I grew up in the lower part of Westchester County (just a few miles north of NYC) and then I lived in Brooklyn for about 7 years during my early 20s, and more recently I spent a few years living in the Buffalo area as well. Many of my friends and family members still live in the greater NY area so I thankfully get to visit often and still enjoy a lot of the same old spots, restaurants, and experiences. I just thought I'd start putting together a list here with some of my favorite things about New York and I hope you find some interesting things to try whenever you're visiting!
Happy Fourth of July! These are my recommendations for US destinations to explore the next time you're considering traveling domestically! As a travel writer, I get the opportunity to visit many locations in the US, and these are my absolute favorites!
The key to having a successful Disney day is making sure you arrive prepared with all the essentials you might need throughout the day! These are the products I always have on hand in my bag when I go to Disney
If you live or plan to visit the Salem, Oregon area, the Oregon Coast or Central Oregon, here are some of my recommendations of things to do and places to go and eat.
One tip before you buy anything: on Eurostar you lift your own bags onto the rack, so the carry-on, weekender and layers on this list are chosen to be light enough to swing up one-handed. It is built for a fall or winter week split between London and Paris with no checked bag, from cobblestone-friendly shoes to a trench that shrugs off drizzle.
all of my must haves when cruising. whether it's a 3 day or a 7 day cruise, these are what's in my suitcase. 🛳️❤️
Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian all charge an arm and a leg for the items on the drug store list, save $$ and get them before!!
If you’re always on a flight, this is the perfect list for you. These items have helped me time and time again when it comes to traveling. From tide to go to a handheld fan, this list is sure to make your travel more efficient. List includes electronics, travel information/deals, and skincare
If you're traveling solo and looking to explore the best eats and top attractions in Jinja, Uganda, this list is for you. From mouth-watering restaurants to must-visit zoos and aquariums, here's your guide to making the most out of your solo trip in Jinja.
I love to travel - and if I'm flying over an ocean I'm staying at least three weeks, but i refuse to check a bag for risk of being stranded in a foreign country with clothes or toiletries so here's my list of much haves for a smooth carry on only foreign travel experience.
Planning your dream trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast? This has everything you need—from where to stay and what to pack, to the top things to do in Positano, Capri, Ravello & more. Whether you're sipping limoncello on a cliffside terrace or boat-hopping in Capri, start here to make your trip unforgettable.
I was born and raised in Fernie so I feel like I know all the hidden gems, and top places to visit. Whether it is to stop for some food, spend an activity filled day in this beautiful town, or stop for a happy hour sipper, I got you!!!
i've been a flight attendant for 3 years now and have it pretty down pat what is always needed and what i always have !! sooooo, here's everything that i won't travel without !!
Some places that I’ve gathered over the last few years I’ve been living here! (Will be continually updated when I find cool things since I don’t gate-keep 🌚)
If you’re visiting NYC or Brooklyn for the First time, here are some more non-touristy spots that you can visit.
Planning the perfect afternoon tea moment in Boston? This list covers the best places to enjoy afternoon tea around the city—plus elegant outfit ideas, chic purses, and soft glam makeup picks to complete the experience. Whether you’re dressing up for a girls’ day, bridal event, baby shower outing, or a cozy luxury moment, this guide has everything you need for a polished tea date.
Visiting DFW? Live here? Either way, these are places I've been and loved! Almost all are family and kid-friendly! (Have to be with me having a 2 and 4 year old!)
I like keeping a trip flexible, and this list fits that idea nicely. It brings together coastal views, relaxing walks, and memorable local spots and hotel options for enjoying the destination at your own pace.
I love steam engines... I write crime novels set in the days of steam in the UK... here are some of the best 'steamy experiences' you can have with your clothes on! :-) All are 100% perfect family days out...
A practical carry-on kit for keeping clothes organised, devices charged, luggage easier to track and long journeys more comfortable. The picks solve common travel hassles across a mix of price points. Check device compatibility, airline battery rules, bag dimensions and current prices before buying. Some links may earn a commission at no extra cost.
Growing up; my mom was a fourth grade teacher. That meant we had all of Summer vacation dedicated to relaxing, adventuring, sleeping in, and field tripping.
At some point, she started the tradition of “field trips”. She had gotten a book of places to visit in MN and we went to MANY. A lot of times we took my grandma, some times my grandma, once in a while a fried or family member, but always the two of us.
Recommendations from my week long trip to Crete, Santorini, and Athens Greece! Where I went, what I ate, what I wore, and what I did. This was a trip that I will never forget, and I would LOVE to share what made it so special! Take in some of these tips, and have yourself a Mamma Mia summer!
Discover Calgary’s must-see spots! From tasty eats and family-friendly attractions to scenic hikes, shopping adventures, and more - these are the experiences you can’t miss when visiting YYC! My Family and I really enjoy visiting these places often.
As a PNW girl who loves to explore, these are my go-to travel tools and local discovery apps I never leave home without! From road trip must-haves to hidden gem finders.
I have traveled to 38 states and 5 countries so far, and compiled a list of all of my favorite travel items that I think are the most essential to bring on trips, whether it's a short road trip or a long flight overseas!
Traveling can be an exciting yet challenging experience for individuals with anxiety/autism. With thoughtful planning and the right items, you can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable journey. Here are my essential travel tips and recommended items for anxious/autistic travelers, designed to enhance comfort and reduce stress.
Whether you're traveling from Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison or another bigger city, you'll appreciate the quietness and ease of Lake Geneva, WI a little extra. But don't worry, there are also options to have fun for a night out on the town if that's what you're looking! Check out some of the best things to do and places to visit during your little escape
If you're Disney obsessed like our family is, check out these must have essentials for your next visit to the most magical place on earth! A list of comfort, convience & style!
All the items you need for a memorable beach trip. You can use these over and over again and often use them more places than just the beach, going to the park? going to watch fireworks? going camping?
Did my best to compile some places I’ve visited all over AZ that fit this list :) I know a lot of them are popular!! But I wanted to make this for any local baby bats or alt baddies visiting from out of state.
A little disclaimer- the palazzo only does events a few times a month, they are not open weekly/ nightly! Check their insta for upcoming dates and other details like cover charge and times
Discover romantic cafes, coffee shops, parks, and gardens in the beautiful city of Bhaktapur, Nepal. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for coffee or a scenic garden for a peaceful stroll, this list covers some of the most charming and intimate locations to explore with your loved one.
Pittsburgh is one of my favorite places. I lived there for a short time and I married a yinzer that also played football at the University of Pittsburgh. These are my Pittsburgh things and places, that make my heart happy.
Đà Lạt is a magical place that feels different from the rest of Vietnam. Make sure you're prepared with everything below so you can enjoy it to the best of your ability!
Cruise cabins are small, so the best packing trick is bringing your own storage: an over-the-door organizer, a hanging closet shelf, magnetic hooks and a non-surge power strip. This family cruise packing list adds Sun Bum sunscreen for pool days and dresses for formal night. Magnets stick to the metal walls in most cabins.
Skip the tourist traps. This is my local's guide to Vegas, from a quiet morning at Floyd Lamb Park to a show at Absinthe, dinner at Oscar's, and a night out on Fremont Street. You'll find old-school Vegas, great eats in Chinatown, and a few spots that feel nothing like a casino, like AREA15!
Get ready for sunshine, adventure, and relaxation. Here’s what I brought on my last two spring break vacations that got me through an entire two weeks👙☀️
This is the Rome honeymoon itinerary I'd give my best friend — five days mixing romance, history, and the best food of your life, from rooftop dinners overlooking the Colosseum to mornings tossing coins in the Trevi Fountain.
Disney cruise line quickly became my favorite vacation. Great food, Broadway entertainment, family fun, tropical paradises, Disney magic..all around amazing. I grew up taking a cruise once every few years. We took one for our honeymoon as just adults then most recently when I was pregnant with our second child. So I am a seasoned cruiser and think I have our list down pact.
I love to make lists for myself so here is my packing list for when we go on a Disney Cruise!
If you are visiting the Texas hill country, then you need to check this little town out. This town has so much to offer in such a small package. We love going here for the day and walking Main Street, sitting at the park and eating too much food. My all-time favorite spot is the bakery on Main Street called Prizers Sweet Shop. They have this puff pastry pretzel that is delish!! I cannot even really describe the amazingness of this sweet. There is also a shop of all different types of jams, salas, crackers, honey and crazy stuff. We always leave there with something new. The town is German so if you love yourself some German food you are in luck.
After living in Chiang Mai for the last few years, I can say with confidence that Chiang Dao is the next best town to visit in Northern Thailand. It is authentic northern Thailand. Chiang Dao has natural beauty, plus that sprinkle of Thai culture that I love so much. Plus, it’s not too crowded with tourists! Here is my best guide to Chiang Dao, and how you can enjoy your time in this ethereal village in northern Thailand!
Pack less chaos, charge anywhere, and make long-haul travel feel dramatically easier. ✈️
This research-based travel essentials list focuses on high-utility upgrades for flights, business trips, weekend escapes, and international journeys: luggage organization, device power, tracking, comfort, and a few genuinely useful carry-on upgrades. Start with the items that solve your biggest travel friction—then save this list before your next departure.
Affiliate disclosure: This list contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. Product availability, prices, colors, and compatibility can change; always confirm current details with the seller before buying.
A master list of my personal favorite travel activities, high-end stays, and non-negotiable trip protection. From curated Viator excursions and premium boutique accommodations to essential luggage and travel insurance, this directory covers exactly how to elevate your next adventure while completely bypassing the standard tourist traps.
We host guests year-round at our own Kissimmee villa, and the happiest travelers always bring a few small comfort upgrades from home. These are the Amazon picks that make any Orlando-area Airbnb or vacation rental sleep darker, feel cozier, and run smoother - all cheap enough to toss in the suitcase or ship ahead.
From cozy coffee spots to trendy boutiques, delicious eats, and everything in between, here’s a curated list of my favorite local finds in Springfield. Perfect for anyone looking to explore the city like a local with your girls (or just find some fun new spots to try!).
If you've ever stepped off a flight rubbing your neck like you slept in a ditch — same. I used to dread anything over three hours because I'd arrive feeling worse than when I left. Took me about seven awful flights and four returned pillows to finally nail down what actually works at 30,000 feet. This is everything I pack now, whether it's a red-eye to London or a quick hop to Denver.
Being in Florida means always being an hour or two away from a beach! Being able to go to the beach any time of the year is a blessing, and we’ve gotten pretty good at knowing what we need to bring vs what we can leave at home. Lots of beaches require you to walk a good distance from the parking lot to wherever you want to sit so you really only want to bring what is necessary. Also here’s another tip: Get to the beach EARLY and if you can’t, get there an hour or two before sunset. Good luck finding parking midday!
If you’re visiting Salem during the busy season in October, or anytime year round, these are my go-to places. I’ve done extensive research and can recommend these places first hand, because I’ve been to each and every one of them.
When I travel, I keep it TSA-friendly but always on point. This list is everything I reach for to stay fresh, groomed, and smelling right no matter where I land. Think: signature scents that fit the city vibe (sexy in Paris, spicy in NYC, fresh in Tulum, luxe in Dubai), easy grooming tools, and beauty picks that keep me camera-ready while breezing through security. If it’s on this list, I’ve used it, loved it, and packed it more than once.
As a mom, you know going on vacation requires a lot of things for a lot of people 🙃 Just coming back from Disney/Universal, here are my most important items (and maybe just a few fun ones) for a great trip!
Branson is our family’s favorite getaway spot — just a 5-hour drive from home, but it always feels like a whole new world. We love sneaking away for long weekends filled with good food, lake views, and all the fun this little mountain town has to offer. This list includes our must-visit spots, cozy stays, and local gems that make every trip to Branson something special.
Packing for a flight this summer? ✈️☀️ I’ve rounded up all my go-to travel essentials from Target that make flying so much easier. From carry-on must-haves to in-flight comfort items and TSA-friendly minis, these are the things I always pack to stay organized, comfy, and cute from takeoff to landing 💕
I love India, it’s where I danced, did my yoga teacher training, walked in the mountains, swam in the sea and ate thousands of curries. I haven’t seen it all, that would be quite a trip, but here’s what I did 🧡. Just for your inspiration
Some of these places are awesome and I need to go back too. PA born and raised here and there is so much to explore in our beautiful state. I am sharing many different ways too experience our beautiful state!
Discover a relaxing hotel stay in Al Sufouh, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, an area with a beach nearby, a tram link and a quieter feel. These places to stay suit many different kinds of trips, from quick breaks to longer visits.
☀️Soak up the Sun and surf with these awesome beach chairs! From fun patterns and dual seat chairs, to chairs with storage and even heaters! Check out these fun beach chairs.
This lists gives you The Stay, The Shopping, The Entertainment, The Activities and last but not least The Party! THE WHOLE PACKAGE just in 1 LIST! Habibi come to JOHANNESBURG!🥂
Planning a trip out West this summer? Pass through Lander and hit up a meal, or stop there for a couple days because it's the gateway to the Wind River Range with outdoor opportunities galore. Time it around Rock Climbing Festival, Beer Fest, Marathons, 4th of July Rodeo...trip made!
We live 20 minutes from Epcot and hit the festivals year-round, so this is our honest ride list for Disney World's food-and-festival park. From Cosmic Rewind to the classics worth your Lightning Lane money, here's what to do first in Orlando's most grown-up-friendly park.
Keswick is in the Lake District National Park in north west England. It's lush, and ancient volcanic, so very scenic. The small town is quite buzzy, and is completely geared up for tourist trade (not always a good thing). I've lived here for almost 3 decades, so can point out the best.
My summer agenda has these repeats from last year's festivals to go to, places to visit, parks to chill in and how I get around the Brew City while keeping my car in the garage
Looking to itch that travel bug? Here are some of my favorite stays from around the globe 🌎
Whether its the tropics or mountians - I've got you covered!
Whether you're driving to the Keys, road-tripping up to St. Augustine, or just heading to the beach from Kissimmee, a great Florida road trip needs the right gear. After years of long drives across the Sunshine State with my family, these are the Amazon essentials I never leave home without — for staying cool, charged, organized, and ready for whatever I-4 or the Turnpike throws at you.
An itinerary of Cape Town and the surrounding region as curated by Your DTS Bestie. I spent a week in Cape Town in November 2024 (summer in the Southern hemisphere). The focus of this vacation was wine and wellness, so the activities lean heavily towards that.
A handy collection for anyone planning a trip here. You’ll find coastal views, relaxing walks, and memorable local spots, plus hotel choices that can make the whole experience feel a little more relaxed and memorable.
A family-friendly Rocky Mountain National Park 3 day itinerary. Check into a recommended hotel, then get ready for lakes, waterfalls, and gorgeous views following in order below!
I was born and raised in New York City, and I can't imagine myself moving anywhere else 🥺 I feel like a lot of things are overhyped here, but here are the places I've been to / experiences I've tried and ACTUALLY recommend!
Things to do if you’re in Laurel, MS for the day . We have a lot of out of town visitors that come to checkout our HGTV famous town , Hometown . Be sure to check everything out!
Not everything you do in Vegas has to cost you money! So i’ve listed some fun free attractions. BUT, if you are looking to spend some coin to have some fun, I have plenty of those noted too!
I did a little mini getaway with some friends to LA for a weekend and we did a lot! I'm sharing some places I've been and places I hope to go on future visits.
Whether it’s your first time sailing with DCL or you’re Pearl level in the Castaway Club, check out my cruise must-haves.
From comfort items to make sure your cabin is cozy to organizational solutions you didn’t know you needed, this list is a one stop shop so you can sail away, sail away, sail away.
Be sure to check out our full cruise vlog from the Disney Wonder on our YouTube channel Middle_Aged_on_Main_Street
honestly, part of why i hate traveling is that i'm such a “product” person. i like having all my little things, and they damn sure better be organized. this list is all my little mini essentials that i travel with to make my life easier
Planning a trip to Calgary? This all-in-one playbook covers everything you need — from the best hotels and car rentals to must-visit parks, hidden gems, and hiking & camping gear that actually performs. Whether you're exploring the Rockies, road-tripping through Alberta, or just looking for a smooth, stress-free stay, this curated list helps you book smarter, pack better, and experience Calgary like a pro.
I'd use this as my shortlist for a Marseille trip: unforgettable viewpoints, waterfront culture, wild coastal scenery, and genuinely convenient places to sleep. I've kept the mix personal and practical, pairing the city's big sights with rooms that suit everything from a couples' getaway to a family stay.