My dad sent me this and I had to repost it. I’ve never seen some of these locations…but I feel that I HAVE to travel to some of the places now! Time to add to the ‘ole bucket list!

The world’s highest chained carousel, located in Vienna, at a height of 117 meters.

Thor’s Well a/k/a “the gates of the dungeon” on Cape Perpetua, Oregon. At moderate tide and strong surf, flowing water creates a fantastic landscape

Emerald Lake in the crater of an extinct volcano. Tongariro National Park – NewZealand

Restaurant on a cliff on the east coast of Zanzibar. Depending on the tide the restaurant can be reached both on foot and by boat.

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I can’t believe I’ll be leaving San Diego tomorrow. It has been my home since I moved out here to attend San Diego State University. I’ve lived in this wonderful city for about 8 years now and have loved every moment of it. I’m not sure what is in store for me moving forward; however, I trust that it will all be for the best. I’m excited. One of my favorite quotes from Mark Twain really stuck with me:

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

I’m very sad to leave all the wonderful people I’ve met from my 8 years in San Diego. It’s one of those moments in time that you will cherish forever. There have been so many people in my life that have influence me and helped me grow into the person I am today. Im truly honored to have been part of their lives.

Unfortunately, I’ll be moving back home for a couple months until I make a move to Europe. I’m hoping to be out there for awhile. The main determining factor for me is how I plan on building a sustainable lifestyle.

Although the move to Europe may seem random, I have a clear goal in mind. I want to understand different cultures for my own personal and professional growth.

I’m really excited for the next chapter in my life. This is one of those moments where you could actually put a bookmark and close out a chapter. It’s a very clear change in the lifestyle I was living for the past couple years. It hasn’t quite hit me yet, but I’m always looking forward to learning something new and taking on adventure. Again, I’m a true gemini at heart. Ever since I was a child, I always kept looking for new adventures or hobbies. I’m an explorer of new interests and want to experience all that life has to offer.

To all those who have been a part of my life so far. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. So many memories and experiences to remember. They are the kinds of memories that are priceless and worth more than anything else in the world. So thank you and I look forward to many more years of our friendship.

Until then…It’s off to the next adventure. Here is what I hope is in store (slowly adding to this list): Continue Reading →

“To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.” – Bill Bryson

Ever since I studied abroad in Paris, France for a month, I knew I had the travel bug. There is something so rewarding and fulfilling about going to a new place where you don’t know anyone. Through traveling, you learn about yourself. You must learn to become more patient, more courageous and more open-minded. You must learn to use what little you have. It’s amazing.

As I look forward, I know I’d still like to do more traveling. I’d like to live in Paris, France for at least 6 months in hopes to tackle one of my bucket list items and life dreams (to live in France and become fluent in French). Below are  a couple things I’d still like to do. What is on your list?

1) Visit Beelitz in Germany and see the abandoned hospital, Beelitz Heilstätten. (view more photos)

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So I told myself I’d write and keep track of my travels. Although it might seem very ranty and pointless, I’m sure I’m going to want to read this in the future. You hear that Future Ryan? ENJOY THIS!

I got all my stuff packed and I’m sure I’m probably forgetting something. I hate that feeling! Well not sure what else to say other than I better stop blogging and get back to getting ready for this trip!

UPDATE: I ended up throwing half the stuff I packed in my bag in the trunk as I felt I overpacked. In hindsight I could’ve used some of it, but I definitely could and did get away with living without it. Moral is, pack well, take half.

Date: 7/10/11