These are a lot of the places near my home that I have visited and LOVED! If you are in the area you definetly should visit. Or if you are in my area and haven't been to any of these this is your sign to GO! :)
Greenville SC has a lot to offer and has one of the best downtowns in the country. Located within a couple hours of Atlanta, GA, Charlotte, NC and Charleston, SC there is something for everyone including a vast array of culinary cuisines.
These are some of the happy places I visit! I'm a big fan of beautiful blues 🤩💙🦋 and sunshine ☀️ throw in a pristine beach 🏝️ and I'm the happiest girl on earth 🌎
Summer in the desert gets HOT, and when I lived in Tucson, I was constantly looking for a way to cool down (especially when my apartment pool was under construction 🥵). Here are 22 spots where you can cool off by a natural body of water near Tucson, AZ:
This list includes practical essentials for living in your car or traveling long-term, focusing on comfort, organization, and making small spaces work. From storage solutions and hygiene items to travel gear and safety must-haves, these are things that help make life on the road easier, cleaner, and more manageable day to day.
Branson is a huge tourist destination. Like any other, there are some popular attractions as well as lesser-known gems. This list combines both, highlighting some of our favorite aspects of the Branson, MO area in the heart of the Ozarks.
All the Brazil travel essentials you need to stay safe and comfortable! From travel gadgets to clothing, these are the items I pack every year when traveling to Brazil.
The essentials I always pack for comfort and ease. No matter how long or short the trip, these make sure that everything runs smoothly and that I have minimal annoyances.
Exploring Fort Collins with your camera? This list of wine and breweries, aquariums, zoos, spas, and wellness centers will help you find the most photogenic spots in the city. Each location offers something special, from serene landscapes to vibrant wildlife and relaxing scenes, ensuring you'll capture amazing photos on your trip.
Michigan offers a stunning mix of natural beauty, history, and charming small towns. I will give you some must see places to visit here in Michigan that showcase it’s diverse appeal.
As someone who has gone interrailing around Italy, as well as living there for over 6 months, I have a good idea about the best spots to stay & activities that are worth doing! I have a deeper knowledge of the North of Italy but I will continue to add reccomondations further south as I do more research :) … below you'll find hostel & activity recs by city! (I'll add more over time!)
I started solo traveling a few years ago and fell in love with it! I continue to solo travel all over the USA. Here are some must-haves I use when I travel alone.
I love to travel but it can get expensive, quickly! Here is what I do to save a bit of money as I go ✨ I’ve used these products for my most recent flight to DC!
Hoi An is known for 24H turnaround times for custom clothing, but the beaches near Da Nang is the real gem for me. Explore all that Central Vietnam has to offer while staying in Da Nang area.
I’ve stayed at dozens of hostels over my travels, and these are some of my favorites across the globe that have both nice amenities and vibrant social opportunities.
All of your Disney park needs for all elements and seasons. Can use for most amusement parks. We are annual pass holders who frequent Disney World year round and have gone with kids and without of all ages.
I love going to Lake Geneva on day trips. I love the library, taking a walk along the path, Seminary Park, Starbucks, and occasionally I go to the YMCA, though it’s a bit outdated. I’ve written in many secret spots in the city but I thought I would share some fun places I have enjoyed over the years.
I’ve picked up a few travel tricks over the years — especially after living in Europe and hopping between different climates and countries. These are the things I’ve tried, loved, and now never leave home without. If you’re looking to travel with ease and a bit of style, this list will help. When you click through and shop from these links, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
These are things I have consistently used in my 20+ years of traveling. These are some of the items that help make international travel easier and have saved me (like the packable duffel my brother made me buy in 2009.)
I'm a Florida girl, so I get asked all the time what visitors should actually do here. This is my honest short list — the spots I'd send my own family to, from theme parks to the prettiest beaches. Skip the tourist traps; these are the ones worth your time and money.
Things I love to do and places I love to do them!
Northern California is a beautiful are filled with natural wonder and great little gems. Give us a visit!
Paris is one of my favorite places and I think it might be my top traveled to city (7 times and counting) so here are some of my favorite things to do - some classic spots and some more niche recs
Bourges is full of opportunities for the cathedral and flower-filled gardens to cheerful squares and comfortable places to stay. The little highlights I’d look forward to are a few easy, practical stay options folded in.
We have traveled to Florida multiple times over the years for our family vacations, and these are our favorite places and things to do while visiting in Florida 🌴 We are heading to Key West in March, so we'll be adding new recs for Key West soon!
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.
If you're planning a visit to Pittsburgh or just looking to explore more of this vibrant city, you're in for a treat! I've put together a list of my favorite things to do around town that truly showcases the spirit of Pittsburgh. From the scenic views at Mount Washington to the bustling markets of the Strip District, and the rich history found at the Heinz History Center, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on the unique blend of cultural and outdoor activities, including a game at PNC Park or a leisurely stroll through the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. Dive into this list and discover the best of Pittsburgh, whether you're a history buff, art lover, foodie, or outdoor enthusiast!
As someone who was born and raised in Portland, Oregon these some gems of Oregon that you should know about before planning your trip here !!✈️ (in my opinion)
EDSEA Survival Guide 🚢🌊
Headed on the EDSEA cruise and want to feel fully prepared? This list is your ultimate survival guide for everything you’ll want, need, and be glad you packed. From cruise-day essentials and outfit must-haves to comfort items, organization tools, and underrated lifesavers — these are the products I personally recommend for the EDSEA experience.
I’m an EDSEA alumni and have been on all three EDSEA cruises, so every item here is chosen from real, firsthand experience — not guesswork. These are the essentials that made my trips smoother, more comfortable, and way more enjoyable at sea.
Whether it’s your first EDSEA cruise or you’re a returning guest, this guide is designed to help you stress less, pack smarter, and focus on what really matters: the music, the memories, and the experience.
✨ Tried, tested, and cruise-approved essentials
✨ Curated by a 3-time EDSEA alumni
✨ Save time, avoid overpacking, and feel prepared
As an avid traveler who finds any excuse to leave my city, I am trying to stock up on travel items that will 1. make my travels easier, 2. make my travels more fun, and 3. make my travels more aesthetic. This list is for my adventurers who love to see the world and want to look good doing it! Enjoy and happy shopping! 🛍️🛫🌎
Dive into the heart of Salzburg with these handpicked favorites. From enchanting hotels to breathtaking nature reserves and scenic routes, explore everything that makes Salzburg a cultural and natural treasure. These recommendations will make sure you catch the very best of what this magical Austrian gem has to offer.
Living life out here in the world, I am a basketball coach, writer, sports enthusiast (go bills), and lesbian with the “I can fix anything” syndrome and short hair, while really, I can not - but I am learning how to do more than just paint walls - plumbing and electric are where my girl and I draw the line, we call our neighbor handy Dan for that (literally his business name).
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 travel solo A LOT! I also have learned the hard way what gear works and what gear does not work! So I made this travel gear list that contains all my favorite MUST-HAVE items! They are items I have used multiple times!
I visited Hawaii years ago ON A BUDGET so this list is a lot of “what to do” and not so much “where to eat” since I was mostly eating free hostel pancakes and pasta I packed in my suitcase. But GOSH it was a good time!
Ready for some quirky fun in Frigate Bay? From diving into history with a splash of eccentricity to getting pampered like royalty (or at least pretending), this list has got you covered. We’re mixing up arts, music, and a whole lotta wellness with a sprinkle of laughs along the way!
After thousands of hours in the air as a flight attendant, I’ve learned a few items can make or break a long flight. These are the carry-on essentials that help you stay comfortable, sleep better, and arrive feeling human after long-haul travel.
Affiliate links-eligible for commission. I spend so much time in my car, driving to work, running errands, transporting kids and of course a good ‘ol road trip every now and then…that I had to make driving an “experience” with all the necessities and luxuries I might need (or just want). Hope it’s helpful!
Moving to a college town can be tought-especally for non-college students. Here are our favorite places around Tuscaloosa County for all of the different things needed in life.
This curated list of travel essentials for female travelers is designed for women who want to travel comfortably, safely, and stress-free. Every product is something I personally use and recommend practical travel must-haves for women, not trendy fillers.
I absolutely love to travel and explore places new to me! We've found the Caribbean to be a favorite place for us to visit while cruising.
I hope you get some ideas to add some fun to your life!
Family beach days can be magical — if you pack smart. These are my mom-tested essentials that make beach + pool days with kids way easier & less stressful. (I may earn a small commission if you shop.)
From foggy mornings and cafe hopping to scenic walks, local eats, and the energy of the night market, Baguio gave us the perfect blend of adventure and calm.
Discover the hidden gems in town with my curated picks for the best food spots, cozy coffee shops, and must-visit thrift stores. Whether you're craving the perfect latte, hunting for vintage treasures, or looking for your next favorite meal, I've got you covered. These local favorites bring together character, quality, and a true taste of the community.
Every year we visit Virginia Beach at least once. We have been going for years and look forward to experiencing new things as well as visiting some of our favorite places. We were recently there and are looking forward to going back again soon when we go for a sporting event. I'm sure I'll be adding more fun places after our next visitr, so come back to see more!
Bougie, Brunchin’, & Blazing: My Mother’s Day in Vegas
Vegas isn’t just for wild nights it’s for moms who need luxury, laughter, and a lil’ loud too. I traded flowers and breakfast in bed for dispensary runs, rooftop brunches, spa vibes, and a whole lotta glam. From catching a high with the city lights to catching flights with good energy, this Mother’s Day was everything but basic. Here’s where I stayed, what I did, what I smoked, and how I slayed the Strip mama style.
I often get asked “What should I do in Boulder?” And I always have a million ideas as someone who grew up there- now I can finally put all my favorites into one spot for you to plan the perfect Boulder, Colorado day. Whether you are visiting for the first time or taking an out-of-town friend, I’ve included a little something for everyone!
We had been looking forward to our Mother, Daughter Girls Trip to Anna Maria Island all year! It did not disappoint. I've never been to the West Coast of Florida - the water was literally like GATORADE blue, sand was so soft! We did our trip LATE APRIL - and didn't have one cloud in the sky the entire weekend. Weather was pristine! Anna Maria Island is actually very quiet. Just a beautiful weekend to explore a little, eat great seafood, enjoy reading on the beach, playing in the water, and ending every evening watching a gorgeous sunset. Perfect chill vibes.
If you're headed to the beach for your babymoon, here are some of my top picks - featuring low tox products, flattering beach wear, and self care items to keep you feeling your best while traveling with your bump
West Seattle is its own community just across the water from downtown Seattle. The main “downtown” area is on California Ave SW where you’ll find Easy Street Records, Molly Moon Ice Cream, and lots of local shops. If you’re visiting while the weather’s nice, head to Alki Beach or take a bike ride along Beach Drive. Visiting with a dog? Take them to West Crest Dog Park. Whether you’re taking a day trip via water taxi or visiting the “island” for a weekend, here’s a few favorite spots in West Seattle.
Looking for elevated travel gifts and high-utility transit essentials that make long-haul flights and frequent travel effortless? Navigating security lines, cramped airplane seats, dead device batteries, and lost luggage can make transit draining. This curated gift guide features high-impact, problem-solving travel tech, ergonomic in-flight comfort upgrades, TSA-ready organizers, and luxury packing solutions. Discover how to streamline airport navigation, maximize carry-on space, and pick memorable presents for every frequent flyer.
These are my ride-or-die travel essentials that keep me comfy, cute, and at least semi-sane while catching flights. From bougie eye masks to snacks that save lives, consider this your chaos-proof carry-on checklist.
After living in St. Louis for almost 10 years, I have found some of the best recs for places to eat, drink, hang out, and see the best of what the city has to offer.
Not sure what you need on your next cruise? I am a certified travel agent that specializes in cruises and in Disney vacations! I have been on many cruises and have perfected my list of exactly what is essential to bring on your next cruise vacation!
Escape to Richmond’s oldest neighborhood for a slow, sweet morning packed with playgrounds, skyline views, and kid-approved bites. This Benable guide strings together the best of Church Hill’s historic charm and family gems—no car needed once you park!
Travel Favorites (Lazy Girl Approved)
I travel 12–15 times a year, and these are the real things I use on repeat — flights, cruises, port days, weekend trips, and everything in between. No sponsorships, no gifted items, just my actual travel essentials and the hotels, tours, and gear I personally rely on.
If you’re planning a trip and want to see what I genuinely recommend, everything is organized here in one easy place.
There are some really special beaches near Charleston! ⛱️ My husband and I, and then my family, have been discovering them for over 30 years - and I’m happy to share all we’ve learned and keep finding with you! These are the differences between the fantastic beaches Charleston has to offer!
I've been living in Alexandria VA for nearly 20 years - first near Old Town Alexandria, and now in Alexandria (Fairfax county). This is a great area, and a great place to visit if you're coming to Washington DC to visit. My favorite things/places and hidden gems (aside from all the well known, popular tourist spots)!
Forget the tourist traps — this list is all about the under-the-radar places, quirky corners, and local secrets I’ve stumbled upon while traveling. These are places that made me stop, smile, and sometimes say ‘am I really seeing this??’ Add them to your itinerary — just don’t tell too many people. 😉
This list is FULL of my luggage & carry-on essential items! We have a MONTH LONG vacation to Portugal coming in August! Let’s get our packing list ready! ❤️😍
After visiting Tokyo three times, these are my favorite activities, unique eats, and places to stay. Here you'll find essential Tokyo things to do along with some unexpected ones!
I loved to travel before becoming a parent, and that hasn't changed just because I have three kids. I've traveled with kids on road trips and airplanes, and have lived to tell the tale (sometimes barely!) Here are my favorite products that make life easier for everyone when we travel.
Phoenix being the heart of Arizona there is so much to do and see in and around the area. Here are some of our places and things to do that we go to when we visit. There are plenty of hotspots for adults but also lots of fun museums, parks and things for the kids too.
I have traveled to 30 out of the 50 states in the United States of America. I finally had my first international trip in 2021 at the age of 40. I actually had to get a passport to where I could travel to Costa Rica.
My partner and family had already traveled down, which meant that I was flying down solo. I was in Costa Rica for 2 weeks and absolutely fell in love with the culture, food, and the amazing views. As a photographer, I took a LOT of pictures and videos.
Please join me on this amazing journey that led me to consider relocating to Costa Rica.
When I travel, I need to be OVER prepared. I cannot even fathom the thought of needing something when I’m not home and not having it. These are all of the things I have in my travel bag on every single overnight stay.
Idaho is one of the best spots for outdoor adventures! There’s lots of things to do, you just need to know where to look! Here are my favorite spots!🌄🐟🎿
I travel around the world as a destination expert with National Geographic Expeditions and Smithsonian Journeys — and these are some of my favorite things to take on every adventure.
One of the best things in life is travel… but packing for it, not so much. This is my list of essentials for getting all your clothes, shoes, and the rest of the bits and pieces organized, in the suitcase, and on to your destination with the least amount of frustration possible. And if you look great doing it in these comfortable travel sets, all the better!
FYI, this contains affiliate links from which I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
These items are a must for carry on only travel across Asia, South America and US and these are tech, shoes, and clothes I always have with me as a female digital nomad
Plan the perfect foliage experience from Southern NH to the Whites. Explore Mount Monadnock, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, the Kancamagus Highway, and Franconia Notch. These stops are visitor tested, local approved, and easy to in a weekend. Save this for October and peak leaf‑peeping 🍁
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