Melissa Maples

I don’t know, I became obsessed with Bangkok a while back after seeing various things on the internet about it… and it’s a great travel idea for us because my boyfriend doesn’t need a visa to go there.

My mother is from Ludwigsburg, so I’d like to visit all the places she’s told me about and see a glimpse of what her childhood was like.

I’m actually German (i.e. my parents are German), so it makes sense to visit Germany. Oddly enough, I’ve been all around Europe but seem to have avoided Germany somehow.

This has been a goal of mine for as long as I can remember. Nine days on a train sounds like a dream vacation to me. No silly marching around museums and monuments like an idiot tourist… just sitting on a train and soaking up the culture like an idiot tourist.

I think I’m the only person who wants to visit Japan and yet hates anime and manga. I can’t stand the stuff. I’m just going for the food and the culture shock, though I’m a seasoned traveler and not much surprises me anymore.

We actually lived in Vegas when I was a tiny baby, so of course I don’t count that because I don’t remember it. Everyone I know who goes to Vegas says it’s amazing, and I want to experience it firsthand.

Tokyo is probably at the very top of the list of places I’m most eager to visit. I can’t wait to go!

I lived in England for six years, so if anyone wants any travel advice, I’m happy to help.

Half in Europe, half in Asia… I guess the metaphor is obvious for those travelers who are torn and have some introspection to do. Istanbul came to me at a crossroads in my life, and if you’re looking to settle a score with yourself, this is the place to do it.

The last time I was in San Antonio was 2003, and previous to that I hadn’t been there in five years. It’s changed a lot, but it’s still my home, and it still has that hometown feel to it.