Edibles!

Temple festival to a night market… What a day!

Posted on October 23, 2012 by erikamae82

Even though there’s no secret pass word or handshake to get through the entrance, I was still honored to partake in this day at a festival in a temple. If I was traveling without a local, I would of been a bit hesitant to shuffle on in and check it out, but after being invited, I was all in!

On the outside is where you purchase they special made Poa that you bring into the temple to pray with.

Before entering, you’re senses are taken over by the amount of insence that is being burned. Each participate has their own bundle in which they carry around to each pot for prayer and distribute them amongst the different statues. These are just some of the sights outside of the temple.

Time to go in and lay out your offerings, light your incense, and begin prayer.

I wish I could read this:

After this eye opening experience, Kuldip surprised me with the perfect ending to our day…. A night market!

Similar to the morning market, there are several vendors with stalls prepared for whatever you desire. Fruit, veggies, hot meals, and sweet treats. This isn’t including all of the clothes, shoes, bags, tools, and other random objects that are displayed to grab your attention.

If you read my last post, “A ray of green light in Malaysia”, under the edibles page, you’ll find the struggle I’ve been having with the amount of fried, grease soaked and sugar based choices here in Malaysia. Tonight didn’t fall short of some prime examples.

Will start with some treats. The photos I didn’t capture this evening were the cakes, pastries, fried sugar, and fresh fruit that was soaking in sugar water. However, I did snag a few I hadn’t seen so far in Malaysia.

This is a fresh soy milk stand. They pour it directly into a bag then puncture it with a straw… Viola, a drink!

Before you see the next stall, I suggest you stand up and do a few jumping jacks first to get your cardiovascular system pumping.

This is a deep fry station. Already prepared for you on a stick is a variety of veggies, egg, tofu, fish or other kind of meats. You pick your sticks then drop them in the deep fryer. When you think they’re done, you pull them out and follow with the spicy cream sauce provided. Although this is not my ideal “snack” I just wanted to play! I snagged a green leaf stick that had a piece of fish on the end. Well… At least I tried it right?

Ok, maybe you should get down and rack out a set of push ups before this next one. A Chinese hamburger. A fried egg, cheese, deli ham with spicy sauce held together between two pancakes. I should of asked what the “chicken floss” was…

Here is a range of other offered items along the markets path. (Baby not for sale in the last photo).

Wait… What’s this?! A thin wrap lined with a non creamy spicy sauce, layered with fresh lettuce, raw jicama and cucumber, complimented with sprouts, and your choice of a vegetarian or fish mix… I found dinner!

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: Festival, food, Malaysia, market, night, Poa, spring roll, temple | Leave a comment

A ray of green light in Malaysia!

Posted on October 22, 2012 by erikamae82

Hopefully it’s clear from my writing that I like to focus on the positive that surrounds my existence. From the vibrant people to exotic places, new food to priceless adventure, I hardly have anything to complain about.
So acknowledging that, please read the following post knowing that I mean it with love and great intention.

Something here in Malaysia that I’ve had a hard time adapting to is the eating habits. If you’ve been following my journey for awhile, you’ve seen my creative way to stay healthy by purchasing my own fresh food and choosing wisely with portion control if I indulge in local treats. The food here has a tempting aroma, the right price and a variety that lines the streets everywhere you go. The struggle I have, is the way it’s all prepared. Fresh greens and herbs? Yes! However it’s usually over cooked and covered in oil. Of course there’s fresh fish… deep fried. Rice noodles, egg noddles, flat noodles… accompanied with pork, chicken, fish paste, and more oil. Below is an example plate of fish, greens and grains. Doesn’t that sound like it should be full of nutrients, vitamins and goodies for your body? It was, until they prepared it. I also asked for a serving of “one person”.

Here is a popular stand at the local night market. On a stick you can find a variety of tofu, vegetables, fish and other meats all prepared and ready to be cooked. When I say “cooked” I wish I was talking about grilled or steamed, but here is the deep fry station. You dip the stick in the oil and then finish it off with the sauce of your choice.

Time to turn this post around and introduce you to the ray of sunshine I stumbled upon…
As I walked down to the local market to pick up some fruit, I was taken back by the green walls and white teeth of smiles. What’s this?! A wellness cafe not only serving up aloe, tea and vitamin dense shakes but happy people chatting about a healthy world. Take a look around!

The gentleman sitting at the bar is a native here and is beyond familiar with the local lifestyle. Marcel, a new partner in the world of health, found this little green heaven just in time after being diagnosed as a diabetic.

Ironically I just saw on a local news report that over 60% of Malaysians aged 18 and up, had a BMI over 25. (A BMI of more than 25 means the person is overweight). Following that they explained that although North America has a higher rate obesity, Malaysia has a higher rate of diabetes.

Meet Brian. He has a contagious love for nutrition and extreme desire to open the minds of the local people to a new way of living… Healthy!

His enthusiasm towards health and his passion for life was nothing short of positive motivation! As I enjoyed my smoothy, he pleasantly shared his story from beginning to present and the journey that lead him here.

I don’t want to exaggerate numbers or dwell on percentages, I feel the point should be focused on necessary knowledge to create change. That my friends, is why I was so uplifted by this room full of kind hearts and energetic minds. Thank you Green Forest for the much needed and refreshing conversation. This also includes the scrumptious start this beautiful day!

If you have any interest in contacting this ray of sunshine, please email me and I will connect you directly!

Categories: Edibles! | Tags: diet, food, health, Herbal life, Malaysia, nutrition, Penang, travel | 2 Comments

White Coffee and Egg tarts in Ipoh, Malaysia!

Posted on October 21, 2012 by erikamae82

Within just a few kilometers out of the city, the earth of Malaysia is starting to expose itself. A few pics of the road trip from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh.

We follow a few cozy streets that lead us to her families home. Shoes off at the door before entering (they have an amazing ability to step out of slippers without missing a beat) to find a warm kitchen with food on the table. Homemade chicken bone soup, rice noodles and veggies. I also got a sneak peak of Poa, a slightly sweet, very soft dumplings (reminds me of wonder white bread) that’s filled with either a curry meet, veggies or a sweet delight.

Here, it’s typical to literally wake up and go to the street market to collect your food for the day. What’s for breakfast? I don’t know yet, we’ll see what the vendors brought this morning and what seems to be the freshest!

Who doesn’t get dressed up to head to the market?! Meet Kuldip’s niece, a sparkling firecracker of energy with a sugary little smile. First lip stick, a wardrobe change and then a hair piece to match the bedazzling!

Off we go!

Fruit (I purchased two new ones that I had never seen before, it’s like opening a present!) and veggies…
I got to watch this woman, clean, cut and basket the fresh veggies to sell (not comparable to the pre-washed plastic bagged salads you get from the supermarket).

I’d like to think that I have a fairly strong stomach considering back in my coaching days, I’ve set broken bones, bandaged open wounds and literally caught vomit in my hands.
Well folks, today as we were strolling along I heard the sound of a chicken. As I gazed over and focused in on what what my ears had noticed, I felt my stomach hit my throat.
Take notice to the lid of fresh feathers on the left and the pile of feet to the right. Enough said.

On a lighter note… some random local treats!

Finished up with baggies of breakfast and we head back to indulge. People who own a vehicle here typically have hooks behind their seats to hold the bags up-right.

The drink above is something I had never seen before. It’s slightly sweetened soy milk with grass jelly and red beans over ice. It…is…delicious!

As if this morning wasn’t amazing enough, we head through some city streets for a well known pastry and the famous Ipoh White Coffee. “White”, not meaning a mocha or fancy flavored coffee, but a the name is actually referring to the way the bean is roasted.
Traditionally, Malaysian style “black” coffee is produced by roasting the beans with sugar, margarine and wheat. “White” coffee is produced with only margarine and without any sugar, resulting in a less dark roast. They add a splash of condensed milk and serve it hot or cold. Scrumptious!

Below is some pics from the journey there, a glass of chilled white coffee and the local pastry that we patiently stood in line for. People were crowding closer behind me as these velvety, custard filled, flaky warm crusted delights emptied from the tray (I actually got the last one!). Apparently “Ipoh’s Egg Tarts” are the most popular dessert item here and of course Kuldip knew of the best place to get them!

Although this can be a popular destination for locals to host weddings or other celebrations, it’s hardly known to the public eye and certainly not on the front page of any tour brochures. Thank you Kuldip!

Categories: Accommodations, Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: egg tarts, Ipoh, live chicken, Malaysia, market, Poa, waterfall, White coffee | Leave a comment

City to night life in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Posted on October 19, 2012 by erikamae82

The captain comes on and announces our arrival, first in Malay then in English. This is when my heart picks up pace and I feel those familiar butterflies come alive in my stomach. I can’t believe I’m landing in Malaysia right now! Why here? Ill skip the first dozen reasons that include but are not limited to the culture, jungles, beaches, food, and so on…. and remind you of my new friend Kuldip. I met this fellow backpacker while we were volunteering together in New Zealand. We shared a log cabin along with daily chores that ranged from cleaning and gardening to canning jars of marmalade. Here are some recap photos from February in Akaroa, New Zealand.

Our shared cabin, working away and goofing off!

You can imagine the length of conversation we had during our days of work and hours of tea time. Often we’d share cultural fun facts about our home towns following up with an open invite if either of us ever want to visit. Most of you know me well enough by now that with an offer like that… I’m there! Well actually, I’m here!

The first 48 hours consisted of errand running due to the fact that she’s leaving in two weeks to live in Australia for a year. No worries to me though, I’ve enjoyed riding along to see what the city life in Malaysia looks like.

The following are pictures from the passenger seat (in motion and with the windows up, so I apologize for the lack of extreme clarity).

Yes Malaysia, you kept the streak going… Irish Pub!

A peak of green in the city as we pass by a local park.

For the first few meals, we checked out some street food. I’m so thankful to be here with a local who can look first and say, “No, too expensive” or “Not fresh enough” or “This is the best vendor in the city!”.

I happen to have come at the right time as this night was a double celebration out on the town. Her friends birthday and another couple was sharing their 5th wedding anniversary with everyone!

The club we went to actually offered free makeup and complimentary professional photos. Pretty neat way to start off the festivities!

Quick shout out to the DJ duo that kept the crowd alive! It was absolutely refreshing to dance to their mix. Well done! Thank you Werner’s on Changkat!

Random snap pictures from the balcony and a quick set of new friends!

Here are some of our posed professional photos followed by all the action shots!

I should admit that when I dreamt of Malaysia, sky scrapers and smog didn’t jump into my vision. Now realizing that she lives in the capital city, I’m understanding the traffic jams and the amount of McDonalds I see. Although I enjoyed the experience here in Kuala Lumpur, I’m definitely ready to get out of the city lights and see what else this beauitful place has to offer.

Tomorrow we leave for Ipoh to visit her family… That means green trees, waterfalls, home cooked meals, traditional street markets and more trees!

Categories: Edibles!, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: city, club, Dance, eat drink, makeup, Malaysia, photographer, street food, traffic | 2 Comments

Bajans in Frankfurt and Americans in Wiesbaden

Posted on October 16, 2012 by erikamae82

Who gets up before sunrise, takes a train to one of the largest international airports with fingers crossed in hopes that they can find a friend in passing just for a hug? Ooh, pick me pick me! (pretend my hand was eagerly raised like a hyper school girl).

This is the segway polo team that I met at the world cup in California, celebrated with them during crop over in Barbados and now get a 20 minute visit with them in the Frankfurt airport.
As I left the hostel, a fellow backpacker asks if I want her to come with me to help spot out the group. With a small giggle I explain how no “help” would be needed. Not because there was a dozen of them but due to their unforgettable accent and natural energy, I can feel them from afar!
Here we are in years past.

Sure enough, I could hear the sweet sounds of the Bajan tone as they approached the departure counter. A couple of quick pics and priceless hugs before they head back to the sunny island of Barbados.

This beautiful couple is always shining from the inside out. Great friends (and hair clients) from Folsom that have traveled the distance to participate in the Euro Segway cup with the Bajans. What an extra bonus to snag a hug from these warm smiles before they head back to the west coast of North America.

This was the start of my last day in Frankfurt… Perfect! Now for some city sights:

We lost points on our driving test in the States if our tire even swiped the curb… They post signs of encouragement here!

For the few who know and understand my love for Cherimoya, you can imagine the excitement I had to control when I spotted out these at a local health food store. It’s a fruit from South America that became a part of my regular diet when I was volunteering in Peru. Since then, I only dream of it in my best nights sleep. Not today, I get to indulge… Does that means it’s a “dream come true”?

Although this shop looked tempting, I was too busy with my cherimoya so here’s a couple pictures from the outside.

What’s this? A double surprise! I do believe my dear friend Tiffany is the only person on this earth who can fully appreciate the fact that I found Dinkles! Last year, she allowed me to,stop on every German health food store with high hopes in relocating these treats I had discovered the year prior. They’re made of spelt, with only a few ingredients and no additives. Oh happy days!

A jog around Frankfurt before my final stop in Weisbaden . Here’s what I caught when I actually remembered that I had a camera on me!

Love the love!

My jog led me to the botanical gardens which was the perfect cool down. I misuse through the rose garden to get to the cactus showing. Spent most of my time in the hibiscus room and enjoyed watching everyone near the water. If you come to Frankfurt, this is a great escape from the city.

On the way out I snagged a sample of this basil spread on a pumpkin seed cracker. They asked which jam I wanted to try so I picked then one that all the bees were in… It must be their favorite right?

My last weekend in Germany was spent in the city of Wiesbaden. I don’t have many pictures to show you because honestly I was too busy enjoying the peace of staying in a home with a couple that I absolutely adore. This is Brooke and Tim, an American duo finishing up their 3rd year stationed here.

Tim is a proud man serving his country with an abundance of energy and the ability to quote any comedic line from a film to make the room laugh. So refreshing! Brooke is one of those people on earth that quickly makes an impression much farther than the surface. She naturally exudes a calm warmth that extends throughout her household with an outlook on life that comes from hard work and self discipline. I felt comfortable with them last year and even more so this year.

Here is Brooke, Tiffany and I last October, followed by Brooke and I this trip.

First things up, I got to play babysitter! Funny how things are so exciting when they’re removed from your usual routine. I even got to cut the hair of this little guys mom as well, Thank you!

They took me to a Market Bizarre that was put on by the families from the Army base, definitely a different experience that I’ve ever had.

Tim, you crack me up. Brooke, you make my heart smile. I look forward to the next path crossing… Hoping it will be somewhere new!

Next stop is Malaysia! I’ll be staying with Kuldip, a backpacker I met in New Zealand. During our volunteering she invited me for a visit which of course I dare not pass up… See ya soon Kuldip!
Here we are last February on the South Island of New Zealand.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: Barbados, city, Dinkles, garden, Germany, Malaysia, orchids, park, Segway | 1 Comment

Surprise trip to Recklinghausen!

Posted on September 22, 2012 by erikamae82

I took a small detour from Holland to visit my dear friends Carina and Florian in the small German town of Recklinghausen. I met them back at my very first Oktoberfest and have kept in touch ever since. Here we are last year in Munich at Oktoberfest.

Instead of meeting up at Oktoberfest again, they invited me to their home town for more of a personal visit. (Turns out it’s kind of tricky to really connect during the dancing on picnic tables, singing German songs while balancing your stein of beer in one hand and a giagantic pretzel in the other.

Rather than jumping directly into the photos of my 48 hours of Recklinghausen, let’s all sit for a short story of “Proper English by the Dutch.”

To get to my sweet friends I had to take a train from Amsterdam to Munster, then another from Munster to Recklinghausen. I’ve gotten pretty comfortable In my abilities with public transportation because well, it’s all I use now. I have my 8:50am ticket to Munster in my hand as I shuffle through my bag when the train pulls up. I double check the watch in my purse… 8:50. European trains, on time as always!
I skip on board (maybe I just walked, but I felt like skipping) and sat down for the 3 hour journey. The train pulls away jusy as my eyes catch the well lit number clock above the schedule sign… 8:48, Oh no. This may be the first time a watch set 2 minutes fast will cost me. Once I put my stomach back to it’s orginal position, I gathered my thoughts and decide to go back to Amsterdam to catch the next train in then correct direction.
You can imagine at this point that I’m a little more assertive when making the decision to board but with confidence this time, I’m on my way!
A solid hour into the ride, we make a 4 min stop which gives me time to confirm my future transitions.Wonderful, a kind looking gentleman in uniform stands by at the station, he”ll validate my direction form sure! I walk over not rushed, but certainly with a pace to give the idea of “Let’s not sit and chat over tea.”

The conversation goes as follows:
Me: “Excuse me sir, am I on the correct train”? (as I show him my ticket).
Him: “No mam…”
This is when my stomach returns to it’s dropped lower sick position.
Him: As he cocks his head slightly to the side, “You’re in the right train.”

With little time to figure out if this frustrated me or tickled me, I continue:
Me: “Ok great, will they call out my stop?”
Him: “I’m sorry no…they will not call it out.” With no eye contact at all, he finishes his thought.
Him: “They will announce it upon arrival.”
Me: “Thank you for your help.”
My inner thoughts: “Aahhhhhhhh!!”

I actually don’t remember if I did or said anything here besides a smile and thank you. Either way, looking back it makes me giggle.

Ok, on to my amazing time with Carina, Florian and new friends Sebastian and Julia.

Upon arrival I was warned that the only neat thing in Reckinghausen is the flat of Carina and Sebastian. I knew they were correct judging by the front door…

Check this place out!

The beautiful woman in the frame is Carina!

Couldn’t leave this place without a few pics with effects.

For the bathroom, can you pick out his and hers?

They love to recycle!

As soon as I arrive they have a spread of fresh ingredients for us to make our own sushi. What a perfect start!

I was informed during dinner that their favorite futbol team was playing and we were headed to a local joint to watch it, score! If you know me at all, you know I was game to dive into the appropriate jersey and cheer when necessary. I also mastered how to say the team name and where they were from (just in case I was questioned… Which I was). Wooohoo BVB!

The following day we went for a little “sport”, as they call it. Carina showed me the highest point in Recklinghausen where the Horizont-Observatorium sits. There are over 500 steps that lead to the 360 degree panoramic view.

Side note- On the way there I pulled over to ask in all seriousness,
“Is the second set of random letters a real word… and if so, how do you say it?”.
Turns out it is! If you’d like to hear what it sounds like, I suggest you find a German friend to read it to you.

The start to our mini climb.

Up we go to the first level where you can rest and sneak a peak of the panoramic view. I personally found the fence more intriguing. This is fairly traditional in Belgium but I’d never seen it here. Couples take a key lock, some even have it engraved, and together as a symbol of their commitment, they attach the bolt to the fence and toss the key. In Belgium it’s done over rivers and canals. I wonder where these keys went? Either way I think it’s the closest thing to marriage that I’m comfortable with so far… Maybe.

After this level we turned around to find this inviting set of stairs. Let’s do it!

At the top, we reach a view stretching as far as you can see! I’m still learning the panoramic setting on my camera, but you get the idea.

This enormous man made structure is the Observatorium shown on the diagram above. It also ended up being the pick for the handstand photo. Can you see me?

For lunch, the crew decides to show me one of their favorite meals, currywurst with french fries and mayonnaise. “Sure!”
(Please feel free to insert whatever face you think I made followed by a clearing of the throat).

Carina’s plates is on the right and my dish is on the left. I ordered beets, saurkrauat and a homemade dill coleslaw. (Yes, I tried hers and “No thank you” was my response).

Florian’s plate before…

…and after.

To wrap up my last night, Carina bundles me up and leads the way to the roof for the sunset.

That cool design in the distance is the Observatorium from our earlier climb earlier.

I found these two pictures for a fun comparison. The first is a shot from last year then followed by a photo from my recent visit.

As always, I want to thank my amazing friends for the extremely warm welcome, fun food, and the opportunity to experience the local life in Germany. Turns out they all don’t wear dirndls and drink from steins everyday. Florian and Carina, I’m so thankful I met you years ago and even more grateful that we’ve stayed in touch. Next round is on me! Tschuss!

Categories: Accommodations, Edibles!, Uncategorized | 2 Comments

A BIG reunion in Holland

Posted on September 19, 2012 by erikamae82

I’m looking forward to showing the beautiful city of Amsterdam and the friendly country of Holland (yes, there’s more to this place than the red-light district and cheese). But for now, I’m excited to share my most recent reunion.

Denise and I met by rooming together in Alicante Spain while studying Spanish last fall. Here we are a year ago. (Almost to the date!)

Then we got to see each other again when I passed through Holland about a month later. Here we are in Amsterdam where we dreamt that maybe someday we could gather again in a different country.

When you want something bad enough… You make it happen. Five months later we met at the front door of our own apartment while volunteering and studying in Buenos Aires.

A few from volunteering at a local orphanage.

This is one of my favorites snap shots after getting our hair done by one the young girls… Gorgeous!

This is the location we met Ioni, another Dutch girl that happen to be in the same school. It was an easy friendship right off the bat as the three of us quickly connected and made priceless memories. I could make an entire post reminiscing of our month in Argentina… But here’s 3 pics instead.

Since both of the girls are from Holland, it was decided that we would reunite someday near Amsterdam. Viola! 6 months later we are getting ready for a night on the town!

A colorful night of bright smiles and positive people!

This club played your typical American top 40 hits and a variety of who know what hits from Holland. I'm a fan of most music, however the Dutch music of the evening sent me directly back to the childhood memory of being at a carnival debating if I liked clowns or not… Weird.

I’m only putting one photo of the actual city at night because I want to save the rest for the future amazing night life post!

Fun photo!

To recover from the 4am arrival of the evening seen above, we decided to hit a flea market on the outskirts for an entertaining walk. I didn’t snag any photos of Denise’s good friend Jella or her sister Manouk, but there will plenty more of them later.

To get to the market do we bus, train, cab or tram? Oh it’s convertible time!

We don’t need hats…we’re wild and crazy girls!

Ok, maybe a little hair control is needed…

Hmmm, just the bangs back?

All right, that’s it… Scarves it is!

The entrance is a small example of the popularity of bicycles here. It’s very typical to have more bicycles in a parking lot than cars.

Like most flea markets, there are vendors providing items for all of your needs… or at least what you think you need that day because its just so cheap! From house decor, clothes, appliances, and lawn decorations to food, treats and a farmers section for fresh fruit and vegetables.

We skimmed through the house decor and lawn section. (At least that’s what I think it was).

Stopped for a pic of this awkward set up.

After being entertained by the walking band and skipping the games, we sit to eat. This is a a Turkish pizza, a thin dough smeared with a light red sauce that’s open toasted on a grill. It’s then filled with lettuce, tomato, and cucumber with your choice of spicy garlic sauces and/or your pick of meat. First time for everything!

After our meal we survive through the sweets with only a stop at a traditional Dutch pancake stand. Jella told them I was from America and had never experienced this delight before. I was handed a complimentary sample… Flag and all!

We end our mini adventure at the farmers market which of course is my favorite!

Finally a quick story. At the market we passed by this green cake that my friends starting raving about. After moments of watching them try to explain the magnitude of amazing this dessert was, we decided to grab a slice and split it so I could try what they considered to be one of the best!

Ooh I was so excited for this new fabulous flavor to hit my taste buds…

It was angel food cake.
(A sponge cake that Americans traditionally top with strawberries and cream.

Categories: Edibles!, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: Alicante, Amsterdam, Argentina, Dancing, Flea market, food, holland, reunion | 1 Comment

48 hours in Switzerland

Posted on September 17, 2012 by erikamae82

Don’t you love it when the universe hands you a unexpected surprise that takes your journey down a beautiful path that you yourself couldn’t have planned any better? Me too.

So, I’m in Spain when I get a random email from Varee. This pure hearted, open minded friend started out as a hair client of mine back in California and for years she sat in the salon chair as I cut and fluffed her hair. I looked forward to her honest words of wisdom and always welcomed her encouragement of my life choices. We shared the love of traveling which led us often joking about someday meeting up over seas.

If you have been following the blog, you’ll know a large part of my journey has been either reuniting with fellow backpackers or staying with friends that I’ve met abroad. Varee had a new one for me as she was making a whirlwind trip to Switzerland and invited me to join her! Our dates, flights and schedules happen to link up close to what some may say was “perfect”.

Before I knew it, I was on a flight and Switzerland bound to see my dear friend in a brand new destination.

We were lucky to be hosted by a delightful Swiss couple that did a fantastic job of showing us a well rounded 2 days in this gorgeous country.

Upon arrival, their kind smiles and open arms was more than a welcome needed to know right away that we would be in good hands. Our first morning Edgar and Helen started us with a breakfast spread of fresh bread, jam, cheese, meats, as well as cereal, coffee, tea and juice. I’m not sure what I enjoyed more, the food, the conversation or the wide view from the table!

During the first 24 hours we were shown around their local city of Zug that surrounds the massive lake shown above. It’s comparable but slightly smaller than Folsom Lake and can be see from the top of the mountain. To reach the peak point, there is an inviting scenic climb on a famous gondola ride pulling you up 1039 meters (3,408 ft).

Here are some photos from our walk to the base of the mountain and our journey to the peak!

Edgar stopped to join the smiles of these adorable students who, to my best guess, were on a field trip. (I think he’s the biggest kid there!)

Up up we go!

Once you reach the top there are trails to trek, cafes to rest at and views that force a picture around every turn!

I visualized myself and two best friends with linked arms looking like this in years to come. Still walking, laughing and enjoying this beautiful planet together!

I love this simple shot (with a neat camera effect) of an old Swiss house.

We stopped for a tea and treat at one of the cafes. This is a flaky crust that hugs around a center of some sort of sweetened nut mixture bound together with sugar and spices. Yum!

Waiting for the tram to head back down into town. I love her smiling eyes with the slight eyebrow lift as she was saying “I know what you’re doing Miss. Erika”.

Helen and Edgar surprised us with a private entrance through this sneaky door that led to the top of an old watch tower. This is the height of the town where the firemen would keep a look out for fires nearby. So cool!

Once you got inside it was a climb of several stairs that directed you to the lookout. Along the way I got to get inside the old jail cell where prisoners were held hundreds of years ago. I couldn’t even stand up straight inside… Imagine that for part of the punishment.

I’m not quite sure what this sign means. Is it saying, “Please enjoy a smoke while you’re in here!” or “Cigars, pipes and cigarettes only please”?

The panoramic point was a small room with a table and several windows. I can only imagine the stories that these walls could tell.

..and my favorite shot from up here (with another slight camera effect).

This day wraps up with a chilly walk to a classy restaurant where I gladly put my backpacking meals to the side and allowed myself to thoroughly enjoy the quality dishes that were served.
Here are some photos that don’t do the flavors any justice of the fabulous dining!

Day two brought a stroll through Lucerne, a nearby small city known as the gateway to central Switzerland. Excluding the rain and my brilliant thought to wear sandals, it was an eye full of fabulous sights!

100% Success so far… A pub in Switzerland!

This is the inside of one of the many churches that create a distinct beauty that seems to be everywhere. I was so excited about this shot with my camera, I forgot to snag a picture of the outside, oops!

Here is the same church and a couple of other pics.

Before departing, we made a final stop where I got to see Edgar’s original weapons used back when he was a part of the Swiss army! The first picture is me being a goof. I mainly love this picture because of the genuine smile on Varee’s face.

Thank you Helen and Edgar for the memorable days in the beautiful country you call home. I feel honored that I was lucky enough to have been a part of your life for the 2 short but thrilling days!

Varee, to say you’re “easy to travel with” or “a joy to be around” just doesn’t seem to capture the way I feel. You’ve enhanced my journey in an unexpected way and I thank you. Where to next?

Categories: Edibles!, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: Basel, Buildings, castle, dessert, firehouse, fish, lamb, lucerne, steak, Zug | 1 Comment

Feed me Spain!

Posted on September 12, 2012 by erikamae82

The number one most typical Spanish dish is Paella. For those of you who love it, you’d be bright eyed and tempted all of the time. To the ones who could do without would probably get sick of the menus, promotions and pictures advertising this local cuisine.The portions of paella served at restaurants are generally for 2-3 people or a teenage boy, so you can imagine my hesitation to order it. Instead, I cheated and took some photos of the menu pictures and a few from my friends plate. Judging from their responses and the people scraping every last crusted piece of rice from the edges, it’s a tasty choice!

Tapas and Pinchos. Another typical Spanish treat that is absolutely a delight for me! Small portions, sometimes for sharing and always the perfect snack to compliment a cold beer or glass of Sangría. To clarify: a tapa is a small plate ranging from fish, veggies and meats to olives, omlettes and anything you can fry. Pinchos are those adroarble little temptations in the windows that include a creative combination of flavors placed on a piece of fresh toasted bread.

This is Ted, a traveler we met at a hostel. I plan on reconnecting with him in Amsterdam and that’s when I’ll share his incredible story with you. For now, check out the plate in front of him. That’s Patatas bravas, roasted potatoes with an Aoli cream and hot sauce drizzles over top. An item on almost every menu.

Im not a huge fan of pig, unless I’m playing with them on a farm or reading about them talking to spiders in children’s books. This was a challenge for me due to the popularity of specialty pork products. Sometimes the judgement I felt from the locals after declining the ham was as if I had kidnapped their first born or sent a personal insult to their family. They would just kind of stare, as if to wait for me to realize what they were offering and then change my mind. “Oh BACON… Im sorry, Of course I’ll indulge!”
So for you pork lovers, here are the few pics I snagged for your delight.

Really…Next to the ice cream?

They love their desserts! Cakes, cookies, marshmallow, candy, Gelato, ice cream, pastries, pop cycles, and now growing in polarity… Drum roll please… plain frozen yogurt! (I type this while secretly jumping up and down in my head).

Ooh, just my size! (And it comes with a tourist on top!)

Now for my indulgence, Las frutas y Venduras!
It was around every corner in every city. Sometimes more than others, some with larger varieties and many offering nuts and seeds as well. They were everywhere and it made me happy!

Did I mention the fresh fish?

To sum up eating in Spain here are just some random pics that will give you an idea of the scrumptious sights that are so inviting in this beautiful country!

The boys tried to offer me their meat… Clearly I declined. Instead I got a tuna sandwich that came with hot sauce and green olives. (Side note, these were taken at a tomato festival that I'll show in detail later).

I dedicate these to my mom. This is the bar she occupied during her visit to Spain almost 20 years ago! She sent me with the printed photo to find the exact street… success! Love you

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: fish, food, fruit, meat, paella, pinches, Sangria, Spain, Tapas, venduras | 2 Comments

Scratching the surface of Madrid

Posted on August 29, 2012 by erikamae82

I’ve been having a bit of trouble with my photo uploads (good ol’ technology) so once I get it sorted I’ll be flooding the blog with striking shots and info of what Spain so far. Here is just a taste…

I loved the color contrast between the flowers and buildings.

I wasn’t surprised to see Mickey and Minnie wandering the streets, by all means they rank in popularity up there with Coca Cola and Oprah. I did however do a double take at his choice of costume… an American Flag?

This group of people have been out here in the same spot all day, everyday since I’ve arrived. Surrounded by suitcases and umbrellas, they sit and speak amongst themselves.

If you were to close your eyes and walk past this book store, you’d hear an enthusiastic elderly man explaining something (that I couldn’t understand) to a young fellow who you wouldn’t be able to hear due to his intent on grasping every word being shared with him. It was lovely.

Random shots:

These statues are placed around the city, I think they’re kind of comforting in a way.

“Yes son, that’s what Bam Bam carries around.”

I actually think I’m going to have an entire post dedicated to the food that has left a special place in my heart(and gut). These are just the a few pics that I was able to load… Dozens more to come!

This is “Plaza Mayor”, the view from the first hostel room Madrid. I’ll be describing the different hostels I’ve experienced in Spain in the future as they range quite a bit and deserve their own post, (as well as the people I met during my stay).

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: Buildings, Ham, Madrid, Mickey mouse, Plaza mayor, Spain, Tapas | 3 Comments