Seeing downtown Brooklyn during the lockdown

Yes, I know going out is bad. We should stay at home. However, amazon takes forever to delivery groceries and target in downtown brooklyn is open. My food supply at home was running low. SO, I had no choice but to explore the wasteland known as epidemic lockdown.

The street leading to Barclays center photo couresty of Hugo Morel

When I got to the road that leads to the barclays center, I was still shocked. It hard to believe that the street where NBA games, music concerts and large events is this empty during daylight. The only time I saw this was during hurricane sandy. I watched it from home. A place usually filled with people and cars is now traffic less. It felt like I was in a horror movie.

Downtown brooklyn looking trafficless photo couresty of Hugo Morel

In case you don’t know, lockdown in new york city has been extended to the middle of June. Many people are becoming restless and are ignoring the lockdown. I’m not one of them, I’m only out to buy food. However, New Yorkers are known to not follow rules. This city’s character have always been like that. I hope another wave of outbreaks is not on the horizon. LA has already been closed down to August. Two of USA’s biggest cities are still closed. I can just hope this does not cause long lasting problems to the economy post lockdown. Only time will tell but we still have hope. That is something these hard times can’t take away from us. Unless, we let them.

Just outside of target photo couresty of Hugo Morel

Got to target and it was a mad house. I never seen a place so full before in person. The line started outside of the store just to get in. Luckily, it wasn’t too bad compared to what I have seen online. I got what I needed and it was time to go back home. Which felt like a cocoon at this point. As corny as this sounds, when this lockdown ends hopefully my “cocoon” will make me become a better person. *cringe alert*

Stay safe everyone and remember to wash your hands!

Check out our eBook “How to Travel for Dirt Cheap” by Hugo Morel for ways to make your dreams of traveling come true without breaking the bank. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07M848M47?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420&fbclid=IwAR0_mRF-eE9tODIshljVr7CQ8h6vKT6hHn_8gZfJ94DySY1ylPO2Itu2Qe

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

We have partnered up with booking.com and working on TripAdvisor. Here are some links for each hope you all enjoy!Here are links to hotels and other deals.For Hotels, make sure to click here. For apartments make sure to click here. For Resorts click here. For villas click here. For bed and breakfast and for Guest houses, make sure to click the links!

May 19, 2020 25

Value those who helped you

In these hard times, You have to reflect on the people that helped out on the road we call life. We all have been through some very tough situations. Unless, you are extremely lucky. We should all know those times when you needed help. Whether, it was early on in life, later or somewhere in the middle.

climbing helping team work , success concept

There were times, I had no idea what I was going to do with my life. I was sad and depressed about the future. Goals seemed like unrealistic dreams. I was very fortunate to have met some amazing people that helped me when I was down. I value them dearly, even if we don’t talk or aren’t on good terms. They will always hold a warm place in my memories. Those people saw me for me. A human who wanted to do something positive in live. They gave me a helping hand when I was hopeless and taught me skills that I would use for a life time.

During this outbreak, I lost a few of those people. Some I spoke to the other day, others a few years ago. Regardless of how close we were or how far apart we grew, that kindness is still there. That act of giving hope to humanity is still there.

In memory of Wend HU, my travels wouldn’t had been possible without the skills you taught me

You don’t really know how much someone does for you, until they are gone. I was a 22 year old straight out of college learning about zoning laws, liquor licenses and advertisements. Learned so many skills that I use on a daily basis. Thank you so much Wendy for everything you done. It was always with a smile on your face. Rip Wendy Hu, you will be missed!

Please everyone, stay safe. The hospitals are filled with sick people. Value those that helped and care about you. Remember to wash your hands with tons of soap!

April 11, 2020 13

Covid 19-Value your health

During these times, I want to keep everything on this blog positive. However, I will not give an illusion that everything is fine. I just lost a few people that I knew. One, helped me with skills I use on a daily basis. The others were so kind and would give the clothes off their back for someone.

As you all know, New York City is the epicenter of covid-19 in the Untied States. Most of my family lives here. My grandma, aunts and uncles have lived in the same homes for over 60 years now. New York City is part of my roots and a part of my history. It’s sad to see so much death here. Never felt like a New Yorker until now. Even with these times being hard, I have seen people volunteering to give food to the elderly. I haven’t been able to see my grandparents due to my travels. I was always worried about me bring a sickness to them. Knowing that people are out there helping the elderly gives me a sense of community. Remember there is always some positivity in dark times. Doesn’t matter what brought you into that dark tunnel. At the end of every tunnel, there is an exist.

So please everyone, don’t take these times lightly. For those who live in rural areas and less populated areas, this virus will still do it’s damage. Make sure to follow the rules of how not to spread it. Wish you luck and health! Please wash your hands before eating.

April 7, 2020 20

Light during dark times

As the number of covid-19 cases continue to grow around the world, we just want to wish you and your love ones health. Also, the random person down the street. These are hard times. However, we will pull through. Always keep a bright outlook even if everything is falling apart because you have the privilege to live another day. A lot people don’t have that.

Currently, I’m in the epicenter of the USA right now. The hospital nearby my home has been filled with confirmed cases. The death toll has risen like crazy in Brooklyn. The hospital near me had to get 4 refrigerated trucks to fill them with dead bodies because their morgue is full. This is no joke and this is not something to be taken lightly.

Let’s this be a wake up call to show you that people are all the same. Regardless of their political affiliation, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion or how much money someone makes. We are people first! United we stand divided we fall. From the small towns to the big cities, we will get through this together. If we were more honest to each, this virus probably wouldn’t grown into such a huge problem.

I have no fear because I know love always shine!

Much love and safe travels! Please keep clean everyone!! Wash your hands!!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

March 31, 2020 8

New york city during “lockdown” Being socially isolated

So, we are here. What feels like a movie, as if we are in the start of “I am Legend.” The world has made a semi-stop. New York City has felt the impact. The whole world is feeling this virus. Wheather by being sick, losing money or stuck at home. I’m here, in the USA’s biggest city. Trying to stay positive without being positive of corona. Sadly, I’m not talking about the beer.

In front of Bryant Park photo courtesy of Hugo Motel

I just couldn’t be stuck inside my home. I love being free. It almost feels like house arrest. Never actually experienced it and I never want to. Left my home to just get my mind off of things. It’s sadden me to what is happening. Never seen midtown New York City look so empty. There very few people out and walking.

Usually this street is packed photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Not sure if people are overreacting or this virus is really that bad. It’s crazy how I went to Wuhan and never got sick. Now, I have to worry about it at home. The irony is strong in this situation. Thought I dodged a bullet but now I need to be careful once again. While inChina, I was suggested by locals to go to the market in Wuhan where it all started. Luckily, I declined it.

Nyc Subway station being empty due to the corona virus photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Went underground to catch a train to get to another part of midtown. What really shocked me was the lack of people. This what a midtown station looks like after 3 am. I was there at 1 pm on monday. This station is usually packed at that time. This was 34th street pen station. Where you can catch all the trains! Crazy how lonely it looked.

Times sqaures photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Went to times Square, it was business as usual. There weren’t that many people as normally would be. However, that didn’t stop the street performers. Saw transformers break dancing. There is always something weird going on here. Let’s see what’s more to come of this.

Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

March 17, 2020 37

Merry Christmas from New York City! 🎄

As we open our presents on this day, I would love to show you all the beauty of New York City at this time. Going to NYC during Christmas time should be on everybody’s bucket list. Hopefully, my photos will capture this beauty.

The Christmas themed shopping photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Something about NYC captures the Christmas spirit. Maybe it’s the fact that I used to travel here as a kid around this time or just the beauty of the buildings. Either way, Im sure through the photos you can see how transparent the Christmas spirit can be. Or at least, you can see why NYC captures that spirit.

Looking at the decorations photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Been to Rockefeller park so many times during Christmas. I decided to go to the World trade Center this year to look around and take photos. Since, this place was rebuilt in recent years. I figured why not? It’s been opened for about 5 to 7 years now. Defintely, worth the subway ride.

The light tunnels photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Every year, they have a new design for Christmas. So it’s never the same. What you see in these photos will mostly only be seen this year. These are memories that are worth treasuring in your mind.

oculus world trade center entrance photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

It’s hard not to walk around with a smile on your face. Families from around the world enjoying their time with the decorations. The small carts selling gingerbread cookies and other Christmas goods. Sure, this is capitalism at it’s best; However, all the Santa post cards would make the child in you smile.

Freedom tower with Christmas theme photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and spend time with your love ones! Stay safe!!

Thank you so much for reading!!! Much love!

For videos about cultures of the world and to see our travels, subscribe to our youtube channel!

For my underwater photos, I use the gopro hero 7 white.

We have partnered up with booking.com and working on TripAdvisor. Here are some links for each hope you all enjoy!

Here are links to hotels and other deals.

For Hotels, make sure to click here. For apartments make sure to click here. For Resorts click here. For villas click here. For bed and breakfast and for Guest houses, make sure to click the links!

December 25, 2019 42

Enjoying the end of summer at Rockefeller Lake, Upstate New York

As summer comes to a close, sprinkles of fall hit us like strong pumpkin spices. Random days of a cool breeze mixed with days comparable to mid July. Had to face it, summer was almost gone. Back to wearing big coats and looking out for stepping on ice. Excited about Halloween and the pumpkin pies being just around the corner. I still couldn’t shake this feeling of not getting the most out of this summer.

small dock where birds gather photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Didn’t really to explore much this summer. In terms of going to Upstate New York. Did a lot of international flights these hot months, just didn’t explore my local surroundings. Truly love this state. From Manhattan to Cairo, New York, this state has something most states lack. Could never really put my finger on it.

close up of the dock photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Lived in California majority of my childhood. Also, lived in three different countries as a kid. However, none have my heart like this state. A place where you can have the tallest building in the country; yet, still be a few hours away from such a gorgeous place like this. Nature and city are actually my favorite places to be.

view of the lake photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I know California and other states are beautiful. However, not many can compare to this. This scenery pulls my heartstrings. The blue sky’s reflection on the water made me feel the much needed sense of peace. The fact that it is summer and everything is so green.

another view of the lake photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

The reason why I am up here was to escape from the city life. Sometimes you just need to relax and step back. No stress, no deadlines just me and the music that the planet earth makes. That’s when I can truly appreciate the creation of this small blue planet.

my favorite shot of the lake photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

My time here was almost up. Just did a day trip to escape. Would have to leave tomorrow in the morning. So, I made it last. Sat down to enjoy everything. That moment where you are lost in your head but still enjoy what’s around you. It was truly priceless. When you visit New York City, make sure to stop by and check out Upstate New York. I promise you, you won’t be disappointed.

took this photo while reflecting about going back to the city photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Thank you so much for reading! Decided to change things up a little this week. Will go back to learning about Afro-Caribbean culture next week. Much love and safe travels everyone.

September 25, 2019 20

Back to New York City: am I liking who I’m becoming? Post trip Blues

Coming back to my home base in New York city gets more difficult after every international trip. Unfortunately, I got a rude welcome when I returned home this time. Because of my looks, I had extra problems with the immigration officers. Since, I can pass off as a “terrorist” or “drug smuggler.” Of course, the jar of coconut candy looked too “suspicious” to the officers. Can’t blame them to be honest, they are just doing thier job. I got that candy from my time in little Africa, during my trip to Paris. So I was a little annoyed; however, everything checked out after some questioning and inspections.

Ps. I will be writing about my trip to little Africa during my time in paris. Keep on the lookout!

Nyc skyline at night taken by Hugo Morel

I love New York City to the fullest. So much culture, going to queens is like taking a plane ride to another part of the world. Being back home usually takes some time to get used to.

Waiting for the 7 train in queens taken by Hugo Morel

Eventually, you get so accustomed to being on the road. So much to a point, that post travel depression is a thing. Luckily for me, I have grown an immunity to it over the years. Although, when winter hits New York City, all I can think about is getting on the first plane to the tropics.

Still, coming back is always different. Same place and same atmosphere; however, I’m not the same. After ever trip, I come back a different person. These questions always comes back and haunt me. Am I liking the person, I’m becoming? Will my close friends and family members still accept me, the way I am now? Will my future lover dislike the person, I will slowly change into?

Another photo of NYC’s skyline taken by Hugo Morel

These are the questions, I always come back with after every trip. I just hope, I can continue to look at myself in the mirror. Currently, I’m genuinely happy because I know traveling the world is my life’s work. I can feel it in my heart. However, there’s a fear deep down that my character will be consumed by the constant travels.

Sunset over the manhattan skyline taken by Hugo Morel

I just want to stay true to who I am as a person and not forget where I come from. Not many people where I grew up become a contributing member of society. Especially, not someone with my ethnic background. I can’t help, but feel guilty at times. Why am I the lucky one that escaped? This is what goes through my mind, every time I return from a trip. I just hope, my hometown will accept me for who I will become. Also, that I don’t become arrogant and forget my humble beginnings.

Thank you for reading. Much love and safe travels! Next week, I will be taking over again. While, Tony and his wife are in Cuba. Meeting up with them soon! Can’t wait to write about cuba and share with you all!

To start your own adventures, check out the link below.

Check out our latest e-book “How to Travel for Dirt Cheap” by Hugo Morel for ways to make your dreams of traveling come without breaking the bank: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07M848M47?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420&fbclid=IwAR0_mRF-eE9tODIshljVr7CQ8h6vKT6hHn_8gZfJ94DySY1ylPO2Itu2Qe0

April 10, 2019 26

The Beauty of New York City

There’s a reason why I choose to live in the New York metropolitan area. As the “capital” of the world, you get access to pretty much any type of food from any culture.

Taken by Hugo Morel

Growing up in the San Francisco Bay, you do not get the access to all of the cultures that you do here in New York City. My family here would tell me stories about hanging out with thier friends from Mongolia and Turkestan. My cousin would tell me about how he used to get invited into thier home and they would cook him authentic exotic food. I was always envious of him growing up. We only had awesome Mexican food out in the Bay Area!

Traditional Mongolian dish by google

The skyline, the food and the culture is what really attracted me to this city. Truly love this city, as expensive as it is. I truly wouldn’t trade it for the world.

Downtown Manhattan taken by Hugo Morel

Being the capital of the world, the New York City metropolitan area has two international airports and one national. It has three airports in total. Being the traveler I was, I just had to move here. So much food, culture and possible airplane tickets.

Curry chicken with rice at a Jamaican restaurant taken by Hugo morel

The reason why I am posting about New York today is because we are going to start a series of food from all over the world that is found in New York City.

Be on the look out!

Thank you so much for taking your time to read this post. Much love!

December 5, 2018 42