Welcome to Hongdae Shopping Street, located near the Hongik university station exit, a vibrant and bustling hub of fashion, art, and culture in the heart of Seoul, South Korea. Nestled in the vibrant Hongdae neighborhood, this eclectic shopping district offers an unforgettable experience for both locals and tourists alike.

From trendy boutiques and unique concept stores to street vendors and lively night markets, Hongdae Shopping Street is a shopaholic’s paradise. In this blog post, we will take you on the ultimate guide of this dynamic retail destination, uncovering the hidden gems, must-visit spots, and insider tips to make the most of your shopping adventure. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the exciting world of Hongdae and embark on a retail journey like no other.

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Hongdae Shopping Street: Where to Shop and What to Buy in Hongdae, Seoul

Shopping is a popular pastime in Seoul, so many Koreans and tourists come from all over to buy Korean fashion, cute products, face care items, and so much more. These are some of the most popular places to shop in Hongdae and some of the best things to do in Hongdae. If it’s summer in Korea though, you might be better off going to some shopping malls like Starfield COEX mall in Korea to avoid heavy monsoon rains and come to Hongdae shopping street when it’s not a rainy day. 

Hongdae shopping street is quite similar to Myeongdong shopping street, but there are a few things that make it unique and different. Here are some of my favorite things to do on Hongdae shopping street.

Eat Street Food

Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure as we delve into the vibrant world of street food on Hongdae street. This bustling neighborhood in Seoul is not only known for its trendy fashion and lively atmosphere but also for its mouthwatering street food scene. From sizzling grilled meats and savory pancakes to delectable desserts and refreshing beverages, Hongdae offers a diverse range of flavors and culinary delights to satisfy every craving. 

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Korean snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok or eager to try unique fusion creations, such as cheese-covered corn dogs or colorful macaron ice cream sandwiches, the street food stalls of Hongdae are sure to leave your taste buds tingling with delight. So, join us as we navigate the bustling streets, sampling an array of tantalizing treats that make Hongdae a paradise for food lovers. However, if you want traditional Korean street food, I highly recommend you visit Gwangjang market for some of my traditional Korean food favorites. 

Catch Some Street Performances

Immerse yourself in the captivating energy and artistic flair of Hongdae as we dive into the vibrant world of street performers. Known as a breeding ground for creativity, Hongdae is a haven for talented musicians, dancers, and performers who take to the streets to showcase their skills and captivate audiences. As you stroll along the bustling streets, you’ll encounter a myriad of awe-inspiring acts, from mesmerizing live music performances to jaw-dropping dance routines and mind-bending acrobatics. 

The air is alive with the sound of music, the rhythm of feet tapping, and the gasps of amazement from onlookers. Whether you’re a fan of hip-hop, jazz, or K-pop, there’s a performance to suit every taste. So, grab a spot on the sidewalk, feel the pulse of the crowd, and let the magic of Hongdae’s street performances sweep you off your feet. 

Visit KT&G Sangsang Madang (상상마당)

This. is probably one of the most popular places to shop and buy cute products, interesting souvenirs, and just an overall cool store. to check out. It’s one of Hongdae’s most-known stores and a great way to support local artists. It’s one of the most well-known things to do in Hongdae, Seoul. This is the perfect spot to find original items you may not see everywhere in the world. It’s carefully curated with a variety of products and some traditional souvenirs. 

Shop at Art Box

Art Box is a popular place to shop in Korea and shouldn’t be missed during your things to do in Hongdae. They have lots of cute stationery, apartment necessities, nicknacks, and souvenirs. It’s a great place for you to find something for everyone. They have a lot of interesting and different things you may not find everywhere.

Art Box is a haven for creative souls seeking one-of-a-kind treasures and quirky delights. As you step into this vibrant store, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors, whimsical decorations, and an array of artistic supplies. From adorable stationery and unique home decor to playful accessories and novelty items, Art Box offers an eclectic selection that sparks the imagination. 

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a collector of cute merchandise, or simply looking for a special gift, this charming store is a paradise of creativity. So, dive into the world of Art Box, let your imagination run wild, and discover the perfect piece that will add a touch of whimsy to your life.

Shop at ABC mart

If you are from the states, maybe these shoes aren’t as affordable as what you would get back home. However, if you need some shoes or you just want to see whats in style locally, by all means visit ABC mart. They have a large variety of different shoes and sometimes if you ended up forgetting a pair of shoes back home, it’s one of the best and more affordable places to grab a pair. 

Buy Socks for Cheap

Socks are a big thing in Korea and are quite affordable. Many of the fashion socks in Korea are well made and about $1 per pair. Anything more than that would be questionable unless it was made really well, unique, or had some sort of specialty. If you are moving to Korea, you can easily find socks in any size.

Design your own Neon Sign

Seoul is filled with cafes and classes where you make your own products. Making a neon sign is one of today’s fads and is worth checking out. You will learn from an experienced instructor how to design and bend your sign to the design you’ll absolutely love. Book your experience here.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 1:30pm; 4:00pm; 7:00pm; Saturdays: 11:00am; 1:00pm; 3:30pm; 6:00pm

Shop Korean Fashion at Romi Story

Indulge in the latest trends and immerse yourself in the world of Korean fashion at Romi Story. Nestled in the fashion-forward district of Hongdae, Romi Story is a treasure trove for fashion enthusiasts seeking to embrace the essence of Korean style. Step into this chic boutique and you’ll be greeted by the latest fashion trends, a carefully curated collection of clothing that effortlessly combines sophistication, comfort, and a unique sense of flair. 

From trendy streetwear and elegant dresses to stylish accessories and statement pieces, Romi Story offers a wide range of options to suit every fashion taste. Whether you’re seeking a modern twist on traditional Korean fashion or looking to explore the cutting-edge styles of the Korean fashion scene, Romi Story is your ultimate destination. So, get ready to elevate your wardrobe and embody the essence of Korean fashion as you embark on a shopping journey at Romi Story.

Romi story is a popular Korean fashion store and even caters to some girls of a curvy or bigger size. I believe it goes up to about a size 18 which is one step closer for Korean fashion catering plus size girls.

Go to Daiso – $1 store of Asia

Venture into a shopping paradise at Daiso in Hongdae, where affordability meets endless surprises. As you step into this treasure trove, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of diverse and budget-friendly products, ranging from household essentials to quirky stationery, unique home decor, household goods, and delightful knick-knacks. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible variety and incredible value that Daiso offers, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists looking for a memorable shopping experience.

Daiso is a popular Japanese dollar store that has taken over all over South Korea. Many people come here for cute and useful products to save money. If you have never been to this affordable store, I highly suggest you at least visit it once to check out all the products. It’s a great place for retail therapy on a budget. 

Purchase a cute new cell phone case

Cell phone cases are all over Seoul, however, they have a lot of shops in Hongdae where you can purchase some of the cutest cases. What I love about phone cases in Korea is how they are made and many of them have cute card cases on the back which are perfect for the subway system. You can easily put your card in the back and scan it through at the subway station.

Go crazy of Korean Skincare and Cosmetic Products

You can easily purchase skincare products everywhere in Korea, however, if you want a one-stop-shop, you can easily find every skincare store in Hongdae. They literally have each brand on every corner making it easy to find and buy. Some of the best stores I recommend checking out these cosmetic stores: Nature Republic, Innis Free, Olive Young, LOHB (Love, Health, Beauty), Sulwhasoo, Tony Moly, Holika Holika, and Etude House. 

Buy Handmade or Affordable Jewelry

There are a lot of places where you can find handmade or simple jewelry pieces in Hongdae. They even have cafes where you can create your own ring or jewelry pieces. Korean’s really loved simple jewelry pieces. If you want something real, many of the Mini Gold shops sell real gold pieces for affordable prices. This is one of the most unique things to do in Hongdae.

Shop at Hongdae M Playground

This is probably one of the most popular places to go shopping in Hongdae and they are found all over Seoul. They are mostly in shipping container buildings that are blue in color. Here you can find an array of different Korean-style sweatshirts, t-shirts, and just some interesting stuff. M Playground Hongdae is the most popular location for this franchise. You’ll find a bunch of trendy clothes that are popular within Korea here.

Get colored contacts at Olens

If you have bad eyesight or just want to change your look, you can easily get colored contact in Korea and for cheap. You do not need a prescription, just know what your eye prescription is. Even if you don’t know your prescription, they can easily do an eye test and let you know for free at certain locations.

Address: 14 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul
Hours: 10am-10pm

Take photos at Hongdae Mural Street

Get your cameras ready and unleash your inner photographer as you step into the enchanting world of Hongdae Mural Street. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Hongdae in Seoul, this captivating street is a haven for art enthusiasts and photography lovers alike. As you wander along the bustling lanes, you’ll be greeted by an explosion of vibrant colors and captivating murals adorning the walls. Each turn offers a new visual delight, from whimsical characters and dreamlike landscapes to thought-provoking street art. 

Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply seeking Instagram-worthy shots, Hongdae Mural Street provides a picturesque backdrop for your creative endeavors. So, grab your camera, explore the winding streets, and capture the magic of this artistic wonderland one frame at a time. Get ready to fill your gallery with breathtaking moments and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Meet some sheep at Thanks Nature Cafe

Thanks Nature Cafe is a unique and charming establishment nestled in the bustling streets of Hongdae, Seoul. What sets it apart is the delightful presence of fluffy sheep that roam freely within the cafe premises, providing an enchanting and serene ambiance for visitors to enjoy their coffee and treats. It’s one of the best cafes in Hongdae that you should add to your list. 

Eat at the Best Restaurants in Hongdae

Embark on a gastronomic journey through the vibrant streets of Hongdae and experience the finest dining options it has to offer. From trendy cafes serving artisanal dishes to hidden gems showcasing authentic Korean cuisine, Hongdae is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking unforgettable culinary experiences. Indulge in a fusion of flavors, innovative culinary creations, and the warm hospitality that awaits you in the best restaurants of Hongdae. There are a lot of restaurants in Hongdae with good food as they always have to be on trend and keep up with locals and foreigners alike. 

Shop at Kakao Friends Flagship Store (카카오프렌즈 홍대플래그십 스토어)

Kakao friends is probably one of the most popular characters in Korea and one of the most popular places to shop at during your things to do in Hongdae. Kakao is a chatting platform similar to WhatsApp that are related to these really cute characters like Apeach, Ryan, and so many more. They have lots of plushies, cute notebooks, pens, and accessories that are great to check out.

Address: 162 Yanghwa-ro, Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu (서울 마포구 양화로 162)
Hours: Every day: 10:30am ~ 10:00pm

Shop at Line Flagship Store (라인프렌즈 홍대 플래그십스토어)

Step into this immersive and interactive space, where Line’s beloved characters come to life through merchandise, interactive installations, and exclusive collaborations. Whether you’re a Line enthusiast or simply looking for unique souvenirs, the Line Flagship Store offers a fun-filled experience that combines shopping, entertainment, and the charming world of Line all under one roof.

Line is another chatting service similar to Kakao. However, they have partnered with BTS and have a line with all of the BTS members in cute characters, plushes, and similar accessories to the Kakao friends store.

Address: 141 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울 마포구 양화로 141)
Hours: Every day: 12:30pm ~ 8:30pm

Shop at Gentle Monster Flagship Store (젠틀몬스터 홍대 플래그십스토어)

You might walk into this store thinking it’s an art gallery, but it’s one of the most interesting sunglasses and glasses brands in Korea. They are often filled with extravagant sculptures and designs within the building that bring you in to look at their products. This is one of the things to do in Hongdae that even most locals like checking out.

Address: 54 Dongmak-ro 7-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul (서울 마포구 독막로7길 54)
Hours: Every day: 12:00pm ~ 9:00pm

Visit some of the best Cafes in Hongdae

Beyond the bustling main shopping street, discover unique cafes like the whimsical Hello Kitty Cafe and the fascinating 2D Cafe. With countless other options waiting to be discovered, Hongdae is a paradise for cafe enthusiasts seeking unforgettable experiences.

How to Go to Hongdae Shopping Street

Getting to Hongdae Shopping Street is a breeze, thanks to its convenient location in Seoul. Whether you prefer public transportation or private means, there are various options to choose from. 

By Subway

If you’re using the subway, simply hop on Subway Line 2 and disembark at Hongik University Station. Take Exit 9 and make a left turn, and within just a minute of walking, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Hongdae.

By Private Car

For those exploring Seoul by car, reserving a private car service is highly recommended. This allows you to visit multiple attractions, including Hongdae, in a single day. Just ensure that you communicate your destination to the driver in advance for a smooth and comfortable journey.

By Taxi

Alternatively, taxis are another convenient way to reach Hongdae. Make sure to show the driver the name “홍대” (Hongik University Street) or “홍익역” (Hongik Station) or provide them with the address in Korean to ensure they can easily locate the destination. It’s worth noting that not all taxi drivers in Seoul speak English, so having the name or address handy will be helpful.

When taking a taxi, it’s important to be aware of the current fare rates. As of now, the standard starting fare for a four-passenger taxi in Seoul is 3,800 won, with an additional 100 won added for every 132 meters traveled. Keeping these details in mind will help you navigate your way to Hongdae Shopping Street smoothly and without any hassle.You more than likely won’t be able to take a taxi if the distance is too short. 

Some ways to make it easier is to download the Kakao taxi app which is like Uber in Korea. You can pay the driver with cash or card, but typically you need to select the option before ordering a vehicle. 

Hongdae Shopping Street Map

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In February, I realized that I was no longer sleeping well. On the rare nights that I did rest, my tracker said I went into only 20 minutes of deep sleep a night total. Plus, the hours of light or REM sleep that I did have were punctuated with awful nightmares.

After a particularly rough stretch of ugly darkness, my friend Naomi asked to chat one night before bed. I slept soundly for the first time in months. In the morning, I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw that I had one hour and fifteen minutes of deep sleep. In the shower, where all good ideas derive, I decided to ask for some help and see who would want to have a nighttime call with me to help me sleep better.

Worried it was too hokey, I texted my brother as my brain-check.

“Are you kidding!?” he exclaimed. “Everyone feels helpless in this mess. Give them something to do.”

He was right.

I put up a short sign-up sheet on my personal Facebook page on February 13th, and by the end of the day I had a call booked every single night, all the way until late May.

“Some species of trees spread root systems underground that interconnect the individual trunks and weave the individual trees into a more stable whole that can’t so easily be blown down in the wind,” wrote Rebecca Solnit in her essay A Short History of Silence. “Stories and conversations are like those roots.”

The nighttime calls were my root system that leant a beautiful intimacy to already existing friendships. Everyone who signed up already knew me fairly well. The combo of my present situation, plus the tenderness with which everyone tried to tiptoe around it, assured that the calls were truly wonderful.

I wanted to direct the conversation away from my explaining how I was doing. I wasn’t doing very well, and to repeat that night after night didn’t seem like an effective way to sleep better. So I decided to ask everyone two questions:

• When life takes something or someone important from you or delivers a big blow, how do you find hope and joy again?
• Does spirituality affect your ability to be resilient in life? (By this I meant lower-case “s” spirituality, general connectedness to all things / something greater, not necessarily Spirituality in a religious sense. For many who were religious, it was one and the same.)

The questions led to some beautiful discourse, a deep dive into wonder and the human experience. People felt comfortable sharing their own grief and losses, as well as how they picked themselves up again.

I listened, I shared, and I felt connected to the world in a way that I missed.

I slept well almost every night.

***

The day before my 40th birthday, someone asked me how old I felt internally. I laughed, saying that we all felt younger than we were. But she meant an actual number. The question stemmed from an exchange she had with her friends, since none of them felt their age.

Does anyone feel their actual age, over the age of 30? I suppose I assumed we generally did not, that we were all milling around in various states of cognitive dissonance, waiting for a certainty that would never arrive.

I thought about it and calculated that my internal compass stopped at 28. That was the answer I gave last Wednesday, and it still fits after exploring the edges of the statement ever since. It was at 28 that I planned in earnest to leave my law job and start traveling. I didn’t plan to keep traveling. My one year sabbatical was supposed to morph into real life once more, and into a law job potentially in the public sector instead of a private firm.

But as the story goes, not so much with the return to the law.

Frankly, up until that point, I did things a bit backward. I started law school just after my 19th birthday, I billed 90 weeks at a fast-paced firm, then moved to a slightly smaller one to work in advertising law. While I did play mini-putt in the hallway with paralegals while waiting for my proxy statements to turn, the level of billable hours certainly wasn’t what my most of my friends in their early twenties were doing. And as anyone in the billable business knows, the astronomical hours billed in my first year of lawyering meant far more actual hours in the office all told.

From the judicious billing in 6-minute units, I took a sabbatical to turn to what I loved most in the world: learning as much as possible every day. That my thirst to absorb (and eat!) turned into a business was extraordinary. That it sustained my travels financially and led me to develop a community of travellers and readers who supported my work was… well, very delightful. Very humbling. How did these smart, capable people become interested in my site? Reader meetups were a wondrous marvel. I didn’t know how they got there. I just felt grateful.

Long-term Legal Nomads fans know that I never quit my job as a lawyer because I burned out. I quit because I wanted to see the world, and let those memories inform my next steps as an attorney. That I had the privilege to do so was never lost on me. Taken together, that privilege plus my profound awe that I mistakenly stumbled into a passion that became a career, meant that most of my days took little for granted.

And then this leak happened.

When I look back, I feel a loss of innocence. How could I have known to also be grateful for the ability to tie my own shoes? To walk down the street without fear of someone bumping into me and reversing my fragile healing?

I wrote about being in pain since I got dengue fever, and along the edges of that pain I found a deeper appreciation for my work and my life. At the time, it felt that my world was narrowing beyond recognition for each. It took adjustment to recalibrate to gratitude.

With the perspective I have now, those years feel ethereal and free. That journey toward grace, and my earlier reacquaintance with food when I learned I was a celiac, both feel expansive in retrospect.

***

One of my favourite short quotes is by Italian writer Carlo Levi, who noted that “the future has an ancient heart.” In a 2011 column on The Rumpus, Cheryl Strayed shared it and added that the quote beautifully summarizes her belief that who we become is born of who we most primitively are. Strayed’s reply was to a request for a graduation speech for writers, many of whom dreaded entering the real world.

I think it’s a useful sentiment for you to reflect upon now, sweet peas, at this moment when the future likely feels the opposite of ancient, when instead it feels like a Lamborghini that’s pulled up to the curb while every voice around demands you get in and drive.

I remembered this column when I began to write this post. Those times where the future felt roaring and new are curiously hard to grasp. With the weight of tragedy, I’m not alone in struggling to reconcile who I was with how my heart and soul has evolved.

The future may have an ancient heart, but my present does too.

In the two years since this spinal leak began, my inbox overflowed regularly with the rattled confusion that accompanies deep misfortune. And I write those people back using my thumbs and I say, “Yes – what we actually know in our hearts feels murky in the midst of unfathomable disorientation. Yes. I hear you. I’m sorry. I’m listening.”

How do you trust your heart when you can’t put on your own socks? How do you close your eyes and be you when “you” no longer exists in some fundamental way? The catastrophe led each of us to this mysterious place where nothing makes any sense always fails to provide the way out.

The cold truth is that life just isn’t fair. Depending on our childhoods, we learn that lesson early. Or, we learn it later. Eventually, we figure it out. How we deal with the stoic certainty of that unfairness as it churns through us dictates how well we survive.

In those two years, I’ve come to believe what many before me have said. That way out is through. The way out is remembering what we are outside the bounds of our wounds. In a society obsessed with doing, identity often ties to your accomplishments, not who you are. Fighting through all that “doing” to get to the “being” sometimes feels like a salmon trying to swim upstream.

My life today life is life itty bitty teeny tiny through no fault of my own. Many weeks I cannot go outside. I am not alone in this place; I have found others with similar, persistent CSF leaks and similar complications following treatment. Together we hold ourselves aloft in the ether.

As I’ve written before, getting through this is not about thinking positive for me. It’s about choosing what serves this journey best. Anger corrodes, and the last thing I need is more of that. It has taken a conscious shift to force myself past the borders of reasonable reaction, and into something open-hearted. To accept this twisted lot I’ve received, and then transform those fiery feelings into something lighter and more empowering.

A wisp of life is what I have, sure. But my work each day is to find joy in that wisp. Or put another way: I can’t change what happened now, but I can change the way I wake up each day. Moment to moment, I have had to pull out my most powerful emotion-microscope to find ways to feel gratitude despite how much I grieve.

I have many tools that have helped me calibrate that microscope, and I absolutely could not have done it alone. I also could not have dedicated so much brainpower and time to overcoming the mental aspect of this big life change without my family holding the weight of my physical care.

The “how to stay sane within tragedy” is a question I receive each day from readers. I hope to write about it when my health allows. It’s one of the most important questions we can ask, even in the absence of calamity.

Every day, the choice looms: do we dust ourselves off and try to find joy, or do we wallow in suffering? It’s a decision we all have to make. I used to think that optimizing for joy alone meant that we were neglecting the reasons for suffering. I equated the shift in thinking to burying my head in the sand. Through this experience, I see that even when we have good reason to wallow, it doesn’t help us endure or overcome.

My stakes feel particularly acute, since most of my days are spent to myself. I first had to accept the intrinsic unfairness. Slowly now, I can untangle the knots of my frustration and despair, and flatten out the thread until it looks sleek. Neat and tidy.

And then the next day, I start all over again.

***

This picture was a generous gift from my friend Marie-Christine. A wedding photographer, she came over to shoot photos and make me feel glamorous for my 40th. I put on makeup for the first time in almost a year, went on the balcony, and MC did her thing.

A wise person once told me decades ago that it was smart never to compare my insides to someone else’s outsides. Few people wear their struggles on their sleeve or their face. We never know someone’s story, we can’t say what is weighing them down or lifting them up. We use our own beliefs, honed with however many years of bias, to make a judgement call about a stranger.

It doesn’t look like I spent 10 months in bed or that my brain is sinking into my spine, does it? There’s a reason they call it “invisible illness”. It’s one of 30 photos I’m set to receive, all taken last week. My smile and laughter are real. I had an excellent afternoon with a dear friend, even though I paid for being upright with some extra pain.

The afternoon was a reminder of what I’ve tried to remember as I pass through this extraordinary time. That each moment we get with someone we love, each second that we can find goodness and joy — that’s one moment we aren’t giving into what exists and can dredge us down.

***

“As my face changes, I will lose myself,” writes Chelsea G. Summers in a piece about the skincare industry. “The skin-deep existential crisis is this: Who am I when I don’t recognize myself in my own skin?”

As a woman, aging unfurls all sorts of whispered consequences. Peeking grey hair and wrinkles and yes, changing skin. These days, aging is somewhere in a storage space at the back of my mind. At forefront is instead the dearth of basics that I never thought I’d lack. Walking. Being able to tie my own shoes or cut my own toenails. Opening a heavy drawer. Cooking my own food. Laughing hard or coughing or sneezing without worrying about opening up a bigger leak in my spine.

It’s not been an easy few years. It’s been the hardest few years, harder than I ever thought I could sustain. I haven’t given up, and have surprised myself with the resilience I needed to power through. “I couldn’t do what you’re doing,” people tell me. Of course they could. We never know the depths of our own adaptability and strength until it’s deeply called into question.

My story is no exception, it’s just a story of extremes. Freedom to not-freedom, with the love of the world in between.

Learning as much as I could powered my life as a traveler, and it’s powering my life now. I’ve spent two years reading everything I could about neuroplasticity, immunology, and epigenetics. I’ve meditated more than is reasonable. Through force of imagination and curiosity, and with the help of many remarkable people, I’m no longer in the pit. Even though I don’t know when I’ll walk again without brain sag.

There are thousands and thousands of people who have shown me they care during this absurd time. I try to show up for other leakers in the same way, or for readers who are scared about their pain.

I dreaded my 40th for the last while because my plan was for years to summit a big mountain with my friends. But as the day approached, I made more peace with where I am. Is it where I wanted to be? Absolutely not. But the same lust for life that fuelled my too-young-to-be-lawyering years and my eating-all-of-the-soup years sustains me now.

Life changes in an instant, and I feel proud that I packed in more in my 40 years than many people get in a lifetime. For the last two years, I’ve had to live life from the inside-out, searching for answers that don’t exist. Trying to keep my brain afloat both literally and figuratively.

***

My actual birthday was as good as it could be given the circumstances. I woke up to a burst of love from around the globe from my family, community, and friends. Friends and my mum stopped in all day long in waves, to give me gentle hugs. My Montreal bestie, who you may remember from my post about how I officiated her wedding in Costa Rica, came over for sushi dinner and a beautiful cake.

The cake was specially by Kleine Shoppe. The owner, Katie, patiently took my short list of “ingredients that don’t cause a Jodi to go into anaphylaxis” and turned out one of the most beautiful cakes I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating.

To be clear, she chose the message not me. But it was both hilarious and delicious, and I saved some of it for future consumption.

I went to bed content on my 40th. Even without the foods I used to obsess over, I felt sated. And most of all, I felt deeply cared for.

Many of us have a hard time receiving love, and that’s been a lesson for me in the past two years. It’s hard not to feel unworthy – not of love generally, but the fierceness and care of so many who want to see me well. The natural awkwardness of that feeling is far eclipsed by the strength it gives me, and the humbling effect the support has.

I’ve always looked young, something that was a liability as a lawyer and a source of mirth as a traveler. But now, it feels particularly off-key. When I first arrived in New York as a summer associate I was 20. Amazed I was there at all, I would scrutinize people’s faces as they passed by. Who would I look like? Where would my life lead me in 20 years time? It’s always fascinating to remember the shape of those predictions in retrospect.

I look at my face and my face doesn’t look forty.

I look at my face and think, who cares how old my face looks?

In that 2011 Rumpus column, Strayed writes about the interstitial years between knowing your heart’s path and making it there, eventually.

The most terrible and beautiful and interesting things happen in a life. For some of you, those things have already happened. Whatever happens to you belongs to you. Make it yours. Feed it to yourself even if it feels impossible to swallow. Let it nurture you, because it will.

When I stare in the mirror, I see a weary but strong version of me that doesn’t jive with who I was, but is exactly who I am. Surprised and knowing all at once.

And in those quiet exhalations when the pain lessens for a blessed moment, I feel overwhelmed with pure love.

My soul in bloom and my ancient heart and my youthful face, all of it, braided together to help me feel whole.

-Jodi

How You Can Help

A lot of incredibly generous people have written to ask how to help during this time. I am not starting a Go Fund Me again, and unless things change I do not plan to.

However there are three easy ways to help.

1. Help by Donating to the CSF Leak Foundation

Help by making a donation to the CSF Spinal Leak foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that has advocated tremendously for the condition I’m currently working to overcome. They are a lean organization, with those involved also dealing with spinal leaks – so every dollar counts. I’ve started a fundraiser for 1 week, via the Legal Nomads page. If you’re on Facebook, you can make a donation here until the fundraiser ends on August 22nd.

2. Helping me personally (which many of you have asked for specifically!)

I’ve told friends and extended family that the best way to help me is an Amazon gift card. This allows me purchase ingredients for foods I can eat, like teff and tiger nut flour, without my parents having to go hunt for them. I also use Amazon for the items that help with the disabilities I face – grabber devices, coccyx pillows, and my fave! Lying down glasses. You can send a gift card to legalnomads-at-gmail.com if you’d like to contribute to me personally.

3. Help spread the word and raise awareness about CSF leaks

CSF Leaks are an under-diagnosed condition than can arise from a spinal tap, epidural, spinal surgery, epidural steroid injection, and even spontaneously.

If you’re in the USA, please see the CSF Spinal Leak foundation‘s page, including the research studies they have previously funded.

If you’re in Canada, there’s a new Canadian foundation that was started by leakers this year. Awareness of leaks is specially low in Canada, and doctors here told me that I was just “having migraines” – even though they went away when I laid down. The leak experts are predominantly in the USA, so hopefully with more awareness and doctor education this changes.

***

PS. It seems my internal age broadcasts externally just fine, because several people joked that I looked 28 before I published this post. Here are a few of the responses from my birthday pics on FB and Instagram:

PPS. I had to end with a llama

Traveling with your dog can be stressful, and as much as you want to bring your pup with you on adventures, you might be worried about how they will adapt to travel.

Fortunately, most dogs are suited to traveling alongside you and can learn to be comfortable with life on the road or even frequent air travel. Here are a few tips to make the journey less stressful and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Is It Possible to Travel With My Dog?

It is possible to travel with your dog, and many individuals successfully take their dogs on road trips, cross-country flights, or even international vacations. When deciding if your dog is capable of traveling with you, you should take into account important things like their health, age, and how well-trained they are. 

Dogs that have many medical needs, ones that are too old to safely sit in a car or accompany you on an airplane, and dogs that are still in training for certain behavioral issues may not be ready to travel with you quite yet.

However, dogs that are trained with the basics, those that are social and friendly, those that are overall healthy or have any medical issues well-managed, and dogs that are generally curious and enjoy accompanying you to new places are all great candidates for traveling with you as you vacation.

Also, remember that companion dogs are usually only welcome in pet-friendly locations if your dog is trained as a service dog, you’ll be able to travel with them nearly anywhere and even have them fly with you for free in an airline cabin.

Essential Tips for Traveling With Your Dog

The following tips are all essential for traveling with your dog. You should make an effort to prepare your dog fully for travel, and always double-check pet requirements or paperwork you might need when traveling out of the state or country with your dog.

Pre-Travel Vet Trips

Before traveling, especially internationally, you will need to take your dog to their regular veterinarian and ensure they are suited for travel. You can evaluate how well your dog will handle long car trips, and you might need to receive calming medication to help your dog adapt more easily to air travel or car travel. 

Speak with your vet about any concerns regarding your dog’s ability to travel or preparations you might need to make to ensure your dog is comfortable. You’ll also want to be certain your dog has had any required vaccines, especially if you are traveling outside of the country.

Related read: Travel Benefits of Having a Psychiatric Service Dog

Keep Your Dog’s Routine

Keeping your dog’s routine is vital while you travel with your pup, as this can help them feel safe and comfortable. Make sure to pack all of your dog’s regular food and favorite treats and feed them on roughly the same schedule you have at home. 

You shouldn’t make any major changes to your dog’s diet before or during travel, and you should make sure that your dog is able to exercise frequently between long hauls of travel.

Create Emergency Plans

While they aren’t always the most fun thing to think about, properly preparing for an emergency with your dog is vital to avoiding any serious issues. 

Make sure that your dog has identification on their collar, and take pictures of your dog with their identification and keep these photos with you or on your phone. In case your dog escapes your car or another area, you may want to place a GPS tracking device on your dog’s collar so that you can easily locate them.

Research the closest veterinarian to your destination, and ensure you have any medication or other medical equipment needed to keep your dog safe in case of health issues.

Train Your Dog for Travel

Training your dog for travel is incredibly helpful, as a well-behaved dog can enjoy themselves in public and make your trip smoother overall.

You may find that you need to work with your dog on public manners, recall, or leash training; all of these things can easily be taught at home as you work with your dog to prepare them for travel.

Consider Traveling Crates

When traveling in a car, particularly with very large dogs, a traveling crate might be necessary to keep your dog contained and safe. Road trips can be made dangerous by a dog loose in your backseat, and it can be hard to contain your dog and stop them from jumping out of your car if they are allowed to run around as they please. 

A traveling crate or a leash that buckles into a seatbelt helps maintain your dog’s safety in the event of a crash and ensures you can drive without issue.

Related read: How to Find Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Make Plenty of Pit Stops

Pit stops are helpful when taking your dog on a road trip as it allows time for your dog to run around, use the bathroom, and drink a little bit of water. 

You should try to avoid letting your dog travel on a very full stomach, as this can cause car sickness and nausea for your pup. Instead, limit your dog’s meals before heading out on a road trip and only feed them a full meal when you are settling in for an extended stop.

In general, a stop every two to three hours while on the road is the healthiest for both humans and dogs in your car.

Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior

Traveling with your dog can be stressful, and you should make sure to keep an eye on your dog’s behavior. Note any signs of distress or discomfort, such as too much panting, whining, drooling, barking, or uncontrollable bathroom usage in your car. 

If you see one or more of these, you may need to pull over to allow your dog to calm down or refrain from bringing your dog traveling with you until you can visit a vet for calming medications and a check-up.

Should I Practice Traveling With My Dog?

Practicing traveling with your dog is helpful, especially if your pup has never traveled in a car before, or you are trying to get your dog used to air travel. You should ensure your dog has a comfortable, airline-approved carrier for flights, and allow them to sit in it and feed them treats in it to associate positive feelings with the carrier. 

Most dogs enjoy car rides, so you can take your pup out on frequent trips around town to pet-friendly places to get them accustomed to a road trip experience. 

Make sure that your dog is properly trained and ready to interact with new places or people in public to ensure your travel is smooth.

Traveling With Your Canine Companion

Traveling with your dog is something that many owners enjoy as an extra way to take their dog on adventures and bond with their furry friend.

And while getting your dog ready for travel can seem stressful, our tips help you prepare your pup for the most successful travel experience possible so you can do less worrying and more enjoying the journey.