It's been the longest and shortest two years of my life. (Sometimes I feel like I've been living here FOREVER. And sometimes I still feel like I just arrived.August 2018 marked two years of living in Japan, and it's been quite the ride. I never expected that at the ripe old age of 33 that I'd be going into my third year of teaching English here and going on almost eight years of living abroad... but here I am.What I've DoneSo much. I've done so much since I've been here! I've ...
Life
Discover the Beauty of Toronto on These Top 4 Hikes
Despite being one of Canada's largest cities, Toronto is still replete with natural areas. You can see many of these wild wonderlands by going on a hike during your stay. To escape the hustle and bustle of downtown, branch out into Toronto's hidden green spaces on these hiking trails.Highland Creek TrailLocated inside the city limits, the Highland Creek Trail winds under the Kingston Road overpass to follow Highland Creek. It extends for 11.7 kilometers (or about 7.27 miles) and is rated ...
5 Animals Native to Singapore and Where You Can Find Them
Singapore is a wonderful destination for adventure, tropical relaxation, and wildlife viewing. These are just a few of the native animals you might see when exploring Singapore.MousedeerThe mousedeer is a species that many Singapore outsiders have never even heard of, which makes spotting one even more exciting. They are not actually a mouse or a deer. Instead, they are their own unique animal that mysteriously hides in the background of forested areas. Their advanced ability to hide ...
The Best Free Activities in Los Angeles
Visitors to Los Angeles, California have a dizzying array of activities to choose from in this sprawling urban city. But what if you're on a budget? Good news — the city has plenty on offer to fill your days up for free! You don't need to spend a lot of money to enjoy unique and interesting activities in LA.“The Price Is Right” TapingIt doesn't cost anything to attend a taping of the iconic game show "The Price Is Right." All you have to do is visit the ticket website and show up! ...
Top 5 Outdoor Activities in La Mesa
La Mesa, California, is known by its civic motto “the Jewel of the Hills.” With sunny and warm weather year-round, outdoor activities should be on the top of your agenda during a stay in La Mesa. Located in San Diego County (only 9 miles from downtown San Diego) and on the San Diego Trolley line, La Mesa is a convenient base for a Southern California vacation.Lake MurrayThis massive reservoir is located within the Mission Trails Regional Park. Lake Murray is a popular destination ...
5 Fascinating Things To Do In Germany
Germany has become one of the most incredible places in Europe to visit. It’s a country with a deep history stretching across many wildly different eras, as well as one full of beautiful places, modern cities, and interesting and progressive people. Plus, like some of its European neighbors, it’s relatively small and compact, which makes it easy enough to explore. Should you ever wish to do so, these are some of the fascinating things you can do around the country.1. See Neuschwanstein ...
The 7 Best Shopping Spots in Bangkok
Shopping in Bangkok is an unforgettable experience, as many indoor malls are between five and nine floors in total. Night markets don't close until midnight and are ideal for younger crowds. Here, shopping calls for a little stamina and a curious mind, so it's easy to cover a lot in little time. Planning ahead is best, so put on your walking shoes, grab a cold bottle of water, and head to the nearest SkyTrain station for the fastest directions.For Shoppers Who Crave Maximum ...
Monterey Bay: The Best West Coast Diving
Monterey Bay, California, is world-famous with scuba divers for its amazing dive sites. Though it is cold-water diving, divers are rewarded with good visibility to explore massive kelp forests and underwater canyons full of marine life. Both shore and boat diving are available, and you can see large creatures like harbor seals, tiny critters like nudibranches, and everything in between. Be sure to prepare for cold-water diving when planning your trip! Where to Stay Monterey Bay is accessible ...
Napa County for Teetotalers
Most people know Napa is famous for its top-tier wineries and vineyards, but it's worth a visit for teetotalers too! This beautiful region of California boasts a wilderness park, art museums, historic sites, and more. If you're traveling with children or just want to take a break from the vino, there are lots of fun places to check out during your stay in Napa County. Skyline Wilderness Park This 850-acre park has a trail network shared by hikers, bikers, and those on horseback (dogs are not ...
San Francisco’s 4 Most Multicultural Neighborhoods
San Francisco, California: This hilly city — known for its cable cars, Victorian homes, and the Golden Gate Bridge — is also home to some enlightening communities. San Francisco offers a bit of everywhere to everyone who's willing to experience it.The Life of Luxury in the Marina DistrictThe expansive views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and yachts on the water make the Marina District a neighborhood you must make time to visit. Visit Fort Mason, a former military base turned ...