Pura Vida! A Reflection of How Pura Vida Came to Life for Me in 2014

Pura Vida!!!

Directly translated into English, Pura Vida means "Pure Life", but for the people of Costa Rica there is a deeper meaning. The essence of Pura Vida is that no matter how bad your current life situation, someone somewhere has it worse. So maybe, if you really think about it, your situation isn't all that bad after all. And in the end, life is short; life is wonderful. So start living your life! Witnessing and experiencing "Pura Vida" all over Costa Rica made me reflect on my life and how, out of the blue, I decided to visit Costa Rica. So to end the last few hours of 2014, I think that a personal reflection post is quite appropriate.

2014 has been fantastically wonderful. Then again, when is being just plain alive not fantastically wonderful? In particular, the last few months have been a whirlwind of wonderfulness as I planned my around-the-world trip. For those that weren't aware, I had grand plans to quit my job in January and buy a one-way ticket to Tanzania where I would teach 15-22 year olds about business and leadership. Then I would climb Kilimanjaro and travel around the world indefinitely until 1) I got bored or 2) I ran out of money. I'm pretty sure the latter would have happened first though. By an odd twist of fate, the day I was looking for my one-way flight, I was contacted by a recruiter. 16-days later, I landed my dream job that was a blend of all my passions: food, health & nutrition, and a global role. My grand plans for a year of worldly adventures came to a halt, but I still needed to travel somewhere to lightly scratch that travel itch. Fast forward, I landed in Costa Rica where I was immersed into the Pura Vida lifestyle and began reflecting on how Pura Vida came to life for me in 2014. 

• Planning an around-the world trip despite being pretty slightly freaked out about the idea of being incomeless and aimlessly wandering the world with no real plans
• Dropping all those plans when my dream job landed in my lap 
• Losing my Burning Man virginity and being able to share those experiences with friends old and new 
• Doing my first Yoga handstand while my sister stood at my side cheering me on 
• Backpacking the Lost Coast in California for my birthday with close friends
• Camping in Yosemite for the first time... And learning that I can survive the freezing 35 degree nights... :) 
• Witnessing the beauty and power of heavy rainfalls as I hiked through both Zion and Bryce during a torrential rainstorm
• Learning to make bread from scratch and, in the process, realizing that keeping yeast alive is quite a challenge
• Experiencing the worst sea sickness ever while deep sea fishing then being rewarded with fresh salmon
• Creating lasting memories with the amazing people in my life

Looking forward to 2015, I definitely want to continue to keep Pura Vida alive. On my bucket list for 2015:

• Learn Spanish--probably a good idea to learn the language that is spoken at so many countries that I adore
• Learn to be a Barista--Coffee. Yum!
• Experience Tomorrowland in Belgium--supposedly the best music festival EVER so why not right?
• Learn to play the guitar or maybe the sax... or both?
• Work on a farm--milking a cow sounds kind of cool don't you think?
• Kick @$$ at my new job
• Continue to blog about tasty eats and my worldly adventures

How was your 2014? And how will you ensure that Pura Vida is a part of your 2015? 

Pura Vida!!

The Southeast Asia Edition: Vietnam in a Nutshell - Top 5 Things to Do

Vietnam has quickly grown in popularity as a top destination. From the beautiful stretches of beaches to the ancient cities and limestone islands--Vietnam's diversity is astounding. If you are looking for a country with profound history, cuisine, and natural beauty, then look no further. Vietnam is your answer. Here are the top things you should do during your visit to Vietnam.

Take an Overnight 'Junk' Boat Tour of the Ha Long Bay 

Ha Long Bay literally translates as "bay of descending dragons". This UNESCO World Heritage Site located in northern Vietnam is one of the natural wonders of the worlds. With thousands of limestone islands emerging out of the waters, Ha Long Bay makes for a surrealistic seascape that looks like it came straight out of a movie.

Ha Long Bay is best explored via an overnight 'junk' boat tour. While you can easily take a day cruise of the bay, an overnight tour allows you to experience the most wondrous moments of Ha Long Bay: sunrise, sunset, and a clear, moonlit evening. Be sure to pre-book your tour. While it might sound like a good idea to try to bargain for tickets at the pier, it is not set set up for independent travel and hawkers will rip you off with premium-priced tickets. Also be sure to find a good operator who does not oversell you or lie about what the boat looks like or the amenities on the boat. You do not want to be one of the many tourists thinking that you are about to embark on a luxury cruise ship only to find yourself on a dingy boat.

Float Through The Mekong Delta

The swamplands of the Mekong Delta, also known as Vietnam's "rice basket" or a "biological treasure trove", supplies over a third of the country's annual food crop from its abundant fish farms, orchards, rice paddies, and plantations. Life in the Delta revolves around the river and many of the villages are often accessed via rivers and canals versus roads. A visit through the Mekong Delta is awe-inspiring with the bustle of the colorful floating markets, the laughter of children as they ride on the backs of water buffalo, and the peacefulness of boats gliding through the maze of channels. 

If your time is limited, one-day trips of the Mekong Delta can easily be organized from Ho Chi Minh City. If you have more time, partake in a farmstay where you will get the opportunity to learn about life on the Mekong Delta from a local family. The best times to visit are during dry season from December to May.

Get Lost in the Chaotic Hanoi Streets

Hanoi, capital of Vietnam, is a mixture of French colonialism with Eastern influences. A visit to the History Museum and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum are highly encouraged during your stop in Hanoi. A must-do, is exploring the labyrinthine streets of the Old Quarter. Drop in to a Parisian style Vietnamese coffee shop, then join the locals at one of the many restaurants filled with low tables and seats that spill onto the sidewalk--it's the only way to really experience dining in the Old Quarter of Hanoi!  Before arriving, be prepared to handle the hustle and bustle in the streets of Hanoi city's Old Quarter. The traffic made up of hundreds of scooters, cyclo bikes, and pedestrians lasts all day. To safely cross streets, just close your eyes and go! Don't change your speed and trust that the locals will be able to time themselves perfectly to barely whiz by you. It is like nothing you will ever experience anywhere else.   

Explore Vietnam's History and Modernism in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam. With a blend of war-torn history and modern beauty, the city offers a vibrant shopping, dining, and nightlife experience. While in town, be sure to visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum and the War Remnants Museum for a flavor of the country's history. Then wander through Dong Khoi, a colorful stretch of road lined with beautiful colonial architecture and a span of shops and bars. Do not forget to stop through the markets for bargain shopping and food stalls. Then take a break to grab some Vietnamese Coffee from one of the numerous coffee shops that dot the city. 

From Ho Chi Minh city you can take a trip to the Mekong Delta or visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, an immense system of underground tunnels used as a hiding place by Viet Cong guerrillas during the Vietnam War. 

As with any other major city, be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pick-pocketers in Ho Chi Minh. As tourism has grown, so has the number of wallet-swipers.
  
Eat Foods Beyond Banh Mi and Pho
  

There's more to Vietnamese food than Banh Mi's and Pho. Vietnam has a reputation for having some of the yummiest street foods in the world. So skip that pricey restaurant and sample some good eats from local street stalls. Be sure to try:

• Banh Xeo, a crispy crepe filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and other fresh herbs and garnishes
• Ga Nuong, honey marinated and grilled chicken wings that are crispy on the outside while maintaining a tender inside
• Che, Dessert served with layers of beans, jelly, coconut milk, fruit, and ice -- one of my absolute favorites!

And do not forget to find the Lunch Lady AKA Nguyen Thi Thanh--a street vendor in Ho Chi Minh who is well-known from having been featured by Anthony Bourdain. She makes a mean noodle every day of the week and is well worth the hunt. She is so famous, her location can now be found via Google Maps!

The Burning Man Edition: The Truth About Burning Man

I'll admit right off the bat--the title of this post is a bit misleading. There really is no singular "truth" about Burning Man. Burning Man is an experience that is as individualized as the ridges that make up your fingerprints. You get what you want out of it and your experience is ultimately created by your decisions. If you have never attended Burning Man it is almost impossible for you to fathom the experience unless you just go! Even then, each year you return home to the Playa, your experience will be completely different than before (at least that is what I have been told). So while I cannot offer you singular "truths" about Burning Man, what I can offer are my personal "truths" based on my experiences THIS year. Will my experience next year be the same? Probably not. But for now, these are my truths from Burning Man 2014.

What is Burning Man?
"It's A Hippie Fest." 
"It's just like Coachella, Woodstock [insert name of other large festival], but bigger."
"It's a raver event for drugged up 20 year olds."

False. False. And false. This is such a tough question to answer, but I will try anyway. Burning Man is a temporary city of almost 70,000 people from all walks of life who come together and dedicate themselves to the spirit of the community to express radical self-reliance and radical self-expression. A week later, all 70,000 attendees depart from the Nevada desert, leaving no trace of the city's existence. Yes there is music--lots of it. Yes there are 20-year olds. But there are also 2-year olds and 70-year olds. The city is truly an all-encompassing community of free-spirited, open-minded individuals who come together from all parts of the world to create the Burning Man community.

Burning Man is a place for self-introspection, transformation, and expansion of horizons, whether aided by substances or not. It is a place to explore the freedom from societal economies, break free of social boundaries, and push your personal limits. 

Photo Credit: Dara Dowlatshahi

Burning Man taught me to be comfortable in my own skin and love every part of me for who I am. I was able to dig deep to discover my true values, hopes, and dreams. It allowed my inner child to break free and be mesmerized by the creativity and ingenuity of fellow burners as I explored the massive art installations, hopped on fire-shooting art cars, and danced to the lucid beats pumping from sound camps while watching the sun rise over the Playa. 

I learned to appreciate the grandeur of dust storms as it enveloped the city. I experienced admiration for the natural beauty and elegance of every facial feature, body shape, and bone structure of each individual on the Playa. Most importantly, I embraced a new found sense of hope for human kind--that people are inherently genuine and good at heart. I grew significantly closer to friends that I had started this adventure with. And along the way, I met some of the most amazing souls at Burning Man. Words cannot begin to describe the emotions that emerged as these complete strangers welcomed me home with a big bear hug and, without hesitation, offered me a tremendous amount of open honesty, generosity, and love. Cuddle puddle anyone? 

Given the emotional, chaotic sense of bliss and wonder at Burning Man, the question always arises: "Everyone must be drugged up the entire time right?" I would be lying if I said that Burning Man is a drug-free event, but I think most people already know that. However, not everyone is always drugged up. In fact, many attendees stay drug-free. There are actually plenty of things to do without partaking in the use of mind-altering substances. This leads me to the next question I've often been asked...

"Aren't you bored out there? What's there to do for a whole week in the desert?"

Truth of the matter is, there are more things to do than you could imagine. Despite warnings from experienced Burners that it would be impossible to see and do it all, I tried anyway. I would make daily plans and agendas. Then I would happily get distracted along the way and never even make it to my destination. I had caught Burning Man A.D.D. I remember my second day of exploration. I was en route to a Yoga Twerkshop when I decided that it was too hot and stopped for a Champagne Snow Cone at one of the theme camps. Then a gentleman stopped and asked me to help him find his Soul Mate. How could anybody say no and deny this man of his soul mate? This led me to a salon where I got a massage and body art. As I began on my journey again for the Yoga Twerkshop, I came across a camp offering Mimosas with Samosas (who could turn that down?) and decided to join them for deep conversations on Playa life. The conversation then turned to Playa events and I was asked if I would care to partake in Prom night--yes Burning Man Prom exists. So will you get bored? Likely--no. And if you do, you can always just give God a call and have a chat. 

Photo Credit: Chris Dotson

I could go on and on about chasing after fire-spitting dragons and octopus', then climbing aboard these art cars to enjoy a cup of soothing Yerba Mate while dancing to the calming drum beats. The childhood joys of rolling around the rubber grass art installation in the middle of the Playa that illuminated under the starry desert night sky. Or the emotions that are aroused while reading the pained memories that others have penned on the wooden walls of the Temple. But all of my babbling would probably not make any sense. 

Your only solution to really discovering the Truth about Burning Man is to just attend and find out for yourself what Burning Man means to you. 

Get ready for it! There are only 360 days until life on the Playa will return once again.

The Southeast Asia Edition: Your Top 13 Must-Do's in Thailand

Southeast Asia has always been a backpacking haven. The region attracts the most visitors between November and March when people are looking to escape the cold winter months back home. The interest in this region continues to grow as evidenced by the sheer volume of requests I've been receiving for Southeast Asia travel tips. 

"What should I do when I go to Southeast Asia? Any tips on must-visit places?" Well... yes indeed! However, considering the numerous countries that the Southeast Asia travel route encompasses this is a ridiculously TOUGH question to answer. So I thought I'd start this edition with some tips on visiting the travel hub of Southeast Asia: Thailand. If you're headed off to Thailand, here are the top 13 must-do highlights while you're visiting. 

1. Eat Street Food. Eat LOTS of Street Food.
The best thing about traveling is eating the local food. Locals are not eating at the 5-star hotels and restaurants. They're eating from the street vendors. The food is cheap, delicious, and you'll get to experience the real deal! Scared of getting diarrhea? Read #8 on this post for avoiding diarrhea while traveling.

2. Visit Temples.
Thailand is filled with temples galore. Beautiful temples. Even if you're not into temples you should definitely visit at least a few. You'll be awe'd by the intricate details and magnitude of the structures.

3. Join the Full Moon Party.
Once a month, a crowd of tens of thousands gather on the beaches of Ko Pha Ngan to dance from dusk til dawn under the full moon. Music ranging from trance and house to reggae and R&B blare all along the beach as jugglers and fire-eaters entertain the revelers. Even if you're not a rager this is a must-see event you should experience at least once. For details on when the next event will be held and tips for attending, visit the Full Moon Party Page.

4. Go Scuba Diving.
Thailand is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the world. So diving is a must! If you aren't already certified, you can do so in Thailand. It takes about 3 days and is safe and very affordable. 


5. Play on the Beaches.
Not into scuba diving? No problem. Just hang out on one of the many beaches in Thailand. The water is crystal clear and the backdrop is breathtaking. What more could you ask for?

6. Take a Tuk-Tuk Ride.
Tuk-Tuk's are the taxi's of Thailand. They can be a bit of an oddity if it's your first time riding in one. You might even feel a bit unsafe with only a metal bar keeping you inside. Worry not! With Lonely Planet's tips, you'll be a tuk-tuk riding pro in no time! 


7. Get a Massage... or Two!
Thai massages typically involve stretching and a deep massage. At only $7-15 USD (depending on your negotiation skills) for a one hour massage, you can afford to spoil yourself! 


8. Visit a Fish Spa.
Though banned in several states in the U.S., fish spas are widely available in Thailand where toothless Garra rufa fish, the size of minnows, nibble away at dry, dead skin on your feet. There is controversy over health risks of these spas. I would definitely recommend only going to spas where they thoroughly clean your legs and feet and check for any cuts prior to allowing you into the spa. Get ready to giggle! It tickles!

9. Volunteer with the Elephant Nature Park.
Everyone has "riding an elephant" on their bucket list. What most people don't realize is the abuse elephants undergo to be "trained" for allowing people to ride on them. Elephants are beaten with bullhooks and endure spinal injury from the weight of carrying baskets full of people all day long. So instead of riding an elephant, volunteer for a day with the Elephant Nature Park, an elephant rescue and rehabilitation center in Chiang Mai. In all my years of traveling, this was one of my most memorable experiences. Expect to spend a whole day cleaning, feeding, and playing with your elephant. You even get to ride the elephant! Instead of electric prods, bullhooks, and heavy baskets full of people, it'll just be you riding bareback on your elephant!

10. Drink From a Bucket!
Thailand is known for buckets. Essentially it's colorful little sand pail filled with ice. You choose a small bottle of spirits, a mixer, and pour both into the bucket. Throw a few straws in and sip away with your buddies!  

11. Attend a Muay Thai Match. 
Experience the real deal in Thailand! The energy and intense atmosphere are incredible. You also learn that Muay Thai is not about knocking someone out. While the goal is to win, athletes will show respect during the match. Ratchadamnoen And Lumpinee are the two stadiums in Bangkok offering fights on alternating days of the week. 

 

12. Then Train Muay Thai For a Day!
Feeling inspired after watching some Muay Thai fights? There are several boxing gyms and camps throughout Thailand that offer training for as short as one session to multiple sessions over several months. Note that these are not air-conditioned, indoor gyms. You'll be training in the heat so be ready to work up a sweat!

13. Have a REAL coconut.
Forget about paying $3-4 for tiny little containers of artificially sweetened coconut water. Try the real thing in Thailand! For as little as $0.50 you can have a fresh, whole young coconut. Be sure to have a spoon ready to scoop out all the tender coconut meat after you finish sipping the juice. Healthy and refreshing without breaking the bank!

Tips For First Time Travelers

Virgin Traveler. We've all been one before. Even for those who aren't virgins, traveling can offer a mix of emotions. It's exciting with all the new experiences and endless possibilities. At the same time, it can feel a bit daunting and uncomfortable because of all the unknowns. 

I often reflect on the first time I ever REALLY traveled. It was October 2006 and I was headed off to Spain. Boy was I a NOOB! I've gained some wisdom along the way on traveling practicalities as well as having a new perspective on life experiences. For the young, inexperienced, "noob" traveler that I once was, and for all of you who may be looking for some tips to make your journey a little easier, this post is dedicated to you!

The Practical Tips

1. Pack light. 

Trust me when I say this: You won't use half the clothes you think you might need. If you're not sure if you need it, don't pack it. You can buy most things overseas. Whether you're traveling for two weeks or two months, pack the same amount. Laundromats are your friend! Check this out for some packing tips. You'll be happier not lugging around a heavy suitcase! Speaking of which...

2. Invest in distinctive looking luggage.

Surprise! You're not the only one with a black suitcase. Or a red one for that matter. Go with patterned luggage or personalize your bag with something unique like a bright yellow ribbon or iron-on patches. As a matter of fact, I'd actually recommend not even using a roller suitcase because...

3. Backpacks are easier to travel with.
Roller suitcases are nice at airports, but once you get to your destination where there are stairs galore and cobblestone or dirt roads, you'll find that the wheels aren't so friendly anymore.

4. Adapters and Converters are not the same.
An adapter simply changes the shape of the plug to match the outlet. Converters change the voltage used in a foreign country to the voltage required for a particular AC device. Your best bet is to buy an all-in-one adapter/converter.

5. Use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees. 

Check your policy. Even a number of American Express cards charge fees! If you're looking for a good card, I recommend the Capital VentureOne: No foreign transaction fees, no annual fee, AND you get flexible reward points!

6. Bring your ATM card. 

Travelers checks are a thing of the past and some places may only take cash. ATMs are plentiful and tend to give you the best exchange rates. Just be sure to check with your bank on fees and notify them of your travel so your card does not get blocked.

7. Scan a copy of your passport. 

Email the scanned image to your family and to yourself. If you lose your passport or need a copy of it, you'll have it right at your fingertips!

8. Buy a simple, cheap travel watch. 

Don't rely on your phone to tell time--the batteries may die or you may lose it. And you don't want to attract unwanted attention with a Rolex. Just buy a watch with basic functionalities like... telling the time! An alarm would be useful too.

9. Turn your phone to airplane mode. 

If you don't have a global plan, using your phone overseas for calls, texts, or data can get very expensive. Use WiFi instead. It does not count toward your data allowance and is readily available in many airports, hotels, and restaurants. To communicate over WiFi, use apps like WhatsApp. For iPhone users, iChat will also over WiFi.

10. Bring your "go-to" drugs. 

There's always a chance you'll get sick and if you're anything like me, you'll want Theraflu when you're feeling ill. Unfortunately, it's pretty hard to find Theraflu overseas. So pack it! And don't forget to include some Imodium in your bag... just in case.

11. Sleep on your flight according to your destination time zone.
As soon as you board, set your simple, cheap travel watch to the time at your destination and sleep accordingly. This will help you immensely with fighting jet lag. At least it does for me!

12. Tipping rules vary by country. 

CCRA is a great resource to review before your trip.

13. Use your room key to activate the electricity. 

Who knew? I certainly didn't! Apparently, in many foreign countries, you have to insert your room key into a wall slot to trigger the electricity in your hotel room. I learned this the hard way after notifying the front desk receptionist that there was no electricity in my room. Silly American!

And now... for some deeper advice

14. Don't over plan. 
Have a general idea of what you want to see and do, but don't plan every second of your trip. Allow yourself to take it slow, absorb the moments, and be flexible. You never know who you'll end up meeting along the way or what happy accidents might come across your path that could change the course of your journey.

15. Accept that things will go wrong.
Your flight will be delayed. Your luggage will be lost. You might even get pick-pocketed. Things don't always work out perfectly. Accept this before you start your trip and you'll be able to enjoy your journey regardless of what happens. In the end, it's usually these awry moments that lend to the best stories!

16. Don't skip out on an experience.
It might be expensive. It might be out of your comfort zone. But when will you return to this place again? And how much time and money did it already cost you to get here? So just do it! You don't want to return home having any regret.

17. Be open to the endless possibilities.
Traveling the world can offer you more than you could ever expect. Keep an open mind and allow yourself to immerse into the culture and connect with the people you meet during your travels. You'll stand to gain so much more out of your experience.

18. It's easier to travel than you think.
There are plenty of people out there traveling. It's not as scary as you might think. You may feel uncomfortable right now, but being uncomfortable is how you grow. Even for people who have traveled plenty, the nervous jitters from all the newness never fully goes away. It's an exciting feeling!


And finally, my last tip: Learn to toilet squat. You'll need it at some point during your world travels!

The Burning Man Edition: Newbie Orientation Tips & Tricks

Just four months away from popping my Burning Man cherry! Can you tell I'm excited? Along with the excitement and anticipation for this experience, I must admit I was beginning to feel a bit of angst. Where will I be camping? How do I prepare? What is this "gifting" business? How am I going to lug clothing, food, a bike, and other necessities to get me through an entire week in the desert?! As fate would have it, just as I was mulling over these questions an email popped into my inbox from the Jack Rabbit Speaks: Burning Man's official Email Newsletter. This edition announced the Newbie Orientation and Participation Faire to "meet your fellow virgins and learn tips and tricks from veteran Burners!" What perfect timing!

As any newbie burner would do, I attended the orientation this past weekend. Not only did I get a lot of great hints and tricks--things you wouldn't even think about unless you're an experienced Burner, but I even received my very first Burning Man gift: A pink bracelet. It's pretty f*#^ing awesome isn't it? 

I'm sure ALL the other San Francisco newbie Burners attended this orientation. BUT if you happened to miss it, here's a summary of everything I learned!

Tickets

• Don't have a ticket? Don't worry! Plan like you have a ticket. A lot of tickets go on sale right before the event in July/August.
• Don't buy tickets through third-party (i.e., Craigslist). Instead, use the Secured Ticket Exchange Program (STEP), an online system that facilitates resale of already-purchased tickets. Helps you avoid scams and people trying to upsell. You have to register via your Burner Profile. 
• There will also be 1,000 tickets released at 12pm (noon) PDT July 31st. You need to pre-register by creating a Burner Profile to be eligible for these tickets.

City Layout

• You can think of Black Rock City as a clock with Center Camp located in the center by 06:00.
• The man is in the middle of the clock.
• The area between 10:00 and 02:00 is an open area for art and the Temple.
• The inner-most "street" is the "Esplanade" where you'll always find something going on! 
• From the Esplanade moving outwards the streets are named alphabetically from "A" to "L". 
• For more information on 2013's layout visit the Burning Man Survival Guide.

SURVIVAL

Elements

• It's dusty! You'll get dust in every nook and cranny. Be prepared to get dirty!
• It's windy! Prepare for up to 80mph winds. 
• It's high altitude--3,848 feet! It'll take you a day to adjust so try to take it easy on day 1.

Shelter

• RV: If you plan on renting an RV, do it soon. They sell out fast and prices increase exponentially. If you haven't already rented your RV, do it NOW.
• Tents:
• Do not use a tent with mesh. You'll have a dusty mess inside if you do.
• Secure your tent from high winds with rebars. Buy 5 or 6 rebars (~12-18 inches) from Home Depot and ask them to bend it for you. 
• Buy your rebars NOW! Home Depot will run out of them during the few weeks prior to Burning Man.
• Cover your rebars. One of the #1 injuries is from tripping and landing on uncovered rebars.
• Shade Cover: Depending on where you plan on camping, you'll need to build your own shade cover. It'll get hot and you'll appreciate it!
• Where to Camp: There are theme camps and open camping. 

Water

• Estimate ~1.5 gallons of water per person per day.
• Your body will need more than just plain water to stay healthy and hydrated. Bring electrolytes and have at least one packet a day.
• Bring more water than you think you'll need. Better to have extra water than trying to ration out water during your last few days.
• If you happen to run out of water ice is sold on the Playa for $3/bag. Leave the ice in the ice bag when using it to keep your cooler chilled. When it's melted, voila! You have fresh, cold water to drink. 
• Gray water disposal: You'll have to lug it back out or invest in an evaporation pump for your camp--a worthwhile investment vs. lugging all this nasty water out!

Food

• You'll eat less than you think so pack highly flavored salty foods that will provide you with necessary sustenance.
• Pack enough food to share, but not waste.
• Depending on what camp you stay at, there may be kitchens available for use.
• Bring a cooler. Ice can be purchased.
• Remove excess packaging on food before you get to Burning Man so you don't have to haul it out after.
• Leftover food and drink can be donated to the Burning Man Department of Public Works (DPW). They stay after to take down/clean the Playa and will appreciate your donations.
• There is a recycling program that takes cans from 9-5 daily.

Clothing

• Do not wear anything with feathers, sequins, or loose bits that will fall off and shed on the Playa. You will get dirty looks because everything brought onto the Playa has to be cleaned and removed after. Feathers and sequins are not fun to clean from the desert sand!
• Costumes are not a requirement. If you do want to costume up, check out thrift stores, the large sizes in kids section (for ladies), or ladies section (for men).
• Costume from the ankles up, but wear comfortable shoes. You'll be running around for the entire week. While stilettos might look cute, they aren't desert friendly! Neither are sandals.
• Layers will be your friend. It can get to 100°F during the day then drop to 30°F at night.
• Wear clothing that combines utility, comfort, and expression.
• Pack an Exodus outfit into a ziplock bag and DO NOT TOUCH IT! Leave it in your car. You'll appreciate having clean clothes when you leave.

Bikes

• Don't bring a good bike. There's a high probability your bike will get messed up or lost.
• Personalize your bike with decorations and lights. How else will you identify it among the 50,000 other bikes out there?
• Have a lock for your bike. Combination locks work best because you'll likely lose your keys unless you attach the keys onto your body at all times. Don't use "BURN" as your combination. 
• Get a bike with fat tires and bring spare tubes.
• There will be green community bikes for use. They're only for one-way use so don't depend on just using these bikes. And don't bring a green bike! People might mistake it for a community bike and "borrow" it.
• DO NOT leave your bike on the Playa after Burning Man. Take it with you. Upon exiting, there will be a place for you to donate your bike.

Personal Safety

• Buy LEDs from REI and light yourself front and back! There are no roads and minimal lights. You'll want all the other bikers and walkers to see you!
• Examine the "light signature" of your friends before you head out each night. Everyone will be lit and you'll want to be able to ID your friends in the sea of lights!
• Burning Man is equipped with basic medical services. They even have the capability to stitch you up if needed! If you end up with more severe injuries, you'll be transported to the local hospital.

Emotional Health

• Everyone will be experiencing HALT emotions (hungry, angry, lonely, tired) at some point due to the extreme conditions. Communication can become challenging. Keep that in mind.
• Remember to get rest, go into shade, and take your electrolytes!
• If you're on medications/vitamin supplements at home, keep taking them on the Playa. This is not the time or place to experiment with not taking them!

Day Pack

• When you leave your camp in the morning, it is likely you will not be coming back to your camp anytime soon. Keep a day pack with you!
• Pack these essentials into your day pack:
• Water
• Goggles - Military surplus goggles are recommended to block sun, wind, and dust
• Sunblock - spray cans in the highest SPF is recommended
• Reusable cups, plates, utensils -- many bars only serve you alcohol in your own cup
• Dust mask/bandana
• Snacks
• Chapstick with SPF
• Pen/Paper for leaving love notes!
• MOOP bag
• Headlamp
• ID if you plan on drinking

Personal Hygiene

• Bring baby wipes for "showers".
• Spray bottles (like insecticide bottles, though not filled with insecticide!) make for great "showers" when filled with water.
• Non-rinse shampoos and body washes will be your friend!

BURNING MAN PRINCIPLES/CULTURE

Leave No Trace

• The basic idea:  "leave the place you visit the same or better than you found it; leave no trace of your having been there".
• MOOP (Matter Out Of Place) includes wood/sawdust and cigarette butts.
• For cigarette smokers: Carry around an Altoid tin to keep your cigarette butts.
• DPW holds a daily MOOP pub crawl--it's actually kind of fun!
• You'll be responsible for line-sweeping your camp.

Participation

• Don't be just a spectator! Participate! Whether it's interacting with the interactive artwork or attending workshops / events: experience Burning Man!
• Want to get more involved? Plenty of opportunities to volunteer. You can pre-signup to volunteer or just visit the V-Spot in Center Camp while at Burning Man. If you love being artsy crafty like me, there are numerous craft parties over the summer to create Center Camp decorations! Here's the schedule: 
  

Etiquette

• It'll be loud. Bring ear plugs!
• Be respectful of people, art, and porta potties. 
• If someone says "don't take a picture", don't take it. 
• If artwork says "don't touch", don't touch it. 
• Porta potties will be used for an entire week and somebody has to clean it. Don't throw anything into the porta potties except your human waste and toilet paper! Would you want to be the person unclogging a pork chop from the porta potty?
• Ask permission before photographing individuals or entering someone's private space.

Say Yes To

• New friends and experiences 
• While being sensitive to your morals, health, and well-being
• And trying something outside of what you'd normally do. Push yourself and step out of your comfort zone!

Gifting

• Burning Man is NOT a commercial or trade/barter system.
• Gifting is common, but not required.
• Gifts do not have to be physical gifts. Oftentimes, non-physical gifts are the most meaningful (i.e., a hug, a love letter, etc.).

De-Commodification

• Cover all logos. If renting a U-Haul, cover the logo after you've parked. A great tip: Use Playa dust and water for great covering that is easily removable!
• No product sampling permitted.

Art

• There are both funded and unfunded art.
• During Burning Man, maps will be handed out and art tours will be available.
• Some art will be interactive--play with it, but don't break it.

Mutant Vehicles

• Mutant Vehicles are modified motorized vehicles that show little resemblance to their original form. These are the only vehicles allowed to drive on the Playa.
• Mutant Vehicles drive around with no particular destination or route.
• Rides are one-way since you don't know where the vehicle is headed. Hop on for a "choose your own adventure" experience!
• For safety reasons, only get on when it's NOT moving!

Law Enforcement

• Black Rock Rangers are not law enforcement. They are there to mediate and can call law enforcement if necessary.
• Law enforcement will be dressed up like participants and in art cars too--you won't be able to tell who they are.
• All Nevada laws apply on the Playa:
• Medical marijuana cards are not legal.
• Underage drinking and open container laws are in place. When you arrive, don't open that can of beer until you are parked!
• Cops will be wearing night vision goggles.
• If something smells fishy at your camp, it gives cops the right to search your entire camp.
• Do not obscure your license plate with your bike. This was one of the #1 reasons people got pulled over in 2013.
• Know your rights! 

TRAVEL

Before You Leave Home

• Be well-rested. It'll be a long trip.
• Secure and check your load on your car. 
• "Ticket On Forehead" policy: Before you take off, have everyone stick their ticket on their forehead to make sure nobody forgot their ticket! Sounds silly, but your entire car will be turned away if even one person doesn't have their ticket.
• Make sure your car is happy and not dripping! If your car is dripping you will need to bring something to catch it.

Travel Options

• RVs: Book them ASAP!
• Rideshare/Carpool: Search the database to carpool.
• Fly into Reno Airport.
• Burner Express - Buses will be available from Reno and San Francisco. There will be a luggage allowance so this option is best for people that have others transporting all the necessities for them.

Driving on Highway 447

• This is a 2-lane road on Native American Land. Speed limits are taken seriously and you will be pulled over for going 27mph on the 25mph road!
• Beware the suicidal jackrabbits! They'll run in front of your car, but don't swerve to avoid them and jeopardize your own safety. It's not worth it. Just hit them.
• Indian Tacos are delicious. Stop for some.
• Don't buy fireworks. They're not allowed on the Playa.

Arrival at the Gate

• Speed limit is 10mph. Obey it!
• Upon arriving at gate you will be asked to show ticket and your vehicle may be searched. Do not get out of car unless asked to do so.
• Stay in right-most lane for Will Call ticket pickup.
• After going through Gate you will pass by Greeters who will give you welcome hugs and event information! Stay in car and don't crack open a beer just yet!
• No early arrivals. You'll be placed in a waiting zone if you do and it will end up taking you longer to get in.

Exodus

• Listen to BMIR (Burning Man radio station) at 94.5 FM for updates on traffic.
• Stay well rested and sober.
• Secure and check load -- trash on the highway is not cool!
• Keep plenty of food and water in car.
• Change into clean clothes (remember the ones you packed away in a Ziplock bag?) at the last pulsing point.
• Have a DD just for exodus (it'll be long and exhausting), then switch to someone else to be DD post-exodus.

OTHER TIPS

• When applying sunblock, put it ALL OVER. Even under that skirt. Sun reflects off the sand!
• Take a picture of your name, email, and what camp you're staying at. Store this as the first picture on your phone or the screen lock picture. It'll help to track you down when your phone is found!
• Bring spare headlamps, batteries, and bike locks. You'll likely lose at least one.
• Attach anything you don't want to lose on yourself. Carabiners will be your friend!
• Bring watertight protective bags for cameras and electronic gear. Don't bring anything you aren't afraid to lose/get dusty.
• Mark your camp with something distinctive. You'll appreciate it when you stumble home late at night!
• Bring duct tape. You'll find some use for it!
• Make a copy of your ID and tape it to your reusable cup. Keep your actual ID at your camp. This way you won't lose your ID and will have it readily available when purchasing drinks!
• Last, but not least, do yourself a favor and sign up for the Jack Rabbit Speaks. It's a great way to keep on top of the latest Burning Man happenings!

The Jordan Edition - Beyond Petra: Rummaging through the Desert in Wadi Rum

The Treasury in Petra

Not many people have Jordan at the top of their "Must Visit" list of travel destinations. Those that do usually only have Jordan in their consideration set because of Petra--one of the New 7 Wonders of the World (also where Transformers was filmed)! While I absolutely loved my experience in Petra, I must admit that Wadi Rum actually topped Petra for me. 

Wadi Rum, known as The Valley of the Moon, is the largest, most beautiful valley in Jordan. The only inhabitants in the area are the several thousand villagers and Bedouins, the nomadic Arabs of the desert. Wadi Rum lacks any sort of real infrastructure aside from the Bedouin goat hair tents, leaving the area quite natural and untouched. With the beautiful landscape of sandstone mountains plus the extensive history, Wadi Rum should be a "Must Visit" on everyone's list of travel destinations! 

So how exactly do you get here and what can you do in Wadi Rum? First of all, you should definitely pre-book a tour with local guides prior to arrival. This will ensure you have the best itinerary during your stay. I highly recommend Bedouin Directions, currently ranked #2 on Trip Advisor. I organized a trip for 7 of us and contacted numerous local guides. From the get-go Mehedi, owner of Bedouin Directions, was welcoming and very responsive. We only had 1.5 days to spend in Wadi Rum and Mehedi was able to help us create an itinerary that included everything we wanted to do during that time. As you're working with your tour company on developing an itinerary, here are some things to consider.

How to Get Here
There are three options for getting to Wadi Rum: 1) Drive, 2) Bus, 3) Taxi. The number of people in your party, how much you're willing to spend, and the amount of flexibility you prefer will determine which mode of transportation you choose. In general, the roads are good and not too busy (aside from Amman, the most busy city of the country) making Jordan a relatively easy country to drive in. For flexibility to explore the country, renting a car is definitely the way to go. More details on timing and costs can be found on Bedouin Directions Page on Transportation. 

What to Do

Tour of the Desert

The main attraction is... well... the desert! There are amazing rock formations you can scramble and sand dunes galore for you to roll down. Best way to see the desert:

Four Wheel Drive

Least bumpy, but difficult to see everything/take photos from within the vehicle. We opted not to use this mode of transportation.

Open-Air Pickup Truck

A bit of a bumpy ride, but great for photo ops and seeing everything as you drive through the desert. Have a scarf to wrap around your nose/mouth--the ride gets dusty!

Camel

Lots of fun... for the first 30-40 minutes. Any more than that and the ride is no longer exciting. Plus your legs/butt start hurting--I speak from personal experience! 

Roll Down Sand Dunes
Sure... you'll get sand all over (even in your underwear) and you'll be finding sand in your ear for the next few days, but when will you ever get to roll down such massive sand dunes again?!

Climb and Scramble
There are so many amazing sand structures and boulders to climb and scramble on. Be a kid again and enjoy it!

Stay Overnight in a Bedouin Camp
Eating, drinking, and dancing with the local Bedouins, sleeping in Bedouin tents, and laying under a clear evening sky while star-gazing. What more could you ask for?

What to See
As you plan out your desert tour, be sure to include these highlights in your itinerary!

Lawrence Spring

Walk up through rocks and boulders to find the water plus a lovely fig tree to rest under. The view across the Wadi from here is legendary! 

View from Lawrence Spring

Khazali Canyon

This canyon is a deep fissure in the mountainside and contains many beautiful ancient rock inscriptions.   

Hiking Through Khazali Canyon

Red Sand Dunes
Where the white and red sand meet, this is a beautiful area where you can climb up the sand dune for a breathtaking view at the top. Coming down, you can run and frolick! Or if you're feeling adventurous, might I suggest rolling down it?

View from Atop Red Sand Dunes

House of Lawrence
As with a lot of ancient history, nobody is certain that this was Lawrence of Arabia's house. However, there are stories that say he both stayed and/or stored weapons in this Nabataean structure during the Great Arab Revolution. Regardless of what truly happened, this site offers a wonderful view. The house itself is a bunch of rubble, and unimpressive. 

House of Lawrence

Burdah Arch

The best known site is the Burdah Arch, a natural rock bridge set high up on the mountain approximately 20km from Rum Village and 300m high. Traversing up this mountain requires either climbing/roping or scrambling depending on the route chosen. The view from above is supposed to be magnificent. Since my time was limited, I could not fit in the 4-hours required to make it up and back down. I only got to see the Arch from afar. However, if you have the time and energy, I'd say to do it!  

Um Frouth Arch

A much smaller version of Burdah Arch, this natural rock bridge created by many years of water and wind is only 12-15m high. It is a fairly easy climb to the top for those that are not afraid of heights! The bridge itself is quite narrow.

On Top of the Um Frouth Arch

"The Chicken"
A unique 2 legged rock that travelers can scramble up. There is a wonderful view across the red desert to the white desert from here. This is also a great location to watch the sunset! 

Scrambling Up "The Chicken"

Additional Tips
Entrance Fee to Wadi Rum: 5JD per person payable at visitor center.

Parking: If you plan to rent a car, you will reach the visitor center first where you will need to buy your entrance ticket. Then you can drive to the Rum Village where there is a parking lot to leave your vehicle. 

Accommodations: You're staying in the desert so don't expect 5-star accommodations! The tents are quite comfortable with mattresses and plenty of warm blankets and there are cold showers to keep you clean. Meals are simple, but delicious. As an example, for dinner we were served Zarb (food cooked under the sand), which included chicken and potatoes. Breakfast was pita with some jams and fruit spreads. Lunch during our desert tour was a delicious seafood stew served with pita, hummus, and fruits. Not heavy and filling, but very tasty.

Zarb Dinner

Length of Stay: This ultimately depends on how much of the area you want to see and what you want to do. I would recommend a minimum of 2 full days. 

Extra Luggage: Bring only what you need into the desert. Your local guide should be able to securely store your extra luggage by the Rum Village.

Have Fun!! This is an amazing experience!