Tourist Destinations That Are More Dangerous Than You Think

You know I am from Kenya and if Yahoo News reports that Kenya is a dangerous tourist destination, I have to talk about it. This is important especially because I travel a lot and I like my country which I travel to all the time. Also, if you are someone planning to go to these countries, please read more on  Tourist Destinations That Are More Dangerous Than You Think.

Dominican Republic 

Stunning white sand beaches and warm crystal clear waters attracts thousands of tourists to this Caribbean paradise each year. However the Dominican Republic can be a very dangerous place for visitors. Foreigners are frequently targeted in criminal acts with reports of as many as 39 tourists being murdered over the past three years. The US State Department warns that the levels of professionalism within the local police is likely to vary wildly from that of the US, with common attempts to solicit bribes being reported along with incidents of them using excessive force.  

Honduras 

This beautiful, tropical and historically rich country is located on the Caribbean coastline of central America. It is a big draw to American tourists due to its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, lush jungles and ancient ruins, attracting tens of thousands of visitors from the US each year. But the country has incredibly high crime rates with 50% of the population (around 3.5 million people) living below the poverty line. In 2012, the UN office on Drugs and Crime rated Honduras as the country with the world’s highest per capita murder rate. Just last year, a Canadian tourist and his stepson were shot and killed while visiting the country.  

Egypt 

Despite Egypt’s long standing reputation as a popular tourist destination,largely due to its spectacular ancient landmarks, the country has become more and more dangerous in recent years for visitors. With the high threat of terrorism and political instability leading to frequent violent protests, the country’s main cities have become unsafe for locals and tourists alike. It has become illegal to photograph police stations, military facilities and other public buildings and law enforcement is indiscriminate during times of protest regarding who they arrest. In November 2011, three American study abroad students, were arrested and accused of being involved in the protests. The three young men were detained in an Egyptian jail for over a week before their release and deportation back to the US. The US State Department advises against travel outside of the city of Cairo. 

Mexico 

Almost 40 million tourists head to Mexico each year for it’s year-round warm climate, spectacular beaches, turquoise water and ancient landmarks. But the country is one of the worst on earth for kidnappings. Violent, organized crime groups operating throughout the country have been responsible for multiple car jackings, kidnappings, robberies and even murders—many of which have involved US citizens. In May this year the US State Department issued a Travel Warning to tourists contemplating a trip south of the border, advising them to be extremely cautious when traveling within the country. Last year almost 1600 kidnapping cases were reported to authorities. 

Kenya 

With it’s spectacular savannas, snow-capped mountains and unrivaled wildlife, Kenya draws visitors, especially safari seekers, from all over the globe. In January, the US Government issued a worldwide caution about the continued threat of terrorist attacks from Islamic extremists across the globe and Kenya was one of the countries highlighted. Terrorists in Kenya have been responsible for bombings and kidnappings involving US citizens in the past couple of years and visitors are advised to be extra cautious when traveling to the country. In April 2014, ISIS militants attacked a convoy in an attempt to kidnap a foreign humanitarian worker and in 2011, two European tourists were kidnapped and another killed within a month of each other. 

India 

Tourists to India are expected to abide by strict local customs and etiquette. As a visitor you are at risk from aggressive retaliation if these guidelines are not followed, especially in more rural areas. The country also struggles with anti-western terrorist activity that targets tourists. Past attacks have targeted public places and tourist attractions. In February 2013, a bus bombing in a commercial area of Bangalore killed 17 and injured 119 bystanders included many foreign nationals. Frequent reports of sexual assault on foreigners have plagued the country and the US State department strongly advises against its female citizens traveling alone there. “Western women, particularly those of African descent, continue to report incidents of verbal and physical harassment by individuals and groups of men,” reads the State Department advisory. “Known locally as ‘eve-testing’, these incidents of sexual harassment can be quite frightening and quickly cross the line from verbal to physical.”  

Healthy Habits

Drink a glass of water before every meal - Everyone needs to drink more water. That's a given. Plus when you drink a glass of water before you eat you'll already feel a little more full and won't be as tempted to eat past the point of hunger.

Eat one really healthy meal - Pick one meal. Just one. Then change what you eat. If it's lunch, eat one portion of protein that fits in the palm of your hand, a vegetable or fruit, and four or five almonds. I know that's not a lot of food, but it's healthier than what you're eating now and, just as important, it lets you take small steps toward better controlling your portions at every meal.

Other examples: Pack a can of tuna and two apples. Or bring a skinless chicken breast and some cucumbers. Just make sure you prepare it ahead of time--that way you won't have to decide to eat healthy. You just will.

Use your lunch to be active - It doesn't take 30 minutes or an hour to eat. So make your lunch break productive. Go for a walk. (Better yet, find a walking buddy or do like LinkedIn's Jeff Weiner and have walking meetings.) Or stretch. Or do some push-ups or sit-ups.

It doesn't matter what you do as long as you do something. You'll burn a few calories, burn off some stress, and feel better when you climb back into the work saddle.

And you'll start to make fitness a part of your daily lifestyle without having to add to your already busy schedule.

Eat one meal-replacement bar - OK, so most protein bars taste like flavored sawdust. But most are also nutritious and low in calories, and they make it easy to stave off the midafternoon hunger pangs you'll inevitably feel after having eaten, say, a light lunch.

Don't get too hung up on nutritional values; just pick a bar that includes 10 or 15 grams of protein (think protein bar, not energy bar) and you'll be fine.

Eating a midmorning or midafternoon meal replacement bar doesn't just bridge the gap between meals; it's an easy way to get in the habit of eating smaller meals more frequently, another habit you'll eventually want to adopt.

And, finally, a bonus habit to toss in once a week:

Have fun completing a physical challenge - It would be great if you could consistently hit the gym four to five days a week, but if you're starting from zero instantly transforming yourself into a gym rat isn't realistic.

My Most Important Lesson - Traveling Solo

Today, I wanted to share with you the most important thing I have learned as a solo female traveler. It has taught me is that anything is possible. 

It’s opened the world for me and made it a smaller and larger place all at the same time. While it’s easier than ever to cross seas and explore new continents with planes and buses and ships, there are so many experiences to be had and so many interesting people to meet. Whether you go to Barcelona or Nairobi, you are going to meet new people.

I’ve gone from blindly believing stereotypes and what I hear on the news to experiencing places and cultures firsthand, creating my own truths. And while I know there are bad people and dangerous places in the world such as the ones I shared here Tourist Destinations That are More Dangerous, being a solo female travel has turned me into an optimist that believes there are many more safe places and people with kind hearts. And I have met so many of them.

Solo travel has taught me how much more worthwhile life can be when you live it to the fullest without regrets. So wake up everyday and pack your bags and be on your way to unknown destinations. Don't wait for your friends to be able to travel with you, just go and enjoy life and trust me, you will learn lessons that you never knew existed.

I have visited cities such as Tokyo, Manilla, Bali, Barcelona, Las Vegas all alone and each and everytime, I have come and met new friends, learned so much and safe all the way.

Would you ever travel solo? If you already have, has the experience taught you any valuable lessons? Please share in the comments below. 

In Other News - U.S President Barack Obama is In Kenya

A big welcome to U. S President Barack Obama to Kenya. We hope you enjoy your visit.

Super Soul Sunday : 30 Things to Start Doing for Yourself

Today I am sharing with a favorite post from my favorite bloggers of all time http://www.marcandangel.com/ and they talk about 30 Things You Should Start Doing For Yourself and for this Super Soul Sunday, I figured I would share this with everyone who is interested in changing their lifestyle and living a happier and healthy life. 

In life, we have so many things that come our way and we have to find time to do things for ourselves. So here are 30 Things To Start Doing For Yourself. I will share a couple of my favorites.

Start spending time with the right people. – These are the people you enjoy, who love and appreciate you, and who encourage you to improve in healthy and exciting ways.  They are the ones who make you feel more alive, and not only embrace who you are now, but also embrace and embody who you want to be, unconditionally.

Start facing your problems head on. – It isn’t your problems that define you, but how you react to them and recover from them.  Problems will not disappear unless you take action.  Do what you can, when you can, and acknowledge what you’ve done.  It’s all about taking baby steps in the right direction, inch by inch.  These inches count, they add up to yards and miles in the long run.

Start being honest with yourself about everything. – Be honest about what’s right, as well as what needs to be changed.  Be honest about what you want to achieve and who you want to become.  Be honest with every aspect of your life, always.  Because you are the one person you can forever count on.  Search your soul, for the truth, so that you truly know who you are.  Once you do, you’ll have a better understanding of where you are now and how you got here, and you’ll be better equipped to identify where you want to go and how to get there.

Start making your own happiness a priority. – Your needs matter.  If you don’t value yourself, look out for yourself, and stick up for yourself, you’re sabotaging yourself.  Remember, it IS possible to take care of your own needs while simultaneously caring for those around you.  And once your needs are met, you will likely be far more capable of helping those who need you most.

Start being yourself, genuinely and proudly. – Trying to be anyone else is a waste of the person you are.  Be yourself.  Embrace that individual inside you that has ideas, strengths and beauty like no one else.  Be the person you know yourself to be – the best version of you – on your terms.  Above all, be true to YOU, and if you cannot put your heart in it, take yourself out of it.

Start noticing and living in the present. – Right now is a miracle.  Right now is the only moment guaranteed to you.  Right now is life.  So stop thinking about how great things will be in the future.  Stop dwelling on what did or didn’t happen in the past.  Learn to be in the ‘here and now’ and experience life as it’s happening.  Appreciate the world for the beauty that it holds, right now.

Start valuing the lessons your mistakes teach you. – Mistakes are okay; they’re the stepping stones of progress.  If you’re not failing from time to time, you’re not trying hard enough and you’re not learning.  Take risks, stumble, fall, and then get up and try again.  Appreciate that you are pushing yourself, learning, growing and improving.  Significant achievements are almost invariably realized at the end of a long road of failures.  One of the ‘mistakes’ you fear might just be the link to your greatest achievement yet.

Start being more polite to yourself. – If you had a friend who spoke to you in the same way that you sometimes speak to yourself, how long would you allow that person to be your friend?  The way you treat yourself sets the standard for others.  You must love who you are or no one else will

Start enjoying the things you already have. – The problem with many of us is that we think we’ll be happy when we reach a certain level in life – a level we see others operating at – your boss with her corner office, that friend of a friend who owns a mansion on the beach, etc.  Unfortunately, it takes awhile before you get there, and when you get there you’ll likely have a new destination in mind.  You’ll end up spending your whole life working toward something new without ever stopping to enjoy the things you have now.  So take a quiet moment every morning when you first awake to appreciate where you are and what you already have.

Start creating your own happiness. – If you are waiting for someone else to make you happy, you’re missing out.  Smile because you can.  Choose happiness.  Be the change you want to see in the world.  Be happy with who you are now, and let your positivity inspire your journey into tomorrow.  Happiness is often found when and where you decide to seek it.  If you look for happiness within the opportunities you have, you will eventually find it.  But if you constantly look for something else, unfortunately, you’ll find that too.   

Start giving your ideas and dreams a chance. – In life, it’s rarely about getting a chance; it’s about taking a chance.  You’ll never be 100% sure it will work, but you can always be 100% sure doing nothing won’t work.  Most of the time you just have to go for it!  And no matter how it turns out, it always ends up just the way it should be.  Either you succeed or you learn something.  Win-Win.

Start entering new relationships for the right reasons. – Enter new relationships with dependable, honest people who reflect the person you are and the person you want to be.  Choose friends you are proud to know, people you admire, who show you love and respect – people who reciprocate your kindness and commitment.  And pay attention to what people do, because a person’s actions are much more important than their words or how others represent them. 

Start giving new people you meet a chance. – It sounds harsh, but you cannot keep every friend you’ve ever made.  People and priorities change.  As some relationships fade others will grow.  Appreciate the possibility of new relationships as you naturally let go of old ones that no longer work.  Trust your judgment.  Embrace new relationships, knowing that you are entering into unfamiliar territory.  Be ready to learn, be ready for a challenge, and be ready to meet someone that might just change your life forever. 

Start competing against an earlier version of yourself. – Be inspired by others, appreciate others, learn from others, but know that competing against them is a waste of time.  You are in competition with one person and one person only – yourself.  You are competing to be the best you can be.  Aim to break your own personal records.   

Start cheering for other people’s victories. – Start noticing what you like about others and tell them.  Having an appreciation for how amazing the people around you are leads to good places – productive, fulfilling, peaceful places.  So be happy for those who are making progress.  Cheer for their victories.  Be thankful for their blessings, openly.  What goes around comes around, and sooner or later the people you’re cheering for will start cheering for you. 

Start looking for the silver lining in tough situations. – When things are hard, and you feel down, take a few deep breaths and look for the silver lining – the small glimmers of hope.  Remind yourself that you can and will grow stronger from these hard times.  And remain conscious of your blessings and victories – all the things in your life that are right.  Focus on what you have, not on what you haven’t. 

Start forgiving yourself and others. – We’ve all been hurt by our own decisions and by others.  And while the pain of these experiences is normal, sometimes it lingers for too long.  We relive the pain over and over and have a hard time letting go.  Forgiveness is the remedy.  It doesn’t mean you’re erasing the past, or forgetting what happened.  It means you’re letting go of the resentment and pain, and instead choosing to learn from the incident and move on with your life. 

Start helping those around you. – Care about people.  Guide them if you know a better way.  The more you help others, the more they will want to help you.  Love and kindness begets love and kindness.  And so on and so forth. 

Start listening to your own inner voice. – If it helps, discuss your ideas with those closest to you, but give yourself enough room to follow your own intuition.  Be true to yourself.  Say what you need to say.  Do what you know in your heart is right. 

Start being attentive to your stress level and take short breaks. – Slow down.  Breathe.  Give yourself permission to pause, regroup and move forward with clarity and purpose.  When you’re at your busiest, a brief recess can rejuvenate your mind and increase your productivity.  These short breaks will help you regain your sanity and reflect on your recent actions so you can be sure they’re in line with your goals. 

Start noticing the beauty of small moments. – Instead of waiting for the big things to happen – marriage, kids, big promotion, winning the lottery – find happiness in the small things that happen every day.  Little things like having a quiet cup of coffee in the early morning, or the delicious taste and smell of a homemade meal, or the pleasure of sharing something you enjoy with someone else, or holding hands with your partner.  Noticing these small pleasures on a daily basis makes a big difference in the quality of your life. 

Start accepting things when they are less than perfect. – Remember, ‘perfect’ is the enemy of ‘good.’  One of the biggest challenges for people who want to improve themselves and improve the world is learning to accept things as they are.  Sometimes it’s better to accept and appreciate the world as it is, and people as they are, rather than to trying to make everything and everyone conform to an impossible ideal.  No, you shouldn’t accept a life of mediocrity, but learn to love and value things when they are less than perfect. 

Start working toward your goals every single day. – Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.  Whatever it is you dream about, start taking small, logical steps every day to make it happen.  Get out there and DO something!  The harder you work the luckier you will become.  While many of us decide at some point during the course of our lives that we want to answer our calling, only an astute few of us actually work on it.  By ‘working on it,’ I mean consistently devoting oneself to the end result.   

Start being more open about how you feel. – If you’re hurting, give yourself the necessary space and time to hurt, but be open about it.  Talk to those closest to you.  Tell them the truth about how you feel.  Let them listen.  The simple act of getting things off your chest and into the open is your first step toward feeling good again. 

Start taking full accountability for your own life. – Own your choices and mistakes, and be willing to take the necessary steps to improve upon them.  Either you take accountability for your life or someone else will.  And when they do, you’ll become a slave to their ideas and dreams instead of a pioneer of your own.  You are the only one who can directly control the outcome of your life.  And no, it won’t always be easy.  Every person has a stack of obstacles in front of them.  But you must take accountability for your situation and overcome these obstacles.  Choosing not to is choosing a lifetime of mere existence. 

Start actively nurturing your most important relationships. – Bring real, honest joy into your life and the lives of those you love by simply telling them how much they mean to you on a regular basis.  You can’t be everything to everyone, but you can be everything to a few people.  Decide who these people are in your life and treat them like royalty.  Remember, you don’t need a certain number of friends, just a number of friends you can be certain of. 

Start concentrating on the things you can control. – You can’t change everything, but you can always change something.  Wasting your time, talent and emotional energy on things that are beyond your control is a recipe for frustration, misery and stagnation.  Invest your energy in the things you can control, and act on them now. 

Start focusing on the possibility of positive outcomes. – The mind must believe it CAN do something before it is capable of actually doing it.  The way to overcome negative thoughts and destructive emotions is to develop opposing, positive emotions that are stronger and more powerful.  Listen to your self-talk and replace negative thoughts with positive ones.  Regardless of how a situation seems, focus on what you DO WANT to happen, and then take the next positive step forward.  No, you can’t control everything that happens to you, but you can control how you react to things.  Everyone’s life has positive and negative aspects – whether or not you’re happy and successful in the long run depends greatly on which aspects you focus on.   

Start noticing how wealthy you are right now. – Henry David Thoreau once said, “Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.”  Even when times are tough, it’s always important to keep things in perspective.  You didn’t go to sleep hungry last night.  You didn’t go to sleep outside.  You had a choice of what clothes to wear this morning.  You hardly broke a sweat today.  You didn’t spend a minute in fear.  You have access to clean drinking water.  You have access to medical care.  You have access to the Internet.  You can read.  Some might say you are incredibly wealthy, so remember to be grateful for all the things you do have.

So what will you start doing for yourself today? Happy Super Soul Sunday!

Recipe - Sangrias

Because of my love for Spain, I do enjoy a good Sangria and I am sharing with you guys two of my favorite recipes.

Sparkling Peach Sangria

This peachy keen version has extra bubbles without extra booze or calories, thanks to sparkling water. Psst: pick "Brut" Prosecco or Cava for the lowest sugar.

SERVES: 8

1 peach-flavored or plain vodka
4 peaches cut into bite-sized chunks
1 bottle "Brut" Prosecco or Cava
1 500 ml (16.9 oz) bottle sparkling water or club soda

1. COMBINE vodka and peaches in a carafe and refrigerate at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

2. WHEN ready to serve, add the Prosecco and sparkling water and gently stir. Serve immediately.

NUTRITION (per serving) 160 cal, 1 g pro, 8 g carb, 1 g fiber, 6 g sugars, 0 g fat, 0 g sat fat, 15 mg sodium

Cherry Sangria

Not only is red wine loaded with the healthy antioxidant resveratrol, antioxidant-rich tart cherry juice also contains melatonin, which may may help you sleep better.

SERVES: 8

2 c frozen pitted cherries
1 c halved red grapes
2 small oranges, sliced into thin rounds
1 c tart cherry juice
1 bottle red wine

1. MIX together all ingredients in a pitcher. Refrigerate at least 4 hours before serving.

2. SERVE over ice.

NUTRITION (per serving) 130 cal, 1 g pro, 15 g carb, 1 g fiber, 11 g sugars, 0 g fat, 0 g sat fat, 5 mg sodium

Enjoy and don't forget they are healthy too

11 Things to Quit Immediately - According to Huff Post

Don't blame me, I have been reading too much Huff Post and I had to share this article 11 Things to Quit Immediately.

1. Quit resisting change.

Change is a necessary part of progress and growth and happiness and life! When we resist change we are essentially denying the opportunity for more love and abundance and amazing things to come into our lives. Change has to happen if you want to reach a goal. It has to happen if you want to advance in your career. Change has to happen in order for your kids to grow and thrive. So quit resisting the inevitable! You have the power to guide those changes into a future that is incredible.

2. Quit thinking you can control everything in your life.

This comes right after no. 1 because it is necessary to be clear on what you CAN change. You can change yourself, your thoughts, your feelings, your actions, but you can't change anyone else. You can't change the weather, the stock market, or your parent's deep seated beliefs. When you go around trying to control other people's behavior you will only be disappointed. When you try to manipulate a situation it only leads to frustration. Just stay in control of your own self, and everything else around you will fall in line.

3. Quit making excuses.

When we get down to it, excuses are just so lame. Everyone else can see that you are making excuses to buy time, or to keep procrastinating, or just avoid doing something that you are afraid of doing. Excuses are a huge waste of energy. Decide to do the thing or decide to not do the thing and move on.

4. Quit blaming other people.

No one else is preventing you from getting what you want. You are 100 percent responsible for your own life. Other people are not putting thoughts in your head or barriers on your progress. In actuality, there are far more people out there who want to see you soar to success then people who want to see you fail or hold you back. Surround yourself with people who believe in your dreams. 

5. Quit complaining.

This is another huge waste of your precious time. When you are complaining you are focusing on what you don't want and all the things you don't like. Guess what? What we focus on expands...and if your focus is on all the things you just hate those are the exact things that you will get more of. Your power of focus can be used to bring in more of what you do want. The key is to concentrate on the good, the positive, and the life-affirming things.

6. Quit criticizing.

This happens when we mistakenly believe in perfection. If you tend to find faults in every little thing, or every person that you meet, you will never be able to feel truly happy. Criticism is super negative and judgmental. If you are in the habit of pointing out faults, try to switch the habit to finding the positive attributes. Everyone is doing the best they can with what they have. Perfection is a myth...but beauty is everywhere. Search for that instead. 

7. Quit telling so many negative stories to yourself.

All those stories that you have rolling around in your head become your life. If you are constantly telling yourself how much you suck, how you should be better, how you screwed up this that or the other thing you will keep undermining your happiness. To be happy, you must be able to tell the story of how everything is working out in your favor. You must tell the story of how much you are looking forward to that bright future that is in store for you. And then watch how things change....

8. Quit needing to always be right.

This is a function of ego. If you are always trying to prove to everyone else how right you are, soon there won't be many left to tell. No one likes to be put down, or argued with, or shown how you are always right and they are always wrong. The need to always be right ruins relationships and leaves you isolated. Compassion works way better.

9. Quit putting labels on things.

Again, this is about letting go of judgements. Letting go of needing to control others. When you find yourself labeling people and things and religions and whatever, its really just trying to understand them in relation to things that you have already experienced personally. We label things in order to try to make sense of our world. But the world is full of mystery and variety and 7 billion people's dreams and identities. Labeling makes the world smaller, but is that what you really want?

10. Quit fantasizing over the past.

Most of us have a tendency to either relive past experiences or create future scenarios in our mind all day long. It's a shame, because life is actually happening in the present moment. In this very breath you are taking in. Just this one. And if your mind is focused on the past and perhaps feeling regret or loss or anger over how things went down it is negatively affecting your present state. Please, do yourself a favor and say goodbye to the past. It had to happen the way it did for you to become who you are today. Today you have gifts to offer the world because of what you know, this is what to focus on now.

11. Quit living your life for other people.

Your life is unique. There is not another person on Earth who sees things the same as you or who has your beautiful insights. There are so many people who are living their life trying to please everyone else, or trying to fit in, or trying to prove their worth based on the standards of others. When you can start to incorporate everything I mentioned above, you can show up as a powerful and positive force in the world! You start showing up as YOU and living the life that only you can. Letting go of the past, of blame and guilt and shame and criticism of yourself and others frees you up to start making a positive impact. You can feel love and trust and happiness when you leave the need to control and the fear of failing behind.

Traveling in 2015 - According to Huff Post

Have been to almost all these places and I figured for those interested in traveling in 2015 now that we still have 6 months left in the year, to check this places out. You can read more on Destinations to Watch in 2015

"Ready for a vacation that makes the most of 2015? Here's where it's at in the coming year.

Japan

Three years after its devastating earthquake and tsunami, Japan is back and looking forward to hosting the world during the 2020 Summer Olympics. New service, big openings and a may-not-last-for-long affordable twist mean that 2015 will be a great year to embrace the intoxicating swirl of tradition and modernity that makes the country a visitor favorite.

It's not every year that Japan celebrates a whole new Shinkansen (bullet train) route, so the March debut of the Tokyo-to-Kanazawa fast train is big news. Cutting the travel time in half, the Hokuriku Shinkansen will traverse the beautiful coastal route in about two and a half hours. The quick trip from Tokyo is sure to put Kanazawa—known best for its castle gardens, lacquerware traditions, standout cuisine and internationally renowned museum of modern art—on the radars of more visitors who have limited time but boundless curiosity.

In Tokyo, new hotels are getting a jump on the boom that's set to reshape the city's skyline between now and the Olympic Games in five years. 2015 openings include Aman Tokyo, Hotel Unizo, Tokyu Stay Shimbashi, Hotel Sunroute Ginza and a Richmond Hotel.

The favorable exchange rate means greater affordability for Americans in Japan right now and likely into the coming year as well. And around the country, as cities and towns begin preparations for the Olympics and beyond, expect to find more value- and convenience-boosting offerings, such as free Wi-Fi in  public squares and a boost in free visitors' centers (some operated by local governments, others by developments or local associations) with English-language offerings.

Next spring also brings the full reopening of Himeji Castle, one of the most famous in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage site. And 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, making it a particularly powerful year to pay a visit to the haunting and educational peace parks and museums in both cities.

England

Let's put it this way: If Heathrow blared the "Happy Birthday" song on repeat all year long, it would not be unjustified. With big anniversaries and celebrations to match, 2015 is set to be a fun, playful and educational year in England.

The biggest birthday is the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta. In celebration, the four original copies of the iconic document (plus an original copy of the U.S. Bill of Rights) will come together for a limited time at the British Library. In addition, the British Library will host a Magna Carta exhibition from March to September and Magna Carta trails will lead visitors around England. 2015 also brings the 150th birthday of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. The Story Museum in Oxford is hosting a special Alice's Day on July 4. The English Riviera will celebrate the 125th anniversary of Agatha Christie's birth, and around the country, events will commemorate the 50th anniversary of Winston Churchill's death.

Cities will take center stage in 2015. Bristol, for instance, will take on the title of 2015 European Green Capital. Throughout the year, the city will host events, including the Big Green Week and Bristol's Biggest Bike Ride. And 10 cities around England, including Brighton, Gloucester and Leeds, will host the Rugby World Cup 2015.

Milan, Italy

Since the 1850s, World's Fairs—now more commonly known as expos—have been bringing the world together. In 2015, more than 130 countries will convene in Milan for Expo 2015 Milano. From May 1 through October 31, Milan will give more than 247 acres to the event, focused on the theme "Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life." An expected 20 million visitors from around the world will get a taste of the foods and traditions of the world. Countries will also highlight their food-sustainability efforts and debut technological innovations.

Milan is gearing up to be host to the world with new parks, pedestrian zones, bike trails and other infrastructure improvements. It's also putting into place some new citywide technologies, including smart city wireless technology that offers not just Expo 2015 information but also free Wi-Fi zones and city information available to smartphone users.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto is getting ready for its time in the spotlight as host to the massive Pan American Games. A new airport link will benefit both game goers and travelers starting mid-year.

The 41 nations participating in the Pan American Games will converge on Toronto this coming July for two weeks of competitions in nearly 50 sports. Diving, gymnastics, swimming, sailing, pentathlon and figure skating are on the schedule. Like the Olympics, the Pan Am Games happen only once every four years and feature an over-the-top opening ceremony, but unlike the Olympics, these games are priced to be affordable, with more than 75 percent of tickets costing $45 or less.

Heavy traffic has long made the drive to and from Toronto Pearson Airport a headache. But with the 2015 opening of the Union Pearson Express, travelers will be able to hop an express train and get from downtown to the airport in a predictable 25 minutes. The train will be up and running in time for Toronto's turn as the host of next summer's Pan American Games.

Los Angeles, California

Need a new reason to head to Los Angeles? How about three? With a boost in air service, new (gasp!) train service connecting downtown and the beach and a new contemporary art museum, 2015 will be a great year to visit LA.

American Airlines is showing its commitment to LAX as a hub by debuting new service to more than a dozen destinations—including West Palm Beach, Indianapolis and Hartford—in the coming months. In 2015, the city will not only be easier to get to but it will also be easier to get around in once you arrive. Los Angeles has been slowly expanding its metro system, connecting more of the massive metropolis through light rail. In 2015, the Expo Line expansion will reach the Pacific Ocean and tourist favorite Santa Monica.

Fall will bring the opening of the Broad Museum. With its eye-catching honeycomb exterior (designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, which also designed Boston's Institute of Contemporary Art) and 2,000 works of postwar and contemporary art, the museum will add a whole new dimension to downtown.

Greece

For years, the threat of financial ruin and an unsettled population have kept travelers away from Greece. But 2014 brought a shift in the tide, as vacationers, discouraged in part by high prices in nearby Italy, looked east for that intoxicating Mediterranean blend of history, beaches and fabulous food. The result has been record increases in visitor numbers—a trend that seems set to continue in the new year.

After six consecutive years of recession, Greece is expecting budgetary surplus and growth in 2015. Tourism is a large part of that turnaround, and as tourists return, their dollars are fueling the country's economic recovery.

So aside from its usual charms, what does Greece offer visitors in 2015? Great value for money, and, according to Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni, the eventual lowering of taxes in the tourism sector, which should boost affordability even more. What's more, Greek carrier Aegean Airlines (a Star Alliance member) has expanded its service to both international destinations (including a number of European hubs) and destinations within Greece. This makes getting to smaller cities and islands within the country both easier and more affordable.

Atlanta, Georgia

This coming year is going to be a fun one in Atlanta. With new transportation options, new attractions and new shopping destinations, the city is making itself irresistible to travelers looking for a fresh and novel getaway.

The much-anticipated Atlanta Streetcar is about to make its grand debut. The streetcar will make a 2.7-mile loop around downtown, connecting major sights and centrally located hotels.

The newly opened Center for Civil and Human Rights adds another high-profile attraction to downtown's Pemberton Place, alongside the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. And the airport-adjacent Porsche Driving Experience, complete with a test track, will open in the next few months as well.

Two big openings on the retail front offer new reasons to explore the city in 2015. The upscale streets of Atlanta's Buckhead neighborhood will continue to see new shops, restaurants and cafes opening next year. And Ponce City Market  will house a food hall, plus activities such as rooftop mini golf and bocce. And since the historic structure will also include office space and apartments, it will likely draw both locals and visitors.

Mons, Belgium

We're really on board with European Capitals of Culture. Competing for the title often leads to infrastructure improvements and new hotels, museums and attractions. And winning the honor guarantees a year of cool and unique activities that are perfect for visitors.

This year, Mons, Belgium, is one of two cities distinguished as a European Capital of Culture. The UNESCO-heritage-rich city will host 300 events drawing on the visions of 5,000 artists and inaugurate five new interconnected museums. Mons has also debuted two new concert halls to stage events during the year. With so much to offer, the city—just 40 minutes from Brussels—is set to be a major draw for visitors in 2015 and beyond.

Plzen, Czech Republic

Historically known as a city of industry and beer, Plzen (also spelled Pilsen) in the Czech Republic will make its name as a European Capital of Culture in 2015. In anticipation of the year, the city is reinvigorating public spaces, building a new theater and opening the Svetovar Culture Factory, a multifunctional creative center that includes performance spaces, community event spaces, live-art programs and artist residences.

And while visitors will still be able to find plenty of great beer in Plzen, they'll also be treated to a year of exhibitions, concerts, theater, dance, festivals and public art. Events kick off in mid-January and run through the end of the year. And the spirit of the year will continue at least through the end of the decade, thanks to funding that makes cultural development a part of the city's long-term plan."

 

Super Soul Sunday - 7 Little Habits that Stole Your Happiness Yesterday

Today, I want to share with you an article from marcandangel titled 7 Little Habits that Stole Your Happiness Yesterday. Reason why I am sharing this with you is because I am one person who always bothered by some of the things mentioned on this post. So take a moment, read it and let me know your thoughts.

"Learn to value yourself, which means: fight for your happiness and peace of mind.

 

1.  Letting every little problem get the best of you.

 

Inner peace begins the moment you take a deep breath and choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions.

In other words, the greater part of your happiness or misery in the long run depends on your attitude, not your circumstances.  If you’re stressed out by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself, but to your interpretation of it; and this is something you have the power to change at any moment.

Just take that deep breath, adjust your attitude, and the frustration and stress is gone.

2.  Expecting the day to be easy and everything to go as planned.

 

Easy days don’t exist when you’re doing amazing things.  Good goals require hard work.  Your days may be enjoyable, but there will always be unexpected obstacles.  Expecting otherwise just leads to unnecessary headaches and heartache.

Decades from now when you’re resting on your deathbed, you will not remember the days that were easy, you will cherish the moments when you rose above your difficulties and conquered goals of magnitude.  You will dream of the strength you found within yourself that allowed you to achieve what once seemed impossible.

So don’t do what’s easy, do what you’re capable of today.  Astound yourself with your own greatness.

3.  Wanting your efforts to be absolutely perfect.

 

Every one of us is a perfectionist about something.  Learn to sense when your desire to make something perfect is preventing you from getting it done well.  Realize that the idea of perfection is not only unachievable, it can destroy your otherwise productive mindset.  It will keep you running in place, feeling insane for your entire life.

If you feel like you’re running in place right now, take a break and reflect.  Think about the difference between diligent effort and perfectionism.  Know when enough is enough!

Say it out loud if you must:  “Get lost perfectionism!  Without you I am brilliant!”  (Read The Gifts of Imperfection.)

4.  Lacking presence.

 

Isn’t it strange how life works?  You want something and you work for it and wait for it and work for it and wait for it, and you feel like it’s taking forever to arrive.  Then it happens and it’s over and all you want to do is curl back up in that moment before things changed.

So, how can you avoid these feelings of loss and confusion?

By being more present every step of the way.

Pursue your goals and dreams while at the same time enjoying the journey of getting there.  Embrace the step you’re taking, even when you feel like you’ve lost your footing.  Sometimes the road gets bumpy.  Every step doesn’t have to be comfortable or perfectly placed.

By letting go of what “should” happen or what “could” happen every step of the way, you free up your life to various little surprises and joys.  You may not lead the exact life you want, but you will lead a meaningful, miraculous existence, guaranteed.  Life is sometimes difficult, but it’s not a chore.  Make it an adventure.  Make it fun.  Make the choice to feel good about yourself, about your world, about your possibilities and the step you’re taking right now.

Do so and you’ll smile all the way to the finish line, and beyond.

5.  Disempowering yourself with weak language.

 

Confident people use words with intention.  And you can be one of them.

Consider the difference between these two aspiring bloggers (and coaching students) I recently spoke with:

One says:  “Yes, I am a blogger.  You like meditation and yoga too?  Excellent!  We need to connect on this subject – check out my new mindfulness guide I just posted at…”

And the other says:  “Well, I’m trying to blog but am not sure I’m doing it right (nervous giggle).  I wish I had started sooner… blah, blah.”

Who do you think gets the most views, comments and social shares?

Bottom line:  If you’re trying to build something or become something, own it and speak like you mean it.  (Angel and I discuss this in detail in the “Passion and Growth” chapter of 1,000 Little Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently.)

6.  Expecting everyone else to be as kind, courteous and caring as you are.

 

Perhaps a harsh truth…

You will end up very disappointed if you expect people will always do for you as you do for them.

Not everyone has the same heart as you.

7.  Being too rigid (or too “mature”) to lose yourself in playful exploration.

 

Sometimes we put too much weight into trying to control every tiny aspect of our lives.  Switch gears, relax and ride the path that life takes you sometimes.  Try something new, be a bit daring, and explore your curiosity.  Letting go a little lets you experience the unexpected.

The greatest joys in life are often the unexpected surprises that you never intended to happen.  If you want to get really good at something, let go of the notion of perfection and replace it with the notion of endless playful exploration.

We don’t stop dreaming and exploring because we grow old; we grow old because we stop dreaming and exploring.

Afterthoughts

 

And whatever you do, don’t live with yesterday’s stress, live beyond it.  You cannot stop what has already happened, but you can let it make you stronger and more determined.  The journey to emotional clarity requires that you review the events in your life to find the wisdom and purpose they contain.

A time will inevitably come in your life when you finally get it.  When in the midst of all your hesitation and frustration you stop dead in your tracks and somewhere the voice inside your head cries out, “ENOUGH!”  This is the turning point that ultimately leads to healing and growth.

So as we begin a new day, close the door on your past, open the door to your future, take a deep breath, take a step forward, and start a new chapter in your life.

Your turn…

 

What stole your happiness and peace of mind yesterday?  What changes do you want to make going forward?  Leave a comment below and share your thoughts."

To read more life changing advices, go to marcandangel.com

Kenya - Seriously Uhuru!

I know its not news, but apparently Polygamy is now legal in Kenya. In 2015, we are still resorting to things that are not helping us. I am always a positive person but when the President of the country I am from does stupid shit, I have to have a voice. 

Uhuru signed a bill in 2014 allowing for Kenyan men to marry as many women as thy want without consulting their wives in this age of AIDS, divorces and sexually transmitted diseases.

For a modern woman like me who dislikes men who cheat, this clearly is not something that I like. It is going to be interesting to see how things turn out in the next couple of years and maybe when Kenya gets a new President, we can be able to delete this Bill from our lives.

Shoes and More Shoes!

My mentor bought me this wall art that says,                    

So what is it about women and shoes and mostly me? All who know me knows what I love most besides God and traveling: SHOES!                                

Flats, heels, boots, ballets, sandals, clogs, platforms, wedges, strappy, buckled, lace-ups, peep-toes, I own and love them all.

I love shoes, desire and lust after them. I feel my heart race when I look at good shoes. When I am considering buying a new pair of shoes, I feel this exhilarating power.  And I feel a jolt of joy when I wear them the first time. For me, I always know I need a new pair of shoes even when I don’t need one and when I am shopping for a new house, apartment or place to stay, my shoes and where to keep them is a priority of the place I choose to stay. Sometimes when I think about the things I would scramble to grab if my house were on fire, I think about my shoes. And let’s not forget I buy extra insurance for my apartment just because of my shoes. BTW, did you know Nine West has a channel on Youtube called Shoe Hoarders? Check it out here

And as I know, I am not the only one woman who feels this way about shoes. Most women love their shoes. And for me, I think I own more than 300 or maybe 500 pairs of shoes.  You remember Sex and The City and Carrie’s obsession with shoes? Sex and the City gave permission for women to come out of the closet about shoes. Though I think my passion for shoes goes much deeper. A great pair of shoes instantly changes my mood for the better. Putting on high heels lengthens my shape, changes the curve of my posture, evokes an inner feeling of confidence and sexiness like putting on a smile can make us feel happy. We are suddenly, taller, thinner and shapelier. A pair of stilettos pushes that all out even further. And the higher the better! Shoes transform the way I wear a dress or a skirt.

Most women will tell you that they love their shoes because of the way they make them feel. And many women are willing to play with shoes in a way they don’t play with other parts of their wardrobe. There is not better feeling than when you find an awesome pair of shoes and knowing they are yours to keep forever. Heaven!

Shoes provide the foundation for the image that we want to broadcast to the world.  We wear them as a way to play with aspects of our identity in a less committed way than any other visible marker such as a haircut or color. We can change that message every day or more if we choose. A pair or flats of Berkenstocks shows our groundedness, pumps tell the world we are all business and high leather boots declare toughness. And black shoes, changes everything in our wardrobe because it can go with anything.

I own all types of shoes and various designers. I saved up to buy pairs of Louboutin’s and Jimmy Choo’s, because every woman has to own red bottoms but mostly, my closet is full of Aldo shoes because I love them so much. They are comfortable, their prices are not bad and I can just afford them. But then again, I can’t afford most shoes I buy and yet I continue to buy them. And you know what’s funny, when I am shopping for a dress, top or skirt jeans, I always think of which shoes to wear with it before anything else.

So why do you love shoes so much? Let’s discuss!

Drinking Water in the Morning - Health Habits

I started this habit a couple of months ago and ever since then, it has been one of the best things I have incorporated in my healthy lifestyle – drinking water the first thing in the morning when I wake up. 

The benefits of drinking water in the morning go beyond the physical, though: I find that having a glass of water right after I wake up makes me feel as if I’ve kicked off the day on the right foot. Water fires up your metabolism, hydrates you, helps your body flush out toxins, gives your brain fuel, and may even make you eat less.

And we all know it is said that we should drink about 7 to 8 glasses of water daily. 

And if you don’t like to drink plain water, then try squeezing some lemon or lime juice into your morning water. 

So why do we need to drink water in the Morning?

• 70% of the human body content is water, and so water plays an important role in the proper functioning of your body.
• The human brain cells contain about 85% of water.
• 75% of muscles is water
• Bones also contain about 25% water
• 82% of blood consists of water.

It is also helpful to consume foods that contain lots of water; for example soups (broth-based), vegetables and fruits. And for me, I sort this by drinking lots of smoothies throughout the day.

What are the benefits of drinking water in the morning?

It is a long known secret that drinking water as soon as you get up, i.e. before eating anything, is a good way to purify your internal system. One of the most important results of undergoing this treatment is colon cleansing, which enables better absorption of nutrients from various foods. Drinking water the first thing in the morning has the following benefits:

1. Make your skin glow. Water is known to purge toxins from your blood, and as a result you get glowing skin.

2. Renew cells. Drinking water first thing in the morning increases the rate at which new muscle and blood cells are produced.

3. Balance the lymph system. When you drink water first thing in the morning on a daily basis, you help balance your body’s lymph system. Lymph glands found in your lymph system fight infections helping you to perform your daily activities. They also balance the fluids in your body.

4. Lose weight. When you consume about 16 ounces of water (chilled), you will boost your body’s metabolism by abut 24% thus help you lose those extra pounds.

5. Purify the colon. When you drink water after you have woken up before eating anything, you are purifying your colon thereby making nutrients absorption easy.

6. Cures illnesses and diseases. Drinking water first thing in the morning has been proven to cure illnesses such as vomiting, throat disease, menstrual and cancer disorders, eye diseases, diarrhea, urine disease, kidney disease, meningitis, TB, Arthritis, headaches among others.

How to drink Water in the Morning for Best Results

• Drink 1.5 liters (5/6 glasses) of water immediately after waking up.
• Avoid drinking or eating anything else for an hour before and after drinking the water.
• Do not drink beverages that contain alcohol the previous night (I never follow this though)