What was your favorite destination and why?Istanbul, Turkey – I love the people. They treated my family and I so well. I love the Turkish kitchen (that means cuisine). I learned and experienced Biblical history. My middle daughter was born in there. It was such a spiritual and mystical experience.

Where have you traveled Internationally? If you describe that location in a single word or phrase, what would it be?

• Paris, France – Romantic, I met and fell in love with my ex-husband
• Brussels, Belgium – As an Au Pair learned how the wealthy live
• Cumana, Venezuela – Carnivale, continuous party
• Bahia Blanca, Argentina – European culture with great shopping
• Istanbul, Turkey – Endearing, became an ex-patriot

What are the Top 3 destinations on your Bucket List?

Durban, South Africa

Beijing, China

Queensland, Austrailia

Has any trip changed the way you think or act – whether politically, socially or otherwise?My experience living in Istanbul, Turkey for two years. I learned to understand the Muslim culture.

Have you ever experienced a problem when traveling (passport, victim of crime, etc.)?No, I have been blessed.

What’s the strangest thing you’ve eaten when traveling?My palate is very diverse. I try to stay away from insects, anything else I will try once.

What was your least favorite travel experience and why?I experienced loneliness living in other countries sometimes when my ex-husband traveled on the road to basketball games.

What kind of vacation do you prefer, adventure, nature, backpacking, luxury getaways, shopping, relaxing,  other?I prefer luxury getaways, shopping, relaxing, and living overseas as a local.

What’s the best thing about traveling?  What’s the Worst?

• Best – The best thing is the ability to meet and learn about other people. I learn about new places to visit.
• Worst – Being unable to share the experience with someone after the trip.

When you’ve traveled internationally, did you prefer to do things that are familiar (American food/activities) or go outside of the tourists areas and see how the natives live?I prefer to go outside of the tourist areas. I enjoy living in other countries as a native.

Do you look for Americans when you travel? Also, do you try to ‘blend in’ or don’t think about it.I don’t look for Americans when I travel. I am there to experience a different culture.

Do you have any travel tips to share?I suggest reading or learning something about the people, language and culture before you go. You get what you expect, so expect a positive experience. Be humble. The American way of life is not necessarily the best way to live.

Any parting shots or Shout outs?Shout out to Munson Steed of Rolling Out Magazine who inspired me to be come a travel blogger and videographer.