Does following your bliss seem impossible? An unattainable pipe dream?
Actually, it could be easier than you think.
I should know: At the age of 35, I traded a successful academic career for the wild blue yonder, setting out to explore the world and myself. Six continents and nearly a decade later I’ve turned passion into profession and am blessed with a life of discovery, global connections and creative pursuits. You can do it too.
You know what you love, what makes your heart sing. So, break through inertia, overcome your fears, follow passion and start living it – today!
START SMALL:
Start somewhere. Anywhere. Follow inspiration. Join a club, take a class, sign up for that trip you’ve always wanted to take. Just get the ball rolling. The rest will follow.
DREAM BIG:
Don’t hold back. If you can dream it, you can be it. Create the blueprint for your new life in your mind’s eye. Indulge the dream with such passion and clarity that it feels real. Next thing you know, it will be.
SEEK ENCOURAGEMENT:
Find a mentor. Look around you for people already successfully turning their dreams into reality and ask for advice on how to do the same. It’s not hard. Build up your courage. People are nice. If they’re not, it’s not personal, simply move on to your next hero.
TAKE THE LEAP:
Don’t wait for the timing to be right. It never will be. Once you have an idea and a plan of action, do something immediately. Take one step towards your bliss right now!
“I know that I am following my bliss when my work is an act of love and devotion. Everyday is a joy to live.” Deepak Chopra ,Hay House Success Cards.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Caribbean Travel Tips
Who Doesn’t Like To Save Money? Check out these money saving tips from the editors at CARIBBEAN TRAVEL & LIFE magazine.
1. LOVE TO DINE: Sure you love to dine with the gourmands at the Caribbean’s top restaurants, but you can save a bundle by renting a hotel room with a kitchenette and eating in. Or, consider local takeout- joints.
2. PACKAGE DEALS: Be sure to ask your resort or cruise line about package deals that combine airfare, accommodations, sports and spa treatments in one deal. You’ll save good money on taxes and fees.
3. TRAVELING DURING THE LOW SEASON: You can save from 20 to 60 percent on accommodations by traveling during the low season. Before making reservations, check your resort’s website for specific discounted dates, or call the reservations’ desk and ask.
4. SET SAIL ON A CRUISE: Want to hit more than one Caribbean destination on your next vacation without shelling out the cash to get to each spot? Set sail on a cruise for five, seven or even nine nights, and make your way through the islands. All onboard meals and activities are included in the rate.
5. ROMANTIC DINNER FOR TWO: Forgo the ocean-view balcony suite and take in the serene setting of a garden - or pool-view room. You can use the money you saved toward a romantic dinner for two actually on the beach.
6. WEDDING PACKAGES: Once you realize that the average American wedding costs $20,000 you’ll instead want to opt for inviting your closest family members and friends for an intimate Caribbean beach wedding. Hotels often have wedding packages, plus you can turn the rest of the trip into your honeymoon.
7. RENTING A VILLA: If you’re traveling with a large family or with friends, consider renting a villa instead of taking multiple rooms at a resort. Though villa prices look expensive at first blush, when you divide by the number of rooms you’d have to book, and consider intangibles like having your own kitchen, pool, and private grounds, it can be a great deal.
8. ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS: All-inclusive resorts are excellent values for those who know they’ll take advantage of everything the resort has to offer. Big drinkers, big eaters and those who enjoy all the included beach toys and water sports can save a bunch over a similar quality of a la carte hotel. For those who prefer to see the surrounding area, sample the local food and don’t use the toys, non-inclusive resorts can be the better choice.
9. A FOREIGN VACATION: A foreign vacation is a great opportunity to expand your horizons and learn about other cultures. One of the most enjoyable ways is to skip the familiar chain restaurants and eat at local places and even roadside stands. Ask the cooks to make recommendations. Some must-trys are:
- Jerk barbecue and beef patties in Jamaica.
- Cracked conch in the Bahamas
- Empanadas in Puerto Rico
- Shark ‘n’ Bake in Trinidad
For food safety at roadside stands, only eat cooked foods that are still hot, and fruits and vegetables that you peel
10. LOCAL TRANSPORTATION: Local transport can unexpectedly eat up a lot of your budget. Rental car prices can be high in Jamaica, for example, because credit card issuers like American Express do not cover the collision insurance as it does for domestic rentals. In Bermuda, there are no rental cars, and taxis are very expensive. A great alternative, though, are the excellent local buses, which will take you all around the island for only a few dollars.
For more hot Caribbean ideas, sign up to receive a free CT&L monthly e-newsletter at www.caribbeantravelmag.com
About Caribbean Travel & Life:
Caribbean Travel & Life magazine is the most trusted authority on the world’s favorite sun-and-fun playground serving as resource, regular inspiration and constant connection for active travelers by presenting a comprehensive and current package of information and ideas on visiting the Caribbean. CT&L seeks out fun, positive experiences in all the destinations, and leading readers to romantic, indulgent and adventurous escapes via stunning photographs and stories that convey the warm- breeze, soft-sand, barefoot feel of the region.
SOURCE: Caribbean Travel & Life magazine.
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
TripAdvisor(R), the world’s largest travel community, today announced the ten funniest traveler posts of 2007, as chosen by TripAdvisor editors.
1. Not So Great Expectations
“I could have done without the blood-stained mattress and the (actual)
chunk of poop on my bedspread, but I didn’t expect the Hilton.”
2. Rest in Peace
“I spent the night in the (hotel) room and experienced a friendly spirit.
This presence got into bed with me, an old lady, she was nice and I just
patted her on the head and we had a comfortable restful sleep. I think I
will ask for a different room next time.”
3. Mime Over Matter
“The neighborhood is filled with aggressive mimes, including one sitting
on a toilet bowl (how creative). Room cards are changed for no reason and
you cannot understand why you can’t get into your room. All in all it was
a very unpleasant stay.”
4. Deep Thoughts
“Time could be spent pondering over the meaning of some of the many safety
signs around the complex. Out of the several we managed to identify, the
two we found to be of greatest use were 1. Not to step on any crocodiles
whilst bare foot, and 2. No ugly, or spotty children to frequent the
pool.”
5. Is That Really What You Meant?
“I echo the sentiments of the previous reviewer. The ambience is lacking
to be sure, but the food is like angels copulating on your tongue.”
6. Freezing Over
“Sleeping in the street during a blizzard would be better than staying at
this hell-hole. The place should be imploded.”
7. No Accounting for Taste
“Subject: Crab Trap Restaurant. We enjoyed our experience at the Crap
Trap. The food is very good with nice size portions and reasonable prices
(especially for the shore). The only down side is the wait.”
8. A Sore for Sight Eyes
“Food not special, and the couple that lives there with their dog is very
‘homey’ and ‘folksy’ types. Not for everyone. The premises are well kept,
but some private parts we could see thru open door were not.”
9. Leave It to Beaver
“Imagine awakening at 4:00 am to the sound of loud footsteps in the
stairwell, only to realize that someone is drunk and knocking on your
hotel door saying, ‘Beaver…it’s me. Let me in, Beaver.’”
10. The Last Laugh
“In fact, I told the management there that I was putting a review on your
website about their poor service and they laughed at me and said go right
ahead, nobody reads the TripAdvisor site.”
“With millions of reviews and opinions on TripAdvisor, in addition to helpful travel advice, there is some great color, and these comments got the most laughs from our editors.” said Michele Perry, director of communications for TripAdvisor.
About TripAdvisor Media Network
TripAdvisor(R) Media Network, operated by TripAdvisor, LLC, attracts nearly 30 million monthly visitors (source: comScore Media Metrix, Digital Calculator Report, July 2007) across eight popular travel brands, TripAdvisor(R) sites, bookingbuddy.com (TM), cruisecritic.com(TM), independenttraveler.com(TM), seatguru.com(R), smartertravel.com(TM), travel- library.com(TM) and travelpod.com(TM). TripAdvisor-branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with more than 25 million monthly visitors, five million registered members and 10 million reviews and opinions.
SOURCE: TripAdvisor/PRNewswire.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Packing up the dog for the trip to Grandma’s? Here are some ideas for stress-free travel with your pet from 4everPets®, makers of natural nutrition products for dogs and cats:
Crate expectations: Whether traveling by air or car, a familiar crate will relax your dog. Never put a leash in the crate, as your pet could get tangled in it.
Hello gorgeous: Brushing your dog and clipping its nails before you leave will make traveling more comfortable.
Make a list: Bring water, your dog’s favorite food, bedding, toy and dishes, pet first-aid kit and old sheets to cover car seats and furniture.
Check it twice: Identify your dog with a current tag or microchip. Carry current health and rabies certificates and a recent photo.
Stair hazard: Did you know that a dog’s claws and fur can get caught in escalators? Pick up or crate your dog, or take the elevator.
No tranquilizers: The ASPCA advises not to use sedatives, because they interfere with balance and can hamper breathing. Instead, use Missing You herbal formula to relax your dog without dizziness or drowsiness.
Chow time: Traveling by car? Feed a light meal three or four hours before you leave. Never feed a dog in a moving car. Dogs should fly on an empty stomach.
Open wide: Do a health check every day you’re away from home, says the American Veterinary Medical Association. Look for runny nose and eyes, scratching or biting, lumps, limping or loss of appetite. Check any concerns with a local veterinarian.
About 4everPets
Based in Kelowna, B.C., Canada, 4everPets serves pets and their owners with all-natural nutrition products for dogs and cats. All 4everPets products are made in North America with human-grade ingredients. Gateway Nutrition Products of Everson, Wash., distributes 4everPets in the United States. Web site: http://www.4everpets.com/
Source: 4everPets
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Car sharing clubs, which have been around for years in European cities, are becoming popular in North America with Zipcar, one of the fastest-growing newcomers to the market.
Zipcar is a car sharing service that has thousands of cars, available by the hour or by the day. You can choose from over 20 different car models to fit your needs. You don’t pay for gas, insurance, or the Zipcar’s reserved parking space. Zipcar members have reported savings of over $5,000 per year by using Zipcars.
Right now, Zipcar is operating in and around Boston, New York City, Washington DC, Toronto, Chicago, Vancouver, and San Francisco. It’s also in London. Other cities will soon join the list as the result of a recent merger between Zipcar and Flexcar.
Whether you need to attend a meeting, visit friends in the ‘burbs, or take someone out to lunch, Zipcar is an efficient way to handle your transportation needs. It’s also handy when you visit a distant city — your membership is valid wherever Zipcar goes.
Check it out at http://www.zipcar.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".
Do you want your next adventure more than just a visit to a new place? Do you want to make a difference?
Check out these eye-opening South Africa tours at The Cultural Explorer , specialists in cultural and philanthropic travel.
Animals and Art — VENDA INDIGENOUS ART TOUR
For adventurous travelers who love art and animals, too! Travelers stay in one-of-a-kind hotels, visit mystical regions few tourists see, and view animals in luxurious, eco-friendly safari camps. This is a unique opportunity to get to know various South African artists and visit with them in their studios. This trip includes optional cultural excursions to local villages and philanthropic projects. This exclusive itinerary really gets off the beaten path on this trip and venture into mystical parts of South Africa where most tourists don't go. If you like art and culture and also want to spend timeout on safari with the animals - this trip is for you!
• May 17-31, 2008
Mothers&Daughters - South Africa Adventure
For women only. This tour is designed to introduce Cultural Explorer travelers to the women and children of South Africa as they tour this spectacular country. It is a rare opportunity for families to learn and explore together. Both educational and fun. The May trip is scheduled around the 2008 Mother's Day holiday on May 11. For ages 15 and above–because travelers will witness and discuss the impact of AIDS on families and communities.
• May 3-17, 2008
* June 7-21, 2008
Making a Difference — South Africa
A special two week hands-on tour that gives travelers the opportunity to get involved and make a difference, while they explore and learn about South Africa. Here is what travelers can expect: Visit rural schools and develop plans to help with computer work stations or the library. Tutor students in English. Visit local orphanages and learn how to help AIDS orphans. Come up with a plan to get electricity to Zulu villages. Take a group of township kids on a field trip to the ocean or Robben Island. Observe animal rescue. Experience life in the townships; see what it is like to live without electricity or running water. Visit projects active in helping women develop much-needed work skills. Give developing entrepreneurs business or marketing advice and suggestions. Plus travelers will hike the Drakenberg mountains, walk Indian Ocean beaches, tour Robben island, shop Cape Town, and visit with the African Jackass penguins.
• February 9-23, 2008
• March 1-15, 2008
• September 6-20, 2008
• October 18-November 1, 2008
The Cultural Explorer (http://theculturalexplorer.com/)is a member of the African Travel Association (ATA) and is based in San Francisco. The company offers both group and individual trips and specializes in cultural and philanthropic travel experiences.
The Cultural Explorer
211 27th Avenue, Suite 301
San Francisco, CA 94121
Phone: 415-387-1335
Fax: 415-386-8334
International Cell: 415-994-0019
E-mail: Pat@TheCulturalExplorer.com
Ellen Barone is an American writer and wanderer. She co-founded and publishes the group travel blog YourLifeIsATrip.com and is currently at work on her first book "I Could Live Here".