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Latest Posts

Wonderland on Symphony of the Seas Review

Looking for the best Wonderland on Symphony of the Seas review? I’ve got all the details for you here! I’ve visited Royal Caribbean’s Wonderland restaurant three times over the course of five years— twice as a crew member on Anthem of the Seas and once as a guest in 2022 on Symphony of the Seas— and it’s continued to amaze me every single time. Whether you’re...

Top Restaurants in Christchurch, New Zealand

If you’re fresh off “the ice” after working in Antarctica or just passing through Canterbury, a visit to some of the top restaurants in Christchurch, New Zealand is a must. From quick scrumptious bites at the Riverside Market to a romantic fine dining experience on a tram, you never have to wonder where to eat in Christchurch with this handy food guide...

Life at the South Pole Station: Everything You Want to Know

Whenever I tell people I’ve worked in Antarctica, specifically at the South Pole, the most common questions I get asked are about what life at the South Pole Station is like. The short answer:  Working and living at Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, 90° South, is full of challenges; but it is the ultimate experience of a lifetime many of us Polies (people who...

Girl sitting on red rocks wearing KUHL's Konstance Sun Protection Long Sleeve in black/charcoal and women's Freeflex Hiking Short in Rainstorm blue

KÜHL Clothing Review: Women’s Hiking Shorts & Sun Protection Shirt

Anyone who travels for a living knows how important high-quality and lightweight outdoor clothing is. KÜHL understands this and has provided adventure enthusiasts with the apparel they need over the last 40 years. In this women’s KÜHL clothing review, I’ve included my honest feedback on two of their top-selling items: the FREEFLEX™ Hiking Short and KONSTANCE™...

airplane flying in blue skies with slight clouds

5 Tips to Alleviate Dry Eyes While Traveling

If you suffer from dry eyes while traveling, whether by plane or cruise ship, these five tips will help make your travels more comfortable. Note: I’m not a medical professional. These are simply tips I’ve used to combat dry eyes myself. Please consult with your doctor to find out what the best treatment is for you. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. By...

takeshima beach with small rocks on the shore and branches hanging down

Guide to Visiting Takeshima, Gamagori in Japan

If you’re in Central Japan or spending some time in Nagoya, visiting Takeshima in Gamagori should be on your list of places to see. Located in Mikawa Bay, Gamagori city and Takeshima Island (or Take Island) is the perfect day trip from Nagoya when you want to be around nature and the ocean. The picturesque island, designated as a National Treasure, feels like a...

San Mateo Japanese Garden Visitor’s Guide

The San Mateo Japanese Garden is a hidden gem when it comes to Japanese gardens in the Bay Area. Although small in size, every inch is maximized to include all of the traditional elements typically found in a Japanese garden. If you’re visiting the San Francisco Bay Area or San Mateo, a trip to the Japanese garden in San Mateo– as well as a stroll through...

japanese food displayed in red lacqured boxes

Top 50 Most Popular Japanese Food to Try in Japan

Wondering what to eat in Japan? This list of the top 50 most popular Japanese food should help for your next visit to the Land of the Rising Sun! There are so many delicious foods to try in Japan, but it can be overwhelming if you don’t know what’s what or if the menu isn’t written in English. This Japan food guide will give you the basics of what...

frozen ice at Castle Rock near McMurdo Station, Antarctica

Working in Antarctica: Blaster Garry Rex | Stories From the Ice

Working in Antarctica isn’t always easy, but Garry Rex will tell you it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is worth the adventure. Read on to find out what it’s like to live and work in Antarctica (or as it’s often referred to as “the ice”) and the highs and lows that come with life at the end of the world. Antarctic Program Background The three stations of the...

flatlay of tan button-down shirt, black converse sneakers, and dark blue denim jeans

McMurdo Station Packing List for Working in Antarctica

A general McMurdo Station packing list is essential for anyone going to work in Antarctica for the first time. While everyone’s list will be slightly different depending on your job, this post will cover the basic things you’ll want to bring based on my experience working in McMurdo. Weight and Baggage Allowance Photo: Suhyeon Choi There are two things to keep in...