Thursday, August 9, 2007
Lost Day
Today was lost due to time travel. OK, not really. But it sounds cooler than, "I spent the day on an airplane remembering that humans really ARE animals and passed the international date line along the way."
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Last Day in London
My short stop in London is about to end. Today was my last full day here, and I made the best of it. Natalia and I started at the Royal Academy of Art, where she toured the facilities and I worked on some things outdoors, where the weather was gorgeous (warm, breezy). From there, we hopped the Tube to the Victoria and Albert Museum for New York Fashion Now (loved the Duckie Brown, Christian Joy (of Karen O fame), and Proenza Schouler) and the South Asian Art collection (for the Indian art, of course). We walked past Harrods to The Carriage Hotel for afternoon tea (delicious sandwiches--loved the egg salad--and wonderful sweets from passionfruit macaroons to raisin scones). Afterwards, we went back to Harrods to check out the tea (a great range of loose and bagged whole-leaf tea, lots of single estate teas (including some from estates I'll be visiting soon!), several notable specialty teas), sweets (oh, the beautiful macaroons and cakes at Laduree!), chocolates (more Maison du Chocolat, and tons of other brands), bar fromage, and gorgeous clothing. I was more than a little surprized to see that they have a Krispy Kreme, as it is a southern institution and NOT something particularly associted with class. I suppose it's a novelty here, like it was when it first opened in LA. When we were done shopping at Harrods, we walked around Kensington and Chelsea for a while, then had dinner at a little Italian place (where Princess Diana supposedly frequented). Then, it was back to the hostel to pack a bit and work on a crafts project I've been trying to finish. We had a great day. I'll be sure to visit London again sometime soon! (A post for when I have time: London vs. NYC. Pros and Cons of each.)
Tomorrow, we leave for Kolkata. Masala chai, here we come!
Tomorrow, we leave for Kolkata. Masala chai, here we come!
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
In London!
Natalia and I arrived in London last night. By the time we got to the hostel, everything in the neighborhood was closed, despite the fact that it's in Central London. Welcome to the UK! I'd heard that everything closes very early, but I didn't realize just how all-encompassing "everything" was in those mentions. I must be too used to "the city that never sleeps." It was OK, though. We got to walk around in the quiet for once. :)
Today, we walked around town a bit more (and noted, once again, how much quieter it is than in NYC), and then we went to the New Tate. The New Tate had a fascinating exhibit called "Global Cities," all about the development and growth of some of the major cities around the globe. The coolest part: a 3-D model of population densities in four major cities, by location. In other words, it was an overhead view of the city, with varying model heights as population density rose or fell by neighborhood. Outside of that exhibit, I really enjoyed the Surrealist area of the museum: Dreams and Poetry.
After the New Tate, we walked over to the Bramah Museum of Coffee and Tea for some Rose Congou and tea education. They were not exactly fastidious about things like spelling, but they had a wealth of information on coffee and tea, and it was very entertaining and educational. Also, learning some of the British terms for things was fun. (Example: "Cookie jars" are called "biscuit barrels.")
Next, we were off the Picadilly Circus to fight the crowd to get to the Royal Academy of Art and Fortnum & Mason. On the way, we stopped off at Minamoto Kitchoan for some Japanese wagashi (sweets, which we have yet to eat) and Maison du Chocolat for some incredible dark chocolate truffles. Yum! At Fortnum & Mason, we spent some time checking out their wide tea selection, biscuits, and teaware. (More on that later!) To end the day, we had some fish and chips at a pub. (I know, I know. But it's required, really.)
Now we're off to plan for tomorrow. Later!
Today, we walked around town a bit more (and noted, once again, how much quieter it is than in NYC), and then we went to the New Tate. The New Tate had a fascinating exhibit called "Global Cities," all about the development and growth of some of the major cities around the globe. The coolest part: a 3-D model of population densities in four major cities, by location. In other words, it was an overhead view of the city, with varying model heights as population density rose or fell by neighborhood. Outside of that exhibit, I really enjoyed the Surrealist area of the museum: Dreams and Poetry.
After the New Tate, we walked over to the Bramah Museum of Coffee and Tea for some Rose Congou and tea education. They were not exactly fastidious about things like spelling, but they had a wealth of information on coffee and tea, and it was very entertaining and educational. Also, learning some of the British terms for things was fun. (Example: "Cookie jars" are called "biscuit barrels.")
Next, we were off the Picadilly Circus to fight the crowd to get to the Royal Academy of Art and Fortnum & Mason. On the way, we stopped off at Minamoto Kitchoan for some Japanese wagashi (sweets, which we have yet to eat) and Maison du Chocolat for some incredible dark chocolate truffles. Yum! At Fortnum & Mason, we spent some time checking out their wide tea selection, biscuits, and teaware. (More on that later!) To end the day, we had some fish and chips at a pub. (I know, I know. But it's required, really.)
Now we're off to plan for tomorrow. Later!
Monday, August 6, 2007
Off to India (via London)
Today, I leave for India. After passport drama (It was filed 17 weeks in advance, and then received JUST IN TIME to get my travel visa.), changes in plans (Who knew my friend would get kicked out of Bhutan for traveling on an Overseas Citizenship of India rather than a regular Indian passport?), last-minute vaccines (NY's immunization clinic said I didn't need a second Hep-A shot. My doctor blanched at the thought of me not getting it.), and packing absurdity (Ziploc bags are my new best friends. They make anything and everything fit into one small suitcase), I am FINALLY ready to go.
First stop, London. My friend Natalia and I will enjoy three days of tea and museums (of the tea and art varieties... yes, they have a tea museum and, yes, I am amped about it). Then, we're off to Kolkata for some masala chai and culture shock. After a few days to adjust, we'll fly up to Darjeeling for cool mist, hot tea, and tours of some of the world's best tea plantations. Three-and-a-half weeks of caffeination from nation to nation. Exciting. I'll be posting a travel blog whenever possible, so check back often.
PS--If you're viewing this through Vee Tea, the post order may be funny. Try my Vee Tea Blogger page instead.
First stop, London. My friend Natalia and I will enjoy three days of tea and museums (of the tea and art varieties... yes, they have a tea museum and, yes, I am amped about it). Then, we're off to Kolkata for some masala chai and culture shock. After a few days to adjust, we'll fly up to Darjeeling for cool mist, hot tea, and tours of some of the world's best tea plantations. Three-and-a-half weeks of caffeination from nation to nation. Exciting. I'll be posting a travel blog whenever possible, so check back often.
PS--If you're viewing this through Vee Tea, the post order may be funny. Try my Vee Tea Blogger page instead.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Packing List
Next week, I leave for India (Kolcata, Darjeeling, and Delhi). Below is my packing list. A good packing list takes a long time to compile, and there seem to be very on the internet made by women. I hope this is of use to my fellow travelers, especially those out there who (like me) feel the need to bring face scrub and Q-tips.
General Use:
Suitcase--lightweight, sturdy, lockable... or you could go the backpack route
Lock--combination or key, for keeping the suitcase safely shut
Belt/Strap/Bike Lock Chain--for holding the suitcase securely shut and fastened to whatever surface it's supposed to be attached to (top of the bus, bottom of your train seat, etc.)
Ziploc/Space Saver Bags (various sizes)--for packing everything as effectively and efficiently as possible, less air=more space, bring extras
Power Adapter--two-way or multi-function, depending on how often and where you travel
Swiss Army Knife--I don't think I need to explain this one. Just pack it.
Small Sewing Kit--for emergency repairs... or you could get things repaired... it depends on how often you plan to move around
Flashlight--small, lightweight, reliable, with extra batteries
Lighter--for emergencies/blackouts/smoking (if you smoke)... Just don't pack it in your carry-on!
Scotch Tape--just in case... It's very handy stuff!
Water Bottle and Water Sanitizing Tablets--more ethical than bottled water, though I can understand wanting a "cold one" in the Kolkata heat; I like the Platypus bottles because they collapse as you use them
Clip Belt/Purse--Many people use belts to clip things on (iPod, flashlight, etc.). Personally, I prefer a lightweight purse with an over-the-shoulder strap and a zipper.
Guidebook/Maps/Travel Notes--for, you know, getting around and stuff... kind of important
Language Dictionary--optional
Umbrella--tiny, collapsible, lightweight, sturdy, essential during monsoon season, but otherwise a "buy as needed" item
Sunglasses and Sunglasses Case--utilitarian, UV protective, durable
Documents and Money Stuff:
Passport and Copy of Passport--Keep these in separate places. Also, if you live in the US, apply for your passport EXTRA early. Mine took 17 weeks to process, and arrive just in time for me to go to the Indian Consulate to get my visa.
Visas--all applicable
Other ID--useful... Preferably state-issued
Credit Card--Check which kind is more commonly accepted where you plan to travel. Call your credit card company before you leave to let them know you're traveling; otherwise, they may put your account on hold for "suspicious activity."
Cash--your country's and theirs
Vaccination Certificate--required for crossing some borders; I KNOW you don't want to use the sketchy, expensive ones they sell at the crossing
Extra Passport Photos--in case you need an extra visa for a different travel zone or nearby country
Money Wallet--lightweight, easy to carry close to the body
Health/Sanitation/Beauty:
Soap and Soap dish/Liquid Soap and Washcloth--I'm going with the soap and soap dish. If you decide to use liquid soap and a washcloth, be sure to pack extra Ziploc bags for the bottle. Nothing's worse than a suitcase full of suds.
Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Dental Floss--Travel toothbrushes are best.
Shampoo and Conditioner--Once again, in a Ziploc bag.
Deodorant--especially necessary in the hotter climates
Face Soap and Scrub--optional
Moisturizer--body and/or face; if you don’t think you'll need much, just bring a sampler size
Razor--Remember that skit on Kids in the Hall where the "vacation beards" make people go crazy and kill themselves? No? Never mind...
Nail Clippers, Tweezers--If these are on your Swiss Army Knife, you can skip them. I'm particular about my grooming products, so I'm still bringing them.
Antiseptic--I'm a spaz. I need this. And I need...
Band-Aids--Various sizes and shapes
Malaria Tablets--There are two kinds. One can cause hair loss and the other can cause severe sunburn. The kind that can cause severe sunburn is more common, so (unfortunately) that's the one I have. Let's raise a (tea) toast to Vee NOT getting second degree burns in Kolkata!
Aspirin/Ibuprofen--I'm going to venture a guess that you will need this at some point in your trip. At least bring a little two-pack so you have some on you when you really need it.
Ciprofloxacin--You know that horror story you heard from your friend who ate a salad on vacation and was violently ill for three days? Don't let that be you.
Imodium--Once again, Delhi belly is no fun.
Any (Legal) Drugs or Supplements You Regularly Take/Use--birth control pills, vitamin B12, probiotics, anti-migraine pills, eczema ointment, and the like
Sun block--ESPECIALLY if you are fair-skinned (like me) or you're taking the anti-malarial pills that increases chances of sunburn; note the SPF and reapply often*
Aloe Vera--for the sunburn that (if you're like me) you will inevitably get, despite all the precautions
Hand Sanitizer--wipes, gel, liquid, whatever... you'll really want it on multiple occasions
Toilet Paper--optional, but I think it's worth it to bring a roll and avoid the scratchy stuff
Tissues--one of those little handy packs, for dust, pollen, travel bugs, tear-jerker moments, etc.
Q-tips--I think that Q-tips are one of the greatest things in the whole wide world. I'm packing two per day.
Lip Gloss, Make-Up--optional, though lip gloss with SPF can be a big plus for even the least glamour-fabulous traveler
Tampons/Pads--as needed (It is common for female travelers to stop menstruating, so don't worry too much if you think you need them, and then you don't.)
Condoms--as needed (Though the HIV/AIDS rate is lower than previously estimated, it's still very high. Please be safe.)
Glasses/Contacts/Contact Solution--as needed
Flip Flops--for showering; a necessity if you're staying in a hostel
*"All Day" doesn't really mean all day. "Waterproof" means you can run into the waves for two minutes, and then pat yourself dry. A proper application of sun block is 1-oz (a shot glass full) for your body, plus more for your face. The FDA is currently revising the way sun blocks are rated and what claims they can make on the packaging. For now, just know that the labels don't really mean what they say.
Clothing:**
Buff--a multipurpose circular band of cloth that comes in so handy you'll wonder how you lived without it before, great for packing light enough to make room for the face scrub, Q-tips, and other small luxuries
Tank Tops/Cotton Bras--for wearing under other clothing (female travelers should not bare their shoulders in India, though midriffs are considered to be much tamer than we view them in the West)
Lightweight Local Garments--I'm going salwar kameez (tunic and flowy pants, with a scarf) shopping there. The local dress is, well, suited to the local climate. If you don't feel comfortable doing this for whatever reason, I suggest lightweight pants and (non-offensive) tee shirts.
Sweaters--Another "buy there" item (yay for yak hair!), for the mist and chill of the Himalayas.
Hats--This varies with where and when you're traveling. I'm brining one for hot weather and one for cold weather. The one for hot weather has a wide brim, SPF protection, breathability, and a waterproof coating. The one for cold weather is warm and water-resistant.
Socks--moisture-wicking, good for hot and for cold, suited to your activities
Hiking Shoes--great for the mountainous regions, make sure they're broken in BEFORE you leave
Waterproof Shoes/Sandals--great for monsoon season
Other Comfortable Shoes--optional
Dress Shoes--I'm buying one pair of flats there for nights out on the town. Optional.
Stockings--For when I'm going somewhere dressy.
Nice Salwar Kameez--Ditto above.
Sleepwear--optional
Swimsuit--should be modest, only necessary if you actually plan to go swimming
Purse--also mentioned in "Documents and Money Stuff," but worth mentioning here, too, especially if you want to pack a (small) nice one for a fancy dinner or whatever
**Obviously, this list will vary from person to person much more than the other lists. This is what I chose to pack. Take what you will, fill in the rest.
Other Useful Things:
Contact List--useful phone numbers, addresses, etc.
Phone Card--make sure you can use it from the country you're traveling to, or buy one there
Spoon--useful for sauces, chutneys, and the like, especially when eating on the street in a country where most people just use their hands
iPod, iPod cHarger, iPod cAse--Two words: very necessary.
Powdered Detergent--in a Ziploc bag or Tupperware box, for handwashing delicates (do not leave delicates to the dhobi!) or washing on the run (dhobis sometimes have a one-day turnaround, so if you're hopping from place to place it may be easier to do your own washing)
Cord--a length of cord can come in incredibly handy; use it as a washing line, carrying strap, quick-fix repair, etc.; bring more than you think you'll need (10 feet plus)
Quick-Drying Towel--available in camping stores
Camera--digital or film, with extra memory cards/film
Video Camera--optional, with extra recording media
Travel Journal/Sketchbook--optional, but highly recommended
Non-Black Tea--if you crave green mid-afternoon or chamomile in the evening or... whatever (If you're traveling to, say, Japan, change this to "Non-Green Tea." If you're traveling to China, just buy it there unless it's something specific and non-Chinese.)
Tea Strainer--see my article on Infusion Methods for help selecting one
Things I Will Be Buying There:
Tea--lots of it, no explanation needed
Local Dress--I figure the locals know what's best for the heat, rain, and cold in their areas, as they've dealt with it for many generations. Also, you can get gorgeous, one-of-a-kind garments tailored for you at very little cost, which is kind of awesome. Just make sure to get the measurements taken towards the beginning of your trip, as you will probably have (temporarily) lost weight by the end.
Candles--for blackouts
Local Spices--cheaper, fresher, and easier to get than in my local market
Ayurvedic Medicines--Neem toothpaste, Pudin Hara, White Flower Balm, etc.
Local Art and Crafts--whatever strikes my fancy and is in my price range... I'm sure I'll get some scarves and fabric, maybe a small sculpture or painting... I wholeheartedly recommend buying local art whenever you can and wherever you are! If you choose carefully, it can be something you remember your trip by and treasure for many years.
So, that's it for my packing list. What else do you pack?
General Use:
Suitcase--lightweight, sturdy, lockable... or you could go the backpack route
Lock--combination or key, for keeping the suitcase safely shut
Belt/Strap/Bike Lock Chain--for holding the suitcase securely shut and fastened to whatever surface it's supposed to be attached to (top of the bus, bottom of your train seat, etc.)
Ziploc/Space Saver Bags (various sizes)--for packing everything as effectively and efficiently as possible, less air=more space, bring extras
Power Adapter--two-way or multi-function, depending on how often and where you travel
Swiss Army Knife--I don't think I need to explain this one. Just pack it.
Small Sewing Kit--for emergency repairs... or you could get things repaired... it depends on how often you plan to move around
Flashlight--small, lightweight, reliable, with extra batteries
Lighter--for emergencies/blackouts/smoking (if you smoke)... Just don't pack it in your carry-on!
Scotch Tape--just in case... It's very handy stuff!
Water Bottle and Water Sanitizing Tablets--more ethical than bottled water, though I can understand wanting a "cold one" in the Kolkata heat; I like the Platypus bottles because they collapse as you use them
Clip Belt/Purse--Many people use belts to clip things on (iPod, flashlight, etc.). Personally, I prefer a lightweight purse with an over-the-shoulder strap and a zipper.
Guidebook/Maps/Travel Notes--for, you know, getting around and stuff... kind of important
Language Dictionary--optional
Umbrella--tiny, collapsible, lightweight, sturdy, essential during monsoon season, but otherwise a "buy as needed" item
Sunglasses and Sunglasses Case--utilitarian, UV protective, durable
Documents and Money Stuff:
Passport and Copy of Passport--Keep these in separate places. Also, if you live in the US, apply for your passport EXTRA early. Mine took 17 weeks to process, and arrive just in time for me to go to the Indian Consulate to get my visa.
Visas--all applicable
Other ID--useful... Preferably state-issued
Credit Card--Check which kind is more commonly accepted where you plan to travel. Call your credit card company before you leave to let them know you're traveling; otherwise, they may put your account on hold for "suspicious activity."
Cash--your country's and theirs
Vaccination Certificate--required for crossing some borders; I KNOW you don't want to use the sketchy, expensive ones they sell at the crossing
Extra Passport Photos--in case you need an extra visa for a different travel zone or nearby country
Money Wallet--lightweight, easy to carry close to the body
Health/Sanitation/Beauty:
Soap and Soap dish/Liquid Soap and Washcloth--I'm going with the soap and soap dish. If you decide to use liquid soap and a washcloth, be sure to pack extra Ziploc bags for the bottle. Nothing's worse than a suitcase full of suds.
Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Dental Floss--Travel toothbrushes are best.
Shampoo and Conditioner--Once again, in a Ziploc bag.
Deodorant--especially necessary in the hotter climates
Face Soap and Scrub--optional
Moisturizer--body and/or face; if you don’t think you'll need much, just bring a sampler size
Razor--Remember that skit on Kids in the Hall where the "vacation beards" make people go crazy and kill themselves? No? Never mind...
Nail Clippers, Tweezers--If these are on your Swiss Army Knife, you can skip them. I'm particular about my grooming products, so I'm still bringing them.
Antiseptic--I'm a spaz. I need this. And I need...
Band-Aids--Various sizes and shapes
Malaria Tablets--There are two kinds. One can cause hair loss and the other can cause severe sunburn. The kind that can cause severe sunburn is more common, so (unfortunately) that's the one I have. Let's raise a (tea) toast to Vee NOT getting second degree burns in Kolkata!
Aspirin/Ibuprofen--I'm going to venture a guess that you will need this at some point in your trip. At least bring a little two-pack so you have some on you when you really need it.
Ciprofloxacin--You know that horror story you heard from your friend who ate a salad on vacation and was violently ill for three days? Don't let that be you.
Imodium--Once again, Delhi belly is no fun.
Any (Legal) Drugs or Supplements You Regularly Take/Use--birth control pills, vitamin B12, probiotics, anti-migraine pills, eczema ointment, and the like
Sun block--ESPECIALLY if you are fair-skinned (like me) or you're taking the anti-malarial pills that increases chances of sunburn; note the SPF and reapply often*
Aloe Vera--for the sunburn that (if you're like me) you will inevitably get, despite all the precautions
Hand Sanitizer--wipes, gel, liquid, whatever... you'll really want it on multiple occasions
Toilet Paper--optional, but I think it's worth it to bring a roll and avoid the scratchy stuff
Tissues--one of those little handy packs, for dust, pollen, travel bugs, tear-jerker moments, etc.
Q-tips--I think that Q-tips are one of the greatest things in the whole wide world. I'm packing two per day.
Lip Gloss, Make-Up--optional, though lip gloss with SPF can be a big plus for even the least glamour-fabulous traveler
Tampons/Pads--as needed (It is common for female travelers to stop menstruating, so don't worry too much if you think you need them, and then you don't.)
Condoms--as needed (Though the HIV/AIDS rate is lower than previously estimated, it's still very high. Please be safe.)
Glasses/Contacts/Contact Solution--as needed
Flip Flops--for showering; a necessity if you're staying in a hostel
*"All Day" doesn't really mean all day. "Waterproof" means you can run into the waves for two minutes, and then pat yourself dry. A proper application of sun block is 1-oz (a shot glass full) for your body, plus more for your face. The FDA is currently revising the way sun blocks are rated and what claims they can make on the packaging. For now, just know that the labels don't really mean what they say.
Clothing:**
Buff--a multipurpose circular band of cloth that comes in so handy you'll wonder how you lived without it before, great for packing light enough to make room for the face scrub, Q-tips, and other small luxuries
Tank Tops/Cotton Bras--for wearing under other clothing (female travelers should not bare their shoulders in India, though midriffs are considered to be much tamer than we view them in the West)
Lightweight Local Garments--I'm going salwar kameez (tunic and flowy pants, with a scarf) shopping there. The local dress is, well, suited to the local climate. If you don't feel comfortable doing this for whatever reason, I suggest lightweight pants and (non-offensive) tee shirts.
Sweaters--Another "buy there" item (yay for yak hair!), for the mist and chill of the Himalayas.
Hats--This varies with where and when you're traveling. I'm brining one for hot weather and one for cold weather. The one for hot weather has a wide brim, SPF protection, breathability, and a waterproof coating. The one for cold weather is warm and water-resistant.
Socks--moisture-wicking, good for hot and for cold, suited to your activities
Hiking Shoes--great for the mountainous regions, make sure they're broken in BEFORE you leave
Waterproof Shoes/Sandals--great for monsoon season
Other Comfortable Shoes--optional
Dress Shoes--I'm buying one pair of flats there for nights out on the town. Optional.
Stockings--For when I'm going somewhere dressy.
Nice Salwar Kameez--Ditto above.
Sleepwear--optional
Swimsuit--should be modest, only necessary if you actually plan to go swimming
Purse--also mentioned in "Documents and Money Stuff," but worth mentioning here, too, especially if you want to pack a (small) nice one for a fancy dinner or whatever
**Obviously, this list will vary from person to person much more than the other lists. This is what I chose to pack. Take what you will, fill in the rest.
Other Useful Things:
Contact List--useful phone numbers, addresses, etc.
Phone Card--make sure you can use it from the country you're traveling to, or buy one there
Spoon--useful for sauces, chutneys, and the like, especially when eating on the street in a country where most people just use their hands
iPod, iPod cHarger, iPod cAse--Two words: very necessary.
Powdered Detergent--in a Ziploc bag or Tupperware box, for handwashing delicates (do not leave delicates to the dhobi!) or washing on the run (dhobis sometimes have a one-day turnaround, so if you're hopping from place to place it may be easier to do your own washing)
Cord--a length of cord can come in incredibly handy; use it as a washing line, carrying strap, quick-fix repair, etc.; bring more than you think you'll need (10 feet plus)
Quick-Drying Towel--available in camping stores
Camera--digital or film, with extra memory cards/film
Video Camera--optional, with extra recording media
Travel Journal/Sketchbook--optional, but highly recommended
Non-Black Tea--if you crave green mid-afternoon or chamomile in the evening or... whatever (If you're traveling to, say, Japan, change this to "Non-Green Tea." If you're traveling to China, just buy it there unless it's something specific and non-Chinese.)
Tea Strainer--see my article on Infusion Methods for help selecting one
Things I Will Be Buying There:
Tea--lots of it, no explanation needed
Local Dress--I figure the locals know what's best for the heat, rain, and cold in their areas, as they've dealt with it for many generations. Also, you can get gorgeous, one-of-a-kind garments tailored for you at very little cost, which is kind of awesome. Just make sure to get the measurements taken towards the beginning of your trip, as you will probably have (temporarily) lost weight by the end.
Candles--for blackouts
Local Spices--cheaper, fresher, and easier to get than in my local market
Ayurvedic Medicines--Neem toothpaste, Pudin Hara, White Flower Balm, etc.
Local Art and Crafts--whatever strikes my fancy and is in my price range... I'm sure I'll get some scarves and fabric, maybe a small sculpture or painting... I wholeheartedly recommend buying local art whenever you can and wherever you are! If you choose carefully, it can be something you remember your trip by and treasure for many years.
So, that's it for my packing list. What else do you pack?
Thursday, August 2, 2007
A Shout Out
I want to give a thank you to all my readers. It's great getting email from you about what you're learning and about the information you have to share with me. Though I won't be able to respond as frequently while I'm traveling, I'll catch up when I get back. In the meantime, here's a shout out to my top five countries and states (in terms of visits and time on the site):
Total Visits:
Countries:
1. US
2. Finland
3. UK
4. Canada
5. Sweden (though New Zealand could easily overtake Sweden if it wanted)
States:
1. New York
2. California
3. North Carolina
4. Texas (Austin represent!)
5. Massachusetts (though Jersey is close behind)
Average Time on the Site:
Countries:
1. Israel
2. Bhutan
3. Trinidad/Tobago
4. Singapore
5. Thailand (though New Zealand is close behind)
States:
1. Utah
2. Kentucky
3. Missouri
4. Oregon
5. A tie! Massachusetts and New Jersey
So, thank you, readers. If you want to see your country or state represented next time I check out my Google Analytics, send a link to your local friends! (Or, if you want to promote the goodness that is Vee Tea, send it to all of your friends.) In the meantime, enjoy your tea. :)
Total Visits:
Countries:
1. US
2. Finland
3. UK
4. Canada
5. Sweden (though New Zealand could easily overtake Sweden if it wanted)
States:
1. New York
2. California
3. North Carolina
4. Texas (Austin represent!)
5. Massachusetts (though Jersey is close behind)
Average Time on the Site:
Countries:
1. Israel
2. Bhutan
3. Trinidad/Tobago
4. Singapore
5. Thailand (though New Zealand is close behind)
States:
1. Utah
2. Kentucky
3. Missouri
4. Oregon
5. A tie! Massachusetts and New Jersey
So, thank you, readers. If you want to see your country or state represented next time I check out my Google Analytics, send a link to your local friends! (Or, if you want to promote the goodness that is Vee Tea, send it to all of your friends.) In the meantime, enjoy your tea. :)
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Another Reason to Buy Organic/VeeTea Updates
Apparently, organic foods have a higher nutrient content than conventional foods. (The New York Times decided to place an ad before this page. Just click "skip in the top right corner to get past it.") I would imagine this extends to tea, too. Cool.
Normally, I'd announce a discount for tours and classes today. (They have previously been for educators and food service workers.) This month is a little (read: very) different. I'm leaving for India on the 6th (to see the tea fields and drink lots of masala chai and Darjeeling!) and I won't be back until September 1st. So, no discount this month, as I won't be here to give classes and tours.
Also, you've probably noticed that I usually post an article each Monday. Not this month. I'll resume in September. You can wait in breathless anticipation until then.
However, I will be posting a travel blog whenever possible. For those of you reading through Vee Tea, you may want to check the travel blog through Blogger instead. I'm writing blogs as I go, then entering them when I can, which causes problems with the way RSS posts them to subscriber sites (like Vee Tea). The blog orders and dates will make more sense if you read the blogs on Blogger. If you don't know what I'm talking about, just trust me and read it on Blogger.
While I'm gone, I will be able to respond to email occasionally. Don't hesitate to contact me, just know that it may take a week for me to respond.
Normally, I'd announce a discount for tours and classes today. (They have previously been for educators and food service workers.) This month is a little (read: very) different. I'm leaving for India on the 6th (to see the tea fields and drink lots of masala chai and Darjeeling!) and I won't be back until September 1st. So, no discount this month, as I won't be here to give classes and tours.
Also, you've probably noticed that I usually post an article each Monday. Not this month. I'll resume in September. You can wait in breathless anticipation until then.
However, I will be posting a travel blog whenever possible. For those of you reading through Vee Tea, you may want to check the travel blog through Blogger instead. I'm writing blogs as I go, then entering them when I can, which causes problems with the way RSS posts them to subscriber sites (like Vee Tea). The blog orders and dates will make more sense if you read the blogs on Blogger. If you don't know what I'm talking about, just trust me and read it on Blogger.
While I'm gone, I will be able to respond to email occasionally. Don't hesitate to contact me, just know that it may take a week for me to respond.
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