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Wednesday Women: Sally

Meet Sally.

I am a travel agent and travel blogger who has always had big dreams and an even bigger bucket list. I help travel bloggers kickstart and grow their blogs to share their experiences with the world. Apart from my passion for travel, my secret loves are tea, TED Talks and running (even though I’m not very good at it).

What inspired/inspires you to travel?

Since I went on student exchange to Italy in year eleven, the world has opened up for me. That experience challenged me but also made me forever curious of foreign languages, cultures and the never-ending beauty of travel.

Where is your favorite destination to date?

I have been to so many amazing destination that it is a struggle to pick just one. My favourite destination to date would have to be a toss up between New York City with its incredible thriving mix of cultures and the Maldives with its million shades of blue water and the generosity of its locals.

How do you prefer to travel? Solo or With a group? Why?

It really depends on the trip but I do like solo travel because I feel it gives you a more authentic experience of the culture as it forces you to get out there and explore and meet new people. And, with solo travel you can do what YOU want instead of just doing all of the touristy things that are expected of you. The other great thing about solo travel is it really gives you a chance to grow personally through the challenges you face along the way and the time you have for reflection.

Do you think there is a difference traveling as a woman?

I think people are a lot more wary that women should not travel on their own but to be honest I have never felt unsafe whilst travelling solo. I think as long as you are aware of your surroundings and don’t take unnecessary risks you shouldn’t come across any danger.

How do you plan your trips?

As a travel agent, I find with trips I book for clients I am a lot more meticulous and organised than I am with my own trips. I do like to have some things organised and read up on other blogs about where the best hidden places to go are but I also like to go with the flow a little bit and see what happens.

When is your next one?

My next trip is actually to the Philippines in October which I am extremely excited for. The Philippines has been on my bucket list for a while now and is definitely an up and coming destination at the moment. I got invited on this trip by Philippines Tourism as a travel agent to go and experience what it is like to travel there. They are splitting the group up into three and I have not heard which region I will be going to just yet but I can’t wait. The three options were Boracay, Palawan or Cebu and Bohol. I said surprise me!

Any advice you would like to give to your fellow travelers?

My advice would be to get outside your comfort zone when you are travelling. I mean isn’t that the whole point?! Meet new people, see new things, experience new cultures and do things you wouldn’t normally do at home

Want to know more about Sally?

Safe Travels by Sally

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Wednesday Women : Sianna

Meet Sianna.

Hello, my name is Sianna and I am Bulgarian travel blogger. Beside my passion for travelling and exploring the world I have just graduated university with a diploma in Fashion Design and currently work as a freelancer. At EoStories we are hunting for cool hostels and places around the world. I love new cities, hipster cafes, design hostels and good food.

What inspired/inspires you to travel?

I travel to eat! That’s an inside joke we have at EoStories because when we are travelling we always aim to find the best food places that are not in the guide books and try the local cuisine. Sometimes the cafes and ice cream shops in our bucket list are more than the famous landmarks in the city. Joke aside, I travel because it gives me a lot of new points of view and perspectives, makes me constantly change and grow. There’s no other feeling like arriving at a new place you don’t know and the endless opportunities it gives you. I’ve studied abroad twice and it significantly changed me in both personal and professional way. New skills, knowledge, inspiration, stories and ideas are just some of the things you can gain through travelling. Some of the people I’ve met are now really good friends and others have influenced me without even knowing it.

Where is your favorite destination to date?

This is a hard question as I’ve loved most of the places I’ve been to. They just all have something special or specific that made me love them – the architecture, the people, the way my visit there made me feel, the lessons I’ve learned. I loved my stay in Poland when I was studying there and I think it is a gorgeous country that is really underrated. Italy is always in my heart and I am dreaming to go back for a food and culture road trip. London is a place I could go back to as many times as I can and would love to live there – so many vibrant people and creative spirit. This summer I’ve discovered Slovenia that surprised me with its nature and beauty and I can’t wait to go back.

How do you prefer to travel? Solo or With a group? Why?

I prefer to travel with a friend or a small group of friends. I haven’t travelled solo extensively (though I went to study abroad alone if that counts) but I feel I might want to try it soon. I also don’t like to travel with an organized group because I want to organize the trip and the places I am visiting myself. When I travel with friends with similar interests it is much easier and fun to explore the new places!

Do you think there is a difference traveling as a woman?

Unfortunately, there are some destinations that are safer for guys rather than girls. Lately there are more and more situations of girls travelling solo that has been harassed so I think there is a difference but this shouldn’t stop us from travelling and exploring this beautiful world. Just use common sense, try to stay safe, plan ahead and travel in a group when you feel vulnerable.

How do you plan your trips?
Some of my trips are rather impulsive – seeing a cheap plane ticket or a close by destination and it is decided. I’ve traveled only around Europe so I don’t usually buy tickets and plan long ahead. I plan about 4-6 weeks ahead when it comes to transportation and 2 weeks or less for the hostels. I try not to plan everything and leave some things to fate. After all the best trips are the ones that happen by accident. We had a 4-hour layover and instead of staying at the airport in Sweden we jumped to explore a small town close by and it was an amazing decision. (article about it if interested – https://eostories.com/2016/03/13/nykoping-sweden/)
After transportation and accommodation is settled I start searching for the basic must-do things in the new destination. Once they are covered it’s time for the fun part of the research for me – I start looking for off the beaten path places where the locals go. This is also the most interesting part of any trip.
When is your next one?
As I am currently working on a personal project that is in development and expected to be launched soon, I try to reduce the travelling to a minimum. This is a seriously hard thing to do and I already feel like an addict waiting for the next travel dose. Especially when friends are constantly inviting you to join their trips because they know that you are always up for travelling. Hopefully some more European adventures are waiting in November!

Any advice you would like to give to your fellow travelers?

There are many opportunities for travelling – you just have to look for them and grab them! From low-budget airlines with tickets for 10 euro (Thank you , Ryanair!) to working or studying abroad and European exchange projects. You have to be a bit creative when planning a trip but it can be done on a budget with some research in advance. All this “effort” can bring you to amazing destinations and experiences! Don’t forget your smile!

Want to know more about Sianna?

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Wednesday Women: Kathy

Meet Kathy.

I’m Kathy from the North of England. In 2008 I went from package holidays to traveling solo around the world and now I have visited over 58 countries. I have made true friends, experienced the lure of travels and grown in confidence everyday.I have traveled to may places alone, made friends I will never forget and showed people you can travel safely as a female. My passion is exploring the road less traveled and being immersed in different cultures.

What inspired/inspires you to travel?

I have an overwhelming urge to get up and go. It’s like having an itch which I have to scratch, I just need to go and have a look. I want to learn about other cultures, see different countries and open my mind to how other people live their lives. In addition, it’s the people who I have met on the way. The little old lady on the bus, the first time backpacker in Thailand and the local tour guide in Nepal. They all enrich my life and have given me long-lasting memories.
Where is your favorite destination to date?

I have two. I love Taiwan and Myanmar. The locals are such wonderful people. So kind and gentle. There are amazing things to see in both countries but if I had to narrow it down to just one place then it would be Bagan in Myanmar.

How do you prefer to travel? Solo or With a group? Why?

This is a tough one. I think I am going to say Solo as I then have the best of both worlds. When travelling solo you get to meet people. It gives you the freedom to travel with lots of different groups of people but also gives you the time that everyone needs on their own. By doing this, I have met so many amazing friends who I have met up with time and time again on my travels.

Do you think there is a difference traveling as a woman?

Yes. There is a definite safety aspect for females travelling. You might not feel vulnerable but you really are. I have received a lot of unwanted attention in some countries however I have also been offered some amazing experiences due to being a solo female traveller. It is just hard to know who to trust. For example; in Myanmar, a young lad took me around the area on his motorbike for 3 days, all because he wanted to practice his English. He introduced me to his family and we have become life long friends.

How do you plan your trips?

I find the flights, either the cheapest ones that fly out of my local airport or to the place that I am really inspired to go. I use Skyscanner and Momondo for this. I then research the places in the destination I am going to, using Travel blogs, Wikitravel etc. Next I work out how to get to these places eg. bus, train, hitch hike, hire car. A lot of the time, I just have a bit of an idea where I want to go but never have things set in stone. Plans change and I want to be flexible.

When is your next one?

I am currently in Norway after getting £39 return flights to Oslo. We have hired a car and currently on a road trip round the South West Norway.

Any advice you would like to give to your fellow travelers?

Follow travel blogs which will give you inspiration and tips on where and how to travel. Act confident when you are lost in major cities to prevent from being a target in some countries. But don’t forget to ask for help when you need it. Nip into a cafe, buy a drink and take some time out. Ask a member of staff to help you with directions etc.

Want to know more about Kathy?

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Fashion Friday: Frankie

Meet Frankie.Who are you?

Who am I? Whoever you want me to be. Kidding. Hello world 😆 This is Francis Peter aka Frankie to those who I am close to.I’m a photographer, a fashion stylist? Ha! I hate titles! I have my hand in so many different interests. (It’s something I’m thankful for..the ability to explore different lanes and avenues). About 5 years ago I founded Style Through My Eyes, a site geared to show the world (as it states) style through my eyes. Lately though I’ve geared the focus towards others. After all, who wants to see just one solo perspective?

Sneakers or Chelseas?

I honestly enjoy both. Chelsea’s are great, I own a couple pairs but I’m more comfortable in a pair of sneakers. I grew up on Nike and Michael Jordan so I have quite a soft spot/weakness for sneakers. As a kid my parents bought me 2 pair of sneakers a year..1 usually for first day of school then again in the Summer on my birthday. As I grew older and began making (and saving) money I began to save up for and buyin certain sneakers I recall admiring as a kid. I mostly keep it to classics like Jordan 1-10 and Nike Air Max with the occasional Adidas, Vans and Converse mixed in. That collection has since grown into..well I can probably go at least 125 straight days without wearing the same pair of shoes. Yee!

What is a trend you would like to see end? And or comeback?

Honestly, I don’t really follow trends. I just wear what I like, “on trend or not”. My style is quite versatile (as you’ll see in these photos). I usually dress on how I feel or for the occasion..but I abide by “Rules are meant to be broken” and “Expect the unexpected”. Most of the pieces in my closet are what I feel are classic wardrobe essentials/staples that will never really go out of style and transcend over time. Pieces I or you can look back on even 30 years from now and say “Oh I still have that jacket..and those shoes!”

Style crush?

Damn. That’s really tough. I have a couple that I draw influence from..

Ryan Gosling. “Easy.” Be it in a tux or leather jacket and holey vintage tee. Watch “Place Beyond The Pines”, “Drive” and “Crazy, Stupid Love”..his style is beyond versatile.

David Beckham. “Man. Crush.” No but for real. I admire his sense of style from the easy t shirt and jeans, his ever changing hair style to the tattoos to his wife (Victoria..let’s not get me started on her..) and family. He’s what I’d refer to as “goals”.

Kanye West. How can I describe him? He’s..”Kanye“. I was born and raised in New Orleans but moved to Chicago before middle school. To me, Kanye’s persona, attitude and style of dress really embodies..Chicago. It’s simple (plain t shirt, jeans..albeit usually expensive ha paired with rare sneakers) yet subtly flashy and flamboyant (chain and gold teeth lol). It makes me laugh that the world is so shocked when Kanye openly voices his opinion on whatever issue. Come to Chicago, most people I know have no problem speaking their mind.

Gilda Ambrosio. She’s a fashion consultant. I love the way she dresses and puts pieces together. It’s unexpected and very eclectic!

Monika Pardala. “Simply Chic”. Also known as “Chicago In Stilettos”. I very randomly met her prior to starting my blog in 2012. She was the first street style photo I ever snapped with my new Nikon. I love her how minimal and easy her sense of style is.

Advice for other bloggers/creatives?

“The gratification comes in the doing, not in the results.”

-James Dean , it’s a quote I live by.

With style and fashion, I’ve come to realize that there is an over abundance of influence and inspiration floating around in this world..ready to be consumed. It’s a matter of..how are you taking that influence and inspiration that you’ve found… and make it your own then differentiate yourself from everyone else? Key words there being..”make it your own”. You don’t want to be known as “Oh he/she reminds me of..” ..you want to be known as..the first..you.

Perhaps then..someone will then..be influenced by..you and take the inspiration drawn from you and make it their own. It’s a never ending ongoing circle 🔄

Thank you so much for reaching out and wanting to feature me on your blog ✌🏽️🙌🏽🤗

Want to learn more about Frankie?

Style Through My Eyes

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Wednesday Women: Courtney

Meet Courtney.

Hi, my name is Courtney, and I’m a travel-obsessed twenty something! I come from a city called Wollongong on the south coast of NSW, Australia, about an hour and a half south of Sydney. I love the outdoors and exploring beautiful landscapes, and in the summer I basically live at the beach. I work in marketing & communications at a travel company, and save every penny I earn to go on adventures!

What inspired/inspires you to travel?

The thing I love most about travel is that every destination you visit, every person you meet, every culture you discover, and every experience that you have is different. You’re continuously challenging your perspective every time you visit somewhere new. I’m inspired by these differences, and am determined to seek out as many as I can, and become as worldly as humanly possible.

Where is your favorite destination to date?

It’s hard to choose a favourite destination, but if I had to then I can’t go past Rarotonga, Cook Islands. I’m a beach lover, and Raro is a paradise like no other. The people, the beaches, the landscape, the culture…. Everything about it is incredible. Plus, there’s something for everyone; from those who seek a relaxed, beach holiday to those who seek an adventure holiday full of thrills. It’s also perfect for families, couples, groups of friends or solo travellers!

How do you prefer to travel? Solo or With a group? Why?

I’ve never done a fully solo trip, but even if I had I think I’d have to say a group, or at least with one other person. I like to share experiences, especially when travelling. Obviously, solo travellers meet plenty of new people on their journey, but I prefer to travel with at least one other person I know. I spent a week in San Francisco by myself at the end of my summer working as a camp counselor and I felt incredibly lonely without someone to share the experience with.

Do you think there is a difference traveling as a woman?

I guess that depends on where you go! As much as I hate saying it, I do feel safer when I’m travelling with a male. My friend and I (both girls) had a few uncomfortable moments during our eight-week stint in the USA, and I think these could’ve been avoided had we been travelling with a guy. I do admire those independent women who travel to dangerous countries on their own – their spirit and desire to change the way others think is very inspiring.

How do you plan your trips?

Usually I figure out a destination I want to visit, and then go from there! I see if there’s anyone interested in going with me, work out the best time I can go, and pretty much wing the rest. I like to be spontaneous when I’m travelling, but there are some things you do need to plan in advance!

When is your next one?

Although I’ve got nothing booked, I’m planning to travel to Europe in the northern summer next year. I’ve only touched upon mainland Europe in my previous trips, and am dying to visit Italy! Specially, Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast – get me into that hot Mediterranean sun!

Any advice you would like to give to your fellow travelers?

My biggest piece of advice would be to save, save, save! There’s nothing worse than looking forward to a trip, then realizing halfway through that you can’t afford to have the experience you expected. I’ve found myself short of cash on too many occasions due to my terrible budgeting, and have vowed to never again go anywhere unless I have saved enough!

Want to learn more about Courtney?

Courty Stelt

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Wednesday Women: Marina

Meet Marina. I am a french/german traveler who currently studies in Buenos Aires. I started traveling with my dad as a kid, exploring mostly Africa and Europe. Since then, the “travelbug” kind of got me.

During the last years I lived on three different continents and I am definitely not ready to settle yet.

What inspired/inspires you to travel?

Due to my two nationalities and my family living in three different countries I always was on the move. When I was thirteen my dad took me for a thrilling African safari. Afterwards I only had one wish, to see as much of the world as I can.

I started reading books like “Into the wild”, “wild” or “the beach” and felt travel sick, when I was at home. People who live out of a backpack are my true heroes.

Where is your favorite destination to date?

Koh Rong Samloem. It’s a tropical, wild Island in Cambodia – not to mix up with the party Island Koh Rong.

It has no infrastructure, no wifi, no supermarkets. Just endless white beaches, a dschungel (jungle in english) and great snorkeling spots. There is one hostel on the other end of the island, a true backpacking resort at the end of the world. I spend the most adventurous, wild days there.

How do you prefer to travel? Solo or With a group? Why?

Currently I prefer to travel solo, because I kind of like the idea to decide about everything I do, myself. I do not have to worry about other people, I don’t have to make compromises or sacrifices. Also, even if you are travelling alone, you never really are. With all the people out there exploring the world, you always have a second family wherever you are.

If I do not travel alone it is with my best friend from childhood. Because she understands what it means to be a traveler. We never make sacrifices, we just decide to split for a while and rejoin later, when we have different plans.

Do you think there is a difference traveling as a woman?

The only difference might be the safety. Often women are easier to take advantage of. But besides that, I think there is no big difference to men traveling the world.

We live in a world where there are more female traveler than male ones. So I think, for us it’s the perfect time to go and explore it.

How do you plan your trips?

Most of the time I have a country in mind. But then I change my plans and book a flight to a totally different country.

Then I do a lot of research on blogs or pinterest, just to find out later, that the best way to learn about a country is to actually be there. So now, I literally just book a flight and leave.

Once I even traveled to Czech Republic just with a handbag with my money and my phone, because it was so spontaneous I did not even had the time to go home to pack stuff…

When is your next one?

Argentina is currently my home base. But I need to go to Chile or Uruguay for a little visa run. I might stay for a week and explore some parts of the Country.

Any advice you would like to give to your fellow travelers?

As long as you are young and have the time, go see the world. If it’s just you, or with your best friend or boyfriend, go and explore. The only regrets you will have, are the things you wanted to do, but actually never have.

Want to know more about Marina?

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How to survive being the traveling friend

You see the inside of airport terminals more than you’ve seen your friend’s (not-so) new apartment. You feel like an outsider at brunch because “you should’ve been there last Sunday to see blah do blah blah & blah”. You’ve had layovers that lasted longer than girls’ night.And while you love your friends, you love exploring new soils more. I’ve noticed that the more trips I go on, the more distance there is between my friends and I. This recent trip has brought more light to my eyes than any other. When I first came back from my move to Milan, they were excited to have me back but of course I was greeted with the famous question “So when do you leave again?”. That’s also my family’s number one topic! “What?! You’re in town? Must not be for long, when do you leave? When is your next trip?” While I would love to say that there is a loving tone when asked but more often than not its more a tone of resentment. Towards me, or the fact that I’m always on the go. At first, I was sad about it. I should be able to travel and have friends, right? I mean it makes no sense that I can make and keep in touch with friends from all over the world but I’m not even be able to connect with my friends from back home. I think its more of a travelers woe. After talking with a friend (she gets me, she’s a traveler too) she let me know that it happens to the best of us, and I’m not alone.

Of course you can’t help but wonder though, is there a remedy? Even if there is, is the relationship worth fixing? I think with many test and trials, the strong will survive. I may lose friends to traveling, but its shown me friends that I should value a lot more. Muneek said it best “Not everyone signs up to be a long distance friend”.

While any departure is typically sad, these lost friendships haven’t been. People come and people go, myself included. But what makes this sorrow a little sweet, is that I am a traveler, I’m an expert at moving on. That’s how you’ll survive.

Walk With Me: Paris, France

So, I’m scrolling through my phone while on my flight to San Diego, and I stumble upon a plethora of images from my trip to Paris. Some are gems that I’ve never shared with anyone until today. Take a walk with me…

Wednesday Women : Muneek

Meet Muneek, a Jamaican born budding photographer whose soul is on a journey.

What inspired/inspires you to travel?

Other than movies like Under the Tuscan Sun and Eat Pray Love (I know very cliché but what can I say they’re great!) I was inspired to travel from a burning curiosity within my heart and perfect timing. Coming from a small island and humble beginnings I always swore to myself I would travel the world even if my family didn’t agree. I had to see what life was like in other countries and satisfy my soul with it’s beauty.

“A person does not grow from the ground like a vine or a tree, one is not part of a plot of land. Mankind has legs so it can wander.” The Wanderess (Great book!)

Although my roots are at home, I do have limbs and to not wander would do them injustice so to wander was my only option.

In the mystic parish in Portland, Jamaica. Where there is the sea, the mountains, the rivers, the lagoon and much more.

Where is your favorite destination to date?

Other than Jamaica my favourite place to date is Milan, Italy. It is a world of fantasy that brought out the best in me. Milan and I have a special bond.

Sunday’s market at Navigli (Milan, Italy) is more than pleasant. With the sunset in view and the savoring smell of pastries and coffee, it’s always a treat.

How do you prefer to travel? Solo or With a group? Why?

I like to travel solo as well as within a group. Depending on where my head is at, I decide what’s best for me in the moment. However, the essence of life is connection so even when on a solo journey I love to meet people on the way. The more the merrier!

Do you think there is a difference traveling as a woman?

Yes there is definitely a difference. Although us women travelers are strong and fierce, sometimes going to a place where you know no one can leave you feeling a little bit vulnerable and unsafe. We are often seen as a targets more than men are which is unfortunate, but that is why it’s imperative to do your research and take whatever precautions you need to to take to feel safe.

La Sagrada Familia in Spain. The picture speaks for itself, breathtaking!

How do you plan your trips?

I tend to buy the ticket first and worry about everything else after! It’s normally very spontaneous and sporadic actually. I know if I want anything bad enough I’ll move mountains to get it so I always look forward to that challenge, it’s fun!

The Louvre (Paris, France) is the largest museum in the world. It never ceases to amaze me what humanity has created over the past centuries.

When is your next one?

In October I embark on a solo trip to Denmark to ride bicycles! haha rings bell

Any advice you would like to give to your fellow travelers?

My advice to to fellow travelers is if it scares you do it! (unless there is actual and imminent danger then hold off a little until you feel comfortable) Don’t listen to the people who don’t have the courage to do it themselves. To be a woman is to be warrior you can and will handle it all!

IMG_2292-2 — Bamboo rafting the famous Blue Lagoon

Want to learn more about Muneek?

Instagram: @MysticalMuneek

Website: Mystical Muneek

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