Mumbai, the City of Dreams used to be in my head this historic city full a people, food, smells and temples. Well, I was not wrong but so far away of the reality of it. There is some much more to see and experience. This city has a life its own !
The little gay boy in me wanted to be in a Bollywood movie and I did ! Well, in Varanasi, but still a Bollywood production ! That will be in the Journey of Discovery of Incredible India !
The first time I saw it on TV, I felt it : I had to be there, experiencing it to understand to uniqueness of it. So I did. I went to explore it by myself. After for a good 4 days walking around, 47 hours of walking, 102 kms, two weddings and an outrageous number of selfies on Marina Drive, I have a list to offer you !
Remember if you need to manage your money and travel : Here is Journeylism ! Free & homemade tools experiences tested !
Wanting to visit Bombay for a good decade, I finally reached it after a long train ride from Udaipur, ready to emerge myself in the craziness of Mumbai !
I decided on 15 places where you can see, and experiencing the best of Mumbai !
So It Goes
The Siddhivinayak Temple is a masterpiece of architecture, religious and cultural representation. A wonderful day trip to feel the devotion.
The Gateway Of India is probably of symbol of India. Its past, and its futur, close to the Taj Mahal Palace, this is the piece I wanted to see.
Hali Ali Daragh represents the best of Indian muslim culture. A family, historical place to eat, wonder, and meet to most diversity in the city. This gorgeous mosque is a must, and the walk is amazing.
Marina Drive is a long walk in the south of Mumbai. A beautiful sunset for a date, Mumbakers know best. I was mistakenly identified as a celebrity and let me tell you, it was a day !
Chhatrapi Shivaji Terminus (CST) another symbol of Mumbai will make you feel small, and a witness of history. Formely Victoria Station, this Unesco Site is a must !
The Hanging Gardens are on the top Of Malabar Hill. It is nice way to go, and there are just peaceful, and away for the craziness of the city ! A nice place for a picnic !
Dadar Market is the most amazing market : you can literally find anything ! Go to the flower part in dadar East, mind the train, and be amazed !
Global Vipassana Pagoda was inaugurated in 2008. This recently new piece of jewellery gives you an hint of Myanmar.
Colaba Causeway probably is the most unique commercial street is India. I dare you to go all the way .. This long street is a succession of shops, people, shops, food, food and .. people.
National Gallery of Modern Art what a gorgeous museum. Similar to the one New Delhi, it will allow you to recharge your battery in the mist of the city.
Elephanta Caves no introduction needed I hope. The Unesco site is the most unique island in the state. Go, and wonder, a memory I will cherish for years to come.
Mahalaxmi Temple is one the must famous Temple in Mumbai. It deserves, demands a visit for any history nerd like me !
Sanjay Ghandi National Park allows you to watch people play cricket for days without understanding the rules. I should warn you, that shit is real hard ! I ave been giving it a try since 2009 but Lord, nothing beats playing it the empty streets of Mumbai a Sunday !
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, represents the most exciting place of Mumbai. This museum holds treasures and pieces of history for the entire mankind’s time on earth.
Treat yourself to this : walk around, get dirty, get lost, get street food, get scared, & fall in love !
The full story of my journey in India is soon to come !!
Udaipur, The City of lakes, Rajasthan, India by @theserialwalker & @lucabailleul
After spending days exploring, I left for Goa. Unplanned, I decided to dedicated myself to a week of day drinking on the ocean, whoring around for my 26th birthday. I will tell you about that, no worries.
The most visited part of the incredible country is as reason probably the most known for is clones to Agra and the Taj Mahal, and also, for cities like Jaipur.
Remember if you need to manage your money and travel : Here is Journeylism ! Free & homemade tools experiences tested !
I wish to offer you a compilation of my top 10 cities in the region : they will give you history, culture and the unique feeling of discovery.
So It Goes
Jodhpur, The Blue city is probably my personal favorite, a museum holding the first constitution of India, the lovely streets of the city are everything that India as to offer.
Jaisalmer, the Golden City is more quiet, even lovelier for a walk in the past. The fort still is a living space, with schools, restaurants, and flowers.
Pushkar will give a sense of the Rajasthan. On the way from Agra or Jaipur, treat yourself by admiring the place.
Udaipur, The City of the Lakes is one of the most incredible place I’ve been. The view, the food, the people, the best of India, the best of Rajasthan, a city surrounded by water leaving you with space and marvels.
Jaipur, The Pink City is no need of an introduction. Coming from the Pink City of France, I felt the ways of India in the city opening her doors the travellers. Elephant, Museums, palaces and step well will delight you with the crowded streets and markets.
Chittorgarh represents the history of India. Incredible temples, a story about sacrifice, a peacefulness welcomed after Delhi or Jaipur.
Ajmer is the perfect blend between history and the gate to modernity. On the banks of water, it will give you the most amazing stay, and on opening into the cultural identity of the state.
Shekhawati and the town of Fatehpur is deserving of more exposure. The uniqueness of the site is a must-see for any patrimonial lover.
Ranakpur has the unique Jain Temple, covered in art and a prolific history.
Kumbhalgarh holds a incredible wildlife sanctuary and the most epic fort. Place of birth of the Mighty, it is the last of my must-see !
Nepal, Nepal, Nepal .. I was imaging a bunch of white hippies in floral dresses smoking for a few minutes there !
It was my First stop on the world tour I never finished. I always wanted to see Kathmandu, the temples in the historical valley ! So, before reaching India, I decided to make a stop in Nepal.
Well, most people asked me about my intentions of trekking … Let me be very clear : my fat gay ass does not trek, or do camping. Thank you white straight people, I would nearly killed myself out there. S if you are looking for the stories of my ABC trail, it ain’t gonna happen ! I only do the DDD trail, the Day Drinking Day one.
Let’s go back to the matter at hand : Nepal, the Valley of Kathmandou – A week of mesmerising memories, the most welcoming people on the roof of the world, a memorable day drinking day, slutty meetings in the street of Kathmandu !
Essentials : Nepal & LGBTQIA +
The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal is UN Member since 1955 with the motto « Mother and motherland are greater than heaven ». Nepali is widely spoken in this country mostly in the Himalayas. Nicknamed the Roof of the World, an estimated population of 28 millions, Nepal is the birth place of the Buddha, born in Lumbini.
We will nee a visa to get in, you can get it on arrival at the Airport, where you can find a bus going to Thamel, cheapest way to go ! I suggest you check the conditions specific to your country, but have USD ! The currency is the Nepali Rupee (1 euro = 140 rupees (31.12.2020)). Moving around is not that easy with public transportation (buses), so I suggest to use an app like Tootle Today, or Pathao ! Affordable living, and a polluted city, with the best moms in the world, cables and traffic, welcome to Kathmandu City.
Nepal is probably the most LGTBQ + friendly courtly in South Asia. With the work of organisations like The Blue Diamond, Nepal keeps making history (third gender, legal protections, provisions for same-sex marriage…).
Safe and alive, your visit in Nepal should be a highlight of your travels ! Gay Nepal is soft, and lively, still with its own challenges. Not to be mistaken with the open love and affection between men in the streets ! One of my favourite place to visit, and a gay bar I very much enjoyed, Pink Tiffany host of a drag show ! Read here the inspiring story of its founder !
Another place, I highly recommend is the Purple Haze Rock Bar : Live music, gay-friendly, and cheap drinks ! The perfect start for the weekend or a night out with friends during the week ! I saw a show of a CCR Nepali band, it was quite something, and no-doubts one of the coolest night ever !
By Asian standards, Nepal is a safe gay travel destination ! Now, on to the walking part !
Swayambunath Stupa (Or the Monkey Temple) by @theserialwalker & @lucabailleul
A valley, three cities, so much to see !
Historically called Nepal Valley ou Nepa Valley, Katmandu Valley is formed by three main cities Kathmandu City, Lalitpur (Patan) & Bhaktapur.
Jhochhen Tole, the original « Freak Street » popularised by hippies doing the 60’s and the 70’s, B, on the Hippie Trail, has now been replaced by Thamel. Full of accommodations, restaurants, and access to Kathmandu City must seen, it si a cool neighbourhood. I stayed in the Wander Thirst. Well-placed, it was perfect to go on walk in the city for a nice awakening.
Pack some water, and go get lost in the myriad of streets ! You will get lost, oh trust. The smells, the noises, the dangers too, the streets of Kathmandu are one huge mess of cables, dirt, dogs, monkeys and people !
I loved my time there, and I promised to take my husband there someday ! We’ll, I guess that the next time will be different ! I imagine less day drinking with foreigners and locals, no more sexcapades to fuck this cute nepali, I had a great time with, in the dark of the cold night of the street of KTM.
The Nepalese are the most welcome people ! I will be grateful for the help, and go see for yourself ! Nepal, I will stay longer next time ! A week was not enough the go to Pokhara, Bandipur, or Lumbini … So see you soon 😉
The soul of the city will surely be as vibrant as it was ! Well now, it is time to see where to walk around in this valley !
My version of a Nepalese Trek : Walking in Kathmandu Valley
So, my gay ass trekking « no she better don’t » version of the ABC trail is simpler, cheaper, less sweaty too. There is a lot to do around the City. The Valley is composed of Kathmandu, Patan, et Bhaktapur.
All reachable walking, expect Bhaktapur than is 13 km away, the way back maybe you should use an app like Tootle Today, or Pathao !
Kirtipur and the hilltops like Champa Devi are the perfect hiking place ! South of Kathmandu, you can walk the 8 kms along the Bagmati river. There you have amazing food, the Bagh Bairab Temple, and the Tauhada Lake to see. It is a guaranteed authentic experience of Nepali way of life.
Patan – Laliptur has the most incredible wood & metal work in the world. The « City of Beauty » is known for the craftsmanship reversed through out the generations. The singular terracotta Temple worthy of a visit the Mahaboudha, a Shikara Style Temple with countless representations of Buddha are, with the Patan Museum, some of the must see around Place of traditions, ou will find many temples of different faiths(Hindu or Buddhist), an old charm despite the closeness to KTM, Unesco Sites, and again, the loveliest people, the Newar. Proud, longtime independent as a city-state, the place will make its mark.
Bhaktapur is a bit away from KTM, nothing you can’t handle. The City of the Devotees is probably one of the most beautiful place I’ve had the chance to see. Display of woodwork, finest handcraft metal work, the traditional way of crafting can be found on the monuments. This City is art standing.
Roof of the World – Kirtipur by @theserialwalker & @lucabailleul
Here’s the map I used for this. I recommend you to use an app like maps.me for this : you can manage time, directions, and all. It can really be tricky to find your way back sometimes !
THE TALES OF MY MEXICAN JOURNEY : FIRST SOLO BACKPACK EXPERIENCE
Hey SerialWalkers ! 🐷 🏳️🌈
Here are some of the Tales of my Mexican Journey ! Recap here if needed ! A journey that changed my life forever ! A year ago, I left for the journey of a lifetime and boy, and I ended up married in Paris after starting the year day drinking on a roof top in Jaipur ! This is not the point of today article !
Essentiels to know
Los Estados Unidos Mexicanos use the Pesos, 1 euro is around 23 pesos, a pack of smoke is around 60 pesos, so you can see.
Transportation with ADO is quite easy, super app. For Mexico City, CDMX, you can use MetroBus, a free app and usable out of internet connexion with public transportation.
No need for a visa : 6 free months of staying for tourism for EU citizens !
My first solo trip backpacking was something, you will see, and it was also a moment to better yourself, so little did I know.
Why did I leave by myself one day ?
First, let me tell you that leaving France for México at this point in my life was the best decision I have ever made ! Here’s the context and a enough of my life story for you to understand me, this choice, and the rest.
I grew up in a messy, funny, demanding home : in a little town in the countryside of south western France, my parents were working in clubs, and bars, enjoying life at its fullest if you know what I mean. I never had a childhood, really. I have three siblings : Charlie my big sister, a little brother Mateo, and another sister Tess. The ones I know of. We don’t share all the same parents, like I said complicated. My mother was with a man for 13 years. He raised me, beat me up, wounded me for a long time with physical abuse and emotional ordinary homophobic remarks. My dear mother, having her own issues, whom I love so much, let’s say, we have a complicated relationship but it comes down to having the hard talks, and it is so rewarding ! I struggled with his for the longest time before realizing having those feelings, expressing them was not a weakness but a proof of growth and strength. My best friend Julie helped me through so much, pushing me to be better, and here, I say to her thank you Kinou. She is probably the reason I am still alive and well. 25 years later, and still my soulmate. I am still rebuilding my relationship with my family, not really a part of it, here when needed, but never completely honest with them about my struggles ..; work in progress ! Now, married to the man I love, I feel strong enough to share this story with you.
I set goals from my life early on : public life, politics, public service. I wanted a calm life, with rules and protocols, a clean house, a husband, kids, and dogs, of course, a pig. I survived when they abandoned me at 15, worked my way through college, starting a PhD in Higher Education and Research. I created the life I long for. Still having fun, enjoying my life of excess, going to work, a full rounded life with incredible friends, lovers, and yet still a void that success by my standards, I could fill.
So, I did what every normal person would do in this situation : I ran away again. I built my life twice, why not once more abroad. I always wanted to leave with a backpack and just be ! You know my passion for the program …
This is the idea behind my mexicain journey : enough of public service, always wanted to leave like this, therefore I did ! It is one of the best choice I ever made, still have implications in my life today. I learnt some much from that experience about myself, the world and how to experience it differently ! And México because I always wanted to see Chichen Izta, my love of tequila and latinos too ..
Now, three years later almost, I wish to reflect one this, here, publicly, because I know a lot of us, in the community struggle with abuse, and fill the need for approval with meaningless sex, day drinking days, drugs, and some tears.
The best of the experience is the lasting one : the feeling of freedom, the sense of discovery you go thought with your self. This is unique to each of us, but commun ground to a shared experience of traveling.
A journey in Mexico
First, I got a book and made a list of things I wanted to do and see : my inner german was on, bitch ! I packed too much stuff, worried too much about immigration ( a free 6 months visa for tourism but still ), bought drugs, condoms ! I took my pig Bartock, and off we went !
I left Toulouse six days after buying tickets for Mexico City. A night out in Barcelona with a friend Alejandro, I almost missed my flight for the US because of an « excessive drinking » contest with two polish dudes in a gay bar uptown !
After a night in the airport of Miami, Florida, I arrived in the morning in la Cuidad de México en los Estados Unidos Mexicanos ! And you can get to the center from the airport by métro which is around 5 pesos.
Mexixan flag, Zocalo, CMDX by @lucabailleul
Bienvenido a México !
La Ciudad de México
Nothing says welcome to México more than a fresh beer and tacos ! After I reached my hostel en la zona rosa, the gay neighborhood of the city, took a shower well needed, and got starting on Grindr, I decided to go visit el Museo Nacional de Antropologia ! A little Métrobus, so easy and cool I was there, so what is still one of my favorite museums !
For the transport, buy a card at the métro station, and recharge it, simply 🙂
CDMX, oh boy, the second time after London where I just walked around for hours in this amazing, green city ! High in the mountains, the air is polluted yes. But there is so much more to it !
After this tour, I came back and enjoyed drinks on the terrace with now friends. What a moment : listening to them and their stories, learning about Mexican history ! It never gets old, every time in a new hostel, there we go ! Inspiring !
Then on to what there is to see and do in CDMX and around ! I made a list back home, changed it with advices received the night before ! I am going to make this as a list, obviously, with some pictures to follow ! Walking this city en el centro historico for hours was the best experiment : the food, the smell, the buildings, the people .. incredible !
I encourage you to look for gay-friendly hostel in la Zona Rosa ! I stayed at Hostel La Tercia : cheap, clean, well-placed to enjoy la Calle Genova, with everything in walking distance !
Castillo y Bosque de Chapultepec, just so cool, so much green !
The two mains attractions close to CDMX : Teotihuacan y Xochimilco !
El palacio de bellas artes, centro historico, CDMX, by @lucabailleul
Around, mostly in CDMX, there are two incredible spots : zona arqueológica de Teotihuacán and Xochimilco ! To get there, fairly easy : the bus with ADO for the pyramides (around 114 pesos back and forth, 5 euros, and count 6 hours total), and the métro lines for the Venetia of México (around 50 pesos back and forth, takes 3 hours, 2 euros with the métro, tricky but doable, and so worth it) !
Don’t forget to check this Top 10 – Queer places in CMDX ! The night life is just amazingly gay, and there is a variety of choices : Karaoké, Leather bar, Kink !
I left CDMX after a bit more then 10 amazing days ! With a new buddy, Aaron, with whom I would get into trouble ! We followed each other for a while across the country, and meet again in CDMX later ! Let me tell you it was quite enjoyable, and the Day Drinking Days numerous 😉
Off to Puebla and Oaxaca
I took the bus for Puebla y San Pedro de Cholula ! I stayed at a friend’s place, went to the comedic theater in town where he was performing ! So much fun to see a Mexican play turned into a comic situation !
There are a few cool things to do in Puebla :
The oldest library in latinameria is a must, named Palafoxiana,
the chuches are incredible, la Catedral de Puebla is gorgeous,
and the town full of students, which means el barrio Container City is so cool to hang around and meet people !
Puebla is young, cheap and getting around is easy ! Making a stop there is worth it for a couple of days !
The oldest library in LatinAmerica, Puebla, by @lucabailleulIglesia de San Predo de Cholula, Puebla, by @lucabailleul
Then off to Oaxaca, I went ! Oaxaca de Juarez is the capital of the Oaxacan State, one of the most diverse state in Mexico : beaches, urban towns, mountains de La Sierra .. You can do almost anything you want !
Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca, , by @lucabailleul
Oaxaca City is a old and dynamic town : she has everything you canposibly imagine. Music is the street, mercados, and amazing spots !
Here is a little compilation of cool things to do :
Go walk around the Zocalo : most of the hostels offer free tour of the city ! It is a half day of visiting, and testing local products ! Oaxaca is famous for her food !
And the Main Event, la Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán is just amazing ! One of my favorite place in the country ! Take a guide because this site enjoys a enormous culturel background !
And visits and all, I ended up day drinking with a gringo on a roof top, a straight white dude I slept with at the end ! Spend some time in Oaxaca, the city is vibrant, full of souls, and kind to the travelers !
Monte Alban, Oaxaca, by @lucabailleul
Puerto Escondido was next. I spend almost three weeks there. This place is paradise. I found myself in this blue pacific ocean, surrounded by a small town, mostly known for the surfing spot la Playa de Zicatela. Turns out it is also a party place where I met some may different people from so many different backgrounds ! You can go help save the turtles, I cleaned beaches around ! A perfect little town !
Zicatela, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, by @lucabailleul
I stayed at La Casa Daikiri : the best hostal in town ! Pool, cheap, amazing vibes ! Lorena was so helpful for everything ! Just an incredible human being, that runs also the BarFly, the coolest place to be in town with an incredible rooftop, cool DJs and affordable cocktails with mezcal ! On the rooftop of the hostel, I had my epiphany : I felt good, happy, I belonged. For the very first time, I wasn’t questioning anything so critically. I found myself making a place leading to this moment. So grateful for that day where everything took a turn for a clearer path, a painful one on so many levels, a necessary one above all. I also stayed at the PipeLine Hostel : cheap, and party vibes with an unique view on the beach !
Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, by @lucabailleul
The beaches are amazing, la Semana Santa got us crazyyyyy ! I did so many slutty things there .. Oh boy, I lost a lot of Life Points, the rest of my dignity, but I was probably the most amazing three weeks of my life ! I cannot describe the meaning of this place, go please, do yourself of favor and go !
Margarita by night, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, by @lucabailleul
Then, I painfully left for Chiapas. A long 12 hours bus ride for the cold estado, which turned to be a place so cool and original !
El Chiapas : San Cristobal de Las Casas & Palenque
Chiapas is unique. It has his own story, langages, and struggles. It also has gorgeous landscapes, and ruines, and San Cristobal is quite a surprising town !
San Cristobal de Las Casas is a joyful little town up in altitude (2200m). It is cold at night and in the morning but boy the air is so refreshing ! There is a few very nice places to visit and you can walk it for a day !
I would suggest to do this :
Notable Churches to Visit in San Cristobal de las Casas
La iglesia de Guadalupe y la Iglesia de San Cristobal pon the hill with gorgeous views,
San Cristobal de Las Casas, Chiapas, by @lucabailleul
Go to the local craft market where you can try anything, connect with people with the most singular stories about their passion for their land ! You can also do some outdoors activities in the Canyon !
I left for Palenque some after ! There is a lot to see around this area of Chiapas !
Palenque, Chiapas, by @lucabailleul
Three ruinas : Palenque, the Temple of Inscriptions, and Tonina ! Palenque is just breathtaking ! I encourage you to spend Half a day visit and learning about the place ! Then three sites where Mother Nature worked her best magic : Agua Azul, Misol-Ha, y la Cascada El Chiflon ! Amazing sites with warm and colorful places to eat and enjoy the view !
Agua Azul, Chiapas, by @lucabailleul
I left for Mérida, La Cuidad Blanca during the night ! I got robbed in the bus, so beware ! No harm, just a lot of money gone !
Mérida y Valladolid, Yucatan
Yucatan translate to « I don’t know what you mean ». Today, this name resonates for all. The Caribbean Sea, the Golf of Mexico, a richness of culture, food, heritage, and cenotes.
Mérida, la Cuidad Blanca, the White City, is a culture center : a colonial heritage mixed with a strong feeling of mayan background. Walking around the Zocalo, you can taste Yucatecan food, admiring the beauty of the centro historico. Know for the culture heritage, she posses. Mérida offers a perfect balance of colonial colorful architecture, and a demonstration of mayan traditions. We can experience the Pok Ta Pok, the Mayan Ball Game (mostly for tourists) dressed in their beautiful mayan attire in front of the most impressive Catedral de Mérida !
La cuidad blanca, Mérida, Yucatan, by @lucabailleul
The good thing about Mérida is the welcoming people, and the price range. Almost all the main attractions are free, and compared to the Riviera Maya, well, you can live nicely here trust me.
and for free again, you can visit el Palacio municipal !
I met up with a friend, and made a new german friend ! The next day was chill visit of the city again and a good day drinking day on a roof top with an amazing view of the city !
Come the day trip through Yucatan with the german dude to visit a few remote places. It is worth because not expensive much, and really practical, includes food, entries and it left me in the next stop on my trip, Valladolid.
For the cenotes, I leave you to search on the internet : there are thousands of articles out there ! Here’s for one French people, that I loved !
Izamal, Yucatan, by @lucabailleulCenote in Yucatan, by @lucabailleul
Chichen Itza, the dreamt to go there since I was a kid reading about it ! There I was, in the heat, exploring the uniquely majestic UNESCO site ! It was the first of the Seven New Marvel of the World ! Take at least half a day to immerge yourself in this incredible place, it is so worth it !
Chichen Izta, Yucatan, by @lucabailleul
After that amazing day, I found myself in the human-sized Pueblo Magico de Valladolid. A pretty little town where Grindr offered me to meet an amazing friend ! We spend the entire week together in Tulum after that. I went to visit the green cenote in the city center, attended church a la Iglesia de San Servacio , ate marquesitas, in a warm an romantic atmosphere !
We left for Tulum the next day. Again, a site I was really looking forward to : las ruinas mayas.
Tulum, la rivera maya
In Tulum, rent a bike to move around, stayed in a cool hostel, and grindr on ! Boy, that week was hot ! Food is really amazing but expensive. Ask the locals to help you find the Luncheria : cheapest food in town !
You wake up, have a nice coffee and breakfast and then you go visit the most extraordinary : Las ruinas mayas de Tulum ! They are just beautiful, and there is so much to learn ! I was looking forward to it since the season 9 of Pékin Express !
Ruinas Mayas in Tulum, Quintana Roo, by @lucabailleul
I ma not writing some other very touristy and cool places, but there are more than worth mentioning. So, I would also encourage you to visit and stay at the following places :
Holbox, this one is just gorgeous,
Playa del Carmen, nah,
Isla Mujeres, chill out there,
Cozumel, too chic and bougie.
After 10 amazing day, alone in my dorm meaning my own terrace and shower, having three homes after two days, and day drinking the fuck out of my liver with cubans, I left for Bacalar !
Bacalar, Laguna de siete Colores y Chetumal
After an epic bus ride of three hours, I reached Bacalar with Isobel, my new yoga teacher Portuguese friend. I stayed for three days in a nice hostel in down, for a reasonable price, and met so many cool people there ! A Russian backpacker, a guy for Ouzbekistan, a gay couple for Danemark, and a swiss german to die for !
We all went on a boat trip the next day ! And the lagoon deserves the name of the 7 colours : it is simply breathtaking ! The changes between the depth, the fishes and the sun .. Probably, one of the most memorable experiences in Mexico !
The next was day drinking and sex in the church, chill yoga time, a lof of reading, because it was raining ! For the first time in two months (it was mid-aril) !
Well, at least I had a fun few days, and the coolest bunch to do such an activity ! I left for Chetumal with the image of this stunning man, and the stunning lagoon.
Bacalar, Quintana Roo, by @lucabailleul
Chetumal, the border City with Belize has the reputation to be a boring city !
Well not quite ! I had a marvelous day visiting the ruins of Oxtankah, spend the afternoon in Calderitas, where the fish was to die for, and walk on boulevard Bahia for a drink at night ! So, Chetumal, you are okay !
Walking in Chetumal, Quintana Roo, by @lucabailleul
He was time for me to go to Cancun to take a plan back to CDMX, and I was ready for it !
Cancun y back to CMDX
Cancun, not much to say : it was expensive and full of gringos. Not my cup of tequila !
I found my way back to Mexico City for an interview, and also, fix some administrative issues due to my stolen credit card and ID. Well, I was happy to get back to the city, see the boy I was seeing before leaving, and check the nightlife some more !
UNAM, CDMX, by @lucabailleul
I got to do one thing I didn’t do the first time around, Xochimilco ! La Venise du Mexique is a well deserved nickname ! A sunday in a warm weather having beer and tacos, riding effortlessly une barca in the middle of the maze created here ! Such a great romantic activity ! I would recommend it because it is just calminf from the raging CDMX, and the views, flowers, churches are stunning !
Xochimilco, CDMX, by @lucabailleul
After this last week, where my dignity was in a all-time low, and my liver ready to drop, I had to go back home to Toulouse … Happy to see my friends again, sad to leave this county. I knew I was coming back. Well, I did !
The way home through L.A, well I got drunk for free in Business Class because the captain of the Crew loved my pig, and my butt I believe too, so I ended drunk in L.A.X. It was not cute, at all. 10 hours delay, and back to Barcelona. Once a 4 hour ride, I was back in cold France, having drinks with my friends. I felt home, whole, the spirit lifted, and a will to continue challenging me to this day.
Hope you enjoyed this little Tales of my Mexican Journey ! Take a leap of faith, as I did, and you will understand !
This country is going to be my home someday. I am now back in CDMX, and after only three days, the feeling has not changed : this is it, where I want to live, once done with the rest of the world 😉
Promise yourself that one day, you will wake up Bali.
I remember reading this about 11 years ago. I was 15, and the final episode of « Pekin Express Season 4 » (the French version of the Amazing Race) was airing soon. This season started in Viet Nam in the Ha Long Bay throught Southeast Asia with the finish line in Bali.
For me, and I was about to get on my first flight ever for the UK, this adventure seems like to perfect journey. I watched the previous seasons, and I am still a huge fan ! This road, I saw a bit of it now, well, was the dream. Still waiting for Viet Nam !!
I went to see my best friend, Julie. She was doing in internship for Business School, and I was working my summer job and decided that I was time for me to go ! She is working in Canggu now, managing the Pirate’s Bay Cruising ! I highly recommend their services for a unforgettable experience in Indonesia ! A few most later, I arrived in Bali on a hot night of october 2015.
Planning on returning this year, well, we know how that turn out, I would love to enjoy an empty Bali. Lord knows how attractive Bali is, and mass tourism lurking is not a great color on a small island of Indonesia.
Oh boy, I was scared shitless about driving in Bali, so I did not. Yep Gojek was not that developed at the time, seriously handy ! I was not the experienced independent traveler than I am now. I was 21 and focusing on studies. Last time, I drove I got hit by a tucking Boat !
I met wonderful people, and got to do some of my bucket list sight seeing ! Some missing still : climbing Batur, and Gili Air, but Raja Ampat and Flores are not going anywhere.
What I want to share with you is the experience and I think the beginning of my day drinking days, no walks of shame, and some pretty naughty airports. Also, Indonesia being the largest muslim country on earth, LGBTQIA + rights are non-existed and attack under « the morals of the faith ». Struggling population, even on a slightly unique island like Bali, educated me on the rights of LGBTQ in Indonesia !
BTW, I just love this outfit, that ass bb ! God, I swear I wore this shirt for 3 years no stop, how French of me !
This is me @lucabailleul in the Monkey Forest in Ubud.
Bali, Bali, Bali … There is some such to do, see, and experience ! You can find here my Top 15 Bali Experiences for some ideas !
This first weekend we went snorkeling in Pantai Permuteran : it is in the northern part of Bali ! What a weekend that was, after a boob-seeing accident, a reggeaton music festival on an island, and some dancing with the whole diving gear on Celine Dion, Good God, I was the happiest I had ever been. We slept on the floor in the office of the scuba dive company after eating smoked-cooked fishes grilled by our friend ! The following week, It was chill by the pool program, and Ubud. Walking the beaches in Sanur was fun, working friend for amazing lunches on the beach with fresh fish every day was perfect ! We went to visit Seminyak and Kuta, once beaches and nightlife centres of Bali !
Then, came Ubud. First came two friends, and that was it. I was going to have a blast with my to straight white men ! We accidentally fell in a Coffee plantation with pretty extraordinary animals, one owner just nuts, and some shots of a pinky rice wine, and of course, Arak. It was 1 Pm, the three of us hammered, and the Monkey Forest ahead… Let me tell you, this was a day ! The sanctuary is amazing, and amazingly full of straight people with undisciplined kids getting beaten by monkeys. What a thing to see, a german yelling at a monkey.. I still get on hard on from time to time.
staggered rice fields in Ubud, Bali by @lucabailleul
Let’s go South now !
Nusa Penida the next time, so check My Top 15 – What to Do and See in Indonesia for ideas ! Nusa Lembongan was the highlight of my trip ! To this day, expect some specifics ones across the globe, it was the most truly magical place for me. This started in Sanur. We took the boat to go to the island, with buses of Chinese tourists, rented bikes, and off we went ! To have lunch at Day drinking time in the place you will see in the next two pictures ! I felt blessed, and still can taste the lemon Bintang and the Chivas rhum in the pool off a cliff.
Julie & Farda in Nusa Lembongan by @lucabailleulAlmost too much @lucabailleul – presque géant à l’époque !
The last Sunday, time for Uluwatu and the beaches of the Bukit Peninsula ! Quite a marvelous place ! Interesting to see the socially divided environment though. The whites on the Top with view and pools, and the locals in the oceans. Nothing surprising really, urban sociology & good old social scales’ representation. Anyhow, Padang Padang beach was out of reach of getting out of the Scootys Highway, was Dreamland Beach ! Gorgeous !
Dreamland Beach in Uluwatu by @lucabailleul
After a wonderful weekend, Monday came. It was time to leave. We spent the day drinking in the pool, so much so, I couldn’t get tattooed, and almost not allowed in the plane ! Later on, some delay eh, Singapour again, where I had sex in the bathroom with a South Korean met on Grindr. There I, trying to sober up smoking, met Darcy. An American lady of 60-ish springs, living between France and Bali, working in jewelry high I don’t remember what. We got drunk on whisky coke, got a the plan where I was stuck between the window and two heavier individuals. I swear she was touching herself watching Magic Mike.. We Chardonney-ed, and I gave back everything on the landing zone. Glamorous as always, injuring my pride and the leftovers of Dignity I had. A fat Burger after, the song Hello by Adele just out get my sad sad tears of a clown (RPDG anyone ?). Bali transformed my view of spirituality, and the way I relate to people having experiencing it. I used to believe depression was weakness and people who fainted were just weaker, so imagine the growth I have experienced as a human being.
Coming back tanned in early November for mi-terms, I promised myself that Once again, I will wake up in Bali.
Next time, Mexico my darlings ! Bye my Serial Walkers !
I am just taking to time to post this first Top for the first part of my Incredible India series ! A three part article about a gay solo traveler making is way through the sub continent !
21 millions people, food, the last Star Wars & the largest political manifestation ever recording (CAA) , I am so grateful for my time in Delhi !
The Red Fort in Old Delhi by @lucabailleul
Most of people going to India spend time in Agra & the Rajasthan – Varanasi & Goa .. and I will cover that later. Some told me don’t spend in week in Delhi, it is too long ! Well, after careful considering, I decided to stay, see a old friend, make new ones, better my limited Hindi !
This City is old, chaotique, vibrant, rich of her people, and Incredible like the rest of India. Not comparing to Mumbai, politically, capitals are always more interesting to me, because they usefully have cool museums, and the people staying are mostly just working there : we start there, and you can stay with them 1500 kilometres later ! 🙂
Remember if you need to manage your money and travel : Here is Journeylism ! Free & homemade tools experiences tested !
Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, Old Delhi, New Delhi, Khan Market, temples and smells, Delhi is Inevitable.
Udaipur, The City of lakes, Rajasthan, India by @theserialwalker & @lucabailleul
So it Goes
Here’s the list of my top 10 of what to do and see in Delhi
One of my favs , Humayun’s Tomb ! The first of its kind, it is a Unesco site which cannot disappoint !
The Red Fort : built in the middle of the XVI century, is the apogee of Mughal Creativity. A must-see yes, because human kind should keep learning and building the complex that is.
Jama Masjid is one the largest mosque in India. Exemples of the Mughal faith, It’s also known as ‘Masjid-i-Jahanuma’ or ‘Mosque commanding view of the world.
Qutub Minar, the sandstone highest tower of India, Unesco World Heritage deserving of a visit.
India Gate near the Yamuna river is a impressive Gate built in the 20s as a effort for the lost soldiers who fought in WWI. 70, 000 names are inscribed on it. Around this monument, you will find others : the War memorial and a army museum !
The Lotus Temple inaugurated in 1986 is one of the most visited monument of India. A unique Baha’i place of worship for all religions, flowerlike shaped. A privilege by the iranian-american architect Fariborz Sahba.
The Lodhi Gardens, the perfect winter garden, is a magical place. Protected now by the ASI, multiples tumbs, (Muhammad Shah, Sikandar Lodi …) XV century punjabi architecture, a walk in time we will never forget !
Khan Market & Old Delhi Market : the perfect example of the growing and changing world. One is the ancient market, where you get lost walking around, the other one, is a place in the center of the New India.
Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib is one of the center of the Sikh faith in Delhi. A calm place surrounded by chaos, a welcoming people to share a tea with and learn about religions. A life-changing experience for me.
Akshardham Temple, or Swaminarayan Akshardham, the recent complex is a spiritual and cultural center. The best way to get into it, get lost in the majestic complex.
Because, it is not on the major spot list : Hauz Khas Village, an old vestige, rehabitlited, and a lonely place to chill, favoured by the new generation for arts, restaurants, historical relevance and the islamic academy.
This article focuses on the balance between leaving on a whim and the over-processed schedule. We know the struggle ! This is what I call my Inner German.
The idea behind Journeylism is to offer free homemade tools to help travellers in managing their trips !
What the F is an Inner German ?
We all have Inners. Your Inner Drunk Slut José, your Inner Diva, your Inner Bitch .. and your Inner German, Bertha.
Getting ready for the day : information in Delhi – @theserialwalker
Here is a definition : your Inner German is the part of you who can efficiently plan, execute, reflect and repeat. It’s the voice in some situation in your head saying « Dude, you should have done this.. I am not the kind of girl to tell I told you so, But I did tell you so, Bitch ! » She sounds like that in my mind, at least. And why German ..? Well, because there are the most disciplined people I have met .. in a democracy !
The whole spectrum is opened : some have to plan, some hate it, some like it ! Find your point of equilibrium.
The goal here is to provide insides on why I embrace my inner german, and how !
The Cost Of Cautious – The Convenience Tax
This is the most important part of it all : managing finances and planning significantly reduce costs ! You can travel longer, better, safer !
The right tools, some reflexions, a good preparation ante departure, and a daily routine will by any means improve your experience !
Knowing that you can take the bus from the airport, can save you 40 euros in paris, 15 in Mexico City ! Knowing that some buses are cheaper with hostels, and some other exemples ..
The convenience tax goes like this, and eat away at you. Be assured that money is not everything. But, planning ahead may prevent you some sacrifices when after you may have to chose not to do an activity or a visit because it would not be worth anymore.
Planning gives you a way to freedom : you don’t have to stick to your entire schedule, of course, in fact I doubt it is possible ! Planning gives you opportunity to measure in advance, act accordingly, moves the needles for what is realistic, what is possible. It is a choice giver. Armed with information, let freeway to change, modify, alter with opinion of locals, any kind of plan.
Embrace your Inner German !
The cost is also a moving measure : a balance between desire, means, and opportunity !
A fair exemple : a spreadsheet, wordpress, pictures and go !
A list of Tools to help you Embrace your Inner German
Following this lovely bit, I want to propose A List of Tools : this is not another list of the best app for travellers. You would find one better suited for general purposes somewhere else. These are the I have, and use on a daily basis for most of them.
Travel books, and yes, there are few actually practical : The Lonely Planet « La bible du Grand Voyageur« , Regional & Country centred ones (avec le Routard for french speakers).
No need for an app when you have a nice homemade spreadsheet for managing your finances ! Do it everyday for 5 minutes, it will do miracles ! #TOOL 1 – Journeylsim
Apps are the easiest digital tools, provided by science – same for vaccins -, & are quite an essentiel part of our lives. Here are some I use the most : `
Notion (my favorite) for organization, Thank me later,
Also, some online digital tools that might prove useful : Canva for Design, Unfold for IG, PixLr for pictures, Onwardtickets for well onward tickets, Couchsurfing to meet & sleep people ..!
Here’s a exemple of what Embracing Your Inner German Can Do with a document made to help in planning a day trip ! Helped me for Berlin, Budapest, Kolkata, and some !
I just finished a little Dossier « Off you Go ! » : 6 pages on how to plan and prepare yourself for a trip, including the Check-List, obstacles, some behavioural tips !
Oh Mexico City … The capital of the Estados Unidos Mexicanos, and the second largest capital of Latin America is a magically-loud, full of souls, of bars, and the some of the sexiest man, of a City ! Well, married to a Mexican myself, I fell in love with the city and the country !
So I propose here for you a new list of my favorite things to do in CDMX ! You can read the whole Tales of my Mexican Journey ! This is part of the series dedicated to this amazing country ! We can find and the end the other 3 tops I propose to you !
Monumento de la Revolucion, CDMX, by @lucabailleul
Castillo y Bosque de Chapultepec, just so cool, so much green !
The two mains attractions close to CDMX : Teotihuacan y Xochimilco !
Around, mostly in CDMX, there are two incredible spots : zona arqueológica de Teotihuacán and Xochimilco ! To get there, fairly easy : the bus with ADO for the pyramides (around 114 pesos back and forth, 5 euros, and count 6 hours total), and the métro lines for the Venetia of México (around 50 pesos back and forth, takes 3 hours, 2 euros with the métro, tricky but doable, and so worth it) !
Don’t forget to check this Top 10 – Queer places in CMDX ! The night life is just amazingly gay, and there is a variety of choices : Karaoké, Leather bar, Kink !
All Rigthy ! Do not hesitate to send me comments or suggestions on IG (@theserialwalker) or Contact me if you need some additional contacts on the ground !
Oh Mexico City … The capital of the Estados Unidos Mexicanos, and the second largest capital of Latin America is a magically-loud, full of souls, of bars, and the some of the sexiest man, City ! Well, married to a Mexican myself, I fell in love with the city and the country, ! Soon, we have a plan to go back, and another Top 15 for the next time !
Streets of CDMX by @lucabailleul
La Cuidad de Mexico – CDMX – and her Zona Rosa is the gay neighborhood of the city. Puerto Vallarta maybe the San Fransisco of Mexico for me CDMX is the one of the coolest cities ! I want to share with you my love with this Top 10 of Queer Places in CDMX !
SO IT GOES
Baby, the perfect bar for a drink or date,
Cabarétito Fusion, the coolest drag shows, and cabarets,
Vienna Bar, dance and drink,
Boy Bar, well I was younger once,
Kinky Bar, just my favorite place to go after day drinking,
Youkali Caberet, the coolest drag shows too,
Drrama By 42, because youth is important,
Banos Finisterre, the classic mexican Sauna,
La Botica, mezcal and karaoke,
Nachos Beers & Bar, homy, hairy, and cheap !
And also, Tom’s Leather bar for the luuv of it !
I loved that outfit ! By @lucabailleul
I hope this is giving you ideas ! Don’t forget that dreaming is free !🐷❤️🇲🇽🏳️🌈
My pride has been a struggle. Sometimes I wanted to queen out, but take pride in being anything but a cliché. Thanks to media representation, I know now that I can be whoever I am !
This is a short video about LGBTQIA + solo travelers after my trip to India, and this article is here if you want to know more !
These are troubling times. The need for representation is essential.
Representation in the media for the LGBTQIA+ community is the basis of democratizing moving norms, and fulfils the need for self-identification.
You can’t be what you can’t see they see !
Here’s my list of Bad-ass queer individuals !
Dr Calliope Torres, Grey’s Anatomy, played by the one and only Sara Ramirez,
Bianca Evangelista, Pose, portrayed by MJ Rodriguez,
Saul Holden, Brothers and Sisters, portrayed by Ron Rifkin,
Santana Lopez, Glee, portrayed by the late Naya Rivera,
Nomi Marks, Sense8, portrayed by Jamie Clayton,
Oliver Hampton, Murder, portrayed by Conrad Hamilton,
Rusty Beck, MajorCrimes, portrayed by Graham Patrick Martin,
Adena El Amin, The Bold Type, portrayed by Nikhol Boosheri,
Henrietta “Hen” Wilson, 9-1-1, portrayed by Aisha Hinds,
Carlos Reyes, 9-1-1 : Lone Star, portrayed by Rafael Silva,
And a special one for Commander Lexa, The 100, portrayed by Alycia Debnam-Carey !
You should soon be updated on the release next week of the new article of my journey in Mexico, and how it changed my life !
Well, I am moving to Mexico for a while, then coming back to France, then Taiwan, launching my own company, and have a few more projects on my plate … All of this needs time, and preparations, and my inner German is tired !
I come to write this lovely morning with …a list !
My pride has been a struggle. Sometimes I wanted to queen out, but take pride in being anything but a cliché. Thanks to media representation, I know now that I can be whoever I am !
This is a short video about LGBTQIA + solo travelers after my trip to India, and this article is here if you want to know more !
Seeing all the Christmas movies coming out already for the great expectations of some, I want to propose a list of my favorite queer movies !
Not just straight white people having issue with their turkey and the size of the tree, but LTBGQIA + related movies to improve representation in the medias ! Yay for Hallmark !
These are troubling times. The need for representation is essential.
Representation in the media for the LGBTQIA+ community is the basis of democratizing moving norms, and fulfils the need for self-identification.
You can’t be what you can’t see they see !
Here’s my list of Bad-ass queer Movies !
Geography Club (US, 2013)
Call Me by your name (Italie, Brazil, France, US, 2017)
Alata (Isreal, Palestine, US, 2012)
Mi major Amigo (Argentina, 2019
Hidden Kisses (France, 2016)
Le Clan (France, 2004)
Mariposas Verdes (2017, Colombia)
Hazlo como hombre (Mexico, Chile, 2017)
No es Berlin (Mexico, 2019)
Love, Simon (US, 2018)
The Thing about Harry (US, 2020)
Time out (India, 2015)
Moonlight (US, 2016)
The Blossoming of Maximo Oliveros (2005, Philippines)
Fronteras (Spain, 2014)
Carol (UK, US, 2015)
Nate and Margaret (US, 2012)
Paris is Burning (US, 1991)
120 Battements par minute (France, 2017)
Happy Together (Hong Kong ,1997)
And a special thanks to Akron !
You should soon be updated on the release next week of the new article about my Mexican journey and how it changed my life !
The Serial Walker - Walk The Word - Walk your Path 