I absolutely love to travel. These are some of my favorite vacation spots. I am sharing our accommodations, some of the restaurants and the sites I visited. Feel free to ask questions if you are planning to visit.
I was in the middle of moving; ALL of our clothes except for a weeks worth of clothes were at the new house. Then there was the flood that blocked us in together in a separate town from our main belongings, my boyfriend couldn't get home, my roommate couldn't leave work. Then I had vacation. I was stressed and didn't have any excitement in me to shop. These are things I longed for throughout my trip. I went to California for four days; Disney park with rides, TMZ tour in Hollywood. Then I went on a cruise for eight days; Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta. A mixture of window shopping and what I would buy if I went again
One of the things I love is going on vacation to beautiful beach destinations. The one place I absolutely fell in love with immediately was Maui, Hawaii. It was honestly a life-changing experience for me. If you're looking to take a trip now or in the future, here are some logistical considerations, awesome things to do, places to eat, and things to see while you're there. This list contains affiliate links. If you purchase any of the items on this list, I may receive modest compensation, at no additional cost to you.
A focused selection of books, maps, and travel accessories that pair well with Rick Steves Paris (Rick Steves Travel Guide). Each item supports smoother navigation, better communication, and safer days out in the city.
Planning a canoe trip through Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) sounds simple until you're sunburned, dehydrated, and your phone is at the bottom of a gorge. I spent two weeks in the Northern Territory and learned every lesson the hard way so you can show up prepared. Whether you're flying in from the US or Europe, this is everything I wish someone had told me before I launched that first canoe.
Everything you need to know about my ski trip.
This is the ultimate guide to our family’s Park City, Utah ski and snowboard trip—packed with all our top recommendations to ensure your experience is seamless and unforgettable!
Cultural attractions, hidden gems, restaurants, cafes, you name it, and I have it! I think of this as a re-curated version of the Bangkok travel guides I have on my blog. Browse directly on here, or you can always learn more about anything at https://polyglotpetra.com/things-to-do-in-bangkok-for-solo-travelers/
Planning a Luxembourg trip and wondering where to eat beyond the tourist traps? I spent two weeks there expecting tiny portions from a tiny country — wrong. My belt buckle learned that lesson fast. Whether you're a weekend visitor or doing a longer Euro trip, this is the lineup of spots and foods that made me rethink everything I assumed about Luxembourgish cuisine. Save yourself the trial and error I went through.
Are you a Disney lover like me?! We’ve been on multiple trips the last few years with our twins. We’ve got several things that make our park day easier!
A collection of travel essentials that actually make things feel easier, calmer, and more manageable. Everything here is something I personally use, love, or look for when I’m traveling as someone with AuDHD. These are the kinds of items that help reduce overwhelm, keep things organized, and make the whole experience feel a little less chaotic. From comfort pieces to practical essentials, each item is here for a reason. Less stress, fewer lost things, and more support for the way our brains actually work. Simple, functional, and designed to make travel feel better.
Ready for a mix of relaxation and history in Hermann, Missouri? This list has you covered. It's all about finding peace at wellness retreats while soaking in the charm of historic sites and cool monuments. Get ready for some serious chill time combined with a bit of a history lesson.
Target Audience: Outdoor enthusiasts, vehicle-based campers, weekend road trippers, and digital nomads who love hitting the open road without giving up modern convenience and comfort.
Heading out off-grid or pulling over for a spontaneous overnight stay requires gear that is rugged, quick to set up, and reliable. This guide highlights fifteen high-utility Amazon finds tested across miles of highway, campsite setups, and backcountry weekends.
I love traveling and getting to see new places and try new things. I’m taking my first abroad trip in October— I’m so exited! Therefore I have been doing research on what I should bring or may need. This list is a combination of travel essentials I use and trust, as well as items I will be getting for my first international trip! ✈️🌍
When the weather is nice, I prefer to spend less time on my phone and more time outside touching grass. 🌱Buuuuut I live in Atlanta, so outside is HOT. Like, unbearably hot. Lip gloss, my phone and my wallet are simply not enough. I need to pack my entire room into my purse every time I go out because I like to be prepared for anything. This is a list of essentials I refuse to leave the house without this summer.😌
If you're heading to Knoebels in Elysburg, PA.. Mount Carmel is right down the way. From high attractions to some mom and pop shops! Budget friendly and must sees!
Looking for things to do in Downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota? All of these areas are within walking distance of eachother and host a wide variety of options! From running and biking trails along the mississippi to museums, bars, and entertainment. It's a great little city sleeper city.
bury me in northern california. this lists is comprised of some of my favorite outdoor areas, and places to recoup and recharge along the way. my love for northern ca grows and grows! i've spent so many weekends in these places, the northern ca wilderness holds such a special place in my heart. add these recs to your to-visit list for incredible views and the perfect day out.
I’ve relied on these essentials for countless road trips across the U.S. and journeys through nearly 10 countries. They keep me comfortable, fresh, and ready for whatever adventure comes next — simple, dependable, and travel-tested.
When I'm in the SF Bay Area, you can find me at one of these locations with a book in hand sipping something delicious. Bring a book or play and meet me here!
Quieter, less overwhelming places that work better for sensory-sensitive kids. Autism-friendly parks, trails, and indoor spots in Hamilton, Ontario — mom-tested with my sensory-sensitive 7-year-old.
Gettysburg has beautiful scenery, tons of cool brick architecture, and obviously Civil War history. These are our top recommendations for Gettysburg after a handful of visits.
🌿Embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda? You certainly won't regret it, it's one of the most amazing experiences of my life! This board has everything you need to ensure comfort in the lush wilderness of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Gear up, trek smart, and meet the mountain gorillas! 🦍 Remember all clothes need to be in natural tones - no brightly colored pieces.
🐝✨ Looking for local favorites and hidden gems in Lee County, Iowa? You've come to the right place!
As a local mom, I love discovering the small businesses, unique attractions, family-friendly destinations, delicious food spots, and community events that make Southeast Iowa special. 💛 From scenic Mississippi River views and outdoor adventures to charming boutiques, local eateries, and annual festivals, this list is full of places worth checking out!
Whether you're a local looking for something new or visiting the area and wondering what to do, I hope you'll discover a few new favorites. Support local, explore more, and Bee Inspired! 🐝
These are our favorite travel items as parents of a two year old that goes with us EVERYWHERE. From roadtrips to flying, and everything in between these are our tried and true items.
🌵 For the person who is always planning the next national park trip: 15 thoughtful gifts, from small keepsakes and personalized memories to cozy home finds and creative projects. Choose a memento of their favorite park, a useful way to record adventures, or an activity for a future ranger. Browse by recipient and occasion rather than buying more trail gear they may already own. Researched gift ideas, not personal-use reviews.
I can say I am Disney obsessed and maybe a little bit of an expert about navigating the parks. At least I like to think so lol. Here are some of my must Dos, Sees, and Eats while at Disneyland and California Adventures.
I may pack light but I still pack a lot. It's magic. I aim for convenience and ease of use. I don't like lugging too much stuff around. Through trial and error, here's everything I bring and use.
Pai, Thailand. A hippie’s haven. A backpacker’s paradise. A vegan’s bliss. Pai is a gorgeous, sleepy mountain town ~3 hours north of Chiang Mai. Okay, let’s get one thing straight. Pai is not authentic Thailand. Yes, it’s technically in Thailand. Yes, it’s absolutely beautiful up in the mountains. Yes, some Thai people live there. But as anyone who visits sees, it is built for backpackers, for foreigners. I was shocked when I arrived and all the signs were in English lol! Don’t get me wrong, I LOVED my weekend there. But it’s not Thai.
My friend hit the nail on the head when she compared Pai to an episode of Black Mirror. It is like a utopia, a break from reality. There’s a running joke that people end up staying in Pai much longer than they originally planned. The easy lifestyle pulls you in. If you’re backpacking Southeast Asia, you have to visit Pai. It is a right of passage. One weekend is plenty of time to stay in Pai, but I’m warning you, you will definitely want to stay longer! Keep reading to have as an amazing time as my best friend Sydney and I did!
I travel often with my family and these are some of our must haves for travel. These recommendations can really be used to make any flight a bit more comfy, but they are a GAME CHANGER for long flights.
Planning an Interrail or backpacking trip? This list covers all the travel essentials you actually need—no overpacking, just smart, practical items that make life on the road easier. From space-saving gear to comfort and safety must-haves, these picks are perfect for train travel, hostels, and long days exploring. Whether you’re traveling Europe or going on your first backpacking adventure, these essentials will keep you organized, comfortable, and ready for anything.
Fourteen hours crammed into economy with swollen ankles and that weird tingling feeling in your calves. Sound familiar? I fly transatlantic three or four times a year and spent way too long wearing the wrong socks, buying the wrong neck pillow, and arriving looking like I aged ten years. This is everything I actually pack now after years of trial and error. If you have a long haul coming up, grab what you need before you're panic-shopping at the airport.
Sydney holds such a soft spot in my heart — it's where I met (& married!) my husband, where I ‘grew up’ and where I lived before moving to London… so many of my greatest joys were found there. This list isn’t a “must-see” guide, but rather the places that made my everyday feel special: the cafes I’d frequent, the coastal walks I’d take when I needed fresh air, and the little bookshops and corners that always felt like home. If you ever find yourself in Sydney, I hope these spots give you the same cosy feeling they gave me. ✨☕📚
Got stuck on a highway off-ramp for four hours last February with nothing but a half-empty water bottle and a phone at 12% battery. Never again. This is everything I crammed into a bag under my driver's seat so I'm not that person shivering on the shoulder waiting for a tow truck. If you drive anywhere between November and March, steal this list before the first freeze catches you off guard.
As a travel agent I travel a lot. So, I always need to make sure I have enough products with me to last the duration of my vacation. I have shared my must haves on all vacations in this list. I even have must haves just for cruising.
My Dominion approved guide to Los Angeles. Moody cafes, gothic cocktail bars & underground speakeasies for the ones who belong in the dark. My favorite dark & moody things to do in LA.
After years of trial-and-error packing, I’ve narrowed down the gear I always keep in my travel backpack—no matter the destination. These are the items I trust for flights, road trips, day hikes, or working remotely. Every piece earns its weight by solving a problem, adding comfort, or keeping me organized. Whether you're packing for a weekend or working on the road full-time, this gear setup keeps things simple, compact, and ready for anything.
This list brings together Florida’s most iconic, beautiful, and unforgettable experiences—from natural springs and historic cities to theme parks, beaches, wildlife encounters, and hidden gems. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, these must-see destinations capture the magic, adventure, and sunshine that make Florida one of the world’s top travel spots.
These are some of my top things in the Central Florida area that aren’t your normal tourist attractions. (If a theme park restaurant or mainstream place is on the list it’s because it is truly worth it!)
St. Louis has become one of my favorite cities to visit. My daughter lives here, and every trip gives us a chance to discover something new. From great restaurants and unique attractions to local favorites and unforgettable experiences, this list includes some of the best things to do in St. Louis whether you're visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay. This list contains affiliate links. (ad)
For the 2024 Holiday season, I traveled to Europe. These are all the places I went and things I did. The total trip with air fare for 2 people for 16 days in 4 countries, including spending money, came to just over 13k.
Everything we actually pack and use while camping across the country with our family, from our tent and power station to cozy campfire reading essentials. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Everything you need to know and have, to plan the best road tri with your dog! Want a more in depth guide? Read our full post here > https://officertravels.com/plan-a-road-trip-with-a-dog/
So you booked the quad bike excursion in Hurghada and now you're staring at your suitcase wondering what you actually need out there. The desert sun hits different than the beach, sand gets into places you didn't know existed, and nobody warns you about the wind chill on the ride back. I figured all this out the hard way so you can show up ready instead of sunburned and miserable.
I have been going to Traverse City every summer since I was 12. My children now take their children to visit TC. It is the most magical place with the most beautiful Family memories. It holds a very special place in my heart and is definitely one of my “Happy Places”
My best friends live in Bend, Oregon, so I'm there A LOT. But I'm not always doing touristy stuff! So this list is … less bloggery and more tom foolery like a local.
I've lived in Denver for several years now and here are my favorite outdoor activities, ice cream places and skiing places. I will keep adding more places to this list. Enjoy and let me know if you liked any of the below recommendations.
Free and cheap things to do in NYC this fall and holiday season, for when you want a cute day out without spending the bank. Parks, views, markets and the classic NYC moments that cost little or nothing. Hours and dates change, so check before you go. Look expensive, save the bank. 🍂
We recently visited Angel Fire, New Mexico for a Ski Trip and these are my recommendations for must haves for adults and kiddos. These are all items that we personally used and tested out on our vacation!
Places that I have been to in Oregon. My experience was magical and will forever be cherished. I think everything about that trip was worth it. Portland was super cute, had great food, and the views were top tier with the waterfalls and beautiful trees.
My go-to Lower Manhattan loop — Tribeca brunches and old-school saloons, Battery Park City waterfront walks, Wall Street history and power lunches, then cobblestones and harbor views at the Seaport. These are the downtown spots I actually send friends to.
It is time to light up the Bayou. From bonfires on the levee to lit up oaks and gumbo under twinkling lights. Whether you’re here for the small-town magic or city lights, this list will keep you busy through the whole holiday season.
Planning a trip to Siwa Oasis and the Cleopatra Spring pool but have no clue what to bring? I spent weeks overthinking my packing list before my first desert trip to western Egypt. Sand, heat, salt lakes, cold desert nights. It's not your typical beach vacation and regular travel gear won't cut it. I made every mistake so you can skip straight to the good stuff before your trip.
In my travel era!! Trying to see as much of the world as I can before I settle down and start a family. I’ve been to Italy, Taiwan, Korea, Hawaii, Spain, Switzerland, Mexico, Aruba, and Vietnam in the last 4-6 years (didn’t leave the country until I was 24 years old).
I also fly pretty frequently to visit family in North Carolina and we used to go to Disney annually as a family so I’ve traveled quite a bit in the past few years!! Here are my travel must haves that I think may make your life easier too!
If you are planning a trip to Bloomsbury, London, United Kingdom, this list is full of comfortable places to stay with literary history, garden squares and the British Museum close by. Each hotel is a lovely option for resting well and heading out refreshed the next day.
We kicked off our Disney trip by flying Porter Airlines from Toronto to Orlando with our toddler, taking advantage of the free water park day at Typhoon Lagoon on check-in day, and settling into Port Orleans French Quarter. Here’s what we wore to the airport, what we packed for the hotel room (besides clothes), where we ate, and everything we brought to survive a water park with a 2-year-old.
I have chronic migraines and have to travel A LOT for work. I now have a “system” that makes packing and traveling with migraine a lot easier. Hope this helps you!
as the friend who always get asked for recommendations, here they are all bundled up for ya! after 2 years living in den and lots of exploring these are all my go to spots!
Looking for somewhere welcoming to stay? Jordan, Hong Kong offers classic Hong Kong eateries, street life and easy MTR access, and this list gathers hotels that make it easy to unwind after a day of exploring.
Your complete list of where to go, what to eat & what to pack for a vacation to Kauai! Kauai is INCREDIBLE and if it's not on your list to visit - please add it immediately! :)
Are you visiting Tarpon Springs, FL? Take it from a local, Tarpon is a small BIG greek town and has a ton of history. I haven’t discovered it all yet but follow along and I’ll list anything and everything I think is totally worth checking out.
As a family of 6 and an extended family of many more, these are the essentials when going to the beach, lake, river, anywhere with water. They make our day easier and save us so much hassle. We can spend more time enjoying ourselves in nature instead of worrying about the little things.
mallorca is one of the most beautiful places i’ve ever seen! i loved how versatile this island was from its gorgeous beaches, grand mountain ranges, deep history, and fun party scene. here’s everything i did / wish i could’ve done if i had more time!
Hocking Hills is a cheaper but extensive set of Midwest hiking trails. The trails are absolutely gorgeous with endless scenery. This was one of my favorite trips to do. If you are not a country or outside person this is not the trip for you. Fortunately/Unfortunately, there isn't much to do in the area beside outside activities. Most places and trails are dog friendly, IF YOUR DOG IS TRAINED!!!
All the fun places to see and explore for fun days out and about! Milwaukee has some really cool places to show your kids & a fun moms night out doesn't hurt 😁. Sharing some of the places we've explored before for your Milwaukee fun!
Everything here is sized and built for a carry on: hanging toiletry bags that work in a hotel bathroom with no counter space, leakproof bottles that clear the 3-1-1 liquids rule, and the travel-size basics worth packing instead of relying on hotel minis. It is for anyone who flies carry-on only and is tired of unzipping a bag to find shampoo everywhere.I am a Gold Amazon Influencer with 1,100+ product review videos and a mom of three, so packing light is something I have had to get good at. These are picked for size, leak resistance and whether they genuinely earn their space, with the honest caveats flagged where there are any.Contains affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Our car is basically a second home, between school runs, fishing gear, and trips to Charleston. These are the organizers and little problem solvers that keep it tidy, from the trunk bin that holds the grocery haul to the trash can that finally ended the wrapper situation.
Heading to Puerto Rico this January? 🌴✨ Here’s exactly what to pack for a stylish, comfortable, and stress-free trip -curated especially for solo female travelers. From breezy linen dresses and reef-safe sunscreen to compact safety gear and tropical-ready tech, this packing list blends style with strategy. January in Puerto Rico means warm days (75–85°F) and balmy nights - so think light layers, beach-to-dinner outfits, and versatile travel essentials that keep you confident and comfortable wherever the island takes you. 🩵 In this guide, you’ll find: 👗 Outfit staples for coastal adventures + café exploring 🎒 Must-have safety and travel accessories ☀️ Beauty + wellness picks for tropical weather 📸 Gear that helps you capture your solo momentsAll items are personally curated from my blog post “What to Pack for Puerto Rico in January: A Solo Female Travel Guide.” Use this list to plan your suitcase like a pro and travel boldly - because confidence looks beautiful on you. 💫 #PuertoRicoPackingList #SoloFemaleTravel #TravelEssentials #CoastlineAndCastles #TropicalTravel #WinterVacation #WhatToPack
First Disney World trip? The parks reward planning and punish winging it. This is the exact game plan I give every first-time family I work with — the apps, the timing tricks, and the two or three decisions that make or break the week. Do these and you'll look like a pro on day one. (Want me to actually plan it for you? I'm a travel advisor — booking with me costs you nothing extra.) get started at https://letsgowithbrent.com/quote
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Ventura has that perfect mix of beach-town chill and family fun. From amazing oceanfront restaurants and cozy coffee spots to kids’ sports, parks, and weekend adventures — this list has something for everyone.
Whether you’re jet-setting for a weekend getaway or hopping on a long-haul flight, these compact essentials will keep you organized, refreshed, and ready for anything.
Recently I traveled solo for the first time so I wanted to share some stuff that really helped me. Whether you’re flying or driving, these are my top recs for anxious travelers.
If I were packing for a trip today, these are the travel essentials I'd bring without thinking twice. I've chosen products that I believe make traveling more comfortable, organized, and stress-free, whether it's a weekend getaway, a business trip, or an international adventure. These are the travel items I'd personally recommend because they've earned a place on my packing list.
Being a full time photographer and blogger, I have travelled extensively for almost a decade with my partner and more recently with our dog - Lilly, it's fair to say we have stayed at quite a few hotels / air bnbs and campsites. This is a list of all the places that I have personally stayed in and have had a good experience within New Zealand.