It's been a while since I blogged...for the better part of the past 2 months, I've been fortunate enough to travel around a bit.  When I came back in mid-December, I promptly got one of those rough colds going around.  It was my first Christmas holiday where I was completely knackered out enough to not leave the house.  From what I've been seeing on Facebook, it doesn't seem like I've been the only one.  But, it's now 2013...onward & upward!

Since it is January, a lot of people are mentally mapping out how they'd like their 2013 to sort out.  If traveling abroad happens to be on your wishlist this year, I would like to offer a few suggestions:

Europe:
In November, I was in Switzerland, France, & Germany.  With everything going on, Europe could be a better travel bargain this year than it has been in the past.    I highly recommend Switzerland for its chocolate, wine, sights & sounds, as well as it's absolute fastidiousness - it's orderly, quiet, & clean - which makes for an easy vacation.  However, keep in mind, it's not on the Euro so it may be a bit harder on your purse than other places in Europe.  France, on the other hand, is on the Euro and it seems to be on most wishlists.  Paris & Cote d'Azur are wonderful for sure. I highly recommend Strasbourg though - a 2.5 hour TGV trip from Paris.  Since it's in Alsace, it has a completely different French identity because of its history.  While it doesn't have the buzz of a major city, it's completely cosmopolitan and the food is wonderful (go for tarte flambee with glass of Gerwurztraminer).  Keep in mind, much like Boston, it's not a late town...but not necessarily an early one either!

Argentina
If Paris is a romantic city, Buenos Aires is a horny city. Everywhere you go, people are holding hands; kissing on park benches; and publicly displaying all sort of open affection.  When we were riding the subway, Phil patted my behind as I getting off the train & a guy standing near us gave him thumbs up as we walked out.  It's just that kind of city!  Portenos (as the locals are called) are not just passionate about themselves but also books, music, art, and any other kind of culture.  There are as many book kiosks on the street as food carts.  It's wonderful.  Much like Europe, the cafe culture is alive & well.  It's "de rigeur" to while away your afternoon, watching people walk by while sipping your coffee and eating your alfajore.  It's so laid back - and the best part - it's an absolute bargain.  BA is one of the more European cities I've been in outside of Europe.  While I wouldn't say you feel like you're in Paris, it's a good European style vacation on a fraction of the budget.

Antarctica
What can I say?  It's remote.  You spend 2 days crossing the Drake Passage getting there.  It's mindblowing.  Worth every penny & every bit of energy used to get there.  It's almost too big for me to process. I can't stop thinking about it - the black & white lanscape, the crazy blue icebergs, the penguins!  THE PENGUINS!!! A penguin stepped on my foot.  He did not say "excuse me" and he was very heavy.  It was awesome both literally & metaphorically.  Words don't do it justice.  Even the photos don't do it justice but I will post some on my Facebook page anyway.

Other Tips
- Airline Tickets: Like most things, you get what you pay for. If you bargain shop, you could be paying for your ticket in long layovers & lack of cabin amenities. If you with a more expensive or foreign carrier, you may pay a little more but get better service & amenities in economy class and a better layover time...it's always good to weigh out your options. A lot of times you can upgrade to premium economy or business class at the counter for a fee when you check in. It never hurts to ask!

- Airline clubs: Most clubs offer a day pass for a small fee.  Spending a 6 hour layover in a comfy chair in a quiet room with free snacks can often be worth the price - just for your sanity.

Happy 2013 & safe, fun travels!