IDEA157: Hang Out Where the Locals Do...and Party With A Local!

I had a chance to catch up with Dan Fennessy, Co-Founder of Party With A Local, an app that connects locals and travelers for a night no one is likely to forget. We here at "Live Like You're Traveling" are absolutely obsessed with tools that help us be in the know when we travel and when we're back in own cities, to continue discovering with fresh eyes; and Dan's app let's us do BOTH!

To get all the info I met with THE Amsterdam "local", Dan himself. Actually Dan is not Dutch at all, he is from Australia and has been living in Amsterdam for over 7 years. Having experienced this city as a newbie and then staying long enough to become a local, Dan knows first hand what it takes to acquire the invisible keys to a city... and he has decided to reveal that secret to the world. 

We met at Cafe' Cook, a gem of a place hidden from sight just behind a bustling, colorful Jan Evertsenstraat, and a 2 minute walk from Mercatorplein. This place is a tram ride from the center and to be honest I myself did not know about it. It's a true neighborhood joint where you won't only find any tourists but you are probably not going to find too many people from outside of the neighborhood. ALERT!!! This is the holy grail of an eatery for any traveler who wants to feel like a local. It's a really cozy place serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and Dan vouches for the food. Cafe Cook uses local produce serving a variety of updated Dutch dishes, and the prices are sharp. They have a pretty nicely stocked bar and a number of Belgian and Amsterdam local beers.  

So back to the business at hand, Party With A Local App lets travelers join locals for an evening of fun, hanging out at a local pub, clubbing, having a drink at the little known lounge and perhaps finishing of a wild night at a super secret street food joint. Of course the benefit is very clear for the traveler, but what's in it for the local?

As travelers we know that our best travel experiences were definitely those that involved meeting locals because that is the only way to really get a feel for the culture and the vibe of a place.

After having one of those great experience as travelers, in a way we are compelled to pay it forward and show another traveler a great time. There are "selfish" reasons too, and that is to make friends all over the world, getting to enjoy your own city with a renewed energy and inspiration, and of course learning about a different culture without leaving your hometown. Think about the best times you've had while traveling? How many times have you recounted stories to anyone who would listen? Well now you will be in the story that your new friends will be telling everyone back home.  

How does it work? Very simple. You sign in with your Facebook account, and to protect everyone's privacy, the app only shows your first name. Set your status to what kind of partying you're in the mood for. You can first exchange chats to organize what you'll do, or simply suggest a public meeting place and let the good times roll!

What kind of "partying" you may be thinking? It could be as innocent as coffee, or the kind of night that ends in wolfing down a burger at a secret all night spot eatery as the dawn breaks, it depends on you (and your stamina). Actually, it doesn't even have to be a party, you can get a bite to eat, do a cultural activity, anything really. Dan tells us a story one of the users shared about traveling to Singapore and getting invited to an afternoon volleyball game and a neighborhood barbecue. Fun! (And we have photographic evidence via Instagram.)

There are many stories like this of the perfect travel experiences, but what this app really does is deeper then just "partying." There are tons of examples of true friendships forming and new friends visiting each other or even planning new travels together! It's really about connecting like minded people all over the globe who are curious about the world and passionate about discovering new cultures. 

I asked Dan if he had any crazy stories to tell, because he himself is a regular 'local' hosting travelers right here in Amsterdam. He thought about it for a moment then laughed, then shook his head, then laughed again... and then told me a story... BUT! Unfortunately I am not at liberty to disclose it. Though it was fun to see Dan say: "oh... wait DON'T put that on the blog!" Actually I think they made a movie about it... I think it's called "The Hangover?" Hey, you're just going to have to sign up and make your very own Party With A Local experiences! 

So who holds the 'invisible key' to unlocking the secrets of a city? The people that live there. Talk to them, meet them, make friends and don't forget to invite them to come visit you. 

- Thanks Dan for being a super local and helping us live like we're traveling!

DAN RECOMMENDS IN AMSTERDAM:
Neighborhood eats:  Cafe' Cook - James Cookstraat 2, 1056 RZ Amsterdam 
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Wake-up to a New View Right in Your Own City!

The travel industry often times ignores their third and most readily available client segment...THE LOCALS! 

Hotels dread the off season and scramble to fill rooms. The bad economy and rising fuel prices that drive up air ticket costs all add to the nightmares of hoteliers. The out of country, and out of city travelers may very well get grounded by all kinds of factors but so what!?  The locals are a third client segment that does not need to get on the plane to get to you! They may be stuck in their own cities and in dire need to feel like they're traveling. Save them!!! Give your own city dwellers an idea that they can have a mini-getaway right in town. Let them feel miles away, pampered and spoiled right in their very own city, minus the expensive air ticket to say... Bali. 

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For the third year, Amsterdam is hosting a Hotel Night to inspire its own residents to feel like they're traveling and see their own city with a fresh eyes as they wake up to different views of the lovely Amsterdam all around 40+ participating hotels. On Saturday, January 17th, Amsterdamers can try out these hotels with a special discounted rate and participate in various events that the hotels maybe organizing. Perhaps a spa experience? Special dinner? Or an activity aimed at rediscovering your city...   

Well done Amsterdam! Live like you're traveling movement is on the rise! 

Do you have a hotel night in your city? You can always sign-up for newsletters of your target hotels, or even better, follow them on Instagram, to know when deals come up. 
 

• • •    LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Sweet dreams are closer then you think! 

Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling  

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Airbnb Tree Houses : Plan an Escape that Taps Your Inner Child

There's something about being in a treehouse that automatically sets the stage for adventure. Maybe it's because you're up in the treetops with a bird's eye view, completely tucked away from it all. You can't help but feel totally separated from your normal life and you truly are nestled in the beauty and awe of nature. Surrounded by a symphony of outdoor sounds, you belong to the woods, beach or jungle, yet there are the creature comforts to keep you safe and cozy. Do you remember the last time you were in a treehouse? What did you feel?! I've got a bit of a softspot being that we got married in a treehouse. Let's reminisce for a quick second...

Ahh our ceremony was held completely nestled in the trees. There's just something about being completely off the ground. Ok sorry...I'm back. – Today, we go tree-hopping for some inspiration for your own escape! All treehouses can be booked via airbnb.com.

• • •
Rainforest Treehouse, Cooper, Costa Rica
This hideaway puts you in the middle of rainforest-creature-watching and hotsprings dipping.

• • •
Artsy & Rustic 1927 Tree House, Los Angeles, California
The perfect personal retreat, suitable for tea, reading and a whole lot of pampery me-time.

• • •
The Shitake, Cave Junction, Oregon
Need to write that book you've been meaning to get to? This treehouse for one has your name written all over it.

• • •
Tree Sparrow House, Cornwall, UK
Wake up with your hunny to a sunrise over the orchards and breakfast in bed...

• • •
Treehouse at Kilauea Volcano, Volcano Hawaii
Don't even get me started on outdoor showers... what an indulgent treehouse amenity! :)

I hope you're feeling fully inspired to seek a playful refuge. You can't help but have fun in a such a unique setting!


• • •  INSPIRE YOUR GLOBAL NEIGHBORS  • • •

Show us how you get Zzz's in the trees and
TAG: #LiveLikeYoureTraveling on Instagram, Facebook
or leave a comment below with a photo or link. 

Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling  

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Blue Apron : Travel the World without Leaving Your Kitchen

Some of you may already be following along on instagram and seeing how I've been experimenting in the kitchen and having #culinaryfirsts over and over...and OVER! Every week I cook with exotic ingredients and spices like watermelon radish, forbidden rice and korean gochugaru...but how am I pulling this off without a lot of time in the market and looking up recipes? At the beginning of the year, I had a case of analysis paralysis from all the pinterest boards of carefully categorized recipes, but I got over it and I'm going to tell you all about my little secret to how. 

I really take pride in knowing that I'm selecting good ingredients, but I also want to know that I'm growing as a cook. I want to continue adding to my repertoire and tackling new culinary feats in the kitchen. But of course, who has the time? I first stumbled upon Blue Apron (a weekly meal subscription service) via a friend of mine who gave me one of her free trials (3 meals for 2 people, worth $60). It could seriously be one of the best free trials out there. So I signed up, selected my dietary preferences and my meals were to be sent to us by the end of the week. You can change delivery settings within a week's notice.  

How it Works

• • •
Get Food Packaged Exactly by the Amount Necessary
All the veggies and select cuts of meats come prepackaged, as well as all the seasonings,
cheeses, and other ingredients to make sauces and dressings from scratch.

• • •
Prepare Food Using Step-by-Step Visual Recipe Cards
You're given a dose of the cultural influence to the dish, with all of the ingredients needed plus  a visual display on the front of the card. On the back, a visual step-by-step that acts like a mini cooking course at home. What's great about it is that hubby (who's less cooking inclined) and I can both jump right in and divvy up our efforts, where as traditional recipes tend to require an extra step of organizing and strategizing. Even if you don't subscribe to the service, you can access all of their visual step-by-step recipes via their online cookbook.

Some of My Favorites

Mexican Chicken Mole with Cilantro Rice 
• • •
Wasn't much of a fan of mole until this dish. The rich decadent chocolate and peppers mixed against the lime cilantro accents, collaborated well together. I think we ate in silence, (which is the marker of a truly delicious meal for us).

Chicken Shawarma with Tzatziki, Hummus & Beet Salad
• • •
All I need to say is "Tzatziki spilleth over." A zesty sauce made from scratch
and beet salad. A surprise rush of flavors in such a simple dish with vibrant colors.

Beef Ramen Noodle Soup with Choy Sum & Enoki Mushrooms
• • •
I was a Hoisin virgin until this meal. Quality steak and enoki mushrooms.
Handmade noodles? The noodle lover in me was swooning.
{ ...awww shucks, thanks for including this photo in your Autumn Cookbook }

Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Forbidden Rice
• • •
I was excited to use watermelon radish for the first time, (so delicious to the eyes) and we discovered forbidden rice (which is a rich source of anti-oxidants)! What a great replacement for white rice. It's hearty and has an earthy flavor on its own.

Korean Beef Chapchae with Sweet Potato Vermicelli 
• • •
FYI I love spicy food! I loved making yet another culinary first, with the Korean chili spice, gochugaru. The sweet potato vermicelli noodles were a unique element that soaked in all the flavors. Added bonus:  being that I am more conscious about the amount and type of carbs I eat, I liked that it was a great substitute for rice noodles.

 Dukkah-Dusted Tilapia with Eggplant Sofrito and Peppers over Quinoa
• • •
Having never tried dukkah-anything, I was excited to experience new flavors and fish with extra texture. The blistered peppers were a surprisingly delightful way to prepare them whole and we're always down for Quinoa.

 Salmon Burgers with Corn-on-the-cob & Basil Butter 
• • •
Hello juicy-ness! My goodness this was the best burger of the year. The lemon aioli drizzle on the made-from-scratch salmon made for a summery refreshing pairing. 

Savor the World & Learn

1 - Try the world. Hop cultures from meal to meal. Sample before you decide to invest in a full size carton of miso, or bottle of hoisin sauce. Cook with exotic ingredients like sweet potato vermicelli, kumquats or pattypan squash for the first time.

2 - Less anxiety in trying to figure out what to make. We set our preferences, for the dish types (vegetarian, pescatarian, chicken, beef etc.) and the majority of the time it's something we want to eat. I would love it if eventually they could include more specific dietary requirements like dairy free, gluten free etc. 

3 - Cooking class at home  Learn a new cooking technique in every meal. The visual recipe cards give it a "demo" feel. 

4 - Feel accomplished. There's something about the combination of trying new techniques and unique ingredients and doing it on your own from scratch that add up to a sense of accomplishment. I love feeling like I'm learning and exploring right in my kitchen.

Have you tried Blue Apron, or a service like it?...what has your experience been like? 
 

• • •    LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Let someone else take the driver's seat
so you can enjoy the ride. 

Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling  

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Take Us To Lunch: Porto Gazing with Vanessa & Joana of Dua2Por3, Portugal

Once in a while something happens that reassures you that you're on the right path in life. When it happens it's a really happy day, a day you draw inspiration from anytime doubts decide to come lurking.  I had that kind of a day when I arrived in Porto for a lunch date with two very talented women Vanessa and Joana of dua2por3, a creative design firm. Their company does illustration, pattern design, graphic design, info-graphics and packaging design. I first discovered their work by coming across a collection of notebooks they've designed depicting scenes of everyday life and culture of Portugal. Each notebook design is a visual story giving you clues about the heart and soul of that region, transforming the blank pages within into an invitation to visit and write down your own discoveries... I knew I wanted to know more about them, their work and of course why they want to share their country, Portugal, with the world.  

I traveled to Porto with three of my friends and a long weekend of "ladies at leisure" awaited us. My very first activity in Porto was to meet with Joana and Vanessa. Only in retro spec can my friends and I appreciate just how fortuitous that would be for our Porto experience. 

My partners in crime. 

• • •

Vanessa suggested we meet in front of Lello Bookstore,
which just so happens to be one of the most beautiful bookstores in the entire world! 

Vanessa came to meet me and my friend M, who joined me for my "work stuff."  She explained that Joana would be joining us later because she was showcasing her line of minimalist jewelry at a local artisan market and before that if we'd like we could take a walk and see some interesting parts of town. "Of course we would!"...screamed M and I a bit too aggressively. We quickly learned that Vanessa, besides owning a design company, is also an architect. She's a graduate of University of Porto, one of the oldest and prestigious Universities in Europe.

• • •

Which would explain how she knew so much about the beautiful tile clad facades
that made the city look cheerful even on this uncharacteristically dreary day.  

As we walked along the pedestrian street Rua de Cedofeita, Vanessa told us how she met her business partner Joana, at a design course. Joana herself comes from a Business and Marketing background but like Vanessa, she's passionate about all things design and out of this shared desire to practice more creativity, the two ladies joined forces in a venture merging their different skill sets to enrich their design practice.  

• • • 

Shortly after we turned to seemingly nondescript, rather narrow street called Rua de Miguel Bombarda. At first glance it didn't seem to hold much interest and we wondered why Vanessa decided to lead us away from the center towards this area. Then of course she started pointing out delectable little gems such as art galleries featuring local artists, delicious tiny boutiques with locally made goods, a hotel without a sign with a secret garden in the back that hosts performances. This magical street revealed to house many doors to hidden wonders. 

As Vanessa continued to tell us about these places we began to understand the spirit of Porto. A city full of inspiration, enthusiasm, creativity and locals who truly love and enjoy their city. It was a refreshing new view. Opposite to the grim news reports of economic decline of southern Europe and how seemingly the only thing to do is abandon ship leaving the region in search of work elsewhere. Porto was revealing itself as a city full of entrepreneurial energetic locals who are not focusing on negative predictions but instead are busy creating, discovering and building. No wonder the Univeristy of Porto's own incubator program UPTEC is a first place winner of Regio Stars award last year for smart growth. 

• • •
Just when we thought we've seen it all, we ducked inside a door into a spacious ultra modern space, a stark contrast to the rustic exteriors outside. Vanessa announced that this was Centro Comercial Bombarda, a shopping "mini-mall" with innovative local and international brands, few galleries, and funky cafes and restaurant or two. There is also a courtyard where you can sit and enjoy a long Portuguese lunch.   

• • • 
But we were not yet sitting down for lunch, we now headed to the market to meet up with Joana. In a modern courtyard at the end of Rua das Flores was a little oasis where artists and creators displayed their treasures. There were edible goods, decor, accessories, organic personal care products, clothes and more. Shopping there you could literally stock the entire house and wardrobe! 

Joana and Vanessa OF dua2por3 at Chocolateria das Flores

Joana turned out to also be just as friendly and sunny as Vanessa. Finally, now that I had the two ladies together I asked the question I've been wanting to ask them ever since coming across their Portugal inspired notebooks. Why? Why Portugal and why Porto? The girls glanced at each other before breaking into a chuckle. "Why? Well... because it's so NICE!" They elaborated by telling a story of how the idea was conceived. Upon finishing their course they won top spots in a design competition. To celebrate they went down to the waterside to enjoy some coffee and cake. It was sunny day, the view marvelous, coffee delicious as always sipped from a porcelain cup... and the idea stuck. Porto had something special! Everyone should come and experience it. It isn't about the historical monuments, or the UNESCO protected Ribeira neighborhood. But simply because of this intangible feeling of well being one gets from the simple act of sitting and drinking coffee overlooking the Duoro river... because it's so nice! 

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{ Wanderlust Notebooks }

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Thank you ladies for not only sharing Porto and Portugal with all of us through your inspired notebooks, but also for being true global neighbors and making me and my friends' weekend in Porto so much more meaningful!! 
 

JOANA AND VANESSA'S FAVORITES FOR PORTO:

Shop: Local creative brands along Rua Miguel Bombarda (See O Porto Cool photo reportage) 

Lunch Spot: Rota Do Cha' for an Indian/Japanese inspired lunch of Portuguese proportions. Sit in the wonderfully zen garden weather allowing. On your way out do pick up some delicious tea at their downstairs boutique. 

Afternoon pick me-up: Chocolateria das Flores for a real Parisian hot chocolate, yes the kind that tastes like a melted chocolate bar in a cup. Also try their artisanal bon bons... trust me. 

And there are more... The ladies surprised me with a whole list of places to eat, needless to say we dined like queens! Our culinary discovery of Porto however will be a post of its own!

• • •    LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

It's good to fall in love with new places, 
especially if they inspire you to fall in love with your own town. 

Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

Photo Credits: Lello Bookstore via Visitporto.travel, Gallery Hostel  via Hostel.com, Rua de Cedofeita via Housing Just Landed, Centro Comercial Bombarda Courtyard via Hioporto.com, Art in Centro Comercial Bombarda via Valencia Out.

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IDEA152: Mix Culture & Romance–A Recipe for First Timers in Rome

To celebrate my birthday Vito and I booked a trip to the one and only, eternal city of Rome. I have been to Rome a few times having studied in Italy, but it was going to be Vito's first time there. Quite a responsibility to introduce this magical city to someone and still have plenty of time to simply luxuriate in piazzas and people watch which is MY favorite thing to do. Oh and I must mention that we would only have two full days there as this was to be our maiden voyage outside of the country sans kids.  

Clearly a strategic master plan would be needed in this race against the clock to discover all "must see" mysteries of Rome and still experience the dolce far niente (it's sweet to do nothing) lifestyle. Good thing I'm an expert in planned romance! 

• • •

1st Ingredient - A plush place to stay

The first ingredient in the recipe for a romantic getaway in Rome is plush accommodations. Sure you don't plan on staying inside much when you only have 2 days to see all of Rome but nothing will help to set a romantic tone better then waking up in a swanky private apartment with a sexy view of the city.

My go-to secret address is: Romeloft.com 

2nd Ingredient - A quintessential Roman breakfast 

There is no need to scour books and blogs to find out the best place to have breakfast in Rome because breakfast magic happens right in your "local" bar just down the stairs from wherever it is you're staying. Do breakfast like the locals meaning a cappuccino or a latte macchiato with a croissant (go ahead and make it a chocolate one!) while standing up at the bar counter. You must first confidently stroll straight to the register and pay receiving a little ticket which you then give to the bar tender along with your order. You stand at the marble counter with everyone else as you eat your breakfast. (Don't worry, you'll have plenty of time to sit later when its aperitif time. And just fyi, it costs extra to sit down at a table.) 

3rd Ingredient - A strategic plan of action

We had just two full days to give Vito a complete Rome 101 overview as well as satisfy my desire for the relaxed dolce vita experience so knowing when and where to go was of the essence. My tool of choice - Jauntful.  It's incredibly easy to use, you just click and add the sites, and they are magically placed on the map. You can then email yourself a nice printable PDF. 

For day one we packed in all the historical sites in the morning starting at the Colosseum and working our way north. Slower activities are planned for after lunch such as the Spanish Steps and walk along a shopping street Via Corso. Absolutely build in time to relax before dinner, it breaks up the day nicely and serves to make sure you're fresh to enjoy a late dinner (8.30pm is the normal dinnertime) and some few glasses of wine... 

For day two our first stop was the Vatican. (NOTE: Wednesdays and of course Sundays are days to have audience with the Pope, unless you specifically want to hear the service I suggest going on other days of the week when its a lot less crowded.) After that we headed to Trastevere for the rest of the day. 

4th Ingredient: The WOW moment.

Every trip has to have one. The waw moment is that magical moment when you stand back and really acknowledge what an amazing time you're having. Sure you can't exactly plan for it, but you can certainly create a favorable atmosphere. The easiest way to put yourself in the mood to be amazed are view points, or "inspiration points" if you will. In Rome there are obviously plenty of those but the one I recommend is where you are on the other side of the Tiber river and can view Rome in all it's 360 degree glory. And this place is: Gianicolo or Janiculum Hill. Take a taxi up the hill to the gorgeous Aqua Paola Fountain and then walk up the rest of the way to the Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi on the very top. Ponder your life in general and how fantastic it is to be in Rome in particular... 

5th Ingredient - Get lost artfully. 

Now, there is lots of advice out there abdout getting lost in a new city and surprising yourself with what you discover. That's all nice for someone with unlimited amount of time. But like I said, Vito and I had 48 hours only, so getting lost had to be done in a productive, structured way. So! On the second day after a busy morning at the Vatican museums it was time for a few hours of relaxation. One neighborhood I really wanted to explore was Trastevere and after our WAW moment at the Gianicolo, armed with just a general direction of where we needed to head we made our way down the hill and down the stone staircase into the depth of narrow cobblestone streets. The only destination in mind being a picturesque place for an afternoon espresso... We discovered adorable boutiques, pretty hidden churches, tiny piazzas with fountains, every turn tempting us as we happily gave in.
 

Here is my "expert" summary of how to get lost artfully:

1 - Pick a location with many different things to see in a defined area.

2 -Know the outer boundaries of the area that will signal that you've wandered too far.

3 - Have an experience in mind and a plan "B" ready in case getting lost is not happening as artfully as you envisioned.

I had a map and an X on it for a place to have our picturesque espresso. What do you know, wandering about eventually brought us to that very piazza though we realized it only after we got up from our magic espressos walking a few steps further to walk right by the cafe "X" on my map. 

Get the 2 day itinerary for --> Mixing Culture and Romance in Rome  

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• • •    LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Don't wait for 'wow' moments to happen.
Create them. 

Love it? Share it! - We are dedicated to sharing stories that spark ideas and are meaningful to you. The best way to let us know is to post a comment, like below or pin on Pinterest! ~ For More ways to Live Like You're Traveling, follow us on Feedly, Bloglovin, Pinterest, or Facebook. 

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IDEA148: Travel Like a Local & Swap Homes with a Global Neighbor

We recently wrote about vacation rental Kid & Coe homes with "fully stocked" kids rooms, and how it's really important to feel relaxed as a family when you travel. We now would like to introduce house swapping! A truly "my casa is your casa" way of travel. 

When our second son was born, it sort of struck us that in a few years when both kids are over 2 years old we will be paying for FOUR people every time we fly! Hmm... we pondered that for a minute or 60. Right, so there goes 3K out the window before we even REACH our destination. Then there is accommodation for 2+2, food and entertainment. Let's just say, I'm doing breathing exercises right now to ward off a panic attack. Enter: house swapping. You exchange homes (and possibly cars) for your vacation with someone else. Much more economical, not to mention being able to stay in a fully stocked functional home. 

Having someone you don't know stay in your house is a scary concept at first, but think about it, the other person is probably just as nervous as you are to leave all THEIR stuff. In a way, it is comforting that mutual trust is required. Imagine switching houses with friends? Or how about good friends of your friends? Less scary right? Well, the companies we found make house swapping a bit more warm and familiar for us with their concierge services. They all have a yearly membership fee, and with some for an additional fee they can actually help to match you with another swapper.      

 • • •

1 - HomeExchange.com $135/year (95.40 Euro)
This company was featured in the movie "The Holiday" and has been around since 1992. They have a huge variety of destinations and homes. A customer service rep comes on to chat with you as soon as you get on the site so it makes it friendly and easy to get started.    

 • • •

2 - Intervac.com 
These guys have been around since 1953! Year membership costs $110 (79Euro) and includes personal assistance from a local representative. Intervac has representatives in many countries that I imagine you can bug with all kinds of questions and hand-holding requests. They also have options for discounted rentals if someone is making their second home available.  

 • • •

3 - lovehomeswap.com 
The cost of membership is $200/year (144 Euro), and premium concierge service will run you about $360/year (264 Euro). It includes many extras like: consultation and matching, personal key exchange, flight and restaurant bookings, airport lounge entrance, and city guides. Yes, it's expensive but I personally believe that this price will encourage only those very serious about doing an exchange to participate. 

 • • •

4 - knok.com (top image)
Knok is a new house swapping site focusing on families. It has a feel of being in a club. With a price tag of around 500 Euro/year for a "Weekend tripper" option and a 1,300 Euro/year for a "Vacation tripper" option, it's indeed an expensive club. What's different about this is when you sign up and pay your fee you can immediately book either a 4 day weekend or an 8 day vacation. You "unlock" more days if you make your home available for stays when you're not there, thus making house swapping a bit more flexible since you don't necessary have to wait to match up with a family that wants to go on holiday exactly when you do. Also an upfront fee like these will probably ensure you're dealing with other families that are very serious about this form or travel. Another interesting feature is a user sourced guide of kid friendly places and things to do, and it is free. 

 • • •

5 - behomm.com 
Behomm is a special exchange place for creative people. These are homes where people, how shall I delicately put this, with heightened design sensibilities, like art directors, photographers, artists, designers, architects would feel right at home. I know this is exactly the kind of home exchange our very own, creative director, Mu-Hsien would enjoy! Her home is indeed Architecture Digest worthy.  

This isn't for everyone, you have to be a person who really feels comfortable trusting your own instinct and ability to assess another person without having met them. I've hired people over skype and they've turned out to be great choices so I do feel like I could be comfortable in this situation. I think if you can organize this experience to make yourself feel confident, imagine the benefits! You get to live in a REAL, actual house of someone in the country you're visiting! In a real neighborhood where other "normal" people live. This is the ultimate, "live like a local experience." I imagine it's also a chance to potentially make interesting new friends.   

I'm inspired! Hey, perhaps the next generation of this travel experience is to swap not only your house and car but your friends too! Come stay at my home and my friends will take you out!

{ To get more of a feel for what house swapping entails take a look at Magan's of Mapping Magan, interview with someone who has been house swapping for 6 years now. }

• • •   LESSONS LEARNED #57   • • •

Love it? Share it! - We are dedicated to sharing stories that spark ideas and are meaningful to you. The best way to let us know is by posting a comment, like below or pin it on Pinterest! ~ For More ways Live Like You're Traveling follow us on Feedly, Bloglovin, Pinterest, or Facebook. 

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IDEA 142: Contemplate Life in Patagonia, Argentina

Love, marriage... then perhaps kids?

When did you realize for the first time that you wanted kids?  
Was it a specific moment or a slower kind of realization? 

Here is how the brilliant idea struck me. 

It took a trip to the end of the world* for me to have the moment. I remember it exactly, especially because it crept up on me so unexpectedly. It happened on a platform overlooking the dramatic Perito Moreno glacier in Patagonia, Argentina.  Never have I been the kind of person who visualized being a mom and holding chubby babies in my arms. In fact I was always squeamish if friends offered for me to hold their baby.  Like, “NO! You do realize I can drop that thing right!??” I can only shake my head now. 

Then I met Vito and Vito said he wanted kids. The more we talked about it the more I tried to get used to the idea. I played a game called, “Would this be possible with a kid?” I asked this question whenever I was having fun. Reluctantly I had to admit that many of the times the answer would be yes. Still I wondered, is it right for me to have kids when I've never experienced that "warm and fuzzy" feeling of wanting to be a mom? What if that feeling never came? And worse, what if the feeling came when it was too late to even have kids!?

So there we were, enjoying the magnificent scenery of the glacier. We stayed by the rail captivated for close to an hour. If you've ever seen a glacier then you know how hypnotic it is to just watch how every few minutes a little chunk (the size of a 5 story building) cracks off and slides into the water below almost as in slow motion. Mesmerized we stood thinking about how lucky we were to be on this amazing adventure seeing and experiencing things we never have before. I felt completely fulfilled and happy. I had my man with me, and we had Perito Moreno before us. Just then, a family: mom, dad, and four little boys arrived on the platform. There was immediate commotion as the rambunctious boys were more interested in chasing and pushing each other (dangerously close to the railing) than admiring the glacier. Finally the parents, ending up each with two boys practically hanging off of them like monkeys, stood leaning into each other to admire the scenery. And that’s when it hit me. “The feeling.” Except it was not warm and fuzzy. It was sharp, urgent and uncomfortable. It was jealousy. That couple had Perito Moreno AND four boys. We only had Perito Moreno and no boys! Zero! Not even one boy! What's more, they even had the audacity to look like they were enjoying the glacier experience and bonding as a family at the same time. The nerve on them! 

I watched the four boys with a brand new captivation, Perito Moreno now relegated to simply being the backdrop, as I realized that perhaps the next “BIG” adventure Vito and I are always looking for could indeed be...parenthood.

We'll be back with "Part 2" to show you four unique places to stay in Patagonia that are very "conducive" to this whole life contemplating business...
 

• • •    LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Life's greatest adventures don't require travel to the ends of the earth, though we may need to go there to realize it. 

{ For more far away travel ideas, visit our Pinterest board: RemoteTravel }

LLYT Challenge : Try Out New Traditions

There is some kind of magic that envelops January... It's the start of the new year and it's impossible not to feel just a little bit like this year ANYTHING is truly possible. So many interesting and exciting adventures await! Ahhhh....

Ok, did you finish giving yourself a hug and twirling around the room with eyes closed? Guess what, those interesting and exciting adventures will not just fall in your lap (well they might if you're lucky) but are you willing to leave it up to chance to have "the best year of your life?" Why not actively pursue those exciting and interesting adventures instead of just waiting for them to happen? That's right, inspiration drill sargent Alla is here! Now drop down and give me 20...and on your knuckles! 

That's the magic of travel, it puts us right in the path of adventures. Whether it's because we have our eyes open for them or simply because we're immersed in a new atmosphere of another culture, we find excitement all around. But this magic does not have to END when we touch town at our home airport. Let's review the first concept of our mission shall we?

• • •

Foster a curiosity for the world and celebrate our differences.

Well that's why we travel right? We want to soak up a new language, discover amazing food you won't get elsewhere or shop in the quaint streets of a charming town... even to see what it feels like to live like a local. The life-long student in us, feels alive with the stimulation of new experiences and learnings. We borrow from other cultures and traditions to enrich our own personalized approach.

 

So what are we going to do about all this? 
How about just 3 SIMPLE THINGS?!!! 

1 - Choose ONE holiday celebration from another culture to celebrate this year. 
Is there one you've always been curious about? Maybe you've seen your neighbors celebrate and it looked like a good time? Maybe your city or a cultural house organizes a celebration. Challenge yourself this year to join in on the party!

2 - Choose a cuisine that you've never cooked before... and learn to cook ONE dish! 
Perhaps a friend can teach you? Or how about a cooking workshop? Why not get in touch with a food blogger and ask them for advice.

and the 3rd... EASY!

3 - Follow a global neighbor on Instagram from a country/culture that you're curious about. 
Choose someone who likes to share views of their country and everyday lives (and their eats!). Ask them questions if you see something you're not familiar with! 
 

You might be thinking, ok maybe I will take your challenge...
but are YOU guys going to do this too? 

Of course!

I'm very infatuated with Asia in general lately and Chinese New Year celebration in particular. My curiosity was peeked through friends that have taken me by the hand and introduced me to this holiday over the years. Amazingly enough a French friend took me to China town in NYC for Chinese New Year to hear the drums and see the dancing dragon collecting money from shop owners. A Panamanian friend introduced me to one of her Chinese New Year traditions of going out for a dim-sum brunch. Both these friends are not Chinese, they just fell in love with the holiday and decided to make it part of their traditions! 

So I in turn would like to introduce my little family to the fun of Chinese New Year and create a CNY tradition in our house! To help me, our very own Mu-Hsien will share a glimpse of a special way to celebrate from her home town and a global neighbor Amy, who writes a delightful cooking blog, will guide me with getting started with Chinese cooking! I'm beyond excited! Of course we are sharing it all with you in case Chinese New Year is on your list of holidays to 'try on'.  

• • •     LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

Love it? Share it! - We are dedicated to sharing stories that spark ideas and are meaningful to you. The best way to let us know is to post a comment, like belw or pin on Pinterest! ~ For More ways to Live Like You're Traveling, follow us on Feedly, Bloglovin, Pinterest, or Facebook. 

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IDEA126: Travel Like a Local and Stay in a Family Friendly Kid & Coe Home

Sometimes you come across a company and you just want to scream "YES!!! This is exactly what I've been dreaming about!". Well here is a fabulous new find for traveling with kids. (Thanks BozAround for the introduction!) Kid & Coe are taking "apartment" stay to the next level specializing in places with children's rooms equipped with toys and other child friendly extras. I don't know about you but when we travel we bring a suitcase for ourselves, a suitcase for the child (we have yet to travel with our new baby Vin, but he is only 3 weeks old) AND a suitcase with toys, not to mention a stroller. Staying at Kid & Coe place will surely help to eliminate the toy suitcase at least. 

Improving travel logistics is only one of the benefits, what we really love about this idea is how you can experience a destination while living like a local family! You know we here at OTSP are all about immersion travel. Eating like locals, or rather with locals, and now you can live like a local too. I for one can't wait to try this out. I told Vito last year that I thought it would be fun to celebrate Christmas in Iceland with the whole family. He thought it was a rather strange idea considering Iceland is a cold and dark place in the middle of winter. I however envision cozy strolls along the shopping street during the Christmas presents rush and having hot chocolates at the adorable cafes. Of course going for a family dip in the pools. Going on sled rides... the list goes on as I think there is plenty of family fun to be had in the wintry Iceland. By the way, each Kid&Coe apartment comes with a guide of kid friendly activities from a local scout. Perfection!

• • • 
[ The Hrisateigur Residence, Iceland ]

At the end of a fun filled day you want to come "home" and have a refrigerator available for the inevitable snacks and milk bottles, you want comfortable room to "stow" your kids away for a night of sweet dreams and TRUST me you want a comfortable living room with a TV and somewhere to perch your over-sized glass of red wine for an evening of relaxation. Vito and I call it the "happy moment", when we sit down on the couch alone after tucking in our oldest into bed promptly at 8pm. Yes it's a bit different traveling with a toddler because unlike a baby who will happily snooze through thumping samba music in his stroller while his parents sip caipirinas at a swanky South Beach, Miami lounge, a toddler needs a real bed and preferably a night light with star shapes. (Prince!) Thus unless you want to be sitting in the dark starting at 8pm you need a place with a living room.  

• • • 

Kid&Coe's accommodations look so adorable that I can just imagine having a sweet little Christmas dinner at the "borrowed home" and pretending we're an Icelandic family! Would you just check out this residence of 5 bedrooms! Three adorable children's rooms fully stocked with toys, shelves of books and plastic dinosaurs!!! Also check out the huge bathtub! I can definitely see a "happy moment" happening in one of those! 

There is only one issue remains to be settled... WHEN ARE WE GOING!? 

• • •     LESSONS LEARNED    • • •

For happy travels make sure your child
and YOU have plenty of toys.

Love it? Share it! - We are dedicated to sharing stories that spark ideas and are meaningful to you. The best way to let us know is to post a comment, like below or pin it on Pinterest! ~ For more ways Live Like You're Traveling, follow us on Feedly, Bloglovin, Pinterest, or Facebook. 

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