24 HOURS IN KUALA LUMPUR

Just like the majority of expats here in Bali, my 60-day visa was about to expire – which left me wondering “where the heck I am going to make my visa run?!”  When you arrive in Bali, the maximum amount of time you can stay in the country is 30 days, unless you pay $35 upon arrival (plus an extra $40 to an agent afterwards) to extend an additional 30 days.

Since I have taken on the digital nomad way of life here in Ubud, I have decided to opt for the latter option.  I will admit, not only is an extended visa a great idea if you plan on living in Bali longer than one month, but you can skip the long customs line when you land.  (Yes, you bypass the “normal” line and go through a different immigration queue!)

With only two days until I had to leave the country, I decided to head to Malaysia for a quick visit.  On my first visa run I traveled to Singapore and fell in love with the city.  Singapore was futuristic, clean, + jammed packed with culture.  While I plan on revisiting Singapore, there was something about Malaysia that intrigued me.  Malaysia is a place I’d never thought I’d visit, but now, a new gem to discover.  With only 48 hours to go, I booked my plane tickets to Kuala Lumpur!

Below is my itinerary for exploring the city in a day!  It can be done…

Hotel: If you have an AMEX credit card, I highly recommend signing up for the Starwood points option.  Like Sky Miles, you obtain points as you use your card, which will help you score some free SPG rooms in some of the nicest hotels.  Since I rarely use my points (I normally opt for hostels or guest houses when traveling), I decided this was the best way to go in KL.  I wound up booking the Element Hotel owned by the Westin.  For only 7,000 points/night, and centrally located, it was quite the steal!

Normal hotel cost: Element Kuala Lumpur

I absolutely loved this hotel.  Check in was on the 38th floor of the building, surrounded by floor to ceiling windows.  My room was HUGE – big comfy bed, high quality amenities, + fantastic views.  Since I arrived late, I was ready for a good night’s rest.

 I woke up early the next morning for a work-call (US time) and then made my way to the gym.  Similar to the reception and my room, the gym was very clean and spacious, not to mention the gym had floor to ceiling windows (which made running on the treadmill a little less painful!)

Afterwards -- breakfast time!  Another perk to being a Starwood Member is free access to the buffet breakfast (which did not disappoint!)  From fresh squeezed juices, to custom made omelets, I was in heaven.  The service was also impeccable.  This was a nice treat since I had some work to do in the morning.  I was able to find a cozy seat near the window with a bird’s eye view of the city – working digital nomad style, latte in hand!

Batu Caves

I only had a half day to explore, so my first stop was the Batu Caves.  From my hotel, the ride was about 35-40 minutes and was easily set up with the concierge.  Upon arrival, the steps and surroundings were so colorful and inviting -- A photog’s playground!  

Know Now: 

·      There is no cost to enter the caves

·      A simple 272 steps brings you to the Batu Cave entrance

·      The interior was filled with limestone formations said to be 400 million years old

·      Your legs must be covered - for around 50 cents you can rent a sarong to wrap around your waist

·      There are private tours that last around 45 minutes (I opted to walk around solo)

·      It becomes quite hot, especially walking up the steps, so try to visit in the morning

·      A bit touristy but worth it!

Chinatown

After my visit to the Batu Caves, my driver took me on a quick visit to Chinatown.  Honestly, I wish I had more time to spend here!  Chinatown was filled with bustling tourists, designer knock-offs for bargain deals + authentic street food.

Know Now:

·      Petaling Street Market: Known for clothes and accessories, there are a TON of knock-off stands, but you must visit in the morning or around lunch because they close down shop around 3pm.

·      You can find local artists selling paintings and crafts at the Central Market

·      The street food is yummy!  Chinatown is known for its noodles + curry dishes

·      There is an array of ornate temples nearby, with different carvings of Hindu deities 

Petronas Twin Towers

After a quick rest from my afternoon touring, I made my way to the #1 tourist destination – The Petronas Twin Towers.  This was a quick 15-minute walk from my hotel.

Know Now:

·      A must for pictures!

·      The Petronas towers are the tallest twin towers in the world

·      Make sure to go at night for the best picture quality

·      45-minute tours are available, which takes you to the Skybridge on the 41st floor and observation deck on the 86th floor (sold in advance online)

Roof-Top Bar

After visiting the towers, I was quite exhausted from the day but decided to hit up one more spot.  I decided to check out a roof-top bar close by called Heli Lounge Bar

Know Now:

·      The restaurant/bar is fully functional helipad during the day, turned restaurant/bar at night

·      The roof setting gives you a 360-degree view of Kuala Lumpur’s iconic skyline

·      I recommend going to watch the sunset!

·      The retro décor is made from old airplane parts

There you have it – Kuala Lumpur in a day!  While Singapore still won me over as a visa run fav, Malaysia is definitely a country I recommend exploring!

Have more time?  Three additional KL attractions to add to your itinerary!

·      KL Bird Park

·      KL Tower

·      Fountain Show at Lake Symphony

REAL LIFE DEVASTATION

Visiting Lombok – Real Life Devastation

On Monday, August 13th 2018, I flew to Lombok, Indonesia, a small island that was struck by a giant 7.0 earthquake the week prior.  I am not sure why, but something inside of me told me I absolutely had to fly to this island to see in person what was really happening.

I will back up.  A week prior, I was out to eat with a friend when the earthquake struck.  When it hit in Lombok, we immediately felt the intense rumbling in Bali.  In fact, it was so strong here that everyone started screaming and running outside into the street.  It was quite chaotic to say the least.

Flash forward to the aftermath.  As each day since the quake passed, more news about the casualties and number of people homeless started to rise at a rapid rate.  On social media, groups began forming to help with the disaster relief aid, and pictures started to go viral from survivors.  During this time, I got connected with two families in particular whom have lost everything.  They shared their stories with me and sent me pictures of the reality of the situation.  Throughout the rest of the week, I felt more and more compelled to visit the victims, and soon made the decision to go.

After I settled on my decision (but was quite nervous to say the least), everything completely fell into place for me to visit Lombok.  I received a free ride to and from the airport, had transportation in Lombok, my flight was covered, and I was not charged for my over-weight luggage, filled completely with donations.  I was also in contact with people whom have donated supplies and money.  I was meant to go.

Upon arrival, a dive instructor, Hifan, and his friend picked me up.  Both men had lost their entire homes.  The two had grown up together in Lombok, and they were a few of the lucky ones not injured when the disaster hit.  Prior to the quake, Hifan was a snorkel instructor on the beautiful Gili islands.  Hifan is the father of two beautiful girls and has a lovely wife, all of whom I had the privilege of meeting.   

I later found out that Hifan drove over two hours to pick me up, and we drove another two back to where his family was currently residing.  The drive was beyond heartbreaking.  As we made our way further and further away from the airport, the destruction and poverty got worse.  Homes, buildings, stores were completely crumbled to the ground.  People were laying under makeshift tarp tents, and dust filled the streets.  It was quite a devastating sight.

Our first stop was to see Hifan’s family.  They were lovely!  And to my amazement, despite losing everything, they were in good spirits.  They even offered me food (which of course I declined).  I was in true amazement of the human spirit during the worst of conditions.

After handing out some supplies to Hifan’s wife, we picked up another westerner (Daniel from the UK) and made a trek into the jungle to see one of the camps.  Now I must say, Daniel is a true angel.  He had been in Lombok for three days, spending time with the families on the camp site.  His spirit and energy were helping heal those around him.

As we drove deeper into the jungle, I was in awe on how beautiful and lush the island of Lombok is.  The water is crystal clear, there are palm trees galore, and the most breathtaking waterfalls filled the land.  It felt quite ironic during such a time of devastation. 

When we made our way into the villages, I was heartbroken.  Every single home and building had collapsed to the ground.  This included: schools, churches, mosques, hospitals, and stores.  Everything was demolished.  It was a hard (but necessary) sight to see.  People were living in little tents, and there was a group of children in “school” learning under a tarp.  Food and blankets were scarce.  While I provided some donations to the group, I felt so small.  How can I help make more of an impact?  How can I create more awareness?  It really was a tough day.

As I made my way back to the airport, I had so much on my mind. At this moment, a wave of emotion rushed over me, this is when my day in Lombok really hit me.  It was a lot to take it.  I have to do SOMETHING, I just didn’t know what. I decided to start small and do what I know how to do – throw events and bring awareness.

With that being said, I will definitely go back, but I cannot do this alone.  If we all work together, no matter how big or small, we can help make a difference. 

I am selling T-shirts where proceeds go towards the families in Lombok.  I am also accepting donations to buy supplies and food for those in need.  I am working hand in hand with some awesome people here in Bali to create a charity event, which will be posted on my site shortly.

But for now, if you wish to make a small donation, please find the GoFundMe link HERE, as well as a LINK to my shirts.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to learn more about the quake, and/or how you can help in general.

Thank you for your support! <3

I just loved these kids!  Where there is darkness, there is always light.

TRAVELING V. LIVING ABROAD

Whether you are digital nomad or working a 9-5 job, living in a foreign country is a completely different experience than taking a quick holiday.  Upon arrival, a giant self-realization seems to hit you — “wow, this is my new HOME” — no more comforts or familiarities you once took for granted.  Depending on where you relocate to, this can consist of different foods, activities, customs, languages, and/or social norms.  I strongly feel that when we travel, we become the outsider looking in. We take in new experiences + cultures, embracing the people we meet, but maybe not staying long enough to FULLY absorb ourselves in it.  For me, time-constraint traveling is about quick relationships, trying the best restaurants, and dancing into the wee hours of the night on a Monday (if you are like me and love to dance!)  But what does living abroad for an extending period of time (at least three months) REALLY feel like?  Let me explain.

Back in 2017 when I decided to travel for a month through South America, my trip was based on sight-seeing, over night buses, new foods, trying the best local cocktails, and living on pure adrenaline.  I had an absolute BLAST — probably one of the most impactful moments of my life.  Traveling really does open your eyes to living life through a different lens.  When connecting with others from other countries, the knowledge and conversations you exchange is beyond priceless, not to mention getting to know a foreign place with other travelers.  I cannot stress how visiting “different” places than what you are used to is beyond impactful.  And 9 times out of 10, you catch the travel bug and cannot wait to plan your next trip!  However, for me personally, when I made the decision to live abroad in Chile (and now Bali!) my journey started out quite differently than my whirlwind, adventurous month exploring four countries.

At first, moving to Santiago, Chile was tough.  I knew only one person, I had a new “home” that was different than my one bedroom apartment in LA, and I did not know ANY Spanish.  It was quite a learning experience to navigate around a brand new city, look for work, and adapt to a different way of life.  Living in Chile was more slow than my last traveling experience, and I had to get used to a foreign place actually being my home.  I was not in a hostel situation with other remote travelers, and if I wanted to meet people I had to make an effort to put myself out there.  

I am not going to lie, I felt a bit lonely the first week or two.  While my new room mate was nice (we are now very good friends), I still felt a bit out of place.  An American girl living in Santiago — never thought I’d say that!  But I was anxious to make Chile my new home. 

New to the Language? Enroll in a school or find a tutor!

Since my level of Spanish at the time was zero, I enrolled in a four week intensive Spanish school.  This was one of the best decisions I’ve made in Chile.  Immediately, I was with other people who were both new to the city and trying to learn the language, and also with Chileans who were teaching me how to speak!  The school provided fun, cultural events and getaways for us, and I was able to connect with both expats and Chileans. (I studied at ECELA Santiago - highly recommended!)

Work Cafes + Co-working Spaces

 Also during my first month, I got hired to work with a start-up company through Start Up Chile.  This opportunity was a life saver for me.  For those who are digital nomads who are looking to move, I highly recommend joining a co-working space.  The co-working spaces give you a sense of a work environment, while connecting you to like-minded people.  There are many perks to co-working such as meet-ups, workshops, and weekend excursions.  If co-working spaces are not available to you or out of your price range, check out some FB groups or local cafes that are known for co-working.  This is a great way to see more of the city while working hand in hand with others.  Now, in select countries, there are co-living situations.  Two popular companies being: Roam and Outsite.

The Power of Facebook Groups

Another HUGE tool for living the expat life is Facebook.  I cannot stress enough how important Facebook is for those both traveling and moving to a new country.  There are some fantastic FB groups where you can find any information you might desire about the particular place you are living in.  One group that has greatly helped me is Discover Chile.  These FB groups are quite easy to find — just through one simple search.

Explore Your New Home

While I was in Santiago, I was fortunate enough to explore Chile.  By seeing other parts of this magical country, it brought back my sense of travel and wanderlust. I feel very thankful for the opportunities presented to me while living abroad.  I was lucky to travel with some new friends I had met, both expats and locals.  There are ways to travel around inexpensively and easily — hostels, buses, shared rides, and advice from your local friends (to name a few).

Make Friends with the Locals

While it is comforting to hang out with other expats, make an effort to connect with the locals, wherever you are!  I have learned SO much from my Chilean friends - and realized how much we actually all have in common.  Yes, while the language barrier is apparent at times, this obstacle just pushes you more to learn the local language and connect on a deeper level.  Force yourself out of your comfort zone and into a new culture!  My Chilean friends have taught me so much.  I have also greatly improved my Spanish through my friends.

Join Meet Up Groups

Join a group!  After a few months getting settled into my new Santiago home, I joined a workout group to meet more people and adapt a consistent work out routine.  Here is when my friend group expanded (and helped me learn more Spanish!)  My class was only in Spanish, and I became very close with both my trainer and others in the class.  

There were also some great events every week in Santiago — such as language exchanges, stand up comedy shows, and an improv group.  By putting yourself out there, you will not only become involved with the community, but meet people with similar interests.

After a few months, Chile was more than a place to live but my new home.  By experiencing some hard times and set backs, I had the chance to change and grow.  I also have had some of the BEST experiences in Chile, and my time there is so dear to my heart.  I truly feel as if I am a different person for the better.  

I am also fortunate enough to say that my friends are from all over the world — Chile, Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Australia, London, Sweden, Mexico (to name a few). I simply could not imagine my life without my group. 

So if you are looking to move to a new country, and this is your first time doing so, be prepared for CHANGE and embrace all the emotions that come with it.  I am currently in Bali for a few months going through the new transition myself, with flashbacks of my month in Chile.  Please be patient and easy on yourself.  Living a life in a new country is the most rewarding experience you can embark on, but know that it can take some time.  Practice grounding techniques and journal — more tools that have helped me feel more at home!  Allow yourself to receive and be open to ANYTHING.  You will be astonished at what the universe brings to you. <3

¡SALUD!