Traveler Tuesday – Cat of For Two Please

Anyone who's motto starts with “eat like a pro…” is certainly someone I want to know! Of course, the second part of Cat of For Two Please is “travel like a pro.” and that she certainly does! I “met” Cat through Bloghouser, Jennifer of Coleman's Concierge and since then I've really enjoyed Cat's trips to Guanajuato in Mexico which had me changing my mind about a destination I was too interested in visiting before reading her posts.

At the moment she makes Calgary her home, a region of Canada I am not very familiar with, so I also enjoy when she isn't on a trip and exploring around town!

Let’s meet Cat!

[1] When and how did you become a traveler?

It all began when I was 5, when I moved to Penang, Malaysia from my home country, Taiwan. Living in Malaysia had made traveling especially easy because it is geographically close to so many countries. I remember the countless weekend road trips my family took to southern Thailand and the impromptu getaways to Singapore. Ah, the good old days!

I wasn’t exactly a traveler back then because I was brought along on those trips with my family. But these travel adventures have certainly planted in me the seed to explore the world (of my own free will) someday!

This globetrotting childhood has given me the courage to study abroad in Vancouver when I was only 16, to travel to Eastern USA on my own, and to move to Calgary (which I had not heard of or visited prior) after meeting my husband, Kev!

[2] What kind of traveler do you define yourself as?

I wish I were the go-with-the-flow type of traveler, but I tend to find myself over-plan trips. Whenever Kev and I travel, I will have all our days planned out, including what restaurants we’re eating at, what activities we are doing – on what day, at what time, how long it will take, how to get there…etc. All we need to do is follow the itinerary. Being organized usually helps eliminate stressful moments, but sometimes it makes me feel anxious, especially when plans go awry.

In terms of the nature of travel, I am drawn towards adventure activities and luxury experiences. Our most recent adventures include jetboating through Niagara Gorge’s Class 5 rapids and tackling the rugged mountain terrain in Guanajuato, Mexico on an ATV. After a full day of exploration, Kev and I love rewarding ourselves with a luxury hotel stay!

[3] What do you love most about traveling?

The opportunity to step outside my comfort zone! Pushing through these challenges makes me stronger and braver time after time. Also, it reminds me that I’m alive!

I never thought I would have the courage to stand on top of a towering skyscraper, but I did – on CN Tower. Ever since then, I’m seeking out opportunities to get my thrills and feel alive again!

[4] What do you dislike about traveling?

As much I love being organized, trip planning is my least favourite part when it comes to traveling. There are so much details you need to take care of when visiting a new destination. For example, you need to figure out how to get to a hotel, where to exchange currency, how to get connected to WiFi, how much time each activity takes…etc. All these little things added together can be overwhelming!

[5] Why should people travel?

The world is beautiful so go out and explore all these gorgeous destinations across the globe! Walk on a glacier in the Canadian Rockies. Swim with turtles in Gili Air. Or catch a stunning sunrise above the clouds from the summit of Haleakala volcano. The world will make your jaw drop!

[6] What famous person would you like to travel with?

Does Mickey Mouse count? Just imagine all the adorable pictures we can take together!

[7] Travel essentials – 3 things you always travel with.

1. Camera – I have this need to document everything!
2. Sheet Masks – to keep my face moisturized.
3. Slippers – to wear in the hotel room.

[8] If you’re a foodie, what's your favorite food city? Do you have a restaurant recommendation?

Paris hands down. Go experience yourself and you’ll know why!

Le Cinq, a 3 Michelin-starred restaurant inside Four Seasons George V Hotel. Every dish is an artwork and is guaranteed to tantalized your taste buds. More importantly, you'll develop a whole new level of appreciation not only for the French cuisine but also for the ingredients you eat.

[9] What's one location on your bucket list?

Portugal!

I have heard many people raving about its rich food culture and vibrant culinary scene. Pasteis de Nata, ginjinha, cozido à Portuguesa – oh my, Portugal sounds like heaven to me, and I can’t resist!

Cat's Lightning Round of Favorites

Airport: Seoul Incheon Airport
Mode of Transportation: Uber
City or Country: Maui
Travel Gear: travel adapter with USB port
Travel snack: Hawaiian Kettle Style Potato Chips
Book: Food Trails (Lonely Planet)
Movie: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants
Song: Auli'i Cravalho – How Far I'll Go

Thanks Cat!

You can keep up with Cat on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and of course on her blog. Wherever you catch her, I am sure you will enjoy her travel adventures!

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