Packing List: Solo Camping And Hiking

by Lindsay Shapka in , ,

Before any trip, I hand write (yes, on physical paper) a packing list. I usually start it about a week out, and add to it up to — and sometimes during — when I actually begin to assemble everything that I am going to take with me.

I usually have a staging area, where I start to gather all of the items, and the from there, I refine and cull things down.

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6 Places to Experience Korean Culture and History in Seoul

by Lindsay Shapka in ,

I lived in the small city of Ansan just outside of Seoul, South Korea (close enough that I was still on the Seoul subway line) for a year and a half while I was working there as an English teacher. Because I was so close, I spent almost every weekend exploring Seoul’s winding historic alleyways, huge high-rises, modern art galleries, curated natural areas, and layer upon layer of food, fashion, and culture.

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What to See, Eat, and Experience in Lisbon, Portugal

by Lindsay Shapka in , , ,

Lisbon is one of my favourite cities in the world! Sun drenched squares, colourful architecture covered in elaborate tiles, charming locals, amazing coffee, bakeries everywhere, amazing views, and easy-to-navigate public transit — what’s not to love!?

Here’s everything you need to see, eat, and experience in Lisbon on your next trip.

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The Jjimjilbang Experience: Getting Naked With The Locals In South Korea

by Lindsay Shapka in ,

When I was first asked by some fellow foreigners in South Korea if I wanted to get naked in a public bathhouse and sauna on my first weekend in the country, I looked at them like they were nuts. 

Somehow though, they managed to talk me into it (I blame severe jet lag), and it was one of the best decisions that I have ever made. 

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8 Lakes to Jump Into in Jasper

by Lindsay Shapka in , ,

Are you in the mood for a spring or autumn polar dip? Looking for a nice cold swim after a long summer hike? Or were you just hoping to dip your feet into crisp glacier water?

Despite being fed by glaciers and icy cold, these crystal clear lakes are the perfect places to cool off on a hot summer day in the mountains. In Jasper — a mountain town in the Rocky Mountains in Canada — temperatures can head well above 30°C (86°F) in the summer.

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