March 15th, 2013

The last day I was at the orphanage I took the little ones to church. Its a christian orphanage so they go to church every weekend. There church is 5 min walking distance in there school auditorium. You would think the kids would be restless and bored, but there were very attentive and look forward to going to church every weekend.

After church was over I gathered the children in the playroom to distribute all tey toys, gifts, and clothing I received from the fundraiser. With the help of the manager Martha, we called each individual child at a time to give them there surprising treat. They were all delighted with there pressies. It was like Christmas for them.

                                                  Then it was time to say goodbye 🙁

Overall my stay at the orphanage was life changing. I didn’t want to leave the children. I love and adore them all very much. Im already planning my next visit very soon.

Mission in Action orphanage is an organization founded by a lovely couple – Mary and Ivan Budilica, who sold there house in Australia to build this orphanage from the ground up. They rely on funds from others for there existence. They sincerely appreciate any help that they can get.

There biggest need is obviously money, but spending time with the children at the orphanage is a price less experience for the children. They are filled with so much joy. They love visitors and volunteers, and to have some one extra to play with or help them with there homework is exciting and comforting for them.

A wonderful way to support this orphanage is by exploring there website – www.missioninaction.org- and sponsoring a child. Each child has 4 sponsors which pays for everything they need each month. Its a great way to build a relationship with the children there. The orphanage chooses a child for you, however most pple like to visit the orphanage first. Naturally you will bond with other infants over others. You then can sponsor which child you are led too.

I honestly wanted to sponsor every child when I was there. When you go to visit and see the needs of the orphanage, you cant help but want to sponsor a child.. or two.

March 15th, 2013

This past spring I had the chance to vacation in Bali. Words really can not express how great I feel about this place. I stayed in Ubud which is actually like a huge rain forest. When you think Bali, most people think beach. Yes, there are beautiful beaches but far out from the city. Inside the city is where all the culture lives. Families are very close knit to each other and they always make sure everyone is content. The resort I am staying at is beautiful. It was my first time staying in a water bungalow. Upon arriving, I had my entire itinerary for the week hand printed and delivered by the staff. I honesty didn’t have to think about a thing. I did a mind, body, and spirit rejuvenation while I was there. Bali is huge for relaxation and rejuvenation, so why not get with the program and do a mini health retreat. My stay included sensational spa treatments, the most natural and healthy mediterranean foods, hands on cultural experiences, and unique encounters with nature.

Along Ubud street, there are shops everywhere.  Every shop seemed to be calling my name. Literally. Its a big hustle amongst the fashion shops here, and its all about bargaining. But don’t start bargaining without any intentions to buy- thats an insult. I purchased 3 beautiful sundresses while I was there. She started off with 280,000 rph and I brought her down to 120,000 rph which is equivalent to $15. Yes things are very cheap here.

Getting around is extremely easy. You definitely will not have a problem with that. Most of the locals have scooters and also ride in cars, and as a visitor you can find a taxi anywhere. On every corner there is a taxi driver. Everywhere you go they ask if you need a taxi. No? Maybe tomorrow? How about next week? They are really persistent. But friendly about it. They have signs that actually read Taxi Please! Then if you say no they flip it over and it says maybe tomorrow? Too funny.

While I was there I hiked up an active volcano – Mt. Batu. I was picked up at 3am. It was about a 30 minute drive to the volcano site. Before heading up to the mountain we got our flashlight, walking stick, gloves, and helmet with light. It was pitch dark. There were about 50 of us together all broken into small groups. The hike was actually more difficult than I thought. Its not a straight up and down smooth walk. There are turns bumps, zigzag, rocks, and it was slippery because of the mist. It took us about 2 hrs to reach the top.

Once we reached the top we waited in a small house before the sun rose. It was very chilly up there. Freezing actually. The view from the top was insane. Once the sun rose we could see the entire view..mountains, palm trees, forests, lakes, the geography was unreal. The best way to describe it was like a painting. More like a postcard. Picture perfect, I wouldn’t mind camping up there for a week. We had a chance to go to the equator and feel and see the steam from the volcano. It was quite special.

The way down the volcano was much quicker, but it was quite slippery. I was sliding around a few times. It was pitch dark going up, but during the descent I could see the entire Island. It really was breathtaking, like I was in a different world. We were walking on ash. I still cant believe I walked up an active volcano. The last big eruption was in 2000. But they do have very small eruptions of fire and lava ever now and then. Mt. Batu is definitely a must if you are in Bali. There were people hiking up there from 12-50 years old. Anyone can do it. The closest thing to hiking that I have done was up stone mountain in atlanta. Now this is a real hiker its 1,400km. I think it was good that we did it in the dark because if it was light outside before my ascent I think I would have had second thoughts about hiking up that volcano.

You can not leave Bali without getting a spa treatment. The massages here are out of this world. I have paid 3x as much in the US and not have recieved even close to the quality or detailed treatment of the massages that they give you here. After returning from Mt. Batu I took a mailer scrub and massage. It was much needed after my hike. There are 4 different oils you could choose from. I chose refreshing. Next you choose the scrub, I chose bali Scrub. The mailer scrub was extremely refreshing and got rid of my aches from the hike. The masseuse starts off with the oils, followed by the scrub, then covers your body with a milk mask. After this, you relax in a soothing flower bath. From this point you go to the steam room, then relax in the jacuzzi.

I was there for there Nippier, which is there Balinese New Year. On Niper day (also known as quite day) everything is closed, from shops, the airport, no cars, lights, tv, or computers. Legend says that on Niper day, the evil demons come to Bali. Therefore, in preparation the day before, they have a huge parade showcasing the creatures that were made to scare away the demons. I was told one year George Bush was one of the epiphns they made. Hilarious.

All Balinese citizens from adolescent to adults participated in the parade. The younger children have smaller floats, while the older people have huge floats. When they carry around the creature during the parade they make 3 turns around to confuse the evil spirits. The reason why they do not leave there home on Niper day is so the evil demons will not find them out. The reason why the airport is closed that day is because they believe the demons will travel on the plane, spreading to the rest of the world. No one and I mean no can leave the island. I haven’t heard of anything like that except from the movie Treasure Island. Bali is the only place in the world who has this type of holiday. Airports closed, no cars on the streets, all you hear are the birds chirping. This day the balinese spend time with there family. The day before they prepare food that will last them through the day so they wont go out.

One of my favorite activities here was going to monkey forest. I couldn’t wait to go to the monkey forest. I love animals, so anything involving them I get very excited. I bought some small bananas for my friends as well. When I entered there were monkeys everywhere! I mean completely wondering around doing there own thing. You being there didn’t change the way they were, it was as if the monkeys were in a huge fishbowl and we got to see the way they live.

There  were big monkeys, small monkeys, overweight monkeys, and newborn baby monkeys. I got to feed a lot of them and boy did they love my snacks. They even eat bread too. When they see a banana they get so overjoyed, some monkeys even fought over it. They can smell the banana in my bag and some where trying to bite the bottom of my bag to get the banana, and some were attempting to put there hand in! One found a bottle of water opened the cap and started drinking it! Another monkey jumped on my shoulder took off my earring it wouldn’t give it back until i gave him a banana. they are such smart little things. I also tried to give a monkey a banana peel, i put it on the ground, he looked at me then stuck his tongue out. He knew there was nothing in there and was upset that I was teasing him. I couldn’t get over that. lol.

After the monkey forest I did a little more shopping. A local Balinese rode me around on his scooter. It was so much fun. I felt so free riding along the streets of Bali. I think I was born in the wrong country. I’m a Bali girl!

One evening I went to a Balinese dance show. Quite frankly, I thought it was horrible but at the same time, some parts were very interesting. If you make a trip out here its not a must see, but just an experience you can take part in. Im glad I went, just something I wouldn’t go twice for.

Balinese dancers use a lot of head and hand movements. The show tells a story. Upon arrival you are given a sheet of paper with the story. If you don’t read it before, then the show will be very hard to follow. The Balinese dance show is held every night in one of there temples and it was about 250 people there. There are no incline to the seats, so you must sit in the front to get a good view because if not its almost like you have to stand up to be able to see everything.

The show begins with a Balinese man make a loud bong on hisinstrument. There is an orchestra of that plays there instruments on the side and a singer who sings on the other. The music, if I can call it that, has no harmony too it. It sounds like people banging on the instruments as they please. The costumes were very dramatic and some chaotic with a lot of things going on. I guess it just went with the music. It was interesting to see the costumes and the characters. One of the characters pulled out a small girl from the audience to volunteer. He then showed her dance poses which she mimicked. The girl was scared at first, standing next to that monster, but she ended up doing a good job. The womens costumes were beautiful, and so were there makeup. There are a lot of poses and some scenes were high energy. The show lasted for about 2 hrs. I clapped after that…because it was over.

Being in Bali reminded me a lot of Thailand – with the scooters, cheap massages, and elephants. Yes, I said elephants. Believe it or not elephant trekking is huge here. And of course I had to go on an elephant safari. Which may I add was my favorite activity here. Upon entering we rode the elephant. The ride was 35 minutes long. There are no seat belts mind you but a rope that goes across thecompartment where you are sitting. The tiny guide sits on the neck of the elephant and guides him through the paths. It was a little bumpy but it made it a little wild and exciting. We walked through the forest, were they slept, swam, ate and bathed. We had a chance to see the whole park. And it is be-a-ut-i-ful. The elephants are so lucky. They are well taken care of there. The last part of the walk was through the river. That was pretty cool. There was a photographer who took our photos and placed them on shirts for sale. Which can be a good souvenir for your family members.

After the safari ride we had a chance to feed the elephants. Don’t worry, they are vegetarian. They didn’t want me as a meal. The elephants were very friendly and one of them placed a welcome flower necklace around my neck, I was impressed. Then after feeding and playing with them, they put on a show for us. They painted, danced, and even played soccer. The elephants are extremely intelligent.

After the show, I was able to bathe one of the animals. I bathed him with a hose and a brush. It was quite cool. I think he really enjoyed the treatment I was giving him.

My entire experience at the elephant safari was amazing. I believe this safari is one of the best out there. The elephants are cooperative, friendly, and outgoing. They are treated wonderfully, the staff are extremely friendly, and the place is very clean. I really had an awesome experience.

Everyone that I have met in Ubud are friendly. The vibe here is very relaxed. You live in the moment and don’t worry about tomorrow. Its very calm. I haven’t seen any fights, or other kind of outbreaks. There are not many smokers. One girl from my retreat is a smoker, she’s been here for a week and she said that she hasn’t even picked up  cigarette. Its just not the environment. I haven’t even seen any road rage. America needs some of this in there life.

I went for yoga classes while I was there. There are so many different options and varieties. I chose two. I started off with forest yoga. It was very soothing for my body. It really opened my thoughts and I could think clearer. The yoga class was inside but there were no walls and the view was the tropical forest. It was perfect. It was extremely relaxing. I felt like I was literally floating on air.

After the class I did restorative yoga. We used blocks, blankets, and pads for strength training, and agility. Both of the classes were packed. With both tourists and locals. Yoga is a popular activity in Bali. It was an excellent way to end each day.

Overall Bali was a great country to visit. I didn’t want to leave. I really wish I could have stayed for 30 days. There is sooo much more to explore. There are surf camps along pro surf beach, mountain cycling, cooking classes, amazing restaurants, and shopping galore. There is no reason why Bali should be excluded from anyones vacation list. I definitely will be back for seconds.

March 15th, 2013

I still remember the day of my first business class flight…….

I woke up at 930am for my 1230pm check in time. I listened to the song “its a beautiful morning,” by the rascals. I told myself that I will have a great flight with amazing seniors, happy customers, and a fun crew.

I was rostered for the afternoon London which left at 230pm. Now I am going to run through my checklist. Suitcase packed, check. Documents prepared, check. Grooming and uniform up to standard, check. I am ready to go.

When I walked into the briefing room, I immediately knew this was going to be a great flight. The energy in the room from my colleagues and seniors were positively overwhelming. I recognized a few crew that I have already flew with. One of my good friends was on the flight, so it made me feel more comfortable. To my surprise there was another girl who was going on her first flight in economy. That made me feel better to know that I was not the only one, even though she was in a different grade.

I was a little bit nervous at first because I wanted to do everything correct and not forget anything, but I had to remember its my first flight, its understandable if I didn’t remember everything my first go. The crew were very supportive and patient with me. I also had a quick reference guide that I looked at when I needed to refresh my memory. I loved the sfs (senior flight stewardess) for business. She was very helpful with all I needed and was there for me the entire time if I had any questions or help. The Purser (head person in charge of the flight) was also great too. He made the environment fun with his outgoing personality and warm character. Most importantly my  customers were all happy. I really anticipated there needs and made them the most comfortable as possible. I really loved interacting with the children and making them smile too. They were oh so cute.

Overall, business class was amazing. I love the different aspects of the class, including the lounge. There are less customers, so you can engage more with them, really making there day. Now Im looking forward to my next flights… 3 days in Toronto and Bangkok …followed by vacation in Bali!

March 15th, 2013

The training consisted of 5 days. Before the training commenced we were given booklets to complete, and other books to study. On day 1 of training were assessed based on the booklets we were to complete prior to the beginning of the course. Then for the duration of the week it consisted of classroom training, hands on learning, and doing the entire service for real. We trained in the actual model of the A380 so we set up the lounge, prepared carts, and delivered meals. On the 4th day we were broken into groups and had to do the service from beginning to end. We were then assessed on our product knowledge, teamwork, grace, and efficiency.

Some parts of the training were challenging because there is a lot of attention to detail. It seems like there is about 50 steps you have to do before delivering a meal, but after a lot of practice it all runs together and it becomes innate.

After training, I had 2 days before my very first Business Class flight. Even though I was an economy crew it is a different world upstairs. I felt like I was brand new all over again. I did feel nervous because I did not know what to really expect. But I felt very confident through my training, because I knew that I did my very best. Come on now business class. I’m ready…

March 15th, 2013

December 1, 2009 I began my journey to Dubai. When I stepped out of the plane JFK>> DXB I immediately knew this was going to be my home, and I just don’t don’t feel like this about anywhere I go. I have lived in Atlanta, Virginia, and New York. Both places I had family and friends that I knew. Now I am on my own and completely independent. I have grown so much during the short time I have been here and I thank God for this experience and opportunity.

When I arrived, I adapted extremely quickly here. I pretty much can adapt anywhere I go, which I am graced to do. Training college is where all my friendships began. There are over 180 nationalities amongst the entire crew. Even though we come from all different backgrounds we can still relate to each other. We all share that same ambition. We packed up all our things and moved to another country away from home, not knowing anyone or ever having been to Dubai. Now thats shows a real drive for life.

When I first arrived, I lived in Al Nada which was about 20 min away from the city. It was very quite and not a lot of excitement going on.  Now I live on Sheikh Zayed Road which is the busiest street in Dubai, with everything central to where I am. Here I feel more in my element. I guess you can say that Im a city girl.  Transportation is extremely easy. There are taxis everywhere and at reasonable rates. You don’t need a car to get around. Theres also a train station you can use as well. Its very cheap. There are public transportation buses, but those can be very slow. Mostly everyone uses a taxi or has a car.

Since I have moved to Dubai I get the famous oh “why did you move so far away from home.” — Look, I lived in the USA for 24 years of my life. I am over it. Don’t get me wrong, I do love my country but its great to explore the world, live in other countries, and experience new things. Since living here it really has opened my mind on a deeper level. When I go on vacation I don’t think Miami or Bahamas I’m thinking ITALY or SPAIN.

I am not homesick at all. I remember my first vacation to the US and I was ready to go back after 5 days. I missed Dubai. I missed the city, my friends, and my apartment. I have established a home here. And when it comes down to it, my US home is just one non-stop flight away. When I went away to college it was just one flight away as well. Now, its just a little longer.

Many people ask when Im moving back to the US. Living abroad is addictive. I don’t see myself back in the US anytime soon. I definitely will be living in another country before I return. Its just the matter of choosing which one, out of the 196 in the world.