When I visited Paris for the first time in late November 2021, I knew only three words in French. In early October 2024, I managed to score a 71 on the B2 DELF exam– without any stressful preparation or extreme study tactics. In this article, I outline all the methods and techniques I used to learn French quickly and pass the national language test.
Read MoreAfter making considerable progress improving my French through traditional classes and other methods, I realized that during daily interactions I wouldn't always be corrected for my errors. Discover how I use private lessons on Preply to improve my French, and why I like the format of their subscription model to turn language-learning into a habit.
Read MoreThe first time you accomplish anything in another language is something worth celebrating, and over the last few years while learning French and living in Paris, I’ve kept a journal of all these moments that felt important or made me feel proud.
Read MoreI’m constantly looking for new methods and techniques to improve my French, and successfully completed Lingoda’s Language Sprint and happily received my reward. In this article I detail all the advantages and disadvantages of taking a Sprint, what I loved most about the platform, and a few tips for making the most of your experience.
Read MoreAs a seasoned solo traveler who learned how to ski as an adult, I didn’t let “not having anyone to go with” stop me from practicing the sport I fell in love with. I like to think of skiing on-piste as being similar to many other sports that can be practiced without waiting for anyone else: like cycling, running, or playing golf. I’ve since skied more than 100 days alone over the last few years, and have compiled the tips that helped me get more comfortable planning solo ski trips all over Europe and North America.
Read MoreDespite Zermatt Switzerland being a notoriously expensive ski destination, there are some clever ways to save money when planning your visit. Discover my tips for skiing and visiting Zermatt on a budget.
Read MoreDiscovering and exploring ski destinations around the Europe is a passion of mine, and I always try to find ways to make my hobby as economical as possible. The IKON and Epic Passes offer access to European partner destinations, and I was curious to determine which one was better. Continue reading for a comparison of the two passes for skiing in Europe, and learn why I chose the IKON Base Pass as an American skier who is based in France.
Read MoreAfter multiple visits I’ve come to know the town of Zermatt well, and in this article have listed and described my favorite hotel properties to help you choose the best type of accommodation for your travel style. Read more to discover what I love most about each of my top hotel recommendations for your visit to Zermatt.
Read MoreI’m grateful that in my first season of taking the sport seriously, I was able to progress to confidently skiing black diamond runs. I have since skied in over 50+ stations across 8 countries, and have easily conquered some of the most iconic pistes in the French Alps. Discover more about how black pistes are defined, as well as my safety tips and techniques you can use to build confidence to start skiing them.
Read MoreThe key to getting ahead of the masses when planning your Winter Olympic travels is to get creative and think outside the box– and while the host cities are technically Milan and Cortina, venues are actually spread throughout Northern Italy and offer inspiration for alternative itineraries. Discover where each sporting event will be taking place , and my suggested pairings with nearby destinations to make the most of your trip.
Read MoreMy love of skiing and traveling has led me to discover unforgettable winter destinations and make meaningful friendships with others that share the same passions. My friend Laura and I have been planning annual ski trips in the Alps together the last few years, and our visit to Lech was a first for both of us. Learn more about my experience staying at Hotel Post Lech for our girls’ ski trip, and discover my favorite features of the hotel and recommendations for exploring the surrounding area in Arlberg.
Read MoreSkiing and traveling are two of my greatest passions, and being grateful for past experiences and setting goals for the future are the two practices I find most important for living a fulfilled life– creating this bucket-list allows me to celebrate all four of these elements at once, and I hope it will inspire you to do the same for yourself. Discover all of the bucket-list ski experiences I’ve had thus far, a map of every station and resort I’ve skied, and the destinations and experiences I hope to visit and accomplish someday.
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Get to know Carina Otero
Founder of She is Not Lost
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