Fashion from a backpack

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

Last stop of the road trip, Prague!

Posted on October 9, 2012 by erikamae82

As we depart the striking city of Budapest towards Prague, we’ve got our hwy sticker passes, lap picnic snacks, tunes blaring… and NO GAS!

How did we let it get this low? In every other country so far, there was a station consistently placed for your connivence. I didn’t start to worry until I noticed the “SOS” phones that were on the side of the road every mile. A gas station! We creep into the parking lot using momentum from us rocking forward and backward while laughing in a “stress relief” fashion. We made it. Why not sneak in a handstand here! Did I mention this all happens in Slovakia?

We arrive late enough that I choose to sip hot tea in my pajamas as I say “Good luck!” to the boys as they head out for a pub crawl. Snoring sounds are common with a 8 person dorm room, but to be woken up by a block of wood to the rib cage from the bunk above you was new for me. Ok, ok.. I’m up!

The next morning was bitter-sweet as this would be the last morning here in Europe with my dear friend Marshall. (Enter sad sounds here). We were however, excited to reunite with Michael, the traveler we met in Vienna! Also joining us was a new friend from Brazil, good times!

We heard the sound of a sharp trumpet and after a 360 degree search for where this sweet sound was coming from, we looked up to find the musician perched at the top of this gorgeous building.

Handstand shot!

A walk through some shops to find yet another Irish Pub, Czech… check!

I almost thought we were going to miss out on a market… Nope, found one!

All great walks usually lead to water… So soothing yet extremely energizing!

My time is up here in Prague. I’m on my way to Frankfurt Germany to hit some major reunions as Marshall will be making his way back to the states tomorrow. He drops me off at the train station with no time for soppy goodbyes… Just enough for a monster hug, a high five and two smiles that confirm a Eurotrip well done!

Marshall, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, in my book…. you are quality energy. Your easy going vibe combined with nonstop positive enthusiasm equals a masterpiece for a perfect travel partner. Thank you for the memories, high fives, and the uncountable amount of times you saved me (and startled me) with the unforgettable “Bike lane!!”

Categories: Accommodations, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: bunk bed, clocks, Czech Republic, Prague, Pub, reunion, trumpet, walk, water | Leave a comment

Oktoberfest – Outside of the tents

Posted on October 2, 2012 by erikamae82

Our train to Munich was my first experience in a spacious sleeper cabin. When I say spacious, I mean large enough to stand next to your bag with one foot on the bed and an elbow in the sink. We had to take turns getting ready but that was a tiny price to pay for a decent nights rest and saving night in a hostel.

The first year I did this journey, I had a seat in the night train next to “Sir Snores All Night” and an innocent child that was clearly tired and miserable. The following year my dear friend Tiffany and I chose floor space in the doorway and kept ourselves entertained. Here’s a shot from that “seat”.

Considering the last trip on ground that was twice as long on a bus in South America, this sleeper car was beyond luxury!

We woke up in time to hear them announce our soon arrival, woohoo! As we hopped off the train, we find a fellow backpacker adjusting his bag… its Alan! You’ll see more of Alan later, but just know we met him in the hostel back in Amsterdam. All of his friends had bailed so he was traveling solo for this portion of his trip. Not now, he happen to meet us at the right time in the right place! What a coincidence. You all know I don’t believe in those, so what a perfect path crossing!

He joined us for a walk around Munich before we parted ways to check in for the weekend. (I’ll show you more of Munich after the Oktoberfest posts).

We checked in to our new temporary home and are ready for day one of our 48 hour whirlwind of Oktoberfest. This is Marshall’s first time, so I thought we’d take it easy and experience the outdoor portion first. This of course means we are saving the “tent” shinanagins for the bright and early start on Saturday!

Step one: Suit up! If I don’t say so myself, I think we did a fantastic job of sporting the traditional outfits. I’m in a dirndl that I got the first year I attended and have proudly warn ever since and Marshall is well fitted in his shiny new lederhosen!

I think our “welcome packages” were adorable! The heart cookie necklaces are traditional this time of year, similar to the American “Valentine”, you adorn your sweetie with a phrase of your choice. I have no idea what our says… I just know they’re not for eating (yes, I tried a nite…its a cookie!) Aside from the necklace we got the Oktoberfest beer, a sample size of local liquor and a mug shot glass.

Step two: Finish the outfit with an awesome hat that says “Tourist… Who me?”

Step three: Take in the sights! Outside of the beer drinking tents (that are actually huge buildings that fit 6-10 thousand people each) there are rides for all ages, food stands, souvenir shops, and thousands of energized people. Many dressed in the appropriate clothes, others in casual wear and my personal favorite are the elderly couples hand in hand in what appears to be authentic outfits they’ve probably had for generations!

I wish I could of recorded the verbal exchange when I was asking this young German couple if they would be a part of my handstand picture, hilarious!

These guys were at a beer garden we visited that was just outside of the festival. We entered a conversation of “tough countries” and naturally it ends up in an arm wrestling match. I dedicate these photos to “The Young Family” in Oklahoma.

Step four: Partake in your choice of typical Bavarian festival food! Note to future Oktoberfest attendees: Do not… I repeat do not try and pump your own mustard unless you would like a small bruise from a local German vendor operator.

The walk back brings some great night shots of the energy and lights that keep the festival going.

Tomorrow brings a 5:30am alarm to get ready for our attempt at getting in to the most famous of the tents, the Schottenhamel.

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: arm wrestle, beer, dirndl, food, hat, lederhosen, Oktoberfest | 2 Comments

What do you get when you mix 4 Germans, 2 Dutch and me?

Posted on September 26, 2012 by erikamae82

A party in Amsterdam!

Quick recap: I met Carina and Florian, years ago at Oktoberfest who introduced me to Julia and Sebastian this year. Denise and I met while studying in Spain last year and just met Ioni in Argentina this March. Since I know all 6 of these incredible people I felt more than than driven to connect us all at once. Success!

We met up early in the day to wander the streets before heading out on the town. I got to take them to one of my favorite open markets!

I honestly couldn’t figure out if this was a real man. He didn’t budge or blink for the awkward moments I just stood there… I’m still not sure.

We were extremely tempted to purchase snow suits and wear them out as a huge group, next time!

Most vendors have some sort of design on the outside of their closed shed. Gotta love the one and only Bob Marley!

After snooping through bags, books, clothes, tools, posters, jewelry, plants, and still trying to figure out if that guy was alive or not… we head to Dam Square to meet up with the rest of the bunch.

While waiting, I offered to take a picture of a group of lovely ladies that ended up being so sweet! Besides the great conversation with these intelligent girls, I now have a place to stay in Indonesia!

Who took the group photo of us? Italy on my right and Spain on my left!

All right, time to dance! Amsterdam is full of bars, clubs and offers a variety of entertainment every night of the week. We didn’t have any specific plans which led us on a walk to see what we could find.

A crazy disco club? A loud sports bar? A classy cocktail lounge? Nope. An old school bar in which we were the youth by a solid 35 years… priceless! All eyes peered over in curiosity as we bounced through the entry way. I wonder what they were all thinking?

After only minutes I saw this woman ever so slightly shaking her hips to the tunes and that was my cue… That girl wants to dance!

…and this was the beginning to our self-made dance party with new friends. I hope the locals will look back and smile remembering the enthusiasm we brought and the energy we left with.

The first photo is the owner playing bottles of liquor with two sticks making them chime to some crazy Dutch song. Then naturally Carina and I end up behind the bar pouring drinks. We both agree that these taps poor differently than back home.

As the evening wrapped up, we handed my camera to one of our new pals for a group photo.
Judging from the pictures, he wasn’t sober. Here’s what we ended up with! (In the exact order they were taken).

The closing to the night was finding a solution to the growling tummy’s of my dear buddy’s.

What’s this? For those of you in the dark like I was, this is a form of fast food vending machine style! Instead of a bag of nuts or skittles, you have your choice of hamburgers, chicken strips, friend cheese, hotdogs and so on. This smile says it all!

Carina, Florian, Julia, Sebastian, Denise and Ioni… I hope you stay connected as this evening should be the first of many! I’ve got to be the luckiest “tourist” around these parts, thanks for joining me! Doei and Tschuss!

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: bob marley, dam square, Dance, Dutch, German, locals, market, Music, party, vending machine | 1 Comment

How to get lost in Amsterdam with incredible people!

Posted on September 25, 2012 by erikamae82

They call it the city of bikes. No need to wonder why!

My first time hitching a ride on a bike! I felt safer with this guy than with a seat belt in a Peruvian cab. Recognize this face? It’s Simon! Him and Ashgan were the fun duo that hiked Machu Picchu with me.

If a bike isn’t your preference of transportation, you can take your pick of one of these. How can you look at some of these photos and not smile!

Are these mini smart cars? They must be “brilliant”.

Not fond of wheels? The first two are my favorite photos of people choosing to walk. This little girl is adorable and the elderly man with the boy wore the clogs throughout the entire central station, “click, clack, click, clack…”

Other random sights to be seen while walking or riding about the city.

Can you see the name of the shop?

Dam Square is pretty much the most central as you can get in regards to an open area perfect for people watching! If you’re ever bored in Amsterdam (I say that sarcastically), find a seat in the square and just watch the free entertainment. Here was the show I got!

It’s Marshall! This is the amazing chef I met in Las Vegas, that I reunited with in Atlanta that now has joined me for a wonderful portion of Europe! Here we are acting like the “grown ups” that we are.

The handstand shot!

Last year-

This year-

The last night in Amsterdam I was honored to introduce Marshall to Simon and Ashgan (the duo that I spent time with in South America). The first picture is us at the top of Machu Picchu followed by a shot of us sand boarding in Peru! Then the most recent photo.

Marshall also got to meet my dear friend Denise… I love great people meeting amazing people!

The Netherlands has always had a special place in my heart. It now has several people that have added to the indescribable warmth I feel when thoughts of Holland cross my mind. I miss you already friends… Soon enough we gather again! Doei!

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: Amsterdam, bikes, Bus, clog, dam square, holland, smart car, tram | 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

I heart NYC

Posted on August 20, 2012 by erikamae82

I’m sure I don’t have to do much explaining for this ever so popular destination in North America. The songs, the shows, the movies and “Hollywood” does a fine job of providing every angle that New York City has to offer. For me, this weekend was primarily to reunite with several friends. First and for most, meet Jessica. An extremely kind girl with brains and beauty. We met in Italy last year and toured through France and ended in Spain together. During that journey we mentioned how cool it would be to connect again. All the way from Canada (near Niagra Falls) she flys in and finds me at the JFK airport.

Here we are in Florence…

…and now in New York City!

We stayed at the New York Budget Inn which is a hostel styled setting with some of the most friendly staff members I have met on the road this far. If you’re ever passing through and desire a great price, I highly suggest this be your choice for accommodations. Location, employees, comfort and cleanliness… all exceeded my expectations, thanks gentlemen!

www.newyorkbudgetinn.com .

Here’s what my 72 hours looked like (excluding that crazy night in which I didn’t bring my camera… Good thing).

Walking the streets.

I didn’t know they allowed small ponies to walk the streets on a leash.

Remember the coconut jelly that I LOVED in Barbados? I found this woman selling whole baby coconuts. I get to drink the water, then eat the jelly! FYI: the flavor was nothing like on the island. I should of known, bummer.

They were promoting the local tap water. “It’s not only OK to drink, it’s great to drink.”

This has always amazed me for some reason.

Hmmm, not tempted to eat here…

Outdoor and indoor frozen yogurt, your pick!

Markets! One if my favorite things to explore in any city.

This vibrant artwork caught my eye in World Market.

As the sun starts to lower the energy of the city is far from quiet. The vibe begins to rotate and the streets become darker yet louder.

Turns out is was going to rain… a lot.

Smile if you forgot an umbrella!

This wet evening was far from drab as we got to eat at one of my new favorite spots. RAYMI is a traditional Peruvian restaurant that has brought authentic flavors right to your dish. How did I ever find out about this amazing treasure? On the flight home from Peru, I was seated right next to Erik Rameriz, one of the creators and talented chefs. I teased him on the plane that I would show up someday… surprise!

With a reservation and a smile we walkEd in and were treated like royalty. Poor Jessica didn’t know how excited I was going to get when seeing so many familiar items that I’ve been missing from Peru. These are including but not limited to: Pisco, Chancaca, Cusqueña, and several fresh seafood options garnished with toasted corn and sweet potatoes!

Due to the gorgeous ambiance, I didn’t snap any photos so please click on the link to tempt yourself with the best Peruvian restaurant Kniwn to me! Thank you Erik for the wonderful experience, stimulated taste buds and a glimpse of my journey to Peru.

www.richardsandoval.com/raymi/ .

The following evening, we hit up yet another favorite of mine, Marc Forgione. Marc was winner of the next Iron Chef on the food network and joined up with an incredible staff to open this successful restaurant. One of the talented team members and GM happens to be a childhood friend of mine from Folsom. Matthew Conway (to be said in a fancy voice, even though we just called him Matt) allowed us to snag one of his beverage creations while nibbling on some unique bites.

www.marcforgione.com .

On the way to dinner (in a cab to avoid the storm).

After dinner we got a bonus reunion with my even longer time pal, Jimmy. The three of us grew up together and parted ways due to… Well, life. This night we got to hang out like back in the old school days. Here’s Jimmy with us on the way to the next stop. This is when the camera was put away.

Fast forward to our last stop, non other then some New York Pizza to finish up the night! Matt is nearest on the right, then Jessica and Jimmy.

…and of course we meet a group of friendly fellas! The one with the broken arm is getting married soon (enter smooshy love sounds here). What a fun group of boys, sure wish we could of connected sooner. Well cheers to you and your new chapter of marriage!

Much thanks to Matt and Jimmy for not only making time for us, but enhancing our trip!

So it’s now the night before we’re leaving and I get a dental emergency. To spare you the details, we’ll just say I couldn’t have left without it being fixed. This is Dr. Peter Mann, my super hero in a white coat. He got me in within 20 minutes of a phone call and out within 30 minutes of sitting down. I’m so grateful for his calming work and the wonderful girl who greeted me with an “It’s going to be all right” smile.

The morning we were departing, Jessica back to Niagra and me off to Madrid, we waited in the Grand Central Station for our bus. Handstand time! If you can’t find me, I’m the one with my feet in the air.

Next time I touch ground… Spain!

Categories: Accommodations, Edibles!, Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: Budget inn, Dance, Grand central station, Jfk, Marc Forgione, New york, Raymi | 4 Comments

Kadooment!

Posted on August 13, 2012 by erikamae82

This festival of Barbados was originally celebrated in the 1800s by slaves at the end of the sugar-cane harvest. A procession of carts and animals decorated with flowers would bring the last load of cane to the plantation owner, who would then provide a feast for the laborers. Now, Crop Over is the most anticipated event on the island. It begins in June and finishes strong on the first Monday of August with Grand Kadooment. This massive parade includes participants dancing their way through the local streets to Soca and Calypso music while dressed in vibrant, eye-catching costumes!

So you can imagine when Ryan asked if i wanted to join in… My response? Of course! All he needed was my measurements, (before I knew the details) I thought, “Cool, I might get a neat shirt or maybe matching shorts”. (This is where you can enter either his mischievous laugh or my nieve giggle).

Here is what I measured into:

This is Jane. I’ll call her a new friend, but she felt more like a sister. Comforting and welcoming with a noticeable warmth… what a joy to be around!
Here she is with and her husband Aldo there son Ethan. When I asked how soon the little guy got to “jump” in the carnival, dad said “next year” while mom just laughed. On average the locals usually start between 14-17 years of age depending on the household.

Its 7:45 in the morning and the troop is ready to hit the 6 mile parade!

If I need to justify why the drink trucks are already up and serving adult beverages at 8am…Let me remind you that I’m in Barbados.

First and only stop (the structured part of the day) is the arena where each “band” gets to cross the main stage and basically strut their stuff while representing their colors.

After this talent show, the crowd blends and we keep on whining and chipping away the celebration.
NOTE: Please see the J’ouvert post to recall the dance definitions of chipping and whining.

Here is a glimpse of some other varieties of costumes.

Although there are thousands of people, you are constantly running into friends. Some slow down to wait for the drink truck while others bounce ahead to their favorite song.

It’s miss Sarah Jane!

This is two of the dozen music trucks. Some are live bands, others have awesome Dj’s that keep the groups moving!

… And it keeps on going…

At some point in the journey, you’ve got to hop on a wall!

I loved involving the people that came to observe. Thank you for the idea and encouragement Ryan!

In Ryan’s words “Go big or go home”.

This little girl asked for one if his beads… Adorable!

Ooh, another friend! This is Dwayne, you may recognize him from the Segway Polo team that I described before. I met this fun loving angel in California last year. Whenever I mention his name, my mom usually interrupts me with “Awh, I just love Dwayne… He’s one of my favorites”.

Melodie and Kris… Quality energy. They jump every year, except that tiny bump you can’t see is their little peanut that will be here by next kadooment! Congrats to wonderful people adding to this magical planet!

The Police station is known as a fine place to slow your trek and take a moment to let your presence be known. I was told that in years past, full costumed people have ran in, hopped on the tables and danced for the employees. Take notice, the doors are now closed. Eh, handstand shot!

Well, no police station fun… so let’s just play friendly with the authorities then!

When the heat is at it’s peak, it’s so nice to run into the water fountains. They have hoses spraying for all involved that need a cooling off.

The temperature has been climbing all day with a few sprinkles here and there. That is the main reason you’ll notice less and less head pieces as the day goes on. I gave mine to a little girl on the side lines. Either that or you try to save it and end up with what looks like a drowned rooster on your head.

Feathers tickling my face before the rain…

…and her poor head piece after the soaking.

More creative beauty!

Random snap shots

During the final stretch (after 6 miles) we follow the coast with several options for food, different drinks and… Hold up, “Did you say food?”

I don’t think Ryan has seen me so ready to devour anything that was out in front of me. The last pic is me patiently, if you call it that, waiting for some edible nutrients.

“Thank you” doesn’t quite capture the gratitude I have for the friends of Barbados that made this trip what it was. Cheers to great times, priceless memories and plans for next year! All my love.

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Fitness, Uncategorized | Tags: Calypso, Carnival, Chipping, Costume, Crop over, Dancing, Feathers, Festival, Kadooment, Parade, Soca, Sugar cane, Whining | 3 Comments

Mud and Paint Party!

Posted on August 7, 2012 by erikamae82

During the time of slavery, Carnival was introduced to the Caribbean by French settlers in 1783. Banned from the masquerade balls, the slaves would stage mini-carnivals in their own backyards creating new rituals. In so many words, they would pretty much imitate or mock the “party” behavior of their masters.

Let’s talk J’ouvert (pronounced joo-veh) meaning “day break”.

The origins of the street party referred to as J’ouvert coincide with the emancipation from slavery in 1838. People smeared themselves with mud or paint to avoid being recognized and partied down the street late at night while the wealthy were sleeping.

The Bajan version includes calypso music loud enough to send the language of the evening into smiling, waving, toasting, thumbs up or chipping. Chipping is a dance step that is flat footed, knee bent and moving forward, almost as if to “chip” away the street. If the music is right, you can sneak in some whining. This is when people attach themselves to one another by their ‘middle section’ and pulse, sway and thrust to the rhythm in every conceivable manner. Front on front, front to bum – down, up, side to side… You name it. This can be in multiples of two all the way up to a sea of 20!

Ready, set… Here we go!

10:00p – Time to get ready. My oufit before…

…and after!

11:45p – Getting ready to board the bus to the top of the route. Although this “walk” (which means chipping and dancing, referred to as “jumping”) is only about 2 miles, it takes hours to complete due to the pace set by the music and drink trucks.

So clean as I innocently wait for the future festivities.

12:30am – Once everyone has made it to the starting point, they start the music and open the drink trucks (a mobile bar with servers feeding the crowd unlimited adult beverages).

1:15 – The paint has arrived! This is one of the dozens of barrels.

2am – Let the jump begin! Red, yellow, blue, green, orange… or mud? Unless you’re the one with the bucket, you have no idea what is headed your way. We started off with the sunshine color.

3 something in the morning – it’s only just begun.

You can imagine what the inside of everyones cup must look like with the flinging of this nonsense. I’m not quite sure how, but I managed to keep it totally clean. The locals were questioning my strategy. I claim luck.

Orange? Yes please!

Jason has no idea what’s coming…

…Now he does! This look is priceless.

Sometime between 4-4:30 – Closed off streets with hundreds of people having a blast, still chipping away.

5ish – The sun is starting to come up as we reach the last stretch.

At the end of the route, they have a huge fire hose that drenches the crowd for a final rinse before we depart. This shower includes perfect music for more… you guessed it, dancing! Yes, the drink truck parks and keeps on serving.

Before 6am – Crossed the finish line, here we are before the shower.

Ryan’s poor flip flops. I kinda like ’em that way.

Stretching out after miles of raving.

Almost 7 am – Danced in the rain, rinsed off in the parking lot shower party and now it’s come to an end. (Which simply means we get enough time to eat, pretend to rest and get ready for the next carnival party).

I don’t know what I’m more impressed by, the high energy maintained by the open minded participants or the fact that with all of the action, not one fight. Not even one verbal threat. Everyone just laughing and truly enjoying the spirit of Carnival. In my opinion, it’s the way it should be!

Categories: Fashion from a backpack, Uncategorized | Tags: Barbados, Carnival, Chipping, Dancing, J'ouvert, Mud, Paint, Traditional | 3 Comments