My Bag's Not Packed; I'm Not Ready to Go

1. Accommodation: checked! I think I've contributed much to the IBIS franchise. By the end of my trip, I'm sure I'd have an IBIS experience. I'd be staying at IBIS throughout my trip, save for Mariazell; and that's only because there's no IBIS hotel there! IBIS hotels are not absolutely luxurious, but that's fine by me. I'd rather stay in a hotel with no frills than to pay more, really. Hostels and cabins are a big no-no to me after the Topdeck experience four years ago. Proper accommodation--one that will provide me with a kettle and hot water for bath--is absolutely vital. (By the way, I just learnt that Ibis is actually a large wading bird. Cool!)


2. Itinerary: checked! I have mapped out a route already but have yet to confirm the day/ night programmes with some tour agencies. This reminds me: I have to book the night Prague experience, ski trip in Salzburg, and mass in Vienna soon.

3. Winter clothes: long johns checked! gloves checked! parka checked! I'm missing some socks, scarf, (woolen) pullover, jeans (?), beanie (?). I heard from a friend that head-wear is actually very important in cold countries. I will have to get them soon... by next week!

Some cashmere and woolen long johns, ponchos and a vacuum bag, courtesy of momma.

My parka! Courtesy of momma too!

4. Footwear: Check! Kudos to my tiny feet, I managed to fit into some kid's sized boots from Timberland. So I ended up purchasing a pair of kids' boots, which costs $100 less than an adult's pair. It's absolutely great, since in all likelihood I won't be wearing the boots after this trip. I couldn't choose between this pair of boots


and this pair

After deliberating for half an hour (hahaha!), I decided on the former pair. I prefer its colour/ tone; and, it feels more comfortable. But I am slightly uncomfortable with the straps that run across the shoes. Strapping makes me feel as if I'm re-living the "Bata, back to primary school" days. Truth be told: I am still not sure if I should exchange for the latter pair. What do you think?

5. Backpack: Checked! I bought red and turquoise backpacks--one for me and the other for Dom. His birthday is in ten days! :) I can't decide which I prefer, so I'll leave him to choose which he prefers.

Yogi in a bag! I wanna bring this little dude with me to Europe because I know I will miss him! :(

6. Entertainment and Preparation: checked! Mom bought me an iPad for my birthday! Ooo la la! How awesome is that?! Initially, I wanted to bring a laptop to Europe so that I can record my travel experience when the day draws to a close. But I wasn't sure if bringing a laptop is a good idea since it's quite bulky and heavy. I guess this problem is solved with, voila, the iPad!

Look at the Apps I downloaded: guides to and maps of the cities that I'd be visiting! I even managed to find a Eurail timetable in the iTunes store! Now I'd have quick and easy access to the rail timings! yay!

I borrowed some architecture books to learn about the design of churches and buildings in Europe (haha, of course!), so that I'd be able to appreciate them when I'm there. Yes, there are also city guides to Budapest and Prague.

Once I finish reading these architecture books and city guides, I'll post some interesting fun facts on this travel blog. Meanwhile, I'll need to tie the loose ends of the trip, i.e. confirm some day tours and whats not.

Less than 3 weeks to go... :) *crosses fingers*