inside the black folder

What Not to Leave on a Train

This is the story of one of my worst rookie mistakes. Just yesterday, I set off in the morning (yes, I actually left the apartment) to visit the Russian Consulate in Sydney. With only a month to go before I hit the road for 3.5 months, I need to get this visa process going… and fast.

By on March 8, 2012 in Australia, Russia
March 8, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 47 }
the bed

Sydney Sleeps: The Cambridge Hotel in Surry Hills

I get emails all the time from people asking me where to stay in Sydney, so I think today’s post is going to kick off a new regular feature called “Sydney Sleeps”. First up: a review of the Cambridge Hotel in Surry Hills — a mix between young and old in a very convenient location.

By on March 6, 2012 in Australia, Hostels & Hotels
March 6, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 2 }

If I Can Travel the World, Anyone Can

Just a little bit of inspiration I whipped up for the day. If you’re feeling like you are someone who could never do what I do… think again! Here are the facts that should shine the light on possibility.

By on March 1, 2012 in Random
March 1, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 10 }
round of absinthe

The February Express 2012

February has been another great month for BvtW, and the February Express 2012 will get you up to speed very quickly! Check inside to get bits and pieces from this blog, other blogs and social media.

By on February 29, 2012 in Random, Writing
February 29, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 2 }
chicken laksa

Your Passport to a New Career: The World Nomads Travel Writing Scholarship

What do you get when you mix Rough Guides, World Nomads, Travelfish and a Malaysian food tour? You get the WorldNomads Travel Writing Scholarship for 2012, and this one is not only a brilliant way to get your foot in the door of a travel writing career, but also a mind-blowing escape to three of Southeast Asia’s best: Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia.

By on February 28, 2012 in Contests, Writing
February 28, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 3 }
plane seat

How I Scored 2 Peak-season International Tickets for $300: Part 2 – Reward Burn

Now for part 2 of how Cheryl got an amazing flight deal using miles: two international round-trip tickets with a stopover during high season for just $300.

By on February 23, 2012 in Thrifty Travel
February 23, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 0 }
Celebrating the 4th of July

The Two Faces of Brooke

I will always be American no matter where I am in the world. But, after 3 years in Australia, and 3 years of being with an Aussie guy, I don’t really flinch when people ask me, “How ya going?” I’m in a weird place, and that’s kind of what I wanted to portray in the LAST ROUND of the Canon Island Blogger Competition.

By on February 22, 2012 in Australia, Contests
February 22, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 23 }
gold coast boat ride

I Want to Travel But Can’t Find a Travel Partner (aka Solo Travel Anxiety)

Not everyone has the same travel dreams that I do, so finding a friend that wants to do the exact thing is just not a possibility. Instead of sitting at home and thinking that I’ll never be able to travel because I can’t get so-and-so to do it, too, I simply decided to fulfill my dreams and set off on the solo road.

By on February 20, 2012 in Female Travel, Health & Safety
February 20, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 18 }
rack up miles

How I Scored 2 Peak-season International Tickets for $300: Part 1 – Air Loyalty Programs & Earning

Are air loyalty programs a bit of a mystery to you? If so, read this post where Cheryl gives the low-down on choosing the right program and earning those rewards.

By on February 16, 2012 in Thrifty Travel
February 16, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 8 }
clock

Anxiety Towards Flying: You’re Not Alone

There are a surprising number of people in my life that have trouble flying because of anxiety — or won’t even fly at all. This post shares some personal stories of those who have been able to fly regardless of their fears and anxiety. Have a read for some inspiration.

By on February 13, 2012 in Health & Safety
February 13, 2012 · Read full story · Comments { 14 }