Here's everything I take with me on a backpacking trip! From sleeping bags and pads to my favorite gear, snacks, and clothing, don't forget these items when you head out on your next trek!
I have lived in Atlanta for about 10 years, I've seen restaurants open up and close down. I've experienced a lot of different vibes and this is my most curated list of restaurants that you should 100% try on your visit to the big A! These places all have not only the best food, but also service. I have also recently started to get to know the stories and people behind some of these restaurants and it's safe to say that they all have AMAZING people behind them who are experts in their field. Enjoy !!
I love to travel, but I also can't break the bank when I do. So I try to find the most bang for my buck while still enjoying myself. Here, I will share a few of my essentials, and they may not all be your essentials, but I hope it gives you a good start.
A hand-picked guide to our favorite spots in Medford, Oregon—where we eat, shop, relax, and explore. From cozy coffee shops and local restaurants to unique experiences and hidden gems, this list is all about the places we personally love and recommend. Perfect for locals looking to try something new or visitors wanting to experience Medford like we do.
When it comes to my hotel picks, I like to keep it flexible—because sometimes you’ve got the Benjamins, and sometimes you’ve got the points. My recommendations include spots where you can splurge with cash, cash in those hard-earned loyalty points, or mix it up with a points + money combo. Think chic stays, budget-friendly luxe, and clever redemptions that make you feel like you’re living the suite life without draining your wallet (or your points balance).
Exploring Rock Island, Illinois in style! This list is all about hitting up the coolest historic spots, aquariums, and zoos around the area. Whether you're into soaking up history or getting up close with marine life and animals, these recommendations will help you do it luxuriously. Dive in for some top-notch experiences!
These are the travel essentials I always bring with me, no matter where I’m going. From beauty to organization to comfort, these are the things that keep me feeling soft, prepared, and put together while I’m away from home.
A collection of hotels, hostels, and accommodations that i've personally experienced. You'll find luxury, tips, find unique details in my list. From America to Europe, welcome to my travels.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Seattle with my handpicked list of must-do experiences! Whether you're a local seeking new adventures or a visitor planning your trip, dive into the vibrant culture, breathtaking views, and mouthwatering delights that define this city. Get ready to create lasting memories in Seattle!
We just had the best day downtown San Diego with my in-laws! If you’re downtown (and don’t want to worry about driving/parking a bunch) here is all the spots we walked to during our outing.
Cozy up this winter and explore destinations that mix adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. From snowy mountain escapes to sunny beach getaways, these spots are perfect for your winter bucket list.
As someone who lived nomadic for a while and has travelled extensively, I still feel my homeland is simply the best, and while most people want to go on safari in the kruger, these are my golden recommendations:
Discover Washington, D.C. beyond the monuments and typical tourist stops with this guide to the city’s most exciting hidden gems and immersive attractions. From interactive museums to unforgettable adventures, these experiences will show you a whole new side of the nation’s capital.
🌟 Mind-Bending Attractions
• Step into a world of illusion at the Museum of Illusions, where interactive exhibits play tricks on your eyes and mind while sparking curiosity and laughter.
• Explore the eccentric O Street Mansion Museum, famous for its hidden doors, themed rooms, and eclectic history—it’s part treasure hunt, part museum, and 100% unforgettable.
🌟 Fun & Games
• Enjoy a round of mini-golf, creative cocktails, and street food vibes at Swingers, a vibrant indoor social club perfect for groups.
• Test your teamwork and problem-solving skills at Beat The Bomb, an immersive challenge where players race against the clock to “defuse” a digital bomb before it explodes in colorful paint or foam.
• Step into the spotlight at The Great Big Game Show, where you become the contestant in a live-action game show filled with challenges, trivia, and plenty of laughs.
🌟 History & Culture
• Gain powerful insight into the nation’s story at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, with exhibits that celebrate resilience, culture, and contributions throughout American history.
• Embrace your inner secret agent at the International Spy Museum, where you’ll uncover the world of espionage, complete undercover missions, and learn about real-life spies and their daring operations.
🌟 Scenic Escapes
• In spring, take in the breathtaking beauty of D.C.’s iconic cherry blossoms with a relaxing lunch cruise along the Potomac River—an unforgettable way to see the city in bloom.
From hidden doors and spy secrets to thrilling challenges and cultural deep dives, these unique experiences will make your trip to Washington, D.C. truly one of a kind.
We love Queensland! We had our honeymoon in Port Arthur and our daughter lives in Townsville. We travel here each year in winter. The weather is just amazing. Summers can get hot and humid so keep the weather in mind when you are planning to visit - I would avoid December - March.
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!
A great guide to Sedona in the Grand Canyon. I went in October and the weather was great and cool though it was chilly at the Grand Canyon. This guide includes, hikes, bites and what I brought!
Cincinnati and N Kentucky each have their own charm - and together they make one of the best midwestern city experiences. Here are some of my personal favorites for food, outdoor views, coffee, and activities to help you enjoy the area the way we do.
Mexico City is so big but there are a lot of things you can do as a family. My family and I enjoin going to many places, here are some rec of my favorite places in Mexico City!
welcome to my favourite city in the world! you know as a sagittarius, i am a big leisure traveler, but i also have lived in 5 different countries & in over 6 different cities. by far, i have found the best and most perfect place for me & would love to share my recommendations, as well as my favourite places… you might even find me there & if you do please say hi! NOTE: that i am always editing and adding places to this list, enjoy! x
Perth is absolutely worth the trip if you are thinking about visiting Australia. Our weather is Mediterranean, hot, dry summers and mild winters. Perth is the sunniest capital city in Australia. It has stunning beaches, and a true laid back vibe. I've lived here for over 41 years and couldn't think of living anywhere else!
Oh boy! This is my favorite list!! Everything in this list are things I travel with, personally, and I use incredibly frequently. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or you have a question about a type of gear I haven’t linked! I’ll probably have suggestions I just forgot about because there is so many!! 😅
A coastal haven where surf culture, hippy spirit, and a rich musical legacy merge with pristine state park escapes. Ride classic waves along legendary breaks by day, then wander scenic trails that invite quiet reflection and bursts of creative energy. With its deep roots in free expression and iconic music history, Topanga offers an authentic, sun-drenched adventure for every soul in search of a timeless, countercultural vibe.
Nashville is one of my favourite places on this earth. If you're looking for the best vacation ever, make sure to consider Music City! Here's my ultimate guide of everything you need to know for your trip.
These are all my top suggestions for when you are traveling in the Philippines! This is a seriously gorgeous country. There are so many incredible things to do and places to visit :)
Visiting the Middle Peninsula of Virginia? Moving here or live here already? Here are my recommendations for the top things to do! I've lived in this region for the last 18 years, so I've been around a while to find the gems for you!Surrounded by rivers, the Middle Peninsula is great place for water activities like kayaking, boating, or fishing.We also have some great restaurants and boutique shopping experiences. Don't let the rural atmosphere turn you away, we have plenty to see and do!
We go on cruises a LOT! I've cruised to Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, the Bahamas many times, British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Dominican Republic, Haiti, and then took a cruise from Iceland to Norway, Amsterdam, Brussels, and ending in London. I may not be the most cruised person, but here are some of my cruise must haves! As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn on purchases.
Whether you’re visiting your child at Murray State or in town for the quilt show, check out my local favorites and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
I’ve (almost) stayed at every resort at Disney World! 😅 Here are my totally personal takes on each one—what I absolutely love and what maybe isn’t my favorite.
Just a quick note: Every Disney resort, in my opinion, is clean, magical, and beautiful in its own way. These are just my honest thoughts based on my stays!
Embark on a sweet escape to Portland, Maine, filled with wonderfully cozy hotels and a delightful array of cultural festivals and events. This list is all about creating beautiful memories together, whether you're relaxing in charming accommodations or exploring the vibrant local scene.
Wondering what products will maximize the space (and be aesthetically pleasing) in your RV? I've been living in my 22' travel trailer for almost 2 years, and here are some of my favorite finds.
Ready to relax and party in Amana Colonies? I've picked out some cool bars, lively nightclubs, and super chill spas and wellness centers to check out. Perfect for a long trip, these spots will make sure you unwind and have a blast. Let’s dive in!
Tent camping in remote areas? Glamping with Electric? We have you covered for all the options and budgets out there! Stay cool and comfortable when "roughing" it in a tent (we won't judge, we air condition our tent 😊)
It’s so easy to overpack and bring so many things that won’t be used on a trip. I prefer to keep the bare minimum and be agile so you can be flexible as you travel. Of course this style isn’t for everyone and if you’re certain to be staying put in one location a few extra checked bags won’t hurt (unless the airline loses it). So I typically avoid checking bags if possible.
As lover of reading and travel, this list is to share all of my fave travel books with you. These books help me to plan travel, inspire me to travel, or are the books I take with me when I travel.
I have cruised extensively on MANY different cruise lines over the past twenty years, and these are some of my absolute must-haves when preparing for a cruise vacation! If you are taking an Alaskan cruise, make sure you jump over to my Cruising Must Haves: Alaska Edition to view items specific to an Alaskan cruise. Happy Travels! benable.com/jaime_with_magical_travel/cruising-must-haves-alaska-edition
Fall in Michigan is absolutely beautiful! The color change is stunning and can be seen first in the upper peninsula and moving down throughout the lower peninsula as the season progresses. The best time to catch the color change varies but typically if you plan on coming in October you'll catch the peak of it!
One of the greatest cities in the world I have been to. The nightlife is amazing and beautiful. There is a lot of things to do. You will never be bored. Make sure to explore the boroughs too. Such as Queens, Brooklyn, and Harlem. Harlem has amazing art.
A mix of travel-inspired products, practical tools, and motivational reads that always get me thinking about where to go next. Affiliate links are included in this list.
This is my perfect 10-day itinerary for South Africa with all activities, hotels and restaurant recommendations. For detailed itinerary follow the link to my blog!
This is a list of things to do in Minnesota whether you are here just visiting or wanting to move up here for a while. These are some of mine and close friend's favorite places to go when we need a little time away from the house! It's never boring going to the same place multiple times but there is plenty to do in this state for sure!!
I'm a researcher and invest in travel items that will stand the test of time from road travel to flights. It's important to know when to splurge and when to save.
There are many reasons to visit Centre County but Penn State is one of the main reasons. Whether it's a football game, graduation weekend, move in weekends, or just visiting your old college pals, there's plenty to do in Happy Valley! As a local resident I get to enjoy these all year around! So let me do some of the heavy lifting for you 🏋🏻♂️
A seasoned cruiser and travel agent, these are my essential items for cruising and traveling. I've been traveling the Caribbean since I was a kid and even started scuba diving when I was 12. I have tried and tested all of these and use them every trip. I sail 4 or 5 times per year and these have held up!
It’s inevitable! The destination requires the journey…and sometimes that journey is loooonnnggg. So until I’m a super rich auntie and I can fly first class every time I travel, these are my go-to items that make a lengthy flight more bearable with some solid rest.
These historic and “ haunted” getaway recommendations are sure to bring some adventure, insight and perhaps some ghostly interactions with visitors from the past. If you're looking for a place to relax, look no further with modern day luxury and western hospitality, these Colorado “must visit's” won't disappoint! ** If anyone is wondering why The Stanley Hotel is not on this list, it's because I have stayed there many times and although it is a historic, beautiful hotel, I personally do not feel it's as “ haunted” as the media portrays it to be. It is often recommended as a “must visit” location, therefore in my opinion doesn't need to be on my list of recommendations. Disclaimer* Any products I recommended may have affiliated links. I may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services I trust. This helps support my effort in bringing you only the best recommendations to you! Thank you for your support!
New to Northern Virginia area but finding all the good stuff so I can share with you!! Here is a list of places to go, things to see and must try wineries.
This time of year, seasonal depression hits me extra hard, meaning I need an extra boost of serotonin to help get me through to springtime. These chic, sun-soaked travel films are my favorite cinematic escapes, whisking me away to far more temperate spots in international, exotic locales.
St. Maarten will always be have a special place in my heart. We've visited St. Maarten twice. The second time we took a ferry over to St. Barts for the day. Talk about a dream vacation. St. Barts is definitely on my bucket list. You can also visit Anguilla. You can turn your trip into a 3 island trip which IMO is really cool. I never visited the French side but I've heard nothing but great things. I would totally bring my kids to visit St. Maarten. I would say the people there are the nicest people I have ever met. So grateful and appreciated of everyone visiting their beautiful island. It's home of the famous beach next to the airport. You can almost touch the bottom of the planes! You can also make your own perfume or cologne on the island. Definitely an island you need to experience!
As someone who was born and raised in Connecticut. This is a complete list of things to do this fall in Connecticut. Fairs, Dates and Family Fun! Fall in New England in my opinion is the best season, here’s some activities to make the most of it
These are my must-have Amazon travel essentials — the things I never leave home without. From my go-to luggage to the portable charger that saves me every time, these picks make every trip smoother.
These places are generally around the Waimea/Waikoloa area because that is where I have lived! If there are places linked that are farther from that area, know they are extra special spots!! :)
As a Long Island girl I am at the beach a few times a week each summer. These are my essentials that I simply do not leave the house without for the beach! They make ever second enjoyable and stress free!
This local coffee shop offers more than just a cup of coffee. With a warm atmosphere and distinctive coffee aroma, this place is the perfect spot to relax or work while enjoying an authentic cup of coffee. Each brew has a unique taste that is lovingly prepared by local baristas, providing an authentic and memorable coffee experience.
From beachy bungalows to desert-chic hideaways, this list is your golden ticket to SoCal stays that are anything but basic. Whether you're craving ocean views, retro vibes, or a cozy cabin with major main-character energy, I’ve rounded up spots that bring the fun, the flair, and the photo ops. Pack your sass, grab your sunnies, and let’s make your next getaway unforgettable.
Some of my essentials for a parks day - from parks bag needs to makeup essentials that keep me glam through a whole day in the Florida/Anaheim heat and humidity! Looking for even more Disney content? Visit me on Instagram @emilyeverafter55
Whether I’m heading out for a weekend getaway or a long-haul flight, these are the travel essentials I never leave home without. From smart packing tools to little luxuries that make any trip smoother, this list has been a game-changer for keeping things organized, comfortable, and stress-free.