Her Happy Trails

Wait, it’s not Halloween yet… Is it?

Posted on October 17, 2013 by erikamae82

After a day of exploring the Shrine we decided to keep the energy going and visit the popular Takeshita Street that leads to the crossing of Harajuku Street. For all of my California friends, think of it as the “Haight and Ashbury” of Tokyo if you will. This energetic strip has it all! Unique gift shops, local eats, costume boutiques, candy buffets and lets not leave out the 90’s themed collectors store!

Ill start off fresh with a picture that I snagged for all of my “car loving” buddies. This beauty caught my eye simply because you don’t see things like this very often while “backpacking” around.

It’s not Halloween, however year round you’ll find girls dressed in eccentric costumes just out doing their thing and always willing for a photo.

There’s definitely no question if we’re here as we approach the main entrance to Takeshita Street. Time to kick it up a notch!

Let us take a photo tour, walk with me!

You know, my backpack does have quite a bit of wear and tear. Maybe it’s time for a new one?

Sweet tooth anyone? Fruit on a stick or crepes and ice-cream!

Fruit not good enough to subside your sugar craving? How about a candy shop! A few things to be looked for in this set of pictures:
#1 The adorable host outside that is passing out free candy.
#2 The size of Jessica’s marshmallow and the gummy worm (I mean snake!) that Brandon found.
#3 The girl dressed in all black needs to be added to the list of crazy attire you’ll see around here.

I skipped out on the candy store so I could snag a Japanese single serving dish. This little bowl had root veggies, soybeans, green squiggly things and dark brown circular objects. All glazed with what tasted like a ginger teriyaki sauce and it even came with chop sticks! Is it just me, or am I starting to take on a Japanese appearance?

With the sun down and a walk behind us we slowly made our way back towards the station.

Street food! Octopus and squid balls that consist of fish, egg, spices and flour pressed into a circle before being deep fried and served.

Although I love a tasty Kabob once in awhile, I had plenty of those in Europe…

Wait! I can read a part of that menu and I see, “healthy… green…” and “…exotic”!

Salad coming up!

Too bad we already ate, this place looked inviting with several tempting combinations. I would have went with the fig, kiwi and yogurt mixture.

As we exit the main strip, the modern city buildings hypnotize you with their crazy structures and mind teasing appearances. The first one is actually formed with a series of angled mirrors!

A deep breath (of city air) is necessary to take it all in. It’s reminds me of Time Square in New York City, except nobody is yelling and there’s not a slice of pizza around every corner.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: costumes, fruit, Harajuku street, Japan, salad, shopping, street food, Takeshita street | 2 Comments

The Shinto Shrine of Meiji Jungu

Posted on October 16, 2013 by erikamae82

Lets pause for a minute and (re)introduce you to my amazing cousin Brandon. We grew up seeing each other once every few years when our paths would cross at family gatherings. Our beautiful grandmothers are close sisters and have kept the connection tight. Describing him is simple, he’s patient and kind, yet assertive and witty…. trusting him is easy due to to his sincerity that matches his genuine personality. I know that sounds like a lot of “nice” words thrown into a sentence, but he truly is a quality individual. Here we are almost 20 years ago followed by a picture from last October.

After enjoying a wonderful visit last year, I’ve returned to Japan to spend time with him and connect with his stunning girlfriend Jessica. She’s the gorgeous girl photoed below that naturally enhances everything around her with a vibrant smile and bright eyes. I would describe her as strong and sweet with just enough spice to keep him on his toes. Between the movie quotes, exaggerated imaginations and our compatible sense of humor, this is definitely a couple that I enjoy being around!

Today we’re off to visit a sacred park in the city of Harajuku. Traveling throughout Japan is relatively basic due to the convenient train system. From our door step to the nearest station is a simple 5 minute walk and from there, we took a few transfers as we made our way towards Tokyo. Along with us is one of their friends Kennedy, he’s also in the Navy and has been stationed here for 2 years.

Pit stop for two sweet treats! I feel like we should all live up to the “adult” status and have dessert first once in awhile. Mini cookies made with sweet Japanese potatoes and chocolate chips.

Ice cream that comes in a handy pouch? Really think about this, no spoon or messy cone, just a perfect serving in a resealable container on the go. Brilliant!

We’ve made it just in time for a short walk through the city (check out the size of the super crosswalk!) and an hour of exploring at the park. Note to future travelers, the inner park is generally open from 9am-4:30pm.

Before entering the shrine it’s courteous to cleanse in respect for Meiji Jingu. The proper sequence is to rinse your left hand, followed by your right. Then pour water back into your left hand to rinse your mouth. Continue by rinsing your left hand again and finish by rinsing the dipper.

Just before bowing through the entrance, I took a brief moment to capture a handstand shot and create a neat photo of this door that caught my eye.

As you approach the center, you’ll find families, tourists, people dressed in authentic costumes and a variety of exhibits.

On this day, we even got to witness a wedding!

Brandon surprised me with a “safe travels” blessing trinket from the shrine. Thanks cousin!

Leaving the location brought us through a forest that was created in honor of the Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken for their souls to dwell in. Each tree was placed and planted by hand!

An upside-down handstand (in respect of the Shrine and to prevent the Japanese guard from blowing his whistle at me…again).

After the visit, we took the long route back to the station through the popular Harajuku street. This ended up being so entertaining, that I’m going to save it for the next post! Here’s a sneak peek…

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: Forest, Japan, Magokoro, Meiji Jungu, shrine, Tokyo, Trains, wedding | 2 Comments

The “I think it’s still moving” kind of sushi

Posted on October 14, 2013 by erikamae82

Lets explore three separate styles of cuisine that are notably popular here in Japan.

Yakiniku (sounds like yah-key-nee-koo) is a term which refers to “grilled meat” and was originally named for the Japanese interpretation of the Korean bbq. While it’s not as trendy as Sushi or Ramen, you can find several different restaurants specializing in this entertaining meal. Last year in Japan we happen to find one of the best in town… Flash back time!

This year we gathered some friends to try out a new stop up the road that seemed to be popular with the locals. A small problem, if you want to call it that, due to the lack of tourist in this area, the menu is only in Japanese. You’d think the pictures would be helpful… right?

To my left, Brandon and Jessica ordered what they thought was chicken and beef. What came out? Blubber and liver.

To my right, Kennedy and Lechich (navy friends aka- shipmates) ordered a thick cubed bacon. What came out? Layers of fat dividing red meat.

For my order, I played it unusually safe with fresh green Cabbage.

The total for four adults not including a few alcoholic beverages averaged about $18 person. My favorite part was the appropriate gum that came with the bill!

Next up we have a noodle based soup that was originally imported from China in the Meiji Period. In more recent decades, it has become a very favored dish in Japan. There’s a variety of options from soba, ramen to udon with flavors including but not limited to shio shoyu, miso, butter, reimen or hiyashi chuka. These meals range from $4-8 dollars depending on the size and quality. I haven’t had any this trip, but here’s a glance from a previous visit.

Time for my favorite… Sushi! Though we use the word “sushi” to refer to all of the scrumptious stuff that’s delivered on a wooden board, the word “sushi” actually refers to the sweet, vinegar rice. If you want more information describing in full detail the variety of combinations that grace the table for this meal, please google it.

For now, just know that it usually involves raw or seared fish, rice, sea vegetables, sauces and soy to create a beautiful mixture of flavors that pleasantly greet your taste buds. In other words, its simply delicious.

For our sushi experience, we got a group together at a local spot. This place has pictures on a huge menu, floating appetizers circling the bar and a very friendly staff.

After starting off with a warm hand towel, everyone continued by creating their own hot green tea. You put in the amount of powder desired, then use the fresh water spout to add blistering hot water.

We ordered a variety of fish to share around the table. From glazed salmon to garlic tuna and of course a few other pieces that we couldn’t figure out.

Next up, a gift from the waitress with a small cup of “surprise soup”. Awkward faces prepare for the first bite and although we still don’t know exactly what it contained, the taste wasn’t bad.

Since we’re on the note of mystery dishes, I saw that there was okra in some of the options… I love okra! We asked for “the best one” and out came a dish Gunkanmaki style with okra and what smelled like dirty socks dipped in expired peanut butter. Not my favorite.

For the grand finale, they treated us with their fresh fish specialty. It goes from swimming (literally) to your plate in less than 5 minutes! Once ordered, we watched them pull it straight from the tank to start the process!

They then “prepared it” by putting the raw meat on a small bed of rice (extremely tasty) and then serving the head and bones deep fried. The texture resembled an extra crunchy potato chip with a subtle fish flavoring. It was amazing!

Although ice cream, mochi and other desserts were offered, we went with a fresh fruit jello dish.

Total for this spread stayed under $13 a person! On the way out, there’s what appeared to be a colorful candy machine. Nope, it dispenses toys and puzzle games!

I chose to walk home for slight relief of my full tummy, which really only meant room for a new treat that I happen to see at a local mini mart! A green tea popsicle that hugged a sweet bean paste. I will say that although this is a “healthier option”, it’s not the best choice if you’re craving a good ol’ ice cream cone.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: beef fat, blubber, fresh fish, Japanese food, liver, local restaurant, Ramen noodles, yakiniku BBQ | Leave a comment

You know you’re in Japan when…

Posted on October 9, 2013 by erikamae82

You know you’re in Japan (and not a local) when…

…you run out with money in hand to what you think is the ice-cream man. Then after looking around confused, you realize it’s the garbage collectors truck playing that sweet music. Not funny guys… not funny.

…you go for a jog outside, in public and alone. It’s extremely rare around here.

…you hesitate washing your hands because the sink oddly resembles a yurnle.

…after looking both ways, you casually walk to the other side of the road… even when the crosswalk sign signals “wait”. You’ll often see several local pedestrians patiently standing at a crosswalk waiting with absolutely no chance of a car coming in either direction.

…you board a train without some sort of personal electronic entertainment system.

…your friends think they order chicken and beef and instead, get served blubber and liver.

…you go to stick a thermometer in your mouth at the doctors office and they panic before acting out the clarification. Turns out it goes under your armpit, oops.

…you return for the third time trying to by spearmint gum. What was attempt number one and two? Melon and lemon lime.

…you’re the only one not in the single file line.

…you think everyone is greeting you until you learn that “Hi” really means “yes”.

…the toilet has more buttons than your smart phone.

…your taxi driver is wearing a bow tie.

…there’s no one working behind the counter and there’s just various money left to make change for whatever you are taking out of the store.

…you stop to take a photo of the children’s “game section” of the grocery store.

Categories: Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: doctors, fun facts, garbage truck, Japan | 3 Comments

The little boy in blue

Posted on October 8, 2013 by erikamae82

I sit on a bench for a brief moment to look around to take it all in. My heart is racing, most likely due to the fact that I ran here, but I’d like to give a little credit to the idea that maybe at this point in time… I’m connected. I’m in Japan at a park in total peace. I am in the present.

I look to my right and just across the way is a group of 7 elderly Japanese people. 5 are looking directly at me with no expression and the other 2 seem concentrated in what appears to be a deep conversation. Next to them is a young boy in a bright blue helmet, that matches his royal blue bike. Attached are training wheels proudly boasting blue shiny wheels. Where are his parents? Probably watching him do the same tiny circular loop that Ive been observing.

My focus is broke by the sound of a chain as the gears shift on the bicycle passing. I nod with a smile at the middle aged man as he floats by. The ever so slight lift of his mouth and wrinkle next to his eye is a polite acknowledgment. I feel my smile broaden.

I watch as he rides past the baseball diamond where there’s a teenage girl practicing a fierce underarm pitch. She’s strong. Behind her is a young boy too far for me to make out an age, but I would guess no older than 12. He seems completely content with each toss of his baseball, straight up and back down to his glove, over and over again. I remember doing that as a child.

I peer back to find that now, all 7 of the older crowd is looking at me. I try to feel out their mood, I’ve got nothing.

Little boy blue is still circling round and around.

It rained this morning so the ground is wet but the sun is out now and the breeze is nice. I begin to be conscious of my body. The bench is cold and I wonder if I’ll have a wet bum when I stand up. Both feet are flat on the ground, my back is straight yet shoulders are relaxed. Although I’m gazing around, my head stays generally still. I must look awkward. No wonder the older concerned group is still staring at me.

Passing the boy in blue comes a father and daughter on foot. The oversized green bows in her hair perfectly match the dainty flowers on her white sundress. The top of her head barely reaches his waist where their hands meet. He doesn’t show much emotion as she jumps from block to block in the pathway, jerking his arm in every direction. Clearly tired of the restriction and probably a relief to dad, she lets go of his hand and continues her game of leaping squares. The bows raise and flop down with every jump.

Something catches her eye.

I follow the excitement in her vision to find a plump woman in heeled wedges holding the leash of a tiny, well groomed dog that looks as if he is attempting to prance his way to a first prize finish. I smile with entertained eyes as the woman stops, puts both feet together and stands with a strong posture… almost to match the pride exuding from her little paw baby. We make eye contact, she smiles and I nod to return the greeting.

I almost miss the adorable school aged girls passing by. I’m distracted by blue boy who is still doing laps on what you’d think is the smallest circular track around. He’s so happy.

The giggling bunch of girls skip by with knee high socks, plaid skirts, white collared shirts and cartoon backpacks. Today is Sunday, I wonder where they’re going.

My attention returns to the wind on my face and the chilly bench which I have now confirmed is most definitely going to leave me with a reminder that it rained today.

I feel calm. My heart rate has slowed back to normal and I sense it’s time to continue my journey.

Unless there is a bizarre scene directly behind me, the lovely bunch of elderly folks are still focused in my direction. I should be going now. I stand with a grin and give a slight bow in respect to the 7 onlookers.

Leaving the park, I giggle to myself as I pass the little boy in blue.

Categories: Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: baseball, Bike, boy, elderly, Japanese park, meditate, observe, sunny day, thankful | 3 Comments

“Do you have a menu with pictures please?”

Posted on October 6, 2013 by erikamae82

We’ve explored the beautiful world of international markets, so lets now venture into the restaurant scene. As a backpacker, I’m conscious of when and where I splurge, especially when it comes to food, drink and entertainment. With that said, when friends meet up abroad or a group of other travelers are heading out for dinner, sometimes I’ll spoil myself and join them!

Unfortunately I’m not going to post about every country, but here are some memorable meals and unique bites from around the world.

I’m going to start off with a very colorful, protein packed salad in a cafe near Nice, France. Since the extent of my French is “Parlez-vous anglais?” (Do you speak english?) and “merci” (thank you), this was ordered by pointing at a tiny picture and a huge smile.

This accidental order in Paris came from my eagerness to try “carpaccio”, a plate of thinly sliced raw meat or fish. My innocent mistake was trusting the waiter and agreeing to a similar dish called “Tartare”. This however, is a meat dish made from finely minced raw beef or horse served with onions, caper, seasonings and sometimes a raw egg. Not the same my friends, not…the…same!

In Spain, I usually find myself nibbling around town due to the ever so popular tapas or pinxtos. Clarification, “tapas” isn’t necessarily a particular type of food, rather a small portion of anything ranging with paella, croquettes, fish and peppers on toast, and so on. Pintxos’ are bites you pick up off the bar and bring back to your table to enjoy. Then, depending on how many sticks you have on your plate tells them how much to charge for at the end. Here are some of my favorite scrumptious snacks in Spain.

The course pictured below describes my opinion of the country it came from, Switzerland – clean, tasteful and proper.

Moving on to the hearty land of Germany, specifically the state of Bavaria. Even though I struggle to find lean and light meals there, I can still enjoy a plate of solid comfort food. My favorite is the warm red (or blue or purple depending on which German you ask) cabbage side dish. My not so favorites seen below are the flour and potato dumplings and pretty much anything that may have the word “wurst” in it.

Before I move on from Germany, I’d like to dedicate a short description and a few photos to the wonderful world of Oktoberfest! Continue reading if you’re up for a story or skip to the pictures to see a few options you may get during the traditional festivities.

The day I learned that the Bavarian language differs from the rest of Germany, goes as follows. My dear friend Carina, you all should know her by now, was attempting to help me order soup. She said she’d do her best since she doesn’t fully understand Bavarian. I asked for anything with vegetables “something that grows or is green” was my request and considering we had been at the festival since sunrise with nothing but a liter of beer, I was excited to consume anything! That was until… until we realized I had ordered liver dumpling soup.

Before…

During…

After…

Other appetizing dishes to coat the stomach while celebrating the largest people’s fair in the world!

Since I’m usually visiting my friends in Holland, I rarely explore and sit down at a legit Dutch restaurant. I have however, enjoyed the best falafel wrap while in The Netherlands!

Hungry in Hungary? (Curtesy laugh goes here) Expect meat, potatoes, salad and bread. Not to shabby!

Sword fish, greens, garlic butter and bread was the choice in Crete, Greece. Naturally complimented by the traditional Greek dessert of Baklava, Ouzo and fruit!

Heading southeast to Malaysia, I’m going to show you two different ways they can serve up the same meal. First we have the over portioned, grease covered greens aside fried fish.

After being served the plate above, I mentioned my disappointment to a new local friend who then invited me to a different location to show me how it’s “supposed” to be done.

My favorite meal in Malyasia wasn’t due to the taste, but the story that comes with it. If your remember the post of volunteering in Malaysia, then you’ll understand that this surprise dish was given and received with much gratitude. Thank you Marcel!

Jumping over major seas, I’m now bringing you to Central and South America. With several countries, many amazing dishes and unique treats, I’m going to narrow it down to just a few.

First up, Pupusas! These light corn or rice tortilla type patties are stuffed with your filling of choice, then topped with a spicy coleslaw! We were introduced to this savory snack while being treated by a few locals in El Salvador!

Costa Rica was easy. Just show me to the greens with a bit of fish and whatever drink comes blended, fresh and colorful. Pura vida!

Jumping down to Ecuador presents some of the tastiest soups and flavorful ceviche I’ve ever experienced! The rich spices, fresh fish and crunchy toppings make for an amazing treat for your taste buds.

Peru allowed me to feel joy when items like quinoa and sweet potato overruled the usual carbohydrates of pasta, corn and wheat. I love the ingredients of this country so much that I actually took a Peruvian cooking class!

I’m going to bring Argentina into the mix due to the impressive meal we were served last year in Buenos Aires. I’m generally not a huge meat eater, so for this steak to hit my tops picks says a lot for the quality at hand. Take a look at those veggies too!

In the waters northeast of South America sits one of my favorite islands called Barbados. Bajan cuisine includes a vibrant blend of foods with African, Indian and British influences. Not to forget one of my favorites, the amazing Roti from Trinidad!

Australia and New Zealand (I apologize for bulking you two together, but only for the sake of this post), brought many home cooked meals. Mostly fresh from the farms I was volunteering on or hand picked from the gardens that I helped harvest. No complaints here with the abundance of fresh vegetables and local organic meat!

Last but not least is the large island of noodles, fish, rice and other objects I don’t really know about (simply because my Japanese is as good as my French). Considering I’m wiring this post from Japan, there’s definitely more to come soon! For now, take a look at these mouth watering dishes!

Ill leave you with an advertisement that isn’t tempting, but certainly entertaining as it’s a bit different than the usual Big Mac add.

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: Argentina, Australia, Bavaria, Costa rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, fish, food, France, Germany, Greece, liver, meat, New Zealand, Peru, Pupusas, Spain, Tapas, The Netherlands, veggies | Leave a comment

On your MARKET, get set… Go!

Posted on October 1, 2013 by erikamae82

Lets talk about a worldwide shared interest, a magnet for gatherings and one of my favorite subjects, food! Sweet, salty, fresh, raw, baked, grilled, fried, roasted, frozen, blended, puréed and homemade… We love it!

I’ve been extremely fortunate to have experienced the cuisine of several different countries and oh how they differ!

Since I have thousands (no exaggeration) of photos in my travel history, I figured that I’d break it up into a few categories. This post is showing off the wonderful world of markets!

The outdoor options bring you locally operated venues in which residents gather to provide fruit, veggies, homemade goodies and more. Walk with me street side as we start in Europe! Below is a bundle of photos that I took during the past few years including but not limited to The Netherlands, Spain, Germany, Italy, France, Switzerland, Greece, Belgium, Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic and England.

On to the country of Malaysia within the cities of Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang!

Hungry yet? Next we have my Central American market experience that includes Costa Rica, Belize, El Salvador and Panama.

Here are the sights while exploring a small part of South America. Welcome to Peru, Ecuador and a Argentina!

I think the best part of these entertaining events is the “snack as you go” option, as you can always just grab a small portion for the road. I learned very quickly to go to the market for lunch, not after!

I realize this post has a bit more photos (of tempting, scrumptious, mouth watering delights) and not so many words (that just get in the way of the delicious visuals). With that said, if you’re interested in more descriptive information on each specific country, please feel welcome to search my blog for more details!

Categories: Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: central America, Europe, food, fruit, Malaysia, snacks, south America, Street market, vegetables | Leave a comment

Beach fun, good food and football…the American kind!

Posted on September 26, 2013 by erikamae82

I’ll go ahead and admit to you now, this trip to Greece was not to explore ancient history or keep myself busy with guideed tours. I traveled here to see a new culture while visiting my dear friend Florian and of course try the food!

I’m hungry at the moment, so I’m going to begin with the edibles! My favorite thing about Cretan food? The abundance of organic, real and raw veggies. The restaurants are locally owned and operated and most ingredients are gathered right in their backyard!
Not so favorite fact… the lack of spice! “Hot” to them, means there is black pepper on the table.

Typically, you’ll get complimentary bread and butter before every meal and after, they bring you fruit aside a bit of Raki. Also known as Tsikoudia, this strong distilled spirit contains approximately 37 percent alcohol and is produced from the must-residue of the wine-press. I was told that Cretans are often disappointed when they travel abroad and these two customs are not delivered.

Our fancy meal of the trip was sword fish, stuffed mushrooms and greens. Followed of course, by the complimentary dessert and drink. Sorry, we devoured the delicious mushrooms before I took this photo.

This italian restaurant claimed to have fresh pizza from a wood burning stove. Turns out they were advertising the truth! Here’s the afternoon delivery of fresh wood, followed by the pizza that the boys ordered.

For this lunch stop, Hayden went for crougette balls (fried zucchini) and a typical cheese dish.
I thought I’d branch out and order the “special salad” (that was the actual name of it on the menu) and the only special thing to me was the 1/2 cup of mayonnaise in the middle. Why is this necessary and what we’re they thinking?!

Hamburger and fries? Yes he did!

A morning market treat for me was pomegranate and Greek yogurt. I added lime juice to make it into a dressing for my carrot, cucumber and mushroom salad. Top it with crushed almonds and viola, a scrumptious breakfast!

Lets head to the beach! On this specific shore, you’ll find clear shallow water with fine sand to kiss your feet. I really don’t need to describe much else, as the photos say it all. Florian took time of his busy schedule to show us around the water. What a wonderful way to spend a day under the blue sky!

Same sunshine, same beach… Different day. Time for a handstand!

By night, you can be entertained by the usual bars, dance clubs and restaurants. Then there’s the not so well known options that we chose! First pick was heading to the sand with tiki torches, an adult punch bowl and Florian’s guitar.

This was a Sunday night in which Hayden and I got spoiled with a local bar that was willing to play American football for us. Turns out there was another couple that had requested it as well. Before long, we had new friends, snacks, drinks and the Raiders game… What a night!

Dear Jennifer and Joel, it was a beautiful surprise to meet you two and I truly enjoyed our conversation! Cheers to what started with hand shakes and ended in hugs. I send you nothing but the good stuff!

One of the last nights there, the city called for a power out during a rainstorm. This doesn’t slow them down at all! What was once loud bars filled with music and lamps is now candle lit rooms with the sound of waves crashing between conversations. Extremely peaceful and yet so thrilling with every unexpected strike of lightning and thunder.

To my dear Florian, Daniel, Jule, Johanna and Irene. Our time in Crete has been marked “special” due to your enthusiasm and welcoming energy. To “the program”, we shall be in touch soon about future plans.

This is when my current partner in crime departs back west to the states as I journey east to Japan. I’m not sure I could possibly come close to properly describing my gratitude for our adventures together. Hayden, you and I both know that when I say “adventures”, I use that term in the least. Cheers to the next path crossing my friend!

Categories: Art, Edibles!, Uncategorized | Tags: beach singing, Chania, Crete, food, football, Greece, guitar | 2 Comments

Crete, the hometown of Zeus

Posted on September 24, 2013 by erikamae82

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, and sits just north of Africa. The wonderful people here consider themselves “Cretan”, not Greek and do a fine job of representing their independent culture. One of my favorite fun facts, speaking in mythological terms, Crete is believed to be the place where Zeus grew up!

I’m here visiting a dear friend of mine that I met years ago while dressed in a dirndl (I was, he was in lederhosen) singing German songs on a table at Oktoberfest in Munich.

Year after year we’ve stayed connected and this time, our reunion sweeps me to his summer job at a hotel in Chania. Before I take you to Crete, lets sneak a quick look at the journey to get there starting with a hanging tram in Dusseldorf to a layover in Athens. I got excited when I saw the writing on the back of the seat. Almost there!

Landing in Athens brings you an open designed terminal with many options to keep you occupied. With several museums, gambling halls, and cafe’s you’ll find quite a selection of entertainment. There’s even a kids play room if you care for a sitter while doing a little souvenir shopping. Hayden was behaving that day, so I let him hang with me.

The dreaded airport lunch? Not today! A salad buffet full of raw veggies, herbs, toppings and fresh dips like tzatziki and hummus. This definitely beats the usual option of an iceberg lettuce bowl with a few slivers of carrot and a bag of dressing for the same price!

A friendly and helpful side note to all of my frozen yogurt fans out there, at the Athens airport there are two different options for this cold delight. No need to worry, I did the exhausting hassle for you and tried both to confirm there is most certainly a better choice! Your welcome. The winner is…

Ok, finally landing makes my stomach fill with excitement as seeing sweet Florian is soon to be! If you know this guy, you can confirm that his kind smile matches his sincerity and his German quirky sense of humor leaves your cheeks aching from laughing!

We meet up for our first breakfast after a good nights sleep, meaning a few hours as the sun was coming up (thank you to the unofficial welcoming crew and the deck of cards). Check out this view!

Right away I felt my shoulders drop a notch and my busy mind lower gears. Between the Cretans love for food and drink, the warm sun on my skin and the ocean as a back drop, it only seems silly to allow any stress to hinder positive thoughts. Let me take you for a quick walk from our doorstep to the main road that hugs the shore.

Next, lets explore the work place of Florian. This type of hotel is new to me as its specifically designed for German travelers on vacation here. Not only does the staff speak German, but their news letters, guided tours and special events are all centered to help the guests feel connected and comfortable. Welcome to Hotel Dimitra!

Johanna and Jule, both here working from Germany, greeted us with eager smiles and fun conversation. Maybe its because we just came from their home country, but their sweet and spicy personalities made me feel comfortable instantly!

On this evening, the hotel was throwing a themed party they described as “bad taste”. Apparently you’re supposed to dress in an awkward fashion and sport a “unique” look. Of course we were invited and yes, I encouraged (made) Hayden dress up. I think we did just fine! The walk from our place to the hotel was the best part. All of the tourist on the street and people dining on the terraces staring at us as we giggle our way past them. Great memories!

A flash back of Jr.High popped into my mind when we were peaking around the corner to make sure we weren’t the only ones in costume. Coast is clear!

I am one lucky lady.

What better way to mingle with a crowd of Germans while visiting Greece than a theme party!

Such an energetic event to kick off our time here. Also, many thanks to Florian for not only the personal invite, but the exposure to bring me some haircut clients along the way!

I’ll end this post now with a neat photo I snagged from the bar decor. More Crete to come!

Categories: Accommodations, Uncategorized | Tags: Beach, Chania, Crete, Dimitra, Dimitra Hotel, German, Greece, party | 3 Comments

Cologne, how come we’ve never met?

Posted on September 21, 2013 by erikamae82

I’ve been coming to Germnay for years now and for some reason, I’ve never made a pit stop in the home to one of the most beautiful cathedrals that sits central next to a large river. Cologne is just south of Recklinghausen and is a hot spot for travelers in the area. With restaurants, pubs, bars, a brilliant shopping strip and many hotels, I’m surprised this place hasn’t made the top 10 “must visit” places in Germany! Maybe it has and I just never payed attention, either way, I finally made it and the short 24 hour visit only left me craving more!

A train ride from Recklinghausen to Cologne with one transfer cost about 30€ total and takes just a few hours. The nap is free of a charge.

Ill start by introducing the accommodations we chose. To be honest, it was a last minute decision to even come through here, so we didn’t do too much research on our options. With a view over looking the river, a private bathroom (which is like gold to a backpacker!) and a location that finds you center to entertainment and walking distance from the train station, we scored at Hotel Löwenbräu. Although the restaurant down stairs is convenient, it was a little awkward trekking through the candle lit ambiance as two backpackers coming in and out.

With limited daylight we headed straight to Cologne Cathedral to experience what used to be the tallest building from 1880 to 1884 and now is the largest Gothic church in Germany and tallest Roman Catholic cathedral in the world. This massive structure had the foundation laid back in 1248 and was continually worked on until the celebration of its completion in 1880. Photos rarely capture the grand size of beautiful buildings and this beast was even hard to get a handstand photo incorporating the entire structure! We tried from two different angles.

Before entering, here’s a few sights you may come across.

As you approach the entrance, the architecture already begins to reveal itself and once going through the doors, the magnitude and detail take over your senses.

There are several areas designed for prayer. Lighting a candle is a way of extending one’s prayer and showing solidarity with the person of whom you’ve prayed for. I’m unfamiliar with the details of the Catholic rituals, but it was interesting to learn about!

I would love to be present when these pipes chime with glorious sounds on a Sunday morning. Again, the large size just isn’t exposed in these shots.

After circling the main floor, we headed for the opportunity to climb the tower that raises above the cathedral. An innocent staircase starts the first of over 500 steps!

You can see how years of traffic have worn the steps that guide you up the tower. Makes me wonder who and what these walls have seen!

Once you think you’ve reached the tip top, the next set of stairs just smiles at you with the “thought you were done?” grin and invites you for another couple hundred steps.

The view was exactly as expected allowing you to see a majority of the city that hugs a portion of the river.

Do you remember the locks I spoke about in Germany and France? They’re secured by a couple in love and then the key is thrown into “Never going to unlock our love” land. This was my favorite chosen spot by some darling couple, makes for a great photo!

The rain started to get a little heavier as we made our way back down the steps. Some parts are open air, leaving you to experience the elements and others are covered.

We chose the long route home never minding the rain and watched the people as they indulged in the souvenirs and local shops.

A quick bite was necessary at this point. “Does that say Frozen Yogurt!?” I asked with excitment. Hayden then responds with “No…where? I only see hotdogs”. Funny how we focus on what we want.

A “last night in Germany” toast was called for when we reunited with Dany, a French Canadian that we met along the way.

The very next morning, Hayden and I head for the train station with happy feet and the sun shining as the next stop is the international airport!

Crete Greece is the last stop on our joint trip and the first country we’re seeing that I’ve never been too! Why Greece? You guessed it, another international friend that I met years ago who has now stretched out the invite to visit him in Crete during his summer stay. Farewell to Germany and many thanks to the huge hearts and welcoming hugs that still invite me back. Cheers till next time!

Categories: Accommodations, Art, Travel talk, Uncategorized | Tags: Cologne cathedral, food, Germany, history, love locks, towers, train, tram | Leave a comment

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