thinking out loud

November 5, 2014 hdoan3

If you told me a year ago where I would be now and what I would experience, I wouldn’t believe a single bit. My adventures abroad have opened new doors, giving me the opportunity to learn and grow as I go along. Now I know your eyes have already glazed over because, who doesn’t say that studying abroad or traveling to another country is life changing? I know I’m not different, however, everyone’s experience is special to him/her in some sort of way. That’s why, I hope that by sharing my adventures with you, you will be inspired to challenge yourself and dig deep to the root of who you really are.

I’ve gained a lot of clarity on this trip. Made new friends, strengthened old relationships, and learned to let go of what doesn’t serve me. It’s been a challenge (and believe me, those who I have complained to are fully aware), but despite my somewhat failed efforts to let everything go, I can say that I am learning to see the silver lining in most situations. If I were to take anything away from this experience, it would be that I have the most incredible support system and I am even more grateful than I was before to have such amazing people to be there for me.

My experience has served me in the best way possible. I am ultimately happy with the person I have become, and look forward to the future that I can make for myself. I can’t wait to keep traveling, learning, and growing to the point where my passion becomes my career. The American mentality is a tough pill to swallow–graduate, get a job, and that’s it for the rest of your youth. How will you know what you really want, when all you’ve been doing is following a path that most people take? If you have the opportunity, even if it’s for a month, travel! There’s so much to learn about yourself and others when you take yourself out of your comfort zone, and if anything it will give you the confidence to go in the direction of your dreams.

still on vacation

November 2, 2014 hdoan3

wow–long overdue post is needed from my trip to bali, byron, and everything in between! Bali was incredible, I would do anything to go back again someday! Here’s a rundown of where we stayed, what we ate, beached, and adventured on our 9 day trip x

Seminyak: hands down my favorite part of the trip. Seminyak is super busy, with tons of fun shopping and amazing food. We had so much fun roaming the streets popping into boutiques and checking out other local venues.

stay: Sahana Villas– we had the most incredible stay at the Sahana Villas! when we walked into our three bedroom private villa it was like walking into a Pinterest pin. the staff was incredible, always available and became family in just three days. the owners were also incredible hospitable, friendly, and made every minute of our trip enjoyable–we even went back to see everyone again on the day we left Bali! eat: MAMA San– AMAZING! the food is fresh and flavorful and the drinks are incredible. we went back on our last night before flying back to Sydney. definitely get the crispy pork, chow mien noodles and the fish cakes. you won’t be disappointed.

Sea Circus– a must. try the salt & pepper calimari and fish tacos. and since you’re on vacation, try a pitcher of the guava margarita–yum! La Lucciola– the most fresh, delicious Italian food paired with an incredible view of the ocean. carbs AND the beach? heaven! Cafe Bali-we went on our first night and it was great. great variety of fish plates, pad thai, etc.! Earth Cafe-great lunch spot. plenty of healthy options and some amazing raw/vegan desserts–less guilt!

drink: Potato Head, KU DE TA Ubud: after all the hustle and bustle in Seminyak, Ubud was a nice, quiet escape in the jungle. we had so much fun visiting the monkey forest, practiced yoga at Yoga Barn, the Batuan temple, rice terraces, and relaxed!

stay: Five Elements-just outside town, off the beaten path, lies the most incredible, spiritual and serene retreat. we loved our cabana overlooking the water (with an outdoor tub and shower!). the raw/vegan cuisine was exceptional, as well as the spa services. i tried an energy massage and soaked in a coconut milk bath while looking at the moon rise over the water–is this real life?? eat: The Yoga Barn cafe: the perfect pairing after a challenging vinyasa class. there was a wide selection of vegan dishes and sweet desserts. be sure to grab the coconut “bacon” at the checkout–it was out of this world!

Viceroy– on our way to Padang Padang, we stopped for lunch at the Viceroy. woah! it was incredible. the food was super fresh and delicious, paired with a ping pong cocktail! the most incredible part was the view overlooking the forest. if it’s in your budget, i would definitely stay in a villa at the Viceroy. the architecture and landscape are breathtaking, and the service is wonderful. Jimbaran/Uluwatu: stay: The Rimba at The Ayana– The Rimba was a great place for the ‘resort’ experience. truth be told, we didn’t spend too much time there. don’t get me wrong the resort was amazing, but we were in ‘villa’ mode and wanted to go see the quieter surf beaches. the perks of staying at either one of the hotels here is priority access to Rock Bar, which is definitely a must go! we watched the most breathtaking sunset while sipping on some drinks…i will never forget how beautiful that was!

eat: since we spent most of our time in Uluwatu, here’s some of our favorite places!

Buddha Soul– hands down, the best breakfast of our entire trip–we went both mornings (and for lunch too!) fresh juices, coffee, and the best omelet. lunch was just as great, laurie had an incredible coconut curry and we had a hand rolled sushi as well. you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

Single Fin– we enjoyed a wonderful lunch and sipped wine while overlooking the beautiful Indian Ocean for lunch and for the sunset. it was fun watching the surfers paddle out in the beautiful water. we spent the entire day there!

escape: Suluban Beach- after lunch at Single Fin, we ventured down through the rocks onto this little hidden getaway. it was a fun spot to watch surfers trek out and catch fun waves!we watched the beginning of the sunset from the beach and ended it up top (back at Single Fin) with Sangria and some yummy appetizers! Padang Padang Beach-the perfect end to a wonderful trip (before going back to Seminyak!) we went for two days in a row, venturing past the beach-goers and vendors over to our own little private hideaway in the rocks. definitely check it out. you won’t be disappointed!

a drop in the ocean

August 23, 2014 hdoan3

{photo by: Chris Slawson}

During my time home this summer, I got to watch my dog save baby sea turtles that were stuck in their nests. He would bring them to me gently, and watch as they slowly made their way out into the ocean. It’s such a beautiful sight to see–having this tiny, new-born creature instinctively make its way out into the ocean alone. Could you imagine, being tossed through waves into a massive, unchartered territory–but at the same time, instinctively knowing to do so?

It’s so easy to get caught up in a fast-paced lifestyle. I’ve always been the type of person to have a long list of things to do, going through every day with some sort of agenda. Ever since I went home this summer, I really started slow down and take the time to observe the little things that happen around me. I have taken that understanding with me to Australia, immersing myself in this new place while letting things come naturally. It’s been an amazing experience so far, and a lot of my appreciation and happy memories have come from the moments when I slowed down and really took in the moment.

There’s such a deep message that I’ve picked up on from watching the turtles this summer. It inspires me to open my eyes and immerse myself in the unknown, and to always know that home is there. I was blessed with support and guidance growing up, and I have so much appreciation for the foundation I’ve been given. Now, this is the time to go out and learn more about myself from being in new places, figuring out which direction to head as I go along. It is such an exciting point in my life, and I am so thankful to have this understanding with me as I continue my journey. I instinctively know that I am doing what’s best for me, and can’t wait to see what the future holds.

I’m going to miss this place…

May 6, 2014 hdoan3

Although I spend most of my time wishing I was home, at the beach with my friends and family, I really will miss Dallas! I just realized that I won’t be back until January, which means I’ll be gone for eight months! I can’t believe it… Here are a few things I’m going to miss about this place:

My favorite almond milk lattes at Number One Cafe in Highland Park. The atmosphere is so relaxing, and the people who work there are so fun to talk to. Not to mention, Chapter Two has the best coffee table books next door!

Adventures with my roommate, Kate. She’s always finding new places to go explore! This was our latest brunch trip to Oddfellows. You could say we were pretty hungry!

Roots. Juices. I don’t know what I’ll do without you! They always have the best Seasonal Smash, and the Go Green is the best green juice that won’t make you cringe! These are my all-time favorite cold pressed juices. You can sample as many flavors as you want!

The gluten free mushroom pizza from True Food Kitchen–the ultimate comfort food. This picture doesn’t do it justice, but it is a must try! Also, be sure to try the chia seed pudding, it will become your newest obsession.

Forty Five Ten’s restaurant, T-Room is a great lunch experience! The seasonal veggie quiche with the pecan-crusted chicken salad is the best. The restaurant and boutique make for a fun lunching date with friends. Make sure you make a reservation, and if its a beautiful day, definitely opt for the covered patio!

friday bulletin

April 25, 2014 hdoan3

Happy Friday everyone!

Only one more week of classes, then finals, and then I’m home to sunny South Florida! It’s been a challenging year, but I am so excited for what lies ahead! It’s easy to dwell on everything that goes wrong. Believe me, it felt like I was constantly being pushed down this semester. But when I look back, it was all a learning experience. I’m continuing to grow and learn what’s best for me, and am so excited to keep finding out more about myself. Instead of worrying about the future, I am focusing on what’s right in front of me–how cliche of me, but it’s true!

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!