Kissy's World

Well sort of… I’m always looking for ways to pack light with the use of only my Carry-On . Over the years of travelling, I’ll like to think I’ve come a far way from what I used to be. I use to be the girl that practically brings her entire wardrobe when she goes travelling. I mean one week away would include my checked luggage, my carryon and personal hand bag. The best part is that I would come back home with more than half unworn. Thank God I’ve come to the realization that I do not need my entire wardrobe to feel comfortable that I have brought everything I need.   The turning point for me was when I went backpacking throughout South America. I remember buying my backpack and thinking how will all my clothes fit in one bag and if I bring too much will it kill my back. I knew I had to be strategic about what I needed to bring, so I did some research and I made sure I planned ahead. I must say it took some practice as it certainly did not come overnight for me but I’v...

Let me start by saying that Aruba is one Beautiful and Happy Island. I stayed at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, the Marina Bay location. This was only a 10 minute drive from the airport or probably even closer. Getting to the Hotel, I was pleased with the services of the staff and luckily enough I had just arrived in time for Happy Hour.  This ADULTS ONLY location had a Casino and a few restaurants you could choose from. My two favourites were Aquarius and L.G Smith’s Steak & Chop House (before becoming a Pescatarian). I was in love with the pool and how it overlooked the Bay area.  Keep in mind there are two Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino locations. The Renaissance Marina Hotel is the adults only location and the Renaissance Ocean Suite location is family friendly.  Because I stayed at the Renaissance, the private beach was accessible to me by boat. The speed boats came every 15 minutes on the clock to pick and drop guest o...

As of lately, I’ve gotten too many direct messages on my social media accounts, inquiring about safety in Brazil. Decided to address it on my blog as it may be of use to future travellers going to Brazil.  In my personal experience I can say that I’ve never been a victim of any violence in Brazil or any other country (knock wood). As we all know violence exist everywhere and in each city no matter where you go. I’ve heard countless horror stories from travellers I’ve met along the way and it never gets any easier listening to their nightmares. Needless to say that even with those encounters it did not prevent them from travelling to unfamiliar grounds and experiencing different cultures. The one thing that I always try and remember is that no experience is the same. We all view and experience things differently. With that being said, I’ve list a few things I would strongly suggest taking a look at or doing while travelling. Research its Key : Planning ahead is su...

Waking Up in Rio de Janeiro and Bahia RIO DE JANEIRO, RIO DE JANEIRO My first time visiting Rio de Janeiro was back in 2015. School was out and I would spend the next month and a bit backpacking South America. First up was Rio. I fell in love with this place the moment I arrived in its beauty and lets be honest my first Caipirinha. Lost in translation, not being able to communicate with most people and even with the airline loosing my luggage which meant I would spend the next few hours or days in Toga wear was all apart of the journey. From the meat (huge meat lover), the people, the environment and the vast amount of options I had at my hands, I knew I would visit again. This time I was able to journey back to Rio and for the first time, Salvador. Of course I loved it too, especially more so now that I had help! José was my voice box as he speaks fluent Portuguese. I didn’t realize until that moment how much of a difference speaking a main language in a country would...

YOURS TO DISCOVER. What’s your weekend plans? Don’t feel like going away?  Wanna experience summer in Canada?  For all my explorers, wanderers and foodies in Ontario, this one is for you! My entire summer last year was spent exploring the beautiful Province of Ontario. To my surprise I’m all for Canadian Summers now and we’re just in time for the warm adventures to begin again. FESTIVALS & EVENTS Pride : Celebrating June 1st - 24th. Festival on June 22- 24th. http://www.pridetoronto.com Brunch Fest : June 1st - 3rd held at 99 Sudbury St, Toronto. Please note tickets are required $7.95. https://thebrunchfest.ca Luminato Festiva l: June 6th - 24th held all over Downtown Toronto. https://luminatofestival.com Mac n Cheese Festival : June 8th - 10th held at Milton Fairgrounds. Please note tickets are required for this event $0- $10. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/the-mac-and-cheese-festival-tickets-45800971940 TD Toronto Jazz...