the hoxton: urban lodge.

If I ever make it over to London, I think I'll spend a night or two in The Hoxton Urban Lodge. Since opening in September 2006 The Hoxton boasts that it is a place where "urban living meets country lodge lounging". The hotel also seems to be somewhat budget friendly. The earlier you book your room, the cheaper it will be. The art and decor looks pretty cool too.

that was good.

You know when you go on an amazing trip and when you get back it kind of feels like the whole trip might have been a dream? Well, that is how I'm feeling right now about my trip to southern Africa. I spent two weeks camping on top of a Land Rover and touring through South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Namibia and saw some of the most beautiful places on earth. Thanks to my brother and sister-n-law, I had a trip that will probably never be topped in my lifetime. One thing I took away from this trip is that there is no substitute for traveling and seeing how other cultures live and view the world. The internet and television can only give you so much information about what the rest of the world has to offer. Somethings just need to be experienced first hand. I could go on about all our adventures, but I won't. I took about 1,200 photos during our travels, and I put my favorites up here if you want to check them out. Thanks Brandon and Rachel for such an incredible trip!

farewell chicago.

Tomorrow afternoon I will be getting on a plane and heading to Johannesburg, South Africa. To say that I'm excited would be an understatement. I've been looking forward to this trip for several months now and I can't believe it is finally time. I will be visiting my brother, Brandon, and his wife, Rachel, who are working on behalf of the Peace Corp in South Africa. I have been so impressed by the work they are doing over there. Not only are they helping out with everything the Peace Corp has asked them to, but they have also gone above and beyond by starting the Palala Girls Club and the Palala Boys Club. I could go on for a while about all the work they are doing over there, but I'm sure whatever I say it won't do them justice. I'm not exactly sure what we will be doing while I'm over there (they're keeping it a secret), but they've told me to expect the trip of a lifetime. So you can probably understand my excitement. Be sure to check out my flickr for all the photos when I return.

necker island.

If you ever think you might need to get away to your own private island for a day you should check out Necker Island. Necker Island is Sir Richard Branson's private island that he apparently spent over $10 million dollars to convert into a luxury resort for a max of 28 guests. Private beaches, several pools, personal chefs, and much more for only $46,000 a day.

austria anyone?

If you ever find yourself in Langenfeld, Austria, you should probably stop by the Aqua Dome. This resort is set right in the Austrian Alps with easy access to beautiful views and nearby ski resorts. The spas and saunus not only look amazing, but are also heated by natural springs. Sounds like a good vacation to me.