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nattikay · 3 years

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So I saw this post while browsing toa tags the other day. While I don’t think being obsessed with the school mascot automatically makes Toby a furry (though it is funny to joke about lol) since “being a furry” actually just means “being a fan of anthropomorphic animals” and doesn’t necessarily require any form of costuming or interest in such, it did get me thinking, hmmm...if he was a furry, what would his fursona be? 🤔 And from there I started wondering what Jim’s and Claire’s would be as well because y not ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

BUT WAIT, I hear you say--haven’t you already drawn the trio as werewolves and wolfwalkers etc.? Wouldn’t those be their fursonas??

Well yes....but actually no.

I guess it’s a little hard to explain, but there’s a nuance between “[person] but as an animal” and a proper “fursona”. While a fursona is an animal character used to represent its person, it doesn’t have to physically resemble them at all as you would expect [person]-but-as-[animal] to. For example, if you were to design me but as a cat, you’d probably give it light brown fur and green eyes like I have irl. But my fursona, unlike my human self, actually has blue fur and purple eyes. You can give your fursona matching physical traits to your own if you want to, and some people do, but most use only a pinch of their irl appearance, if any at all.

The choices people make when designing their fursonas vary wildly from “it looks like me irl” to “it looks like who I want to be” to “I just really like this color scheme” to “this particular color/marking holds deep personal meaning to me” to “this particular pattern represents a particular defining moment in my life” to “idk it looks cool and i vibe with it” etc. etc. etc. Everyone has different reasons of varying depth for the decisions they make in designing their fursona.

Therefore, to design a fursona for Toby etc., it’s less a question of “what would this character look like as [insert species here]?” and more of “how would this character choose to present himself with his own [animal] character?”

And that’s a much trickier game than just transferring a character aesthetic to a new species. ^^; We have to kinda dive into the characters and makes some guesses about how they, if given infinite creative freedom to design an animal avatar with no rules or limits, would choose to present themselves.

So all that said, here’s what I came up with:

Starting with Toby because he’s the one who inspired the post. I think Toby might choose a wolfdog fursona. A lot of people who choose wolves as fursonas consider themselves to be overwhelmingly loyal to their friends, a trait that fits Toby very well. However, while Toby likes to be “cool”, I don’t think he really thinks of himself as much of an “alpha” type--he’s more of a sidekick, and he knows that, and he’s ok with that. He’s the wingman. So what better way to incorporate that than to add dog into the mix? Man’s best friend=Jim’s best friend. Sociable, humorous, and unwaveringly loyal. Wolfdog it is!

With the species decided, we can move on to the design itself.

I can’t imagine any form of Toby in anything other than warm colors. This is extra emphasized by the flamelike patterns on his legs and tail, which both speaks to his desire to be totally awesome-sauce as well as acts as an allusion to his flaming warhammer. It’s fairly common (not universal, but common) for people to give their fursonas a more “ideal” physique than the person actually has as a sort of way to live by proxy physical goals or fantasies they’ve been unable to attain irl for whatever reason. Given that we’ve seen Toby struggle with fitness from time to time, it wouldn’t shock me to see him take this route. His wolfdog self is still relatively short and stocky, but it’s all muscle, babey.

This fursona is strong, fun, boisterous, and generally just kicks butt. Concentrated awesomesauce flows through his veins. Just don't mess with his friends, or you’ll feel the flames!

Moving on to Jim. Jim was the hardest to nail down, and most definitely the hardest to keep my personal biases out of oof. Which I may have failed to do anways because yes, ok, I made my favorite character a blue feline, sue me ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ But hear me out first!

For Jim I ultimately settling on a cheetah/lion hybrid.

Cheetahs, in a way, are sort of the underdogs (er...cats?) of the feline world--at least, in their local ecosystems. They are built wholly for speed, not strength--and as such, just about every other large predator in their environment has them beat when it comes to raw strength. Remind you of a certain Trollhunter? plus the long lanky legs. don’t forget those lol

However, because of this disadvantage, cheetahs...usually surrender. They know it’s not worth it to defend their kill from larger, stronger opponents, so they’ll give it up and just catch something else. This aspect doesn’t quite fit our protective, selfless protagonist all too eager to risk everything to save his loved ones--so a pure cheetah may not be the right choice.

So what animal is brave and protective? That’s where the lion part comes in, of course!

Why not just make him a pure lion? Well, a little similar to making Toby a wolfdog instead of a pure wolf. A straight-up lion feels a little too “chad” for our sweet Jimbo. Too much of a jock.

Jim has the humble underdog nature of a cheetah as well as the bravery and fierce protective drive of a lion. Cheelion? Leetah? idk, but let’s design it!

Like Toby and warm colors, I don’t think I can possibly associate Jim with any color but blue. While it’s never directly stated, given that we’ve never really seen him wear any other color (with the exception of the Eclipse armor), I think it’s pretty safe to assume that that’s his favorite. Blue sweater, blue jeans, blue shoes, even his backpack and bedsheets are blue. So naturally, his fursona would be predominantly blue as well! Plus some yellowish accents to (somewhat) match the natural colors of his chosen species(s).

I imagine he originally designed the character without horns, but then added them after becoming the Trollhunter, since it became such a major and impactful aspect of his life.

His lion’s mane also continues down his back in imitation of the “mantle” found on baby cheetahs. This youthful feature could subtly represent the fact that he’s been forced to grow up too fast and take on so much responsibility so young--so his fursona can still be young and carefree as long as he likes even while his real self struggles with the weight of the world on his shoulders.

This fursona is relaxed, calm, and confident. He’s not just cool--he’s crispy!

Lastly but not leastly, we have Claire. Out of the three, I think Claire was actually the easiest to choose--or at least, I had the clearest idea of what I thought she might go for.

Claire is a bit of an interesting duck, because while she’s shown to be fairly popular at school, she’s definitely far from the stereotype of The Popular Girl™. Yes she’s smart and pretty, but she’s also a little spunky or even a bit quirky--she’s a theatre kid, she’s a huge fan of hard rock band Papa Skull, and while I wouldn’t quite call her “rebellious” per se, she’s certainly willing to bend some rules if she feels the situation calls for it (not telling her parents that she was going to the concert with Steve, literally sneaking into Jim’s basement to try to find out what was up with him, etc).

That said, I think Claire might go for a hyena fursona--something a little out of the box, but not totally out of left field. (she also shows a slight Gurl Power™ streak here and there “the staff was not meant to be wielded by man--” “I am not a man!!!”) and if you know anything about hyenas...well, yeah lol)

I think Claire would lean into her punk-rock “rebellious” side with her fursona design. This character is completely free of the pressure of being the councilwoman’s daughter and having to maintain her mother’s public reputation, and thus allows Claire to express a less restrained side of herself. She has a bold semi-edgy color scheme with bright accents (and some earrings to match her person’s hair clips) while still remaining feminine and (her own brand of) fashionable.

This fursona is spunky and sassy; she’s spicy and sweet all rolled up into one. She knows what she wants and she’s not afraid to chase it down. She lives her own life and she’s dang proud of it.

....sooooo yeah there’s my take on what Toby’s, Jim’s, and Claire’s fursonas could hypothetically be. And I guess since this post was inspired by a joke about Toby’s infatuation with the school mascot, here’s just some quick thoughts on how they might approach fursuiting to end us off:

Jim I don’t see as much of a suiter. He might try it once or twice if given the opportunity, but at the end of the day it’s not really his cup of tea--he’d rather act as the “handler” for his friends, if anything.

Toby and Claire, on the other hand, I could definitely see as suiters. In fact, with her interest in acting, Claire would probably particularly enjoy it--she’d be one of those suiters who really gets into character, absolutely refuses to break the magic publicly (outside of any actual medical emergency), and popular at cons because she just performs so well.

Toby, meanwhile, would be the more chill type--uses his normal voice in-suit, isn’t really too stressed about “breaking the magic”, just kinda hanging around like he would normally except “look I’m a talking dog, cool right?”.

also while I was typing this it occurred to be that since Eli is canonically a cosplayer then he could be a fursuiter as well; in his case i imagine he actually made his own suit it’s a protogen and it’s full of little LEDs and other electric gadgets, it’s not the prettiest thing ever as sewing is not his forte but boy did he try!! good for him. good for him

#so anyways I put way too much thought into this...enjoy I guess?#trollhunters #tales of arcadia #toby domzalski #jim lake jr #claire nuñez #furry #my art

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blumenwrites · 6 years

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Day Four: Grace (Free Day)

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So I didn’t have anything prepared for today so I decided to upload a snippet from a fic I’ve been working on instead so hope y’all enjoy

Contains: escort! Yuuri, retired! Viktor,and awkward first dates, and divergent canon *****warnings for references to anxiety and depression******

The smell of the city washed over Viktor, even the rubbish and dampness being a refreshing change from his unwashed laundry. Car alarms blared and the rush of passing buses made the long fabric of his coat flare like the plastic bags sailing across the grey streets. He should have taken Makkachin with him; he was far behind on his walkies after all. It might also be nice as an ice breaker but if he went to get Makka now he'd be late (even then, most places had a no dog policy.

It didn't take too long to reach the restaurant, thankfully. Viktor, despite the aching in his legs, walked briskly, whether out of nerves or a strong desire to get this over with he didn't know. But he made it with five minutes to spare. He searched the space of the restaurant, feeling rather like a new kid at school looking for a safe table to sit at. What if he doesn't show up because he's knows how socially inept I've become? Viktor's brain unhelpfully interrupted but before he could follow that train of thought a man waved him over. From far away he was fairly nondescript but as Viktor walked closer, chest inexplicably tight, more details became apparent. He was slightly above medium height, dressed fairly plainly but nicely with a well-fitting dress shirt and straight, black trousers. He had a kind face with soft lines and contours, the kind that belongs in children's books, warm and welcoming. His eyes were inviting, a deep brown that reminded Viktor of chocolate cake scoffed down during childhood whilst his mums weren't looking. He had a soft, rounded figure and the warm smile he gave Viktor indicated he probably gave good hugs. The man had a understated type of beauty, not immediately obvious but present in the way the restaurant lights illuminated his eyes to a warm, melting honey hue and the natural rosiness of his cheeks the colour of rose tea. Were Viktor younger, he'd swish his fringe and flirt, probably say something silly that would earn him a flustered giggle. But Viktor wasn't young any more and he had about as much charm as a dead fish in his current mental state. He forced a smile and met the other man's gaze head on.

“Hi, I'm Yuuri,” he greeted with a disarming smile. How did this man go anywhere without people falling over him?

“I'm Viktor but I suppose Chris already told you that,” Viktor replied and immediately winced at how miserable he sounded. Man of the Year two years in a row and three official Playboy titles. Amazing.

“He did but still, good to know,” he smiled with such a natural charm that Viktor was almost jealous. He had to endure training by special publicity agents and a disgruntled Yakov before he properly learned how to construe his face into the right expression for the public. “...Are you going to take a seat?”

“Yes, yes, sorry, sitting down,” Viktor mumbled, sitting down and placing his hands stiffly in his lap. Be sociable.

Yuuri was wholesome. They had exchanged five entire lines of dialogue but Viktor could already tell. The pockets of his jeans revealed he carried tissues and even when he wasn't smiling his eyes sparkled. He shouldn't be bothering Yuuri with his presence; he refused to drag Yuuri down with him. Just smile and nod.

“So, do you have a job?” Yuuri asked.

“I work as a translator,” the lie poured out as smooth as butter. “It's mostly news articles into Russian.”

“Oh, cool. I take it you were born there then?”

“Yeah,” Viktor's heart clenched at the thought of home. He rang his mothers fortnightly but it felt like a decade since he had any meaningful interaction with them. “I moved here permanently two years ago.”

The waiter came over and asked for their drink orders which they quickly relayed. Yuuri chose a light drink whilst Viktor just went with whatever had the highest percentage of alcohol. Their drinks were promptly delivered along with their menus. Viktor restrained himself and forced himself not to just knock it down, taking timid sips. It helped ease his nerves and had him better prepared for their following conversation.

“What were we talking about? Oh yeah, immigrating. Yeah, I've only been here for a year myself,” Yuuri admitted, looking sheepish. “But I spent college in America so I didn't worry about having to learn English.”

“What did you major in?”

“Psychology, specialising in relationships and family. It's been surprisingly useful, though not in the way I think my professors intended.”

Viktor quirked an eyebrow.

“How so?”

“Ah, it's rude to talk about my other patrons when I'm supposed to be talking about you.”

The waiter interrupted them asking if they were ready to order. They quickly relayed their choices, both ignoring the starters and ordering their main dishes.

“I don't mind. As long as you're comfortable talking about it?”

“No, I'm fine with it. Quite a lot of my customers are quite lonely and I've become somewhat of a therapist.”

Viktor frowned. The few times he had to be a shoulder to cry on at best he had felt uncomfortable and at worst he had felt his intestines twist with crushing responsibility and being utterly useless.

“Isn't that...really exhausting?”

“Not really. I like being able to help, even if it is just making sure someone's not alone for a night.”

“Wow. I'd find that way too emotionally taxing.”

“Oh, yeah, it can definitely be a lot. At first it got a bit overwhelming but with my regulars it feels like helping out a friend. Obviously it differs from normal friendship but I know far too much about them to just be an acquaintance. I do get a paternal feeling for some of my customers I suppose, so that makes it easier to help out.”

“Doesn't a paternal feeling get a bit weird when you have to sleep with them?”

Oh my god, Viktor, shut up shut up shut up!!!!

“Ah, I don't sleep with my clients. I know that most escorts offer sexual services but it's not something that I'm personally comfortable with-not that I'm judging people who do! They're free to do with their bodies what they want to, it's just not the kind of service I give.”

“And what service is that?”

“Well, normally it's acting as someone's boyfriend. But a lot of times I'm someone to tell your infidelities to and then never have to see them again. I provide whatever role they want from me.”

“What role are you for me tonight then?”

Yuuri paused, thinking.

“A friend. Chris told me you had been feeling down.”

Viktor shifted.

“I don't really want to talk about it.”

“That's fine. Sorry for bringing it up.”

They were silent for a moment. Viktor returned to his drink, the alcohol burning his throat. And then, like the Prince Charming that he was, he spilled it all over his suit. Yuuri yelped, quickly grabbing napkins and floundering over to his side to soak up the damage but Viktor only laughed. I didn't particularly like this suit anyway, Viktor thought. Didn't even iron it tonight.

“It's fine,” Viktor reassuring, waving Yuuri away. “It was my own fault.”

“Are you sure?” Yuuri asked. “It looks expensive.”

Viktor hid a smile behind his hand.

“It's really fine. I can't believe what an idiot I am.”

“Once I was on a date and I was so nervous that I accidentally spilled scalding soup over my crotch-” Viktor hissed in sympathy, “-and then left because I was so embarrassed. Unsurprisingly, I never got a second date so really it could be worse.”

They had dried him up as much as they could with napkins. Viktor's suit clung to him awkwardly but it wasn't too uncomfortable.

“I can't imagine you doing something like that.”

“I used to be a very nervous person so really, that was one of my better moments.”

Viktor scrutinized him. His posture was straight but relaxed, limbs free of tension. Viktor couldn't imagine him ever being anxious.

“What about you, Viktor?”

Viktor liked the way Yuuri said his name, as if it was a fancy brand of wine.

“What about me?”

“What was the worst thing you've ever done on a date?”

He told me he loved me and I had a panic attack immediately followed by me sobbing so hard that someone called the police because they thought he was abusing me. But that didn't quite suit the tone so Viktor racked his memories for something else.

“So, it wasn't quite a date but it was very embarrassing. My somewhat-of-a-boyfriend at the time's parents had a very strict bedroom door open policy. But of course we found our way around it and his dad decided to come in at a very inconvenient time. We were on the sofa and there was the toilet door really close by so when he knocked I pretty much flew into the bathroom. Since there was no bin I decided to flush the condom down the toilet. Long story short when his parents tried to figure out why the toilet was blocked I was never allowed to come back to their house again.” Sorry, Chris.

Yuuri, bless him, actually blushed.

“Oh my god, I would have died!”

“Yup, fair to say it was pretty mortifying. I still cringe when I think about his mother saying 'at least you used protection.'”

Yuuri's laugh was a glorious, tinkling sound that Viktor wanted to capture and hold. He couldn't help but laugh along, the stretching of his cheeks feeling alien and strange. He hadn't realized how long it had been since he had properly laughed. He didn't want it to end.

#my writing #yoiprideweek #victuri #victuuri #vikturi #viktuuri #fic #ficlet #fanfiction #fanfic #yoi #yuri on ice #yuri!!! on ice #au

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bigjohnsadventuresintravel · 7 years

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Rebecca and the Not-So-Nice Pirates of Nice, France

Only a few of my closest friends and family know the story of how I met my lovely wife, Rebecca. Yet, even to this day, the circumstances surrounding the event are a source of both anxiety and great joy for me. My state-appointed therapist suggested that I attempt to express myself more openly and stop bottling so many things inside. So, if I ever hope to be freed from this padded cell that confines me, I need to start doing more of what my therapist says.

It all began here. No, not here at the Palmetto State Mental Hospital for the Criminally Insane. It all began 3 kilometers west of Nice, in the picturesque seaside community of Villefranche-sur-Mer. The amazing landscape of this charming fishing village has inspired many artists throughout the years to apply their paints to canvas. Set against a peaceful waterfront with colorful houses, open markets, and cobblestone streets, this is just the sort of place a fellow might want to unpack his suitcase and stay awhile. Having arrived there by cruise ship, I had only the luxury of staying in town for a single day. Considering my limited time , I vowed to make the most out of my brief visit to this French coastal paradise.

The Bay of Villefranche-sur Mer

All just seemed so perfect that morning I stepped off the dock and set foot into town. The weather was warm but not stifling hot. The salty air had a pleasant breeze , but far from windy. All in all, things were very nice here. I arrived in town just after breakfast so I could get an early start on things. It was my first time in the French Riviera and I intended on exploring every nook and cranny of this particular place before calling it a day.

Big John snaps a photograph of this picturesque fishing village.

Now don’t go getting ahead of yourself here. By “exploring”, I meant taking in some of the local points of interest, relaxing, maybe even downing a few beers while chatting it up with the locals. Suprisingly, very few of the locals were out and about. Maybe the French just enjoyed sleeping in on Saturdays but it seemed such a waste not to enjoy the beautiful morning scenery. The few people I did see appeared friendly enough and I was feeling pretty sociable. Although I didn’t speak any French, I figured that if I talked loud enough and slow enough, they would catch the gist of whatever I was trying to say – Je ne comprends pas.

Villefranche-sur-Mer boasts one of the deepest natural harbors in the entire Mediterranean.

I don’t know if it was just this place in particular or if I had simply woken up on the right side of the bed. All I know is that this was one of those days where life just felt good and I wanted to be a part of it all. I began my leisurely stroll towards the small square in the Old Town. I hadn’t ventured far before I came across a quaint centuries-old chapel that caught my eye. Just briefly I considered going inside and exploring the belltower; but then realized I didn’t have enough Euro on hand to cover the small admissions fee. If there was one lesson I learned while on a cruise ship it was this: Never play bingo in a room full of blue-haired old ladies. They may act real sweet but they have no qualms about bleeding you dry!

Early morning yoga on the French Riviera

Moving on, I began climbing the terraced streets and passed people setting up in the open market along the way. After obtaining a vantage point high above the harbor, I gazed below and spotted several other people in a park practicing yoga. So this was where all the townfolks were hiding out! I would’ve loved to have joined them but I’m not all that flexible. Also, I left my stretchy pants at home. No worries, I was pretty content just admiring the view from afar. It wasn’t long before I came upon a bench in which to sit and rest my weary feet. It’s really quite strange but as I was relaxing there I must have closed my eyes and drifted off for a spell.

Cobblestone streets give this French town a medieval sort of appeal.

I don’t know how long I was out but it must have been awhile. When I awoke I was wearing pigeon poop on my shoes and the yoga attendees had all picked up their mats and left the park.

The terraced streets of Villefranche.

With the sun rising high in the Mediterranean sky, people emerged from their homes and the community appeared to come alive. The mood in this entire town was festive and light. The citizens were smiling and laughing. The birds were chirping and singing. I nearly expected a bluebird to land squarely on my shoulder. It was one of those zippety-doo-dah sort of days!

A poster advertising the upcoming celebration of America’s Independence Day in Villefranche.

Adding to my delight, I even came across a poster advertising an upcoming American-Independence Day festival. I guess these French people still possess a bit of gratitude for us Yankees for all those years ago in Normandy. It seemed as if folks were just looking for reasons to celebrate… and I really like those sort of folks!

Another gorgeous view of the harbor.

Stopping momentarily to take in another gorgeous view of the harbor, I detected a brief chill in the air. The chill was accompanied by a blanket of dark, ominous clouds that suddenly rolled in and cast a shadow over the entire town. In that brief moment, the entire mood of the place darkened. I shuddered as the somber feelings passed over me. The moment was but a fleeting one. As the clouds quickly blew past, the sun reappeared and smiled down upon me. The warm rays comforted me as I continued along in my leisure exploration of the area.

Signs of pirates could be found throughout the village.

Everybody has used that common expression, “things are just too good to be true!” This term expresses the skeptical view that something so seemingly fine must have something deeply wrong with it. As life has shown us time and time again, that skeptical viewpoint is often found to be correct. So what was the “something deeply wrong” about Villefranche-sur-Mer that made things just too good to be true? Well, in one simple word – Pirates!

Of course the signs were all subtle – a movie poster, a hotel advertisement, an old guy I passed wearing an eye patch and velcro shoes. It was little things that the common man would simply disregard. However for me, a brilliant detective, crimefighter, and international man of mystery, I knew that these were all hidden messages to alert outsiders that the town had come under seige.

The hotel La Fiancee du Pirate overlooks the Bay of Villifranche between Nice and Monaco.

Confirming my suspicions, I spied a sinister looking frigate anchored just outside the mouth of the harbor.

The Citadel St. Elmo of Villefranche-sur-Mer

If there really were dangerous pirates lurking about, threatening the safety of this tranquil village, then I needed answers fast. In Villefranche-sur-Mer, there’s no better place to find answers than at the Citadel St. Elmo. Upon my arrival at the citadel, I found its courtyard surprisingly empty. I was reserved to checking elsewhere when I overheard the sound of crying coming from an upstairs room. I climbed the stairs, entered the room and found the sobbing governor slumped over at his desk. Upon discovering me standing there, the governor must have sensed that I was indeed a man of action. “Thank God!”, he exclaimed between sniffles. “You must be the answer to my prayers”.

“Sir, I don’t know if I am your answer.”, I replied. I don’t know what exactly is going on around here; but, if I were a betting man I’d wager it all that it’s got something to do with… pirates!”

At the sound of “pirates”, the overwrought governor let out a howl and began crying even louder. Feeling rather uncomfortable, and franky embarrased at witnessing a grown man carrying on in such a fashion , I prodded the governor to explain things further.

The governor went on to explain about his daughter, Rebecca, whom he feared had been captured by Captain Pierre Le Black and his band of cutthroat pirates just a few hours ago. “It was around 7 o’clock this morning when Rebecca set out on her daily morning jog up into the surrounding hillside.”, the governor stated. “When a couple of hours had past and Rebecca still hadn’t shown up to her job as the town’s Lead Anchor-chain Inspector, I just knew something was amiss. Around noon, I was preparing to send one of my assistants up into the hills to search for her when a mysterious man appeared at the citadel and handed me a sealed letter…”

“Wait!”, I interrupted. “Was the man wearing an eye patch?”

“Yes!”, replied the governor.

“…and was he wearing plaid shorts, tall black socks, and white velcro shoes?”, I inquired.

“No, you’re thinking about one-eyed Frank who stays at the retirement home on the edge of town.”, explained the governor. “He lost his eye during a tragic shuffleboard accident aboard a Carnival Cruiseline. The person I was referring to was a much younger guy wearing pants and black muddy boots”.

“Sorry, please continue.”, I said.

“So this guy hands me a letter stating that the dastardly pirate, Captain Pierre Le Black, has seized Fort Mont Alban. Furthermore, he and his crew have taken my own poor daughter prisoner and are holding her as ransom inside. They refuse to release her unless I agree to pay them my entire prized chest of Spanish gold!”

Ransom letter delivered by pirates to the governor of Nice, France.

“How do you know they actually have your daughter?”, I asked.

“Because in addition to the letter, the mysterious man also handed me her iPhone.”, replied the governor. “Trust me! She would never willingly part ways with that silly device. And if that weren’t proof enough, just look at the cover photo set to her Facebook page!”

Rebecca’s recovered iPhone offering proof of her capture.

The photo sent to Rebecca’s Facebook page offering proof of her captivity.

The governor handed me the iPhone revealing a slender brown-haired girl wearing dark shorts and a pink shirt. She was standing near the massive doors of a fortress. She looked awfully scared and her hands were bound together in heavy chains.

“That’s terrible!”, I exclaimed. “They sound like scoundrels of the worst kind and it looks like they mean business! I’m sorry that you have to give up all your gold but at least you’ll have your daughter back.”

“Give up my gold?”, shouted the governor. “Who said anything about giving up my gold? Why, I couldn’t bear living if I ever lost all of my precious treasure!”

The governor’s chest of Spanish Gold (formerly the property of the French navy after seizing it from pirates who seized it from Spain).

“Why not petition the navy for assistance or even go to the local police?”, I inquired.

“Because I can’t!”, replied the governor. “Somehow the navy got this crazy idea their gold was pilfered from their ship by bandits and stowed away inside the Rock of Gibraltar. They’ve set sail a week ago heading straight for the rock. Believe me, I was quite surpised myself to find that chest hidden safely under my bed right here at the citadel. Yet, there’s no disputing the gold clearly belongs to me now. There’s a universal law concerning lost treasure around here –finders keepers, losers weepers.”

“…and the police?”, I asked. “Did not the police swear an oath to protect and serve the citizens of Villefranche? Why don’t you go to them for assistance?”

The governor seemed to grow frustrated with my line of questioning. “Man, don’t you think I considered doing just that?”, he replied. “Unfortunately, the police around here are in no position to do battle with a gang of notorious, blood-thirsty pirates. Last week I declared this entire area a gun-free zone. It wouldn’t have been politically correct to allow the police to keep their firearms while everybody else was giving theirs up for the greater good. Without guns, any response by law-enforcement would end in certain disaster. My police officers aren’t exactly skilled at swordplay and these pirates are all armed to the teeth with razor sharp cutlasses.”

I scrolled through the iPhone searching for any additional clues concerning the abducted girl. As I examined the various photographs of the governor’s daughter, I was quite smitten by her beauty and I wanted so desperately to help.

Rebecca takes a breather during her daily morning jog.

Gazing at each picture I tried to place myself in her shoes. What was she now thinking in her current predicament? Had she given up all hope?

Rebecca fills her bottle with refreshing springwater shortly before her capture.

I imagined her locked away with all those ruffians, worried that there was nobody out there willing to risk their life to save her. I imagined her asking the question:

Where have all the good men gone And where are all the gods? Where’s the streetwise Hercules to fight the rising odds? Isn’t there a white knight upon a fiery steed? Late at night I toss and I turn And I dream of what I need

Rebecca posing in front of the citadel gate in happier times.

I imagined her thinking:

I need a hero. I’m holding out for a hero ’til the end of the night He’s gotta be strong And he’s gotta be fast And he’s gotta be fresh from the fight I need a hero I’m holding out for a hero ’til the morning light He’s gotta be sure And it’s gotta be soon And he’s gotta be larger than life! Larger than life…

Rebecca srikes a pose against the stone wall of the Citadel St. Elmo.

…and she was certainly thinking…

Somewhere after midnight In my wildest fantasy Somewhere just beyond my reach There’s someone reaching back for me Racing on the thunder and rising with the heat It’s gonna take a superman to sweep me off my feet

I need a hero I’m holding…

Rebecca, the lead anchor-chain inspector of Villefranche, can be seen here hard at work a few days before being abducted.

“Excuse me!”, the governor shouted, pulling me out of my wandering thoughts. “Are you going to stand there all day, playing with that phone while humming songs?”

“No sir! I’m going to be the one who rescues your daughter!”, I declared.

“Do you even know how to handle a sword?”, the governor asked.

“Do I know how to handle a sword, you ask? Sir, lest you possess any doubts, allow me to present my credentials.” Reaching into my pocket to retrieve my wallet, I pulled out a photograph tucked carefully inside. “This sir, will tell you more than you need to know about my skills with a sword.”

A photograph of Big John doing battle with his fellow LARPERS (Live Action Role Players).

As expected, the governor seemed quite impressed with my photograph. After relaying to him the countless hours I’ve also spent watching various Youtube videos on fencing, he was feeling quite assured that I was the right man for the job.

As I began marching down the ramp of the citadel towards the uncertainty of my crusade, the governor called after me. “Hey, if your mission proves successful and you somehow bring back my daughter, you’re not expecting any of my gold as your reward, are you?”

“Sir,” I replied, “If I return your daughter safely to you, I only ask of you one thing. Allow me to take your daughter out for dinner. I’ve heard the food at the L’oursin Bleu is to die for!”

Hearing that I had no interest in his chest of gold, the governor let out a sigh of relief and returned to his quarters.

Why is it that there are always so many stairs to climb when attempting to rescue a damsel in distress?

The entrance to Fort Mont Alban

Finally, after a grueling climb, I made it the iron gates of Fort Mont Alban. Surprisingly, the security here was pretty laxed. Captain Pierre Le Black obviously wasn’t expecting any real resistance as I didn’t encounter a single pirate on watch.

Big John stands on the rock wall surrounding the fort as he makes preparations for battle.

Theres a motto in the Boy Scouts- “Be Prepared”. Considering that I never made it past the Cub Scouts, I hadn’t quite learned that important lesson as I stood facing the mammoth rock walls of Fort Mont Alban. I assure you, I felt very prepared one week prior when packing bootleg liquor into plastic rumrunners. The custom agents aboard the cruiseship never detected any of the booze smuggled so craftfully inside the clothing of my suitcase. Now, the shortsword I had tucked away in my backpack was an entirely different story. How was I to know that a sword would be considered contraband? Without a sword, I had no idea what to do next.

The great walls of Fort Mont Alban

I scanned the fortess but found no sight of Rebecca. The pirates must have moved here somewhere inside.

A panoramic view of the city and harbor below.

Possessing no weapon and having no viable means to rescue Rebecca from within, I began wrestling with the thought of abandoning this fool-hardy mission. I cast my eyes downward towards my cruiseship anchored peafully out in the harbor. My thoughts quickly centered only on getting safely back to my ship, back to that all-you-can-eat buffet, and back to my quiet hammock near the pool. The longer I pondered the matter, the more convinced I was that to remain there would prove to be the death of me. Then another realization quickly surfaced. Tonight was Mexican night on the ship and they were serving tacos. I had to abort!

With my mind made up, I turned my back to the fortress walls and prepared to run in the direction I had just came.

I had no sooner taken a step when I heard a stifled voice from the wall above me.

“Hey, where are you going?”, a female voice called down. “Please, don’t leave me here!”

I had no sooner taken a step when I heard a stifled voice from the wall above me.

I turned towards the wall and the sound of the voice. I saw nothing.

“I’m up here, higher on the wall!” the voice exclaimed.

I took two short steps back, bladed my hand over the top of my eyes, and searched again.

Rebecca locked away inside the caged tower of Fort Mont Alban.

It was at that precise moment when I first saw her in the flesh. The sight of her instantly restored my courage and strengthened my resolve to complete the delicate task set before me. I was going to rescue her or die trying!

“Hey, where were you going?”, she whispered down to me.

“Oh, I thought I heard somebody coming.”, I whispered back. “But… but, I’m back now.”

I informed Rebecca that her dad had sent me to rescue her and ensured her that I was in the process of devising a fail-proof plan. Ducking behind the perimeter wall for cover, I dumped out the contents of my backpack and scoured the ground for anything that might prove useful. I had some dirty socks, a half-eaten bag of beef jerky, a cheap compass, and last but not least -a plastic rumrunner flask full of blue raspberry Mad Dog 20/20. (Hey, don’t judge me. They had the stuff on sale at Green’s Liquor for $3.50 a bottle).

Mad Dog 20/20 (This stuff isn’t for the social sipper).

Now before I continue any further with this story, please allow me to interject here. Mad Dog 20/20 is one of those gifts that just keeps on giving! It’s generally found in the hands of naive high school kids sneaking off behind the woodshed to experience their very first drink. If you’ve never tried the stuff it’s like being nauseous on a tropical island, lying against the base of a palm tree, and watching as the crashing waves of the ocean going spinning wildly by. Yeah, the stuff is pretty ruthless! Let’s just say it has a lot of bite to go along with all its bark. Though most street-bums and winos know better than to mess with the drink, these pirates have probably never tasted this fine New York wine. I figured as a token of friendship, I just might just allow them to sample some of this devil’s brew.

Pirates may have a tolerance for rum, but they’re bound to learn some hard lessons in inebriation with Mad Dog 20/20.

With the 32-ounce rumrunner flask in hand, I confidentally strutted towards the center of the fort and made my way up the long flight of steps. At the top of the stairs I turned towards the massive wooden door and gave it a hardy knock. I was immediately greeted by the point of a cutlass pressing firmly against my throat.

“Argh” shouted the captain. “Who might ye’ be and why should I not run this blade through ye’ neck as you stand here trespassing on me porch?”

“Sir, please don’t hurt me!”, I cried. “I’m the runner sent by the governor to deliver his response”.

“Well then, matey”, said the pirate, “don’t hold ye’ tongue. Tell me his response!”

“Sir, the governor says he will load half the treasure into burlap sacks. They will be delivered to the fort by packmule before evening falls. You can send one of your men on the way out of town to collect the rest in exchange for delivering the governor back his daughter.”

Captain Pierre Le Black released the point of the blade from my neck and let out a hearty chuckle. “I see you’ve brought us some drink to share to celebrate this little arrangement. The governor is even more gracious than what I gave him credit for.”

“Oh, this wine isn’t from the governor.”, I said, handing him the blue syrupy drink. “It’s a personal gift from me. This is actually some of the finest wine produced in all of New York state. Go on, take it and share it with your crew. It’s guaranteed to warm your bones as you await those packmules bearing all of that gold.”

It wasn’t a full hour after I delivered the Mad Dog when the flavored tonic began to work its magic marvelously. Scaling up the wall of the fort, I peered into a window and discovered the pirates wholly incapacitated. If I was to rescue Rebecca from her tower, now was my best and only chance.

Alright, you got me. This wasn’t really an actual picture of the pirates drunk inside the fort. I borrowed the photo from Disney. It was hard enough getting the Mad Dog 20/20 inside. Did you really expect me to try sneaking inside there with a camera?

I began climbing the wall higher, searching for a room to enter undetected.

Higher and higher I climbed, over ivy covered walls, until the ground loomed dangerously far below me.

Yes, I was sweating and I’ll admit I hadn’t made much progress since the last picture. But anybody who’s ever attempted to scale a castle wall wearing New Balance running shoes can understand my difficulties.

With the pirates too wasted on Mad Dog 20/20 to do anything to stop me, I eventually found my way inside the fort, retrieved the tower key from the mouth of a mangy dog, and rescued Rebecca from her lonely cell. Thanks to Mad Dog 20/20, we able to make or escape by simply walking out the front door of the fort.

The municipal police department of Villefranche-sur-Mer.

After fleeing Fort Mont Alban, Rebecca and I headed straight to the local police station and informed them of the pirates’ intoxicated state. Even without guns, the police had no problems apprehending the drunken sailors and throwing them in the slammer where they belonged.

Police respond to Fort Mont Alban to deal with their local piracy problem.

Captain Pierre Le Black and his crew locked away inside the Villefranche jail.

Alright, you got me again. I took the picture from Disney’s Pirates of the Carribean ride. Really though, I had no choice. For security reasons, the jailers wouldn’t allow me inside the real jail with my camera.

Rebecca poses in the front of the Welcome Hotel as we venture through the friendly streets of Villefranche.

After rescuing Rebecca from those sinister pirates we immediately hit it off. As promised, the governor allowed me to take her to dinner and things just sort of blossomed from there. We left France together not long after I snapped this picture. It wasn’t too much longer after that we married. Married life is good and we live by two simple rules:

We don’t watch pirate movies and we never, ever drink Mad Dog 20/20.

In the end, the governor kept his gold and I was able to hold onto his daughter. After the Mad Dog 20/20 incident, Captain Pierre Le Black and his men swore off alcohol all together. Although I can’t confirm any of this, I heard the pirates started A.A. meetings right inside the Villefranche jail. I guess it turned out to be a win-win situation for everybody. As always, thanks for the visiting my site. Feel free to explore other areas of my blog, leave a comment, and share some love on social media.

Happy travels,

Big John

#France #Nice #pirates #Villefranche-sur-Mer

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gtfovacations-blog · 6 years

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Awesome Destinations for Women Traveling Alone

Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse writes tips and advice for solo female travelers. Like this awesome list of destinations for female travelers! Traveling solo is a unique opportunity to find out exactly who you are in completely new surroundings and without anyone around from your past to influence you. That can be a scary prospect, but the good news is there are plenty of places out there that can make you feel safe and welcome. And when in the right place, a solo trip — regardless of how long it is — has the power to benefit you for years or even a lifetime thereafter. Before I traveled alone, I was pretty terrified, mostly because I didn’t think I’d like my own company enough to be solo 24/7. I was delighted to find that I met new people constantly (something that’s true for solo travelers in general). When on the road, people are social. While it was possible to feel inspired and delighted everywhere, a few places in particular stand out as great options for women traveling alone. Below are 10 solo travel destinations that you probably didn’t expect to be awesome for solo female travelers in particular, whether for their women-oriented businesses or for their safety, solitude, spirituality, or sociability: 1. Moab, Utah

Moab is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. For those all about the camper van life, bouldering, hiking, and kayaking, Moab has it all going on. It’s where you’ll find Canyonlands and Arches National Parks as well as Dead Horse State Park. Basically, it’s one of the most gorgeous areas on Earth with a high concentration of incredible rock formations and free campsites. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: I easily met people just by hanging around the free campsites, the coffee shops, and while watching the sunset over Dead Horse point during my solo American Southwest road trip. I tend to find that when a place attracts people because of a common shared interest, especially something outdoorsy, it tends to be social. Moab is a perfect example of that. 2. Yubeng, China

Yubeng is a remote village in the Chinese Himalayas that can only be reached by foot or mule. During the hike in, I saw Tibetan prayer flags strung from tree to tree, snow softly falling, and animals roaming freely all throughout the town. There are stupas (mound-like structures containing relics and used for meditation) everywhere. Yubeng is peaceful in a way that much of the rest of China isn’t. The feeling is hard to explain, but it’s felt by all who pass through. If you’re overwhelmed with the rest of China, seek refuge in Yubeng. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: In the big cities, scams often target young female tourists, but in the Himalayas, you’re more of an esteemed guest. The friendly people of Yubeng are so relaxed, patient, and welcoming, as are the younger tourists who flock there, often with some English-language ability and curiosity about foreign visitors. As a solo traveler, I was worried that I would be completely going this one alone, but I was surprised and delighted to find that young and friendly Chinese people take this route too, seeking the same sacred place. 3. Maui, Hawaii

Maui isn’t typically what comes to mind when most people think of a solo trip, but with all its activities — from surfing and hiking to driving the road to Hana and taking boating and snorkeling tours — it’s actually a great place for those flying solo. With its constantly changing microclimates, the beautiful island has pockets of sandy sunset beaches, sprawling resorts, quaint little camping spots, and hikes through the valley. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: The cool thing about Maui is that it feels like a different country than the States, what with the tropical weather and Hawaiian culture, but you don’t need a passport, an RTW flight, or to learn a different language to enjoy it. Plus, there are female-focused activities — like the Maui Surfer Girls camp, designed specifically for solo female travelers who are looking for a supportive group of women to take up a new sport with. It’s an experience that is both empowering and fun! 4. El Chaltén, Argentina

If you love nature, there’s almost no better spot in the world to enjoy it fully than in Patagonia. Much of the region can be quite remote, but El Chaltén is Argentina’s trekking capital, and as such there are plenty of hostels there, and the whole town is totally chilled out. It also draws plenty of solo travelers who are open and happy to meet others to share the trails with, some of whom I met and hiked with when I was there (albeit not solo myself), and we left as new friends. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: With its constant catcalls, South America can sometimes feel stressful for solo female travelers, but this trekking town is different. It’s full of nature-loving artists and hippies who are welcoming, as well as hikes that are full enough of people that even if you show up solo, you can easily meet others on the trails. So, you could spend time in town just chilling and relaxing, or you could join glacier hikes, learn how to rock climb, or go on camping excursions, all of which accommodate solo travelers. 5. Iceland

It hit me as I was staring up at the Northern Lights in Iceland, watching them swirl and snake across the sky in flashes of green, that this has got to be, hands-down, one of the most unique and drop-dead gorgeous places on this planet, with its black sand beaches, icy fjords, and those huggable, iconic ponies. Where else can you see the northern lights, geysers, and incredible land formations all in one spot? I saw so many waterfalls, during my Ring Road adventure I stopped counting and even paying attention. That’s how abundant the natural beauty is! Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Iceland is the safest country in the world. Seriously, people leave their cars running, with the keys inside, when they go grocery shopping. That’s how high the level of trust between people is! Plus, the capital draws so many solo travelers on layovers from the US that it won’t be hard to meet someone cool at your hostel to split a car rental with for a day trip like the Golden Circle or even a longer journey like the Ring Road. 6. Ylläs, Finland

When thinking about an escape, heading to the Arctic during the winter was not exactly at the top of my list, but after experiencing how amazing the Arctic could be in Iceland, I went for it: Lapland, Finland, in January. I found that when the weather is so cold that it drops to 30° below freezing, the air becomes incredibly crisp. Also, that far north, the sun barely sits on the horizon during the short time that it’s out, creating an an unusual combination sunrise/sunset. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: The locals are so darn amiable that you’re sure to make a few friends, especially if you head to the female-owned-and-run Aurora Estate, where the owners can help you plan some awesome excursions snowmobiling and snowshoeing. The region is also home to the only ski slopes in the country, which tend to draw solo travelers. Head to an after-ski bar, join a husky safari, or talk to the locals in Snowman World (ice bar and restaurant). Who knows? You might catch the Northern Lights, too! 7. Big Sur, California

I call California home, but for some reason it took me until I was 29 to finally visit Big Sur — and I couldn’t believe what I had been missing: the rocky coastline, whales breaching in the distance, dolphins just about every time I looked at the horizon, and waterfalls in the state parks. It’s no wonder that the Central Coast has long enchanted actors, poets, and writers (just crack open any book by Jack Kerouac and you’re bound to read at least a little bit about coastal California, particularly Big Sur). Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Camping in Big Sur is the perfect opportunity to meet others because campers are friendly. Chances are good you can make a pal at the very next camping spot, especially if you offer them a locally-brewed beer. The hustle and bustle of Los Angeles turns some visitors off, so if what you’re seeking is some incredible nature, just head five hours north and you’ll be in paradise. How can you stare up at a redwood tree (some of the largest and oldest trees in the world) and not feel moved? 8. The Nusa Islands, Indonesia

The Nusa islands off the coast of Bali in Indonesia are exactly what you’re looking for if you want the beauty of Balinese culture but wish it came without the crowds. Made up of three islands, namely Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Ceningan, They are what people say Bali was like 30 years ago. Think gorgeous beaches with half the crowd of Bali’s, opportunities to swim with manta rays and staying in a real treehouse, viewpoints that require some footwork but absolutely worthy, and the bluest water you can imagine. It’s a lovely place to spend a few nights on and have a nice taste of how Bali used to be. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Most couples traveling in this area opt for Bali, so chances of you sitting awkwardly next to a loving couple on a stunning beach is much lesser on the Nusa Islands. While some roads are in better condition than the other, they are all great for a full day of solo excursion on a bike. You are likely to end up in the same spots with other solo travelers, so meeting others is also very easy. 9. Sossusvlei, Namibia

It might seem like a barren desert isn’t the place to enjoy by yourself, but I have found it to be quite the opposite. That kind of space to think and feel can really be incredible for personal development. Plus, in Namibia, it’s warm and dry, so the sky is absolutely incredible for stargazing. Climbing up and around Dune 45 at sunrise was a beautiful experience for me. After everyone else descended, I stayed up top to explore a bit more — and I had the whole view to myself. Can you imagine sitting in one of nature’s biggest sandboxes and having it feel like it’s all yours? My inner six-year-old rejoiced. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Namibia is adventurous and social without feeling dangerous. All of the backpackers and camping accommodations have pools and other common areas, which makes it easy to meet others if you’re solo. It’s also a gorgeous destination in Africa that isn’t crowded and chaotic and is more about the peace and space than anything else. In a country of only two million people, your biggest worry is the scorpions (for real, though — watch out for those!). You can also join a tour or safari and meet plenty of other solo travelers. It’s what I did, and I loved it! 10. Berlin, Germany

How did a big city make this list? Well, Berlin is not just any city; it’s full of artists and has been for the past 30 or so years. It’s hard not to feel inspired in a place where so many people make their living by creating and honoring their passions. This is why I’ve also made it my home base and became a resident of Germany. I just couldn’t be without this funky place for too long! Though it’s the capital, Berlin doesn’t feel crowded because it is so spread out. And with so many big parks in just about every neighborhood, peace and quiet is easy to come by. Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Berlin draws many solo travelers, and it’s easy to meet others. It’s also a socially progressive city with a low violent crime rate that’s simple to navigate and easy to love. Take a street art tour and combine everything at once! There are also tons of expats, so check out a Meetup.com group or a Couchsurfing event to get a mix of visitors and those who are more familiar with the city. Read the full article

#Berlin #BigSur #ElChaltén #Maui #Moab #Sossusvlei #TheNusaIslands #Ylläs #Yubeng

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joshuamshea84 · 6 years

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10 Awesome Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Updated: 8/19/2018 | August 19th, 2018

Every month (most of the time), Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse writes a guest column featuring tips and advice for solo female travelers as I obviously can’t talk expertly on the subject! She’s back this month with an awesome list of destinations for female travelers!

Traveling solo is a unique opportunity to find out exactly who you are in completely new surroundings and without anyone around from your past to influence you. That can be a scary prospect, but the good news is there are plenty of places out there that can make you feel safe and welcome. And when in the right place, a solo trip — regardless of how long it is — has the power to benefit you for years or even a lifetime thereafter.

Before I traveled alone, I was pretty terrified, mostly because I didn’t think I’d like my own company enough to be solo 24/7. I was delighted to find that I met new people constantly (something that’s true for solo travelers in general). When on the road, people are social.

While it was possible to feel inspired and delighted everywhere, a few places in particular stand out as great options for women traveling alone. Below are 10 solo travel destinations that you probably didn’t expect to be awesome for solo female travelers in particular, whether for their women-oriented businesses or for their safety, solitude, spirituality, or sociability:

1. Moab, Utah

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: I easily met people just by hanging around the free campsites, the coffee shops, and while watching the sunset over Dead Horse point during my solo American Southwest road trip. I tend to find that when a place attracts people because of a common shared interest, especially something outdoorsy, it tends to be social. Moab is a perfect example of that.

2. Yubeng, China

Yubeng is peaceful in a way that much of the rest of China isn’t. The feeling is hard to explain, but it’s felt by all who pass through. If you’re overwhelmed with the rest of China, seek refuge in Yubeng.

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: In the big cities, scams often target young female tourists, but in the Himalayas, you’re more of an esteemed guest. The friendly people of Yubeng are so relaxed, patient, and welcoming, as are the younger tourists who flock there, often with some English-language ability and curiosity about foreign visitors.

As a solo traveler, I was worried that I would be completely going this one alone, but I was surprised and delighted to find that young and friendly Chinese people take this route too, seeking the same sacred place.

3. Maui, Hawaii

With its constantly changing microclimates, the beautiful island has pockets of sandy sunset beaches, sprawling resorts, quaint little camping spots, and hikes through the valley.

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: The cool thing about Maui is that it feels like a different country than the States, what with the tropical weather and Hawaiian culture, but you don’t need a passport, an RTW flight, or to learn a different language to enjoy it. Plus, there are female-focused activities — like the Maui Surfer Girls camp, designed specifically for solo female travelers who are looking for a supportive group of women to take up a new sport with. It’s an experience that is both empowering and fun!

4. El Chaltén, Argentina

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: With its constant catcalls, South America can sometimes feel stressful for solo female travelers, but this trekking town is different. It’s full of nature-loving artists and hippies who are welcoming, as well as hikes that are full enough of people that even if you show up solo, you can easily meet others on the trails. So, you could spend time in town just chilling and relaxing, or you could join glacier hikes, learn how to rock climb, or go on camping excursions, all of which accommodate solo travelers.

5. Iceland

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Iceland is the safest country in the world. Seriously, people leave their cars running, with the keys inside, when they go grocery shopping. That’s how high the level of trust between people is! Plus, the capital draws so many solo travelers on layovers from the US that it won’t be hard to meet someone cool at your hostel to split a car rental with for a day trip like the Golden Circle or even a longer journey like the Ring Road.

6. Ylläs, Finland

I found that when the weather is so cold that it drops to 30° below freezing, the air becomes incredibly crisp. Also, that far north, the sun barely sits on the horizon during the short time that it’s out, creating an an unusual combination sunrise/sunset.

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: The locals are so darn amiable that you’re sure to make a few friends, especially if you head to the female-owned-and-run Aurora Estate, where the owners can help you plan some awesome excursions snowmobiling and snowshoeing. The region is also home to the only ski slopes in the country, which tend to draw solo travelers. Head to an after-ski bar, join a husky safari, or talk to the locals in Snowman World (ice bar and restaurant). Who knows? You might catch the Northern Lights, too!

7. Big Sur, California

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Camping in Big Sur is the perfect opportunity to meet others because campers are friendly. Chances are good you can make a pal at the very next camping spot, especially if you offer them a locally-brewed beer. The hustle and bustle of Los Angeles turns some visitors off, so if what you’re seeking is some incredible nature, just head five hours north and you’ll be in paradise. How can you stare up at a redwood tree (some of the largest and oldest trees in the world) and not feel moved?

8. The Nusa Islands, Indonesia

9. Sossusvlei, Namibia

Climbing up and around Dune 45 at sunrise was a beautiful experience for me. After everyone else descended, I stayed up top to explore a bit more — and I had the whole view to myself. Can you imagine sitting in one of nature’s biggest sandboxes and having it feel like it’s all yours? My inner six-year-old rejoiced.

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Namibia is adventurous and social without feeling dangerous. All of the backpackers and camping accommodations have pools and other common areas, which makes it easy to meet others if you’re solo. It’s also a gorgeous destination in Africa that isn’t crowded and chaotic and is more about the peace and space than anything else. In a country of only two million people, your biggest worry is the scorpions (for real, though — watch out for those!).

You can also join a tour or safari and meet plenty of other solo travelers. It’s what I did, and I loved it!

10. Berlin, Germany

Though it’s the capital, Berlin doesn’t feel crowded because it is so spread out. And with so many big parks in just about every neighborhood, peace and quiet is easy to come by.

Why it’s great for solo female travelers: Berlin draws many solo travelers, and it’s easy to meet others. It’s also a socially progressive city with a low violent crime rate that’s simple to navigate and easy to love. Take a street art tour and combine everything at once! There are also tons of expats, so check out a Meetup.com group or a Couchsurfing event to get a mix of visitors and those who are more familiar with the city.

**** While solo traveling and soul-searching don’t lend themselves to a one-size-fits-all approach, generally the places that draw solo travelers are the ones that are the most interesting and unique, provide opportunities to enjoy nature and connect with others (and with yourself). Regardless of which place you’re targeting in the world, with these options covering just about every continent and style of travel, you can find a place that suits you.

Kristin Addis is a solo female travel expert who inspires women to travel the world in an authentic and adventurous way. A former investment banker who sold all of her belongings and left California in 2012, Kristin has solo traveled the world for over four years, covering every continent (except for Antarctica, but it’s on her list). There’s almost nothing she won’t try and almost nowhere she won’t explore. You can find more of her musings at Be My Travel Muse or on Instagram and Facebook.

Conquering Mountains: The Guide to Solo Female Travel

For a complete A-to-Z guide on solo female travel, check out Kristin’s new book, Conquering Mountains. Besides discussing many of the practical tips of preparing and planning your trip, the book addresses the fears, safety, and emotional concerns women have about traveling alone. It features over 20 interviews with other female travel writers and travelers. Click here to learn more about the book and start reading it today!

For more articles by Kristin and solo female travel tips, click here.

The post 10 Awesome Destinations for Solo Female Travelers appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

from Traveling News https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/ten-solo-female-travel-spots/

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melissagarcia8 · 6 years

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10 Awesome Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Updated: 8/19/2018 | August 19th, 2018

1. Moab, Utah

2. Yubeng, China

3. Maui, Hawaii

With its constantly changing microclimates, the beautiful island has pockets of sandy sunset beaches, sprawling resorts, quaint little camping spots, and hikes through the valley.

4. El Chaltén, Argentina

5. Iceland

6. Ylläs, Finland

7. Big Sur, California

8. The Nusa Islands, Indonesia

9. Sossusvlei, Namibia

You can also join a tour or safari and meet plenty of other solo travelers. It’s what I did, and I loved it!

10. Berlin, Germany

Though it’s the capital, Berlin doesn’t feel crowded because it is so spread out. And with so many big parks in just about every neighborhood, peace and quiet is easy to come by.

Conquering Mountains: The Guide to Solo Female Travel

For more articles by Kristin and solo female travel tips, click here.

The post 10 Awesome Destinations for Solo Female Travelers appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

from Traveling News https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/ten-solo-female-travel-spots/

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davidamosley · 7 years

Text

The Benefits of Pets in Recovery

Artwork inspired by FreehandMagic on Instagram and Etsy

Over the couple of weeks, I've been recovering from surgery, and, though it ended up being a relatively easy process compared to others I've had, it's still never a fun experience. (Though, to be fair, playing Scrabble with my mom while watching Hallmark Christmas movies was pretty enjoyable!).

Recovery in the physical sense it tough, and I've made it a little bit more challenging on myself by diving into Russell Brand's amazing book, Recovery: Freedom From Our Addictions, while in rest-up mode. The book is so good — I'd recommend it to anyone, even those who don't have substance abuse issues — but it's definitely put me on a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. (One of the highs: seeing my pup, Barkley, featured on Russell's Instagram page!)

As I've been working through physical and emotional pain, I've discovered one incredibly beneficial resource that I don't read about often enough: my dog. Studies have show that pet ownership, or just being in the presence of a companion animal, is associated with health benefits, including improvements in mental, social, and physiologic health status. Animals can have a majorly positive impact on our lives, but my awareness of this impact seems to be heightened when it comes to recovery of any kind.

Recovery, of course, requires assistance from humans, too, but there's something different and powerful about the presence of an animal. Here are some of the benefits I've experienced, in both physical and substance-related recovery, as a result of having a dog in my life:

COMFORT

Probably the most basic of all recovery benefits is the comfort spending time with an animal brings. It's been shown that playing with or petting a pet can help lower oxytocin levels in the brain, which helps you feel more relaxed and less stressed — two factors that definitely help with the anxiety that comes with any kind of recovery. Most of us who have pets know that petting an animal is calming, and it's also been shown to help keep blood pressure levels lower. Pets also offer physical warmth. I've noticed that warmth — a cozy blanket, clothes fresh out of the dryer, a cup of tea, a soothing bath, or the snuggly body of a pet — really helps with my anxiety. Just feeling the warm pressure of a pup leaning against you (as Barkley is right now as I'm writing this!) can provide additional comfort.

HONESTY

This one tends to apply a bit more to substance recovery, but the benefit is actually pretty universal for anyone who struggles with emotions (who doesn't?!). The great thing about pets is: they can't hide their emotions. When they're afraid or distraught, we know it (especially if we know them well!), and they, in turn, are often tuned into our emotions. This offers a two-fold benefit: (1) they can be a barometer we can use to assess how we're feeling because they'll often mirror our emotional states, and (2) they can inspire us to be more emotionally honest. Many of us (even those without substance abuse histories) try to numb or avoid our emotions, but, through the help of our pets, we can learn that recognizing and expressing emotions doesn't have to be so challenging. (The resistance to feelings is actually way more painful in the end!)

COMPASSION

Many animals are able to show compassion for those in emotional or physical pain. Anyone who's had a dog lick her face while she's crying knows that, while pups might not understand complex human emotions, they do appear to understand our feelings in some and often do what they can with their limited communication abilities to convey compassion and even empathy. This compassion can also be easier for some people to accept than the compassion from fellow humans. If you're feeling frustrated by your condition or even envious of those who can do things you cannot (i.e., walking post-surgery or drinking casually without self-destruction), accepting compassion from others can be challenging. With pets, there's no comparison or complex emotional acceptance involved when compassion is offered. The simplicity of it makes it easier to embrace.

SELFLESSNESS

When in recovery of any kind, it can be challenging not to become at least a little self-absorbed. You're in pain and pain's an attention-seeking type of thing. It demands to be felt and attended to, which can lead to some selfish tendencies. While, of course, it's important to attend to pain, focusing too much on it can be dangerous. Pets can take us out of this me-focused mindset because they have many needs they can't attend to on their own — like food, walks, etc. Self-care and self-reflection are important in recovery of any kind, but having a little creature that needs you can be a useful tool for remembering that, despite your pain, the world doesn't (and shouldn't!) revolve around you. Pets give you a purpose, which can be a very big morale boost when you're in a difficult physical or emotional state.

MINDFULNESS

I've written about this countless times before, but pets are such good motivators for staying in the moment. Animals can certainly think about the future and the past, but they tend not to dwell on them the way us humans do. When it recovery, we can learn so much from paying attention to how animals are just able to be. They have the benefit of not having some of the complexities that come with the human brain and, while we might not ever to be able to reach their level of supreme mindfulness, paying attention to how they pay attention be a positively transformative experience. Engaging in certain activities with them (like playing fetch, for example) can also offer opportunities to practice being in the moment.

COMPANIONSHIP

One of the greatest challenges in recovery is the sense of isolation one is likely to feel. Even if you're fortunate enough to have great people around you (thanks, Mom and Dad, for taking care of me!), you're still likely to feel lonely and adrift at times. Other people cannot be by your side 24/7 (nor would you probably want them to be!), but a pet can often be with you most of the time, providing companionship that can ease feelings of loneliness or isolation. While family and friends can provide love and support, unconditional love in the face of recovery can sometimes lead to enabling behavior. Human companionship, no matter how wonderful, is always a bit complex. With pets, it's simple: they love you no matter who you are or what you do, and they don't in any way use that love to enable any behaviors.

SOCIABILITY

Pets not only give you social interaction with them (no, it's not a substitute for human interaction, but it's still nice), they also give you motivation to get up and socialize with others. (Note: this might just apply to dogs, unless you have a leash for your cat, in which case you're either awesome or have an awesome cat.) When you're in pain (and particularly if you're introverted by nature), getting out and about while in recovery can be hard. If you're physically recovering, you might not really feel up to showcasing your ailment to the world. If it's an emotional kind of recovery, you might feel hesitant or unready to get out and about. But taking a dog for a walk and encountering neighbors can be a simple but effective way to slowly get back to your old self. At the very least, it gets you outside for some fresh air, which I'm pretty sure is good for all kinds of recovery!

PLAYFULNESS

When you're in recovery of any kind, playing isn't really at the forefront of your mind, but pets can bring out a liveliness in you that you didn't realize was there. In general, most adult humans don't do enough playing (at least in my opinion!), and that's one thing pets can be really good at. Playing can have many emotional and cognitive benefits, and even if it's just a short session of tossing the ball or tugging at toy, playing with a pet can really boost your mood — which is a wonderful thing when you're in recovery and might be struggling emotionally. Play also gets you up and moving a bit, which can be beneficial when you either don't feel like (or physically can't) exercise. More endorphins = more healthy mood boosters!

If you're going through any kind of recovery, I hope you have the opportunity to spend time with animals, even if just for a little while. There's something magical about the way they live, and, while it might seem like their lives are simple compared to ours, there's a lot we humans can learn from our four-legged friends. And there are certainly many ways we can benefit from their presence in our lives. If you don't have a pet in your life, you can always check out the adventures (and book recommendations!) of Barkley the Morkie on Instagram! And if you can think of any additional benefits (or even some helpful recovery tips), feel free to leave them in the comments below!

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