Starry Starry Night...

Inhabitants of the International Space Station take the art of stargazing to a whole new level. Check out the view from the ultimate travel destination - space.

The Stars as Viewed from the International Space Station. from AJRCLIPS on Vimeo.

America the Beautiful

Hello, everyone, I am back!

I am currently job searching in Beantown. It's pretty tough in this economy but I am trying to use this time wisely and keep the faith like many people around our great nation.

Speaking of the good ol' U.S. of A, I've established a new future goal to help satisfy my wanderlust.

A roadtrip across America!

For as long as I can remember I have loved politics, U.S. history, apple pie and just about all things American. Just the idea of reliving the history of the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania, taking in the wonder that is the Famous Corn Palace of Mitchell, South Dakota, or checking out the music scene in Austin, Texas makes me want to pack my bags and camera now.

I can't wait until I can pull out out my Rand McNally map and get out on the open road!

Hiatus

Jaya Bird will be going on Hiatus until this Fall. Try not to miss me too much and happy traveling!

Back in Beantown!

I am back in Boston networking and spending some time with friends -- more to come!

Just a Friendly Hello?

Americans are well known for their innate friendliness. However, one of the primary pieces of advice I received prior to my trip overseas was be on guard and watch out for my wallet. While this was a very valid recommendation, I often found that people just wanting to talk. Sometime they used our conversation to practice English, or as a chance to learn about my culture and life and to tell me about their own. Once I learned how to strike a balance between being reasonably cautious and open at the same time I learned so much. My subsequent interactions really enriched my overall travel experience.


As Ted Nelson of Traveling Ted TV puts it, "As a foreigner in another country you are as exotic to them as they are to you. Many people will approach you just to say hello and talk to you. Many just want to practice English. Although scams abound, not everyone who approaches is out to separate you from your money. Be wary, but not so much where you have a closed attitude."

Read Ted's entire post here.

Picture by Jaya Bird: Locals strolling around the Piazza del Duomo after a snow storm

Egyptian treasures slowly being found

I was so dismayed to see precious artifacts housed in the Cairo Museum's stolen and damaged during the Egyptian Revolution. I was there only two weeks prior --- and as a individual who's not big on museum --- I admit,was absolutely fascinated. Each ancient artifact had an amazing story behind it.

So it was great to hear that these priceless pieces are slowly being recovered. So far 23 of the 54 objects missing have been found.

Picture by Jaya Bird: Cairo Market

Global Classroom

Here's a great post from the travel blog,Ordinary Traveller entitled: "5 Things Travel Can Teach You." The truth in each of the valuable lessons mentioned were definitely reinforced during my time abroad.

Picture by Jaya Bird: Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany