Travel & Terrorism: The Fear of Traveling Internationally

At the start of the year my mother pleaded with me “LaToya, please do me a favor. Don’t leave the U.S. this year”. I promised her I wouldn’t and that I would only travel within the U.S. However, only 2 months would go by before this changed (I’m sorry mom), she had a valid reason to be concerned.

Last August, I took my first trip to Asia (Thailand). While my trip turned out to be an amazing cultural experience, I was in complete shock once I returned home. I got back to New York on a Saturday afternoon and the very next day, I was receiving back-to-back phone calls and text messages from family and close friends. I had no idea what was going on (I was seriously jet-lagged). Apparently, there was a bombing in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. To make matters worse the bombers were specifically targeting areas most visited by tourists.

Thailand

My heart dropped when I turned the channel to global news, I was in complete disbelief. I just left the city 15 hours’ prior and was definitely in those same touristy areas. I reassured all my loved ones that I was safe, sound and no longer in Thailand. My heart ached for those who were not as fortunate. How could the world be so evil?

After the bombing in Bangkok, Thailand (cnbc.com)

It’s now February 2016 and I just confirmed my flight to Europe. I was so excited for my upcoming girls’ trip and even more excited to explore cities that I’ve never traveled to before. Geneva, Switzerland; Milan, Italy and Chamonix, France were on the agenda. It was then that I realized which airline I was exactly flying on. My girlfriend purchased her flight first so I just booked on the same airline as her. My heart sunk when I realized we would be flying with Turkish Airlines.  

Turkey was just in the news 3 weeks’ prior about recent attacks and turmoil in Istanbul. My thoughts instantly went to my time in Bangkok…man not again. I decided not to say anything to my family or close friends. I didn’t want them to worry.

Geneva, Switzerland

I went on my trip (only 3 weeks ago now) and created incredible memories…11 days later there was another attack in Istanbul, Turkey.

After the bombing in Turkey 

As an avid traveler I would be lying if I didn’t say that I was afraid to travel internationally again. As of March 22, 2016 the U.S. Department of State (U.S. Passports & International Travel) issued a travel alert for Europe. Turkey and a long list of other countries are on there too. In the last 2 weeks, there has been other acts of terrorism in Brussels, Belgium; Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso and Lahore, Pakistan. I highly suggest that you check out their website before your next international trip. There you will see the countries that has been placed on the travel alerts or travel warnings list.

Mourners in Pakistan (nytimes.com)

Directly from the U.S. Department of State:

"We issue a Travel Warning when we want you to consider very carefully whether you should go to a country at all. Examples of reasons for issuing a Travel Warning might include unstable government, civil war, ongoing intense crime or violence, or frequent terrorist attacks. We want you to know the risks of traveling to these places and to strongly consider not going to them at all. Travel Warnings remain in place until the situation changes; some have been in effect for years."

In the travel community we are constantly discussing how America’s media outlets seem to be discouraging our fellow citizens from traveling internationally by highlighting everything that is going wrong in other countries. Nonetheless, fear is a strong emotion, so I understand any hesitation. 

However, at the same time you can’t truly live life to the fullest if you’re constantly fearful of the unknown, because anything can happen anywhere and at anytime so travel safe and travel smart.

Christmas in New York City!

I spent the past 2 weekends in New York City enjoying everything related to the holidays. Just because Christmas has passed doesn't mean it's too late to visit the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, the windows on 5th avenue or go ice skating in Bryant Park. I do this every year and it never gets old to me. So if you're in the city this holiday season don't miss out!

Happy Holidays!

The Poconos: Skytop Lodge Resort

Who says you have to travel far to experience a winter jet-away? Although, the winter season is FINALLY over (it’s been the longest winter ever), it’s never too late to get a head start on next year. Now that I have some down time-my new role at work as a Business Banker has me exhausted most days- I can share my experience about skiing in the Poconos and my time spent at Skytop Lodge Resort.

             

Towards the end of 2014,  I was looking for an affordable escape from this brutal winter and decided on the Bahamas. However, after some unexpected life events decided on committing to a trip that was in the tri-state area. So here’s how I made the best of my weekend trip in the Poconos!

Transportation
I decided to take Martz Trailways bus line for our trip the Poconos instead of renting a car. My ticket was $73 round-trip from Penn Station to the Mt. Pocono bus stop. I then called Skytop’s front desk after booking my bus ticket to arrange a pick-up with their shuttle bus. The bus ride was 2 hours long and the shuttle from the bus stop to the lodge was only 20 minutes. My advice is to call ahead and make sure your name and correct pick-up time is on their list. 

On the shuttle bus

Skytop Lodge Resort

Now this is what I call old-world charm! This was the first time I’ve ever stayed in a lodge and I was very impressed. Skytop Lodge reminds me of a chateau that you would see in France or any other region with French influence. If you ever been to a country or members only club, then this is exactly what Skytop feels like…very exclusive. Opened in 1928, Skytop’s story was envisioned and brought to life by 4 men who wanted to create a resort for families, couples and more to visit throughout the year. This hidden gem is settled nicely at the mountaintops of the Poconos. We stayed at the Main Lodge because I wanted easy access to the indoor pool, jacuzzi, gym and multiple fireplaces throughout the lodge. However, you also have the option of a more intimate feel by reserving a room at the Inn or Cottage. Since I’ve grown accustomed to more modern art deco type of hotels, staying at a lodge was a very different, yet enjoyable experience.

The Main Lodge

Relaxing in front of the fireplace



Pictures of former guests at Skytop

The Ladies Locker Room

Winter Activities

I ended up booking the “Winter Family Fun” package which I would recommend so you don’t have to worry about paying for every activity out of pocket. The package included skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow shoeing and tobogganing. Additional activities that was not included in the package was snow tubing, ice fishing, hiking, dog sledding through Artic Paws Dog Sled Tours and many more activities. I opted for ice skating and skiing (with a ski lesson) because, I  went too late in the season to go dog sledding or tobogganing (both were closed and I was very sad about this).

 

My private ski lesson was much needed!

What to Wear

The truth is winter trips can be very pricey! Compared to typical vacations were you can just wear your regular clothes; you can’t do the same for winter trips. For skiing and/or snowboarding you will need a base layer (think water-restraint long johns), mid-layer (fleece sweater and water-restraint leggings) and outer wear (ski jacket and ski pants). You want to stay as warm and dry as possible. You’ll also need thick ski gloves, ski goggles, and a hat or helmet. I first went shopping at Paragon Sports, but if you’re not an experienced skier, I would shop with caution. Ski pants here could run you anywhere from $110-$400 (too rich for my blood). 

Next step, head to the sales rack! I purchased my ski pants Paragon on the sales rack for $90 a few years ago. You could try more affordable places like Burlington Coat Factory or Marshall’s for outer ski gear and Old Navy or Target for your base and mid layer. You could also rent your ski gear from Mountain Threads. If you are familiar with Rent-the-Runway, it’s pretty much the same concept. I was able to rent a ski jacket, ski pants, ski goggles and gloves all for $112. They could deliver the package to your home, office or to the ski resort directly (perfect if you don’t want to travel with heavy ski clothes). You mail the rented clothes back once your trip is over. Simple! As a last resort... borrow ski clothes from a friend!

Paragon Sports

Dining Experience

I spent majority of our time dining at the Windsor Dining Room. I selected the package that included the breakfast, lunch and dinner option. It was sort-of like an all-inclusive deal. It was a cost effective option, which allowed us not to worry about paying for anything once we got there. Dinner was formal (men cannot enter without a jacket on); a 4-course menu (appetizer, soup or salad, main entrée and dessert) was served each night and reservations must be made in advance. The cuisine and service was impeccable! The highlight of the night was having the hotel manager stop by my table to introduce himself. On our last day before getting back on the road I had lunch at the Tap Room for a more relax feel…think your local sports bar.

Dinner at the Windsor Dining Room

Drinks at the Tap Room

Final Travel Tips

If I had to do it again I would plan my winter trip from December-February. I went the 2nd weekend in March and some activities were closed because it wasn’t cold enough.

Make sure to enjoy the pool, jazzcui and spa. I never really took advantage of hotel amenities but now I do!

Don’t be afraid to chit chat with other guests. I did and it definitely added to our trip.

Skytop doesn’t have a ski lift they use what is called a pomalift.

If you don’t want to be around children, this not the place for you. Skytop is a family-friendly resort.  

The bar doesn’t open until Noon. Keep this in mind if you can’t live without mimosas during an early brunch.

There’s a bonfire every night at 8:30pm. Skytop provides the marshmallows. Get there early! I got there too late and missed out (insert sad face emoji).

Good News: Skytop Lodge is open year round, so you don’t have to wait until next winter to visit! As their website states, guests continue to return because of “the spring flowers, summer adventures, fall foliage or winter wonders."

Thank you again Skytop Lodge for upgrading my King Room to a King Suite with a mountain view and for the impeccable hospitality throughout our entire trip!

Skytop Lodge

One Skytop

Skytop, PA 18357

www.skytop.com

P: (570)595.7401

Have you ever been on a winter trip? If not, is it something you would do?

Travel Year in Review: 2014 Most Memorable Moments (Part II)

Can you believe that it’s March already?! I feel like I just finished dancing the night away on New Year’s Eve night, with my too tight, green sparkly dress on. Nevertheless, before I just dive into planning my first trip for 2015, I wanted to share the second half of my travels in 2014. Although, I did not take any international trips last year, (I made a promise to myself to do so every year) I had an amazing time exploring more of the U.S.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (City of Brotherly Love)

Traveling to Philadelphia was not on my list at all. My first time in Philly was in summer 2009 with my old roomie.  Honestly, the city didn’t excite me much. Therefore, I had no immediate desire to return. That all changed the moment Beyoncé and Jay-Z announced their “On the Run” tour taking place July 4^th weekend. Then it was like Philly here I come! After experiencing, what I like to refer to as the BEST concert in my life, I was able to see the “City of Brotherly Love” in a better light. With only a short 2-hour car ride from NYC, it’s perfect if you just want a quick jet away. After checking into our hotel located in the Downtown area near City Hall, my friend Jennel and I began to walk around. Here are just a few must see stops if you’re thinking about traveling to Philly this Spring or Summer. I’ll go into more detail in a later post. 

Check out the murals…they are everywhere. I’ve never seen a city like this! The artistry is another on level and I found myself lost in a daze and on the hunt for the next one. Most of the artwork (not graffiti) can be found on the side of buildings, rooftops, bridges and garages in Philadelphia. The city is a walking art exhibit…just remember to look up and be observant so you don’t miss one. I found quite a few walking towards South Street. Philadelphia’s Magic Garden is also a sight to see. It’s an indoor art exhibit created with mosaic artwork and recyclable materials. It is open daily and is $7 for adults, $5 for students and $3 for children. Lastly, it wouldn’t be a trip to Philly without trying a Philly Cheesesteak . The best place to get a Philly cheesesteak in my opinion is at Jim’s Steaks located on South Street. The wait is long but it will be worth it. 

City Hall in Downtown Philly

The "Love Sign" at the Love Park

Check out this detailed mural

Chicago, Illinois (The Windy City)

The second weekend in July, I was off to Chicago also known as Chi-Town. It was time for my family reunion! I was looking forward to spending quality time with my family and anticipating what this year’s reunion T-shirt would look like. This was also my second time in Chicago. The first time was during my junior year in college. I went during the winter. Listen to me…NEVER visit Chicago during the winter. Most of my time in Chicago was spent with my cousins, uncles and aunts; we laughed, told jokes, shared childhood memories and spoke about our family history.  As a family we had lunch on a yacht that took us around Navy Pier. This is a great way to experience Navy Pier and see the Chicago skyline at the same time. My cousin Dominique and I also took a trip to the infamous Willis Tower later that day. The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is a 108-story skyscraper located in Downtown Chicago and is the second tallest building in the U.S. If you make your way here, go ahead and pay the small entrance fee to visit the observation deck. If you aren’t afraid of heights (I’m not) then check out “The Ledge”. It has a glass floor and you can see everything and I do mean everything!

Chicago's Skyline

The Westbrooks' Family Reunion

At the Skydeck in the Willis Tower

Ft. Lauderdale, FL (Home Sweet Home)

I try to make my way home to Florida at least 2 to 3 times a year. I purchased a multi-city flight this time (I flew from NY to Chicago, from Chicago to Ft. Lauderdale, from Ft. Lauderdale back to NY). Although, this trip home was spent mostly relaxing on my back porch and inside our home with the central air condition, (something that doesn’t exist in most NYC apartments) I was able to squeeze some fun in there. I had breakfast at Cracker Barrel (a southern-styled restaurant where the food will have you coming back for more) with my mom and grandmother. The 3 of us rented a bike-cart and took it for a stroll down Hollywood Beach; this was a new experience for all of us. I was also able to spend time with my bestie, Sophia, at a music and arts festival in Miami. So even if you’re just heading home for a quick visit, do something you’ve never done before in your hometown. 

My grandmother beat me at checkers

Hollywood Beach in Ft. Lauderdale

Washington, D.C. (The Nation’s Capital)

This past August was my mother’s birthday. I can’t share her age because if I did I wouldn’t be alive to share anymore of my travel experiences with you. Nevertheless, as a family we started this new tradition where we travel for her birthday. She’s never been to Washington, D.C. so I was so excited when she told me this is where she wanted to spend her special day. My mother and my step-father flew up from Florida.  I took a Mega Bus down from New York. I’ve been travelling to D.C. since I was 12 years old. Now that I live in NY, I travel there so often it’s like a second home. A round-tip bus ticket is like $22. They wanted a typical “D.C” experience. If you haven’t visited our nation’s capital or if you haven’t been in a long time, I encourage you to do so. It’s a very clean city and all of the museums and monuments are FREE! If you’re a history lover like me this city will keep you intrigued. 

The White House

The view from The Capitol

Inside of the Pentagon

The National Harbor in Maryland

Sitting outside the Library of Congress, it's closed on Sundays

Atlantic City, New Jersey (Life on the Boardwalk)

My last trip of the year was completely random. This was my only “new” city for the year and I was really excited. I’m a strong believer that you should visit or try something new once every year. I heard of Atlantic City many times before and can’t believe after 6 years of living in Manhattan that I’ve never been. It’s dubbed the “Las Vegas” of the east coast. However, if you’ve been to Vegas before, then Atlantic City is NO comparison. I still had a great time. It was only a 2 hour bus ride from Manhattan. I stayed at Harrah’s Resort where I fell in love with their indoor pool with multiple hot tubs. I gambled a little but not that much, went to the comedy show held at Tropicana’s (located on the strip), and had dinner at Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar located in the same hotel. The highlight of my weekend trip to Atlantic City was walking down the boardwalk, stopping by the Atlantic City Historical Museum located at the end of the boardwalk, having dinner at the seafood buffet (Harrah’s Resort) and escaping from New York for 2 short days. I definitely plan on revisiting during the summer time. 

At the end of The Boardwalk!

Took a stroll down The Boardwalk

Just finished having an amazing Cuban dinner



Are you planning any U.S. based trips this upcoming spring or summer? Are any of these cities on your list?