tips – Be Bold

The Somewhat Peculiar Bucket List #4: Explore the Black Forest

The Black Forest sounds like a haunting, spooky experience one takes on Halloween, where villains from fairytales lurk to lure innocent children from their parents. It invokes the scene of Snow White when the princess is fleeing through the forest and every tree is leering at her, branches trying to grab her. In reality, the Black Forest is a stunningly gorgeous stretch of forest that cuts through southwest Germany. The dense swath of evergreen trees run over the mountainous land and is filled with beautiful villages. Any trip to Germany should include a visit to this picturesque region.

If you are a fan of the Brothers Grimm fairytales, the Black Forest is a must-see excursion. Stepping into a village of the Black Forest is like stepping back to the time of Rapunzel or Hansel and Gretel or Little Red Riding Hood. When I visited Germany, I spent a week going from west to east, exploring different regions. I spent two days in the Black Forest, and it wasn’t nearly enough. I was only able to experience two towns here out of the many dotting the forest. I spent a night in Freiburg im Breisgau and a day in Triberg. I did return for a night in Triberg about half a year later because I fell in love with this town. This guide only gives you a tiny glimpse into the expanse of the Black Forest. There are many other places to see and each one offers unique experiences. Wherever you choose to visit, the Black Forest will be an unforgettable experience.

Freiburg im Breisgau is right at the edge of the Black Forest. It’s a university town so it’s a very busy and active town. It offers both the feel of the old village with the luxuries of modern city life. There is a lot of shopping here and even McDonald’s name is plastered on an old tower. It’s definitely a good option for those more comfortable in larger cities rather than more remote, smaller towns.

I stayed in the lovely Hotel Löwen just outside the city centre. Transportation in Freiburg was incredibly easy to navigate and took me where I needed to be, but for the most part, you can walk the city with ease. I really only needed the bus service to get to my hotel and the rest was walkable. There is a tram that runs through the city centre for a nice, picturesque journey.

I did have an embarrassing encounter with the transportation service on the morning I was departing and almost missed my only ride to the train station. I had the first train out that morning, so I had to leave incredibly early. The regular bus wasn’t running at that hour, but Google Maps said there would be a bus for me to catch. So, I waited, and a white van labeled TAXI suddenly pulled up and a man who spoke only in German beckoned me over. Now, we’ve all seen at least one true crime story so a man calling a young woman over to his white van should send off some major alarms. Luckily, a woman who could speak English told me this was the ‘bus’ service at this early hour and I eventually hopped inside. I’m still here to write this so clearly this was not a scheme to lure unsuspecting tourists. I write this to remind you to stay safe, but also, if you have an early train, maybe check with a local about transportation so you aren’t caught off guard.

But onto the city itself. Like I said, Freiburg is a busy town. There were a lot of people bustling about though it never felt crowded. I was able to move about without any problems and enjoy the city without the overwhelming feeling that crowded places usually have.

I find that the biggest intrigue of Freiburg is sightseeing. The entire city looked like it came from one of Grimm’s fairytales, with colorful pastels and intricately painted murals and text. There are the two medieval gates that have stood since the 13^th century. They each have a gorgeous clock tower with vivid blues and plaques and murals commemorating the history of the town. If you angle your phone correctly, you’ll get a photo of the larger gate without the horrid McDonald’s on the archway next to it which breaks the illusion.

As you make your way through the city, visit the old Freiburg Minster which towers over the city and see the beautiful stained glass of the cathedral. Be sure to stop by the market at Münsterplatz and the historical Merchant’s Hall in the square. And if you need more information about the city, stop by the Old Town Hall at Rathäuser for the visitor center.

My favorite place in Freiburg was the Kanonenplatz, a lookout point right in the forest. It was easy to find and the hike wasn’t too arduous, but it is uphill so be prepared if you decide to make the trek. There is also a cable car in the mountain, Schlossbergbahn, and the tower, Aussichtsturm Schlossberg, for a more elevated view of the area. I personally didn’t get to experience either of these during my visit, but the views I did get were worth the small hike.

Freiburg only gives you a glimpse of a Black Forest village. It’s a beautiful city worthy of a day trip, but the real awe and beauty lies in Triberg.

Triberg is another tourist destination, but it doesn’t feel like one in the slightest. Even its main attraction didn’t feel crowded or overrun and I could just enjoy the quiet beauty of it all.

When you arrive in Triberg, you’ll notice three things. First is the sheer number of trees enveloping the mountains all around with tiny homes dotting the greenery. Second, you’ll notice all the ticking of cuckoo clocks. And third, you’ll hear the sound of water from wherever you are. These are what make Triberg so special.

Triberg is right in the middle of the Black Forest and the town is surrounded by the thick trees overtaking the region. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen before and is absolutely stunning. I wish I could move into one of those little houses perched on the mountainside. It looks like the perfect, quaint little retreat for writing a novel inspired by the fairytales that live here.

While you’re visiting the village, stop by The House of 1000 Clocks, a giant souvenir shop where you can take home authentic German handicraft. The most famous of which are the stunning cuckoo clocks. They are intricately crafted with beautiful detail and would make the perfect gift from the Black Forest. Due to luggage space and budget, I only walked away with a cuckoo clock pin. I did, however, get a souvenir that I will cherish forever.

Ever since I was little, I have collected nutcrackers. I love the little soldiers and have amassed a little ‘army’ of them who assemble every Christmas. So of course, when I found a whole shelf of handmade German nutcrackers, I wasn’t leaving without one. There are many other pieces of woodwork at The House of 1000 Clocks, so you’ll be sure to find a souvenir that fits your needs.

But the biggest attraction of Triberg is the waterfall. It’s one of the highest in Germany with seven drops and the water continues running alongside the road. You can find the waterfall by hiking a short way up through the forest and experience the awe of it. I can see why so many tales were born from here, as the beauty of this forest is unmatched. I could envision a princess living in a cottage with seven men, or a witch lurking in a homemade of sweets, or a wolf dressed in grandma’s clothes to trick an unsuspecting young girl. I could believe that magic lived in this land because it was just so alluring and inviting.

You can visit just about every part of the waterfall. There are two bridges crossing it, one lower and one upper that requires a bit of a climb. I made my way to the upper bridge and the view was breathtaking. I truly wish I could live here for extended periods just writing and sketching. If there’s only one place in Germany you can visit, I can’t recommend Triberg enough.

After visiting the waterfall, you can continue hiking along the forest and visit the Bergsee fishing pond and down the road from here, you can see the Maria in der Tanne church where a tailor placed a figure of Mary in a fir tree. It was believed the water from a nearby spring cured his leprosy and a girl’s eye disease and so the spot was considered sacred. The church was built later, and you can visit the spot today.

In the village, you can experience the history of the Black Forest at the Schwarzwaldmuseum. You can see things from old clothing to cuckoo clocks to street organs to mining tools.

When hunger hits, nothing beats schnitzel and Black Forest cake is an absolute must. When I visited in the summer, I ate at Schinkenstraße which is right at the edge of the entrance to the waterfall. If you sit outside, you can enjoy the sound of the water going by and look out at the forest. Hotel-Restaurant Pfaff sits across the street and is a popular dinner spot, though the prices are a bit steeper there.

My first visit was just a day trip, and it was easy to explore the town in the day. The train station offers locker rental for your luggage and there’s a bus, but the walk is easy enough. When I returned in the winter, I stayed at the Parkhotel Wehrle in the middle of the city. This was a lovely hotel and the room had an awesome view of the forest. Everyone was friendly and our stay included a little ‘meet and greet’ over a free glass of champagne.

With it being off-season, the price was very reasonable and well worth the stay. If you do go in winter, you’ll find some places closed, like Schinkenstraße, and the upper bridge of the waterfall, as well as a majority of the trail. You can still appreciate the village in winter, but summer definitely offers more.

I have only scratched the surface of the Black Forest. There are so many more villages to visit. There’s the spas of Baden-Baden and the UNESCO world heritage site of Kloster Maulbronn. Whichever one piques your interest, I highly recommend exploring the Black Forest at least once in your lifetime.

The Essential Guide for the Solo Traveler in Europe

Traveling alone can incredibly intimidating. So many unknowns can happen, and you don’t have someone at your side in case something goes wrong. I can say from experience that traveling alone is also one of the best things you can do. When I lived in London, I knew I had the opportunity to see so many of the things I had always dreamt of seeing. Unfortunately, I didn’t have anyone to go with. If I had let my anxiety over the idea of traveling alone win, I would’ve missed out on so many incredible things.

Traveling solo is such an amazing experience. There is so much you can do and really take the time to enjoy yourself. In this post, I’ll share all the things I learned to keep yourself safe while traveling alone, how to make the most of your trip, and how to break out of your shell.

Don’t miss your departure for your next adventure

Always be aware of your surroundings

The simplest way to keep yourself safe when you’re traveling solo is to always be aware of your surroundings. Keep your head up and not buried in your phone, even if you need directions. Walk like you have a purpose and even if you’re lost, don’t let it show. To everyone else, you should look like you belong there. If anything makes you appear like an easy target, you are at risk of being mugged, pickpocketed, or worse. As long as you let everyone around you believe in your confidence, you have a much smaller chance of being targeted.

A few things to always keep in mind as you travel:

Carry a sturdy bag and keep it closed.
Don’t carry your phone/wallet/keys in your pockets, especially your back pocket.
Be wary of strangers coming up and asking questions. For example, in Paris, children will run up and ask you to buy something from them. While you’re distracted, someone else will pickpocket you. If you’re in a café in London, someone, usually a woman, will walk up and place a map or piece of paper on the table, hiding your phone. While asking you a question, they’ll take your phone off the table. Whatever the situation, always be aware of your belongings and if someone is making you uncomfortable, walk away towards a crowd or into a shop.
Never share a taxi with a stranger. Taken definitely taught us this lesson, but it’s one to always remember.

Be smart about accommodation

Just when you think you’ve found a great deal on your hotel, you realize that it’s not in the city center. That 10-mile distance on Expedia doesn’t seem that bad. Surely there’s a bus that can get you there. This is exactly the mistake I made in Germany.

When I was planning my trip, I booked a hotel just outside the city of Munich. It was a reasonable deal and was very budget friendly for my three-night stay. Unfortunately, while I saved on money, I took on a lot of hassle. I arrived in Munich around 9 pm and had to find a way to my hotel far in the distance. I attempted to take a train but with all the people around, the late hour, and the anxiety that had been plaguing me since the beginning of my trip, I was overwhelmed. I decided to take a taxi, which set me back about €30. The next day, after some rest and time to ease my mind, I managed the train. And still, it was not that easy. My hotel was a 20-minute walk from the station which isn’t bad until you’re rolling a suitcase all that way. Then, it was another 35 minutes on the train, so I had to spend nearly two hours on travel every day during my time in Munich.

So always check the map when booking your hotel and look for transportation to and from the city center to your accommodation.

Another option to consider when saving money are hostels. Personally, I was terrified to stay in one. I get really nervous around strangers and the idea of sharing a bedroom with them is terrifying. Eventually, I decided to chance it for the first time when I was in Denmark. Copenhagen is a very expensive place to visit and so a hostel was the only reasonable accommodation I could find. I actually found it to be not too bad. Though I will always prefer the comfort of a private hotel room, hostels are a reasonable option. People pretty much keep to themselves and are they are a very warm and welcoming environment, so even the shyest person won’t feel too out of place.

Schaan-Vaduz Youth Hostel in Liechtenstein

A few things to pack if you’re staying at a hostel

A lock to secure your belongings in the lockers. Some will come with locks, but many times, it’s on you to keep your things safe.
A towel if you can spare the luggage space. Hostels do offer towels at a small fee.
Shower shoes, as you’ll be using a communal shower.
Headphones if you need music to sleep.
A book light if you read before bed. Depending on the hostel, you may have a bed light but if you’re bunk doesn’t have privacy walls, your night light can bother your fellow roommates.
An open mind. Those you end up sharing a hostel with are just like you; travelers looking for adventure on a budget.

Be smart with your money

Exchange for the currency you’ll need beforehand to avoid fees. You can usually get a good exchange rate at the airport or train station, but usually the best rates will be from your bank back home. A lot of places will take cards, but each transaction will come with an exchange fee.

If you have a travel credit card, exchange fees may be waived, but always check with your T&C before traveling to see what benefits you get from using it abroad.

If you are carrying cash, never carry all of it at once. Divide your money so that if you get pickpocketed, you haven’t lost all of your money. Do the same with your cards so that you aren’t stranded with nothing should the worst happen.

Be smart with your time

Try and get as many trips as you can out of one. If you live in the US, you know just how astronomical flight prices can be. Even domestic flights between states can reach hundreds of dollars for the bare minimum. Not to mention you have to pay for parking, baggage fees, food and drink. Costs skyrocket quickly and when it’s international, it’s even more expensive. One trick I discovered is that, once you book the initial flight out of the US, flight prices drop drastically. Even flights between European countries are a fraction of the price of domestic flights in the US. I’ve found flights for under $100 from one side of the EU to the other.

So, if you plan a trip to Germany, consider also visiting the neighboring countries of the Czech Republic or France. Visiting Switzerland? Take a trip to the small principality of Liechtenstein. Trains offer an easy way to explore the many countries of Europe and you can visit many different places at a reasonable price. For my graduation trip, we visited eight cities in six different countries over the span of eleven days. We managed to get the most out of our days in each city and see so many different countries, all thanks to the amazing train system of Europe.

Don’t sneer at lesser-known cities

Some of the most beautiful places I’ve visited are the lesser-known cities that don’t see heavy tourism that their neighboring cities do. Tintagel, United Kingdom is one of my favorite places I’ve ever seen. Triberg, Germany is the best place to experience the Black Forest, Caernarfon and Pembroke are two stunning Welsh cities, Colmar, France is a fairytale come to life. When you’re planning your trip, make sure to check out the small towns as well as the big cities.

Go off season

If you’re looking for another way to save on money, try going off season. I visited Venice in late January and experienced only a fraction of the tourists. When I went to Tintagel in early January, I got to stay at the gorgeous Camelot Castle Hotel for a reasonable price. There are of course some cons. A lot of the shops and museums in Tintagel were closed for the season and transportation was reduced. So, consider what you’ll be sacrificing and decide if going off season works for you.

Now that you’re ready for you trip, here are some things to make it as memorable as it can be.

Eat local

This seems obvious but I feel like I should mention it anyway. When I stayed in Paris for a month for French class, there was a group that ate at Chipotle every single day so clearly some people need to be reminded to eat the local food.

I developed a system when I was traveling as a way of trying the local cuisine while staying on my tight budget so I could do as many things as possible. When you travel in Europe, you’ll find that almost all hotels do not include a complimentary breakfast. Breakfast almost always comes at an extra charge, with some exceptions, so be sure to check your amenities when booking your hotel. So, for breakfast, usually I’d grab a local pastry or something I can eat on the go. When in the Czech Republic, I had to try a real kolache and compare it to the kolaches of West, Texas. Croissants are a must have in France and scones are necessary in the UK.

This would fuel me for a day of walking through the city I was exploring for the day. Then by the late afternoon, I’d be ready for a dinner. This is where I would splurge for some good cuisine. In Switzerland, I couldn’t leave without trying fondue and in Barcelona, paella was mandatory. And what better place to have French onion soup than France?

Black forest cake tastes so much better in the Black Forest, and ice cream is always a treat on a hot day, especially in the special chimney cake of Prague. Even things I was scared to try, I forced myself to do so. I was an incredibly picky eater as a child and so I have a lot to make up for, though there are still some things I can’t bring myself to try. I’ve been to France a few times and I’ve yet to eat a single escargot. I highly recommend trying at least one thing you’re afraid of that is reasonable. You may end up finding something you love.

Climb for a bird’s-eye-view

One of my favorite things to do in any city is go somewhere high up and look over the buildings and the people below. Nothing puts it into perspective quite like seeing just how huge Paris is from the Eiffel Tower, the gorgeous rooftops of Prague, or the mountains in the distance of Zurich. You can walk the streets all day, but I think that looking down from above gives such a unique perspective that shows you another side to the city.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, Austria

There are many ways to get this view. The most obvious is a structure specifically made for this, like the Eiffel Tower and the London Eye. If the city you’re visiting doesn’t have this, look for a clock tower in the town center, or a cathedral with a tall bell tower. Many times, you’ll be able to go up these for cheap and you’ll get that awesome view. Cathedrals like Grossmünster in Zurich and St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna are gorgeous on the inside and offer stunning views. You can see the city of Munich from the clock tower of the New Town Hall or visit the top of Prague’s Astronomical Clock.

The view from Prague’s Astronomical Clock Tower

You can also get the views for free by climbing hills around the city if there are any. You can see the entire city of Vaduz, Liechtenstein from the hill where the castle sits. In Budapest, you can climb up Gellért Hill or you can see Edinburgh from Arthur’s Seat, a hill next to the city. The most interesting tower I’ve climbed so far is the Freitag Tower in Zurich. Made up of old shipping containers, it serves as the store for Freitag, but you can also climb up to the top of the nine stacked containers and look over Zurich from the Industrial Quarter. There are endless possibilities and unique experiences so always keep your mind open for surprises.

This leads to my next tip.

Be spontaneous

No matter how much research you’ll do before your trip, you won’t know everything about the city you’re visiting before you go. Of course, you’ll see all the famous tourist sites and a few well-loved local spots that people share online, but the only way you’ll truly know the city is by exploring. As you navigate, Google Maps will often show you places of interest near you. Don’t be afraid to take a moment and check them out. Myself, I am very much interested in the old Roman architecture that still stands in Europe, as well as old castle ruins. Google helped me find these easily, often when I wasn’t even looking for them. I just find it so fascinating to see the small pieces of the past in the present and it helps me appreciate the city even more so.

Whatever interests you, make sure to keep your eyes open. You may find an experience you never would have otherwise.

Go at your own pace

The best thing about traveling solo is that you only have to worry about yourself. There is no compromise, except for those with time and money. You are allowed to see the things you want, eat at the places you choose, and you can go at your own speed. For me, I like to get the most out of my trip. I get up early, I walk all day to see all I can, and I return to my hotel after dinner. I take breaks when I’m ready and I keep going when I feel like.

You also get some time to yourself. I did my traveling at a really difficult time in my life. My depression hit a record low when I lived in London, and I found myself locked away in my room for many days at a time. But when I got myself together and out into the world, I was able to improve my mental health. I got to enjoy the moment and enjoy life again. Seeing the beauty of the world helped me more than I will ever truly know.

My fear of flights is miniscule compared to my love for travel

I truly believe that traveling alone can do so much for you. You will learn so much about yourself and the world and get a new appreciation for travel. As long as you pack smart, keep yourself safe and aware of your surroundings, and allow flexibility in your plans, you will have an amazing experience. I hope this little guide helps you to either take that leap and book your first solo trip, or it gives you something new to do on your next solo adventure.

The Millennial’s Guide to Disneyland

I have visited a Disneyland Park every year since 2014, with the exception of 2020 for obvious reasons. I attended the 60^th Diamond Celebration of Disneyland, the Christmas and Halloween events, and the Halloween Party at Disneyland Paris. In my years of experience, I’ve learned many tips and tricks when it comes to getting the most out of your experience. As someone without children, this guide is more for the young adults who plan to visit the original Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California.

Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Christmas 2017

Buy Tickets Ahead of Time

Even before the pandemic hit and Disneyland had to greatly reduce the number of guests per day, buying your ticket ahead of time saves you a lot of time. To avoid a queue of a family of ten trying to buy their park tickets for the day, go to the Disneyland website, select the day you’re planning to visit and beat the crowd.

Halloween is just one of the many events you can celebrate at Disneyland

Plan Ahead

Disneyland is so much more than just rides. There are opportunities to meet your favorite characters (one of my personal favorite things to do), parades, shows, amazing food, etc., etc. It’s pretty much impossible to do everything if you’re only visiting for one day. Even more so if you’ve got a park hopper ticket. So, before your trip, make a general plan of all the things you must do so that you’re not overwhelmed when you arrive at the parks. You will need to be flexible, as wait times for rides vary all day long.

If you are someone who wants to see every parade and show, make a note of the times and squeeze in some rides in between. But always be aware of the time and make sure you find a spot early to get a good view. For those avoiding parades and wanting to ride every single ride, be aware that cast members will reroute the foot traffic before the parades and fireworks. Several of the main paths will be closed off, delaying your quick scurry to Thunder Mountain that has a 5-minute wait time.

Joy and Sadness at the Pixar Play Parade

Pack Smart

A backpack is the best bag to go to Disneyland with because it will hold all your essentials: a jacket if you’re visiting outside the summer months, a power bank for your phone, sunscreen, water, snacks, an autograph book for those character moments, and the souvenirs you pick up along the way. As long as your bag fits under the seat or in the pouch on the ride and it’s not stuffed with heavy items, this will be your best friend for the day.

Prepare to Walk

Disneyland is massive and you will be doing a whole lot of walking and standing. There are benches all around the park for a break, but you can often find yourself baking in the sun. Be prepared with comfortable walking shoes, even if you had other ideas for your perfect Disneyland outfit. There’s always the option of renting a locker, or if you’re staying at a Disney hotel, you can change to get that photo moment with the perfect pair of shoes. I would recommend just dressing for the day to get more out of your experience, but an outfit change is manageable.

Arrive Early

Check the park’s opening times for the day you’ll be visiting and plan to get there at least a half hour early to give yourself ample time to park, go through security and get inside the park. Trust me, that extra hour or so that you wake up to get there early is so worth it. The last time we got there before the park opened, we were able to ride five rides in our first hour and get some snacks along the way. We were at California Adventure, and we managed not only the Incredicoaster, but also Soarin’ Around the World, and Grizzly River Run, all three of which are notorious for long lines.

Pixar Pier at California Adventure is just one of the many sites at Disneyland

Use the Disneyland App

Before your trip, download the Disneyland App. This will save you the most time as you can track wait times for rides and meet and greets, navigate around the park without a bulky map, order food for pick-up, save all your photo experiences from the day, etc. When characters roamed the park before the pandemic, the app would help you keep track of where to find them at certain times. You can also save your reservations for your entire party on the app, including everyone’s tickets so you don’t have a whole group fumbling for their phones. But be careful. This app can be a battery drainer, especially for the designated handler of all the planning. I recommend always bringing a power bank with you. If you find yourself without one, you can always rent one from the park, but this will set you back about $30.

Character meet and greets are not just for children

If you’re like me and you grew up with Disney films, the character meet and greets can be incredibly special. The actors who bring the characters to life have created so many magical moments for me.

One of my most memorable experiences was meeting Flynn Rider outside the Princess Pavilion. Before we took our photo, he had a little spat with Gaston who was strutting around, trying to get the attention on him, which was so in character. When I was talking to Flynn, he asked where I was headed to next, and I told him we were going to the Princess Pavilion. He then asked me to apologize to Snow White for borrowing the Dwarves, but he did return the diamonds. Most of them anyway. I did reassure him that he’s the best thief in the kingdom and he gave me a resounding “Thank you!”, glad that someone finally appreciated him.

I even got to meet Gaston afterwards and he was very much the pompous, arrogant, self-absorbed man we know from the movie. He was absolutely incredible and even made me wrap both arms around him.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve struggled with talking to people, especially strangers. I can’t manage even the simplest of small talk, but I find a comfort in talking to the Disney characters. It’s an opportunity to forget my nerves and live in the stories I love for just a brief moment. So, if you have even the slightest desire to meet a character, I can’t recommend it enough.

Find the Perfect Souvenir

Disney merchandise can be expensive and with the reopening after Covid, there has been a significant price hike. The sought-after Disney Spirit Jersey went from $54.99 in 2018 to $74.99 in 2021, the ear headbands went from $24.99 in 2018 to $29.99 in 2021, etc. So, it’s very important to choose your souvenirs wisely. T-shirts are usually the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of a souvenir and Disney sells hundreds of styles all throughout the parks. I personally would recommend skipping them. While they are well-made, they are expensive and they will fade, the fit will change, holes will eventually form. Jackets are a little of a safer bet, as they are more durable. I still have my 60^th anniversary jacket and it’s not showing any sign of fading or tearing. Unless you want to drop a good chunk of change on the spirit jersey (which I have done and I absolutely love my jersey) or a jacket, I’d steer clear of clothing.

What I’ve chosen to do for my yearly souvenir is a pair of Mickey or Minnie ears and a pin. Recently, Disney ears have exploded in popularity and Disney has begun releasing yearly versions. There are far too many to choose from most of the time, but I always find that special pair to wear throughout the day. My collection is growing, and I love being able to display my ears. They remind me of that particular trip, especially the ones that were released as that year’s signature ears.

I also find the perfect pin to remember the Disney trip and add it to my lanyard. This pin always means something special beyond my trip to Disneyland. I visit my family who live in southern California every year, so I find a pin to commemorate something we did together, such as the year my aunt took my cousins and I to high tea. I got the limited-edition Mad Hatter pin as a special reminder of that visit. I’ve gotten an adventure pin the year we went camping at the beach, a Mary Poppins pin the year we saw the play at the Glendale Community Theatre, and so on. Sometimes, I will nab an extra pin, as there are hundreds to choose from, and they are a reasonable souvenir, both in price and luggage space. Be aware that if you’re displaying your pins, you may be asked to trade with others. While I personally don’t participate, as every pin on my lanyard is very special, it’s a fun way to build your collection with some rare selections.

Eat ALL the Food

Even Disneyland Paris has the famous pretzels

Unless you really need the chance to sit down for at least a half hour to an hour, skip out on the dine-in experience. There is so much food at Disneyland, it’s better to snack throughout the day than to fill up on something that sits heavy in your stomach before jumping on another ride. My one exception to this is the Blue Bayou at the Pirates of the Caribbean because that is an experience you can’t get anywhere else, and the food is exceptional. You get to sit in a low-lit dining room made to look like the swamps of New Orleans as watch the boats go by. It’s so unique and worth every penny, especially if you order the Monte Cristo. As soon as you have your tickets, jump onto the app and look for reservations. Be warned, these spots fill up very fast so the earlier you do so, the better your chance of getting a seat is.

By skipping the restaurant, you can spend more time doing the things you want to do, and you can sample so much more food. Since I’ve gone so often, I’ve developed a sort of routine to make sure I get all my favorite Disney snacks. To start, I can’t resist a coffee from Starbucks in their enchanting cups while I stand in line for my first ride.

Always start the day with a good cup of coffee

By mid-morning, a Mickey pretzel is a must-have, although it has recently been replaced as a personal favorite by the atomic pretzel from Pym’s Test Kitchen at the Avenger’s Campus. Atop the soft, warm pretzel are bleu cheese crumbles, chicken tenders, carrots and celery, buffalo sauce and ranch. It’s like having two appetizers in one and is the best treat to share with your group.

The secret is out, the atomic pretzel is the best new thing at Disneyland

For a quick lunch, there’s so many options but my favorite is the corndog. Another popular treat is the giant turkey leg. No matter your choice, the food is guaranteed to be delicious.

The pineapple churro from Sleeping Beauty’s Castle Churro Cart

The churro is another must-have treat. Use the Disneyland App to track down the best churro flavor, as the carts all sell different flavors throughout the park. The churro cart by Sleeping Beauty’s castle usually sells the specialty flavor of the year, such as the strawberry churro they had in 2020 and the pineapple churro of 2018. But my favorite dessert at Disneyland, and one you cannot miss out on, is the Gray Stuff Gateau from the Red Rose Tavern next to Pinocchio’s Journey. The strange confection is made up of a white chocolate mousse around a red velvet cake with raspberries inside, resting atop a biscuit. It truly is delicious, you can even ask the dishes.

Try the Gray Stuff Gateau, it’s delicious

You can find an easy dinner if you’re up to your fill of fried food. New Orleans Square offers quick-service jambalaya and French Dip sandwiches that are great options that you won’t regret once you’re on your next ride.

As for drinks, a mint julep and the Dole Whip offer a refreshing, cool sugar rush, but be sure to carry a water bottle. Bottled water goes for $3 each and that soda isn’t going to keep you hydrated. It gets hot in the summer and you’re going to be standing in the sun, so always have your water. There are water fountains all around the park for a quick refill.

A refreshing mint julep in New Orleans Square

If you’re really saving money, Disneyland does allow you to bring your own food, within reason. You can’t set up a picnic on Tom Sawyer’s Island, or bring glass containers, but you can stock up on chips and pack homemade sandwiches.

Go on a Hunt

Just like the movies, the parks are filled with hidden Mickeys. While standing in line for the rides, you may just spot one, so take a look around your surroundings. Even if you don’t find a Mickey, you’ll get to enjoy the scenery. Disneyland has meticulously created each area of the park to feel like you’re truly in another world. Whether it be the future of Tomorrowland, the magical realm of Fantasyland, or in a galaxy far, far away in Galaxy’s Edge. I myself have only found two hidden Mickeys, one in California Adventure and one in Tomorrowland, so with every visit, I keep my eyes open in the hopes of finding more.

Say Hi to Walt Disney

Without Walt Disney, we wouldn’t have this incredible place or the movies that shaped us in more ways than we probably realize. Walt greets the thousands of guests that visit Disneyland daily, hand-in-hand with Mickey Mouse, just before the castle that leads to Fantasyland. Get your picture with the man, and the mouse, who started it all.

Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse greet guests on Main Street

Also, make sure to stop by the Disneyland Fire Department, just past City Hall on Main Street, when you first enter Disneyland Park. You’ll notice a single lantern lit in the window up above. This was once the apartment of Disney himself and any time he was here in the park, the light would be lit. After his death, the light was kept on permanently because his spirit remains in the park, bringing joy to all those who enter.

Some tips and tricks

The line for Pirates of the Caribbean slows down in the late afternoon/early evening.
If you’re in a line that splits, divert away from where those ahead of you are going.
Be wary of Peter Pan. The ride breaks down a lot so that 30-minute wait often becomes a one hour wait time. I absolutely love this ride, but the wait is very much a pain.
On that note, avoid the line during noontime, as you’ll be directly in the sun.
Don’t skip the ‘dark rides’ (Peter Pan, Snow White, Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, etc.) They are charming and full of nostalgia.
Certain rides are notorious for long lines so if you see a short wait time, don’t pass it up. Space Mountain, Indiana Jones, Splash Mountain, and the Matterhorn often have the longest lines at Disneyland. Radiator Springs Racers, Soarin’ Around the World, and Grizzly River Run are usually packed at California Adventure.
Galaxy’s Edge is way less crowded in the evening and looks beautiful at dusk. Almost like you’re actually stepping onto another planet.
Watching the fireworks from a ride can be an experience. If you are interested in the show, I do recommend that you get a good spot to watch the show they display on the castle. But for those who are just interested in the rides, The Matterhorn has amazing views as you’re twisting and turning. Storybook Canal offers a more quiet, relaxed setting for the fireworks.
Toon Town closes earlier on fireworks nights so make sure you don’t miss out.

In Summary

Post-pandemic Disneyland is very different than it was before the pandemic. I understand the safety concerns for guests and cast members and would rather have it this way than put so many at risk. I do hope that when Covid is no longer a threat that they go back to what makes Disneyland so magical. I miss the parades and the more personal meet and greet experiences. Unfortunately, the closest interaction you can have with a character is relegated to California Adventure, so if you don’t have the more expensive park hopper ticket, you’ll miss out.

Snow White greeting guests from afar in California Adventure

I also want a return of the Max Pass. The $10 addition to your ticket allowed you to enter fast pass queues on your phone from anywhere in the park and it was by far the best purchase you’d make that day. The Disney Genie Service released earlier this month and is a very pricey addition to your park ticket and it goes on a ride-by-ride basis. With tickets already at an all-time high, having to pay for single fast passes for each ride is a major deterrent. I understand the ticket increase is likely to recoup the lost profits from 2020, but you are paying a whole lot more for a whole lot less.

Before the pandemic, I was a firm believer that Disneyland was worth the price. Depending on how things change once the pandemic is truly ended, I hope I don’t have to change my mind. I will always love Disneyland. It truly is the most magical place in earth and I hope it retains that magic in the future.

How to Live Abroad

From September 2018 to January 2020, I had the fortune of living in the gorgeous city of London in the United Kingdom while attending City, University of London for my Master’s in Creative Writing and Publishing. Moving to London was the best decision of my life. It was a huge risk with a lot of unknowns, but it was also a dream come true. I can’t quite describe the feeling, but it just felt right. The moment I stepped out of the taxi and onto the streets of London, I knew I was home. When I travel, I suffer from a lot of anxiety but for whatever reason, I never felt that during my year and a half stay in London. This truly felt like home.

I learned so much during my time abroad, some of which I wish I had known earlier in my journey. There’s very little I would change about my experience but there are some things I wish I had done a little differently. If there’s one thing I can say to those considering living abroad for whatever reason: Do it. It’s the most incredible, eye-opening experience one could ever have. And I hope these tips can make the journey a little easier.

Pack Smart

Moving to a new city can be hectic and expensive, especially when you’re travelling to a new country, and packing is the last thing you want to worry about. Being smart about what you pack can save you a lot of hassle and money. Consider what you can purchase in your new home and leave those items behind. There are many places where you can get the basics for cheap, and you’ll have more precious suitcase space. You can always upgrade your housewares as you settle in.

Try to be a minimalist when it comes to clothes. They take up way more room than you realize, even with the rolling method. The wardrobe space was also considerably smaller than I was used to so I couldn’t bring too much anyway. Moving from Texas to a chilly place like London, I didn’t have to worry about packing coats and it was incredibly easy to add that to my wardrobe when I was there.

I did have to leave behind several things in order to bring home the neat stuff I found in Europe so be conscious of what you are packing. Do learn from my mistake: don’t hoard books. You won’t be able to get them all under the weight limit.

Find Your New Living Space

Accommodation is difficult, no matter where you are moving to. From the price of rent to the limited options to that one roommate who makes you want to pull your hair out, it can be incredibly stressful finding and settling into your new home. Usually, you will find student accommodation through your university, but even this can come with a lot of headaches.

One of the struggles I faced with my student accommodation was rent payment. The second payment date was due about a week before my university disbursed my financial aid for the term so many of us were scrambling to find the money to pay a pretty substantial rent. So always be conscious of rent payments and financial aid disbursements so you’re not stuck in a similar situation.

And then there’s the question: “What do I do next?” My student accommodation ended the last day of term at my university, yet I didn’t graduate for another 5 months, and my student visa allowed me to remain in the country for those additional months. I made the choice to remain but that meant going through the arduous task of finding a new flat. It didn’t help that this was my first experience finding a place to live on my own, so I learned a whole lot.

The first thing to remember is finding something within your budget. Make sure to be reasonable in what you are willing to pay each month, keeping in mind fluctuating conversion rates if you are using a foreign bank account. This can be the most limiting thing. Most often you’ll find yourself living outside the main city area with as many roommates as legally (or illegally) as possible. With rents at an all-time high, be prepared to make some compromises.

It would be a dream to have the perfect roommates but what do you do when you live with two guys who refuse to clean the shared bathroom? Or the guy who lets the grease pile up in the oven until it’s near unusable? Or the roommate who cleans like corona is lurking on every surface? Communicate. Communication is the best way to avoid the rotten roommate situation. Make it clear your expectations but be reasonable. And always consider that there may be a reason your roommate isn’t the cleanest person. Try to compromise with one another and set up a system to keep everyone accountable for the flat. And if that fails, maybe it’s time to find a new roommate.

Go Explore

Take time to explore your new home. Go out and find those little nooks and crannies that the guidebooks don’t mention. If you move to a high tourism city, avoid the tourist sites at first. They can be overwhelming and rarely represent your new city. In London, find that local pub that fits your vibe. In Paris, find that picnic spot with the best views. Get to know the people that live in the city, not the sightseers, and you’ll find yourself settling in with a lot more ease.

Find that One Spot

While out exploring, make your new home feel like home by finding that one spot. This spot is where you find comfort and security. It’s where you go to feel happy, even when the homesickness sets in, and it reminds you why you decided to move to your new city. It can be a certain cafe, a restaurant, a park, anywhere that you want it to be.

For me, that place was The Globe in London. When I was feeling lonely and the anxiety would roll in, I would visit The Globe to bring me a sense of comfort. Whether it was attending a play or spending a few hours at the Starbucks next door, or just taking a walk by the Thames, I found myself visiting this place quite often during my time in London. When July 4th came around, I had a sudden bout of homesickness. I was never one for the Fourth of July festivities but all of a sudden, I wanted to go home. Instead, I bought three tickets and watched the Henry plays over a span of two days. This reassured me that I made the right decision, and I was in the city I love, and it was home. I was able to feel at peace and I even managed to get my favorite picture of London that night to always remember those days.

Adapt to the Culture. But Don’t Lose Yourself.

Thanksgiving is the one big holiday not celebrated in the UK. This obviously caused some homesickness among the US exchange students, as well as some complaints that the holiday was not recognized. It’s important to keep in mind that you are living in another culture that will not always cater to you. That’s not to say that you have to give up the traditions and customs from your home country when you move to a new one.

My friends all chipped in with various bits of food and treats the night before Thanksgiving and we celebrated a ‘Friendsgiving’ so that we Americans could feel a little bit of home. This potluck of random food captured the feeling of Thanksgiving, where we gathered with loved ones, remembering to give thanks for what we have. We didn’t need a stuffed turkey with gravy and cranberries; the Tesco cake and ice cream was more than enough.

At Christmas, us publishing nerds decided to have a book exchange for our Christmas party. Once again, everyone brought an assortment of delicious food, including Panettone which I’ve made a staple of my Christmas dinner. We continued this tradition the following year and I’m sure if we had all remained in London, we would be doing it yet again. It’s a lovely combination of tradition and new ideas.

In time, you’ll find ways to adapt without giving up who you are and the traditions you grew up with.

Make New Friends

Making new friends is perhaps the hardest thing to do in any situation for most people, let alone when moving abroad. When you are studying abroad, it’s a bit easier to find others with the same interests which can create that special bond. Cities like London are a true melting pot, and I was lucky to make friends from Italy, Portugal, Australia, all over the UK, and even from the US.

As a shy person, making friends feels impossible. The best advice I can give is to be open to people. Allow yourself to connect with someone over any shared interests. You may not form a strong bond with everyone, but when you do, you may just find a few life-long friends.

Learn How to Find Your Way Around

Figuring out transportation is essential to your new life abroad. Even if you plan to drive, learning the different modes of public transportation can be useful. One of the most common modes is the metro, or the underground, system. This can be the most confusing one at first. The map just looks like a jumbled mess of lines. How is one ever to navigate this?

It’s actually easier than you think. Each metro line is color coded and/or named. The simplest way to navigate the metro is to find they station you are in and the station you want to end up at. Then follow the lines to where they intersect. Sometimes, you will have to go through multiple lines to get to your destination and it can be tricky making sure you are going the right way but following the signs and paying attention to your surroundings will make it much less of a headache.

Get to Work

Finding a job abroad can be tricky. Employment visas vary from country to country so it depends on where you are moving to what requirements and restrictions you will need to be aware of. As a student with a visa, my working hours were restricted to a certain number. When I graduated, my eligibility for employment depended on my employer agreeing to sponsor me.

Working was one of the few things I did not experience during my year-and-a-half abroad as I chose to spend my free time traveling. I do wish I had gone for the many internships presented to me through my university so as to have more knowledge of the career field my degree is in, but I don’t regret all the amazing things I got to see and do while abroad. Take this as a word of caution: balance your time in university. Traveling can give you endless life lessons you will never learn in an office, but sometimes, you do need that office to prepare you for life beyond university.

Conclusion

Living abroad is one of the greatest experiences one can ever have. Even with the stress that comes along with it, I can’t recommend it enough. Seeing the world beyond what you’ve known your entire life provides an experience unmatched by anything else. Wherever you find yourself living, I hope these little tips will help you settle into your new home.