Swamp People + Gator Bait

Every two years, the Creole side of my family reunites to reminisce our history, honor our loved ones lost, share laughs, and of course...eat! This year's family reunion brought us back to our roots in Louisiana. 

One thing we've never done is a swamp tour. So, my sister was determined that this year was the year we would take to the swamps! Booking a tour with Cajun Encounters, we boarded the Gator Bait with Captain Jonathan at the helm. Since the captain grew up in Slidell, Louisiana, he was no stranger to Honey Island Swamp and zipped through the channels.

The gator above, Bacon, was the first of many we saw. Apparently he got his name after eating an entire pig on a tour! We only fed him marshmallows; I don't think he was disappointed. In fact, all of the gators we saw loved those sweet puffs. Including Priscilla, the largest gator in the swamp who hadn't been seen in a couple weeks, but decided to break her dessert fast for a treat.

Captain Jonathan reminded us that it's been decades since a human was endangered by a gator. So, even though they fed close to the boat, we weren't so nervous. That is until he said something about if the boat capsized we'd be fine as long as we weren't wearing white because it looks like a marshmallow. Gulp.

My sister and step-mom watch the reality show Swamp People, so they had all the idioms like "Give 'em a headache!" and "Choot 'em!" in their pocket. But on the tour, we were only observing. Which I felt we had to remind the good captain when he tried to get giant swamp spiders to climb/jump into the boat!

In addition to alligators, spiders, beautiful scenery, and prayers not to capsize, we saw wild pigs. They were doing what pigs do best––munch. Some of them were pretty cute, especially the baby ones. I couldn't help but think of a time dré, her husband, and I ate delicious wild boar at a restaurant in downtown Seattle. Just being honest!

Overall it was a great tour. Poor outfit choice, but great tour. I definitely recommend that you take a break from the Quarter and head to our side of Louisiana for a tour. Maybe Priscilla will even come say hello.

xo | din

shirt | Mossimo

shorts | Express

sandals | Mix No. 6

din's Travel Notes

Be sure to check out the souvenir shop! There are several great products such as local cooking spices and honey, home décor, and gator meat! I snagged these two sticks and a fleur d'lis for my apartment. I've had gator meat before (now that's a funny video!), but these two are mixed with other meat so we'll see how this experience goes. Who wants to try with me?

Qatari Royale

The weather in the DC Metro area has been wild. Basically, all of California's rain has been rerouted here, meanwhile all the expected spring to summer drizzles are still occurring. I tried think back to when the weather was a little more steady (versus hot days, stormy nights) and I recalled my visit to Qatar. 

One of the many activities I did while in the Middle East this past March was attend the Qatar International Food Festival. Along with my dear friend, Stik, I watched a live cooking show, ate Arabic ice cream, gift shopped, and enjoyed the sun. Although I didn't participate, there was a sold out Dinner In the Sky experience, too. Very intriguing!

The man sitting above is a jewelry vendor. While he makes bracelets out of gum tree, he sings. Stik often sees and hears him in the souk, so she wanted me to hear his songs. (One in particular, but he didn't end up singing that tune.) What's interesting is that I purchased some bracelets from his son in the souk a day or so prior––I'll tell you about those soon! Together they have a very successful family business, I'd say!

xo | din

PxSx The dhows that are anchored are there for historical purposes. In their former life, these boats were used for sailing, fishing, or transporting goods.

cardigan | Staring at the Stars

maxi dress | Topshop

sandals | Mix No. 6

bag | Mossimo

[Reformed] Mallrat

These joggers are another purchase from River Island's Doha, Qatar location. Although it's possible to shop online, it was fun to actually visit one of the stores––yes, even though it was in a mall! I've definitely grown out of the "let's go to the mall" phase. (Growing up in central Washington, there really wasn't much else to do!) My preference is small boutique stores or shopping online. I'd choose either of these over a mall any day!

How about you? How do you get your fashion fix––malls or online shopping?

xo | din

If you grew up cruising the mall like me, check out this article from The Atlantic (Feb. 2015) on how malls in America are taking a shift.

bowler hat | boohoo.com
cardigan | H&M
tank |  Socialite (try this style)
joggers | River Island (Doha, Qatar)
heels | Jessica Simpson

photos | cindylou

Kite Beach

I brought home seashells from Kite Beach as souvenirs.

Gotta love the sandy beaches of Dubai! Last March while I was in the UAE, visiting The Beach was on my must-do list. Due to the time restrictions, however, I didn't have time to go! So, my sista-Stik and I made up for it by making a quick 20-minute stop at Kite Beach on our way to the airport. It was very family friendly, wonderfully clean, and definitely pro-tourist (hello bikinis!).

The water was cold, so I spent the majority of the time with my feet in the sand and soaking up the sun. It sure did agree with me, and I definitely could have stayed longer!

Hmmm, I see a girls' trip in my future...

xo | din

scarf | LOFT
tank | Mossimo
shorts | LOFT
sandals | Mix No. 6


din's Travel Notes
The fact of the matter is, two days in Dubai is too short. Especially if the itinerary includes a full day desert "safari" and another half-day day trip. Both of which are on the must-do list, so it's not a matter of cutting something out, but extending time to actually see this renowned city.

As I mentioned, I was headed to the airport to catch a flight to Doha, Qatar. Let me tell you, Fly Dubai was a dream. The crew was so kind, the seats were comfortable, and the ride was smooth. I will definitely fly with them again, and recommend you do as well! Just be sure that you change from your beach wear to an outfit that shows less skin (I changed into black skinny jeans in the ladies' room) once you land into Hamad Int'l Airport. Our authoritative friends in Doha aren't as lenient!

al ain

This past March while I was in the UAE, I took a trip from Dubai to Al Ain to see and feel the hot springs. It was my last full day in UAE and we had dinner plans back in Dubai, so we had to be quick! Who would have thought two girls from a UW Chem class would be road-tripping in the Middle East?

Once we arrived in Al Ain, the fourth largest city in the UAE, we didn't waste anytime taking our sandals off and soaking our feet in the natural hot water. It's said that the minerals in the water are good for the skin. Every 8-10 minutes, the pipes would burst with an out-pour of fresh, steaming hot water. Stik wanted to get out, but I made her stay. Pain is beauty!

Al Ain was also the closest I could get to Oman. We were separated by one big mountain, Jabel Hafeet. If we had time (and maybe extra reinforcements), we could have extended our trip to a third country. Bummer, I guess I'll just have to go back...

xo | din

dress | H&M


din's Travel Notes
Al Ain is very historical city. In fact, it's the birthplace of the UAE's first President (see my visit in the Wisdom Garden). There are many things to do in addition to The Spring such as Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum. We attempted to see this, but came on the day it was closed! Although The Springs were our main focus, I recommend planning ahead so that you can maximize your trip.

World's Largest Ego

Just like shopping in the souk was on my "Must Do" list, so was visiting the dancing fountain at The Dubai Mall. Before I left the states, my aunt pretty much told me I had to go with how much she talked it up! The Dubai Fountain is the world's largest choreographed fountain with shows every 30 minutes to a new song. It's situated at the world's largest mall and world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

So, do you think Dubai has the world's largest ego? Share your thoughts!

Oh, you might be wondering what song I heard. Believe it or not, it was Michael Jackson's Thriller. Heck yah! Although this isn't the exact performance (or view) I had, check out the wonders of the dancing fountain here. Ego or not, these folks really know how entertain at no expense spared! I had a blast!

xo | din

dress | Forever 21


din's Travel Notes
If you want designer, come to The Dubai Mall. This place is almost exclusive to it. Situated in a highly prominent area of Burj Khalifa (think Rodeo times 10), you will have access to the glamour, dining, and even entertainment! In my case, my friend and I attempted to see a famous Arab pop singer, but the crowd rushed the stage so they had to shut it down. Too bad!

The Souk

Before I went for a party in the dunes, I made a trip to the souk in Dubai. It was one of the items on my "Must Do In The UAE" list. It quickly became one of the experiences I greatly disliked! Walking through, I literally was on the beginning stages of an anxiety attack due to the vendors' persistence. What I mean is that if I so much as glanced at an item, the vendor would say, "You want this one?" Or, if I took a step, they would mirror it, then show me something and say, "You like this one? What color you like?"

I literally had to tell my friend that we had to leave. At least this was after I snagged these fun shoes and a few gifts!

xo | din

shirt | Topshop
shorts | LOFT
sandals | Steve Madden
crossbody | Mossimo
East Indian shoes | purchased from Najmat Deba Garments Trading (near Gold Souq)


din's Travel Notes
Shopping at the souk (or souq) is must-have experience when you're in the Middle East. Throughout these markets you will come across a lot of items unique to the area, several of which are handmade. Of course these are great keepsakes and gift options. As you walk through the market, keep in mind that vendors will promote their items to you. After all, they're there to make a living! You don't need to speak to all of them, but can at least show them a kindness by acknowledging them with a nod. And don't worry, not all souks are anxiety inducing! In fact, the experience I shared was unique to the souk in Dubai.

I didn't have the opportunity to shop at the souk in Abu Dhabi, but it wouldn't have been the experience I envisioned as it had recently been covered. (Think mall over open market.) My favorite souk experience––which completely redeemed Dubai's!––was the souk in Doha, Qatar. I'll share more about that in a coming post, as well as how to negotiate prices. Stay tuned!