Recommendations from our trip to the Luberon area in France in Summer 2023. We had an amazing time and would recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet, bucolic escape.
My husband and I visited in December 2023 and it's a city I could have spent a month in! We loved that it was a slower season, the Christmas lights and celebrations throughout the city, and experiencing the culture. Check out my “SPAIN” highlight on my Instagram for more pictures of our exploring!There's so much rich history and beautiful architecture around every corner! We spent so much time walking around and exploring the city, popping into whatever caught our eye for a bite to eat. The food is incredible, residents were very kind and *seemed* to appreciate the efforts to speak Spanish – mine is not very good, but I did my best and got us around!
I LOVE to Cruise! I just got back from my 8th cruise- my second this year alone! So I've figured out some great hacks for Cruise Ship Living! Here's what I recommend to make life a little easier!
Here are my recommendations for products I use while traveling that help keep me organized, as well as what I find to be really helpful to make travel less stressful.
Ever heard of The Bean? Just kidding, of course you have. Check out these out-of-the-box suggestions that you might not have heard of from a local Chicagoan.
Level up your beach experience with this high-energy selection of essentials made for sun lovers, wave chasers, and sand-between-your-toes adventures. Each pick is chosen to keep you protected, organised, stylish, and ready for a full day of ocean fun.
My first trip to Universal Orlando was unforgettable! The park had incredible rides, immersive worlds, and thrilling experiences. There were so many attractions to enjoy, but a few stood out so much that I know I’d definitely do them again.
Travelling with a toddler can be challenging, so these are my favourite toddler travel essentials that make trips easier. From flight entertainment and snack containers to practical mum travel must-haves, these products help keep toddlers happy and parents stress-free on flights, road trips and holidays.
A summer trip to Disney World is full of magic, adventure, and plenty of sunshine! With long days in the parks, warm temperatures, and afternoon rain showers, having the right items on hand can make your vacation much more comfortable and enjoyable. Use this shopping list to make sure you're prepared for everything from thrilling rides and character meet-and-greets to staying cool and hydrated throughout your Disney adventure. 🌞🏰✨
I am Chicago born and raised, spent the middle chunk of my life in the suburbs just outside, but was in the city regularly until I moved back after high school. Chicago is my favorite city, and will always be home. This is how a laidback local enjoys the city
A curated collection of my go-to travel essentials! From carry-on musts to comfort hacks and on-the-go beauty, these picks make every trip smoother, lighter, and more enjoyable. Bon voyage!
Planning a trip to Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park and not sure what to bring? I showed up my first time in running shoes and a cotton hoodie, and by the time I reached the viewpoint I was soaked, freezing, and my phone was dead. Took me three visits to nail the perfect packing list. Save yourself the trial and error before your BC trip.
My personal edit of where to stay, eat, and sip across Arizona — the quietly luxe spots I send friends to when they visit. Every one is a place I've actually been and would happily go back to.
This list includes some of my favorite places that are either not in the local NKY/Cincinnati area or are out of state. This list includes Evansville, Indianapolis, Nashville, Louisville, Richmond, Columbus, and more 🙌🏼
Explore Clemson like a local! I’ve put together my favorite places to eat, drink and play, think cozy cafés, scenic hikes and unique shops, all within a short drive of campus. These are the spots I take friends when they visit, so you’ll experience the Upstate beyond the usual tourist stops. Scroll through and click on each listing for my personal notes and tips.
Your bag does not need a drawer’s worth of tangled chargers. Build a smaller travel tech kit with compact organizers, USB-C charging gear and optional helpers for flights and hotel stays. Reddit packing discussions inspired the questions; brand pages help you compare the choices. Choose one pouch and the charging tools your devices need, then add only what your trip calls for. Check connectors, power requirements, bag space and destination compatibility. These are researched picks, not personal-use reviews. I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through these links.
Fall is one of our favorite season. The colorful transformation and shredding of leaves, a beautiful sunrise/sunset and cooler temperatures. Here’s the stuff we love to do and maybe you can too.
Headed to Myrtle Beach? Whether you’re here for a quick weekend or a whole week, there’s plenty to do besides just sitting in the sand (though we’re all for that too). Here’s my laid-back list of must-do spots and activities that’ll make your trip way more fun.
Growing up in Long Beach allowed me to spend plenty of time in LA and OC. While I live in OC now, I love visiting LA for the day and enjoying the culture and food.
We’re officially on the hunt for stamps! The 2025 Medina County Brewery Passport is back for its 5th year, and this list includes every participating brewery where you can sip, stamp, and repeat. Visit each location, buy a beer, and collect 2 stamps total per brewery throughout the season. First 500 people to complete their Passport score an invite to the legendary wrap-up party at Blue Heron in August. Grab your free Passport book at any participating brewery and let the local craft beer adventure begin. Cheers to the hoppiest summer yet! 🍺
Sometimes the best way to keep stress at bay is a quick escape and some chill time in nature. Here's everything I did and recommend on my recent trip to Sequim and the Olympic Peninsula. This was my second trip to the Olympic Peninsula, and I'm sure there will be more! The goal of this trip was to go slow, experience unique places, watch the sunset over the water, and spend time in the lush green forests of the peninsula. This region is so green and has such great scenery, I can physically feel myself loosen up and get lighter just driving into the area.
I’d keep this list saved for the trip. It brings together interesting sights, local character, and places worth exploring, with hotel options that make it easy to relax between exploring, sightseeing, and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Planning a trip to Monkey Mia and Shark Bay but overwhelmed by what to bring, where to eat, and what not to miss? I spent a week there and came back sunburned, sandy, and completely hooked. This is everything I wish someone had told me before I booked the flight from Perth.
The girls who travel, travel. This is an ongoing list of all of my favorite things that make traveling often a bit easier! I am always on a plane going some place or another because of my job, and my health. These things lighten my load 💘
Wondering where stay in Croatia? I've got you covered this list ranges from popular tourist locations to a more quiet escape! All of these locations are based on the coast of Croatia so you will be getting sun and sea everywhere you go! But remember to bring your pebble shoes because these beaches in Croatia are rocky not Sandy!
Everything you need for the perfect beach escape; from sun hats and swimsuits to must-have travel essentials. Curated for style, comfort, and effortless packing.
Ohiopyle, located in the Laurel Highlands region of the Pennsylvania has been regarded as the #1 small town in the Northeast. It's an absolutely fantastic destination for those who love the outdoors and adventure seeking. You can hike trails for days, head down the river on a raft, or explore the rock climbing routes. We hope you love this area just as much as we do!
Keep your family safe on the road with the car gear I trust. These are the best dash cams, portable jump starters, all-weather floor liners and cargo carriers for road trips, worth the investment for peace of mind. Great gifts for new drivers, commuters and families who drive a lot. #dashcam #carsafety #roadtrip #caraccessories #jumpstarter
Stop overpacking and start traveling smoothly. This is my highly-curated list of must-have gear and gadgets for maximizing comfort and minimizing stress on any trip, from weekend escapes to long-haul flights. Everything you need to stay organized, charged, and ready for adventure.
After working in Vail, Colorado for 10 summers I truly believe that Vail is best seen in the light of the summer sun. There is definitely more than just skiing. Horseback riding, farmers markets, hiking, concerts, swimming, shopping, eating and truly enjoying every aspect of Vail. In this list, I provided some of my favorite restaurant recommendations and links to all things Vail through their municipality websites. I've also provided some links to transportation if you would rather not drive through the mountains I hope you get a chance to discover Vail in the summer. It is truly a magical experience.
This is the kind of place where… a quiet park, a glowing night market, and a comfortable room can all become part of the same Hong Kong memory. I put this list together from the spots that balance local energy with little chances to pause, so it feels useful for both exploring and settling in.
There are more beach getaway destinations on the east coast than just Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head, Cocoa Beach, and Miami. Here are some others you should check out!
Nestled in the Cuyamaca Mountains just east of San Diego, Julian is a dreamy escape that feels like stepping back in time. Think apple pies, mountain trails, old gold mines, starry skies, and quiet corners you’d never find in a travel guide.
Spend the perfect getaway in the unique city built on a lagoon: Venice. Spritz, Tiramisu, art & romantic views overlooking the canals 💓 ps: i attended uni here :)
From Cocoa Beach to Clearwater, a great Florida beach day is just a short drive from Kissimmee — but a smooth one comes down to packing right. After countless beach trips with my family, these are the Amazon essentials that keep us cool, sun-safe, and organized in the sand. Everything ships fast to your Poinciana, Kissimmee, or Orlando home before your next coast run.
My necessities when I travel whether I’m flying or going on cruise I am prepared. My list contains products that help me organize my luggage and my home away from home. I also have items that give me comfort when I travel.
We’re going full city escape mode✈️ These are the cities I’ve visited in the past year with all of the places I recommend to visit, eat and see across Europe🇪🇺
Some links on this list are affiliate links, so I may earn a commission. Aiken is a small Southern town with big horse-country history. Thoroughbreds train here every winter, thousands of acres of riding trails start right at the edge of downtown, and the gardens on old Gilded Age winter estates are free to wander. Here's where to eat, stay and explore in Aiken, SC.
Costa Maya is one of those cruise ports where packing the right things makes your day 10x easier. Whether you’re heading to Kohunlich, Chacchoben, Bacalar Lagoon, or staying inside the port, this list covers everything you’ll actually use — no fluff, no overpacking. After multiple trips to Costa Maya (and trying every type of excursion), these are the items I always bring.
Making the move Down Under? 🇦🇺 As an American who relocated to Sydney, I’ve learned firsthand which essentials make life so much easier when you first land. This list covers the must-haves — from adapters and banking hacks to everyday items that are surprisingly pricey or tricky to find in Australia. Think of it as your shortcut to settling in smoothly without the stress (or the sticker shock).
Verona is my place. Any time I travel to Europe I make stop in Verona for a few nights. This year I stayed in Verona for a total of 10 days - only 4 were actually planned, but I couldn't resist returning. Beautiful architecture, incredible piazzas, friendly people, conveniently located to other cities. What I think I love most about Verona is it's compact - yet expansive - size. Easily walkable - if you're like me and enjoy walking, yet even after visiting for years I still find parts of the city I never knew existed.
As an Alabama native, I am here to show you why Alabama is called “the beautiful.” From the white-sand beaches to the rolling mountains in the north, Alabama has been blessed with gorgeous scenery making it a great destination for any traveler looking for a weekend getaway.
As a Kansas City resident for nearly a decade AND a transplant, I have stayed in my fair share of Kansas City hotels. My family has as well. KC truly has so many special neighborhoods, which is why I split up this list into sections by neighborhood. If you are asking for my favorite area, I would say the Plaza. It holds a special place in my heart, because I lived there for 5 years and have so many wonderful memories there. Enjoy your next trip to KC!
You know that sinking feeling at the check-in counter when the agent points at the scale and your bag is 4 pounds over? I was paying $50 to $100 in overweight fees almost every trip, sometimes more than the flight itself. This list is for frequent flyers, vacation over-packers, and anyone who has ever sat on a suitcase in an airport trying to redistribute socks. Took me about two years of trial and error, so grab what you need before your next trip.
Lake Geneva is a true gem. An easy drive from Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison and Rockford. Plenty of shopping, dining and recreation. It has changed over the years. Let me suggest some things (old and new) you’ll love.
I love a good vacation when life gets overwhelming. Here I list must stay locations for that cozy vacation in Kenya. Best time to visit the Kenyan coast is from November to March (for nice hot weather).
Looking for the perfect vacation or day trip destination? Take some inspo from Taylor Swift and her art, sorted by era! This list also includes some places Taylor has eaten at or visited outside of professional work, with some of her longtime faves listed at the end. I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase with one of these links - thank you for your support <3
Whether you’re visiting Orlando or are a local looking for something new to do, or somewhere new to eat, this list might have something that will pique your interest. Most are within 30 minutes to 1 hour from downtown Orlando, depending on traffic.
Knowing what to pack for your Disney World vacation can be overwhelming. If this is your first trip, I've got you! This list should help you get started, but don't let it stress you out. Even if you forget something it is easy to have items delivered to you at the resort or even pick things up in the gift shop.
Welcome to the coziest season of all! This list is your all-in-one guide to embracing fall’s crisp air, vibrant colors, and heartwarming traditions. From chasing the best foliage in hidden gem destinations to whipping up soul-soothing recipes, planning spooky Halloween fun, and curating perfect weekend getaways, these are some handpicked recommendations capture everything that makes autumn unforgettable.
Planning a hike to Vestrahorn at Stokksnes and not sure what to bring? The black sand beach looks magical in photos but the wind will knock you sideways, the weather flips every twenty minutes, and your phone battery dies in the cold. I spent weeks researching and still got a few things wrong. Here is everything I actually used, wish I had sooner, and what saved me out there so you can skip my trial and error.
Nelson County is one of Virginia's hidden gems, and our home. We love welcoming visitors to our guest cottage, and guiding them to all the wonderful local business the county has. It's easy to spend a week exploring this tremendously beautiful county!
Every beach trip used to end the same way. Lukewarm water by noon, soggy sandwiches floating in melted ice, and someone suggesting we just go buy drinks from the overpriced snack bar. I burned through three cheap coolers in two summers before I finally figured out what actually works. This is the full beach day setup that keeps everything cold, organized, and sand-free, built from real trial and error so you can skip the expensive mistakes.
From the Stanley craze to the AirTag obsession, these are the travel essentials TikTok made famous — pack like the internet's favorite frequent flyers in 2026.
🚗 If your car has become a second home for your kids, you're not alone ❣️
Between toys, snacks, water bottles, random little treasures, and everything we need when we're out with the kids, keeping the car organized and clean can feel impossible.
Here's a great car organization list made to make everyday errands a little easier. From backseat organizers to car trash bins and storage solutions, these are products worth exploring if you're ready to spend less time searching for things and more time enjoying the ride.
I've lived in Bondi for over 25 years and there is a lot more to see in Bondi and it's surrounds than what you see on Instagram. Discover the best of Bondi with my curated list of top things to see, do, and experience - to give you a feel for the real Bondi beyond the tourist trail. If you want a full guide for Bondi, visit my etsy store and download the guide with free Google Maps bonus. See details below in the activities section.
Planning a Nile river stop at Kom Ombo and wondering what to actually bring? I showed up my first time with flip flops, no sun protection, and a dead phone battery. Learned every lesson the hard way so you can skip the sunburn and the regret. Whether you're on a Nile cruise or doing a day trip from Aswan, grab these before you board.
When we first got into backpacking we were broke and bought products on the cheaper side. Some worked out most of them didn't. We then researched and bought quality. Sometimes that worked and sometimes it didn't. Eventually we found what worked for us. Weight played a big factor along with durability. These are products I love and stand by.
Sink Your Teeth Into Georgia: A Vampire Diaries and The Originals Fan’s Dream Tour 🧛♀️🩸
Step into Mystic Falls and live out your vampire fantasies! Here you have everything you need for the ultimate Vampire Diaries-themed getaway to Georgia. From iconic filming locations in Covington, Conyers and Atlanta to must-visit cafes, shops, and spooky spots straight out of the show.
After getting stuck with a dead battery on an icy morning, I built a winter kit for every car in our family and have never regretted it. These are the jump starters, tire inflators, ice scrapers, and emergency supplies I keep in the trunk from November to March, so a cold weather surprise becomes a small inconvenience instead of a crisis. Share your must-have winter car item in the comments!
(This list contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)
Student-approved spots in and around Texas Tech University in Lubbock, TX — game day staples, iconic eats, museums, and hidden gems. Perfect for new students and visiting family.
I'm an Ohio girl and Springfield is one of my favorite easy day trips — it's got way more going on than people give it credit for. This is my personal list of the places I'd actually take a friend, from the spots worth wandering to the restaurants I keep going back to. Save this for your next free Saturday!
Visiting Lake George, NY is a childhood right of passage around where I'm from. It's just far enough away from Manhattan, yet not so far you feel like you're in the car forever during a road trip. You can find some of my favorite places to stay, things to do, and places to eat in my curated list!
A cruise…an amazing getaway! We are lucky to live in Florida where it is pretty convenient to go on a cruise. Along the way I have discovered some helpful items to bring on a cruise to help with organization and off boat excursions.
A few quiet coastal places in Monterey/Pacific Grove that just felt good for the soul—simple, pretty, and so easy with little ones. A must for any nature lovers who enjoy a slower vibe. 🌅
Funny thing is, you would think after living here for 4 years I would know more about the area, butttt I am very much a homebody so these are the cards I'm dealt. In any regard these are the spots an introverted Colorado transplant has experienced.
Spent about 3 weeks in October 2024 solo-travelling in Perth and Western Australia! Here's some of my highlights to give you some inspo 🦘 Also 11/10 getting a rental car. Public transit within Perth is great but there's so much more to explore outside of the city that would take forever to access without a vehicle.
✨ Looking for the perfect backdrop to capture timeless senior photos? St. Louis is filled with stunning parks that offer everything from lush gardens and open fields to unique architecture and scenic city views. Whether you want a natural, whimsical look or a bold, urban vibe, these must-visit parks provide the perfect mix of beauty and variety to make every senior session unforgettable.
I feel like I am alway on the go on the weekend!! I moved 5 hours from my hometown and all of my friends are spread over the US. Here are a few items that help me to feel comfortable when taking some short weekend trips to see friends and family.
A friendly little shortlist for planning a memorable stay. Along with historic landmarks, charming streets, and local character, there are hotel options that give you a comfortable base between all the things you want to see and do.
From tapas to tours, this is your one stop shop guide to experience and taste everything Barcelona has to offer! After living in Barcelona for several months, I found so many gems that you need to check out!
Fancy a relaxed break in Richmond, London, United Kingdom? You've got riverside scenery, a large royal park and a village feel to enjoy, plus a handful of nice hotels to come home to.
Discover some of South Africa's most unique, quirky and unforgettable places to stay! From charming countryside cottages and dreamy treehouses to unusual boutique stays, hidden gems, off-the-grid escapes and beautifully restored retreats, I've curated a collection of special accommodation spots worth adding to your South African travel bucket list. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend away, a scenic road trip or simply looking for somewhere a little different, these are some wonderful places to experience the beauty, character and magic of our beautiful country.
We just bought an RV and this is the list of items that we ultimately purchase before we picked it up and went camping for the first time. I am an Amazon affiliate and may receive a small commission at no cost to you if you choose to purchase items on this list.
I love and live in the Denver Metro Area. Denver is the home of some fantastic Micro Breweries, and things to do and eat at. These are some of my favorites.
Planning a Saqqara day trip sounds simple until you're standing in 110-degree heat with dead phone batteries, no shade, and a guidebook that explains nothing. I burned through two miserable visits before I figured out the gear, timing, and resources that turned this into one of my favorite days in Egypt. If you're heading to the Step Pyramid or the Serapeum and want to skip the suffering phase, start here.
As a motion sickness girly, I have to make sure I am extra prepared for long and short travel days. All of these Items I have tried and worked.They have made my life much easier so hopefully you find something that works for you.