Author Archives: smariehs

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About smariehs

I'm a Certified Pilates Instructor, Registered Holistic Nutritionist and the founder of The Sleepy Pineapple! This is site is dedicated to all my travels- past and present! #travelbackthursday

Stouffville, Ontario

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I know I set this blog up to show my travels, but sometimes we get so caught up in faraway places that we forget the beauty in our own backyards. This past weekend I went to the Maple Syrup Festival at Bruce’s Mill in Stouffville, Ontario. It was a lot of fun, we took my two young cousins and it was nice to get outside (especially after this brutal winter we’ve had) and do something different. I came home with sun on my face and campfire smells in my hair; it was just what I needed. Personally I still can’t wait for summer, but once in a while winter’s whiteness makes a gorgeous backdrop for photos like this and days like that.

March 7, 2014

Bruges, Belgium

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I chose this picture for two reasons: one is that I quite like it, and two is that I quite enjoyed meeting those guys in it. I had just come from Amsterdam and was feeling pretty sick (a theme on this trip, unfortunately). I had just heard so much about Bruges from friends that I squished in a two day stop. I tried to do a bit of sightseeing the first day and wandered around the city centre. I was so drained though and didn’t last too long, before stopping to eat. Afterwards I decided to go back to my hostel and rest a little, but it was so sunny and warm, I opted for a beer on the patio. That’s when a slightly creepy situation occurred with a drunken customer talking a bit too intently with me, made me move inside where I felt safer. It was that move inside that led me to meet a new friend, a young local guy. I ended up chatting to him and his friend most of the night and we made plans to meet the next day. Early the next morning, we met at the hostel and spent the whole day together with two of his buddies. It was rainy and grey but we still had a lot of fun; they showed me around town and gave me lessons on local food and beers. I also got them go up the Belfry clock tower which, despite them living there, they had never gone up. We also went to the Saturday market where one of them bought a live chicken! “Chicken”, as I named it, got us a lot of weird looks from passersby and a lot of laughs. This picture above was taken at the windmills, which was really cliché but probably my favourite part. We finished the day with a group dinner, and some more beers (when in Belgium…). I called it a fairly early night though, as I was headed to London in the morning and wanted to be rested. Bruges is an adorable and quaint little city and definitely worth seeing. For me though, those boys in that picture are what made it a great stop on my trip.

August 23-25, 2013

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

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Seriously, pictures do not even come close to the real sight that is, Giant’s Causeway. It is breathtaking, incredible and completely unbelievable. Until you actually see it for yourself, it’s hard to really comprehend how a place like this can exist without being man made. Each column has 6 sides (some more or less) and those columns differ in height; creating a sort of step like appearance. The stones stretch out quite a distance along the bottom of the cliffs and disappear into the sea. When we were there they were filming a movie, so part of the area was closed off. The film crew was also in the middle of a lot of my scenery photos, unfortunately. It was still a great experience though and definitely a must see! I opted for a tour that also took us through the Bushmills Distillery, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, which was a convenient way to travel around Ireland. Beware, as a day trip from Dublin (which is what I did), it was a long day of approx. 12 hours. I wouldn’t have changed a thing though; I had a wonderful time and made a new friend. I met a lovely woman, also travelling alone, and we chatted the whole time. I even helped her to conquer a fear of heights by crossing the bridge and as a thank you she sent me a spoon from Belfast, for my collection (yes, I collect spoons). It was unnecessary but very thoughtful and touching. I made a few friends while in Ireland, maybe it’s due to that luck they keep talking about over there?

September 2, 2013

Malta

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I’m still at a loss why more people aren’t aware or intrigued by this beautiful little island. Every time I mentioned it as a destination on my trip, people wondered why and some even asked where it was. So for those who don’t know; Malta is a tiny island off the coast of Sicily and is made up of 3 islands including Gozo and Comino. It has an amazing history (I’ll touch on that at another post) filled with pre historic temples, knights, war and is definitely worth learning more about. I can’t even remember when I first learn about Malta, that’s how long I’ve wanted to visit. Unfortunately, I became really sick the night before my flight. I was in Madrid and had been feeling a little off since Barcelona, but then I woke in the middle of the night with full body aches and chills. I made it to Malta the next day and basically showered and went to bed. Not wanting to waste my stay, I ventured (sick and all) to the beach the next day. I stayed at a great little hostel near St. Julian’s but the beach of Ghajn Tuffieha was apparently a must see. I ended up on the bay beside it because it’s a little confusing unless you ask, but Golden Bay is lovely too. I bought some snacks and lots of water and I laid on that beach all day long, cooling off in the water when needed. I slept a bit, I read a bit and I relaxed. After a lot of go-go-go, I definitely needed it. I can’t even properly describe the peace I felt there, surrounded by the cliffs of the bay, the sun overhead and the beautiful water. The scenery is rustic and worn, making it feel more like a far away land. However, there is charm that’s indescribable. The beach front restaurant made a great environment for a satisfying dinner and the next day, I did the exact same thing. From the hostel it was a short walk to a bus that took me directly to the beach, so over all it wasn’t a lot of effort. Half way through my week in Malta, a friend from back home came to visit. I knew I had to be in better shape for her arrival, which is why I chose to do nothing for the first few days. The owner of the hostel was amazing too, she answered all my questions (which were a lot) and even let me hang out during the day while I waited for my friend (kind of rare in the hostel world). The next few days were much more eventful, which just goes to show you; Malta has something for everyone. I can’t begin to mention everything there was to see and do, during this one post; so I’ll leave that for another time.

September 14-20, 2013

Bilbao, Spain

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Here’s another one for the dream come true category! The Guggenheim was another building I had studied for school and I desperately wanted to see it on that trip back in 2010. Unfortunately, Bilbao was too far out of the way so we were only able to do Barcelona. This time around, I made sure to get there! It was actually difficult to fit in because there were only 2 trains to Madrid per day, and my connecting flight out to Malta was set due to price. I ended up arriving at 10:00pm in Bilbao and had to walk 1km to my hostel. I also had to use my data to download a map because nothing was open and I had forgotten when I had WIFI, which cost me about $60 back home! Note to self: never again. EEK! I was probably asleep by midnight that night and was up the next day, dressed, packed and out the door, by 7:30am. I was so tired but excitement took over. I’m so happy I was so early though, because I got fantastic shots (like the one above) without any people in them. I really took my time and saw all the exhibits and art possible, including the outside. By the time I left, the whole place was buzzing and the sun had come out. It was so neat to see how the building changed and shimmered in the sunlight. It’s really an architectural masterpiece; it was amazing to see and to learn more about the construction. Afterwards, I found a delicious restaurant to have lunch that was an all you can eat salad bar, but with hot food and dessert too (sorry I forget the name, but if anyone knows it, please comment). I then city mapped nearby sites and found an adorable little park and courtyard, which I strolled around for awhile. I wish I could have stayed longer because I know Bilbao has so much more to offer. I’m content though; I set out to see the Guggenheim in Bilbao and I did. My train left at 5:00pm that evening and I spent the night in Madrid, so to say it was a whirlwind is accurate. The travelling probably caught up to me because I came down with a horrible cold that same night, but that’s a story for my Malta post.

September 12-13, 2013

Base Flying and Bravery in Berlin, Germany

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My European adventure was just that; an adventure. I didn’t intend to go for so long but it took on a life of its own. What’s funny though, I never once considered asking someone to come along. I’m an only child and can independent to a fault; but I also tend to be a pushover, not wanting to rock the boat. This was my dream and while I was terrified to be a female alone in a strange place; I didn’t want to compromise, not on this. I chose every place I went and every site I saw, creating my perfect trip. Also, the dork in me had planned about 90% of it before I even left Canada. I’m a planner though, it’s who I am, and I don’t know if I would have been able to relax had I not set it all out prior. Having that structure, allowed me to feel secure while I ventured out on the bravest journey of my life and tested myself in ways I never had before. I started out being very claustrophobic, afraid of open water, talking to strangers, and heights. Berlin is where I conquered one of those fears! I had already tackled the chatting and swimming (I’ll tell you about those later); but this day was the most alive and exhilarated had felt in years! I was riding on a tour bus at the end of a long day of sightseeing on my last day in Berlin, when my guide pointed out the Park Inn Hotel. He (mistakenly) told us bungee jumping was available from the 37th floor and having always wanted to try, I got off at the next stop. After a quick pep talk from my mom, I made my way to the hotel where I learned it was, in fact, something called base flying. I couldn’t think about it or I would have backed out. I paid my money, signed the waiver, took the elevator to the 37th floor, harnessed up and did it. You hover above all of Berlin for about 5 seconds, before dropping (attached to a rope) to an awaiting attendant, 410′ or 125m! I screamed until my breath ran out and afterwards I couldn’t stop shaking, but I also couldn’t stop smiling. I had done it and my mom was right, it reminded me I was alive.

“Bravery occurs when the desire to do, outweighs the fear.” –Me

August 17, 2013

Copenhagen, Denmark

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I was reminded of this place just today by the repost of one of my photos, not that I could ever forget it. I can honestly say I had the funniest experiences of my whole trip here and made a friend I hope to keep forever. Like I said before, people can make a place and the introduction of a certain Australian girl did that for me! We met on the bus heading to our hostel when we both asked for the same stop. After getting lost a bit, we found our hostel, checked in and decided to meet for happy hour; which started an inseparable few days and inspired numerous stories. This is also where I learned about City Maps offline app which saved me consistently the rest of my trip. Our first night we met two American boys and after a few drinks, decided we should go see this area called Christiania. This is not a place you should EVER go to at night; it’s governed by itself and basically is a free zone for drugs (during the day it’s fine). We did not know this going in, but after an intimidating moment of being circled by a very agitated woman we thought it best to leave. Of course we wanted beer for the road and wound up inside a building that can only be described as a mafia headquarters. After thanking them for not killing us and an incident with a man impersonating a zombie (not intentionally or for fun) in the bathroom we finally got the hell out of there. Later, we stumbled upon a young Italian guy singing on the street. We watched him for a long time (he was really good) and I even sang a bit of “Wonderwall” with him. Another musician came along and a bit of a jam session broke out, it was really fun. The random things you encounter are what make travelling so amazing!
The next day we made it to see famous “The Little Mermaid” statue commemorating Hans Christian Anderson and had a wonderfully delicious meal by the harbour. We also saw Amalienborg (the palace) and Tivoli Gardens. I love the ominous photo of Amalienborg with the dark clouds overhead, one of my very favourites. It was a relaxing day of sightseeing and shopping; something we both needed at this point (especially when we both came unprepared for the cold). Our hostel offered free dinner and you had to be early to get a seat, so we headed back and got cheap beers at the convenience store to kill time. This is where I learned to check the alcohol % on labels, because 4 beers later we were drunk! Honestly, it’s a blur but I remember playing darts with hardcore locals and getting schooled. Her brother came the last night and the three of us had a blast. I laughed so hard the whole time! Tip from our hostel and very accurate; the best view is from the top of Our Saviours Church, which spirals outside 360 degrees. Overall, it was one of the best places I visited and that is in large part to the people I met. I wouldn’t want to go back though; but only because it was too much fun the first time around!

August 18-21, 2013
Photos are of Nyhavn Harbour, Amalienborg and outside entrance of Christiania.

Giverny, France

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I happen to really like this photo. It was taken at Monet’s house in Giverny, France. This is one of the places I had always wanted to go, so while in Paris I made a side trip. Turns out it is not the easiest place to get to from Paris, with regards to train timetables and connections. I had only half a day so I went very early in order to make the first bus connection to the house, ended up meeting a girl from Korea and sat for close to 3 hours in a little cafe. There is a market on Saturday morning I wanted to go to but ended up not for fear I’d get lost (something I am good at). All hopped up on cappuccinos, we caught the bus and took it all of 10 minutes to Monet’s house. It’s a bit of a walk from the bus drop off and people boogie to be first. The line up was long but luckily I had pre-purchased my ticket and went right in. I only had about an hour and a half at this point before for my train back to Paris so I did rush a bit but I got to see it all. His house is quaint and pretty inside (no pictures allowed) with gorgeous views of the garden. That garden was so special; I’ll probably do another post just on flowers in it. La piece de résistance, for me, would be the pond with its water lilies, weeping willows and bridges (yes I took a picture on one). His home inspired so many of his materpieces, it’s surreal to witness the beauty in real life. I was blessed with a perfect, sunny day to see the historic home of such a gifted artist and I feel special to have been there. Now, the story of my adventure to get back to Paris… I left with the intention of taking a taxi back to the train station; however I did not know to call before I left Monet’s. So after getting to the bus area and seeing no taxis, I opted to try and walk. That brilliant plan lasted 5 minutes as debris filled my shoes while I struggled down the side of a dirt road. I tried to get a hotel to call me a taxi but no one was around. About 10 minutes later, I stumble upon a restaurant with a bus outside; but again no one is around and it’s closed. Now I am panicking, convinced I will miss the train. Then a car pulls up. Inside is a woman, who happens to be the owners’ wife and her two daughters, I ask if she can call me a taxi and she offers to drive me. This is the only time in my life I ever hitchhiked (if you’d call it that). She owns a B&B in a neighbouring town and was so friendly and sweet. They saved the day because I made my train and got back to Paris in time. I am so grateful to her. On a side note, the nearest station is Vernon; that happens to be the inspiration of some of Monet’s paintings. One such painting my dad had hanging in our dining room since I can remember, and even though it looks nothing like that now, it was neat to be there in person.

June 15, 2013

Monte Carlo Casino

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This was a great day! I had been out the night before at High Club in Nice and watched the sunrise on the beach, getting home just past 7:30am. I had planned on going to Monaco the following day and somehow the next morning I headed out, slightly hung-over and all. One of the bus stops will let you off just in front of the world famous Monte Carlo Casino and that’s where I started. I had seen the outside before during that trip in 2010, but had yet to be inside. It’s an intensely extravagant place and walking up you see car after car of Rolls- Royce, Bentley and other fancy sports cars. The Hotel de Paris next door is frequented by the very rich and hosts many parties and events. I saw a party there once on the terrace and the dresses these woman wore made me beyond envious! I tend to be nervous when I feel out of place or uncertain if I am allowed in somewhere, I had seen tourists going in and knew it was probably okay and I desperately wanted to see inside Monte Carlo; so I gathered my courage and walked right up those steps and went inside. I didn’t go to gamble, I just wanted to see it. Unfortunately pictures are not allowed inside, but I can tell you it’s gorgeous. The details in the carpet, ceiling (a stunning shade of blue, I can’t even describe) and decorations are exquisite. The bathroom even has a self cleaning toilet that rotates the seat and dries it after each use. Sections were closed off for a function of some sort and so I really only saw a small bit but I was happy nonetheless. I decided to get a drink at the bar and opted for a Aperol Spritz (my favourite) made with champagne at a staggering 19 Euros. It was probably the best one I’ve ever had! I made friends with the bartender and learned he was Italian (probably why his Spritz was so good) and that he travelled in each day from Ventimiglia, Italy. Coming to Nice from Cinque-Terre, Italy, I had passed through Ventimiglia so I knew of it and was surprised he travelled in each day (about an hour and a half). In total I was inside only an hour or less, but I felt really special and enjoyed myself a great deal. I just watched the people mingle about and gamble at the tables; drinking my Spritz. I’ll tell you about the rest of Monaco in another post but to this day, I will say, I have yet to see a place as glamourous as the area around Monte Carlo and the neighbouring Hotel de Paris.

July 27, 2013

Seville, Spain

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Oh, Seville; such a pretty place. The streets in the core are small and lively; filled with the smells of food and the chatter of people. I had a lovely time here just wandering around. I met a sweet girl in my hostel and we had so much fun drinking sangrias and talking at a nearby patio. As it was in most places, I wish I could have stayed longer and really have taken it all in. This picture was taken my second day while in Maria Luisa Park. There is an area with a small pond and tons of birds (of all kinds) sit in the trees, swim and wander about. Children were running around making the birds fly, and I waited very patiently for this shot. I probably stood half an hour, but it paid off; this is a favourite picture for sure. It’s also very symbolic of the freedom I felt on this trip and probably why I think its extra special.

September 7-9, 2013