Tips, Information, and Stories for Adventures Around the World

Travel Tips: Time Management

Written on the high speed train from Barcelona to Paris: Time management is incredibly important when traveling, especially when traveling internationally by yourself, as I do. Departure Times This is a gimme. I’ve never missed any big transportation times. I blew past one soft deadline (meet here before dinner), but luckily, there was someone waiting to lead me to the the restaurant. It’s important to verify a specific meeting time to ensure everyone is on Read more…

By Justin Sundberg, ago

Swing into Spain

I went to Swing Maniacs Barcelona last night. It was different…. Turns out, Spanish swing is actually Lindy Hop…. I was busy exploring Barcelona until after the beginner lesson, but I caught the advanced lesson. I think I might want to take a LH class. Maybe. But since I couldn’t lead Lindy, I just taught single step American Swing. Compared to Lindy Hop, it’s incredibly simple. Rock step is “rock step” in Spanish, too, so Read more…

By Justin Sundberg, ago

The Parisians

I’ve heard stories from several people in the United States about “the rude shopkeepers in Paris.” These stories confuse me. Of course, everyone knows I’m truly enchanted with the city, the history, the language, and the people. I think Americans should try not being gruff and grouchy. Be friendly. They probably know about the area better than you. Ask what food they recommend. I’ll tell you just one story during my first night in Paris Read more…

By Justin Sundberg, ago

How My First Time Met All of My Expectations (Flying Coach)

I had my first trans-Atlantic coach experience. There was infrequent service, cramped seats, and constant peripheral movement. To prefect the experience, there was a baby crying, likely until a flight attendant gave the parent a complimentary half shot of whiskey, or so I assume. This is why the tickets up front are $7,000 more. The complimentary boarding drink  (usually a memosa), the constant hot food, beverages, and whatever you want from or off the menu, Read more…

By Justin Sundberg, ago

Parisian Goal

When I go to Paris, I’m going to be sure to find my photogenic artist. This time, I’m going to look at his work. Eventually, I’m going to get a picture from him. That’s my goal. My immediate goal is to get another good picture.

By Justin Sundberg, ago

Under the Bridges of Paris

After checking in, I decided to go to my favorite place, the Seine River. Naturally, I would love to waltz under the bridges of Paris, so I set out on my adventure to find a waltz! (Those of you who are not familiar, there is a waltz called Under the Bridges of Paris. It’s one of my favorite waltzes, but it’s never played at any ballroom dances because it is short and too slow for Read more…

By Justin Sundberg, ago

Smart Travel: Metro

Most city metro systems are pretty awesome. I even took the Blue Line to MSP. But the TC are nowhere near some cities (which is fine because it’s not nearly as big and doesn’t have awesome historic sites, Le Tour Eiffel). However, there is one absolutely necessary thing needed when using and light rail. I use hand sanitizer whenever I’m leaving a rail station, once I’m done touching things. Now I’m not the most germaphobic Read more…

By Justin Sundberg, ago

Oh So French (probably part one of many)

I’m in a cafe, and I dropped my fork. I put it on the table crooked: The waiter, after taking an order right behind me, nonchalantly and probably out of habit, just quickly straightened the fork and flipped it upright. He didn’t even slow down his very fast pace. It was very French. On the other hand, he was patient when I ordered in French. Also, I ordered a fresh squeezed lemon juice. It was Read more…

By Justin Sundberg, ago