Author: gabby

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Henry Steiner was a German craftsman who immigrated to the United States in the early 1900s. He settled in the Mt. Hood region of Oregon and began building hand-crafted log cabins using only the resources found on-site. This included felling and peeling logs to use as the frame for each cabin and creating everything else by hand, from the spiral staircases to the custom stick doorknobs, twig coat hooks and natural wood drawer pulls.

Without the aid of electricity or power tools, the Steiners were resourceful and innovative in their construction methods. They were able to create beautiful and durable cabins that have stood the test of time, even through the harsh weather conditions of the Mt. Hood region.

Henry and his sons, John and Fred, built these log cabins from the 1910s to the 1940s, creating a legacy that has lasted for over a century. Their work has been recognized and admired by many, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which has listed several of the Steiners’ cabins on their National Register of Historic Places.

One of the most famous collaboration projects the Steiner Family worked on was the Timberline Lodge, a mountain resort located on the slopes of Mount Hood. The lodge, which was completed in 1937, was designed to blend in with the surrounding environment, and the Steiner’s play a helpful part in its design and building.

The Steiner’s were pioneers of what is now known as the Oregon Rustic Style, which emphasizes the use of natural materials and traditional woodworking techniques to create structures that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. This approach was especially popular in the Pacific Northwest, where the Steiner’s built their cabins.

The Steiners were also skilled in other areas of woodworking, including furniture making and carpentry. They were known for their attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship, qualities that are evident in the cabins they built. You can see examples of their furniture in the Government Camp Museum.

You can check out the cabins up close via a Steiner Cabins Tour organized by the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum and held every August. 

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Packing for an international trip can be overwhelming, especially if it is your first time traveling abroad. There are so many things to consider, from the weather and cultural differences to the length of your stay and the type of activities you will be participating in. However, with a little planning and organization, you can create a packing list that will ensure you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable trip.

It is important to research the destination you will be visiting. This will help you determine what types of clothing and accessories to bring, as well as any necessary medications or travel documents. For example, if you are traveling to a tropical location, you will need to pack lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat. On the other hand, if you are heading to a colder climate, you will need to pack heavier layers and possibly a coat or jacket.

You will want to make a list of all the items you will need for your trip. This can include clothing, toiletries, electronics, and any other personal items. When packing your clothes, try to mix and match items to create multiple outfits without overpacking. It is also a good idea to pack a few extra items in case of emergencies or unexpected weather changes.

When it comes to toiletries, it is important to remember that some items may not be available or may be more expensive at your destination. Consider packing your own shampoo, conditioner, and other essentials, as well as any prescription medications you may need.

Electronics are an essential part of modern travel, so be sure to pack all the necessary chargers and adapters for your phone, laptop, and other devices. It is also a good idea to bring a portable charger or backup battery in case you are unable to access a power outlet.

Here is a helpful checklist:

• Passport: This is the most important item on your list, as you won’t be able to enter most countries without it. Make sure your passport is up to date and has at least six months of validity remaining.
• Visa: Depending on the country you are visiting, you may need to obtain a visa before traveling. Check with the embassy or consulate of your destination to see if a visa is required and how to obtain one.
• Travel documents: This includes any tickets, itineraries, or travel insurance documents you may need. Keep these in a safe place, such as a passport holder or travel wallet, to ensure you have easy access to them during your trip.
• Clothing: Pack a mix of comfortable and stylish clothing, taking into account the weather and cultural norms of your destination. Don’t forget to bring a few layers and a rain jacket in case of unexpected weather.
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes are essential for long days of sightseeing. Consider packing a pair of walking shoes, sandals, and closed-toe shoes.
• Toiletries: Pack all the essentials, such as toothpaste, shampoo, and a microfiber lightweight towel.
• Medications: Don’t forget to bring any necessary prescription medications and a first-aid kit with items such as pain relievers, sleep aids and Band-Aids.
• Electronics: Pack your phone, camera, and any other electronic devices you may need. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries or a charger in case your device runs out of power.
• Charging Cables and Converters. If you’re traveling to a country with different electrical outlets, make sure to bring a converter or adapter for your electronic items.
• Cash and credit cards: Make sure to bring enough cash for emergencies and to exchange for local currency. It’s also a good idea to bring at least one credit card in case you need to make purchases or need to access cash while abroad.
• Important documents: Pack copies of your passport, driver’s license, and any other important documents you may need in case of an emergency. I like to email myself photos of all my important documents including my credit card numbers.

Be sure to bring any necessary travel documents, such as your passport, visas, and travel insurance documents. It is also a good idea to make copies of these documents and leave them with a trusted friend or family member in case of any emergencies.

By following these tips and creating a thorough packing list, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable international trip. Happy travels!

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Netflix has a wide variety of movies that are perfect for watching while traveling. Here are some of the best Netflix movies to help pass the time on your next trip:

1. “Midnight in Paris” – This romantic comedy stars Owen Wilson as a struggling writer who travels to Paris and finds himself transported back in time to the 1920s, where he meets some of the most famous writers and artists of the time period.
2. “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” – This adventure film follows the journey of a timid magazine photo editor (played by Ben Stiller) who embarks on a global journey to find a missing negative from a famous photographer.
3. “Into the Wild” – Based on a true story, this film follows the journey of Christopher McCandless (played by Emile Hirsch) as he travels into the Alaskan wilderness in search of adventure.
4. “The Motorcycle Diaries” – This biographical drama follows the journey of a young Ernesto “Che” Guevara (played by Gael García Bernal) as he travels across South America with his friend Alberto Granado.
5. “The Beach” – This adventure drama stars Leonardo DiCaprio as a young backpacker who travels to Thailand in search of a rumored paradise beach.

Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile, these movies are sure to help pass the time and provide some entertainment during your journey.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Netflix has a vast library of TV shows and movies that are perfect for travel enthusiasts.

Here are five of the best Netflix shows for travel:

1. “Dark Tourist” – This documentary series follows journalist David Farrier as he visits some of the world’s most off-beat and unusual tourist destinations. From nuclear ghost towns to voodoo ceremonies in Haiti, “Dark Tourist” takes you on a journey to the strange and unknown.
2. “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” – Join renowned chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain as he travels the world exploring different cultures and cuisines. In each episode, Bourdain visits a new location and immerses himself in the local food, culture, and history.
3. “The Great Food Truck Race” – This reality TV show follows a group of food truck teams as they compete against each other in a cross-country culinary adventure. From the streets of Los Angeles to the beaches of Florida, “The Great Food Truck Race” takes you on a tasty journey across America.
4. “Chef’s Table” – This critically acclaimed documentary series profiles some of the world’s most renowned chefs, including Massimo Bottura and Francis Mallmann. Each episode takes you behind the scenes of the chef’s restaurant and into their creative process, offering a unique look at the world of fine dining.
5. “Planet Earth” – This stunning nature documentary series takes you on a journey across the globe, exploring the diverse and unique habitats of our planet. From the icy poles to the hottest deserts, “Planet Earth” offers breathtaking views and insights into the natural world.
6. “Emily in Paris” – This hit show, which was created by Darren Star, takes viewers on a tour of the City of Light through the eyes of a young American woman named Emily (played by Lily Collins) who moves to Paris for work. You’ll see some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and get a glimpse of the local culture.
7. “Down to Earth with Zac Efron” – In this show, actor Zac Efron travels the world with wellness expert Darin Olien to explore different cultures and their approaches to health and sustainability. They visit countries such as France, Costa Rica, and Iceland and learn about various traditional practices like Ayurveda, permaculture and hot spring therapy.
8. “Magical Andes” – This documentary series takes viewers on a journey through the Andes mountains, which stretch through seven countries in South America. The show explores the region’s natural beauty, ancient culture, and modern-day challenges.
9. “Somebody Feed Phil” – Host Phil Rosenthal, creator of the hit sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond,” travels the world in search of the best food and the people who make it. From Vietnam to Mexico, Rosenthal immerses himself in the local culture, meets interesting people, and, of course, eats lots of delicious food.
10. “Street Food Asia” – This show dives into the street food culture of different Asian countries including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Philippines. It explores the stories of the vendors and their signature dishes and gives you a taste of the local culture.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, food, or just beautiful sights, these Netflix shows are sure to keep you entertained on your travels.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Traveling is a popular pastime for many people, and there are countless books available that capture the excitement, adventure, and cultural immersion of traveling to new places. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply looking to escape into the world of travel through literature, these four books are must-reads for anyone interested in exploring the globe. I’m going to suggest books that link to Thriftbooks.com because they resell used books which is sustainable and they have great prices on books! You can also look them up at the library, buy an ebook, or shop at a local bookstore.

1. Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail by Cheryl Strayed

This memoir tells the story of Cheryl Strayed’s 1,100 mile solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail. After experiencing a series of personal tragedies, Strayed sets out on this journey as a way to heal and find herself. Along the way, she confronts physical challenges, personal demons, and the kindness of strangers. This book is a heart-wrenching and inspiring tale of resilience and self-discovery.

2. Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure by Sarah Macdonald

In this humorous travelogue, Sarah Macdonald sets out on a journey through India with the goal of discovering the “real” India. From learning about Hinduism and yoga to eating bizarre foods and dealing with the chaos of Indian culture, Macdonald’s journey is both eye-opening and entertaining. This book is a great read for anyone interested in exploring the diversity and complexity of India.

3. Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer

This non-fiction book tells the true story of Chris McCandless, a young man who abandoned his life in the United States to travel and live off the land in Alaska. Krakauer traces McCandless’s journey, which ultimately led to his tragic death in the wilderness. While not a traditional travel book, Into the Wild is a thought-provoking and poignant exploration of the human desire for adventure and independence.

4. Around the World in 80 Days by Jules Verne

This magical tale follows the journey of Santiago, a shepherd boy who sets out in search of his personal legend. Along the way, he encounters a range of obstacles and meets a variety of wise and quirky characters, but ultimately finds his true calling and the treasure he was seeking all along.

5. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

This magical tale follows the journey of Santiago, a shepherd boy who sets out in search of his personal legend. Along the way, he encounters a range of obstacles and meets a variety of wise and quirky characters, but ultimately finds his true calling and the treasure he was seeking all along.

6. “The Motorcycle Diaries” by Che Guevara

This classic travel tale follows the journey of a young Che Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado as they travel across South America on a motorcycle. Along the way, they encounter a range of challenges and experience a range of cultures, ultimately leading Guevara to become the revolutionary leader he is known for today.

7. “Eat, Pray, Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert

In this memoir, Elizabeth Gilbert embarks on a year-long journey of self-discovery and healing as she travels to Italy, India, and Indonesia. Along the way, she experiences a range of cultural and personal challenges, but ultimately finds the happiness and fulfillment she was seeking.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next adventure or simply want to escape into the world of travel, these four books are sure to satisfy your wanderlust. Happy reading!

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

As a blogger, one of the most important aspects of your job is to drive traffic to your blog. Without a steady stream of visitors, your blog is unlikely to succeed. However, getting people to visit your blog can be a challenge, especially if you’re just starting out or if you’re struggling to get your blog off the ground.

Fortunately, there are a few tried and true strategies that you can use to boost your blog traffic. Here are some secrets to boosting blog traffic that can help you get more visitors to your site:

1. Use Social Media to Promote your Blog

Social media platforms like Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are great places to promote your blog and get the word out about your content. By sharing links to your blog posts on social media, you can attract a larger audience and drive more traffic to your site.

2. Invest in SEO

Search engine optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your website so that it appears higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). By making your blog more SEO-friendly, you can improve your chances of ranking higher in search engine results, which can lead to more traffic.

3. Create High-Quality Content

Content is the heart and soul of any blog, and it’s essential to create high-quality content if you want to attract and retain readers. By consistently publishing engaging, informative, and well-written blog posts, you can establish yourself as an authority in your niche and encourage people to visit your blog.

4. Build Relationships with other Bloggers

Networking with other bloggers in your niche can be a great way to boost your blog traffic. By collaborating with other bloggers, you can reach a larger audience and benefit from the traffic that they bring to your site.

5. Use Email Marketing

Email marketing is a powerful way to reach your audience and keep them informed about new blog posts and other updates. By building an email list and sending newsletters to your subscribers, you can drive traffic to your blog and keep readers engaged.

By following these secrets to boosting blog traffic, you can improve the visibility of your blog and attract more visitors to your site. While driving traffic to your blog takes time and effort, the results are well worth it, as a larger audience can lead to greater success for your blog.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

When it comes to travel, there is nothing quite like the thrill of planning and embarking on a new adventure. From exploring new cultures and cuisines to meeting new people and experiencing new things, travel can be a truly transformative experience.

One of the best ways to get inspired for your next trip is through movies. From classic travel films to more recent releases, these movies can help to spark your imagination and get you excited about your next adventure.

Here are some of the best travel movies for inspiration:

1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty – This classic travel film follows the journey of Walter Mitty, a daydreamer who embarks on a wild adventure to find a missing negative from a magazine photo shoot. Along the way, he travels to some of the most beautiful and remote locations in the world, including Iceland, the Himalayas, and Greenland.
2. The Beach – Based on the bestselling novel by Alex Garland, this film follows the journey of a young backpacker who travels to Thailand in search of an idyllic, untouched beach. Along the way, he meets a group of travelers who take him on a journey to an isolated island, where he discovers a hidden community living in a tropical paradise.
3. Eat Pray Love – Based on the bestselling memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, this film follows the journey of a woman who embarks on a year-long journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. She travels to Italy, India, and Indonesia, where she learns to embrace new cultures and find inner peace.
4. Wild – Based on the bestselling memoir by Cheryl Strayed, this film follows the journey of a woman who embarks on a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail in an attempt to find clarity and heal from a traumatic past. Along the way, she encounters a range of challenges and obstacles but ultimately finds strength and resilience through the power of nature.
5. The Bucket List – This heartwarming film follows the journey of two terminally ill men who set out on a road trip to fulfill their bucket list of things to do before they die. Along the way, they visit some of the most breathtaking and iconic locations in the world, including the Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China.

No matter what type of adventure you are seeking, these travel movies are sure to inspire and excite you. So why wait? Start planning your next trip today and let these films serve as the perfect inspiration for your next great adventure.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

As a blogger, you likely understand the importance of having a strong online presence. One key aspect of building that presence is through search engine optimization, or SEO. SEO is the practice of optimizing your website and content so that it ranks higher in search engine results, resulting in more traffic and potential readers for your blog.

But with so many different SEO strategies and tactics out there, it can be overwhelming to figure out what works and what doesn’t. Here are a few SEO secrets that can help ensure your blog’s success:

1. Use keywords strategically. Keywords are the words and phrases that people use to search for content online. By including these keywords in your blog titles, headings, and throughout your content, you increase the chances that your blog will rank higher in search results. However, it’s important to use keywords sparingly and naturally. Overusing them, or using them in a way that feels forced, can actually hurt your ranking.
2. Optimize your website’s technical elements. In addition to the content on your website, search engines also look at the technical aspects of your website. This includes things like the website’s loading speed, mobile-friendliness, and the presence of a sitemap. I decided to limit blog posts to no more than 10 photos to optimize the loading speed per page. By making sure these technical elements are in order, you improve your chances of ranking higher in search results.
3. Use internal and external links. Links, both internal and external, help improve your website’s credibility and authority in the eyes of search engines. By linking to other reputable websites within your content, you show that your content is well-researched and reliable. Similarly, by linking to your own related content within your blog, you show search engines that your website has a lot of valuable content for readers. Make sure all your posts have a way to navigate back to the home page, or to the next related article you want them to read!
4. Use social media to your advantage. While social media and SEO may seem unrelated, they actually go hand in hand. By sharing your blog posts on social media platforms, you can drive more traffic to your website and improve your search rankings. Additionally, search engines often factor in the number of social media followers and engagement a website has when determining its ranking. When you make a new blog posting the reach is minimal 1-3 people may find it over a year’s time. This should tell you the power of Social Media… to get readers, you need to be sharing your content on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, or whatever other sites you choose to connect with where users are. I highly recommend Pinterest. Your content posted there (via a pin) will continually drive traffic to your blog for years!
5. Focus on creating high-quality content posted frequently. Above all, the most important factor in successful SEO is having high-quality content that is valuable to your readers. By consistently publishing well-written, informative, and engaging content, you will naturally attract more traffic and improve your search rankings. The search algorithms track your posting frequency, the more consistent you are, the more it will trust and push your content!
6. Use Alt. Text in your images to add in just a tad more Keywords for that SEO algorithm. The alt text is used for assisted reading and is a great extra hidden place to add in more key text.

Implementing these SEO secrets can help ensure that your blog stands out in search results and attracts the readership it deserves. By putting in the effort to optimize your website and content, you can build a strong online presence and achieve success as a blogger.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Working as an English teacher in Hong Kong can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Hong Kong is a vibrant, international city with a high demand for English teachers, making it an ideal destination for those looking to work in education abroad.

One of the biggest benefits of teaching English in Hong Kong is the opportunity to experience a unique and diverse culture. With a mix of Chinese and Western influences, Hong Kong offers a unique blend of traditional and modern elements that can be experienced through its food, customs, and daily life.

Another advantage of teaching in Hong Kong is the high demand for English education. Many students in Hong Kong are highly motivated to learn English and are willing to put in the effort to improve their skills. This can make for a challenging, but ultimately rewarding, teaching experience.

If your looking for more resources or jobs check out: Teach Away

One thing to consider when teaching in Hong Kong is the high cost of living. While salaries for English teachers are generally higher than in other countries, the cost of living in Hong Kong is also higher. This can be offset by the fact that many schools offer housing and other benefits to their teachers. I started off making 19,500 HKD per month and withing a month was bumped to 22,000 HKD, turn over is high and people get very home sick, which makes companies want to pay you well to stay. I had my own 3 room apartment in Jordan, Kowloon for 6,000 HKD per month. I could have shared with a roomate and paid less but I wanted my own place.

Working as an English teacher in Hong Kong also requires a certain level of adaptability and flexibility. With a busy and fast-paced culture, it is important to be able to adapt to new situations and challenges that may arise. This can include working with different age groups, teaching different levels of English, and adapting to different teaching styles.

Working as an English teacher in Hong Kong can be a challenging but fulfilling experience. With its diverse culture, high demand for English education, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, Hong Kong is an excellent place for those looking to work in education abroad.

Keep Travel Funky.

Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

The thought of teaching abroad may have crossed your mind. Whether it’s to see the world, experience new cultures, or simply for the love of teaching, there are many reasons to consider teaching abroad. However, before you start packing your bags and booking a flight, it’s important to make sure you have the right qualifications.

One of the most common qualifications for teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) abroad is a Tesol (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or Tefl (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certification. These certifications are internationally recognized and demonstrate to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills to teach English effectively to non-native speakers.

But how do you go about getting your Tesol/Tefl certification?

Here are some steps to follow:

1. Research different Tesol/Tefl programs: There are many different programs and courses available, so it’s important to do your research and find one that is accredited and meets your needs. Consider factors such as cost, duration, and location. Some programs may be online or in-person, so consider which option would be most convenient for you. I used Oxford Seminars and did an in-person class it was amazing to ask someone who actually taught abroad a ton of specific questions.
2. Prepare for the course: Depending on the program you choose, you may need to complete coursework, attend lectures, or complete online assignments. Make sure you’re prepared to put in the time and effort to complete the course successfully. I gave up 6 full weekends to study and take my classes. I had no life for 6 weeks, but it was so worth it.
3. Take the course: Once you’ve enrolled in a Tesol/Tefl program, it’s time to get started. This may involve completing coursework, attending lectures, or participating in online discussions. Make sure you stay on top of your assignments and engage with the material to get the most out of the course. Ask all the questions you can, don’t be shy! I had a million questions for my teacher and she helped give us all a great picture into a teach-abroad life that helped us transition easily.
4. Complete any additional requirements: Some programs may have additional requirements, such as teaching practice or a language proficiency test. Make sure you understand what’s expected of you and complete any additional requirements in a timely manner. I had to teach a mock lesson in front of the class. I was so nervous!
5. Obtain your certificate: Once you’ve successfully completed the Tesol/Tefl course and any additional requirements, you’ll receive your certificate. This is an important document that will be required by many employers when applying for teaching positions abroad. Make a digital copy because your future employer will ask for it.

While getting your Tesol/Tefl certification can be a lot of work, it’s a crucial step in achieving your goal of teaching abroad. With the right qualifications, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on an exciting and rewarding journey as an English language teacher.

After you have your certificate check out job boards and join teaching abroad facebook groups. I found Dave’s ESL Cafe to be great for job hunting. Good Luck!

Keep Travel Funky.