Pro Traveller, Packing Amateur

Ok, it is confession time. 

For a well-seasoned traveller, I really should have my packing skills down. I am used to living out of a suitcase for months on end, have had to pack up my life and move to another country multiple times and should really be able to pack like a pro. But that is just not the case.

I am always very impressed by my fellow travelers who can pack light. And quickly. 

I am never more of a stereotypical girl than when it comes to packing. I seem to become excessively indecisive and just want to get everything in there. Even things that, logically, I know I will never use. But then again, if I don’t pack that pair of wellies… You just know I will be stranded out somewhere remote in a thunder storm and be kicking myself for my lack of appropriate footwear. Even if I am only going on a summer holiday to Spain.

Much like the rest of the world, airline weight limits are the bane of my life. Having worked in travel, I know my weight restrictions like the back of my hand and as such have my favored airlines. But some routes have been monopolized by low budget airlines that charge you stunningly high amounts for the right to 15 kg of luggage. I always feel like I am living life a little on the edge when I rock up to the airport with a 15.1 kg bag. And outraged when the airlines’ scales and mine have a difference of 0.3kg or so, pushing my weight up to 15.4kg. Phew, they have let me off with no extra charge. 

So lists are my solution to packing these days. So far, I am not doing too badly and things are slightly less chaotic! But what are your top packing tips? Do you have a similar problem or are you a more skilled packer? 

Missing the Spanish Coast

Now don't get me wrong, I love NYC and I love the city. But some days I miss the sea and I miss the spanish coast. 

Looking through my photos I came across a few that sum up the mountains and unspoiled shores of San Sebastian. 

Only two more months until I'm back to the rugged Northern Spanish coastline- its lush valleys and mountainous interior!

Brunch in TriBeCa

There is nothing quite so "New York" as a good brunch. So I felt it was pretty shameful that 3 months into my time NYC I still had not tried this late breakfast, early lunch. This weekend I decided it was time to get rid of my guilty conscience and hit the brunch scene.

It can be hard to narrow down where to go given the huge choice of restaurants offering brunch, from Mediterranean to Mexican, Danish to Vietnamese. I was in the mood for a traditional American Brunch and stumbled across Bubby's in Tribeca.

Let me start by saying, I have a feeling that I am going to be a regular here. 

Fantastic comfort food, great service and a buzzing, busy atmosphere. You cannot reserve for brunch but although the place was packed we were seated within minutes.

 Everything was incredibly fresh and ridiculously tasty. Bubby's prides itself on locally sourced, organic food made from scratch. Portions are big, so do make sure you're hungry.