I’d imagine that most of my readers will be family and friends trying to keep tabs on my whereabouts and adventures in far-off lands. However, there is the off chance that you’ve come across my site through a random link or search.

This Web site is not only a public diary of my travels, but also one where people can find packing tips, travel and destination advice and most importantly, inspiration to do something like this in their lifetime.

I’d love for this Web site to gain recognition in the travel blogosphere and hope you will continue reading my updates. At the core of any good publication is its readers and its commenters. And in order for this site to have a community-like feel, I’d like to share 10 things about me so you can get to know me better:

• I’m a New Yorker, born and raised on the South Shore of Long Island. Lately though, I’ve called Stamford, Conn. my home, after moving there upon finishing college at the University of Delaware.
• I graduated college in three years, earning me the nickname “Doogie Howser” with some colleagues at my first job. Between my late October birthday and finishing school early, people mistake me for some kind of genius. And trust me, it is a mistake.
• I have an affinity for learning new cultures and languages. I can currently only speak Spanish at an intermediate level, French at a beginner level and string together sentences in Hebrew, but one day I’d like to be fluent in all three.
• The first time I went to Europe, I did it on a 25-day EF tour. The tour was great, and is likely what sparked my insatiable desire to travel, but I would never do a group tour again. Too much running around in too little time.
• I don’t consider myself particularly religious, but I have a deep connection with Israeli culture. I’ve been fortunate enough to spend time with Israeli soldiers on a semi-regular basis and the first time I visited the Holy Land, my relationship with the country was solidified.
• The tangible things (read: besides people) that I anticipate missing the most while I’m away are a cold glass of milk, my green high-top Chuck Taylors, Sierra Grille Mexican food, Black Bear SoNo and my car.
• My favorite countries that I’ve visited are Israel and France. My favorite cities are Paris, Vienna and San Diego. I have little desire to visit Australia, but I’ve always wanted to visit Thailand, so I’m super excited my trip begins there.
• Music is one of the most important aspects of my life. Anyone who knows even the tiniest bit about me knows that I am a classic rock fiend, I have superior Beatles trivia knowledge and that my favorite song is “Hey Jude.” Thanks, Mom.
• I’ve had my nose pierced three times.
• My favorite story I’ve ever published. It won an honorable mention for the Connecticut Society of Professional Journalists in 2008 and was featured on the Yahoo homepage and in USA Today’s Cruise Log blog.