Ahhh Peru. I heard it was beautiful, but once you visit you realize it's much more then that. There is so much to see and do in this vibrant country!

We travelled to the area of Cusco, famous for its proximity to Machu Picchu. We started off in Ollantaytambo (Sacred Valley) to acclimatize, visiting the ruins and the Pisac market. Starting off somewhat relaxed really helped us to get use to everything. The scenary was gorgeous, the mood relaxed, the food flavourful and fresh, and the people so friendly! The ruins we visited were extraordinary and the way they were put together was just incredible. A LOT different from what you see on TV. This was a great place to start not only to acclimatize, but to ease in to the trip and relax.

After sometime there, we took the Perurail train to Aqua Calientes, the base of Machu Picchu. The train ride is beautiful and Perurail takes care of their guests very well. Through the trainride, you go along the Urubamba River. Take it all in and enjoy the view. One thing to note, if you are bringing luggage, make sure take train that allows baggage. There is only one per day, otherwise you will have to store your luggage behind.

Aqua Calientes was VERY touristy. A beautiful city with lots of restaurants and bars, but in this gateway town you will find it a lot more expensive then some other Peru destinations. Beware of the strip we call "Harrassment Hill" where you will be constantly bothered to eat and drink at every restaurant, and they are very persistent. Also, negioate the price of your meal before you go in. We were caught off guard by higher bills, and "servico" charges.

Machu Picchu, is absolutely stunning. Words can't even describe how beautiful this place is and pictures don't do it justice. Surrounded by an extraordinary view with rich plant-life and mountains, and the very impressive ruins. It's definitely a place you want to explore for at least a full day. We climbed Wayna Picchu, which although it was a challenging climb, the view on top was more then worth it. Highly recommend it, although keep in mind you will need to be in good physical shape to make the climb.

After spending a couple days in Aqua Calientes, we made our way to Cusco. Cusco is a vibrant city with lots of life and energy. We loved it here! So much to see and do, great nightlife, tons of ruins to explore and shopping for those who want to take home a few souveiners. We were fortunate enough to be there for a parade, where we got to see groups dancing in colourful costumes and throwing confetti around!

Our Peru experience had to be one of the most interesting trips I have been on, with so much to see and do! I'm in the midst or writing more details about some of the cities we went to, places we stayed and challenges we had so please check back soon :-)

Also, if you're heading to Peru anytime soon and want some tips or info, please check back here soon as I will be writing lots more about this trip, or until then please drop me a line and I am more then happy to share any info.

Until then, thanks for reading and happy travelling!

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It's been a busy 4 months and time has just flew by!

While everyone was making New Years resolutions this year, I decided "hey, this is the year to travel a bit", and that I did. In the last 4 months, I have been to:

- Jamaica
- New York
- London, England
- Peru

Sure, thats quite a bit, but the experiences I have had along the way have been amazing. Along with great company and my handy travel journal, got tons of stuff to blog about and experiences to share, places people should definitely check out, what to avoid and my impression of the food and hotels along the way

And while my bank account isn't quite thanking me at the moment, I sure didn't break the bank either. Because believe it or not, its still possible to travel comfortably and have a bit of money left in your pocket.

A couple tips to saving money travelling?
- Research before you go
- Read the fine print...whats included? and take advantage of it.
- Ask, and ye shall sometimes receive..no harm in asking for a discount or a bonus inclusion.
- Bring a travel buddy
- Buy what you need, and a little of what you want
- Travel deals are your friend (especially web deals, and social buying sites)

Anyways, thats all for now, please check back for more about these great places and some more tips I hope help you in your future adventures.

Thanks for reading and happy travels!

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Today's Blog Post is dedicated to my dog Aura, who passed away from a Brain Disease today at the young age of 3 years old. Those who have pets can understand the impact on ones life a pet makes. They become part of your family, your best friend.

From the moment I got Aura, she held a special place in my heart. Originally I had got her for my dad to help him deal with the loss of my grandmother. I drove over 2 hours each way to get Aura from a small town north of Kitchener. As soon as I put her in my arms, I knew I found my best friend. I brought her home and my dad fell in love with her as well. We decided to call her Aura because of her good "Aura" about her and energy. Unfortunately my dad passed away 2 weeks later. So here it was, just Aura and I...all we had was each other.


Through all the rough times she was always there for me, and I for her. Times when I would come home upset, or crying she would always comfort me and help me get through it. We also shared so many good memories, going to Woofstock, play dates with other dogs, movie nights, cottage getaways together, car rides, play times... anywhere I could bring her I would. When she started to get sick end of September, it just broke my heart. I slowly saw this wonderful spirit deteriorate but despite it all still kept her good spirit and had a smile on her face. Here I was in the position that she needed me and knew without a doubt I would do everything I could to help her, through MRIs, extensive testing and everything I wanted to be there for her just like she was there for me. And while I sat at home crying about how much she had to go through and how heartbreaking it was, she still managed to get up and try to lick the tears off my face.

When she had a seizure at home a couple days ago was horrible seeing her go through that especially since she was doing so well. I rushed her to the hospital where she could get the care she needed. One of the last memories I have with her was seeing her in emergency on IV. Once she saw me she managed to get up enough strength to lift her head and give me a kiss on the face, I gave her a kiss too and she passed out again. I will always remember that moment with her forever. Then comes today... when I was told she could come home this morning but needed a bit of TLC I was so happy. Couldn’t wait to bring her home. However just when I got to the hospital she had another seizure, one she was unable to recover from. Unfortunately the brain disease she was suffering from had taken its toll. So many emotions surround me as I think about the wonderful dog and friend she will always be to me and hoping that wherever she is in heaven that shes no longer in pain, running around playing frisbee and enjoying herself, knowing I will always be thinking of her and how she touched my life.

I also want to send a special thank you to those that have supported both Aura and I through this illness: Toronto Emergency Veterinary Hospital, Dr. Huska, Dr. Cutler, My work and all our friends (both 2 legged and 4 legged). Your support and prayers got us though this very difficult time.

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Port Douglas is a beautiful place. A place one would absolutely fall in love with. Beaches, boutiques, great people. What more can you ask for?

When my friend and I visited, it took a couple hours to get our surroundings in check. Then again weren't in any rush. The beach and the scenery was absolutely beautiful. White sands, beautiful hills... was surreal. 

Because we were there in January (stinger season) they had signs saying to watch for stingers and crocodiles...what?? Ok this wasn't in the tour guide. caution signs everywhere and even vinegar stations just in case. With that in mind, decided to obey by the rules on this one.

Our accomodations were a short walk to the beach and about a 10 min walk to the strip. One thing we found is that most of the accomodations were close to everything and fairly nice. There were also a lot of apartments to rent and groceries in town which was great for saving money on eating out all the time. 

If you like boutique shopping, you would love the shops. Tons of great places to pick up clothes or souvenirs to bring home, and not too expensive. 

There are also a few bars and restaurants worth checking out, they close a bit early during the week but should still give you time to go out and grab a bite and a drink.

On Saturdays there was a bar having toad races. If someone who of mentioned it to me I would of thought they were joking, but we went to check it out and it was actually quite entertaining and after a few drinks everyone gets right into it. 

Sunday's they have a market, would highly recommend checking it out. Was huge! And tons of cool stuff from local vendors. The only thing I would caution is if you a travelling from another country make sure what you get you can bring back. There's tos of plantlife and food but some of that stuff you can't bring home.

Had a wonderful time in Port Douglas and if you are in Queensland, Australia you should definitely add it to the itinary.  

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So I have to admit, this was my first Caribana...ever! and please excuse me for saying Caribana as opposed to Scotia Bank Caribbean Carnival as that is all I have ever known.

My friend asked me to play Mas this year. For those who don't know, thats where you dance for a Mas Camp in the actual parade and get the chance to dress up in these elaborate, beautiful costumes. We were part of the Louis Saldenah Mas Camp... What an AMAZING time!!

I spent a few days before picking up my costume, getting all the accessories... the anticipation for the big day. Once I got there, the rush was unbelievable! Thousands of people dressed up, great vibe. Although it was about 11am by the time we got started, I definitely needed a drink! I probably wasn't the only one. I wasn't use to being dressed up (or underdressed) in front of so many people, but once I got out there my insecurities just disappeared.

The music, the vibe, the people...the craziness when we were at the stage and that nice feeling when your dancing near the trucks playing soca music and your body just wines. Hard to explain your first Caribana mas experience without the words overwhelming and awesome.

Once it was all over and I got home... after 8 hours in the sun dancing (and 36C plus heat) I was tired, sore but ready to do it again next year. Definitely a 9/10 day (1 point off for forgetting to put sunscreen on part of my back and getting burnt...ouch!)

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It's been awhile since I last blogged...but i'm still here! Life has a way of keeping one busy sometimes. It's been a super busy summer and I have LOTS to write about as I sit down and reflect on everything that's been going on here in Toronto...and abroad. Lots of reviews, stories, opinions, the works. However even though I can say that I have done a lot in the last couple months, theres something about August that makes me feel that summer is wrapping up soon... I don't know if its the thought that the next long weekend will be Labour Day or that Dollarama now has Halloween decorations. Either way, only a month left until september and it's time to get "out and about" and enjoy. Have fun everyone!

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The winter blues...its February, it's cold, dark by 6pm and you are in a down mood. If that sounds like you, you're not alone. Lately I have been feeling unmotivated and been trying to think of ways to get out of it. So came up with a couple ways to keep busy and turnaround my mood so as not to fall victim to the winter blues.

Here are a few thought starters, but would like this to be an expanding list so please add your thoughts and ideas on how you try and cope with the winter blues.

1. Expand your mind
Take a course or class in something that interests you. Having a regular commitment keeps you out and about and off the couch.

2. Take a vacation, mini or major.
Whether its a weekend in Niagara or a week in Cuba, get away for a change of scenary.

3. Get up and do something...around the house!
If you have been meaning to paint that room or check something off your reno to do list, get it done. nothing like the sense of accomplishment from completing tasks.

4. Have some friends over.
Have a game or movie at your house. serve some appetizers or do a potluck.

How do you get through the winter? Share your ideas and lets get through this winter in a good mood.

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