Sole Sisters: February 2012

Five European cities I want to visit in 2012

It’s been 3 years since I left my past life in Europe and lately it’s been calling out to me. I miss the simple pleasure of having coffee at an outdoor café while the outside world passed me by. I miss walking the cobblestone steps and gazing out to the courtyard of fantastically built churches that seem ancient and absolute. This year is probably the best time to come back. I have selected five European cities well worth making the time to visit in 2012.

Edinburgh

There’s never a dull moment in this Scottish capital. Every year starts and ends in style with the world-famous Hogmanay celebrations. Another highlight of the cultural calendar takes places in August when the Fringe Festival attracts visitors from all parts of the world. When it comes to accommodations, there are and affordable hotels in Edinburgh to fit every budget. Ibis hotel Edinburgh is one such place that provides comfort and service for a price that might surprise you for a central location. I would love to visit the Edinburgh Castle and witness the daily gun salute at 1pm as well as the National Museum of Scotland.

London Bridge (Tower Bridge) : Reflection on the River Thames

Photo Credit: Anirudh Koul

London

The eyes of the world will be on London later this year when the city hosts the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. Countless venues across London will stage a variety of events, from archery to wrestling - and I wish to be part of it all. It doesn’t matter if I purchase tickets or just witness the festivities along one of the designated fan parks. Either way, I’ll be able to watch all the action unfold on giant screens. Another event I’m keeping an eye on this year is the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations. London has an array of attractions to head to and luckily for smart travellers like myself, many are free to enter like the Tate Modern all year round.

Photo Credit: Moyan_Brenn (I'm Back)

Madrid

When you think of Spain, you immediately set your heart on going to Barcelona. But after meeting a lovely lady from Spain after a recent trip to Florida, I’ve realized Madrid is well worth a visit. The city centre is made up of a labyrinth of streets lined with shops, restaurants and bars and because I’m always in search of a little culture. I’m looking forward to visiting the Museo del Prado to see works of Picasso. The Royal Palace of Madrid is another attraction I look forward to checking ou. And I wouldn’t miss an interesting tour of the Santiago Bernabeu, home to Real Madrid, one of the most successful sporting teams.

Photo Credit: Boris Mitendorfer Photography

Maribor

Mari-where? Did you know that Maribor along with Guimarães in Portugal is the 2012 European capital of culture? The Slovenian city is bracing itself for a whirlwind next 12 months as it prepares to welcome an influx of tourists keen to learn more about this often overlooked part of Europe. There’s stunning architecture to marvel at in the form of a Franciscan Church and the picturesque Rotovski trg square in the old town.

Photo Credit: Cassio Rogério

Munich

Back when I was living in Germany, there was an essential German experience I missed: Oktoberfest! And you know what they say, if you come to Germany and never get to experience this tradition in Munich, it’s like you’ve never been there at all. Oktoberfest is something I should experience at least once in my lifetime along with a trip to the Hofbrauhaus, which is thought to be the world’s largest pub. I’ve been told that the beer served here is unlike anything I’ll ever taste anywhere else. While the food lovers in me is saying I should make a pilgrimage to Viktualienmarkt, the daily food market serving up all manner of tasty treats. I’m missing curry wurst already!

What's on YOUR Euro wishlist?

Dreaming of more travels in 2012,

Sole Sister Lois

main photo credit: Moyan_Brenn (I'm Back)

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Sole Sister Spotlight: Glampacker Anna Zalazar

Have you ever stumbled on someone online and you feel like you already know them?

You have so much in common that you just might be long lost sisters in a past life. That's what I felt when I got an email from Anna Zalazar asking about the 21 Day Pilipinas Challenge. She was also born and raised in the Philippines, had moved to New York, quit her job to travel starting with Southeast Asia. Sounds familar?

I met up with Anna last month while she was traveling around the Philippines for an impromptu photo shoot as well as travel exchange. She seemed shy at first but later opened up about traveling the world as a young, single female, her death defying moments and how she handles relationships while on the road. Here are snippets from our conversation:

Describe the story of your "old" life, how you started to travel and why?

I had a job that I liked, a company that I'm proud to have worked at, and a hefty paycheck at the end of the month. Compared to other companies in America, I was getting more vacation time- about 33 days of paid leave. And though I was in finance, I was working about 35-40 hours a week, tops. But there was a point when it hit me and had that feeling of "Is this it?". You know the whole life after college: work 40+ hours a week, live for the weekends, travel for a few days in a year, get married, buy a house, have kids, work til you're 60 then retire and do the things you love doing.

I knew there's got to be more to life than that.

I also felt that my learning curve started to get stable so I read up on personal development blogs while at work. I stumbled upon travel blogs of people who were vagabonding and doing solo travel for long periods of time. It got me so curious and so I set a goal to do it myself too. I thought if they can do it, so can I!

Who and what inspired you to travel?

There were a lot of people mostly writers whose work inspired me to hit the road. They are: Tim Ferris, Chris Guillebeau, Karol Gajda, Jodi Ettenberg, Pauline Frommer and The Lost Girls: Jennifer, Holly and Amanda. I personally met all of them while I was living in New York, with the exception of Karol Gajda and Tim Ferris whom I also want to meet in the future.

My main inspiration for traveling is for personal development.

I believe that learning is a continuous process. You're either continuously evolving as a person or dying due to lack of desire to learn or lack of opportunities for learning. I was working at a good place at the time and doing things that I've been told to do to make it in the world. But the avenues for growth are limited in the constraints of an office. I've also seen so many people who are on auto-pilot with their lives and didn't want to be one of them.

So I set a date, packed my bags and hit the road.

How long have you been traveling for and how long do you think you will continue to travel?

I've been traveling for about 9 months now. My plan is to travel for a whole year but there were a lot of opportunities that opened up for me since I started traveling. I'm still unsure how long I will continue to travel. I take it one day at a time and just enjoy being in the present where I am right now in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Describe your best moment while traveling.

There's been a lot but it has always been when I get surprised by a beautiful sunset. I love sunsets and I've seen the most beautiful sunsets during my travels. I never time the sunset but I always happen to be at the right place at the right time and with the right people. For me it's a constant reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life.

Describe your worst.

Every travel experience I've had, good or bad, make up my whole story. And once I'm out of that "bad" situation, it always becomes a great story to share. If there was one worst experience I had, it was when I came to the airport not realizing that I missed my flight back to the Philippines because it was actually 1:00 AM and not 1:00 PM. The airline didn't even send me any notification to remind me that this was a red eye flight. Eventually I flipped the whole bad experience and ended up burning my frequent flyer miles and was able to get a first class flight for free at another airline.

Ever had a holyshitimgonna die moment?

Yes! I had two and while I was traveling in Laos. I had a quick change of plans to skip Vietnam and fly from Cambodia to Laos. There is only one airline that flies from Siem Reap to Vientiane and that was Laos Airlines, the worst airline I've ever flown. The flight was just like a roller coaster ride! It was a big plane carrying only 10 people.

I literally saw my coffee jump out of my cup and back!

The other time was when I took the bus to travel from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang. There was a huge landslide on the way. We were told that it would take 3 days before we can cross to the other side of the mountain.

So we went down the bus and crossed the mountains with our backpacks- on foot!

It was very slippery and I was shaking badly. One false step meant I could slip and that would be the end of me! Well, we survived, hitchhiked and made it to Luang Prabang before midnight. It was quite an adventure and made a great story to share.

How do you deter unwanted male attention while on the road?

Aside from dressing appropriately in conservative countries, I always had that "back off" look in my face when need be. It's a mix of an obnoxious New Yorker face with a twist of snobbish Filipina look. It's simple but it works for me. All the time!

Best pick up line you got while on the road?

Tu es belle. ("You're beautiful" in French)

What's your daily budget like?

My ideal budget is $30 a day but South East Asia is so cheap and can be done with a $15-$20 a day budget. I normally go under my budget.

What are your secret glampacker expenditures?

Foot and body massage and body scrubs! Spas in South East Asia are a bargain! I do it at least once a month. If I had to do it in New York, I'll have to pay at least 5 times more of the cost of what I'm getting in Asia. I really do take advantage of it.

Ever fallen in love while travelling? Share.

I'm not the type to fall in love so easily but as much as I'd like to keep my travel life less complicated, there will always be that one person who will be an exception to the rule.

There was this one guy I met and really connected with.

He was the tall, tanned and handsome. But he was also a good conversationalist and had a great sense of humor. He made me laugh so hard and that got me totally smitten. I met him while I was on a detour in an unplanned destination.

Life really happens when you're busy making other plans.

Most obscure travel item in your backpack?

Shu Uemura eyelash curler and an organic Morrocan oil. Just because!

If you weren't traveling solo, who would you like to travel with?

Angelina Jolie. One because I love her and two because I want to know all her travel secrets!

Ever had a "travel fatigue" moment?

Yes, I was traveling to Chiang Mai from Chiang Rai. I was always on the go, taking tours and meeting ups with other travelers everyday. Eventually I got sick. It's hard getting sick when traveling especially when you are alone. That was the first time that I felt really homesick too. I decided to slow travel in Chiang Mai instead of moving again to another new destination.

Anna Zalazar used to be a cubicle dweller working in corporate America before she embarked on the biggest adventure of her life. In 2011 she saved money, sold most of her possessions and in May that same year, she quit her job and went on a one woman adventure that took her back to Asia. Since then, she has been traveling around Asia as a solo female traveler. Follow her quest to explore the world on Annz Ventures.

For the next Sole Sister Spotlight: Surfista Elaine Abonal

Do you know of any female traveler who conquers the world one country at a time? It doesn't matter if they prefer luxurious lodging in Park City or cheap holidays on the beach. Sole Sisters are fearless women travelers who find ways to travel within their means and have a lot of fun along the way! I would love to interview them for Sole Sister Spotlight. Please send me an email at solesisters (dot) weare(at)gmail(dot)com. I look forward to your suggestions!

Seeking other itchy soled sisters,
Sole Sister Lois

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Inspired Travel Thursdays: Pinay on top of Machu Picchu

What is THE inspiration that fuels your journeys, Sole Sisters? Is it a favorite song or music video, a colorful postcard or unforgettable scene from a movie?

Welcome to the newest series on Sole Sisters: Inspired Travel Thursdays where we feature trips that were sparked by a book, snatches from a poem, lyrics from a song or even a person!

Grace Cecilio, another globe hopper Sole Sister, shares how a cartoon show sparked a childhood dream to visit the amazing creation of the Inca Empire in Peru.

Yes that’s me perched at the top of Machu Picchu in April of 2010. It’s an indescribable feeling when a life long travel dream becomes a reality. It took a catastrophic event to finally make me pull the trigger. An overly paranoid part of myself thought that by some bizarre future chain of events all roads/trails/tracks to Machu Picchu might permanently get cut off or worse- the ruins might crumble or disappear!

So on a whim I booked a flight to South America and made the pilgrimage to one of the most wonderful sights in the world.

But how did I ever create this dream of going to Machu Picchu? Why not a beach trip to Mexico or a few weeks of bulgaria holidays?

Cartoons can inspire travel

Three words. The Wild Thornberrys. Once upon a time there was a Nickelodean cartoon show about an adventurous family with a daughter (Eliza) who can talk to animals. They spent most of their days in an RV traveling the world in search of rare animals to film while, of course, getting into all sorts of shenanigans. The show was quirky, witty and funny. Best of all the Thornberrys lived the nomadic life that I wanted.

I know. My mind works in mysterious ways. Who would have thought that a cartoon show would inspire anyone to travel? But it did. It was 1999 and I was 19. I didn’t even know where Machu Picchu was or what it looked like. Until I watched the episode were the Wild Thornberrys went to Peru. There was this scene where Eliza was riding a llama along the Andean pass. She was with her father and as they rounded a corner they caught a glimpse of Machu Picchu. It made my heart pound.

I knew at that point that I wanted see some ancient Inca ruins.

Thanks to Youtube I was able to find the episode that implanted the seeds of this travel plan inside my head. Wait for it at around 8 minutes.

So was Machu Picchu everything I ever dreamed of?

Although I didn’t ride a llama up to the top (I was too lazy to hike/trek) and my day was almost ruined by a rude tour guide, I managed to have an amazing time exploring Machu Picchu. It was a different energy up there. You could almost imagine how it was hundreds of years ago.

I think the Inca’s had it all figured out by living way above sea level. It must have been a breathtaking scene to behold every morning when they woke up. They had a 360 degree view of forests, mountains, rivers and the sky. No wonder they worshipped nature.

Here’s some more snapshots of my day in Machu. I’m hoping this would inspire one of you to pack your bags and go. Just go!

This was as close as I could get to a llama. I’m scared that they might kick me with their hard hooves.

One of the things you should do while on top is to sit on the grass or walk around barefoot. Even better, take a nap or write. I did it and you can read through my scribbles here.

Height gives you a lot of perspective. It reminds you that in life you have to take time to look from up top, down below in order to see the big picture.

Grace Cecilio is a modern day renaissance woman who is always on the move. Born and raised in the Philippines, she became an accidental expat after conquering Mt. Fuji- solo. She now lives in San Diego where she writes about her adventures and misadventures abroad at Pinay on the Move.

Would you like to share stories from your your own inspired travels? Whatever or whoever inspires you to just go, do let us know! Contribute to the Inspired Travel Thursdays Series by sending us an email at solesisters(dot)weare(at)gmail(dot)com.

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Travelers Are Sexy

One of my favorite scenes from the movie "Up in the Air" is when Vera Farmiga's character looks at one of Clooney's many Frequent Flier Rewards cards and goes:

This is pretty f*cking sexy.

Admit it, the idea of someone who goes around the world, discovers exotic places and meets other travelers from all over is pretty darn tempting! Here are 5 reasons why travelers are as hot as that spicy curry dish you had from the Indian deli.

Travelers are confident. Most travelers are people who have lost and rediscovered themselves through exploration. They know who they are and are cool with that. Sometimes it gets to an extreme level where they become know-it-alls and impose on the people they are traveling with. But to meet someone who knows exactly what he wants and is not afraid to go where wanderlust takes him, that is sexy!

Photo Credit: Ben Beiske

Travelers are great conversationalists. Have you ever wondered why well-traveled people can often strike up a conversation with just about anyone and anything? That's because traveling forces you out of your little bubble. It makes you sociable or you wouldn't survive the ravages of the road. Imagine yourself in a strange city where no one speaks your language. You have to start getting creative, make fast friends and enjoy the ride!

Travelers are problem solvers. One thing is certain when you are on the road- things will go WRONG! Preying priests, hellishly cramped transportation, getting a flat tire while biking in Angkor Wat- these are only a few hiccups that you may encounter while traveling. Not only are travelers usually level headed people, they have also trained themselves to look for solutions instead of throwing a b*tch fit.

Travelers are (mostly) physically attractive. Have you ever seen an overweight traveler? Okay don't answer that. But generally speaking, travelers are people constantly on the move. They surf, ride bikes, climb mountains and swim like fish (and can sometimes drink like one too). Living healthy, balanced lives where they can continue to explore at high speed is a top priority.

Travelers know how to have some serious fun. Because travelers are not bogged down by expectations or convention, they are deemed fearless. They like being themselves in places where hardly anyone knows them. They can go crazy partying one night and cliff diving the next.

For all the travelers out there, whether your arm is covered with monogrammed cufflinks or beaded bracelets. Whether you stay at crappy backpacker hostels or book luxury tours.

I'd like to tell you that you are sexy.

And that the more you travel, the sexier you’ll get. Because you’ll be going to more interesting places, doing more unconventional things and growing that sexy confidence you have.

Not convinced? Who among you has dated a traveler? Raise your hands! Who among you has ALWAYS dated a traveler? Both my hands are raised.

I rest my case.

Loving the sexy traveler life,

Sole Sister Lois

This post is an entry to the Pinoy Travel Bloggers’ Blog Carnival for February 2012. The theme for this month’s carnival is: Why You Should Date a Traveler. This month’s blog carnival is hosted by Lauren of EpicPotato.

Main photo credit: marcooooo

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My New York Apartment Dreams Came True!

Back when I was still living in New York, I always dreamed of having my very own apartment in Manhattan. Even just a shoe box of a place that would allow me to explore the city until sunrise without the hassle of stumbling into a train in the middle of the night just to take the last ride home.

So when Roomorama offered to be our official short term accommodations partner, I couldn't resist booking a place in the swanky neighborhood of East Village! I wanted to be close to the eclectic restaurants, vibrant night scene and quaint boutiques.

My New York apartment dreams came true!

For a couple of days at least. For those have not yet heard of Roomorama (shame on you!), it's the best way to explore a city! You can choose to stay at a local's place, usually for less than the price of a hotel, and soak in the authentic experience. Their website is safe and so easy to use. Just type in where you want to go and it will list all the properties they have in that area. It even refines your search by price range, neighborhood and amenities!

Location, Location, Location!

I chose the East Village which was away from the tourist traps and also because it was just a few blocks away from a place I frequented in my past life: Rockwood Music Hall. I enjoyed listening to some of the most talented independent artists that changed every hour. And only for the price of a glass of wine!

When I met my host Bruce, he was very helpful. He told me there are about 100 restaurants, bars and shops all within 3 blocks in any direction from the apartment! That got me really excited because after all, this is the city that never sleeps and neither should I! True enough, the neighborhood got very lively after the sundown. There was a variety of restaurants, cafes and bars. I could choose from Indian, Russian, Italian, Mexican, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Vegetarian and American restaurants- you name it.

All these options of global cuisine were within a 5 block radius!

Beautiful Surprise

And just when I thought I was the luckiest traveler in the world, Bruce told me: "Go up to the rooftop, a surprise awaits you. Bring your camera." Like a 5 year old, I rushed to the elevator and up the 14 floors of the modern residential building. I climbed a flight of stairs that lead to the balcony. A shriek of delight escaped my lips.

I was looking at a spectacular panoramic view of New York City on the roof deck!

From there I could look out to the Brooklyn Bridge, the east and west village sprawled in front of me and midtown, as marked by the Empire State building, glistening in the winter sunlight.

The Perfect Host

I went back down to thank my host Bruce for a beautiful welcome back to my favorite city in the world. He showed me around the place, gave me a key, a few resto recommendations and asked for my breakfast preference. At first, I wondered if he would be staying in the 2nd bedroom while I was there.

As a solo female traveler, I always have to look out for myself.

But after leaving my breakfast choices later that day along with some brochures and a map, he was gone. I never saw him again for the duration of my stay. He gave me his cell number and told me to inform the doorman (yes, the building had it's own doorman) if I needed help on anything.

He was very respectful of my privacy.

The Apartment

I had the master's bedroom to myself. The bed had freshly laundered sheets and I had blankets and comforters to keep me warm in the height of winter. The room was spacious enough for Manhattan standards and it came with a breakfast area that doubled as my work space. The place was tastefully decorated and very clean, especially the bathroom, which was important to me. It didn't have a full kitchen though. Only a fold-able table, fridge, coffee maker and an assortment of utensils. But I hardly ate there since I had a hundred restaurants to choose from.

Juicy Perks

Waking up to brewed coffee, fresh bagels, milk and orange juice was one of the perks of staying at this Roomarama rental. The perfect location and the spectacular view really jazzed up the experience. Add a thoughtful and respectful host to this picture and I got what any traveler in this part of the world could only hope for: an exciting, fabulous weekend where you feel like a New Yorker!

Officially a Roomorama fan,

Sole Sister Lois

Roomorama is the official short term rentals partner of Sole Sisters. This New York apartment was provided by the awesome team at Roomorama who has properties all over the world. If you would like to stay at the apartment mentioned in this story you can find it online here: West Inn2- East Village.

Next time, I'll be checking out Roomorama rentals in Australia and Spain. Watch out for more reviews in the coming months!

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Inspired Travel Thursdays: Following Palin's Himalaya

View from the plane flying into Kathmandu, Nepal

What is THE inspiration that fuels your journeys, Sole Sisters? Is it a favorite song or music video, a colorful postcard or unforgettable scene from a movie?

Welcome to the newest series on Sole Sisters: Inspired Travel Thursdays where we feature trips that were sparked by a book, snatches from a poem, lyrics from a song or even a person!

Paul Xymon Garcia, a language lover, travel writer and photographer shares how he unwittingly follows in the footsteps of BBC television presenter Michael Palin with serendipitous twists and turns from India to Nepal.

To say that my travels have been inspired by Michael Palin’s Himalaya would be a bit of a stretch. I did see the four-part BBC series and eventually read his memoir that came with it, and I have been somehow following his journey in parts since October last year. However, most of it, heck, all of it, was purely and absolutely incidental.

December 2010 was when we bought those one way tickets to India. A friend and I had been toying with the idea of long-term travel—backpacking, if you will—for about some time then. I didn’t want to admit it until I had to. When I had to, I felt I had made the right decision. I was going backpacking for six months through India, Nepal, Southeast Asia and China. We planned our routes, planned them day and night, planned them til the cows came home. Little did we know that when you’re traveling for such an extended period of time, plans rarely go as you imagine them to be.

Norbulingka Institute, Dharamsala, India

Dharamsala, India

We touchdown in India, intent on seeing the Thar desert, our first real desert experience, in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. We were so intent on getting our Arabian Nights on that we booked our train tickets there three months beforehand. The travel gods had other plans, however. So we missed our train. Yes, the one time we arrived late was the one time the Indian transportation system was on time.

We talked about contingency plans until we agreed on a place in India’s Himalayan province up north—Dharamsala. That was the first time we were to step on Mr. Palin’s footsteps. After our 14-hour bus ride up on precarious mountain slopes and dusty roads, we had arrived, in a township called McLeod Ganj. We had wanted to come here because this is a part of India that was completely different from the rest of it. It’s not Hindu, nor Muslim.

It’s Tibetan.

Fearing persecution from Chairman Mao’s Cultural Revolution, the Dalai Lama flees in the dead of the night to India and settles in here, in the Himalayan foothills of McLeod Ganj. Ever since then, Tibetans from the old country have made the cold, dangerous pilgrimage there, too. McLeod Ganj is now the base of the Tibetan government in exile.

Tibetan Museum, McLeod Ganj, Dharamsala, India

Seeing Tibet, represented in all the stupas, the prayer wheels, the prayer flags and the gentle Tibetan people, settled in the heart of India was good enough. But then it got better. We discovered through dalailama.com (yes, it’s an official website) that His Holiness, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, was not traveling the world as he usually does, but rather was staying here for a few days. He was giving a lecture at the request of Buddhist pilgrims from Korea, and it was open to the public. So we saw the Dalai Lama, like Michael Palin did. His encounter was a one-on-one interview, sure, but ours was good enough. The best part was, none of it was planned.

Amritsar, India

After spending a few days in Dharamsala, we knew we had to come down the mountain again. I personally did not want to do another 14-hour bus ride back to the Indian capital, New Delhi. So we figured we stop by another non-Hindu city in India. This time, it was a Sikh city—the holy city of Amritsar in Punjab province, bordering Pakistan.

We only realized it in hindsight that Michael Palin also passed through this place. In fact, he entered India from Pakistan through the Lahore-Amritsar border crossing at Wagah. The funny thing about the Wagah border crossing was that every evening, the Pakistan Rangers and the Indian Border Security Force participate in a mutual, very aggressive and quite bizarre, border-closing ceremony. A bit of arm-flailing, feet stomping and you have yourself a veritable display of friendly yet chauvinistic pomp and pageantry for the entire world to see. Go ahead, google it. You’ll see.

Annapurna Sanctuary, Nepal

You didn’t think that we’d get ourselves to this part of the world and not see the highest of the highest of them, did you? Part of our original itinerary was to go to Nepal and trek to the base camp of the highest mountain in the world. The trek to the Everest Base Camp (EBC) is a 14-day arduous undertaking to altitudes above 5,000 meters above sea level. It’s hard on the knees, and at those oxygen-deprived heights, on the heart and lungs. Why we wanted to do that? I’m not sure. But to begin the task, we needed to fly to the jump-off point for the trek, Lukla, whose airport is notorious for its unpredictable weather.

So once again, the travel gods had other plans.

We waited eight hours to board the plane, but weather never cleared so we never got off the ground. Flight was cancelled that day, and the next. At this point, we knew we had to trek someplace else. So from EBC, we were now doing ABC—Annapurna Base Camp, so called the Annapurna Sanctuary Trek because at the base camp, you get a 360-degree view of nothing but the snowy peaks of the high Himalayas, an amphitheater of white mountains. We reached the sanctuary, worse for wear and enjoyed every single minute of the experience. And yes, you guessed it. Michael Palin also did this trek.

It’s really funny how things worked out the way they did. You make all your plans and you obsess about them, then due to things beyond your control, they change the last minute. So what’s next in Michael Palin’s itinerary? There’s Tibet, Bhutan, Assam and Bangladesh, but I’m not going to any of those places, at least, not yet. I’m going to Yunnan in Southwest China, where Michael Palin also went.

Unless the travel gods have other more amazing plans, in which case, sign me up!

Paul Xymon Garcia is a typical twenty-something Filipino born and bred in the big chaotic capital of Manila, Philippines. Having discovered his linguistic abilities post-college, he became a language professional, creating materials for ESL students and mastering the Spanish language along the way. Now, he is a Spanish translator who does writing and photography gigs on the side as he embarks on the biggest adventure of his life. If you can't get enough of his stories, follow his adventures on Walk Fly Pinoy.

Would you like to contribute to the Inspired Travel Thursdays Series? Whatever or whoever inspires you to just go, do let us know! Send us an email at solesisters(dot)weare(at)gmail(dot)com.

Get a FREE copy of the Sole Sister Guide to Planning an Epic Trip by subscribing to our newsletter. You can also hang out with us online on Twitter, Facebook & Stumble Upon.

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Sole Sisters on SEA Backpacker's Magazine

Another reason why you should start blogging NOW: Get noticed by publications who can give you writing assignments or publish your travel photos.

Ever since we've read the cover article of the incredible Fliptravels duo on the pages of Southeast Asia Backpacker's Magazine, we've been wanting the same for ourselves. So I got a big Valentine's Day surprise when I found a corrugated box waiting for me at the breakfast table:

It contained 2 copies of the magazine with our I love Pai article inside!

Pai was the cutest jewel box of a town that we have stumbled upon in Thailand. And we love that more travelers will get to discover it for themslves. If you're looking for a place to relax, take long walks around a picturesque town and enjoy a cappuccino while you read your free copy of Southeast Asia Backpacker's Magazine, then Pai is the perfect place in Thailand for that.

I was lucky enough to meet their Editor in Chief, Nikki Scott, when she was in Manila last month and she is a well traveled, fabulous backpacker! (Who seems to enjoy glampacker trips every once in a while). Thanks Southeast Asia Backpacker's Team for publishing our piece! Copies are now out on news stands! You can also order the current issue or subscribe online at southeastasiabackpacker.com

If you want to win a copy of the Jan-Feb issue of the Southeast Asia Backpacker's magazine, just answer this question: What is the most romantic place in Southeast Asia that you want to visit this year? Post your answers on the comments section below. You may answer as many times with different answers as you want. Every comment counts as an entry. I'll randomize the entries on Sunday, Feb 19, 2012 and choose a winner. Good luck backpackers!

Dearly missing Pai,
Sole Sister Lois

Get a FREE copy of the Sole Sister Guide to Planning an Epic Trip by subscribing to our newsletter. You can also hang out with us online on Twitter, Facebook & Stumble Upon.

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20 Photos to Inspire Location Independence

Location independence according to wikipedia is a lifestyle design that utilizes new technology to allow people to live and work wherever they want- be it from home, the internet cafe, on the beach, or even from the other side of the world.

Right now, we have access to technology that can help build communities, online businesses and reach out to a global audience. With a laptop and decent internet access, ANYONE can just work and travel their way around the globe simultaneously!

Did that thought just send shivers down your spine like it did to mine?

You can earn a living off of your website, write and take photos for publications, pick up a few odd jobs here and there and choose among these 64 possibilities from Corbett Barr. You can even do fruit picking, volunteer at an organic farm or put on those medical scrubs. And I'm sure you're creative enough to add more to the list!

But what does it mean for me?

Being location independent means I have the freedom to finally travel to wherever I want and not have to go broke in the middle of a backpacking trip, stealing food from a $2 buffet table in a closed off country with no banks. True story.

Few of you may know that it's been my goal to be location independent this year.

I've been wanting focus on things that matter most to me and be able to continue traveling for longer periods of time. I'm slowly getting there, but not quite yet. I'll share my journey towards location independence and making a living doing what I love very soon on my new blog: Passion in Action.

But for now, I've asked a few friends to share photos of places that inspire them to take that BIG step towards freedom, passion and location independence. This is our small way of inspiring you and each other to get ready for change and live life on our own terms.

We hope you are reading this, Universe. Enjoy!

Cabo Frio, Brasil by Gay Mitra-Emami of Pinay Travel Junkie

Nasugbu Batangas, Philippines Pinoy Adventurista

Nasugbu Batangas, Philippines by Pinoy Adventurista

Zhongdian, China by Flip Nomad

Siem Reap, Cambodia by Doi Domasian of The Travelling Feet

Disneyland Hong Kong by Eileen Campos by Possibly Pinay

Waitakere Ranges, New Zealand by Rain Amantiad of Destination: Everywhere

Angkor Wat, Cambodia by Wendell Cagape of Journeys and Travels

Angkor Wat, Cambodia by Micaela Rodriguez of Senyorita

Patar White Beach, Philippines by Josh Uy of Intsik Boy

Bellarocca Resort, Marinduque Philippines by Upper Viceo

Bella Roca Resort, Marinduque Philippines by Upper Viceo of Chasing Uhambo

Pagudpud, Philippines by Nikka Corsino of Nikka's Notes

Morong Bataan, Philippines by Elal Jane Lasola of The Shades of Grey

Zambales, Philippines by Mark Chino of Juanderful Pinoy

Benguet Philippines by Darwin Cayetano of Tracking Treasure

Calcutta, India by Mary Grace Chavez Bangoy of This Grasya on the Road

Guimaras, Philippines by Marky Go of Nomadic Experiences

Siem Reap, Cambodia by Edcel Suyo of Solo Flight Ed

Donsol, Philippines by Mhe Anne Ojeda of My Comings and Goings

Dublin, Ireland by Josh Cohen of Open Journey

Camarines Sur, Philippines by Rogelio Gabiano of Pinoy Travel Freak

Are you inspired yet? If you want to share your own photos that inspire you to become location independent and dream of living anywhere in the world, please post it on our facebook wall.

Dreaming of a nomadic life,

Sole Sister Lois

Get a FREE copy of the Sole Sister Guide to Planning an Epic Trip by subscribing to our newsletter. You can also hang out with us online on Twitter, Facebook & Stumble Upon.

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