Category: Travel

Posted in Travel

Ya’mon! Montego Bay, Jamaica

Posted on by becominglu
A little kiss

Planning a trip to Jamaica? Get ready for one of the best experiences of your life! Jamaica has some of the most beautiful people and with the most amazing outlooks on life. So let’s start! Where to stay?

We stayed in Riu Montego Bay. It was an all inclusive resort, jammed packed with activities, music, food, and FUN! The staff quickly became friends. See pictures below from the actual hotel’s site.

  • Riu Montego Bay
  • Riu Montego Bay

The resort is safe and does not allow any locals. However, you will see a local or two in their personal boats trying to sell you weed. They are quickly push away by security.

He was very funny & even sang us a song, lol
We took a picture on his boat, before security made him leave. lol

Although it rained most of our time there, we refused to let it stop any fun. Our first day we decided to enjoy a day party on a boat and snorkeling. On board they offered free mixed drinks, lots of RUM punch for the drinkers and nonalcoholic drinks for people like myself.

Side note: These activities can be booked in the hotel lobby.

Next stop, Dunn’s River Falls. Make sure you have your water shoes, waterproof case for your phone, and your energy! This was a guided tour to the top of water falls, rocks, and cold water! You can go by yourself or with a group, I suggest a group.

  • TAt the bottom before the climb…
  • Here goes…
  • Half Way Point..

The next day we decided we would go swim with the dolphins! We took a bus to the from our resort to the location. This was also booked through the hotel lobby for about $75 USD. We quickly became really cool with the staff so we were able to do a lot more than just see the dolphins.. First stop, the camels.

After the camels, we went swimming with the dolphins. The have life jackets available and instructors that will assist you if you are scared. The pictures were not included but available for an additional $45, well worth it to document the experience.

After swimming with the dolphins, our friends took us behind the scenes to interact with he dolphins like the trainers do. We fed them, rehearsed tricks, and just bonded. Honestly one of the dopest experiences, ever.

If crazy adventurous isn’t your thing, you can always relax by the pool, lay out on the beach, or visit neighboring areas. Negril, isn’t far and it is absolutely beautiful. There are guided tours that are offered that are easy, informative, and you may even learn a little Jamaican along the way… but whatever you do, enjoy yourself! Ya’mon!

Hakuna Matata

… it means no worries

Posted in Cape Town, South Africa, Travel

The “REAL” Cape Town, South Africa

Posted on by becominglu

Cape Town, South Africa!!! I will start with my favorite part of visiting Cape Town, Imizamo Yethu.


The Townships was by far the most humbling experience ever. When I visit again, I will spend more time with these beautiful people volunteering my time and money. They were so welcoming and loving. No amount of words or pictures can or will ever describe the impact they had on my life or the gratitude I have for them opening up their homes and hearts to me.

We were greeted by our beautiful guide, Thobeka. I really have to sing praises to her because she was absolutely amazing. Although employed by the company we booked the visit with, she lives in the township and lives in the same poverty.


When we arrived at Imizamo Yethu we noticed the people going through trash searching for things that can be used for the people in their community. Cape Town is experiencing a water shortage right now and Thobeka stated that the people in the townships can go several days without running water.

While there I was informed that although Nelson Mandela in his great work made segregation illegal the city is still very much segregated. They are separated by the Rich South Africans (predominately white), poor South Africans (black), and the colored (I am considered colored there, lol) The rich and poor are literally separated by a street.

We were allowed to tour their houses and the above picture is the inside of one of the houses that would be considered the “best” of all. Most houses do not have running water or windows. This home above had both, huge luxury there. Below is what the typical homes in the townships look like.

Most kids live with their grandmothers, as the their outrageous number of teenage pregnancy, HIV, and rape.

Above is the pre-school and the daycare center for babies/toddlers. There can be as many as 60 kids per class. During the summer months there is a group of teachers that volunteer and helps the children in areas they struggle.

Most of these people make as little as $11.68 per day. Although there are government assistance programs in place, they can only receive $400 ($30USD) rand a month. Needless to say, this isn’t enough to live on for any family. Meals consist of foods that are cheap, filling, and can feed a large amount of people.

Cooling down

Cape Town has a water shortage right now so these people can go up to several days without water. As previously mentioned, most homes do not have running water so they share a water spout.

The kids are so talented and some of the most genuine souls I ever met. They asked if we were their cousins because most black foreigners don’t visit. This community has received help from some different countries and Thobeka made it known that they do not receive any money or help from the money donated to these large corporations. It is best to give directly or connect with one of the local churches/schools.

I even managed to get a few smiles by handing out some treats.

If you plan to visit South Africa, the biggest tip I can give you is spend the majority of your time here.

“Just when I think I have learned the way to live, life changes. “

Posted in Travel

Sky-walking Jin Mao Tower in Shanghai, China

Posted on by becominglu

On our way to Thailand, we decided we would make a quick stop in Shanghai, China. We made it Shanghai around 10pm that night, so we knew we wouldn’t have much time and needed to decide what was most important to us to experience. The next morning we exchanged our money and took the subway into the city.

I would advise to exchange your money at the airport the rate is free as opposed to the city. The transit was about $3USD. The 1 Chinese Yuan converts to $0.15 USD.

We quickly realized that just as fascinated as we were about the sites, the people were just as amazed by us. Everywhere we went people were taking videos, pictures, or just staring. Let’s say, I would never want to be famous. Cause’ although it was flattering we couldn’t do anything without a flick of people watching and recording our every move.

The City

Once we arrived in the city, we decided we would do the typical tourist things and sightsee and it was beautiful. Although it was beautiful the air quality in Shanghai is awful. We seen several people walking around with mask over their mouths to protect themselves as much as possible.

This picture was taken around 2pm. It was a very sunny day, although the pollution made it seem as though it was cloudy.

1,380 Feet Tall (29th tallest building in the World)

We decided that for $18 USD we would walk on a glass ledge 1,115 feet, 88 floors above ground with no handrails. It is said to be the world’s highest walkway without rails only a harness. It’s glass ledge adds to the intensity.

My adrenaline was rushing! The pollution is awful even at this level.

We did it and it was one of the most liberating experiences. It’s something about being on that ledge that made you feel free.

We received a picture and medal for completing the entire experience

Not many people can say they have walked on the sky walked 88 floors high with no handrails… but WE DID IT!!

A few pictures from inside the tower below.

Posted in Travel

My First Ski Trip Breckenridge, Colorado .

Posted on by becominglu
One day we are in the gym and my cousin says, “Flights to Denver are only $60 round trip, we should go!” Next thing you know, we are on a flight to Denver in February! It’s 14 black people, on a flight to Denver… to ski! Hmmm! Lol! Here we go.
We rented this beautiful house that seems a bit rustic on the outside but, on the inside was complete luxury. There was 3 stories, 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a game room, hot tub, and all the essentials needed for some good ol’ fashion fun in the snow.
First time skiing
We rented our ski clothing from MountainThreads.com and it was a very affordable and smart decision. The company dropped the clothing off at our house and picked it back up when we were done. The jacket, pants, gloves, and goggles were only around $30 a day. Trust me, it is WORTH IT! We rented the ski boots, sticks, and skis at the resort.
The “Pizza” will save your life on the slopes, lol
We attended “Ski School” to learn the basics before hitting the slopes alone. There was a lot of gliding and falling. The snow was very soft, so thankfully we were not aching the next day.
Snowmobiling was one of the highlights of our time in Breck. Although, I may or may not have fallen off the snowmobile in a tight curve.
The Gang
Prior to heading out on the route the instructors take you through a brief training to ensure everyone is comfortable. There are some tight curves and pretty steep climbs to the top of the mountain.
Views from the Top
Once we made it to the top we were allowed to look around and pose for several photos. The views were truly breathtaking.
Dogsledding was offered at the same location of the snowmobiles, but were sold out when we tried to book. I would suggest booking all excursions in advance as they fill up quickly. Planning is essential if you are anticipating large group.
Not as adventurous as others? Try tubing! Tubing was low impact fun that a big or small group can enjoy. Although it didn’t require much, it packed a big punch! The instructors allowed you to go down as a single, group, or ever race one another.
The most stressful fun ever!
At night we enjoyed a few local lounges, however the Escape Room proved to be the most stressful. 10 people working to figure out how to Escape the cabin before the avalanche hits. Of course we made it out!
If you are looking for good free fun, then step right outside your door and enjoy nature. We played in the snow, had snowball fights, sled down the hills, and just simply enjoyed the views.
That’s all folks!
Breckenridge offers fun for all ages. The views were immaculate, the adventures spoke to the adrenaline junky in me, and my tribe, well I wouldn’t trade them for the world!
Reminders:
  • Drink plenty of water before your trip and during and pack headache medicine. The altitude can cause dehydration and headaches so it is advised. (Keep alcohol to a minimum and utilize Oxygen bars or rentals to help adjust – altitude sickness is no joke!)
  • If you have never hit the slopes before, ski school is needed.
  • You can Uber/Lyft or utilize “Breck Free Ride” bus system to any area. A rental car is not needed
  • HAVE FUN!!!
Posted in Travel

MY MUST DO THINGS IN THAILAND

Posted on by becominglu

Thailand has so many amazing things to do that it can become a bit overwhelming, but be quite rewarding for your bucket list. I mean let’s be honest, Thailand is known for its opulent beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque temples

Elephant Sanctuary– Gentle Giants! We rode the elephants, bathed them, and for an extra 100 Baht (Approximately $3 USD) you can feed the Elephants. Feeding the elephants was the highlight of my experience. I never imagined them having so much personality! This Elephant Sanctuary also allows you to visit the tigers and floating market. http://www.tigertemplethailand.com


Damnoen Saduak Floating Market – Damneon is one of the more well known Floating markets and although it sits about an hour outside of Bangkok it is one of the most popular floating markets in the area. One of the things I admired most about this market was the vast majority of women working and providing for their families by selling various goods, foods, and/or services.  As you travel through the market in your long tail boat, be prepared to bargain and don’t be bashful about it! If you don’t do anything else, try the coconut ice cream! It was delicious! http://www.tigertemplethailand.com

The green is sweet sticky rice. 

Tiger Kingdom – Phuket, Thailand  Once in a lifetime experience!! This was by far one of the best experiences on my trip. For approximately $60 USD you can have an up-close experience with Tigers of all sizes and ages. The younger tigers were sedated due to their unpredictability and the older tigers were very well trained. They have photographers available for an additional fee, approximately $20 USD. https://www.tigerkingdom.com/phuket

Scuba Diving in Phi Phi Islands – Have a adventurous side? Try Scuba Diving in Phi Phi! The instructors were very nice and made sure you were comfortable the entire time. We paid approximately $45 USD to Scuba Dive for an hour. I mean look at the scenery, who wouldn’t want to?

FYI Snorkeling Equipment is very heavy!

Khai Nai Island– There are excursions that offer an Island tour. The tour consists of Phi Phi, Monkey Beach, and Khai Mai. We stopped for a swim in crystal clear waters in the middle of the ocean, snorkeled, or just floated in complete bliss.

Complete Bliss.

Unicorn Cafe-  A restaurant that is all things Unicorn? Sign me up! Unicorn cafe is a quaint cafe, located only in Bangkok, that serves all their food with a unicorn theme and a SUGAR OVERLOAD! Although it is small it leaves a BIG impression with the great customer service, fun atmosphere, and side of nostalgia.

    Temples – The country has some of the most impressive temples in the world. An entire day if needed to see them all and fully enjoy. If you are interested in learning about different religions, this is a must see place for you. Due to the history and significance to their culture, I refrained from taking pictures as a personal choice.

    Patong Nightlife –  Patong was different from what I expected. There was numerous bars, massage parlors, blowjob bars, and LADY MEN. Lol! Before visiting Thailand, I kept being warned to watch out the Lady Men. If I am honest, Thailand had some of the most beautiful trans women I have ever seen. Sex is heavily solicited and these Lady Men are waiting at every corner to fulfill whatever desires men tourist have.

    If you are thinking about visiting Thailand, just do it! If you have a trip planned, I am so jealous of you. There are so many interesting places to see and things to do. Immerse yourself in the culture, buy the excursions, see the temples, eat the food, make friends with the locals… don’t cheat yourself out of the experience!