IDEA167: Let a Horse Teach You to Be a Better Leader

Did you know horses can read our minds? Or better said, they can sense how we feel even when we ourselves are unaware of some deep internal turmoil that might be causing havoc in our life or our work without us knowing the reason for it. 

Recently I had a chance to see first hand how these fascinating animals can sense our emotions and make us more aware.  My friend Jane of knowboundaries, an Equine Assisted Coach, invited me to see one of her equine assisted coaching sessions. It is a form of coaching where you work on getting to the next level of personal and professional success by interacting with horses.

So one windy day I caught a bus from the bustling Amsterdam Central Station to a picturesque Dutch village. It was only a 15 minute ride to Broek in Waterland. Stepping off the bus in a green little village with water canals, wooden bridges and colorful houses surrounded by fields...felt like a getaway. 

At the stables De Drie Merrien, I met with Jane and Ulo, her beautiful horse. Her coaching client was there as well, whose objective was to breakthrough to be a better leader in her business. 

It's amazing to think that we might have involuntary reactions in certain situations. We might be snapping at our family members over some annoyance. We may be affecting our team negatively with our worries without even realizing it. If we were aware that our automatic emotions were affecting and even hurting others we would probably change the way we react. But how can horses help?

Of all animals, horses are extremely sensitive and mirror our own emotions. This is because they are prey animals and their nervous system is highly in tune with what's happening around them. They can sense emotions through the smell that we emit and the tiny vibrations that are caused by the beating of our hearts.

Did you know that when we're happy and calm we smell differently then when we're stressed, angry or anxious?

The coaching session did not involve galloping at high speeds. Under Jane's guidance, her client walked with Ulo. Jane asked questions about her client's work and as she responded it became obvious where the anxieties laid. Ulo would move her head or try to walk away in the opposite direction. She immediately sensed any discomfort coming from her human coachee. 

It's not a new concept that a horse is a great companion and helper. People used to be around horses a lot, working in fields with them, transporting things or traveling on their backs weather in the country or in the cities. Then gradually over the last century, we have been replacing nature and all living things with objects that perform on demand for us. We think of it as gaining effeciency and productivity but in the end we are slowly loosing the enchantment with anything living. Even ourselves. 

More and more we replace real face time with phone and social media "facetime" as we apply the same "on demand" approach to people. Why are we morphing into these strange beings?  The Biophilia Hypothesis suggests that losing our connection with nature is what's causing us to stop feeling a part of the natural circle, diminishing our sense of responsible for doing our part in protecting fellow living things. And so we are letting our whole planet waste away. Why do we care anyway, we'll just build ourselves a NEW hi-tech planet right!? Ops...

So how can we connect with nature? 
What can we do daily to be more in tune with what's happening around us?

We have to do it the slow "inefficient" way, and simply get out into the natural world! Spend more time outdoors observing animals. Go on a horse ride. And why not bring a friend along and TALK to them in real life. When was the last time you stood close to a horse. They're big and tall...and their eyes are knowing. Seems like they want to tell us a secret...

Don't worry all is not lost. Nature is patiently waiting for us to find our way back. Look at your week and schedule in at least a few hours to connect with it. If you are near Amsterdam, grab a few friends and head over to the countryside for some nature, horses and local delicacies. 

Thank you Jane and Ulo for letting us get to know these amazing animals better and re-igniting our natural drive to get closer to nature! 

NATURE BREAK IN BROEK IN WATERLAND

Arrive: (15 minute bus ride from Amsterdam Central Station) Broek in Waterland 
Riding Manege: De Drie Merrien 
Coaching Session with Horses: Know Boundaries with Jane
Rent a boat or kayak: Fluisterboot Varen 
Lunch: De Witte Swaen for Dutch Pancakes

PHOTO CREDITS: ALLA FELDMAN

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*Weekend Pass* to Saying YES in Anguilla with Mu-Hsien of Live Like You're Traveling

Hello neighbors! @mu_hsien, one of the founders here at LLYT...and for our very first *Weekend Pass* ~ I’ll be sharing more on the camaraderie and serendipity experienced while exploring with a team of travel writers to #CaptureAnguilla.

Let's meet some new neighbors and let’s keep the magic going! 

• • •

More beautiful than this view at Shoal Bay, was the trail of serendipitous moments that led our paths to each other.

Initially, some of the ladies were drawn to each other through collaborations on each other’s blogs. Other relationships were made through chance encounters during travels. As we continued to support each other digitally, a natural community formed. But I was curious, how would all of these virtual connections relate in person?

Beginning from the first round of hugs, it was like experiencing a photo come to life. I felt our hearts open as we connected to each other's dreams, quickly realizing that we were already bonded by our intent to inspire people to find *magic* in their lives. Needless to say, we were all excited to see where the trip would take us.

Photo Credit: MUHSIEN INC - Shoal Bay, Anguilla 

Travel has this funny way of building confidence. Often when you're prompted with unexpected opportunities... do you say yes?

One of our own, Rachel Rudwall, bravely accepted the challenge to take part in Anguilla’s Carnival Parade. By joining a troupe of locals, she got a chance to show off her moves while the rest of the group cheered her on! It was a great reminder, that intentionally putting yourself in situations where you need to think on your feet or try on new traditions is precisely one of the ways to #livelikeyouretraveling, a mindset that I can bring back home to energize my everyday life.

Photo credit: Ayşegül

I witnessed people shine while in their element, supported in doing what they are compelled to do. It's what happens when you find your tribe.

Kristen and Lacy just the kind of people who understand if you just need that extra second to take that shot... or to just step in as extra hands to help light your food while you share a meal by candle light. And when we weren’t in creative mode, we soaked in what Anguilla has to offer. Sunset sailing on Tradition Sailing's vintage wooden ship. Bursts of bioluminescence from below while low hanging constellations lit up the sky. Images that I hope will be forever embedded in my memory. 

Photo Credit: CreatriceMondial  

While the island is known for its laid back limin' culture, there are opportunities to challenge those looking for a more physical adventure

Anivillas set us on a trail to bike through surprisingly arid landscapes that led us to the limestone shore at Captain Bay. Succesfully navigating through sandy patches and seeing the island from a unique vantage point made our final reward to the hideaway spot that much sweeter.

Ohhhh...if we could just bottle this feeling!

It was through travel that my partner, Alla and I discovered what it's like to feel so open, curious and ALIVE...moments like this one, ending our Anguilla trip with these majestic creatures in the pristine waters of Cove Bay. 

Photo Credit: Dining Traveler

Your Co-chief Adventurer, Mu-Hsien of @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

IDEA174: Be an Agent of Change with Jessica of The Brave Collection

Do you ever get the feeling that you just HAVE to go after something? Even if it might not be a popular route, and despite the challenges...you follow it whole heartedly? This "have-to" feeling is something New York based designer, Jessica Hendricks has embraced in her journey of creating The Brave Collection. Following a trip to Cambodia, she was fascinated by the paradoxical beauty set against the heartbreakingly violent past of this small Buddhist country. Determined to empower a unique community of women survivors, she was inspired to create Brave and to connect courageous women across the globe. 

So often when we travel, we see new perspectives of life and it stirs our inner fire. We are inspired to answer life's biggies like "why are we here?...how will I leave my imprint in this world?" Join us today as our global neighbor shares with us what it took for her to have the tenacity to forge her own path...

• • •

Mu-Hsien: Tell us about your trip to cambodia. What drew you to the country?

Jessica: I was in school at NYC at Tisch School of the Arts. In these sacred four years of study and contemplation that were supposed to be widening my eyes and preparing me for the rest of my life, was I truly seeing all there was to see? I decided to travel east. I’d base myself in Thailand as an English teacher and travel until I found whatever it was I was searching for. I ended up in Cambodia.

Mu-Hsien: Cambodia proved to be a pivotal moment for you. Shocked to learn that Cambodian women today lack dignified job opportunities, or worse are falling victim to human trafficking...what gave you the courage to pursue change and awareness?  

Jessica: The visceral reaction that I felt at the sight of people dressed up as items for sale marked my first glimpse into the world of human trafficking. I was so deeply passionate about celebrating and supporting this very special community that I couldn’t focus on anything else until I really pursued this idea. I returned home to New York, I bought two books that would forever change the course of my life: The Road of Lost Innocence by Somaly Mam, a Cambodian survivor of slavery, and Half the Sky. More than four years of exceptional university level study, more than actually breathing the Cambodian air, reading about the journeys of survivors of sexual trafficking as told by Mam, Kristof and WuDunn sparked an unstoppable passion somewhere beneath my rib cage that has yet to wane.

I grew up in a very entrepreneurial family, so paving my own path was something I learned by example. 

Mu-Hsien: After returning home, what were the first 3 crutial steps you took to go from “passionate idea” towards Brave becoming reality?  

Jessica: Purchase a URL. Create a first bracelet prototype. Tell friends and family I respect that I am creating something new to hold myself accountable! ~ Three years after my trip to Cambodia, I returned to Southeast Asia on a solo journey, working with a team of talented, underprivileged Cambodian artisans to create The Brave Collection, a jewelry line to raise funds and awareness to fight the sexual trafficking of women in Cambodia and back home in New York (where I later learned that trafficking also exists).

{ Her jewelry line is handmade by Cambodian artisans who come from underprivileged backgrounds or suffer from disabilities. Many of the artists are mothers, who are provided a fair and safe work environment where they earn above average wages and receive benefits like health insurance and stipends for their children's education. }

Mu-Hsien: How are the connections you’re making with the artists in cambodia affecting you and how does it impact them? 

Designer Jessica Hendricks with Nimul, a Cambodian Artisan

Jessica: I have learned so much from these amazing women. They celebrate each day with gratitude and they are endlessly creative. For them, our priority is to provide them with dignified, sustainable work in the arts. More than that though, we are working to provide an opportunity for these women to re-connect with their own heritage, and to take pride in the beauty of their culture by celebrating it with our global community. (Below, an artist works on the metal detailing that says, “Brave” (Klaa-han) in Khmer.)

{ This sterling silver with gold vermeil necklace depicts the Buddhist Flag, representing Wisdom and Compassion} 

• • •

Mu-Hsien: In moments of doubt, uncertainty or challenges...what keeps you on your path? 

Jessica: I have so many ideas, whims, doubts and inspirations all the time! Yet I have learned the value of deeply committing to one thing that truly matters. It takes time, patience and a whole lot of Bravery to stay strong through the ups and downs that come with building something from scratch. 

Mu-Hsien: How do you live like you’re traveling? 

Jessica: I bring elements of my travels into my life in Brooklyn. I have dream catchers from Tulum hanging on my walls, and tiny wooden elephants from Laos. In moments of anxiety I remember how incredibly vast this planet is and it helps me channel a bit of the groundedness and deep peace I feel while I am out in the world exploring.

 

In honor of mothers and the ever-courageous females in your life, use code "LIVELIKEYOURETRAVELING" and Brave Collection will make an additional donation through May 10, to Free To Shine Cambodia, an organization which fights human trafficking. 

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

IDEA165: Create a Coffee Shop Atmosphere by Day and Dining Lounge by Night

Are formal dining spaces really necessary these days? My husband and I didn't think so. We live in a modest 100+ yr old Brick home in Chicago. We remodeled it a few years ago and made sure to maximize every corner of space with functionality and style.  One of our key concepts was in creating a dual purpose (work space + dining room). 

As more families and couples use the dining room in a less formal setting, we maximized our small dining room design, by turning it into a workspace. It's a place where we might sit down to work on the computer or spread out our latest art projects. It is a creative space for daily use and when the tables are put together, it makes for a traditional dining area. It's super cozy corner channeling a morroccan lounge, teasing you with throw pillows to come in, relax and stay for a while. 

Cafe Workspace : BY DAY
 

On most days, this room acts as a workspace for us. We had custom tables built to act as "cafe tables" by a designer in Chicago who re-purposes the bases of Charles and Ray Eames' pieces. When separated, they become a his and hers workspace. We find this to be most convenient and functional for our everyday lifestyle.

To give it that inviting and cozy space you might never leave... add small touches of vibrant bud vases with fresh flowers, favorite mugs, and soft neutral pillows with accents of color bring out the cheer. Wood tables made by hand evoke a sense of warmth, counter balanced by clear barely-there chairs.

Building in a few secret compartments in our bench seating, and it becomes a fully functional office space as well.  In the drawers, we have hidden and housed our office supplies, file cabinets, and even our printer!

Lounge Dining : BY NIGHT
 

Push the tables together, add an additional chair at the end, a center piece and other ambience making details...and voila! We are ready for entertaining! 

For more background on our design, head over to our feature for -->  About.com : Home

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Design Details:
Light fixture & pillows: West Elm, Pottery Barn 
Mid-century mirror: An Orange Moon
Tobias clear chairs: Ikea 
Mid-century Teak Shelf :  Broadway Antique Market Chicago
Built-in Cabinetry : TriStar Custom Cabinetry

Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup - Share a Taste of Home with Friends

When traveling, few things unite people like a great meal prepared and shared together. Food is such a natural and direct way to learn about a culture, which is why I love to cook with friends, a tradition that started many years ago abroad. To me, the kitchen is a creative space. A place full of experimentation, chaos and laughter and our friend's kitchen over at Wilson Creek Pottery is no exception. Recently, we traded in the hustle of the city for a scenic weekend visiting them in Spring Green, Wisconsin.

• • •

In their lovely kitchen, we were surrounded by the warmth of their hospitality and their pottery.
It was the perfect spot for trading secret ingredients and resources. 

Our friends love to travel out in the world and from their own kitchen. They can't help but bring back inspiration from their travel. Their last big trip in India, solidified their love for Indian cooking and Ayurveda. When we last visited, they treated us to Indian fare. From handmade chapatis to showing us how to make our own ghee! 

• • •

This time their adventurous mood was set on asian noodles and a perfect chance for me to return the generosity. They knew of my love for noodles and asked if I could show them how to prepare a dish. There was no question. I had to share with them one of my favorite noodle dishes: Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup. (Pictured above) What is delightful about this dish is the complexity of the broth. It's an iconic staple and something I grew up on. To understand my love for noodles is to know me and I was more than happy to share a piece of my home with them. I can have it morning, day or night and my husband couldn't really comprehend this until he saw for himself...the land, people and food of my first home. After a few days into our trip to Taiwan, my husband looked at me knowingly and said, "I get it now."  

• • •

And so today we would all join in culinary adventure to experience the flavors of Taiwan from a cozy house in farm country, Wisconsin. Our plan was ambitious but we made sure to give ourselves ample time. The plan was to prep the broth, the most effort and time intensive part of the dish and we'd prepare it to a point, so that the flavors could be melding while we took a hike nearby.   

And when we tired ourselves of the snowy hills and neighboring animal friends...we would come back home to a simmering broth that would be ready for us. 

• • •
I'm happy to report that our bellies and hearts were full...Now it's your turn! Try it in your own global kitchen!
--> Head over to The Dining Traveler where I shared with her the recipe.

What taste of home would you share? 
• • •
Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling  

IDEA176: Get Lunchbox App and Connect with Lunchtime Travelers!

Here at LLYT Headquarters, we go on and on about being a "Lunchtime Traveler." It's about using your lunch hour whether it's in the middle of your work or school day as an opportunity to have an adventure.

Why not? When we travel, lunch is a chance to explore a new culture, see something new, taste something new or meet someone new. When we're home we tend to just fall into a routine of doing the same exact thing during lunch, eating the same thing, or... gasp... eating at our desk. Oh dear, call the intervention squad! Now, the Human Performance Institute has long ago established that we are more productive and perform better if we take breaks so there is no need to expound on that.

The bottom line is, how do we do something new during our one-hour lunch window?

To answer this question, Artyom Avanesov created the Lunchbox so we decided to meet for lunch, of course! and get all the details.

First of all, what is Lunchbox App and who is it for? 

Download the app and you can post a lunch status letting everyone (using the app) know where you're going for lunch, others can click to join you and meet up at the stated lunch place. Is it just for the office workers looking to break the routine? Travelers wanting to meet up with locals or other travelers? Mommies with babies getting together for a lunch date? For art aficionados looking for a partner in crime to check out a new gallery during lunch hour? Umm... I think it's pretty clear that Lunchbox App is for everyone! Hey, we all have to eat right? 

We headed to a great lunch place right in the center of Amsterdam, Cafe de Jaren. It's always full and hopping for lunch with a nice mix of students, entrepreneurs, bloggers and suit types. Despite it's central location, this place remains undiscovered by tourists. In the summer by the way it's nice to arrive by boat via the canal. Just saying. 

{ Pictured: serious discussion about entrepreneurship, the future of travel and social networking in progress... Artyom on the right } A little bit about Artyom. He speaks Russian, once lived in a favela in Rio, is no stranger to China and pretty much feels at home in the world. He got the idea for the Lunchbox one fine day when his co-workers seemed to be either skipping lunch or eating at their desks.

During my internship my colleagues would often be busy during lunchtime and I would go out for lunch on my own. Walking around the financial district I would see other people eating their sandwich by themselves. So I thought; wouldn't it be great if there were an easy way for all of us to get together and enjoy lunch in good company?

Artyom thought of the lunches he had during his travels, when it was an opportunity to discover the culture, taste new delicacies and connect with people. And so...Lunchbox was born! Now, we always have new friends to meet at lunch.  

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{ Exotic fruits on the beach in Paraty, Brazil  ~ Chinese fish market ~ Family style lunch in China } 

{ Sangria, paella and friends! Perfect lunch Barcelona style. }

Speaking of lunches in exotic locales with exotic friends...why can't we continue lunching like we do when we are traveling?

Why can't it be a discovery for our taste buds when our cities are brimming with ethnic cuisine and lovely lunch spots to discover covering just about any culture! A chance to meet someone perhaps completely different and discover things you actually have in common. This happens all the time when we travel and does not need to stop.

--> Download the Lunchbox, and seek out an opportunity to be a #lunchtimetraveler. 

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{ Artyom practicing calligraphy in China ~  View from Artyom's pad in Rio's favela }

For me personally it was absolutely incredible to meet Artyom.

A fellow travel lover, promoter of living an inspired life and always discovering. Not to mention a fellow lunch enthusiast, who is not afraid of snapping a photo of the said delicious lunch. Currently the Lunchbox is very active in Utrecht and Amsterdam but wherever you are in the world do not be afraid to be the first one who posts a Lunch Box. Invite friends and ask them to invite their friends and soon we'll all be lunching all together! Thanks Artyom for helping us Live Like We're Traveling!

Artyom's Lunch Spot Recommendation:

The location of the world's first stock exchange! The remodeled building now houses space for events, work sharing space for entrepreneurs and a couple of cozy cafes. 

• • •

Join us @livelikeyouretraveling for more #LunchtimeTraveler ideas! 

IDEA161: Try the Powerful Practice of Eyegazing

These days, especially in the city... most people don't look at each other. In it's own quiet way, it can be one of the most aggressive ways to dismiss another person. Choosing not to see someone. If you have noticed a bit of a disconnect and or life moving at a pace where direct eye-contact seems to be non-existent, you may want to explore a practice called eye gazing, often referenced by the Sufi Poet, Rumi. 

According to Will Johnson, author of Spiritual Practices of Rumi, it's "like iron filings being drawn to a powerful magnetic source, we experience ourselves as being ineluctably drawn closer to a shared feeling of union, relatedness, and love. Where formerly we were two separate beings, we join together through the practice and become something that neither of us could quite be on our own. When hydrogen comes into the presence of oxygen, suddenly there's water..."

Likewise, through such a meeting, two people lose their sense of separateness and drown together in the waters of love and union.

I first tried eye gazing at the Sukhava Bodhe Yoga & Music Festival at the Stonehouse Farm Retreat over the summer. It was the near the end of one of the workshops and I was paired with a man next to me. Unsure about what to expect, we sat across from each other in crossed-leg, easy pose and gently began to gaze in each other's eyes for the next 5 min or so. I settled into my gaze, and as I began to focus less and less on any one particular aspect of his face or eyes, it's as though I began to melt into a space within his eyes.

Towards the end of the practice, I felt a letting go, and it was at this moment that I began to tear up.

I tried to hold it in. I mean this was a stranger, so why would I be crying? I was overcome by a feeling of connected-ness and a sense of compassion, knowing nothing about this person other than the experience of two human souls acknowledging each other. Initially I thought that trying this with a stranger would create a more closed experience, however the exact opposite was true. Because I had no preconcieved notions or back story with this man, I was able to maintain a neutral space of openess and curiosity.

It is said, that when eye gazing with someone that you have a past with, that many types of emotions can emerge. One can feel uncomfort or raw emotions, but the act of sitting with it and allowing it to pass is healing, so for some it can be an interesting check for a relationship to see if anything comes up. Naturally, I wanted to try this at home with my husband. We decided to try it once or twice a week for several weeks to see what would happen.

Now that it was going to be with someone that I knew deeply... what would I feel or experience? 

Our first time, we locked eyes and I felt a vulnerability from being so fully seen and acknowledged. I was giggly and remember the time going by so fast that we had to keep turning the timer back on. We held hands as we gazed and it just felt really nice, it was almost as if our eyes were smiling even though our faces were still. Trying it again, a second time...we couldn't stop laughing! I would see just a slight twitch in the corner of his mouth and we both would end up belly laughing. We've practiced it several times and each time seems to bring a new experience. The last time we gazed, I remember thinking my husband's face had such an innocence and sweetness as he looked at me. For us, it is a fun activity that connects us in a way that normal day-to-day life doesn't typically offer and we definitely plan to continue exploring it. 

{ Fun Fact: There are actually speed dating events that start off with a few minutes of eye gazing }  

So are you curious about trying it? Below are a few tips to help if it's your first time. 

Eye Gazing Exercise 

• Set a timer for 5-10 min. 
• Take a few deep breaths to center. 
• Begin by gently looking at your friend’s left eye only.
• Then move your gaze to the other eye.
• When that feels comfortable, gaze into both eyes.
• Breathe naturally and relax your gaze gently on your partner. No staring :) 
• Share your thoughts and reflect on the experience afterwards.
   

Get more ideas to feel more connected everyday...follow us @livelikeyouretraveling 

IDEA160: Go on a Solo Adventure to Connect and Reset

Everyday, we cheer folks on to squash the mundane and seek out everyday adventures... to satiate your wanderlust in-between those big trips afar. The best way for us to follow along and for you to be inspired by other global neighbors, is through our #LiveLikeYoureTraveling tag via Instagram. We couldn't help but notice Amy, full of curiosity, taking us through the colorful details of her surroundings in New Jersey and New York and a willingness to step out of her comfort zone. So we asked her to stop by to share her discoveries from these recent solo adventures, where she embraces two of our challenges: (1) Go Waterfall Hunting and (2) Shop Like You're Traveling, plus tips on how to have one ourselves...

• • •

Some of my most successful adventures in which I really felt like I was able to live like I’m traveling have been where I was by myself. I am actually a big fan of going out and exploring the world alone - whether it’s a big trip to another country or just a local walk in your own town. Traveling with a companion / friends / family can also be extremely rewarding, but there is something so gratifying about being able to experience something for yourself and only for yourself without the presence or opinions of others potentially influencing your decisions. I’m here to share with you some of my experiences and tips for adventuring alone, and by the end - maybe you will feel inspired to go out on a solo adventure of your own!

One of the biggest benefits of solo adventuring is that you are able to connect on a completely different and elevated level - which applies to more things than one. In early September, I ventured by myself to a local park (approximately 30 minutes from home). Despite living in New Jersey for my entire life, I had never been to Schooley’s Mountain Park before. Of everyone in my family, I am probably the most adventurous one - always lusting for new people / places / things. I was determined to experience Schooley’s by myself - as I heard that there were two waterfalls and an overlook to be found.

I woke up early and packed a lunch (as I didn’t want to have to go back home just for food) and drove to the park. On the drive there, I rolled down my windows, turned up the radio, and sang loudly (something I don’t enjoy as much when other people are in the car… mostly because I’m 1000% tone deaf and fear for their ear drums). I also passed a lot of scenic farmland on the way there, which was really nice. I found the waterfalls myself - where I ate my lunch and dipped my feet in the water. I also made my way to the overlook, where I saw a family of hawks. I had never been that close to a hawk in the wild before. I ended up spending the whole day there, and to this day it was one of the best days of my life...

By myself, I was able to wholly connect with my surroundings.

• • •

Another time where I was able to connect more with my surroundings while traveling on my own - was when I went to the historic town of Chester (NJ) by myself for the first time. I went the week before Christmas, and it was such a fun small-scale adventure around the holidays. I took my time in every shop that I entered looking at all the trinkets and objects. One of my favorite parts was that I had conversations with many of the shop owners. It was really fascinating to learn about the products they sold and the stories behind their businesses. It’s not one of the easier things to do - as our society has become one ridden by social anxiety. Trust me, some encounters were slightly awkward too. For the most part though, it was an extremely rewarding experience. I don’t know if I would have taken the time to talk to as many people as I did had I not been alone - nor would I have probably spent an hour at the large antiques shop there.

PLANNING TIPS FOR GOING SOLO 

• Get ideas where to go via Instagram. It's actually one of my main sources for travel ideas. To some people it’s just a silly little app, but to me it is a wealth of inspiration. I follow many locals in my area - who often share places that they go. One of my favorite accounts for NY escapades is @hiddengemofnyc because they tend to post ideas that aren’t your typical NY tourist ideas. Sometimes I find out about events / exhibitions / places via Instagram and then go to Google afterwards to find out more details.

• Keep a local bucketlist. I keep a list of local places that I want to go / things I want to see on my phone in my notes app. It’s like a short-term bucket list ;). I try to prioritize the items on the list by things I want to see from most to least, and then try to plan a day based on that. Some places require their own full day, while others can sometimes be combined into the same day. I always try to have some sort of “loose” plan - but am always open to straying from the plan too.

• Go without a plan. Planning is great and all, but sometimes the most amazing adventures happen when you stumble upon the unexpected. When I'm in New York, I often like to explore by foot, instead of taking the subway (destination & weather permitting). I've discovered a lot of awesome things that can't be found on a map this way. (ex. street art, cool doors, sidewalk shops, food trucks, etc). If you’re really feeling adventurous: just get in your car and drive (with no particular place in mind)...the ultimate road trip!

Many people have told me that I am crazy to go out wandering by myself - mostly for “safety” reasons. To some extent, this is probably true. I have been “cat-called” one too many times while walking the streets of New York (which is ten times more awkward / uncomfortable when you’re alone). I’ve come across multiple snakes on a path while hiking alone. I’ve gotten lost while driving alone, but would find my way back eventually. Life isn't meant to be lived on the terms of “what ifs” and the rewards of adventuring solo outweigh those potential negative what ifs. I know that I for one always feel refreshed and revived after having a good adventure by myself.

A good solo adventure to me is like pushing a reset button.

When I return to my home / my workspace - I come back more motivated than ever with a passion to be productive. While it may seem that initially I went out to procrastinate from getting things done, I find that getting away and experiencing new things often helps me get more done in the end.   

I hope that this has maybe inspired you to go out on some solo adventures yourself! Where are you headed next? Let us know in the comments below!

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Follow Amy for design, wanderlust and noms on amychendesign.com & @amyventures

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LLYT Challenge: Shop Like You're Traveling

When you hear the words "live like you're traveling", what do they make you think? Being just as happy as when we're on a trip? People always ask us, well I'd like to live like I'm traveling, but what should I actually do? The trick is to bring elements of travel that make us happy, excited, engaged right into our everyday life. This does not require big changes like moving to another continent but simply introducing little tweaks into how we go about our day. Currently, as the holiday season is upon us, something we'll be spending time on is shopping for presents! Chore or adventure? Regardless of how you feel about it, we're here to challenge you to make this gift giving season one of adventure not only for yourself but for those who will receive your amazing gifts!  

To help you stay on the 'adventure track' when you're gift shopping this season, we've put together a couple of rules. Should you dare to follow them, a whole new world will be revealed...

Rule #1: No internet!

The internet really does give us a false feeling of knowing "everything". It's easy, it's right at our fingertips, we can shop for shoes right from from our phones sitting on the couch watching an actress on TV run to catch a cab in a fabulous pair of heels. That's the ultimate convenience right? But is it the ultimate luxury? Somewhere on this road to instant gratification, quick, easy and comfortable became mighty guards at the doors of our self imposed house arrest. Where is the adventure... the thrill of a treasure hunt? The sense of accomplishment and excitement that comes from discovering something new? 

Part of the allure and strong pull of travel is that when we travel we are 'captive audience' to the movie that is our own life. We are in a place, for a certain amount of time, with the sole purpose of discovering it. Is it not also the description of 'life'? And the funny thing happens the moment we get home from travels and unpack our suitcases, we get back on the couch and become spectators again, in the words of my three year old son: "Why?". This is probably where technology fails us. By giving us the false feeling that everything we need to know is located in the little shiny square in the palm of our hand. If we don't see something that amazes us in the first 30 seconds of browsing we feel that there is NOTHING left out there for us to discover, explore, or understand. Our adventure muscles became atrophied and we need to rehabilitate them! (And you thought there was nothing deep and cathartic about shopping...) 

Rule #2: Venture OUT there into the big wide "offline" world! 

Now I don't mean running around the overcrowded department store. I mean looking up (if you don't already know) where is a neighborhood with small boutiques. Stroll the streets there. The key is to stay away from the main street and go to an area where artisans and designers have set up shops. During the holidays there are also many opportunities in the form of Artisan Markets and Christmas Markets. (You may use the internet to look up this info, but that's all!) 

Rule #3: Talk to the shopkeepers!

I know this is a really difficult one. With all this social media overload somehow we've developed social anxiety and forgot how to coordinate uttering words and looking at someone in the eyes. And then there is this whole thing of having to be witty and charming in real time... Oy... Again, there is hope, we just have to practice. The reason we are sending you to talk to shopkeepers is because in small boutiques they are a lot of times the designer or artisan themselves! It's a chance to get to know them and let them share a bit of the process with you. They are probably using local ingredients, or perhaps have brought treasures with them from their travels. They have stories. You might even become friends "in real life". 

Rule #4: Find the time by reassigning and combining your daily activities.  

Somehow, someway we started thinking that walking around and browsing shops leisurely stopping at a cafe for a drink is luxury we can afford time to only on vacation. Au contraire! There is time! Here is how you find it. Obviously you can dedicate time during the weekend, but you can even fit it into your workweek. If you work in a city, use your lunch hour. You can also make a weeknight date out of it with the whole family. Have a quick bite out, kids and all, and then go for a stroll all together! Kids love adventures as much as we, big kids, do. 

Rule #5: Go for gifts that someone "would not get for themselves". 

The best gifts are those that help us get "out of the box". Something that let's us try on a different life, look, way of being. Yes, kind of like what travel does for us! The trick to really inspiring someone with a gift is to give them something they would not normally get for themselves because they may think it's a bit extravagant, a bit envelope pushing, or simply something they would not find on the shelves of a department store. In my family there is a certain aunt who is famous for giving the best gifts. I remember receiving a gift from her when I was thirteen of 6 clothes hangers. Practical? Yes, but these were not regular clothes hangers, they were scented, padded ones with beautiful lace detailing and delicate pink bud roses. They came in a box wrapped in scented pink tissue paper. Perfect gift for a thirteen year old girl who is thinking about what her style as a woman is going to be, and what kinds of dresses will need to hang on these hangers in her future glamorous life... (I still have these hangers by the way.)

Now, get out there and SHOP like you're traveling! 
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Photo Credits: via Instagram
@muhsien.lee discovers a shop with dresses made of candy wrappers in Chicago
@erikaholum on her recent trip to Paris comes a boutique with Opera inspired Perfumes
@sofiaprotti finds inspiration for work by shopping at her local market

Share your finds, use #LiveLikeYoureTraveling!

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Get everyday adventure ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

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IDEA157: Hang Out Where the Locals Do...and Party With A Local!

I had a chance to catch up with Dan Fennessy, Co-Founder of Party With A Local, an app that connects locals and travelers for a night no one is likely to forget. We here at "Live Like You're Traveling" are absolutely obsessed with tools that help us be in the know when we travel and when we're back in own cities, to continue discovering with fresh eyes; and Dan's app let's us do BOTH!

To get all the info I met with THE Amsterdam "local", Dan himself. Actually Dan is not Dutch at all, he is from Australia and has been living in Amsterdam for over 7 years. Having experienced this city as a newbie and then staying long enough to become a local, Dan knows first hand what it takes to acquire the invisible keys to a city... and he has decided to reveal that secret to the world. 

We met at Cafe' Cook, a gem of a place hidden from sight just behind a bustling, colorful Jan Evertsenstraat, and a 2 minute walk from Mercatorplein. This place is a tram ride from the center and to be honest I myself did not know about it. It's a true neighborhood joint where you won't only find any tourists but you are probably not going to find too many people from outside of the neighborhood. ALERT!!! This is the holy grail of an eatery for any traveler who wants to feel like a local. It's a really cozy place serving breakfast, lunch and dinner and Dan vouches for the food. Cafe Cook uses local produce serving a variety of updated Dutch dishes, and the prices are sharp. They have a pretty nicely stocked bar and a number of Belgian and Amsterdam local beers.  

So back to the business at hand, Party With A Local App lets travelers join locals for an evening of fun, hanging out at a local pub, clubbing, having a drink at the little known lounge and perhaps finishing of a wild night at a super secret street food joint. Of course the benefit is very clear for the traveler, but what's in it for the local?

As travelers we know that our best travel experiences were definitely those that involved meeting locals because that is the only way to really get a feel for the culture and the vibe of a place.

After having one of those great experience as travelers, in a way we are compelled to pay it forward and show another traveler a great time. There are "selfish" reasons too, and that is to make friends all over the world, getting to enjoy your own city with a renewed energy and inspiration, and of course learning about a different culture without leaving your hometown. Think about the best times you've had while traveling? How many times have you recounted stories to anyone who would listen? Well now you will be in the story that your new friends will be telling everyone back home.  

How does it work? Very simple. You sign in with your Facebook account, and to protect everyone's privacy, the app only shows your first name. Set your status to what kind of partying you're in the mood for. You can first exchange chats to organize what you'll do, or simply suggest a public meeting place and let the good times roll!

What kind of "partying" you may be thinking? It could be as innocent as coffee, or the kind of night that ends in wolfing down a burger at a secret all night spot eatery as the dawn breaks, it depends on you (and your stamina). Actually, it doesn't even have to be a party, you can get a bite to eat, do a cultural activity, anything really. Dan tells us a story one of the users shared about traveling to Singapore and getting invited to an afternoon volleyball game and a neighborhood barbecue. Fun! (And we have photographic evidence via Instagram.)

There are many stories like this of the perfect travel experiences, but what this app really does is deeper then just "partying." There are tons of examples of true friendships forming and new friends visiting each other or even planning new travels together! It's really about connecting like minded people all over the globe who are curious about the world and passionate about discovering new cultures. 

I asked Dan if he had any crazy stories to tell, because he himself is a regular 'local' hosting travelers right here in Amsterdam. He thought about it for a moment then laughed, then shook his head, then laughed again... and then told me a story... BUT! Unfortunately I am not at liberty to disclose it. Though it was fun to see Dan say: "oh... wait DON'T put that on the blog!" Actually I think they made a movie about it... I think it's called "The Hangover?" Hey, you're just going to have to sign up and make your very own Party With A Local experiences! 

So who holds the 'invisible key' to unlocking the secrets of a city? The people that live there. Talk to them, meet them, make friends and don't forget to invite them to come visit you. 

- Thanks Dan for being a super local and helping us live like we're traveling!

DAN RECOMMENDS IN AMSTERDAM:
Neighborhood eats:  Cafe' Cook - James Cookstraat 2, 1056 RZ Amsterdam 
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