Life’s Uncommon Journey
An American woman’s exploration of international travel, culture, food, and all things random. Let’s Go! Search for a post for faster results.
Making uncommon things common.
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Where is the country of Malta and why should you visit?
If you have 36 hours to spare, here are my recommendations of what to do when you visit Malta. Bookmark this post and have a great trip!
2023’s Ultimate “Must Go” Travel List
There are so many amazing places to visit around the world that it can be tough to choose just a few destinations to recommend as "ultimate" travel destinations, especially since everyone has different interests and preferences.
Basel - 4 the Kultur Xmas Market
Basel, Switzerland is home to a unique black Christmas market, known as the Schwarzmarkt Basel. This market is held each year in Basel's Old Town…
Barcelona Stole My Heart!
LE VIE: Short getaway trips are something I love... The simplicity of packing a weekend bag and being spontaneous resonates with how important it is to just “be.” I get excited about arriving at a destination; ready to explore. One city filled with exploration, excitement and culture is Barcelona, Spain. The architecture, laid back atmosphere and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea makes for a perfect weekend getaway.
Morning Plate Options
Morning plate! Hodgepodge of sorts, but sometimes when you aren't craving a whole meal, eating something balanced still helps. Could have skipped the cheese... but, I love cheese …
Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Quick Method)
LA CUISINE: America’s fascination with the air fryer has spawned a variety of recipes and cooking shortcuts. I enjoy cooking chicken wings in the air fryer to get the crispy texture and retains juiciness. Especially in #quarantinetimes, finding quick snacks to cook or food easy to prepare for movie night feels like the new normal.
Getting More Veggies in Your Diet
LE MANGER: Wondering how to get more vegetables into your daily diet? Consider breakfast as a great moment to introduce hearty, flavorful veggies that fill you up and counts towards #5aday!
Quick Lunch Recipe - Kale-Veggie Mix!
LA MANGER: Need something quick to eat on busy day? A veggie bowl that's savory and sweet is all you need! Easy to make in about 20 minutes, prepping a few of your favorite veggies alongside a dried cranberries and nuts completes the meal and will keep you full. Pair with a refreshing glass of Peach iced tea.
Instant Pot Broccoli Cheese Soup
LA SOUPE: The 2020 Shelter-in Place or aka #quarantinelife has inspired many to cook amazing dishes. Instagram is filled with amazing recipes and pictures of what everyone and their mother (literally) are making to help time pass.
Trying Various Green Smoothie Recipes
“L'AVOCAT!” Most days when I'm not in the mood to cook, I make a smoothie as an alternative. Being on lockdown during 2020 COVID-19 has certainly posed new opportunities to try different recipes.
The Comfort of Shrimp & Grits
LA NOURRITURE:“Le repas est servi…” All encompassing and hearty, “shrimp and grits” is one of those cornerstone meals in African American cuisine which when perfectly mastered, demonstrates one can cook. There are also many restaurants serving up this tasty dish as part of their brunch menus, evening dinner spreads, and the occasional “chef special.”
Counting Steps; Never Counting Cities
LA VIE: Just a quick random note (thinking aloud)… I often observe that when visiting cities, it is so important to walk as much as possible to see the sites and sounds of the city. I like to count the number of steps I take - not the locations I visit.
Restaurant Review: Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
LA NOURRITURE: OC Burger Week was a perfect opportunity for a friend and I to try out the many #goodeats at Bosscat Kitchen & Libations in Newport Beach, CA. Conveniently located near John Wayne Airport, Bosscat is the perfect location to eat and sip before or after a flight or even after work.
Expat Diary: Dating in Europe - My Mocha Soundtrack
LA VIE: Is dating in Europe more challenging than in America? Are the personal desires, conflicts, frustrations, and attitudes easier to adjust to and tolerate? My dating adventures in Europe over the past 2.5 years have contributed to my life’s soundtrack.
Travel Testimony: Is Wrapping Your Luggage Worth It?
LE VOYAGE: Metropolitan airports offer many services for travelers that could leave a few people wondering if it’s a gimmick or a worthwhile investment. If your airport offers the security wrapped luggage service where an independent agent wraps your luggage in cellophane… its worth considering.
Le Livre de Mode: Printemps Paris
LA VIE: Mention the words, “mall,” “shopping,” or “department stores” and I am eager to explore. Paris is filled with amazing stores that delight my fashion senses. From small-to-large boutiques, upscale stores that contain everything, shoppers will have endless fun shopping in the “City of Light.”
The Beauty of Barcelona!
LA VIE: Short getaway trips are something I live for... It resonates with how fast I can get excited about arriving to a destination and in an instant be ready to go. I love short excursions that give me "just enough" yet make me feel invited to come back
Parisian Eats: The Fusion Flair of COJEAN
LA NOURRITURE: French food has an international appeal that makes most people smile. The mere mention of fresh breads, foie gras, savory sauces, and coq au vin are tasty delicacies abundantly available.
Expat Diary: Three Questions I Am Constantly in France!
MA VIE: So living in Europe is interesting, full of intrigue, and not for the thin-skinned American. Not that it’s a tough life… it’s more about what questions an American might be asked in a general sense; yet it can be misunderstood by “some” because it could be perceived inappropriate or rude.
Paris Cafes - American Vibe - List 2
LES CAFÉS: I enjoy international cuisine. Yet with certain ingredients, products, and snacks not readily available in France, I do get homesick for American-style food. Luckily, my restaurant adventures have helped me compile a short list of restaurants Americans should consider if they are traveling in Paris and just simply crave something more American!