U.S. Natural Wonders That Will Transport You to Another Planet

March 28, 2017 by Ivana De Domenico

I have been fortunate enough to visit many gorgeous and fascinating places around the world. I was raised in Italy, now live in the United States in Utah, and have had the opportunity to visit destinations such as England, Russia, Spain, and Kenya. I’ve climbed mountains, swam in various lakes and seas, and trekked through ancient cobblestone streets. I’ve tried a variety of different cuisines and conversed with people of other nationalities in their native tongues. I hope I have the opportunity to keep on traveling for as long as I can, but I’ve probably already seen more parts of the world than most people do in a lifetime.

Anyway, I’m getting a little carried away. The point of this post is not to brag about my extensive travel experience, but rather to highlight some natural wonders in the United States that will make you feel as though you’ve not just left the country, but set foot on another planet. I hope that everyone gets the chance to travel internationally and experience new cultures, but experiencing someplace truly spectacular may be simpler than you think. Don’t lose sight of the beauty of America in your thirst to explore new places- if you’ve got a car and some time on your hands, get out there and experience these natural wonders for yourself.

Bryce Canyon, Utah

Lucky for me, this beautiful national park is practically in my backyard! Well okay, not really- it’s about a four hour drive, but in the grand scheme of things that’s not so bad. It’s an easy day trip. If you want to feel small and awestruck, all you need do is take a walk through what blogger Hal Amen describes as “a vast eroded amphitheater, populated with hoodoos. The hoodoos, crimson-colored outcroppings of rock, really need to be seen in person. Words just don’t do them justice!

Bryce Canyon

The Wave, Arizona

Take one step into the aptly-named “Wave” located in Paria Canyon-Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness near the Utah-Arizona border, and you’ll feel as though you’ve been sucked into a surrealist painting or landed on the surface of Mars. You’ll want to make sure you have steady feet and are not easily nauseous, because this rippling red sandstone formation is enough to send anyone for a spin! Trust me though, any disorientation you may feel is totally worth it for the amazing views you’ll be rewarded with- the contrast of clear blue sky against fiery red rock is beyond compare.

The Wave

Northern Lights, Alaska

The Northern lights look like something out of a fantasy world, and you don’t even have to leave the country to see them! Sure, Alaska is a bit of a hike by car, but it’s worth the miles to see this otherworldly site at least once in your lifetime. This rippling explosion of color across the sky should be on everyone’s bucket list. For optimal light-viewing conditions, travel to Fairbanks or Anchorage between September and April- wouldn’t want your trip to be a waste!

The Northern Lights

Niagara Falls, New York

Okay, so technically Niagara falls is in the United States and Canada, and if you take a trip up to Buffalo to see them, there’s no reason you shouldn’t cross the border to take them in from the Canadian side as well as long as you have a passport. These majestic falls deserve to be viewed from every angle.

Niagara Falls

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

A lot of people probably have a picture in their head of what a cave is, from film and television, without ever having been in one. Physically entering a cave, walking through its damp, cavernous spaces is quite a different experience than merely viewing one from afar. With its stalagmites and stalactites jutting up from the ground and ceiling, you’ll definitely feel as if you’ve entered another world entirely.

Mammoth Cave

I’m just skimming the surface here as far as beautiful natural wonders in the United States go. There are so many others (the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, the Rocky Mountains, etc.) that I left off the list, but I guarantee that if you just get out there and explore, you’ll find that you don’t have to travel very far to witness the beauty of America.

Tips to Avoid Overpacking

February 21, 2017 by Ivana De Domenico

As a woman who travels a lot, I’ve had to learn how to cut back on what I bring. With airlines such as United Airlines getting stricter about their carry-on regulations and airports in general enforcing tighter security, it is especially important that you know how to avoid overpacking. There are certain essentials for any trip that you’ll want to make sure you include, but if you follow these tips, I think you’ll find that there are many items you can afford to leave behind.

If you’re traveling on a plane you should, of course, be aware of the carry-on limitations, such as the maximum dimensions for carry-on bags (9”x 14”x 22”), prohibited items, and the liquids rule established by the TSA. Nevertheless, whether you’re escaping for a week-long getaway to an exotic destination or just an overnight trip, there are some general guidelines you can follow for a smarter, less-stress packing experience. Why lug a giant suitcase around and practically throw your back out hoisting it into your trunk or onto the baggage check conveyor belt when you end up using only half of what you brought? Follow these simple tips and you’ll be an expert packer in no time!

Tip 1: Plan your outfits ahead of time for every day of your vacation and pack one extra. Instead of aimlessly throwing shirts and pants into your suitcase, actually put pieces together and pack one extra outfit just in case of an emergency (spills, rips, etc.). Certain pieces of clothing, such as jeans, can be worn more than once. You will save yourself a lot of space and also a lot of anxiety over whether or not you’ve remembered everything if you plan ahead.

Tip 2: Make a list. Again, to save yourself from unnecessary stress, make a checklist of everything you absolutely need for your trip. If you’re unsure about something, then you probably don’t need it, but if it helps, you can divide your list into sections- definitely and maybe, for instance- and cross off items as you go.

Tip 3: Check the weather before you go. There’s no sense in taking up extra space and weight in your suitcase with heavy, bulky clothing if it’s going to be 80 degrees and sunny wherever you’re going. There’s a glorious invention called the internet that allows you to check the day-to-day weather predictions several months into the future.

Tip 4: Use organizers. Organizers are your travel buddy when it comes to efficient packing- this is what they were made for! Use a separate pouch for your toiletries, makeup, and jewelry to save space and keep your things organized.

Tip 5: Give yourself plenty of time. Trust me, you do NOT want to make the mistake of scrambling to pack your bags an hour before you have to leave to catch your flight. That just creates unnecessary stress! Have your bag completely packed (zipped and ready to go) at least the night before you leave so you won’t impulsively toss in excessive items in your haste to leave on time.

Stress Sells: Travel Companies Tapping Into The Psyche of the Stressed Out Traveler

January 25, 2017 by Ivana De Domenico

Here’s an interesting idea: openly acknowledging, even advertising, the downsides of traveling to sell the experience to Americans eager for an escape. Sounds strange, doesn’t it? According to an article from The New York Times, many traveling companies are embracing the idea of self-mockery as a marketing tactic to get more people to travel. Getting through a stressful journey makes the destination all the more rewarding, or at least that’s what some travel companies are claiming.

In the past, hotel ads have emphasized the luxurious nature of traveling, while glossing over its tendency to be stressful and irritating as well. But some companies are testing out a new approach. A recent ad for Westin Hotels & Resorts reads, “Take back what seat 34E took from you.” Other ads from the hotel chain reference how traveling can disrupt one’s sleep schedule and diet. Westin is going where few travel companies have dared to go before, openly acknowledging what a hassle it can be to get away for some r&r.

Other companies are following suit. For instance, HomeAway reinstated a campaign it began last year featuring travelers experiencing awkward or unpleasant situations while on vacation as a strategy to compete with rival Airbnb. Hilton Hotels & Resorts coined the catchphrase, “Stop clicking around” to showcase the frustrating experience of searching for the best hotel deal online.

Even airlines are picking up on this trend of embracing flaws. There is not a lot these companies can do to make flying seem more glamorous, expect for promoting business/first class, so instead airlines like American Airlines and JetBlue are encouraging passengers to make light of the uncomfortable, often stressful, experience of air travel. American Airlines, for example, is advising travelers how to be the “world’s greatest flyers,” with tips like brining noise-cancelling earphones to drown out the wails of crying babies.

According to The New York Times, “Although it might seem counterintuitive, acknowledging negativity can make a brand seem more credible.”

Top Winter Towns to Visit This Season

December 20, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

As the polar vortex is rapidly approaching, you can bet that snow is coming along the way. Winter time is a beautiful time to take a walk in the crisp, quiet air or even enjoy the views through the window, cozied up by a fireplace. Bundle up your coats, because these are the most beautiful winter towns in the U.S. to add to your winter travel list.

Stowe, Vermont

There’s no better place to relax and play in the frigid dead of winter than in Stowe. Known as one of the top towns in the New England area for winter fun, Stowe offers a variety of options such as multiple ski slopes, dog sledding, ice fishing, and ice skating. If you’re looking to take in the dazzling views of winter through the glass, there are a variety of indoor options available as well, such as resorts & spas, indoor rock climbing, shopping, and cabin rentals. This is your ultimate destination for making the most of your winter.

Stowe, VT

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge offers over 300 inches of snow each year, hence known as the best town for hitting the slopes. However, this town is known as one of the top tourist towns in the state. The town is known for its mining history and artistic winter sculptures. It is also very well loved for its luxury hotels and spas, dining, and outdoor fun. Breckenridge offers the real experience of a winter wonderland.

Breckenridge, CO

Bend, Oregon

There is no better place to get your winter hiking experience in than Bend, OR. The town gets less than 30 inches of snow, but the slopes are made ready for your ultimate ski/snowboarding experience. After hitting the slopes, climb down to mainland to enjoy dry fun of dining, shopping, and relaxation through Oregon’s nature. Don’t forget your snow boots, because you’ll want to experience the fascinating trails that the State has to offer. If you’re a fan of fresh, cool winter air, then this is the place for you.

Bend, OR

Ketchum, Idaho

Ketchum is known for having the world’s largest snow making machine, and olympic ice skating practices. They’re also known for their extravagant holiday season where you’ll want to spend your whole day outside (don’t forget about the amazing Fireworks show). If you’re looking to get your adrenaline rushing, Ketchum offers Heli-skiing and is a must try for those with skiing skills. Don’t forget to check out the town’s most famous, family-owned restaurant, Vintage.

Ketchum, ID

Ogunquit, Maine

For the most significant winter wonderland experience, Ogunquit is a great experience. Known as a tourist town during the summer months, experiencing the ocean in the dead of winter is a beautiful sight. With the lower winter prices, you can support the local arts and unique shopping experiences of the town’s winter season. The local holiday festivities will allow you to relax through the hustle and bustle of the winter season, while experiencing the local holiday cheer.

Marginal Way Beach in Ogunquit, ME

10 Best Dishes From Around the World

November 9, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

Who doesn’t love to travel? I was born in Italy, currently reside in the United States (Utah), and have visited England, China, Spain, Kenya, and Russia in my travels- to name a few. As an avid globetrotter, I aspire to be more than just a tourist. For me, a vacation isn’t complete without fully immersing myself in the culture. This means trying the national food specialities of whatever country I’m visiting, no matter how bizarre they may appear. You never know if you’ll like something unless you actually try it. In fact, some of my favorite foods were discovered through my travels.

If you’re visiting a foreign country for the first time, the food options can be a little overwhelming. The locals will all have their own opinions on their country’s best food, and it would definitely serve you well to ask around and try different things based on their recommendations, but here are my picks of 10 of the best dishes from 10 countries around the world to get you started:

Kenya: ugali Ugali is a type of porridge typically consisting of cornmeal. It’s cooked in boiling water or milk to give it a dough-like consistency. Although it sounds simple, ugali is a very versatile dish and is extremely popular in Southern Africa and the Great Lakes region. It can be rolled into a ball and used as a scoop for meat and vegetable stews.
ugali and cabbage
Russia: borscht Borscht is a type of beet soup, made with some type of meat stock and other vegetables as well such as cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes. If you don’t like beets, then you may want to skip this one, but personally, it’s one of my favorites. The soup has a slightly sour flavor and is usually served cold with a dollop of sour cream on top.
England: yorkshire pudding You may have heard that what Brits call “pudding” is not the same dessert that Americans associate with pudding. In the UK, the word “pudding” typically denotes a dessert course but can be used to describe a sweet or savory dish. Yorkshire pudding is not a pudding at all in the American sense of the word; it’s a staple dish in England (part of the traditional British Sunday roast), made from a batter of eggs, flour, milk or water. It’s usually flavored with meat drippings, herbs, and seasonings, and served with beef and gravy.
Spain: paella Paella, while popularized and available in most places, is a Spanish speciality. It’s a rice dish made with different kinds of meat, usually seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, crab, or lobster) or sausage, and vegetables. It’s typically seasoned with saffron and garlic, and its name comes from the pan it’s traditionally cooked in.
paella
Italy: pizza Okay, okay, pizza may sound like a cop-out when there are so many delectable food options in Italy, but trust me on this: Italian pizza is not the same as other pizza. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and Italian pizza uses only the freshest ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. If you’re feeling more adventurous, though, try tortellini en brodo, the ultimate Northern Italian comfort food. Instead of the traditional cream sauce, the tortellini are served in a homemade chicken broth.
Canada: poutine If you thought french fries couldn’t get any better, think again. In this Canadian take on french fries, the fries are smothered in gravy and topped with cheese curds.
Australia: pie floater What is a pie floater, you ask? It’s not actually a floating pie, but an Australian-style meat pie served in a bowl of pea soup. If you’re not feeling adventurous enough to try kangaroo meat, this savory dish should hit the spot.
pie floater
Scotland: haggis Haggis sounds disgusting but many people find it to be quite delicious. It’s a savory pudding containing sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs minced with onion, oatmeal, spices and salt. If you’re not a very adventurous eater, I could understand wanting to pass on this one, but haggis is the national dish of Scotland, so check it out if you want the true Scottish experience.
China and Hong Kong: dim sum Because Asian food is so readily available in the United States, you may have tried dim sum before. Order it in Hong Kong or China, however, for an authentic experience. Dim sum are small bite-sized portions of food (like dumplings or steamed barbeque pork buns) traditionally served with tea.
Germany: spaetzle Germany is known for its diverse array of food options, so you really can’t go wrong with a nice bratwurst or schnitzel, but If I could only recommend one thing, be sure to try the spaetzle. Spaetzle are traditional German egg noodles typically served as a side dish to a meat course, but they’re good enough to stand alone as well.

Travel Medicine 101

October 25, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

With the holidays fast-approaching, many people will be hitting the road or sky to be with family and friends. While traveling is meant to be a fun adventure (who doesn’t get excited about seeing new places and having some time to kick back?) there are some things you should know before you go in regards to what to bring.

Packing can be stressful enough making sure you’re bringing everything you need for the trip. Toothbrush? Check. Deodorant? Check. Enough outfits and are they weather appropriate? Check. You get the idea. It is especially important to make sure you’re covered with all of the medicines and first aid pieces you’ll need for a safe and enjoyable vacation. Packing these essentials with the whole family in mind takes it to another level.

To simplify the process and make it as painless as possible (after all, you want to have fun!) I’ve compiled a list of dos and don’ts for keeping both yourself and your family safe while on vacation.

Dos:

Do make a list of all the medicines (prescriptions, supplements, vitamins, etc.) everyone in your family will need and check it off as you pack these items. First make a list of the essentials. A basic travel first aid kit should include all of your and your family’s prescription medications, hydrocortisone cream for bug bites and rashes, Tylenol or Advil as a pain and fever reducer, band aids, a copy of a recent EKG if you or anyone in your family has heart problems, antihistamines for allergic reactions, alcohol wipes, small scissors, tweezers, and adhesive tape.

Do consider where you are traveling and who you’re traveling with. There are other things to consider if you are traveling abroad, extreme traveling (camping/hiking), traveling with seniors, and especially if you are traveling with children. For instance, you may want to bring antibiotics for bacterial infections if you’re traveling abroad, as well as emergency contraceptives. Children and seniors often require extra care, so make sure they are equipped with everything they’ll need to stay healthy, such as antibiotic cream for seniors and cold medicine and a digital thermometer for children, in case they run a fever. If you’re going to be out in the wilderness, make sure you have iodine tablets to purify your water in case of an emergency situation and dramamine to keep you from getting sick due to rough terrain or extreme sports like whitewater rafting.

Do check your family’s vaccinations, especially if traveling abroad. In some countries, diseases like Typhoid Fever and Polio are more prevalent.

Do make sure you have travel insurance. Evaluate the best plan for your family at insuremytrip.com. This is especially important if you are traveling to a foreign country and/or traveling with children, as you would not want your children to receive suboptimal healthcare at a hospital overseas.

Do rent from a reputable company if you plan on renting a car. Go with an internationally-known company and bring your own car seats for your children.

Do kid-proof your hotel room for your children. Hotel rooms can have many safety hazards that you have already child-proofed at home, such as looped window cords, choking hazards, electrical outlets and appliances, and heavy furniture that could topple.

Do have an emergency medical plan before you travel anywhere. Make sure you have your doctor’s number back home in case you need to get in touch with them. You should also check out iamat.org, an organization connecting travelers with experienced, English-speaking doctors in over 90 countries.

Don’ts:

Don’t let your kids go shoeless. Wear slippers or socks in hotel rooms and, it may go without saying, but be sure to wear shoes outdoors. Parasitic infections are common in some countries, and in general, kids are more likely to put their hands and feet in their mouths, so bring along some hand sanitizer or hand wipes!

Don’t drink water that is not potable. Use boiled or bottled water for everything if the water is not safe for drinking.

Don’t let your children pet wild animals. They could carry rabies or other infections. Get medical attention right away if anyone is bitten!

…And lastly, don’t worry and don’t forget to have fun! With these simple precautions in mind, you and your family are sure to have an exciting vacation and make some priceless memories!

Conducting Biological Research with New Organisms

August 18, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

There’s a great read by Quantam Magazine about the future of biological research as it pertains to using new model organisms.

Written by Emily Singer, “Biologists Search for New Model Organisms,” walks us through the interesting history of how scientists first began to use certain organisms and how many are improving upon the existing models.

The article begins in the 1900s with Columbia University zoologist Thomas Hunt Morgan who worked in the Marine Biological Laboratory, which offered an abundance of research opportunities. Morgan studied recovery in loner crabs, cell division in ocean urchins, embryonic advancement in frogs, and sex determination in aphids. With each experiment, moving from creature to creature, he introduced a new insight that would become fundamental to biology.

Over the years, Morgan got to be a standout and one of the most adored researchers of the twentieth century. But in the decades since his work, so much has evolved. Yet so much of the research today is still focused on a small gathering of animal varieties — natural product flies, the roundworm C. elegans, zebrafish, mice and a couple others.

Writes Singer, who spoke with numerous leaders in the field:

These animals are easy to grow in the lab, and researchers have developed an arsenal of tools for analyzing and modifying their genomes. The animals have had an enormous impact on our understanding of both basic biology and disease, earning scientists dozens of Nobel Prizes.

But some scientists argue that biology needs a taste of Morgan’s pre-fly days, when scientists studied a panoply of organisms. They argue that by focusing on roughly seven animals out of the estimated 9 million species on Earth, we are missing a huge chunk of interesting biology. “We are due for a renaissance,” said Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, a biologist at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research in Kansas City, Missouri. “We have narrowed our focus to a handful of organisms that statistically are highly unlikely to encompass the gamut of biological activity on the planet.”

From there, Singer goes on to reveal a dazzling assessment of the state of biological research today and the need for forward-thinking approaches. It’s truly a great read. Check it out here.

Trend Destination: Ethiopia

July 29, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

ivana de domenico on the ethiopian travel trend

This week, an article on CNN.com suggests Ethiopia is “the next big thing in Africa travel.” The increased appeal, said CNN, can be attributed to “new infrastructure” and “expanding industry” in this East African nation, which is situated to the north of Kenya (a country who in recent years has suffered a dip in its tourism numbers).

It goes without saying that travel forecasts don’t guarantee an actual trend. Still, Ethiopia–with its vast wilderness, wildlife, and mountain ranges–is ripe for a tourism boom. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital, seems especially ready, CNN reports:

“Addis Ababa is in the midst of a building boom that includes a massive expansion of Bole International Airport and a number of new hotels including glitzy high-rise offerings from Marriott and InterContinental currently under construction.”

However, foreign travel to Ethiopia is not without complications. While the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office have lowered its terrorist threat level in some areas, the official still advise against all travel to “within 10 km of the border with Eritrea,” with the exception of some nearby main roads and tourist sites.

The travel website Lonely Planet agrees that travel to Ethiopia is “tough, both physically and mentally.” But its experts certainly don’t write off the rewards of visiting the country, saying “Testing, awe-inspiring and heartbreaking – a journey you’ll never forget. You don’t explore Ethiopia for a relaxing getaway, you venture here to be moved. And moved you shall be.”

Are You Making Any of These Tech Travel Mistakes?

April 14, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

Traveling can be an adventure and, these days, the adventure is enhanced through technology. Capturing and sharing our memories in real time has become a regular part of any trip, cross-continent or just around the corner. When the time comes to plan your next getaway, make sure that your tech gadgets (tablet, smartphone, laptop) have all the provisions they need to go the distance.

There’s a super-helpful article this week at USA Today that outlines preemptive advice for every possible tech travel mistake you might make. Give it read here, or check out my slideshow below for a snippet.

[embedyt] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37XfSKskAeg[/embedyt]

5 Travel Apps That Will Drastically Improve Your Next Trip

March 10, 2016 by Ivana De Domenico

When traveling to a new city, having the right apps on your phone can drastically improve your experience. These apps can help you find hidden gems or navigate through airports with ease. But with so many apps out there, what apps should you choose? Below you will find 5 apps that I recommend you download before your next trip.

Wiffinity

This app will allow you to find and connect to free WiFi locations while traveling, helping you to avoid those nasty roaming charges. With this app, you will have access to more than 300,000 WiFi hotspots worldwide. You have the ability to search through a GPS feature before it connects you to a free WiFi via encrypted passwords.

Cost: Free | Available on: iOS and Android

Great Little Places

This app will help you find hidden gems in various cities, based on places recommended by frequent visitors. Great Little Places will make sure that you do not miss the unique places that make each city so great. Whether you are in New York, London, Cape Town, San Francisco, Dublin, or Sydney, this app will help you navigate the best restaurants, bars, pubs, and coffee shops that you probably would not have been able to find otherwise.

Cost: Free | Available on: iOS

FLIO

Nobody enjoys airport layovers, but FLIO hopes to make your next layover more enjoyable. The app automatically connects you to free WiFi, keeps you up to date with departure and arrival times, and even offers discounts on food, shopping, and airport lounges. FLIO is designed to work at every major airport and give users access to over 65 global airport lounges with same-day rates.

Cost: Free | Available on: iOS and Android

HERE Maps

When visiting a different country, you likely will not have internet access on your phone, unless you want to pay expensive roaming charges. But without internet access, many of us would struggle to navigate a new city. That is where HERE Maps can help. This app gives you access to offline maps and navigation in over 100 countries. The voice-guided driving and walking navigation takes you straight to your destination. The route planner will give you the best options for driving, public transportation or walking. The app even has real-time information and public transit maps for over 900 cities.

Cost: Free | Available on: iOS and Android

Indie Guides

This app is perfect for anyone who is looking to go beyond the norm wherever they go. Indie Guides provides curated city guides, which are offered in destinations throughout Asia, Europe, and North America. You will discover quirky, alternative, and iconic destinations that locals love.

Cost: Free | Available on: iOS and Android

For more great travel apps, please check out this article.

Wiffinity

Great Little Places

FLIO

HERE Maps

Indie Guides

What to do?