INSPIRATION: BOOKS

“It is so hard to leave—until you leave. And then it is the easiest goddamned thing in the world.”

I know this book is really cliché, and I'm referencing an already well known book, but Paper Towns was easily one of my favourite books in high school (and possibly even still), as was multiple other books by John Green. While this book is not necessarily about traveling (even though part of the book is the main character driving across the country to find a girl), it is all about stepping about stepping outside your comfort zone and doing things that scare you.

INSPIRATION: MUSIC

"after all it was a great big world, with lots of places to run to"

PLACES: DINERS

Happy Pancake Tuesday everyone! This isn't going to be one of my typical 'Places' post where I usually write about a specific location, instead it's going to be about an americana travel/ road trip staple in celebration of Pancake Tuesday: Diners!

I LOVE diners, especially the really obnoxious fifties era ones (original or not), I love all things retro and americana. As much as I hate to admit, my love for fifties diners probably stems from the movie Grease.

P.S. If it doesn't have a jukebox, leave.

PLACES: NEW ORLEANS

I thought that since Mardi Gras was this past weekend, I would take to opportunity to write about my craving to visit New Orleans.

For the longest time I have wanted to visit New Orleans whether it be for Mardi Gras (I love masquerade masks), or just to experience New Orleans. However, I think I'm most attracted to the historical architecture. I just find it all stunning, especially the buildings of the French Quarter; the oldest neighbourhood in New Orleans and rich with intricate iron work.


Part of the French Quarter is probably one of the most well known streets; Bourbon Street. This historical street, now comes to life at night, lined with bars, and live music.

INSPIRATION: MUSIC

everything was 2007 and nothing hurt from acnelson on 8tracks Radio.

So you've probably heard... Fall Out Boy is back from hiatus. This means that I've been drowning myself in pop/punk nostalgia, nonstop listening to bands like Cute Is What We Aim For, All-American Rejects (early Tyson Ritter makes me swoon; see Swing Swing music video for reference), and more. I found this mix on 8tracks and it consists of songs that filled my dingy mp3 player during early high school, and bring back memories of Warped tour and concerts where we would make fun of all the girls for wearing those hoodies that come in various colours with the white zipper (you know, the Justin Beiber ones). Anyways, I hope you'll enjoy drowning in nostalgia as much as I do and have a listen, these songs also make pretty great driving tunes!

PLACES: MEMPHIS

Memphis, Tennessee, home of musical legends including Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis. There is no doubt that the city has a rich musical culture, especially on Beale Street which is one of the main reasons I'm interested in Memphis. 

Beale Street runs along the Mississippi River, and is rich with Memphis and Blues History. Outdoor festivals and concerts are also a frequent sight on Beale. Drinks on a patio... Greasy Food... Southern Charm... Live music... I'm sold.

Pictured above, is the famous Rum Boogie Cafe on Beale Street. The restaurant features more than 360 guitars belonging to and signed by famous bands and singers including The Eagles,  Pearl Jam, Guns N Roses, and Elvis.