Hostel-horror film FACT or FICTION?

Is this real life?
So, before I left America to venture in Europe, this film, along with the 2008 Liam Neeson film Taken, was all I had running through my mind. Needless to say, I was petrified. Luckily folks, this is not real life. I stayed in 2 hostels total, and they both were pleasant experiences. 

Both were chosen at Hostelworld.com I cannot stress this site enough, because it is truly a credible source, with over 100 customer reviews per hostel! You should choose one with free wi-fi, and free breakfast, because let me tell you, thats the best way to start your day of exploring a European city! 

Free breakfast, yum! In London, I had oatmeal, eggs and toast, and of course, British breakfast tea. In Paris, I was served a fresh croissant and baguette with nutella and butter, yogurt, oj, and cafe. It was delicious.

In front of the White ferry Hostel in London

As far as the sleeping arrangement, most of the rooms are 12-bunk camp-like setups. But it is cool because pretty much all the people in our room are college age and excited travelers just like us. the sheets were clean, and comfy. Just be sure to bring a sleeping mask and earplugs/ipod for focused sleeping time because it will be a revolving door of lights turning on and roommates coming in and out.

Is it creepy at all? Well, you have to be the type of person that is comfortable in new environments, and somewhat friendly because you will have absolutely NO privacy. But still, there is that element of 'holy crap, I'm sharing a room with complete strangers.' which is, yes, uncomfortable. You need to be sure to keep all your belongings in a locker or put a lock on your backpack. Also, just talk friendly to your neighbors right from the start, so you aren't feeling awkward. 

Total Paris hostel I shared with my bf on our trip to Paris.

All in all, don't trust strangers, or give out your personal information and you will be just fine. Just do your research, pick a hostel location that is city central (or at least near a metro) and be comfortable with the journey. 

How does it feel to be back in the USA?

So, I made it back in one piece. Traveling is a love/hate relationship, but at the end of the day I know anyone would say they wouldn't trade the experience for anything. Since I've been back, I keep getting the same million dollar question: How does it feel to be back in the USA? Well, I have a few words to describe my feelings.

Secure: I am back in my hometown of Lake Mary, FL. and I actually know where I am going at all times of travel, and also see people I grew up with pretty much around every corner.
Focused: Now that I have got a taste of travel, I see how much my money is actually worth. So now that I am back, I am more focused than ever to work hard, and make lots of money so I can continue to see the world.
Healthy: Europe had an amazing influence on my lifestyle. Pre-Europe Devin was eating out 4 times a week at fast food joints. (my fav was chicken Mcnuggets 10 pc. w/small fry and coke.) Post-Europe Devin, now, believe it or not has a new passion for healthy food and cooking! My biggest influence was Spain. I went to publix recently and bought some green olives, whole wheat rotini pasta, and made mediteranean pasta salad for my weekly lunches at work!

I baked homemade white pizza! With olive oil, garlic, oregano, mozzarella, and  Ricotta cheese.

Loved: Absence makes the heart grow fonder is only true to those who truly love one another. I think while I was gone for half a year, I realized who my true friends are, the ones that will always stick by my side no matter what stage of my life. Mostly happy to be back to have family time. I took it for granted, but I try to use my free time and weekends to hang out with my awesome mom, dad, and sisters.