5ZREjnNTgaR6dlefajEFFhg9gHFhcO5nSFTeIc0AD_Br07IvgQ2rwJFZZnWrIrZFVFp9ue0/s1600/Cambodia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-n2-nJiTDsv4hyphenhyphenwGSRJY3N1cj24WpKCfINOFrLrlHYZYbyFPDzwOogvuUCRTQdTA5GOxa5ZREjnNTgaR6dlefajEFFhg9gHFhcO5nSFTeIc0AD_Br07IvgQ2rwJFZZnWrIrZFVFp9ue0/s320/Cambodia.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Keep Traveling Friends~<br />
<br />
Angela<br />
2 Girls a Bikini<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><i>P</i></b><b><i>.S. - Want to know how I manage to travel debt free? Read the blog I wrote about it: <a href="http://2girlsbikini.blogspot.com/2012/10/how-i-afford-to-travel.html" target="_blank">How I Afford to Travel.</a></i></b><br />
<strong><em></em></strong><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-72940260367573394202017-01-30T21:11:00.001-06:002017-01-30T21:11:43.979-06:00My Thoughts On Cuba!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">It’s
AMAZING. That sums up my thoughts. It might be my new, less than a
5 hour flight, favorite destination. I need a few more trips to
decide. But here are some things I want you to know:</span><span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Don’t overthink the Visa. Select the category and make sure
all of your paperwork is in order. I selected Educational
Activities/People-to-People. I had each day on my itinerary all typed up
and my activities planned. While I was there, I met a girl who is a Professor
at a major University, so she selected Professional Research. So be sure
and select the category that applies to you and stick to it. Most
importantly - don't LIE. To review the 12 categories, click </span><span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://insightcuba.com/blog/2015/07/31/the-12-categories-of-approved-us-travel-to-cuba"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">here</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Currently, American credit and debit cards are not accepted
anywhere. So take MORE cash than you anticipate needing because the small
things will add up. I converted USD to Euro and converted to CUC as
needed. Also, some of the stores accepted Euro – but no one will accept
USD.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Havana has 4 neighborhoods: Old Havana, Centro Habana,
Vedado and Miramar. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px 72px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Old Havana, which is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where the
colonial history is located. LOTS of walking and where I wish I had spent
more time. So much to see. The architecture is old and
beautiful. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px 72px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Centro Habana is Havana from the early 20<sup>th</sup> century and
where you can find the Museum of the Revolution, which is also the former
Presidential Palace. I did a tour of the Museum, it was interesting, but
can be skipped if you are short on time. The neighborhood is interesting
and worth a walk around.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Especially for
the photographers.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px 72px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Vedado is where the Malecon (sea front promenade) begins and where
the National Hotel is located. This is also where Revolution Square can
be found along with the large iron sculptures of Che and Camilo Cienfuegos
mounted on the side of 2 buildings. There is also the Jose Marti
Memorial, where you can take an elevator to the top for a view of the
city. Also be sure and check out Columbus Cemetery where many famous
individuals are buried.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 66px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px 72px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Miramar is an exclusive residential area and where most foreign
embassies are located. </span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">The art scene is bananas. Art and Galleries everywhere. You
can’t see them all. Don’t try. Take your time to enjoy the ones you
do see and go back to see the others. But a must is Fábrica de Arte
Cubano (FAC) </span><i><u><span style="color: blue; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">fabricadeartecubano.com</span></u></i><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">. It’s an old oil factory
that has been converted to an arts space. There are dance lessons, live
music, beautiful art, and a DJ. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">The “classic car” game is real. They are everywhere, and
they are beautiful. I paid 25CUC for a one hour ride around the city in a
1957 pink convertible. But I did a 6 hour tour of the city in a hard top
classic car that was air conditioned. It was more comfortable and I
didn’t have to smell diesel for 6 hours. I booked this tour through </span><span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="http://havanajourneys.com/en"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">Havana Journeys</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">. They were
great. Very knowledgeable and patient - because I'm sure me and my
daughter were asking a LOT of questions.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">Wifi is scarce. I didn’t bother buying a wifi card and
searching for wifi signals. I went to a local hotel a couple of nights to
check in with friends and family. I paid 10CUC for an hour and that was
enough for me.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">People, People, People are everywhere. And they are
friendly. And they want to talk to you. So if you don’t speak
Spanish, be sure and download the Google Translate app that doesn’t require
internet. Everyone I met was familiar with typing in what they wanted to
say and waiting on you to type in your response. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">You will dance, because music is a big part of the culture.
Calle Obispo is a great place to find bars where you can find good food, great
Mojitos – and of course MUSIC.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 0px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">I’m not a foodie – but the lobster I ate was the best lobster I’ve
ever had. Once on the beach and once at a local restaurant that I went to
with a friend and the family she was staying with. And it was very
affordable. I ate lobster twice. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 11px 48px; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt "Times New Roman"; margin: 0px;">
</span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">My favorite spot of the trip was </span><span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;"><a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g147271-d2461860-Reviews-Fusterlandia-Havana_Ciudad_de_la_Habana_Province_Cuba.html"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">Fusterlandia</span></a></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; margin: 0px;">. I even got an
opportunity to meet the artist, Jose Fuster. This is a MUST DO.</span></div>
<span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">There are lots of blogs and books available for you to read - so
take your time and do so. I took day trips to Vinales and Varadero
(beautiful beach). I booked both tours via</span><span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;"> <a href="http://tourhavanawithroly.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">Tour Havana With Roly</span></a>.
I contacted Roly using his Facebook page and he is very responsive.</span><br />
<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">That’s all I will say about my time in Cuba.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>It’s truly a place you have to see to
believe.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span>Meanwhile, my pictures can be
found on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1455602384467729.1073741843.225894437438536&type=1&l=860b628160"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">Facebook</span></a>
page.<span style="margin: 0px;"> </span></span><br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">See you in the skies!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #2c2c2c; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%; margin: 0px;">Angela</span></div>
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-82789058075028591082016-11-25T11:16:00.003-06:002016-11-25T11:28:39.264-06:00My "Year of 50!"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6ogNGJ9xoRw0MTNbZF1ChZcs_G7Ad0I518zzpQIVsRRo880zlP9CsyRA2Po3lgSMgpt73YIX-Fn-XkhLI7fKU2CxWTvwlFf4xJXTgZY5oWHOdaDrfnrQjLDEvhRZlWTaZMbfISTajmI/s1600/bday2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6ogNGJ9xoRw0MTNbZF1ChZcs_G7Ad0I518zzpQIVsRRo880zlP9CsyRA2Po3lgSMgpt73YIX-Fn-XkhLI7fKU2CxWTvwlFf4xJXTgZY5oWHOdaDrfnrQjLDEvhRZlWTaZMbfISTajmI/s640/bday2.gif" width="388" /></a></div>
Soooooo,<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yesterday was my 49th birthday (YaY Me!). Now, I have to tell you, I have not been very excited about the idea of turning 50. But a few months ago I came up with the idea of celebrating my birthday for the entire year leading up to this monumental birthday. So I put together a list of places I would love to go and things I would love to see. I decided to top off the celebration with an epic trip to Africa with family and friends.</div>
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</div>
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I talked to some people about this idea, and as you can imagine, I encountered some serious #SideEye moments. I heard things like "you're crazy" or "that won't happen". Last week I talked to a financial advisor about some financial goals and even he told me that I should scale my "Year Of 50!" dreams down a bit. </div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So I was bummed and they had me reworking my plans. But Lookie - Lookie at what #PepsiCo told me in a birthday email. Who knew such inspiration could come via junk mail from my sugary lover?</div>
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I now have new a sense of determination. I will <strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">LIVE</span></em></strong> life. I will make <strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">MY</span></em></strong> travel dreams come true. I will <strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">EXPLORE</span></em></strong> new destinations. I will make <strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">NEW</span></em></strong> friends. I will <strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">LEARN</span></em></strong> new things. I will have amazing <span style="font-size: large;"><strong><em>EXPERIENCES</em></strong>.</span> </div>
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</div>
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I don't have all the pieces in place, and I don't know if I want them there. All I know is that today is the first day of my journey. </div>
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Join Me!!</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Angela Myers</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Founder</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2 Girls & a Bikini</div>
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</div>
</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-85603883451816872102016-11-08T11:20:00.002-06:002016-11-09T09:02:12.701-06:00Whoot-Whoot: It's Election Day!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Happy Election Day 2016!!</h1>
<br />
Today is the day that our country will elect its 45th President. Along with all 435 voting-member seats in the United States House of Representatives, and 34 of the 100 seats in the United States Senate, twelve state governorships, two territorial governorships, and numerous other state and local elections! WoW.....<br />
<br />
Now, I'm not here to tell you WHO to vote for. I'm just here as a reminder to VOTE. And when you are done voting, do what I did and book a flight! You don't have to go far - or spend lots of cash. Scanning <a href="http://www.theflightdeal.com/" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">The Flight Deal</a> this morning, I saw: <br />
<ul>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">Philadelphia to Rome for less than $500</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">New York to Chicago for less than $100</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">Los Angeles to Peru for less than $400</li>
<li style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; mso-line-height-rule: exactly;">Seattle to New Orleans for less than $300</li>
</ul>
And there are plenty more deals out there!<br />
<br />
I'm here to encourage you to travel to all the places your heart desires. Go visit friends/family in other cities/countries. Go and actually see that landmark that has been your screensaver for way too long. Go sit on a beach, or in a museum. Take a double decker bus tour. Hop on a train, a boat, a scooter. Take a solo journey. Or grab a group of friends - and just go!<br />
<br />
Yesterday, I lost a friend. A friend that I met while I was traveling through Thailand. He lived his life with no regrets and traveled the world with no fear. Today, I want to be a little more like him. Today I want all of us to be a little more like him.<br />
<br />
Travel Safe My Friends.....<br />
<br />
Angie<br />
Founder, 2 Girls & A Bikini</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-25114821166336636482016-10-21T15:40:00.002-05:002016-10-21T15:40:41.488-05:00I Loved "Chicken Pizza"!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Everyone knows that I love the Cancun/ Riviera Maya area of
Mexico.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean really, I LOVE IT.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If anyone comes to me looking for a quick,
inexpensive, beautiful beach vacation – they are going to get sent directly to
the Cancun airport.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of my first
blogs was actually titled “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://2girlsbikini.blogspot.com/2011/10/my-name-is-angie-and-im-cancun-addict.html"><span style="color: blue;">I’m
a Cancun Addict</span></a></i>”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMe9BLh7YY7U3vXVEYiNVFR21KjPX2OtTLw-cKbt8ayHe7xRacRIRUAVvoKRop8bcbHZnCy4oupsUD7hjHGF3ZDHT2JDGE0rMIdo6ZotIAnHY9SNZIw5ERm6mVi5FdsmPOFUO5GtURoo/s1600/IMG_3820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFMe9BLh7YY7U3vXVEYiNVFR21KjPX2OtTLw-cKbt8ayHe7xRacRIRUAVvoKRop8bcbHZnCy4oupsUD7hjHGF3ZDHT2JDGE0rMIdo6ZotIAnHY9SNZIw5ERm6mVi5FdsmPOFUO5GtURoo/s320/IMG_3820.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">So it surprised even me when I couldn’t remember if I had
ever been to </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;">Chichén Itzá!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">I mean really, it’s the #1 tour in the
area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Which is why on my most recent
trip, I booked a 5am tour via </span><a href="http://www.amigotours.com.mx/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">Amigo
Tours</span></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";">. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First, let me say that I have
not been compensated in any way for this write-up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I only mentioned the tour group because our
guide was absolutely AMAZING.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He knew so
much about the Mayan People and the history of the area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During our LONG bus ride, we learned about the
culture, the people, the language ……his lesson even had pictures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Which go a long way when it’s barely 8am and
you are asking yourself “why am I here?”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I went to </span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 20pt; line-height: 115%;">Chichén Itzá </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">knowing
a few things:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> <!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: small;">It’s</span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> a UNESCO World Heritage site<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">It’s one of the most popular archaeological
sites in Mexico<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">It’s very old.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Like built before Christ old<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">There’s a cenote on the grounds that was once
used for human sacrifice (I don’t even know why I knew that).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Now, I have seen the ruins of Tulum many times and so I was
expecting a similar experience.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But there
were a few things during the tour that amazed me:<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">The largest temple, The Temple of Kukulkan (aka
El Castillo) is now one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Its 90-feet tall with stairways on each of
the four sides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each stairway has 91
steps, which total 364.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When you add the
platform step that they share at the top, it totals 365; the number of days in
a year. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who did the math?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And why?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And the stones look as if they weigh a ton – each.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How were those stones carried up 91 steps?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Our guide stood in the center of the staircase, at
the bottom of the largest temple and clapped his hands.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>An echo came from the top of the temple that
sounded like the chirping of a sacred bird.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But if he moved a few steps to the right or to the left – no chirping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Back to the center – chirping.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Crazy right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">There is a Ball Court where they played with a
rubber ball that was very heavy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>During
the game, players had to keep the heavy ball in motion, but get this:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the captain of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">winning</i></b> team (the team
who got their ball through the stone ring on the opposing players’ part of the
courtyard) was sacrificed to the gods!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>HuH?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well as it turns out, his victory made him “a
fitting offering”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>#BlankStare<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt 0.5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Another interesting fact about the Ball
Court:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can stand on one end and whisper
softly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Individuals at the other end WILL
HEAR YOU.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I mean clearly hear what you
are saying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Ball Court is over 500
feet long!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is believed this was used
as some sort of eavesdropping technique. Also, a clap or shout made in the
center of the ball court will produce nine separate echoes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The number nine has some significant meaning
in this culture but I wasn’t paying any attention to my guide at that
point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was still stuck on the snooping
abilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">It became very clear to me very quickly that these were some
very smart, very sophisticated people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They were skilled farmers and created a written language that is
believed to be the first written language native to the Americans.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They were also mathematicians and their
number system included the concept of zero, which was an idea not known to the
Greeks – who were considered “expert mathematicians” at that time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Maya were also highly skilled potters,
weavers, sculptors and jewelers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>AND
they had trade networks!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The tour was a total of 3 hours, not including travel time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was back in Playa
del Carmen by 3pm and at my </span><a href="http://www.micasaholiday.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: "calibri";">Mi Casa
Holiday</span></a><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> beach party by 4pm.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">One last thing: at the bottom of the northern stairway of El Castillo, there
are stone heads of a serpent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many
people travel to the site during the vernal and autumnal equinoxes to
experience how the sun’s light and the edges of the stairs create a shadow
which, very briefly, creates the look of a snake moving down the Temple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hmmmm,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I checked and the equinoxes occur around March and September 21!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are your plans?! #LetsGo<br />
<br />
See all of my pictures on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/2girlsbikini" target="_blank">Facebook </a>page!<br />
<br />
Happy Traveling!<br />
<br />
Angie<br />
Founder, 2 Girls and A Bikini<br />
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-4065246085025531362016-09-19T19:08:00.003-05:002016-09-20T13:29:55.054-05:00Cruisin...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Some people love cruises. Take my brother. He has been on two, 7 Day cruises
- <em>THIS YEAR</em>. But he also went with me on my Vietnam/Cambodia trip - so I'll
give him a pass.<o:p></o:p><br />
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Me? I'm not a cruiser. It just doesn't interest me. So how did I find myself sitting on the
balcony of a cabin ON a cruise ship? Easy. My desire to help
everyone <span style="font-size: 18pt;"><strong><em>"get out there and see the
world"</em></strong><span style="font-size: small;">.</span></span><br />
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Here's where it started........<o:p></o:p><br />
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People are always saying "you don't invite me when you travel", so
I invite them they say "that's out of my budget". Sigh.
So since people tell me that cruising is affordable and that payment plans are
available, my <strong><span style="font-size: 24pt;">desire</span> </strong>encouraged
me to say "let's take a cruise". So I chose the dates, and the
shortest cruise available. I sent out some invitations, got some takers and we were all set.<br />
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I put down my deposit and created my flight alert. A few other people put down their deposit and I got excited because I was
thinking "YES. WE ARE TAKING A TRIP!" Months passed, I
sent out encouraging emails (they all ended with YaY), we talked about how much
fun we were going to have, I purchased a flight and waited.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And waited…..AND WAITED.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I stopped sending encouraging emails and
started sending emails that ended with “are you taking this &*$&#
cruise?”<o:p></o:p><br />
So let's see. I'm now on a <strong><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 24pt;">3 Day</span></i></strong> cruise to the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bahamas</b> (where I have already been this
year for a wedding, but I digress) with my “I will travel anywhere” daughter and
a friend who has never left the country. I’m sitting on the balcony adding
up my affordable cruise:<o:p></o:p><br />
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Cruise:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$450 (includes transportation to the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bahamas</b>, lodging, around the clock
unlimited food - including ice cream, movies, live shows, clubs, casino and
other activities)<o:p></o:p></div>
Flight:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$220<br />
Car Rental:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$90 (this was cheaper than each of us paying
for round-trip transportation)<o:p></o:p><br />
Parking:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$40<o:p></o:p><br />
Gas: $20<o:p></o:p><br />
Misc (internet, drinks on cruise,
food/drinks on island):<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>$75<o:p></o:p><br />
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So, my <strong><span style="font-size: 24pt;">desire</span></strong> to help
everyone <em><b><span style="font-size: 18pt;">"get out there and see the
world"</span></b></em> cost me approximately $900. That’s an average cost
of $300/day……hmmmmm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve planned
longer, more exciting (for me) vacations for half the cost; but what hurt me
the most was the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u>2 vacation</u></i>
days I lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
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When I returned, I spent some time with myself, and we have come to an agreement. People
who want to travel, well, will <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">TRAVEL</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t have to invite them, I don’t have to encourage
them (YaY), I don’t have to plan specialty trips for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will get out there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And they will see the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
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P.S. – my friend did get her <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 15pt;">FIRST</span></i></b>
passport stamp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is the only picture
I saved!<br />
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<span id="goog_1295231215"></span><span id="goog_1295231216"></span><o:p>Happy Travels Everyone~</o:p><br />
<o:p></o:p><br />
<o:p>Angie</o:p><br />
<o:p>2 Girls & A Bikini</o:p></div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-20979765955751664102016-08-01T15:09:00.005-05:002016-08-01T15:09:43.136-05:00Do You REALLY Want To Go?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hey There Family & Friends,<br /> <br /> Whew - it's hot! Yes, even too hot for me! But please don't take that as a complaint, it's simply a statement because if you know me - you know I love the sun (and the heat). So bring it on!<br /> <br /> Anywho....I have been running into some really good flight deals to Asia. Specifically Hong Kong and Beijing in November (for my birthday). And I placed a couple of flights on hold (using American Airlines and Cathay Pacific 24 hour hold), but I didn't commit. Why? I don't know.<br /> <br /> I got really excited about going to Beijing and seeing the Great Wall of China, but I didn't pull the trigger. I thought about how exciting it would be to see Kowloon Walled City and Tian Tan Buddha in Hong Kong, and I still didn't pull the trigger. </div>
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I sent a few emails and text messages to some other travelers, extending an invite; but most of my travel friends already have plans for the Thanksgiving holiday. So I kinda gave up. And then I thought about it and realized I have a FEAR of solo travel! </div>
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I know, I know. I have people telling me that I haven't traveled until I've traveled alone. They tell me that I will meet great people and learn a lot about myself. They say things like "your time will be your own" and "after traveling alone, you won't travel with a group again". </div>
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<br /> And maybe that's what I'm afraid of. Dumping my group. I mean, I love my friends, friends-of-friends, family, co-workers, Facebook friends, etc. And these are the people that make my travels fun and exciting. Aren't they?</div>
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So I've had to ask myself, "Do You Really Want To Go?". Do I really want to pass up the opportunity to see some amazing places and knock some things off the must see/do list just because I feel as if no one will be there to capture me being great? Or do I go and simply BE GREAT anyway? And where is this fear of traveling alone coming from?</div>
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Hmmmm....I've got some {deep} thinking to do. </div>
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Meanwhile, it's been an exciting travel year. Most interesting? I went to Cambodia (talk about HOT). Seeing the Angkor Wat temple blew me away. The sunrise changed my life. I also went to Vietnam. You can see my pictures on my <a href="http://www.facebook.com/2GIRLSBIKINI" style="-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%; color: #2baadf; font-weight: normal; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a>. And if you haven't already, give it a LIKE.<br /><br /> I promise to write more this year and keep you guys updated on my birthday travel decision.<br /><br /> Keep Traveling~<br /><br /> Angie<br /> Founder<br /> 2 Girls & A Bikini</div>
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-68874402007016780552016-06-09T09:40:00.000-05:002016-06-09T15:31:43.094-05:00What My GrandMa Said….<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Growing up, I spent a lot of time with my GrandMa. Like all Grandmothers, she had her “thing”. For instance, my girlfriend’s GrandMa would pin her cash to the inside of her bra. Another GrandMa I knew always had pennies in her coin purse, and she would give me a handful every time I saw her. A lot of my friends laugh at how their Grandmother would have peppermints inside their purse – FOREVER – the wrapper would be melted onto the candy, but she would still offer you one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>LOL. I’m sure with very little thought you can immediately tell me what your Grandmother’s “thing” was!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">My GrandMa’s thing was words. She would say things like “Close the refrigerator. I’m not trying to cool all outside!” or “I’m gonna whoop you until the lights go off downtown’. Yea – I never figured that one out. But as I grew up, my favorite became “The more you give, the more you get”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Now trust me, I didn’t believe these words originally. It wasn’t until a friend of mine said; “you are always giving something away” (this was after I gave her a very nice sleigh bed, which was practically brand new). So I begin to think about it and realized – I AM ALWAYS GIVING SOMETHING AWAY – yet I always seem to have more than enough! Now, let me say enough is relative. What’s enough for me may not be enough for you; but I can honestly say, I am living in my overflow. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Because of this, I always try and align myself with other individuals and/or organizations that also believe my GrandMa’s words of giving. One of these organizations, and my absolute favorite, is <span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: #0433ff; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.passportpartyproject.org/"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;">The Passport Party Project</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKzNhjj1zK06KE_8_gu-JR_v2oOq8sQzUj6C8mXVCTwXsOzaVOTND_Jao1ZSq0fazVxDx9v-uO1apSds2EwANKq1QlIk8f_Uw3zTeXyqXxEsJaxI2KE6z42de7dVLJnXvR_irA3m5u5Hc/s1600/ppp.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="51" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKzNhjj1zK06KE_8_gu-JR_v2oOq8sQzUj6C8mXVCTwXsOzaVOTND_Jao1ZSq0fazVxDx9v-uO1apSds2EwANKq1QlIk8f_Uw3zTeXyqXxEsJaxI2KE6z42de7dVLJnXvR_irA3m5u5Hc/s200/ppp.png" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">The Passport Party Project is a “<a href="http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/travelers-of-the-year-2013/tracey-friley/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0433ff;">National Geographic</span></a></span><span lang="EN" style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">award-winning initiative providing first passports, online global awareness training & first-time global travel experiences to underrepresented American girls 11-15 in an effort to help create responsive and responsible global citizens that travel with love.” This organization is headed up by <a href="http://www.instagram.com/traceyfriley" target="_blank">Tracey Friley</a>, aka The Pied Piper of Passports. I promise you I have never met anyone so passionate about giving. She genuinely<b> </b>loves it! And it shows in everything that she does. She gifts these young ladies an experience that very few will ever have, and even less will take advantage of if the opportunity came their way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">This year is Phase 3 of The Passport Party Project, and with the help of <a href="http://www.seetorontonow.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0433ff;">Tourism Toronto</span></a>, </span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: #0433ff; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.heys.ca/" target="_blank"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Heys Luggage</span></a>,<a href="http://www.niagaraparks.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;"> </span></a><a href="http://maps.national/" target="_blank"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;">National Geographic Maps</span></a>, <span class="MsoHyperlink"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.niagaraparks.com/"><span style="color: #0433ff;">Niagara Parks</span></a></span></span>, <a href="https://www.niagaracruises.com/" target="_blank"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Hornblower Niagara Cruises</span></a>, <a href="https://www.flyporter.com/Flight?culture=en-US" target="_blank"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Porter Airlines</span></a>, <a href="http://www.francescoslimousine.ca/"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;">Francesco's Limousine</span></a></span></span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"> and </span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: #0433ff; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="http://www.citypass.com/toronto"><span lang="EN" style="color: #0433ff; mso-ansi-language: EN;">CityP</span></a>ASS</span></span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">, Tracey and two college students (one of which has been traveling with Tracey since she was 11 years old)</span><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">will be escorting 15 Teen Travel Ambassadors to Toronto. After 6 weeks of online global awareness training, where the lucky travelers learned what it takes to be a Global Citizen, they are ready to pack their bags and head to the top of the CN Tower. Some of these young ladies will travel alone for a short distance by plane for the first time and perhaps even be away from home and/or travel as a group for the first time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3B6E_lgxciWjYtjedojccAs6QkT74Imw-YuQG_FCvH-oM7KtVgq9MZmpwKwfhMJNdES0xjhj6gHlBSnEB5MSNtNiCifYTTG9yYiAP244SeAEyJ95VOswoKo3AooghoxR3RXYd5ES0O0/s1600/destiny.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO3B6E_lgxciWjYtjedojccAs6QkT74Imw-YuQG_FCvH-oM7KtVgq9MZmpwKwfhMJNdES0xjhj6gHlBSnEB5MSNtNiCifYTTG9yYiAP244SeAEyJ95VOswoKo3AooghoxR3RXYd5ES0O0/s320/destiny.png" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">My current mentee, Destiny A. is looking forward to learning more about Aboriginal Culture and History (Do you know when National Aboriginal Day is? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Destiny does because she had to learn about it during Week 5 of her training!). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Destiny also found it interesting that Toronto was founded as a trading center in the 1600s and is looking forward to eating beaver tails.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of these things, and more, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>were discussed during my time with Destiny, which I enjoyed immensely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She asked me questions such as “what inspires me to travel” and “how did I navigate myself through the mountains of Atlanta with no GPS’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She is ready to tackle her adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so excited for her!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am so excited for all of them!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Why? Because I know that this experience will change their lives in ways they may not understand for years to come. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will make new friends, see new things, go to new places, eat new food. They will laugh. Get frustrated, but then figure it out. Some may experience fear. Some may experience tears. But through it all, they will learn. They will grow. They will appreciate. And hopefully, they will begin to understand my GrandMa’s words “the more you give, the more you get”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Wow. Now that’s the #PowerOfThePassport.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Travel Well Ladies…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;">Angela Myers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 Girls & a Bikini</span></span></div>
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-80196928130733043482015-03-31T15:40:00.001-05:002015-03-31T15:40:37.169-05:00I've Been Absent<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">I know – I’ve been absent.
And it’s not because I haven’t been traveling. Since last we spoke, I’ve
been to Dubai/Abu Dhabi (UAE), Oman (Muscat), Panama City (Panama), Bangkok and
Phuket (Thailand), Singapore and of course, one of my favorite destinations,
Riviera Maya (Mexico). And a quick glance at my blog made me realize that
I didn’t even take the time to tell post any pictures! GEEZ.....<br />
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Go ahead and ask, I certainly have: "What’s going on Angie"?!
Well, I put some serious thought into it and *bling* the light bulb went on.
It’s not that I’ve lost my lust for travel, but I’ve lost my LOVE for travel.
</span><o:p></o:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<u1:p></u1:p> <span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">It’s
true. No longer was I spending hours researching new destinations and
adding to my “I Wanna Go” list. No longer was I reading and learning all
about my next destination – the people, the culture, the best beach. I
was just buying flights, showing up and hoping that it went well. How and
When and did this happen?<o:p></o:p></span><u1:p></u1:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">I had to take a step back,
re-evaluate and ask myself the basic question: “Why do you travel?” The
first thing that came to my mind: To say I’ve been. #recordscratch<o:p></o:p></span><u1:p></u1:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">No, No, No….this cannot be.
It’s not possible. I am a traveler. I travel to learn.
To explore. To adventure. To meet new people in new places.
I do not travel for the passport stamp!<o:p></o:p></span><u1:p></u1:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">I had to take some time off.
I had to remind myself that this is not a competition, but a journey. To
remember that it doesn’t matter that I have not had pages added to my passport;
but that I have walked on the shores of uninhabited islands. That despite
my fear of heights, I have been to the top of the world’s tallest man-made
structure and taken a ride aboard the world’s largest observation wheel.
That I have spent days laying on the shores of pristine beaches with friends
and family. That I have cultivated a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Just Go</i></b>
attitude in those around me and set an example for those watching. That
is what matters. <o:p></o:p></span><u1:p></u1:p><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">I don’t know how long it
will take me to get back to the LOVE of travel, but that’s my next trip. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">In the meantime, let me
hear all about the wonderful travels you have planned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me see pictures of your recent Spring
Break adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or the honeymoon it
took you weeks (months) to plan.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or the
solo experience you didn’t think you would survive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or tell me all about your recent staycation
where you explored your home town and found a cute little neighborhood.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Where ever you have
been.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever you have done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Share it with me!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif";">Happy Traveling Friends~<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span></div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-86563424144575370222014-03-06T09:47:00.001-06:002014-06-03T13:08:04.029-05:00Friday <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">There
is a running joke in my office.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">Every
Friday, one of my co-workers will say to me “where are you running off to this
weekend?”</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">or “what exotic island are you
visiting this week?”</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">And I will answer “don’t
I wish” with a devilish grin.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">Why the
grin?</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">Because little do they know, I am
always less than 3 months away from my next beach adventure.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">How do I do this?</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">How can I afford at least 6 vacations a
year?</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">And how can you do it too?</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">Simple – PLAN THEM.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now
when I say 6 vacations a year, some of those are quick, long weekend
get-a-ways; but at least one (or two) will be a week-long adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are a few rules I live by when planning
my vacations for the upcoming year:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Rule #1 - FLIGHTS</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I book flights at least 4-8 months in advance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I very rarely buy last minute flights, unless it's an absolutely can not pass up deal. I prefer to have as much of my vacation paid for prior to hitting the ground</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">By booking in advance the flight in advance, I have time to pay it off completely prior to traveling.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Booking my flight is a process. I typically have a price in mind for airfare to a particular destination because I have spent time tracking the airfare. I begin watching airfare at least a year in advance, checking the price during high and low season. This gives me an "average" cost and helps me determine how much I'm willing to pay for my airline ticket. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I typically spend time checking the obvious sites such as
Orbitz, Travelocity, etc., however </span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">the <a href="http://matrix.itasoftware.com/" target="_blank">ITA Software Matrix</a> has become my best friend. On this site you can see airfare up to 30 days ahead of your requested departure date. This way, I can see what departure/return dates</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">But I also
check the actual carrier’s website for unadvertised deals and I’m able to play
around with dates easily to find the best price. Most carriers have a calendar feature that
will show prices for the entire month, so unless I’m traveling for a specific
event, I will remain flexible with my dates (and location). I shop airfare for at least a week before
booking and I prefer to book my airfare on a site that comes with a price
guarantee so that I get a refund if someone books the same flight at a lower
cost. I also know that Monday is the
probably the worst day to book a flight and Tuesday and Wednesday are the
cheapest days to travel. So, I keep this in mind when planning my escape. Also, I set up alerts on websites such as </span><a href="http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Calibri;">www.airfarewatchdog.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><u><span style="color: blue;"> </span></u></span>to keep an eye on flights I’m interested in. If a flight is rising above my threshold, I
made a decision to buy; or reschedule that trip.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">If booking my flight
and hotel together is cheaper than booking separately, I do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I take the time to check and make sure
it’s actually cheaper. I go to the hotel’s website directly and check the
rates; again there could be an unadvertised special.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also call to see if the hotel can offer a
better deal than what is being offered on the internet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t know if you don’t ask.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Rule #2</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A refrigerator, and maybe even a microwave,
is a must in my hotel room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This way,
I’m not blowing my budget eating out every meal of the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For my long weekenders, I always keep quick
breakfast items in my room.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A bagel, breakfast
bar, cereal, juice and some fruit will get me to lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I always take advantage of a continental
breakfast that is included in the cost of the room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">When traveling for a longer period of time, or with my
children, I prefer to use a timeshare unit with a full kitchen or rent a condo.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">This way, I can cook a few meals.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="font-family: Calibri; text-align: justify;">I also keep snacks and items to make a
sandwich for those days when we’re hanging around the pool to get us from lunch
to dinner without buying another meal.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Another tip - a refrigerator to keep beer or other alcohol cold
can save a bundle!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Rule #3</b>:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I try and bundle my trips.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For instance, if I’m in Cancun, I will visit
Cozumel and Isla Mujeres.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When I went to
St. Maarten, I took a ferry over to Anguilla.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When I took my kids on a cruise to the Bahamas, we came back and spent a
few nights in Orlando before flying home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Next year, I’m planning a trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands and will take
a ferry over to the British Virgin Island of Tortola for a couple of days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Catch my drift? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s much cheaper to extend your vacation a
day or two and visit a neighboring city, island or country than to buy another
ticket to return.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">I also travel like the locals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I use public transportation versus cabs, or
rent a car if I know I’m going to be doing a lot of moving around.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will also take advantage of any
transportation the hotel offers, i.e. a shuttle bus into downtown or to a
popular tourist spot.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">So there you have it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have other tips and tricks that I use, but these 3 will guide me to a
year of what seems like, at least to my co-workers, constant vacation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-ms-text-justify: inter-ideograph; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; tab-stops: 326.55pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Happy Travels!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-75983724548230851132014-01-11T18:43:00.003-06:002014-01-12T09:30:54.156-06:00#2014Travels<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin: 0px; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyxjFsx_d3oz2wgAI8tLQ57fUmNZeqpDmV2D4xMSfsiBmMzmCUBsiy_F4sif7AzrWJ8LbBWQYH8IDJ2IlGfmXiJCqswZXFWA52dcnJjeV3vhZmsmGp6fABiifUw7VcnltyZbnCCDA2CM/s1600/free-happy-new-year-2014-clipart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggyxjFsx_d3oz2wgAI8tLQ57fUmNZeqpDmV2D4xMSfsiBmMzmCUBsiy_F4sif7AzrWJ8LbBWQYH8IDJ2IlGfmXiJCqswZXFWA52dcnJjeV3vhZmsmGp6fABiifUw7VcnltyZbnCCDA2CM/s1600/free-happy-new-year-2014-clipart.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;">Yes, I know - It's mid January and I'm a little late, but I've been busy kicking my year off with a bang! Let's see:</span><br />
<ul style="background-color: white;">
<li>I launched a new <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.2girlsbikini.com/" href="http://www.2girlsbikini.com/">website</a>. It's everything 2 Girls & a Bikini; but in one place. Check it out and let me know what you think!</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white;">
<li>I became an independent travel agent. AHHHHH, finally! <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.offthebeachypath.com/" href="http://www.offthebeachypath.com/">Off the Beachy Path Travel</a> is a full service travel agency prepared to provide you with as little, or as much, help as you need to make your next vacation, your best vacation. Also check out our <a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.facebook.com/offthebeachypathtravel" href="http://www.facebook.com/offthebeachypathtravel">Facebook</a> page!</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white;">
<li>I'm headed to Panama City, Panama. Yep, I leave in a week. I'm so excited about my first international trip of the year. But why Panama? It just seems so random. I know, but there was a great fare deal and beautiful islands to see. That's a double whammy and hard for me to ignore. Be on the look out for pictures soon!</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white;">
<li>I planned a trip to escort a group of travelers to Riviera Maya. Me and a group of 8 will be headed to one of my favorite beach destinations for the Memorial Day weekend. We will spend our days exploring the beautiful beaches of the area and our nights enjoying the Playa del Carmen nightlife. Get the details <a data-cke-saved-href="http://media.wix.com/ugd/5fb866_01607daf69ea495eab03f9e0995ca035.pdf" href="http://media.wix.com/ugd/5fb866_01607daf69ea495eab03f9e0995ca035.pdf">here</a>.</li>
</ul>
<span style="background-color: white;">I'm still working on the rest of my 2014 travel itinerary, but I'm thinking a little bit of old (Istanbul, yes again) while throwing some new destinations in the mix (Nice/Barcelona/Madrid). </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">What about you? What is on your 2014 travel "must see, must do" list? Are you headed to new destinations or sticking with some tried and true favorites? Racking up frequent flier miles or staying close to home? </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Hmmmm, decisions, decisions. </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">In the meantime, I've put together a </span><a data-cke-saved-href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnkfX1SFMFg" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnkfX1SFMFg" style="background-color: white;">video</a><span style="background-color: white;"> with some of my favorite people, places and things of 2013. Enjoy!</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></div>
</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-26874630675622557832013-10-03T06:45:00.001-05:002013-10-03T15:00:46.908-05:00The Apple<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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You know what they say about The Apple, right? That is doesn’t fall far from the tree? YEP, it's true. Which is why I wasn’t too surprised when my
daughter, who recently graduated from high school, approached me with the idea
of a “<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gap_year" target="_blank">Gap Year</a>” in order to travel. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Now don’t get me wrong, I wasn’t immediately on board with the idea. Although my inner traveler was doing swirls, the Mom in me had some concerns. I mean, at the
time, she was only 17. What did she know
about traveling the world? Where was she
planning on going? What was she planning
on doing? Who was
gonna pay for all of this “travel”.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Putting my motherly feelings aside, I gave her a challenge:
come up with a plan for the next year and we will talk about it. Off she went with her assignment and less than a month later, she
came back to me with a very rough draft:
take a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teaching_English_as_a_foreign_language" target="_blank">TEFL</a> Certification Course, Teach, Travel. SMH…this plan certainly needed some work and
more info. So, I sent her off with
another challenge. One that required a
little more research: where are you
getting a TEFL Certification, is the program accredited, where will you teach
(considering she does not have a 4-year degree), and most importantly will it
pay you enough to live (and travel)?<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVoSODrwo1nm41zPr6-wPH4_xTeMV3qFBNGZKRjMCEnOrXY-l5XKzy47w6nUoguAU-aMCfwXKIq39cnCiJvX-PaXChTbY9Sm6FRKGSArX1b7LSSfqEhTcn9pYMWBd9LWs7XxcBEWapVwE/s1600/kennedy+in+paris.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVoSODrwo1nm41zPr6-wPH4_xTeMV3qFBNGZKRjMCEnOrXY-l5XKzy47w6nUoguAU-aMCfwXKIq39cnCiJvX-PaXChTbY9Sm6FRKGSArX1b7LSSfqEhTcn9pYMWBd9LWs7XxcBEWapVwE/s320/kennedy+in+paris.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
She was up to the task and I was very impressed with
her diligence. Little did she know, I
had already given in and was doing some research of my own. Turned out, there was a highly recommend
program right here in the Chicago area.
It also turned out that there are a few places that will allow her to
teach English as a Foreign Language without a 4-year degree. I was also surprised at how many colleges and
universities were willing to let her defer her admission for a year in support
of a Gap Year. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It was pretty much a done deal. All we had to do now was work out the details and fill in the gaps of the Gap Year. She was so excited it was contagious. We were constantly on the internet reading blogs about teaching abroad and learning about all of the different programs. She decided on a program in Paris, we paid the fees, secured housing and in less than 6 months, we were boarding a flight. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I know what you are thinking, "But how did she end up in Paris when there was a program
right there in Chicago?" Well, we looked
at the programs offered by the TEFL Institute and found that they had schools in various locations. I suggested London (or Peru since she wants to teach there), but what 17 (now 18)
year old female could pass up a chance to spend 6 weeks in the “City of
Light”? What adult could pass up that chance?!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
She asked, I agreed. Simple.
Besides, not agreeing to a Gap Year for travel and allowing her to take the course abroad would have made me a
hypocrite – right? I mean, I
travel. I encourage others to
travel. Why wouldn’t that include her?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I believe that travel changes you. You grow and become more tolerant. You learn to appreciate things and you move
out of your comfort zone. You expose
yourself to different food, customs, ideas, and languages. You make connections. You learn more about yourself and become more confident. Didn't I want these things for her? Of course I did. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Leaving her in Paris was one of the hardest things I’ve ever
had to do. I think I woke up that morning crying. I cried in the shower, while brushing my teeth, while getting dressed...I cried, cried, cried. When it was time for me to head
to the airport, she looked me in the eye and asked, “Why are you crying?” I answered, “Because I will miss you so much.” Her response?
“I will miss you too. See you in
Barcelona.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmxS0MOTOI128mtL3X1qrXnqNQmx_Ox-6iwEczk2pelY6DGyg64tmmzDdiB3WWNONlLevx3FiSOLnTlLEt8OuoD67pAlfeHPS2DzSCBXd7rjefOZmmNELp4oXExIrpCXLYesteAlcQIE/s1600/IMG_5585.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmxS0MOTOI128mtL3X1qrXnqNQmx_Ox-6iwEczk2pelY6DGyg64tmmzDdiB3WWNONlLevx3FiSOLnTlLEt8OuoD67pAlfeHPS2DzSCBXd7rjefOZmmNELp4oXExIrpCXLYesteAlcQIE/s400/IMG_5585.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And with that, I knew my work was done. Enjoy the journey Kennedy!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<!--EndFragment--><br /></div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-5219223874375898092013-08-24T20:11:00.000-05:002013-09-11T05:51:53.560-05:00What's In a Staycation?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
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A friend of mine recently stated on her Facebook page that she was off work for the next 3 days. Of course, I got excited and asked “Where Are You Going?” and to that she responded “No where. It’s a Staycation.” OHHHHHHH….a Staycation?! I got REALLY EXCITED. Why? Cause Staycations can be fun too!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Staycations give you a chance to do things in your own city that you never get to do or never think about doing. A Staycation allows you to see your city the way others do. It gives you an opportunity to slow down and smell the streets of unknown neighborhoods, walk around an empty shopping center, or have a leisurely lunch at a restaurant that usually has a 30 minute wait just to be seated. It gives you a chance to fall in love with your city - all over again.</div>
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Recently, I’ve been on a self imposed “no travel” restriction. Unable to leave town, I have been exploring Chicago in ways that I haven’t in a long time. And while I will be the first to admit, I love hopping on planes and heading to new places; it's been fun to explore my own streets.<br />
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Here are just a few things I have been doing on my weekends while playing tourist in my own home town.</div>
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByAJ3s8McO5NagARN1nv_iz0ITkAbyTakMQK0tM7wc9Wxu3FMpeO3OBiUlDZoQ11hgBMFDsyOXgNcvBVU2HZlh_-tJP-tvlbGRBCnHGoKViQaBjzoTUC67XEvql6Nw06tgkpB0Qs9P3c/s1600/IMG_4950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiByAJ3s8McO5NagARN1nv_iz0ITkAbyTakMQK0tM7wc9Wxu3FMpeO3OBiUlDZoQ11hgBMFDsyOXgNcvBVU2HZlh_-tJP-tvlbGRBCnHGoKViQaBjzoTUC67XEvql6Nw06tgkpB0Qs9P3c/s320/IMG_4950.JPG" width="320" /></a>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I spent some time at Navy Pier where I sat by the water and watched the boats while eating Funnel Cake.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I found a deal on Jetsetter.com for a downtown hotel I wanted to experience.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I booked a room for July 3</span><sup style="text-indent: -0.25in;">rd</sup><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> (yes, I was surprised that date wasn’t blacked out), sent the deal to some friends and we spent the night hanging out enjoying the start of summer.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 13.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span>I walked up and down Michigan Ave., not shopping (that’s new), but taking in the sites, listening to all of the different languages being spoken and snapping pictures of “Planter Heads” that were installed by <a href="http://www.plantgreenideas.com/"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">Plant Green Ideas</span></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span>in an effort to promote sustainability.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">I got up early one Saturday morning, headed to the closest beach and spent the day laying around, catching up on some reading and watching people on the bike path.</li>
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<ul style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6p3QmaWWnizysR-AaTXps9o4zIOj-SkuEd1YjOuT7zXuA6Acjmn4vF7lLKh32PAFICUSOcSG075cVLNKMUjnmjEhyphenhyphenDnRM3nLWBpZW7M3CZXZNAv1E_zle8SZHrCmrZ2wtHxbQvGD-B8/s1600/IMG_4821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6p3QmaWWnizysR-AaTXps9o4zIOj-SkuEd1YjOuT7zXuA6Acjmn4vF7lLKh32PAFICUSOcSG075cVLNKMUjnmjEhyphenhyphenDnRM3nLWBpZW7M3CZXZNAv1E_zle8SZHrCmrZ2wtHxbQvGD-B8/s200/IMG_4821.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Some friends and I snagged a Groupon deal and hopped on an architectural boat tour where I learned that the natural flow of the Chicago River has been reversed. WOW – that’s interesting! I actually did some research when I got home about how they did that.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">I’ve been to Millennium Park at least twice. On one trip, I simply sat by Crown Fountain eating ice cream and watching children play freely in the water. On my most recent trip to Millennium Park, I discovered a series of sculptures in an outdoor gallery. Turns out, this gallery is named <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_Galleries" target="_blank">Boing Gallery</a> and the collection is titled <i>Dangos</i> by Jun Kaneko, who is known for his work in the field of monumental ceramic sculpture. I found these sculptures uninteresting, yet interesting. It was odd. I read the information card and learned that the pieces were “representative of his past and present artistic practices” and that the ceramic steels are “covered in a variety of vibrant shapes and patterns which allow viewers to examine their environment and focus in a sense of scale and place.” *<b>Blank Stare*</b></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHVv2dk5eBk9ZLEYkkoN47s2oWTnWXyYBykPV0ufRyX0afuRldRi0wOq8Sjry0Ug286TQAEAsj9HtDwrXKpfdAdF9cG_12Qebpo0sXAX8kLDBbeYS0gDN58uOGzcEbtQxmKnXkwqu-mBI/s1600/stones.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHVv2dk5eBk9ZLEYkkoN47s2oWTnWXyYBykPV0ufRyX0afuRldRi0wOq8Sjry0Ug286TQAEAsj9HtDwrXKpfdAdF9cG_12Qebpo0sXAX8kLDBbeYS0gDN58uOGzcEbtQxmKnXkwqu-mBI/s640/stones.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I will say that my self imposed travel restriction has been frustrating, but rewarding. Yesterday, I spent some time at a beach close to my house watching boats sail by. I whispered to my friend, "Chicago is a beautiful city" and he whispered back "Yes, it certainly is". </div>
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31st Street Beach. Chicago, IL</div>
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For more photos of my weekends out, click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.673039052724070.1073741828.225894437438536&type=1&l=dd45b54e03" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-15553997819090212142013-06-15T16:35:00.000-05:002013-06-15T16:35:47.654-05:00Get Started Traveling<div style="text-align: justify;">
A number of people have said to me that they admire my ability to travel the way and as much as I do. When I tell them that I am not doing anything they themselves can not do, I'm usually met with the blank stare or a flat out "na, I can't" but when asked "why not", the blank stare appears. </div>
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After a lengthy conversation with a co-worker this week about how to get started traveling and a recent post in a Facebook group from someone who is admiring others travel from afar, I decided to give some practical, step-by-step instructions on just how to get started traveling.</div>
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It's easy to tell someone "just get out there and GO" but to a person who might not be as spontaneous and adventurous as I am, this statement might very well induce a panic attack! So let's take it slow and do some pre-travel work.</div>
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Now unless you just got it like that, your first step should be to open a Travel Savings Account. I do not recommend anyone finance their travels completely using credit. Now there are creative ways to use your credit cards and finance your travels, such as paying your monthly bills with an airline card in order to rack up miles to purchase a plane ticket, etc. But other than that, try and pay for your travels using cash. Or, put your escape on lay away. There are a few sites, such as <a href="http://www.bookit.com/" target="_blank">Book It</a> that offer payment plans. This way your travels aren't haunted by the bill that will show up in your mail box next month.</div>
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I use <a href="http://www.ingdirect.com/" target="_blank">ING</a> (now Capital One) for my travel account because they do not have a local branch where I live, reducing my urge to use an ATM for withdrawals. I have a direct deposit going into that account so every time I get paid, my travel dreams get paid. This account is used for travel, and only travel. This also helps me stay within my budget. I talked more about this in my blog "<a href="http://2girlsbikini.blogspot.com/2012/10/how-i-afford-to-travel.html" target="_blank">How I Afford to Travel</a>".</div>
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Next, start a list of possible destinations. Can't think of any places you would like to visit? Grab some travel magazines (<a href="http://www.cntraveler.com/" target="_blank">Conde Nast Traveler</a> is my favorite), surf the internet, ask friends/family/coworkers about their favorite destinations. Also, create a travel vision board and post it in a place where you will see it daily. I have my board posted in my closet so I can see it a few times per day. If you are a social media junkie, create a digital board using <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. If you have children and a spouse that will be traveling with you, have them get involved in selecting destinations and posting pictures.<br />
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Got your destinations ready? Start your research. I typically google "things to do in XXX" or "best time to travel to XXX". Usually the Tourism Bureau for that destination will be the first link and there is not a better place to start. You will also find blogs from people who live in that destination and expert guides. I read anything and everything I can find about my destination. I clip photos of things I want to do and place them on my board. This helps me build my excitement and keeps me motivated to continue to save towards my goal.<br />
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Now sign up to receive email alerts from websites such as <a href="http://www.jetsetter.com/" target="_blank">Jetsetter</a>, <a href="http://www.orbitz.com/" target="_blank">Orbitz</a>, <a href="http://www.sniqueaway.com/" target="_blank">SniqueAway</a>, <a href="http://www.shermanstravel.com/" target="_blank">Sherman's Travel</a>, and <a href="http://www.theflightdeal.com/" target="_blank">The Flight Deal</a>. This will get you advance notice of airline deals, hotel specials, etc. Also remember to sign up directly on the airlines websites. But remember that these deals come and go quickly. If you see a great fare to a destination high on your list, or a great rate for a hotel where you would like to stay, you must be prepared to pull the trigger (your travel account is waiting to be used) because these deals are usually in limited quantity and may not be available for long.<br />
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You are now prepared to "just get out there and go". But if you are still unsure of how to plan the details: What should I do while there? How long should I stay? How do I get to my hotel after I landed? ETC? Don't be afraid to use the services of a professional travel agent, such as myself. I would be more than happy to help you plan out a vacation that will get you up and out.<br />
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So what are you still doing here? GO ALREADY! </div>
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-18899620086736175942013-05-30T22:02:00.000-05:002013-05-30T22:25:40.972-05:00When My Need to be Cute, Cool and Covered Clashed<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Hello all you 2 Girls & a Bikini followers, “Other Girl” checking in for the very first time. Over the past few years, or should I say past few vacations, Angie has encouraged me to share my thoughts and experiences on our many adventures. But until now I didn’t feel I had anything to contribute, but our most recent trip to Dubai has inspired me, and now I have caught the writing bug also.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerz5nWSIrrTFTW_Px8woW5C__Tr1Fzx49zUSgL9pVy8T3WZ_UyZModoF2H0oDGYo905SD33f3_gOjpjWeqjz0SNOX0-RQ-TIaxvW32QpvYQADiJJHSLrf9Gz3tEe9FaQfFe8hzApcFM8/s1600/IMG_4296.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjerz5nWSIrrTFTW_Px8woW5C__Tr1Fzx49zUSgL9pVy8T3WZ_UyZModoF2H0oDGYo905SD33f3_gOjpjWeqjz0SNOX0-RQ-TIaxvW32QpvYQADiJJHSLrf9Gz3tEe9FaQfFe8hzApcFM8/s320/IMG_4296.jpg" width="240" /></a>Packing for Dubai was the most challenging thing I’ve done in awhile. When trying to pick outfits, which adhere to a cultural standard, yet continue to represent my personal style, I ran into many a conundrum. These problems were only multiplied by the al la <span class="GramE">carte</span> travel industry we seem to be living in these days, where you practically pay for everything but air on your flight. So, I got to thinking. How do I manage to pack “light”, dress comfortable for the weather, dress appropriate for an Islamic state, yet still be my Fabulous self?</div>
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Here are 5 ways I made it work, and all in one suitcase!</div>
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1.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span>5 outfits, just 1 pair of shoes!</div>
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If you are anything like me, I live for a pair of sexy high heels. Unfortunately six-inch stilettos are neither comfortable nor functional for exploring the streets of Dubai, Italy, Greece, or wherever your adventure takes you. While I miss the days of no baggage fees and multiple suitcase travel (a girl needs options), it’s just not the world we live in today. So, it’s time to get creative. Pick a pair of shoes that are both cute and comfortable, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking, then start building from there. <span class="GramE">Wedges and Espadrilles staples in my travel wardrobe.</span> They are cute, go with multiple styles of dress and I can walk for hours in them before I have to sacrifice fashion for the sake of actually being able to walk. They also satisfy my need for a <span class="GramE">high heeled</span> shoe. I also love that these shoes are appropriate for a day of sight seeing in jeans and a Tee, chilling at the beach in a romper, or heading out for a nice dinner in a sundress. Pretty much making them my all-purpose travel shoe.</div>
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Not into to heels? How about the ballerina slipper or the gladiator sandal? They are both cute and comfortable, especially ones with some rhinestone or stud embellishments.</div>
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2.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Go from day to night!</div>
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To keep the luggage fees down and limit the shear amount of clothing you pack, pick items that easily transition from day to night. The maxi dress, harem pant, and pant jumper are all great options for this. You can easily transition any of these from day to night with a change of shoes, adding a jacket, or throwing on new accessories. Also, these items are typically pretty <span class="GramE">light weight</span> so they don’t take up a lot of space in your suitcase. Besides, these items are usually made out of jersey cotton material so they can be hand washed and hung to dry in the event you need to recycle outfits.</div>
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3.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize!</div>
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Belts, necklaces, and rings! Oh, My! Accessories are a great way to change up your outfit without adding a lot of bulk to your suitcase. And as I mentioned above, you can take any outfit from day to night with just a change in necklace or adding a belt.</div>
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4.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Just buy it at the mall!</div>
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Shopping? Yes please! Sometimes I embark on a vacation knowin<span style="text-align: left;">g there will be lots of opportunities for shopping. In these events, why pack your old clothes? Use this as an opportunity to buy new ones. Instead of trying to project what mood you will be in to go to the club in 7 days, just buy an outfit on the day of that suits what you are feeling and won’t make you a spectacle at the club. Then you know you will feel confident in a foreign setting. Just be sure to leave space in that suitcase to get all your fabulous new purchases home.</span></div>
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5.<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Leggings are our <span class="GramE">friend</span>!</div>
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Like many <span class="SpellE">fashionistas</span>, I did not consider plain leggings haute couture (unless they were literally haute couture). But I have learned that the legging is my travel friend, especially in Dubai. Leggings, like the maxi dress, are lightweight, comfortable, and very versatile. All while keeping everything covered. I found it super easy to continue to wear many of my normal vacation sun dresses, rompers, and wedges, by just adding a pair of plain leggings to match.</div>
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Hope you found some of these tips helpful. Here’s wishing you happy and fashionable travels.</div>
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To view all of our pictures from Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman, please click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.622625051098804.1073741826.225894437438536&type=1&l=e28d079710" target="_blank">here</a>!</div>
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2 Girls & a Bikini</div>
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2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-12794242965008209732013-05-09T00:43:00.001-05:002013-05-15T16:35:18.365-05:00Why I Travel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When I was first asked that question, my initial response was “Why Not?” But since that wouldn’t make for a very interesting blog, I gave the question some additional thought. That is when I began to notice that all of my fondest memories from my childhood involved travel. <br />
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You see my Mom was a traveler. She loved to go. So she made sure that every summer, if not more often, we went. Of course, Florida was a favorite destination, but we also enjoyed time in Wisconsin Dells, Atlanta, St. Louis, Chicago (we lived in Detroit then) New Orleans, California and Washington DC. My childhood was filled with family trips and family meant sisters, brothers, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, neighbors and anyone else who said “Can I go?”<br />
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As a child, I loved this family tradition and couldn’t wait to see what kind of trouble I could get into. Here are just a few of my memories:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Almost giving my Aunt a heart-attack when I brought a frog from the pool into the room.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Learning that I really couldn’t swim by jumping into the deep end of the pool and being rescued by the life guard (My Aunt immediately enrolled me into swimming lessons when we got home so that we wouldn’t have this problem again with her “little fish”).</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Swiping the tips left on the table for the waitress every time we left a restaurant (What? I didn’t know why change was constantly being left behind!).</li>
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Ahhhhh yes. Those were the good old days!<br />
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Recently I read a study conducted on behalf of the U.S. Travel Association and I realized that my Mom was on to something. According to the study:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Adults remember vacations from a young age: the majority of adults surveyed (62%) say their earliest memories were of family vacations taken when they were between ages 5 and 10.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Half (49%) of adults describe their memories of childhood family vacations as “very vivid.” These memories are significantly stronger than their memories of school events or birthday celebrations (34% and 31%).</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Travel experiences are not only remembered, but also passed on to younger generations: 77% of youth respondents report that their parents have told them stories about their childhood family vacations.</li>
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Who knew? Pssst – my Mom did!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYrialeMsr4d2jfU_WtsQ-4n540QUfuITbxTJitFL1UO5c9rsPUhHWB69H06FSIEIKuj_O2z_dPK0t8MwSMmhv1ysn0hB_i0epbB2uTS_yLannTMngLk7F95f9222-NBGv2hIAZCDmbxs/s1600/family2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYrialeMsr4d2jfU_WtsQ-4n540QUfuITbxTJitFL1UO5c9rsPUhHWB69H06FSIEIKuj_O2z_dPK0t8MwSMmhv1ysn0hB_i0epbB2uTS_yLannTMngLk7F95f9222-NBGv2hIAZCDmbxs/s320/family2.png" width="320" /></a>Now that I have children of my own, I try to follow in my Mom’s footsteps by making sure we hit the road (well, the sky) at least once a year. And just like then, anyone is welcome to join us. Last year, I took my daughter, her friend, and my niece to New York for a long weekend. We also crashed my Uncle's family trip to Atlanta. This year, my daughter and 2 friends are heading to Ft. Lauderdale with me. Three years ago, we embarked on a true family vacation with 2 Aunts, my Sister and her crew (2 daughters and 1 grand son), and a cousin. My kids still talk about that trip!<br />
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And there’s more! Not only does travel bring your family closer; it also strengthens the U.S. economy and puts us a step closer on the road to recovery. Check out these facts:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Since 2010, the travel industry created jobs at a pace nearly 16 percent faster than the rest of the economy, adding 296,000 American jobs (as of October 2012).</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">The total number of American jobs supported by travel is 14.4 million.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">4 million travel industry workers earn a middle‐class income or higher.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Traveler spending directly generates $124 billion in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Direct spending by resident and international travelers in the U.S. averaged $2.2 billion a day, $92.8 million an hour, $1.5 million a minute and $25,778 a second.</li>
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WOW!<br />
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So get out there and do your part. Grab the spouse, the kids, Grandkids, Grand Parents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Neighbors and friends. Hit the open road. Sing some goofy songs. Take over half a plane and watch an in-flight movie. Get lost in a new place. Disconnect. Make some new friends (or re-connect with some old ones). <br />
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But most importantly, make some memories that will be talked about long after you’re gone. <br />
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That’s the Travel Effect!<br />
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*All statistical data provided by the The U.S. Travel Association. For more information, click here.</div>
2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8030640086085435738.post-84336201162537403672013-04-25T03:47:00.001-05:002013-04-25T20:15:18.587-05:00Monday Mornings<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
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Every Monday morning when I walk into the office I have
the same conversation, but with a different person than the person I had the
conversation with the Monday before. It
goes like this:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: Good Morning<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Them: Good Morning
Angie. How was your weekend?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: It was cool. I didn’t do anything.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Them: Nothing? That’s hard to believe. You didn’t go out?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: *<b>deep breath* </b>Nope. I didn’t go out. I never go out unless it’s a special
occasion, like a friend’s birthday.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Them: I see….<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
Sigh. It’s always a struggle to explain to someone that spending unnecessary money on the weekends just isn’t what I do. Why?
Because it isn’t a priority for me.
And after years of being “about that life”, it just got old. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
You
see, it took some time, but I finally realized that I wasn’t spending the
weekend doing all of the in <o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNTppp1um8-eztgZ5StGKy9jXfA6R4cWQnaJV5vwxmaGpypNFLqkII7hCPddf9ygs50VPDzOmoCaKuDneB-W_WHd-IRHNxFN1Qpmc-yqyOcNsDkgjygmAFPQY6iVhQc9nuLGD-QjIMdw/s1600/Monday+Mornings.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNNTppp1um8-eztgZ5StGKy9jXfA6R4cWQnaJV5vwxmaGpypNFLqkII7hCPddf9ygs50VPDzOmoCaKuDneB-W_WHd-IRHNxFN1Qpmc-yqyOcNsDkgjygmAFPQY6iVhQc9nuLGD-QjIMdw/s320/Monday+Mornings.png" width="274" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
things to do for me; but rather for other
people. I wasn’t showing up at all of
the hot spots for myself, but so other people could say “I saw Angie last night
at…” or so I could be tagged in pictures, or so I could be seen with the "right" people. </div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It
never occurred to me, until years later, how much money that weekend ritual was
costing me. I mean, I had to stay suited
up in designer wear complemented by the latest it bag and shoes. Not to mention the costs of just being out
and about: parking (I live in Chicago
where free parking is like unicorns. It
doesn’t exist!), cover into the club, food, drinks, tips, etc. Those weekends out were eating up a large
chunk of my disposable income!<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But once I re-prioritized my life and realized that I wanted to do more, see more,
experience more; it was easy to give up the $100 weekends. It was actually very easy to give up the
designer clothes, the expensive dinners, the gourmet drinks and the $20 valet. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But
I gained so much more. I had more
disposable income, which meant I could pay off some credit card balances and
other debt, which meant I had more disposable income. The more bills I paid off, the more
disposable income I had. It was a vicious
cycle, but I liked it. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I
began purchasing flights with cash, prepaying for hotels with cash, paying for all of
my meals and activities with, OMG, cash.
It was completely unheard of, but I was traveling to the places I chose and coming
home completely debt free!<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now,
I’m not side-eyeing anyone who enjoys his or her weekends to the fullest by
going out. I’m just saying that for me, the
money I’ve saved by forgoing expensive weekends here at home, has financed lots of weekends elsewhere!<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Traveling~<o:p></o:p></div>
<!--EndFragment-->2girlsbikinihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13981939958014988277noreply@blogger.com1