yolauralikesbeauty

Things besides the glam

Amateur Hobby Lobby Challenge in Lakeland, Florida with iPhone X

Fashion, OOTD + OOTN, Things besides the glam, Travel0

If you’re in tune with the latest trends, I’m sure you’ve seen the Hobby Lobby challenge. For those that don’t know, Hobby Lobby is a craft store comparable to Michael’s. If you live in Miami, there’s a new one in Hialeah adjacent to Westland Mall.

The Hobby Lobby challenge is basically using props in an “ugly location” without looking like it. Everyone typically uses flowers for their background and try to make the pictures look as professional as possible. It’s actually an extension of the “ugly location” photo challenge.

If you wanna know who started these trends, look up  and @_KelseyMaggart. They’re young American photographers with some cool content, but just be mindful of their ego before you try to praise them like I did — Buzzfeed makes anyone feel brand new ?

I’ve never been to a Hobby Lobby before, so I thought that this was the perfect opportunity to participate in the challenge. Here’s our amateur attempt!

We’re Waiting to Be Called, IMG Models

serious-face-girl-with-beach-hat-hobby-lobby-challenge-lakeland-florida laughing-face-girl-with-beach-hat-hobby-lobby-challenge-lakeland-florida

I’m super awkward when it comes to pictures, so I gave my signature smirk my best shot. I gotta say, my Hobby Lobby challenge pictures make me feel like a travel blogger! I was laughing through the whole thing, and my friends managed to snap a nice candid of me laughing ?

serious-face-girl-hobby-lobby-challenge-lakeland-florida laughing-face-girl-hobby-lobby-challenge-lakeland-florida

My friend had her smize down packed. Not sure if this was the Hobby Lobby challenge for her or a professional shoot for Southern Living. She killed it either way. She was laughing the most, so we have many outtakes for her ??

smirking-face-girl-hobby-lobby-challenge-lakeland-florida side-profile-smirking-face-girl-hobby-lobby-challenge-lakeland-florida

My other friend looked so graceful and majestic. I don’t even think any of these pics count as an outtake. We were hearing some Janis Joplin the night before this adventure, so I’m sure she was channeling her inner hippie and flower power in these shots ???

smiling-girl-with-cap-hobby-lobby-challenge-lakeland-florida

And of course she came out perfect and had no outtakes!! ? she’s a fellow blogger, so check her out ??‍♀️ @annamariahouse

How was our attempt of the Hobby Lobby challenge? We all think it was pretty solid! Have you tried it? If not, what are you waiting for?!

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

Central Florida Girl’s Trip Itinerary and Tips For a Weekend Trip

Things besides the glam, Travel0

Summer = trips! This summer I’ve already had 2 great trips. My first trip was to Central Florida during Memorial Day weekend. I visited Tampa, St. Petersburg and Lakeland. It was great because I got to see a side of Central Florida that I didn’t expect. Here’s my Central Florida itinerary for a weekend trip with your girls ??

Day 1 — Tampa and St. Petersburg

I drove to Tampa early in the afternoon. Before I headed out, I had my classic tortellini and strawberry banana smoothie at Panera. This is where I met up with a friend to pick her up. I ate at her house once I arrived. I’ve already been to Tampa several times, so I didn’t explore this time around.

We drove to St. Petersburg in the early evening. We met with another friend that came in from Lakeland and had dinner at Hawker’s Scratch Asian Street Food. It’s a cute lil market style restaurant with legit asian food. Some of our favorites of the night were steamed pork belly baos and Korean twice fried wings ? Japanese beer Sapporo was also yummy ?

hawkers-scratch-asian-street-food-steamed-pork-belly-baos

hawkers-scratch-asian-street-food-korean-twice-fried-wings

We walked around the strip where Hawker’s was and just soaked in St. Petersburg’s evolving nightlife. Before it got too late, we drove about one hour to Lakeland. And of course we stayed up late catching up. I was enjoying the calmness of Central Florida so far in comparison to Miami!

downtown-st-petersburg-window-shopping-positive-quote

downtown-st-petersburg-window-shopping-coco-chanel-quote

Day 2 — Lakeland

We had a quick breakfast at my friend’s place to get the day started. My friend took a scenic route on our way to the Frank Lloyd Wright Museum. Lakeland is beautiful, and it’s a breath of fresh air compared to Miami. I really enjoyed getting a feel of Florida beyond skyscrapers and highways. The museum ended up being a gem, and it’s cool to think that Florida has a historical treasure like the Usonian house. It’s a must see if you’re in Central Florida!

frank-lloyd-wright-usonian-house-musuem-fsc

group-pic-frank-lloyd-wright-house-musuem

We ended up chilling for a bit and headed to Fred’s Market for lunch. Omg, it was a foodie’s dream come true. It was the best Southern Food I’ve ever had!! Great service and buffet style as well. I never wanted to leave. I need Fred’s Market to expand beyond Central Florida and venture into Miami!

freds-market-lakeland-blue-plate-special

Quick trip back to my friend’s place to pick up another friend and head to Hobby Lobby. We decided to have some boozy crafts! We picked up supplies for embroidery and used Pinterest to pick our design and quotes.

boozy-crafts-glass-of-reisling-embroidery

After a few wine glasses and hours of embroidery, we decided to grab some dinner. We headed out to Palace Pizza. They closed at 9, and we showed up around 8:20. Most of their speciality pizzas were out, so my one of my friends and I opted to share a cheese pizza. We ordered a large cheese pizza, and it looked like an extra extra large. Believe me when I say that this pizza is comparable to Joe’s Pizza in New York, their #1 pizza. I was sooo impressed by their cheese pizza!!

It was big enough for all 4 of to share, but our other friends already ordered their own slices. We saved the leftovers for tomorrow. We also had their garlic rolls, which were also divine. If I lived in Tampa, I’d definitely make the hour drive to get this pizza regularly!

palace-pizza-lakeland-large-cheese-pizza

Day 3 — Tampa

It’s my friend’s birthday!! We decided to have a hip brunch Miami style (cute outfits, poppin’ restaurant and a mini photoshoot) at Oxford Exchange. But of course, I had a slice of last night’s pizza for breakfast before heading out for the 1 hour drive to Downtown Tampa. We made our reservation a month in advance (my project manager is showing), and it was definitely worth the wait!

Oxford Exchange is vintage and modern at the same time. The service was also great and made me feel like a special guest. I had a black bean burger, one friend had eggs benedict and another friend had fried avocado wedges accompanied by a breakfast flatbread.

group-pic-oxford-exchange-downtown-tampa

Not to mention there was a bookstore and Warby Parker, so we were all in our happy place. A wedding was also about to take place, so our inner hopeless romantics were soaring. I really enjoyed this place!!

For dinner, my friend from Lakeland went back home, and I stayed with my friend from Tampa to have dinner with her family at Miller’s Ale House for her birthday. I’m lowkey obsessed with their sweet thai chili Zinger mountain melt, so I was remained happy the whole night.

Day 4 — Tampa

LAST DAY UGH. My friend and I decided to stop by Keke’s Breakfast Cafe, a breakfast hot spot in Tampa and Orlando. It was amazing!! I had turtle french toast, turkey sausage and a large glass of apple juice. My friend has her signature breakfast choice — eggs benedict — and a large glass of OJ.

kekes-breakfast-cafe-tampa-eggs-benedict

kekes-breakfast-cafe-tampa-turtle-french-toast

We were stuffed and ready to make the best of our short day. We headed to Best Buy and Target for some last minute shopping, and then I was on my way back to Miami in the early afternoon.

*****

Tips:

I consider my weekend pretty successful! After thinking about it critically, here are some suggestions and things to keep in mind to get the most out of your trip:

  • Have a plan B. My friends and I heard rumors about storms touching Florida that weekend, so we had additional things to do just incase. Boozy Crafts was our back up for our original plan to go to Apollo Beach. It all worked out!
  • Pick comfy and cute outfits. Whenever I explore a new area, I prioritize comfort. It’s not worth being uncomfortable for a cute picture. Plan your outfits around your comfort, so you can enjoy all of your activities!
  • Try local food spots. I can guarantee there’s probably a McDonald’s in every corner of the modern world. Unless you’re in a pinch and need a quick meal for whatever reason, opt to try local cuisine! Lakeland had different things to offer compared to Hispanic Miami, so I indulged. The perfect example was Fred’s Market. Seriously, come to Miami!!
    • Another must try foodie spot is Armature Works in Tampa. Think of it like a market with different vendors and restaurants. Miami peeps, think of Wynwood Yard.
    • Some Lakeland suggestions: Black ‘N Brew, Mission BBQ and Born & Bread.
  • Bring sunscreen and bug repellant no matter what. It wasn’t particularly sunny in Lakeland because of the rain, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get a sunburn. The humidity brought out all the bugs, so I regret not bringing bug repellant. It’s best to think ahead and put it on if you’re wearing anything that exposes your skin.

What do you think of my Central Florida itinerary? We all loved the girl’s trip and want a repeat! What are some things you enjoy doing in Central Florida with friends? Let me know in the comments below!

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

How to Choose and Pack Your Luggage for Study Abroad or a Big Trip

Things besides the glam, Travel0

The hardest about study abroad is figuring out how to pack. You don’t live in this foreign country, so the weather patterns are unfamiliar. You probably don’t dress like the civilians. There’s many things to consider and it’s pretty stressful ngl. Here’s my way of making this stage of the adventure easier:

This might seem trivial, but it’s actually crucial. Study abroad was my first solo trip that incorporated an airport. My professors (Hi Bustos and Park!) stressed that we’re going to be carrying our own bags. Our luggage cannot slow us down. We had a train to catch and they’re very punctual. If we couldn’t easily handle our luggage, it wasn’t the right one for us!

I took this advice seriously because I have noodle arms and being daddy’s girl means that my dad takes care of my luggage. I chose to take a carry-on size suitcase. Yes, you read that right. Carry on size suitcase. Before you follow my footsteps, consider the following:

  1. Are you going to be in cold weather? We both know big coats and boots will not fit in there with the rest of your clothes.
  2. Do you have access to a washing machine or laundromat? Yes, it’s legal to repeat parts of an outfit or even whole outfits! If you don’t have access, you need an outfit for every day.
  3. What’s the length of your trip? My study abroad trip was a month long. Don’t expect to fit a semester worth of clothes in a carry-on suitcase!
  4. Will you be moving between locations? Ask yourself if you can lug around a 1/3 of your closet without ease.

These are essential questions because they make you think realistically. All parts of traveling should be comfortable. That brings up the next important part of picking your luggage: the quality. There are few things in life that demand excellent quality and luggage is one of them. A good quality bag will have a sturdy handle and stick (I’m so informal lmao but I couldn’t find the official name). You’ll have to be manhandling your bag as you pull it off baggage claim and stuff it into the overhead carry-on bin. The stick comes in handy because your bag will be able to withstand of your luggage full of souvenirs post trip. A good quality bag will also have wheels that turn 360 degrees. Your bag will be able to keep up with little resistance as your run across the airport!

Here’s a list of top suitcases just in case you’re in the market for one. If you’re saving coins to spend shopping on your trip instead, visit your local Ross, Marshall’s or TJ Maxx for affordable name brand suitcase! That’s what I did and it worked out. Just make sure to shop with time if you visit these stores because you’re not always guaranteed to find what you’re looking for the first time.

Fill that suitcase!

Now that chose the appropriate bag for your trip, you can start deciding what you should pack. Similar to when picking luggage, you must consider the weather, the length of your trip and places you’re going to when choosing outfits. Here are some important things to consider once you decide the prior:

  1. Summer clothing is not the same outside of America. No shade to Americans, but we won’t hesitate to pull out tiny teeny shorts when it’s scorching hot outside. Not everyone thinks like us — in Spain, people kinda just deal with the heat and dress with jeans and knee length shirts. I even saw light dresses. No one really gravitates towards short shorts.
  2. Dress comfortably. Chances are that your trip will be slammed with activities. You’ll most likely wake up very early, wear that morning outfit until the night and change into a nighttime outfit if you’re not too worn out. Prioritize being comfortable over being fashionable. Find ways to incorporate comfortable walking shoes. Roads are different every where you go, so you must consider your feet. Tie a jacket around your waist because you’ll never know when you’ll encounter an insufferably cold room.
  3. Pack efficiently. Most people overpack on trips. We get scared we’d forget something and regret it, but we almost never wear all of the extra stuff we bought. Security is important, but being realistic trumps it. The most common advice I came across online pack articles of clothing that can be worn in a variety of ways. Think of the staples in your closet and how you re-wear them in numerous ways. Vacation is a perfect excuse to strut in a new wardrobe, but consider how much space that’ll take up. Remember to leave some space in your bag for souvenirs. Don’t lie to yourself; you will shop when you’re abroad!

If you want outfit ideas, check out Pinterest. Below are a couple of pins I used to guide me and others for popular travel destinations:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/40532465377178138/

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/490329478173363688/

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/314266880225512752/

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/83246293086376694/

These packing guides were extremely helpful for me. I had no idea they existed until I went on Pinterest. It’s convenient to see actual clothes pictured so I know how my closet matches. You don’t have to buy exactly what’s in these images, but it guides if you plan to shop for your trip. The most important to remember is to pack what’s comfortable and your style without offending your host country. If you want to see exactly what I wore during study abroad, check out my France, Spain and Morocco style guides!

Is there anything else we should’ve packed? Do you have other travel tips for packing? If you need more help, a lot of people film themselves packing and explain why they chose certain items on YouTube!

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/ARDImX3785rcv-oyCCxQcRDarjd19748AhZHTnjUOcy6XJ4MJyPUqlc/

What To Do Before You Leave to Study Abroad or a Big Trip

Things besides the glam, Travel0

So, you did the unthinkable and what some people are too scared to do. You signed up for a trip half way across the world with absolute strangers! If you’re able to bring your bestie along with you, consider yourself blessed. If you can’t, no worries. I signed up for study abroad alone and it’s singlehandedly the best decision I’ve ever made.

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My closest study abroad friends — we met in Madrid and hit it off!

Study abroad can be intimidating You’ll be at least 2 weeks away from home probably in an unfamiliar place. Culture shock is very real, so you’ll have to cope with that while focusing on your class and enjoying the experience. I have some tips to make study abroad less stressful and more enjoyable, and it starts even before you hop on your flight!

Passport/ Visas

Before you can even think about boarding a flight, you need to make sure your documents are in check. You must verify when your passport is expiring. If your passport is expiring soon or during your trip, please go renew it. You’re going to be in contact with personnel from different countries. They all have different laws for passports and entering their country.

For example, the U.S. government advises travers to have a passport that’s valid 6 months after they’re traveling because some countries can deny their entry. It is suggested to renew your passport 9 months before it expires, so get to it! The routine renewal process can take 6 – 8 weeks. Expedited renewal take about 2 -3 weeks. In the case of an emergent situation like the death of a family member, you can renew your passport in 8 business days at agency locations. However, you must provide valid proof such as a life or death emergency. If you’re traveling within 2 weeks or need a foreign visa within 4 weeks, you need to make an appointment with your nearest passport agency. Visit www.travel.state.gov for more detailed information!

Group Chats

The first meeting for study abroad is always the most awkward one. Everyone is gawking at each other. If you’re embarking on this trip without someone you know, you’re calculating who could be your roommate and buddy through the trip. It takes a while to break the ice, so I suggest creating a group chat on Whatsapp or Group Me. everyone can share travel information like flights or ideas for cool things to do during free times. You’ll have a chance to get to know everyone and what to expect from your peers on the trip.

I suggested making the group chat for my study abroad trip. I told my professors and they gave me everyone’s numbers. Almost everyone had a Whatsapp, so it was really easy and great. At the following meetings, my professors mentioned the chat and the people not in the chat approached me and joined.

Flights

Let’s be real: a flight to Europe or Asia from the States is long and uncomfortable. Chances are that you won’t be paying for a first class seat, so you have to make the best of your regular degular seat. Mentally prepare yourself, it’s at least a 10 hour flight.

I recommend trying to find a direct flight. Websites like www.studentuniverse.com have low fares and sometimes discount codes. When I booked my flight to Spain, I got $30 off. My whole flight was only $486! The Skyscanner app on the app store is also great. You can set up alerts from within the app to know when prices change.

My biggest tip for finding a flight is (1) booking flights on Tuesdays because flights are always cheaper on this day and (2) finding a friend to book the flight with because it’ll make it less intimidating to travel so far. I booked my flight with a girl I met at a study abroad meeting. I voiced how I wanted to visit museums and she came up to me afterwards saying she wanted to join me. We exchanged numbers and booked our flights together. Don’t be afraid to be yourself and be friendly with others!

Side Trips

Your study abroad trip properly offers optional side trips to nearby cities or countries. My program was in Sevilla, so I had 2 side trips — one to Granada and one to Morocco. For the Morocco trip, everything was all-inclusive for only 200 euros, which was about $215. Not all programs feature side trips, but if yours does, I encourage you to participate! You’ll regret not doing it once you’re back home.

image-of-rural-morocco-outside

If your program isn’t offering a side trip, consider going on one! Once you’re abroad, it’ll be affordable and easier to travel, whether it’s across a country or the continent. There are many itineraries available online to assist you. My biggest tip is to look at different travel itineraries and form your own one according to your needs. You know if you’re willing to wake up early and what you’re interested in seeing.

*****

My advice could be applied to non-study abroad trips and just any international travel overall! If you want to go abroad without the school part, you can check www.eftours.com. they plan trips for college students. You’ll be able to meet new people and explore the world at a great price! 

Travelling is a magical experience and I encourage everyone to travel as often as they can. the excitement for preparing for a journey isn’t even nearly as good as the journey itself. What do you do to prepare for a trip that I haven’t mentioned? What’s your next trip? Let me know in the comments below!

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

Photoshoot at Wynwood with Alexa | Things to do in Miami, Florida

Beauty, Glamshoots, Things besides the glam, Travel0

I’ve gotten super into photography lately! By lately, I mean for a few months now lol. Study abroad pushed my interest. I wanted to capture my trip well, so I can look back to these images and relieve my experience. I went to Wynwood with my cousin Alexa a few weeks after my study abroad trip and ended up having a small photoshoot with her.

For those that don’t know, Wynwood is a poppin’ lil art district in Miami, Florida. Think of it as an outdoor museum. Several galleries are housed in this area. Many local artists showcase their art in these galleries, getting their first big break. The Walls have stunning art that periodically changes. It’s a hot spot for street artists. Iconic artist Shepard Fairy even left his mark there. If you study, make or even simply appreciate art in Miami, chances are that you’ve taken a trip to Wynwood.

There are many small business and creatives contributing to the grandeur of Wynwood. The most popular businesses happen to be restaurants and food trucks. Among some of the most popular are Kush, Coyo Taco and Panther Coffee. If you want a good taste of this lil district, visit when the Art Walks are taking place the second Saturday of every month. Or stop by during the week of Art Basel. Wynwood is a place you must visit on a trip to Miami despite what locals think!

The Glam Photoshoot

Hope you enjoyed this lil photoshoot! What are other cool places great for photoshoots in Miami? If you live outside of Miami, what areas near you that are similar to Wynwood?

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

NY Itinerary for Makeup Lovers, Museum Geeks + Foodies

Beauty, Things besides the glam, Travel0

As you might’ve seen, I went to New York for Labor Day Weekend. I made makeup shopping one of my trip’s main objectives ? I also threw in some clothes shopping. Below is my itinerary and some tidbits from the stores I visited!

Day 1

  • e.l.f. Studio

SO BEAUTIFUL! Wow, this store was breathtaking! It was tiny, but it suited e.l.f.’s vibes and product range. e.l.f. has a lot of products, and I feel like the store layout emphasized that. Is it weird that their store reminded me of their website lol?

  • Superdry

This was across the street from the e.l.f. Store. The Japanese letters on the outside caught my attention because my boyfriend visited Japan and loved it. I wanted to go inside to see if I found him something, and I ended finding things for myself instead lmaooo. Got him something, too ?

  • SoHo

OH. MY. GOODNESS. SOHO IS A DREAM.

I didn’t stay for long because I was hungry, so I went to get some food. I came back afterwards.

  • Tacombi Fonda Nolita

BEST MEXICAN FOOD OF MY LIFE. HANDS DOWN. AND AMAZING SERVICE. Learn, Miami!! It was very spicy. I can’t even handle mild spiciness lmao, but it was delicious!! I don’t even know how I handled it. It was the perfect touch for my quesadilla.

I also had the BEST guac of my life here. So fresh and so perfect. I’m so speechless. Chipotle guac feels soooo mediocre now compared to this. This food was so authentic overall and now I can’t settle for faux Mexican food.

And I tried my first Modelo beer. I’ve had better lol, but it was still a great touch for the meal!

And we’re back to shopping!

  • Uniqlo SOHO

I loved this store in France. I prefer that one over this one in SOHO, but it was still nice to look at. Maybe it’s because all the winter clothes were rolling out here, and I don’t need that in Miami lol.

  • Forever 21

Cutest Forever 21 I’ve ever been to! It has an additional floor below, which was so cool to me. There was so much variety and even the men’s section had a great selection. I like this one more than all of the ones in Miami.

  • Ricky’s NYC

It’s been a dream of mine to visit Ricky’s because they’ve liked my Instagram pictures a few times. When I say this is makeup heaven, I’m not exaggerating! So many great online and professional brands are sold here. The staff is also super friendly and knowledgeable.

The best part of all is that mostly everything was in stock! Similar stores to this back home, like The Makeup Club Fl. in Hollywood has almost everything out of stock consistently and that’s so annoying ?

  • St. Ives Mixing Bar

I was super excited to visit the St. Ives Mixing Bar, but I was gravely disappointed when I realized the products were over the carry on travel limits. I traveled with a carry on because it was a weekend trip.

You can basically create your own lotions, face scrubs and face washes here!

I love St. Ives’s products, so I was nearly crushed that I couldn’t make my own products lol.

  • Artists & Fleas – Chelsea

I was also super excited to come to Artist & Fleas to buy some Pamela Barsky (@pamelabarsky) goodies! I found her on Instagram, and I love her work. She makes the cutest pouches with hilarious phrases. Check her out!

  • Carlo’s Bakery – Hoboken, NJ

I’ve seen snippets here and there of Cake Boss and I was also curious about his desserts. I decided that if I were to visit the Cake Boss, it had to be the original one ?

I took a PATH train to New Jersey and eagerly waited in line to try his cannoli. He’s said on his show to try it. There was even 2 TV screen inside on loop talking about the shop and how the cannoli is a must-have…It was okay lmao. It was my first cannoli ever, but i expected more ☹️

  • Whitney Museum of Art

I was the most excited to visit the Whitney Museum of American Ar! I’ve seen some of their pieces thanks to my Instagram feed, and I was so intrigued.

The museum was way better than I imagined. The first floor I visited, the top one, had Alexander Calder works. I nearly died!!! I’ve been dying to see his art. I wanted to see his exhibit at the Tate. I had no idea his works were in NY, so I was pleasantly surprised.

The other floors were just as amazing or even better. This museum chronicles pivotal moments in American history. There’s even works in reference to the Black Lives Matter movement and police brutality. It was beautifully curated and displayed. These works are so relevant and capture the triumph of socio -political movements. It’s interesting to see the year these were made because some of these issues and movements still persist. This is a must-see. It totally puts the American experience for non-white folks into perspective. It’s an amazing way to expand your horizons, so check it out if you’re ever in New York!

Even the stairs showcased an exhibit!

  • Vinnie’s Pizzeria

After a long day of shopping and indulging in fabulous art, I scarfed down the best pizza I’ve ever had. This lil spot is almost easy to miss because it’s tucked into a shopping center. There aren’t many seats inside, so I was lucky to snag a booth. The only downside is that they only accept cash, but they conveniently have an ATM right inside the restaurant. You gotta have the chicken parm pizza and barbecue pizza like I did! ?

Don’t forget the garlic knots!

Day 2 – Sun. Sept. 3

  • Food Tour of NYC — Murray’s Cheese Shop

I really wanted to do something different in New York this time around. I wanted to learn more about New York’s culture and history, so I stumbled upon Foods of NY Tours. I actually searched for things to do a second time in New York.

I’m a very picky eater, so I was looking forward to expanding my horizons! I was pretty nervous if I must be honest lmaooo. I also wanted to have New York’s best eats and this was great way to do it.

Meatball in marinara sauce

Eggplant rollatini

Chocolate chip cookie

Cannoli

I won’t share the names of these places just so you can check out the tour. Support a local business! ?

This tour shows how New York came to be the melting pot it is today. My tour guide Steven was excellent. He was very informative and made the tour very lighthearted. He had great recommendations outside of the food tour as well. I also enjoyed interacting the people on the tour. They were so friendly!

I highly recommend the specific tour I did — Greenwich Village. It’s some of the most diverse and delightful food I’ve ever had!

  • SoHo

Of course I went back to look at what else I can snag ?

  • Palma

Steven highly recommended eating at Palma. He said it was so romantic and the type of place you take the love of your life too lol. I agree with him. It’s such a nice and sultry atmosphere. The ambiance feels so chic. I felt important there lmao. The service and food were fantastic. I also had the best rosé I’ve ever had here.

I left my heart in Greenwich Village! ?

Day 3 – Mon. Sept. 4

  • Joe’s Pizza

I thought Vinnie’s Pizzeria was the best. Girl, I was wrong. Joe’s Pizza is on another level. I loved it so much on the food tour (only place I’ll share lol) that I had to have to again. It’s indisputable why this is considered the best pizza in New York. And of course I had it for breakfast [upside down smiling emoji]

  • Sephora

You know I had to visit Sephora on this trip. Naturally, I had to go big, so I went to the one in Times Square ?

Biggest one I’ve ever been in!

  • Superdry Times Square

And of course I had to visit Superdry…again… ?

  • MET Museum

And the last thing I had to do before jumping on a flight back home was visit an art museum. I checked it different exhibits this time around — Chinese art, Japanese art, Korean art, Egyptian art and some Australian art. I swung by for a bit around the modern art exhibit and found some works I didn’t see last year in New York.

I love you, New York!

What are your favorite thing to do in New York? Do you love it as much as me and want to plan an annual trip lol?

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

A Style Guide for France

Fashion, OOTD + OOTN, Things besides the glam, Travel0

Oui, lil me spent 5 days in Pariiiii. I had crepes and cried at museums. It was life changing.

Paris is my favorite place on this Earth, so far. I loved everything — the rich culture, the museums, the beauty of the landscape, the friendliness of the French (which may come as a surprise to some) and just the overall airy vibe in France. France didn’t feel as tense as I expected due to recent terrorist attacks. It was nice getaway from the U.S. and my daily routine.

While in France, I immediately noticed that women were very well-dressed and fashionable. Their looks were timeless rather than trendy. They indulged in a lot of muted colors and simple pieces. Everything looked like it was of great quality. Outfits were also practical and appropriate for the weather. In other words, they weren’t extra lmao.

As a tourist, my best advice is to dress appropriately and to consider the weather. I didn’t see cleavage, short shorts or mini skirts. I saw some crop tops, but they were tastefully paired with boyfriend jeans. I saw ripped jeans as well, but without excessive rips. It’s as if though every fashion decision was meticulously decided. I appreciated that so much!

For my outfits, I decided to wear items that weren’t flashy or too short. I kept it simple and fashionable. Parisian women seemed to stress simplicity.

This blue piece was halfway to my knees. I got this at Primark in Madrid. I honestly didn’t know if it was a shirt or dress lol, so I gave myself the benefit of the doubt and wore shorts under it. This piece covered the shorts, but I had the security of shorts just in case I had a Marilyn Monroe moment. It was perfect for the weather because France was a little hot when I was out and about.

I decided to keep my accessories simple and only wore a jean choker, matching blue sunglasses, a thin gold Casio watch and matching gold stud earrings. I didn’t feel like I stuck out like a sore thumb, which was comforting lol. I felt relaxed as I went about my day.

My only regret was at night. I wish I was wearing pants because it was so chilly, and I was by the water! My recommendation is to wear light, airy pants, so that the sometimes sweltering heat doesn’t ruin your day and the night time breeze doesn’t chill every inch of your body. I wish I would’ve worn that or brought an oversized jean jacket to cover myself ?

My second outfit were high waisted shorts and a sleeveless top with ruffles. I actually bought this in the H&M in Paris by the opera house! Paris was a lil hotter that day, so I was very happy to wear this outfit lol. I remembered seeing online that interesting patterns can be tasteful in Parisian fashion. I saw these shorts, and they immediately caught my attention. These shorts are very good quality and cheaper than I thought they’d be; only 15 euros!

This top was also perfect. I saw other Parisian women wearing ruffles, so it was a smart choice. It was ribbed too, so there were lines running down the shirt that were apart of the fabric’s style. That made the outfit even more interesting and complimented it. It was very comfortable as well.

I also love these shorts because they weren’t too short. When I say absolutely no one wore anything too short, I mean it lmao. Everyone was appropriate, and this was a cute way to follow those unsaid guidelines.

My third outfit was a high-low shirt with slits at the side and medium blue skinny jeans. I was spending most of time indoors this day through museums and stores, so I wanted to make sure my legs wouldn’t get chilly. Paris was a little gloomy that day with sporadic rain showers, so it wasn’t too hot for jeans. I also wore this outfit on the way to Morocco!

This shirt is 100% cotton, making it extremely comfortable and airy for the few times I was outside and the sun was blazing. I saw many Parisian women wear stripes, so this was another nice way to fit in. I bought this top in Luisa, a store I loved and mentioned in my Spain Style Guide.

Fashion aside, comfort and safety are a must. Wear comfortable shoes‼️ I saw articles saying that running shoes make it obvious that you’re a tourist, but I choose comfort over how people perceive me. I’m gonna spend the day on my own 2 feet, not them lmao. I wore Nike running shoes with the first outfit, and I’m so glad I did; I did most of my walking that day.

The white sandals I wore in the remaining outfits were comfortable even if it didn’t look like it. I find sandals to be very comfortable, so I was good those days, too. You can find fashionable shoes that are comfortable!

Now onto to safety — I recommend a secure purse that you will be aware of at all times. Many Parisian articles online recommended over sized bags to look stylish. NO lmao. That makes it easy for pickpocketers. France has many of those in tourist areas. I had a sturdy satchel that I always had in front of me. I put my arms over it as I walked. Some people say that makes it obvious, but knowing I had my bag under my protection was reassuring. No one is going to reach into your bag if you’re holding it like that; they want to be slick. Beware‼️

One more thing: don’t be afraid to buy a Paris shirt. It’s okay to be tourist, because YOU ARE ONE! JUST ENJOY YOUR TRIP‼️

I hope my tips were helpful! I miss France so much, and I’m dying to go back ?

What do you think of my outfits for France? Would you rock these, too? Do you have fashion tips to share?

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

Makeup Souvenirs | Study Abroad 2017

Beauty, Makeup Product Reviews, Things besides the glam, Travel0

I caught the travel bug last summer and decided to uphold my makeup souvenir tradition in my new adventure. I signed up for study abroad a few weeks after I came back from New York for the first time. I visited Spain, Morocco and France. BEST AND WILDEST MONTH OF MY LIFE.

I was SO HYPED to visit Sephora in Europe, especially after I read that sephora is a French company and their HQ is in Paris *squeals* lmaooo. I’m pretty sad to report that I was gravely disappointed ? Europe doesn’t have all the brands American Sephoras have. I should’ve expected that because not all brands are all allowed to sell in Europe or just don’t. Nonetheless, I found great things to take back with me to the states!

Study abroad things: calling the U.S. “the states” and avidly comparing everything to home lol

Spain:

Let’s just appreciate this view from my room. I stayed in Madrid for 5 days (I think lol). I was in Petit Palace in Gran Via (excellent hotel btw). To my surprise, there was a Kiko Milano store 2 minutes away. I visited the Miami store in Sawgrass Mall the weak before coming to Europe. I almost screamed lmaoooo.

I went inside and fell in love. The product line felt expanded. Kiko seemed hot because many lipsticks were sold out, including some I wanted ?

I ended up picking up another lipstick: Kiko Milano Smart Fusion lipstick in 434 Chestnut. This was like a cooler/ more neutral version of Mac Velvet Teddy in my eyes. Mac Velvet Teddy looked warmer and pinkier on me.

Chestnut on the left; Velvet Teddy on the right.

This lipstick was a light, creamy matte. It was so flattering and the perfect everyday nude to wear in Europe. I also think it wore nicely even after I ate. I was tempted to buy 10 more, but I decided that I should wait considering Europe had more makeup waiting for me and it was only the third day ? I really enjoyed this formula!

I rate the Kiko MilanoSmart Fusion lipstick in 434 Chestnut 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I found a Sephora about 10 minutes away from my hotel on the way to Museo Nacional Del Prado and decided to pick up a Beauty Blender. One of my classmates said it was cheaper in Europe than Miami so I ran to pick one up lmao, but it was closed.

Museo Nacional Del Prado ?

I finally went to Sephora when I went to Sevilla and picked it up. I actually tried the pink Beauty Blender back home, but hated it. I think I got a faulty one because it was oddly shaped when it got wet. I’ve always heard the black one is the best one and that always low-key pissed me off because a color shouldn’t affect how good a sponge is ?

Excuse my dusty beauty blender ?

I ended up really enjoying the Beauty Blender. It’s good, but I don’t think it’s as magical as YouTube made it seem lol. I owned the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge before and loved it. They honestly feel exactly the same to me. I feel like neither sucks up a lot of product and that neither leaves streaks. Also, the sponges also help foundation look smooth and great on my skin.

I feel like the only differences between the two is that the RT one is larger when wet and has a flat side great for cutting the cheeks with powder to bake and blending out cream contour. The Beauty Blender is great for precise blending because the tip is slightly more precise.

I rate the black Beauty Blender, and conversely the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge, 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Morocco:

Yeah no lol we couldn’t even eat food that wasn’t provided by our tour guide ??

France:

Even before my trip to Europe began, I dreamt of going to a Sephora in Paris. I visited the one in Champ Elysees and I nearly died of excitement lmfao. THERE WAS A RED CARPET LEADING INTO THIS SEPHORA; I FELT SO ROYAL.

I was set on buying a French company’s makeup in Paris. It just felt like the right thing to do. I decided to try MakeUp Forever’s new liquid lipstick. You can BET I almost cried when I saw that this Sephora didn’t have it. This Sephora was so large and the biggest one I’ve ever been in, so I couldn’t believe it. Like damn. I was crushed lmao. I decided to pick up their traditional lipsticks instead.

MUFE has such an extensive shade range in their lipsticks and foundations! I swatched like 10 lipsticks before deciding on the one I bought. I got MakeUp Forever Artist Rouge lipstick in shade M102.

This lipstick is breathtaking. It has such an amazing and lightweight formula. It’s sheer, but the pigmentation still packs a punch. This color looks so natural and stunning on my lips. It makes my lips look juicy, making it perfect for days where I barely wear makeup or focus on my skin. It surprisingly doesn’t bleed, despite being so sheer. Also, the packing is very sleek and feels expensive; I’m not really one to care about packaging, but this cost a pretty penny and it was so worth it!

I rate the the MakeUp Forever Artist Rouge lipstick M102 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Have you been makeup shopping in another country? Have you tried anything I’ve tried? Are my reactions in the Sephora in Paris too dramatic lmaooo?

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

Makeup Souvenirs | NYC 2016

Beauty, Makeup Product Reviews, Things besides the glam, Travel0

Summer of 2016 was big for me. It was the first time I visited New York; I went with my family. It was also the first time I began to truly love a city. I mostly traveled within Florida or to the Dominican Republic to visit family. You can definitely say I caught the travel bug that summer and that it motivated me to go on study abroad ?

I decided to start a new tradition during that New York trip — buy makeup as souvenirs. That way, I’d be reminded of that trip whenever I used the product. Seeing the Mac store in Times Square was my excuse for this tradition lmaoooo.

I was so mesmerized when entered that store. I was already floating and felt like I was in heaven when I first got to Times Square, so this elevated me to new heights. The Mac store in New York is small, but beautiful. It’s carefully decorated to match their current campaigns; it was Trolls at that time.

Once I registered that this was real life and not a dream lol; I decided to buy Mac Velvet Teddy. I owned the supposed dupe of this: Milani Teddy Bare.

Funny story: one of the employees asked what lipstick I was looking for and I said Teddy Bare instead of Velvet Teddy lmaoooo. She must’ve thought I was lame because I mentioned a drugstore name in a high end place. Her facial expression said it all ?

This lipstick was NOTHING like the dupe. Velvet Teddy is the most beautiful and softest nude. Don’t get me wrong; I love Milani Teddy Bare and it’s the lipstick I’ve used the most, but this was lighter and a lot less rosy. Teddy Bare is a light pinky nude that’s like my lips but better. It’s also matte, where Teddy Bare is satin.

I’ve heard people bad mouth Mac matte lipsticks, but I actually love it. It is a little drier than my other matte lipsticks when I apply it, but it doesn’t bother me. I don’t think it weirdly accentuates my lip lines either. It’s just perfect and looks lovely paired with a deep brown lip liner — like NYX Rose Brown lip liner.

I rate Mac Velvet Teddy 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

What souvenirs do you usually look for when you travel? Am I the only one to have felt star struck in Times Square lol? What are your fave lipsticks?

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

A Style Guide for Spain

Fashion, OOTD + OOTN, Travel0

Tapas, wine, siesta, repeat.

Probably my favorite tapas in Spain. It’s from La Cantina Mexicana in Seville. Miss this place so much!

 

I hate wine lol, but visiting Bodegas Portias Grupo Faustino was cool!

 

Spain sounds like the ultimate vacation destination, doesn’t it? It has a very relaxed culture and lifestyle. Same goes for its attire.

 

Before embarking on the voyage known as study abroad, my professors made it seem like Spanish fashion was very formal and unforgiving of crop tops and shorts. My professors even told us the tale of how some girls on a past trip wore crop tops and were approach by Spaniards for prostitution services ?

 

My professors also said that everyone in Spain rocks high-quality clothing and that’s apparently obvious. You know that’ll for sure burn a hole in your pocket ?????

 

Fake news: Spain’s attire is actually pretty chill.

 

I must admit that no one really wore crop tops and short shorts; people opted for longer, flowy and breathable articles of clothing. Everyone was well-dressed everywhere I went. I fitted right in because I overdress for everything lol.

 

It wasn’t over-the-top, though. You most likely won’t feel out of place clothing-wise. Just dress a bit nicer than you usually would. If you’d wear shorts and a t-shirt, make it the nicer pair of shorts you own and a t-shirt that flatters you. Maybe wear pants instead. If you want to remain comfy and not dress up, consider some accessories to spruce up your look. Spaniards are the master of the comfy chic look.

 

My top recommendations for clothes in Spain are flowy tops and dresses (it’s HOT and you need something light and airy), comfy pants (ripped is okay!), shorts and skirts that aren’t too short and comfy walking shoes (those cobblestone streets are unforgiving).

 

 

I brought this flowy top that was dressy enough for a night out in the shopping district and light enough so I wouldn’t suffocate from the Spanish heat ? Spain has a very dry heat, so bear that in mind — even at night! Also, these sandals were cute, but not comfy enough for a long day of walking, just a relaxed outing.

 

 

This sleeveless maxi dress was flattering, kept everything in check and was ideal for the Spanish heat in Madrid ?

 

 

My go-to comfy pants were these ripped jeans I picked up at Ross. They are a very high-quality denim and paired so well with many looks. Prior to study abroad, I researched if ripped jeans were appropriate (my professors got me paranoid lmao) and I found out they’re very popular in Spain. Also, these are my comfy sandals. If I’m not feeling sneakers, I wear these.

 

Tell me: doesn’t this look like the set of a DJ Khaled video?! It’s actually the Real Alcázar de Sevilla lol ?

 

My next look with jeans was for Plaza de España, where they shot a Star Wars movie! (Don’t be fooled; I’m not a fan of the franchise nor have I seen any of the movies lmao)

 

Seville was a bit chilly that day, so be sure to bring outerwear! I recommend a heavier jacket, like a rain jacket/ coat, and something lighter like a cardigan. The rain jacket is convenient for rain and colds, unexpected days. The cardigan is light enough to complete a look without feeling uncomfortably hot or tie around your waist just in case you get chilly. If it’s very cold, you can layer them!

 

 

Here’s a glimpse of some outfits on the trip. They’re appropriate, comfy and stylish!

 

 

Here are some from a night out! Don’t feel like respecting a culture’s usual attire sacrifices the ability to look and feel good.

 

My rules also apply to men! Instead of the dresses — unless of course that’s your wave and you wanna keep riding it ? — opt for the same, light and airy pieces and nicer looking items.

 

 

Take Adrian for example:

 

And don’t focus on Erica’s facial expression ?

 

I hope this guide helped! I kept it as relaxed as Spain’s attire. You know I had to be strict with my Moroccan Style Guide because the dress code is very conservative and many people don’t know how to follow directions ??

 

Let me know if you’ve been to Spain and how your experience was! If you can shopping in Spain; they have such cute clothing stores!! These are my favorite:

 

 

 

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

 

Thanks for reading! ?

A Style Guide for Morocco: Do’s and Don’ts

OOTD + OOTN, Travel0

I would’ve never imagined in my wildest dreams that I’d have a chance to visit Africa! It still feels surreal and I’ve been back home from study abroad for over a month and a half now lmao.

In Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl. Yes, everything is blue!

Morocco is an interesting country, very different from America and even Europe. Something heavily stressed by my tour guide was attire, behavior and respecting customs.

As a visitor to a foreign land, you must respect that respective culture’s beliefs, values and customs. Disobeying these laws of the land can result in an uncomfortable time. You can be approached, possibly harassed. You can be scolded. Also, you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not appreciating and respecting the culture.

Morocco is pretty hot, so it can seem challenging to dress conservatively without suffocating or sweating too much. My biggest recommendation is wearing light fabrics and loosely fitting clothes. Morocco does get breezy, so light clothing will definitely make the heat bearable. As for shoes, wear something comfortable. If sandals are comfortable for you, go for that. If not, opt for sneakers. You WILL walk plenty. Wear a hat too and lather on some sunscreen. Comfort over style!

CONSERVATIVELY MOROCCAN

Conservatively Moroccan? Conservatively Moroccan.

My group was instructed to dress conservatively. Conservative meant no bottoms shorter than knee length, nothing too revealing and nothing too tight.

We so cute ?

Do wear native prints.

One way to dress is with prints and colors popular in the said country you’re visiting. Get the gist of how locals dress. What many people dubbed on the trip as “African pants” were a hit amongst the women. It looked appropriate paired with a solid tee. Pinterest is your friend. Be wary of cultural appropriation, though ?

My friend Pilar is a blogger and a lowkey model. She describes her experience with study abroad on her Instagram and blog. Check her out ?

As for men, one way to go is with wearing those prints in a shirt. A button up shirt with a solid tee under gives a a culturally and climate appropriate look.

Ma boi Vince is a photographer and videographer. He posted about his study abroad experiences, so check out his site and Instagram ?


Don’t wear sacred clothing items and accessories.

If you’re concerned about cultural appropriation, be mindful of what articles of clothing carry sacred meanings. Stray away from that. You can show appreciation for a culture without violating meaningful items.

The prints and styles pictured above are culturally sensitive and allow you as the tourist to be a bit more emerged into the culture. It’s a fun way to show appreciation. Many locals showed approval of these looks and smiled encouragingly. Many of us bought these items at thrift stores or from small vendors in Seville, Spain. Some people on our trip bought pants like these while in Morocco!

CONSERVATIVELY AMERICAN

It’s very easy to tell when a tourist is American and that isn’t necessarily a good thing. That carries the implication of being culturally insensitive or depicted as a fool. If you don’t feel comfortable going with the Conservatively Moroccan look, consider wearing what you wear back home in a way that’s culturally appropriate.

Do wear knee length shorts and normal fitting tees.

Knee length shorts and a tee that is not ill-fitting keeps you within your comfort zone and doesn’t disrespect Moroccan tradition. This tee isn’t too tight and doesn’t emphasize the body.

Women can dress the same way. Shirts shouldn’t be short and if they are above the waistline by any chance, pair them with high-waisted jeans.

Do layer clothing and tie long sleeved shirts or jackets around your waist.

Bringing a jacket or long sleeve shirt to layer is also helpful and a comfortable way to travel. If you feel like you might get cold or that your outfit needs extra coverage, you have easy access to it. Also, it can complete the look and make it more within your comfort zone. It’s better to have an extra layer of security just in case.

Do wear long dresses.

Ladies, consider wearing maxi dresses too because they surprisingly provide a lot of comfort and fresh air! Maxi style dresses can have a slit, and I think that’s appropriate because when you’re walking, it won’t be too revealing. Showing your legs isn’t disrespectful, and it’s another way to stay cool! Just be mindful that it isn’t a slit that shows your waist.

Knee length dresses are also acceptable and appropriate. As long as you don’t go high above the knees, you’re in the clear.

Do not wear short shorts, skirts, strapless shirts, revealing shirts and inappropriate dresses.

Aside from drawing unwanted attention to yourself, wearing revealing outfits is not accepted within Moroccan culture. Some girls on the trip made this mistake and it was uncomfortable to watch how locals would interact with them because of it. Men would try to huddle them or women would give disapproving looks. If you can wear it clubbing or can’t wear it around your grandma, don’t wear it in Morocco!

HATS AND HEADDRESSES
This was something I was hesitant about, but locals encouraged it. They eagerly tried selling head scarfs and hats to any tourist that walked by.

Do wear hats and headdresses sold locally.

If you’re considering wearing a headdress, I suggest that you buy it from the locals and ask them how to wear it. You would be giving back to the culture you’re partaking in and learning how to appropriately rock the look.

They even taught my group how to wrap the headdresses in multiple ways to fit in. It was pretty interesting and the locals helped you even with head garments you didn’t purchase from them.

My friend Cathy is a model and singer. She looked amazing every day and posted about it, so go check her out on Instagram ?

 

Do not mock the hats and headdresses and wear it to ridicule the culture.

As long as you wear the item while being mindful of its tradition and don’t violate any sacred meanings, you’re in the clear ✅  Wearing these headdresses to fit a stereotypical look is wrong; learn and respect the culture rather than looking like them to make a joke out of it.

What do you think of my friends’ and I’s style in Morocco? What do you think of my tips, and would you visit any part of Africa soon?!

Let me know how you feel about these style guides and if you’d like more!

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?

My Study Abroad Experience!

Travel0


I’ve been mentioning study abroad a lot lately, so I figured that I’d share my experience with you all! That gif totally represents the 5 flights I took lol ?

I announced that I was going on study abroad a bit before my trip, but I never went into detail.

For my advertising major (I have 2 and my second one is fine arts), I decided to participate in my university’s Communication + Media program to take the capstone class. That’s my last class. I thought I should end my advertising major and begin my advertising career with a bang ? I also wanted to interact with new people and gain unique experiences, like the dorm life I never got (I’m a commuter ? ).

I officially decided that I wanted to go last summer and saved up a lottttttt ever since.

The study abroad program was 3 weeks in Spain, with 3 days in Madrid and the remainder in Seville. I stayed an extra 5 days to go to Paris, France. A weekend during my program featured an excursion to Morocco.

HOW I PREPARED

My priority was saving money. Scholarships were offered, but they’re not guaranteed to whomever applies. I saved up about 75% myself and my parents supplied the rest (thank you ?).

My flights (Miami to Madrid, Seville to Orly and Orly to Miami) were $800 in total. The trip was a little over $3,000 for my tuition and everything in Spain but lunch and dinner. I brought a grand to spend. My Morocco trip was about $200. My France trip was about a grand. My overall trip was about $6,000. It may seem hefty, but I was traveling for a month, took a class, visited 3 countries and had a once in a lifetime experience with amazing people ?


STRANGERS OR FRIENDS?

I signed up for this trip without knowing anyone. I was excited nonetheless because I sought a unique experience. I’ll be honest; I judged everybody pretty hard lmao. I had to because I was going to be living with these people for approximately a month.

It turned out that the people I was least worried about were the ones I should’ve judged harder and been wayyy more careful with ?

Gradually, everyone got along and we seemed to be all meshing well together for the trip. Once in Spain, everyone’s true colors came out and things got better and worse ?

Dealing with new people can be frightening, but everyone turned out to be delightful for the most part.

CULTURE SHOCK LOL

The next biggest experience was the culture. Spaniards are very laid back. They have siestas and don’t feel the sense of urgency ingrained into every American. I said “lol” because even the laziest members of the trip were frustrated with Spain’s level of chill.

Conversely, this chillness even applies to laws. You can’t expect the standards from the U.S. Customer service, habits and even hygiene is very different. I’ll elaborate this per country in separate, detailed blog posts.

Another huge culture shock was the food. It was hard to get rice anywhere ??? I’m Hispanic; I need water, shelter, oxygen and rice to survive. Wait till you hear about this in the Spain blog post lmao.

WHAT NOW?

I left study abroad feeling energetic. I bonded with many people and I still talk to them today; they know who they are and they might even be reading this post ?

I feel less anxious about doing things outside of my comfort zone. I’m less afraid to talk to strangers and be myself. I’m eager to experience new cultures and view things beyond my imagination. I’m also empowered to pursue a lifestyle that allows me to travel and do what I love.

I think that everyone who can afford study abroad should do it without second thoughts or any doubts. It’s something that’s life-changing. You’ll be presented with both good and bad experiences that test you and inevitably change you.

Aside from meeting new people and visiting new countries, I got to view my career in an international perspective. That’s unique knowledge I can bring with me into the workforce. An investment like study abroad should be worthwhile not only for your pleasure, but for your career.

If study abroad isn’t possible for you or unavailable for your major and you wanted a coordinated trip, consider saving up for over a year and trying out EF College Breaks. It’s a similar concept to study abroad without the class.

I said at the beginning of the year that 2017 was my year and it definitely has been. I made this dream come true with a $9/hour part-time job. If you can dream it, you can do it ✨

Be sure to share your thoughts on my posts with me in the comments below or on my social media pages: yolauralikesbeauty on Instagram and Facebook; yolauraisfierce on Twitter.

Thanks for reading! ?