Ireland: Imagine The Greenest Scene Ever, Then Multiply It By 100

Irish Countryside

As Europe's arguably most charming island country, Ireland is home to Guinness, endless green countryside, and the friendliest people I've ever met. It tends to be less expensive to fly to from the US compared to other European countries - and that extra money can be put to good use! Spending a few extra days to explore the countryside and castles, having some pints at the pub - whatever you feel like doing, you'll find it in Ireland. I've been to Ireland once so far. We had a four day weekend during my study abroad program, so me and a couple friends went to Cork, Limerick, and Dublin.

Cork Ireland Blarney wanderlust

Eating at the pubs was a treat as well. I had been to a few Irish pubs around Italy, but being in a true Irish pub was a treat. I still remember my first meal in Ireland: peppered mackerel with soda bread, coleslaw, and a Guinness. So delicious.

Irish Pub

Since we took a bus from each city, we drove through the countryside. Photos cannot truly express how absolutely gorgeous and green the country in Ireland is. Imagine the greenest scene you can imagine, then multiply it by 100.

Ireland

Two of the main highlights from the weekend were visiting the Blarney Castle in Cork and going to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin. While those are two "touristy" things to do, they were well worth it and I definitely recommend them to anyone who goes to Ireland!

Blarney Castle Ireland

Playlist: Memorial Day in the USA

Today is Memorial Day in the USA, and with the holiday off of work/school to honor those who fight for our country, I thought I'd share a fun playlist. Complete with American-themed songs, a little country, and a few other catchy tunes, this will be sure to liven up any Memorial Day BBQ. A "USA" chant is optional.

Photo of Newport, RI found on Tumblr

You Shouldn't Feel Guilty For Traveling

I've had friends say, "I'm excited to visit you when you move to (insert destination here) because then I'll finally have an excuse to go!" While I'm flattered my friends would take a trip to come visit me, I often wonder why my being there is an excuse to go someplace they've always wanted to go. I do understand that having a friend as an "insider" showing you around is an asset, as well as catching up with your friend. But what really irks me about this statement is the fact that people feel like they need an excuse to travel.

In the US, the culture is generally work-work-work 40+ hours/week to save money for retirement, and when you've retired and "officially earned" a vacation, you take it. Even during paid (or unpaid) vacation weeks throughout the year, some people will only take vacation while feeling the need to justify it in some way. With jobs being scarce these days, constantly overworking yourself often seems like the only way to keep a job and move up with a company. While I don't find anything wrong with working hard or ambition to improve (I definitely value those qualities and personally strive to hold them), I do think it's sad that people feel guilty for traveling when they get time off.

If you have the means and the time to travel, then do it! Even if it's just a weekend away or a few days of your allotted vacation time. Usually the biggest thing holding you back is yourself. Traveling (and even the anticipation of traveling) brings happiness and helps relieve stress. Especially if you're going to a foreign country, you learn so much about yourself and the world. Life is short. If you wait until retirement for a trip you want to take now, you may never do it. Go now while you can.

And don't feel guilty.

8 Majestic Time Lapse Videos of the USA

These amazing time lapse videos capture a whimsical sense of a place by compressing hours worth of footage into a short video. From New York to LA, Chicago to San Francisco, here are eight of America's favorite cities shown through majestic time lapses.

1. Portland, OR

1:23 has got to be the coolest shot, ever.

2. San Francisco, CA (and Dubai, UAE)

The clouds in this video are insane.

3. New York City, NY

Manhattan at night.

4. Dallas, TX

The place where everything is bigger and better.

5. Los Angeles, CA

Beautiful city lights.

6. Chicago, IL

A sunrise in the windy city.

7. Seattle, WA

Beyond gorgeous views, plus cool footage from a Sounders game.

8. Washington, DC

Nighttime in the nation's capital.

Must-Dos For Any South Africa Trip

Enjoy this guest post from my friend Aryn who went on a South Africa tour in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Kruger National Park. From spotting elephants on safari to hiking iconic Table Mountain, Aryn recounts her experiences and shares her "musts" for any trip to Africa's most southern country. My very first time outside leaving North America was on a trip to South Africa the summer before my senior year in high school. I’d been to Vancouver, BC up in Canada before but this was my first big trip – and without my family.

I didn’t really know what to expect traveling abroad. I thought there would be a lot of culture shock but there really wasn’t. Instead I was greeted by a country rich with history. I quickly learned that South Africa’s unique diversity was something to be admired (lots and lots of different foods!) and that everyone had a story.

Here are a few of my most memorable experiences from South Africa.

Johannesburg

South Africa 1 037

After a long flight from London Heathrow we landed for our first official day in Johannesburg. Initially, it was like any city that I’d seen on TV (keeping in mind I’d never actually been to New York City either). There were lots of cars and people everywhere. But as we began to drive to our hotel I started to notice some differences. The place we were staying was a four star hotel (not many Marriotts or Holiday Inns) but the drive there from the airport you saw everything close to poverty: displaced migrants from Zimbabwe setting up makeshift homes from scrap metal on swamplands; lots of children just out and about. It felt so weird to just get on a bus and go back to a hotel and remain separated from everyone on the other side of the glass. So maybe that was my culture shock moment.

South Africa 1 073

Apartheid Museum

South Africa 1 015

Within the next couple of days we learned more about South Africa’s suppressive history and visited the Apartheid Museum.

In 1950 racial segregation between white South Africans and nonwhite South Africans (a majority of the population) became legal when the National Party gained control of the government and began to rule with intense white supremacy. The legislation of this was called apartheid.

As we walked into the museum we saw different artifacts from the apartheid. I recall the arches above the doorways to the exhibits labeled as “whites” and “non-whites” – from the start it was clear that this was the theme.

South Africa 1 023

I imagine it’s always hard to really understand the Civil Rights era in America because growing up in the nineties I never knew differently. But because Apartheid in South Africa had only ended in 1994, the memories of oppression were still fresh.

The museum was especially powerful, highlighting the famous protests of young students against the government, the segregation of everyday life, and the violence that took place for almost half a century.

Why it’s a must: The Apartheid was a big piece of South Africa’s history and explains why the country has been so late to develop and the characteristics of its population. For me, visiting the Apartheid Museum was as powerful as visiting the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC.

Kruger National Park

After about four days in Johannesburg, we began moving our way north to Kruger National Park. I think it’s just about everyone’s dream to go on safari in Africa. And it totally was. Because it was Southern Africa’s winter, we lucked out our entire stay there.

South Africa 1 372 - Copy

We arrived to the Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge and I must say it wasn’t anything like I expected. We stayed in cabin tents on the residential grounds of the private reserve area of the national park and there were even wild hogs (so cute!) running about.

Most of our time at Hoyo Hoyo was spent on safari. Our first time we saw a pride of lions feasting on wildebeest and we started every morning with a sunrise safari to not only catch the morning sun – cue the “Circle of Life” – but to spy on giraffes and elephants.

South Africa 1 487

South Africa 1 348

My experience on the safari was nothing short of incredible. There were guides to take us on bush walks, educating us on the different plants and tracking patterns of the wildlife in the park. On one drive we actually got out of our jeep and stalked a pregnant leopard on foot!

Why it’s a must: Come on. It’s an African safari. There is nothing cooler (or more ethical, I might add) than seeing animals in their natural habits. No less seeing animals you only dream about in the movies. While I was there I tried some ethnic foods such as impala and various types of native fruits – food I’d never have anywhere else.

Cape Town

After leaving Hoyo Hoyo we drove back to Johannesburg (a killer 8-hour drive through the South Afrin countryside – at least we got to see sites like God’s window and stand at the top of some beautiful cliffs) to fly out to Cape Town.

Random: I will say right now that the first time I tried any type of curry was on South African Airlines. And it was pretty darn good.

When we arrived in Cape Town, I realized that the city was just as beautiful as I imagined it. Again, the city has so much history but it also laid claim on some devastatingly beautiful landscapes. During our time there we visited Robben Island to see where Nelson Mandela served his nineteen years. But my favorite was the outings we went on outside the city.

South Africa 1 540

Table Mountain

The morning we went to Table Mountain we took a cable car to the top. I mean, you knew when you were looking at it days before from below that it was pretty far up. But when we got to the top you could literally see everything from above, like Robben Island, the beautiful ocean, the city, and other parts of the coast.

It was an awesome feeling up on top of the world – at least that’s what it felt like. During the 2010 World Cup I remember seeing all the media shots of Table Mountain and it brought back a lot of (windy) memories.

Cape Good Hope

South Africa 3 & London 031

One of my other favorite parts of our time in Cape Town was driving up the coastal region to Cape of Good Hope. Cape of Good Hope, while it is commonly mistaken as the southern most tip of Africa, it has always been a point of significance for sailors, mainly because of its beauty as they begin to round the coast. Again, hiking up in this area was absolutely beautiful, especially with panoramic views.

South Africa 3 & London 026

Boulders Beach

How often do you get to see penguins in AFRICA? I didn’t even think that this was a possibility. But then again I didn’t even realize that June was Africa’s winter. So when we arrived at Boulders Beach to see some penguins, I was nothing short of amazed.

South Africa 3 & London 039

Why these were a must: The entire country of South Africa is so different from anything I’ve ever experienced. It was kind of refreshing to be so close to the ocean after spending a whole week inland. The sites are breathtaking and you really see why so many people fall in love with Africa’s coastal cities.

But… What I wish I had done…

If I could go back to South Africa there’s no question in my mind that I would go back on safari and return to Cape Town. But I’d also do the following:

Shark Cage

Great White Shark cage diving – When we were in Cape Town we went on a boat ride to Seal Island. Little did I know that very close to there are the most Great White Shark-infested waters in the world. As naïve high schoolers do, we joked about dangling our cameras over the side of the boat, not realizing that there was the possibility of Great Whites roaming the waters below. Now, as a huge fan of Shark Week (go figure after that story, right?) I think after that experience all I’ve ever wanted to do was go back and get in those waters right next to those sharks. So ever since shark cage diving in South Africa has been at the top of my bucket list.

South African Vineyard

Wine tasting in Cape Town – Though I wasn’t old enough to really appreciate the countryside in South Africa, I’ve become well aware since that they have some pretty awesome vineyards producing some pretty savvy wines.

Kirstenbosch Garden

Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden – At some point in our time in Cape Town we decided pretty early on that the last thing we wanted to do was go see some flowers. So we didn’t. Looking back now, if I went back with friends or loved ones, I should’ve went. As a twenty-something I definitely think I have a bigger appreciation in exotic blooms and finely landscaped gardens.

I don’t know why it always seems so corny to me when I think it but I often return to the thought that I left my heart in Africa. Maybe it was because it was so long ago and high school Aryn had much more trivial issues that those of my 23-year-old self. But it was a truly amazing experience, especially for my first time outside of North America. But there’s so much of the continent that I am so excited to explore.

Photo credits: Aryn Versteegh

Why You Should Visit Croatia ASAP

With over 1,000 islands and mainland stretching on the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is definitely a place you should add to your European bucket list. It's increasingly becoming more popular, so it's best to go now before it gets overrun with tourists. Here are some more reasons of why you should visit Croatia ASAP:

Because it's gorgeous

Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Because it's cheap - $1 = 5.56 kuna

kuna change croatia money

Because there are cool medieval towns, like this one (Trogir)

Split and Trogir, Croatia

Trogir, Croatia 2

Because A Game of Thrones films there

Game of Thrones Filming in Croatia

Because the seafood is authentic and fresh

Eating fish in Croatia

Fish in Croatia

Because the sunsets are breathtaking

Croatian Sunset

Because there are plenty of things to do:

...like white water rafting

vv

or driving along the coast

Driving in Croatia

Because the waterfalls are beyond amazing

Krka Waterfalls

Swan in Croatia Krka

...and you can go swimming near them

Krka waterfalls swimming

Need I say more?

Photos: Ally Archer

How To Not Gain Weight When You Study Abroad

How To Not Gain Weight When You Study Abroad

You've all heard of the notorious "Freshman 15" in college: during freshman year, you stop eating mom and dad's home cooked meals and binge on the unhealthy options in the cafeteria, followed by late night pizza, lots of beer (#college! woo!), and taking a break from the sports you used to do in high school. By Christmas break, you've gained a few pounds and then resolve to hit the gym first thing in the new year.

There's also the notorious weight gain for going abroad - the "Study Abroad 15." (When I went to Florence, we called it the "Florence 15"). Trying every food under the sun, drinking lots of wine...and beer...and tequila shots...and long island iced teas...plus literally not having any time to go to the gym could be a recipe for weight gain.

You don't have to gain weight when you study abroad. Just like there are ways to avoid the "Freshman 15" in college, there are ways to avoid the "Study Abroad 15" as well.

So, want to know how to not gain weight when you study abroad?

Here are some super helpful tips - that don't involve traditional gym workouts - to help you maintain your weight abroad!

how to not gain weight when you study abroad

1. First, think about your current lifestyle and how you're maintaining your figure.

When you were in high school, you might have been involved in some type of sport or physical activity. Also, you probably were eating balanced meals three times a day. When you started college, things changed a bit. You have a more flexible schedule (more time for random snacks) and you might not have been as physically active. Also, no curfews and more freedom can mean more parties and drinking.

Think about how you've maintained your figure in college despite the lifestyle changes of high school: for me, I walked a lot more on average every day around campus. I was on the dance team, so I had practice 3-5 times per week, in addition to my regular workouts.

While I found myself snacking more between classes, I wouldn't overeat if I was full. Therefore, I avoided the Freshman 15.

Apply this mindset to when you're studying abroad, just like when you transitioned from high school to college!

2. Walking everywhere provides plenty of cardio.

When I went abroad, I had a small internal freak-out about not having time to go to the gym. Everyone that did my program before me said there wasn't time to go to the gym, but I swore I would. Here's the thing - I didn't go to the gym!

There simply wasn't enough time, and that was okay. I was walking everywhere, and much more than I did on campus. Also, one of the best views of Florence is at Piazzale Michaelangelo, which is earned by walking up a big hill - great for cardio (and toning up those calves)!

Walking everywhere will help you stay away from the Study Abroad 15.

3. Experience the food of the culture, but try not to overeat.

We stayed in pensioni (like dorms) where the owner would cook us breakfast and lunch every day. The food was all natural and made from scratch. Eating out in Italy in general was more natural and less processed than foods in the US, so that's already a good start.

However, it would be easy to have a giant plate of pasta, plus bread, meat, fruit, and gelato every meal for every day. But when you're at home, you wouldn't normally continue eating if you're already full, right?

Enjoy the pasta and gelato, but try your best to recognize when you're full. Get a take away box and save the rest for later (leftovers are the best!). Since you're studying abroad you'll be living in your city for a while, so you have more time to try different foods.

As far as alcohol goes, red wine, light beers, and clear liquor tend to be lower in calories.

4. If you have spare time and motivation to exercise, do some calisthenics, Pilates, or yoga in your room.

Do you ever randomly get in a mood where you just really want to exercise? Nope, just me? Well, okay. Exercises that don't take up space are great for traveling. I like planks, crunches, leg lifts, squats, and lunges. I also like doing Pilates videos on YouTube (Blogilates is my favorite!).

5. Look into some fun activities you can do abroad that sneak in exercise.

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the scenic nature of a new destination. If the weather is nice, take a trip to the beach and swim or play frisbee. If it's winter, head to the gorgeous Swiss or Slovenian alps to go skiing or snowboarding.

During the week, see if your program offers any intramural sports to sign up for - a fun and social way to sneak in exercise and meet people from other schools.

If you do end up gaining some weight, it's not the end of the world!

Maybe you ended up gaining a few pounds from your study abroad. Instead of dwelling on it, know that you experienced life, and look back on all the great memories you made! The gym (and your "regular life") will be there when you get back to campus.

I hope these tips have been helpful for when you study abroad or go on an extended trip. Don't spend all your free time inside the gym when you can sneak in exercise by using these tips! Your reason for studying abroad is to experience living in a new city and to make new memories. Have fun and enjoy every aspect of the culture.

Photos: We Heart It