As a seasoned solo traveler, I've curated a list of essentials that have made my journeys smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Whether you're embarking on your first solo adventure or you're a seasoned explorer, these recommendations will help you stay prepared and comfortable throughout your trip.
Being prepared for anything is something every driver needs to be ready for. Being the father of a daughter makes me realize how important knowledge and independence are when it comes to making sure your loved ones are safe and prepared for anything the open road has to offer. These are a few essentials EVERYONE should consider having in their car at all times. It could be the difference between fixing a simple flat to actually surviving a chaotic situation or scenario. As a Father, a Husband, a Brother and a Son, I hope you can find this helpful! Stay Safe!
I'd like to think Denver, Colorado is a hidden-gem city. For the longest time in my life, Denver was just a temporary stop on a trip elsewhere: from layovers to driving through to a ski resort... If you're ever lucky enough to plan a trip out there, this is my perfect 1-day itinerary for Denver!
Beach days with four little ones take real planning! These are the family beach essentials that make it doable: a pop-up beach cabana and umbrella, baby floats and swim diapers, sand shovels, kids swim coverups, cute swimsuits for mom, sunglasses, a portable charger and a speaker for the sand. Everything I'd pack for a stress-free day at the beach with toddlers.
Having lived in the Barossa Valley my whole life, I’ve been lucky enough to discover so many local gems that make this region special. From family-friendly spots to hidden treasures only locals know, here are my personal recommendations to help you experience the Barossa the way we do.
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!
Cassis is full of opportunities for peaceful harbor walks, dramatic cliff views, calanque trails, and easy places to stay. The little highlights I’d look forward to are It's a small, considered mix of lovely stops and practical bases rather than a grab-bag of attractions.
New to Kansas or just visiting? This list has the most see attractions, roadside stops, and hidden gems across the Sunflower State. From the Kansas State Fair to the Oz Museum. So let me convince you to visit Dorothy :)
Western Pennsylvania has many different tourist attractions and state parks to visit. Whether you like to ski in the winter, white water raft in the summer, visit a museum in the city, enjoy snapping photos of nature in the fall, camping in the spring, learning about history, or exploring something new…i tried to include something for everyone on my list to do.
Fall season means spooky season with a bunch of things to do. There's so much to explore and so little time. These are a few of the things I enjoy getting to during the Fall months. Some of these are spooky, others scary, and others are wholesome Fall family friendly events.
Living in Central Florida means surviving summers that feel like standing inside an oven. After years in Kissimmee and Poinciana, I've tested every cooling gadget and hack out there. These are the must-have products that actually keep you comfortable whether you're at the theme parks, working outside, or just trying to survive your backyard in July.
My recent trip to an all inclusive in Mexico has inspired me. As someone who grew up near the beach in Florida, let me be your guide to make sure you’re prepared for fun in the sun!
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.
Some things to do while visiting Sioux City, IA. There are many family friendly places and great places for a good date night! Checkout the Boathouse which is my favorite place :)
That 10km loop around Stanley Park looks easy until you're halfway through with blisters, a dead phone, and rain that showed up out of nowhere. If you're planning your first seawall walk in Vancouver BC and don't want to learn everything the hard way like I did, this is the gear, the food stops, and the spots I figured out after three painful attempts.
You know that moment on day three when your clean clothes and dirty clothes become one big mystery pile? I used to shove everything into hotel plastic bags that ripped open in my suitcase. After one trip where my muddy hiking socks contaminated a white dress, I finally figured out a system. This is for anyone who travels more than twice a year and is tired of coming home to a suitcase that smells like a gym locker.
Planning a trip to Luxor's ancient workers village but not sure what to bring, wear, or book? I spent three days wandering the West Bank tombs in 110-degree heat and figured out everything the hard way. This is for the history nerd who actually wants to explore Deir el Medina properly, not just snap a photo from the bus window. Save yourself the sunburn and the wrong shoes.
From sci-fi wonders to wild animal encounters, this guide is packed with must-see spots for families, nerds, and nature lovers. Dive into hands-on museums, explore hidden geeky gems, and meet incredible creatures—all in the heart of Atlanta!
Handpicked spots in Savannah GA where the vibe feels like a warm welcome. From peaceful parks to hidden cafes and laid-back restaurants, these are the places that help me unwind, recharge, and enjoy the simple moments in town.
Find local, family-friendly recommendations for living in Las Vegas. You'll find things to do with kids of all ages, fun activities and places to visit. These are local places found off The Strip..... and mostly on the west side where I am most familiar.
This is your ultimate guide to blending historical geekery with some serious pampering in Des Moines, Iowa. We'll uncover spots where you can dive deep into the past and then float away on a cloud of relaxation. Because let’s face it, even history buffs need a massage and a sauna session every now and then!
These are places I have stayed in and loved and 100% recommend for any travel lover. As someone who travels alot in Europe, sometimes its a hit or miss for hotels. However, when i come across a great hotel i ensure to recommend it to my friends and fellow travel lovers. So here are my list of hotels I have stayed in, that give luxury feel yet affordable and do not break your bank
Finland is a place of fairytales and dreams. It offers lots of brilliant cultural and foodie options as well as reindeer and forests that are like being in a postcard. And it has the Northern Lights!
Ever get back from a road trip and think, "I wish I had..."? This list is the answer to that question. After countless hours on the road, I’ve curated the ultimate collection of gear that has truly transformed my travel experience. These aren't just gadgets; they're the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. From staying organized to keeping comfortable, here’s the gear that has made a huge difference on my adventures.
A curated list of things to do & see in San Antonio and surrounding areas. Whether you’re here to visit or you’re new to the city, this list will give you ideas of what to do and where to go. San Antonio is the second biggest city in Texas, so you’ll never run out of things to do! Have fun exploring the city.
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.
I’d keep this list saved for the trip. It brings together green spaces, scenic views, and beautiful places to wander, with hotel options that make it easy to relax between exploring, sightseeing, and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Feeding six on the road is the biggest budget leak, so we pack a cooler and smart snack containers instead of hitting drive-thrus. These are the coolers, ice packs, snack cups and bottles that make it easy.
I'd use this as an easy Bayonne shortlist: atmospheric walks, standout culture, and stays ranging from simple doubles to a roomy apartment setup. I've kept the picks focused on places with one memorable reason to add them to your trip, rather than padding the list with every possible option.
I put this together for the kind of Amiens trip that mixes grand architecture with slower local wandering. These are the places I'd genuinely make room for, from the cathedral and Saint-Leu's colourful canals to a few easy hotel bases.
They say it's not the destination but how you get there. This is definitely both! Places to visit, stay and must do excursions! Countries organised in alphabetical order!
these are all the best hotels and resorts throughout Orange County - some are on the beach, some are near Disneyland, there's a good mix of everything!
I put this together for a Lille weekend that balances beautiful old buildings, genuinely worthwhile museums and easy hotel options. These are the places I'd point a friend toward when they want the city's character without wasting time on filler.
As someone who’s been traveling internationally and domestically since I was 2 (I actually learned how to walk in Spain!), here are the things I cannot travel without! These are all things that can be brought onto a plane. Enjoy!
Pai is a vibrant and groovy town in the north of Thailand, infamous for it's high backpacker scene and laid back atmosphere (literally saw a hippy the moment i got there). I would highly recommend renting an automatic scooter to get around as the GRAB app doesn't work in Pai, neither does GoJek. Try not to fall into the Pai-hole, best of luck!
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!
Skip the 40-piece organizer sets: a suitcase only needs about six jobs covered, and these picks from Away, Béis, Calpak and Monos do them best. Ranked by what earns daily use, from compression cubes and shoe bags to toiletry cases, tech pouches, passport wallets and luggage tags. Build the system once and every trip packs itself.
Welcome to my San Francisco Travel Guide! This curated guide is your ultimate resource for exploring the best of San Francisco. Inside, you'll find essential information on iconic attractions, world-class museums, outdoor activities, and top dining spots in the city.
Cruising on a budget: I've curated 17 family-friendly cars that offer practicality and affordability, sharing my candid thoughts on each to steer you towards the perfect ride without draining your bank
account!
Ready for an unforgettable artsy journey through Sitka, Alaska? This list is filled with unique museums and vibrant music spots that make Sitka a cultural gem. Whether it's marveling at historical artifacts, exploring local art, or getting lost in mesmerizing melodies, your trip is bound to be both enlightening and enchanting.
I've lived in Fort Madison for 20 years now and it's come a long way. We have newer schools, new housing developments, including new senior condos. Downtown is coming along, several great restaurants, and entertainment options! If you are in the area, be sure to check out my Lee County and Donnellson list as well!
My daughter & I are huge twenty one pilot fans. She’s been obsessed with them for 10 years and has begged to see a hometown show. In 2023 my daughter convinced my husband to take her to see them play a charity softball game. He ended up having a work trip that he couldn’t miss. She was devastated. So I convinced my son to come and we drove 19 hours to Columbus.
That trip I fell in love with Columbus, something I never thought I’d say. It’s the first city I could ever see myself living in.
We loved it so much in 2024 we went back to see 3 hometown shows. There probably won’t be anything earth shattering to most bust here are my favorite stops we made.
If you are visiting the UK or are already living here and haven't yet visited Newcastle upon Tyne, you are missing out. Note there are a few Newcastle's in the UK, I'm talking about the one up North full of Geordies.
Whether it's your first cruise or your next one as a woman fully walking in her power—this list was created to help you cruise in comfort, confidence, and Christ-like clarity. From must-have travel items to mindset resets, I’m sharing everything I bring to make my time at sea peaceful, stylish, and completely unbothered.
Fun holiday date ideas in and near Orlando for the 2026 season, split into paid activities, free activities, and theme parks. Every pick has the dates and price in the description so you can plan around your budget. Prices are per person and were checked November 7, 2026, so double check before you go!
I pulled together the Biarritz stops I'd actually want in one relaxed coastal trip, from dramatic viewpoints and ocean-focused museums to practical places to sleep. It's a deliberately balanced mix, with a few iconic sights and quieter, family-friendly picks so the list feels useful rather than predictable.
Supporting local is a big part of my everyday life. These are my favorite hometown gems — from small shops to everyday staples — that make our community feel special. I love sharing the spots and products that bring comfort, convenience, and joy right here close to home.
these are my tried-and-true favorites as a born-and-raised upper east sider! my favorite (and sometimes underrated) restaurants, and the touristy things that are ACTUALLY worth the money!
Curated picks for travelers who love scenic drives, small towns, and authentic Florida experiences. These guides and narratives complement Backroads of Florida - Second Edition with regional detail, road-trip itineraries, and deeper historical context across the Sunshine State.
Family fun in my own backyard. So many fun things to do and so many fun places to explore in our own community. I will never take for granted that my family and I live in such an amazing state. Check out what Southern CA has to offer. Whether you live here or plan to visit, we have beaches, lakes, mountains and the desert. We have Disneyland, Universal Studios and Knotts Berry Farm. We have high end stores and farmers markets and the best restaurants!
We visited the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge/Sevierville area in May 2026 and had the best time! It was my husband, by 15 month old and myself. Here's everything we loved that is NOT focused on the tourist traps, but I made sure to include some tourist traps we liked for funsies.
I love Colorado! I started loving it in the winter for skiing, then realized how beautiful and fun it is in the summer! Below is a list of some of my favorite things to do and places to stay in and around Breckenridge and Summit Country, CO.
If you’re in Lakeland for a dance convention or competition, these are my go-to spots for good food, easy stops, and small moments to unwind between routines. 🩰☀️
My favorite place to day-trip from the suburbs. About a 2 hour drive from where I am, about 20 minutes outside of Madison. Mount Horeb draws a lot of insperation from the Swedish ancestry of many of the settlers, which you will see when you visit from the Swedish gift store to the trolls around town to the shops all themed after their scandenavian roots.
My honest, lived in list of Vancouver favourites, from the parks and viewpoints we keep going back to, to the restaurants and little spots worth the trip. Everything here is somewhere I actually love, gathered for anyone visiting or new to the city.
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!
How to plan an Orlando, FL trip to Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure from a passholder who goes frequently! After all, it is the best theme park EVER. Fight me on it! 💪
I put this together for the Etretat day when you want more than the postcard view: dramatic cliff walks, quieter viewpoints, and memorable places to sleep. These are the spots I'd actually save for a coastal escape, with each pick chosen for one detail that makes it stand out.
Spacious and beautiful parks, covered bridges, and small town, independently owned businesses- you’ll never want to leave picturesque central Maryland!
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.
I have fallen in love with the city and these places so I gathered them here for you… all in one place.
From cute hidden places to see, local places to eat or to shop, my faves are all saved here!!
Hope you get to see a bit of what I live through this list <3
A handy collection for anyone planning a trip here. You’ll find green spaces, scenic views, and beautiful places to wander, plus hotel choices that can make the whole experience feel a little more relaxed and memorable.
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.
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.
Exploring George Town in Penang is a dream come true for photographers. Every corner offers something unique and picturesque. This list is all about the best spots where your camera will go crazy capturing the beauty, culture, and history. Get ready to snap away in this vibrant city full of stunning hotels and iconic statues and monuments.
Heading to Disney World? This is my family's tried-and-true Amazon packing list for surviving the Orlando parks — from portable chargers and rain ponchos to blister balm and cooling gear. Everything ships fast so you can check it all off before your Kissimmee or Lake Buena Vista vacation starts.
You don't have to drive two hours for that crystal-clear springs magic — Wekiwa Springs and Rock Springs at Kelly Park are 30 minutes from downtown Orlando. 72-degree water year-round, lazy-river tubing, clear-kayak tours, and real Florida wilderness. Here's how I'd plan the perfect springs day.
If you’re heading to Lucerne and love indulging in nature while enjoying some tasty treats and historic sights, this is the list for you. From gorgeous pastries to awe-inspiring monuments and scenic marketplaces, these recommendations will help you explore the best Lucerne has to offer in a cozy, personal way.
Discover the best playgrounds from my experience as a mom of two! From the pirate ship fun in Ipswich to the expansive natural setting of Danvers' Endicott Park, and the modern amenities at Amesbury Town Park Playground, these top-rated spots offer endless adventures for families.
After plenty of flights (including one of the longest flights in the world!), I've figured out exactly what makes travel days more comfortable. These are the in-flight essentials that always go in my personal item…from comfort and tech to snacks, beauty, and little things that make a surprisingly big difference once you're in the air.
✨"Curated spots I actually love in Jakarta — beautiful hotels, cozy cafes, rooftop bars, and must-visit places. Real recommendations from someone who lives here. Your go-to guide for exploring the city!" ✨