Saturday, July 24, 2010
Flo's Crab Shack Is Where It's At
Yesterday's total: $39.14.
New friends: Faber (last time I saw Faber, he was 2....now he's 21) and his friend Samantha.
Breakfast was a fabulous Egg sandwich at Dolce Vita, in Providence... on a Portuguese muffin....with a cup of coffee. Tip included--$8.14. (Don't have groceries yet.)
So, my girlfriend Tamara and her Mom, Nancy.... were so warm and receptive when I arrived here, In North Kingstown, RI.
I had plans to couchsurf with a (very nice) stranger....but, once we got to hangin' out---I just couldn't leave. I was having too much fun :).
We went to this fantastic little place in Newport.... down by the water called Flo's Clam Shack.
Wednesdays are the night when they have all you can eat crab legs for $15 (including tip). Served in a bus tub, with lemons and melted butter on the side. But, the crab legs are so fresh, I felt like butter and lemon would have spoiled them.... We took turns buying $16. (including tip) pitchers of beer.
We (6 of us) went through 3 bus tubs of crab legs, while we listened to 3 white guys in Hawaiian shirts perform everything from MJ to Classic soul, to....Outcast (which was hilarious). See video at end of entry...
We went to downtown Newport afterwards for one drink which my friend's beau was sweet enough to buy for us.... then came home and indulged in my lo-fi bar to go, over a fire and some guitar. What a great night it was.....
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Today's total...+$120. -$140.= -$20.
New Friends: All 4 of my friend's dogs.
Woke up today and did 2 women's haircuts and 1 men's. Including tip, I made $120.
I then turned around and spent it on some on groceries, a cooler, a pillow, blanket and medicine---because I woke up today feeling like my body wants to be sick. $140. Doing my best to avoid it, as of now. Clean food, water water water, vitamin C, no drinking and I plan on turning in early tonight.
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Didn't turn early. Still awake...but I do feel better already and I didn't spend money on anything but groceries ($20. After haircuts) :).
Nancy took me to dinner at Anthony's. I had the fish and chips. It was caught today, and battered in something heavenly. Again--no "help" necessary (sauce, lemon etc.) She said if you wanna try Fish and Chips how it's supposed to be done, Anthony's is the place. It's a walk-up and order, laid back and delicious dive. Highly recommend. Located in Middletown, RI.
Last night at Nancy's then back to Providence to stay with some chefs :). They have invited me to join them for a 10 course tapas feast. Pretty excited!!
Tomorrow morning: The Newport Mansions.
P.S. Ok, Ok. I had 1 glass of Pinot Grigio with my fish. Big deal.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Fist Pumping In Federal Hill
Location: Providence, RI. Neighborhood: Federal Hill
Today's Total: $139.35.
New Friends: The bald bouncer guy at Smoke, The front desk girl at Dolce Villa
In this particular blog I will discuss money and truth. It is designed to be helpful, hopefully--- rather than just gauche...because I want you to feel like you can take trips too.
I often jump without a net, and you can too.
Book one way, then make some mo money and book the way home (You'll find a way if you buy a non-refundable ticket to a place far from home ;)). Baby steps. THEN, make some more money, and book a car....etc...etc...etc. Start over a month out, if you can...better rates, more time to come up with a plan.
The interwebs is THE SHIT. Shop around, but when you see an affordable option....NAB IT. It will likely be 50-250 more expensive the next time you look it up.
Priceline, Expedia, Craigslist, Couchsurfer.com....etc... are budget travel friendly sites.--Google "Trips on a shoestring budget" and see what comes up.
I started this blog because I couldn't find one exactly like it :). Honesty, 4 letter words, drinking, smoking, spelling it out, open about money. Y'know? BOTTOM LINES? I'm into that.
You can't say "This is in a shitty part of town" on a rental listing---but I can say whatever the fuck I want to on this: The Irreverent Traveler. It's not The Respectful Traveler, or The Sensible Traveler, or The Regular Tom Dick And Harry Traveler, after all.....
Without further adieu....
Getting here was a task today.
You try to take 3 weeks worth of stuff somewhere and avoid an extra baggage charge. And I was even skimpy. 4 pairs of shoes people!!!
My main suitcase, which I have lovingly named "Haas", weighed in at an unacceptable 66lbs.
--The cutoff is 50lbs when flying Southwest. I had to "redistribute" the 16lbs. I was able to somehow squeeze it all into my carry-ons. The nice man at the counter let my 5lbs discrepancy slide this time. I tipped him $5, for saving me $50.
You get to check 2 bags, and carry on 2 bags (One small enough to fit under the seat).
One of my bags that I checked was a guitar. Haven't played yet....but I'll let you know if it got screwed up pressure-wise.
The baggage headache was made obsolete by the sweet flight attendant's free party cup filled with Dewar's on the rocks: A perfect nightcap after a long day of flight. Thank you, whoever you are.
Cab ride from the airport to Federal Hill....$36. including tip. OUCH. My car isn't ready until tomorrow.
I arrive at Dolce Villa. With a million suitcases (4) in my little flip flops and cowboy hat. It was indeed the adorable building in the picture...but you can't HEAR pitchers. And these pictures don't include the area's inhabitants.
I was instantly whapped in the face by one of my favorite Jersey Shore hits, "You Know I Wowntcha"(see video). I was surrounded by people who definitely have PREMIUM tanning and workout memberships. And who have no qualms with donning short sequin skirts and stilettos on a Wednesday.
Ok, ok I thought---When in....Hell.... Do as the hellions do (without the uniform). So, I checked in, dropped off my closet to-go and decided to attempt a blend-in.
HEH.
The large bald bouncer at Smoke was very sweet and informative.
After he guessed I was from somewhere else, and asked where....he recommended I check out Olive's...which I indeed might do during my stint here in Rhode Island (although...it also doesn't look like I would fit in undetected as a foreigner)..... But, he said they have live music--and I am curious what this part of the country thinks that is.
2 Coors Lights, 2 shots of Jamesons: $22.25 + 4 dollar tip= $26.25.
Glad I got my first fiscal mistake over with.
My earnest intention is not to repeat this careless mistake. Per diem has been affected. But,....what can I say?? I had "new in town" syndrome...and my Summer resolution is to stop beating myself up when I do things that are stupid....because that doesn't undo anything :). No looking back.
Thank heavens for my fabulous white on white on white room, complete with 2 bedrooms, full kitchen, huge bathroom, living room and 3 cable infested televisions= $72. Popcorn, biscotti, and delish coffee included. Booked it through Venere.com. (The cheapest quote in Rhode Island for a Boutique Hotel).
Tomorrow, Ocean Drive...with a girl I've known since Jr. High.
P.S. I have had 4 cigarettes today :). That is good for me.
Goodnight.
Monday, July 19, 2010
The Bitch Is Back......
As I pack my bags with high end cigarettes and low end plastic travelers of liquor....I am reminded of the freedom that travel masquerades diligently. So far, in my life it is an illusion of freedom indeed---but I like it anyway. Though for now, I have to come back for shows, family, friends, real estate and obligations...I long for a time in the future when I do not. Have to come back.
A little bit of fear and a little bit of money both provide an excellent opportunity for growth through experience. I look forward to this adventure, and I can't wait to take you people with me.
The last solo road trip through the Southwest was eye opening, and (ahem) sensually liberating. Let's see if the Northeast has anything to offer besides tea, mittens, and lighthouses......
I will be checking in each day, to lightly cover, review, and deconstruct the day's events...restaurants, bars...and people. I also hope to get my crappy ass camera rocking, in order to rile up the Irreverent Traveler's youtube.....
Stay tuned,.....I bet we'll both learn something about how to travel like a person who hates tourist attractions.
Until we meet again.....
Bon Voyage.