If you like hole-in-the-wall ethnic fare, groceries, and supplies, check out the following places. They're all in the same neighborhood: University Blvd., about a mile south of Beach Blvd. I live close by; I bike and shop here often, and reminisce about my travels abroad.

Beignets Caribbean Café
...Caribbean...
4770 Barnes Road #1
Jacksonville, FL 32207
(904) 737-6789

Karam's Mediterranean Grill
NEW to the area!
4241 University Blvd. S.
Jacksonville, FL 32216
(904) 636-9595

European Deli
...Russian & Eastern European...
4323 University Blvd. S.
Jacksonville, FL 32207
(904) 730-5036

Hala Café and Market
...Greek & Middle Eastern...
4323 University Blvd. S.
Jacksonville, FL 32216
(904) 733-1855

YOUTH HOSTELS

Where do backpackers and other adventurous types sleep when they travel? Youth hostels, of course!

Hostels are unique, colorful, and usually only 10 - 40 bucks a bed per night. There's at least one in every major citiy in Europe, America, and beyond. FYI, the "youth" in youth hostel is a misnomer. Youth hostels welcome any age, so long as you're young at heart and community-oriented. Best of all, most hostels have community kitchens and eating spaces, which are great for meeting other travelers.

Hostels near Jacksonville, Florida:

Hostel in the Forest
Brunswick, Georgia
80 miles north of Jacksonville. With tree houses, a private lake, homemade dinner, organic garden

Pirate Haus Hostel
St. Augustine, Florida
35 miles south of Jacksonville. Captain Conrad makes pirate pancakes for guests each morning