Blue Mind Theory: The Science Behind Why You Feel Better at the Beach
Do you know what Blue Mind Theory is? You might not know the scientific definition, but if you’ve ever felt happiness and peace while standing at the ocean’s edge, you're more informed than you realize. Curious about the viral travel trend everyone seems to be talking about? Read on. My back is on fire. I curse myself for not applying sunscreen as I inadvertently step on a sharp shell. This is ironic, as searching for shells is why I’m out here in the first place....
The Spectacular Lofoten Islands: My Questions, My Answers
The Lofoten Islands are home to some of Earth's most majestic and dramatic scenery. An adventure-lover's playground, there's no one way to explore this dreamy archipelago in the Arctic Circle. Read on to discover how best to plan a trip to Norway's most unique islands, including transportation methods, accommodation options, activities, and itinerary ideas. ‘Let’s go to the Lofoten Islands next summer,’ I say to my husband over dinner. He lifts his gaze and looks at me like I’ve just asked him to bungee jump into...
How To Pack for an African Safari (Carry-On Only)
Are you heading on safari for the first time? An African safari is an adventurer's travel trifecta—a combination of breathtaking wildlife, stunning terrain, and unparalleled lodging and hospitality. With over 20+ game drives across four countries, I've learned a thing or two about how to simplify the preparation for this exciting experience. My packing lists follow—organized into four simple categories. You can also download my ‘Ultimate Safari Packing List’ to have them all in one easy-to-access place. And while it's not necessary to travel with...
Where in the World is Manshausen Island?
A tiny square on Instagram stops me mid-scroll—a photo of a glass cabin perched above a stone jetty cantilevered over the sea. Through plate glass windows, a seated woman with a book on her lap gazes towards the horizon. The caption reads, “Can you see yourself in this chair?” That was six years ago. If I’d seen it today, I would’ve been convinced the image was computer-generated. But in 2018, Instagram still depicted reality. Well, sort of. “Yes!” I think to myself as that familiar...
How To Find The Best Hotel For Your Next Adventure
Do you ever wonder how to find the best hotel for your next adventure? It isn’t rocket science, but I do have my approach to finding what I consider the 'best' hotels. Think you have nothing left to learn? Let’s compare notes. And enjoy photos from some of my favorite hotels, resorts, and villas along the way. “How did you find that adventure lodge in Iceland?” “Where was that surfing resort in Nicaragua you loved?” “What time of year is the best to go to...
21 amazing local things to do in Georgetown DC
What are the best things to do in Georgetown's historic neighborhood? Read on to discover the best shopping, dining, art, and more in one of the most beautiful parts of our nation's capital. I grew up in a small town in New Jersey. My earliest hometown memories include Pizza Hut, Friday night high school football games, and hanging out at Dairy Queen. I never gave much thought to my hometown as a destination; it was just where I happened to grow up. Fast-forward thirty years...
Eagles Soar At Wildflower Farms. So Will You.
Wildflower Farms, an Auberge property in New York's Hudson Valley, is the antidote to city life. Discover why it's on everyone's hot list. Ryan puts our bags in the back of the motorized cart. Our bungalow is a short walk away, but it’s drizzling, so we welcome the ride. After a few social niceties, ‘Where are you from?’ ‘Is this a girls’ trip?’ ‘Are you sisters?’ Ryan slams the brakes. “I just saw a bald eagle—want to see his nest?” My jaw drops. Does my...
5 Things To Do In Vienna That Will Make You Fall In Love
It's pretty easy to fall in love with Vienna, that magical 'City of Dreams' in Austria. And it's not because of the vast amount of things to do in Vienna—the palaces, gardens, or world-class food. It's about the harmony of the city. The symphonic undercurrent of Vienna captivates locals and tourists alike. There are so many things to do in Vienna that have been written about time and again. Here are five highlights that made me fall for Austria's enchanting capital city. I’ve come to...
The Best Of Mérida: Mexico’s Newest Hot Spot
“Where’s Mérida?” you wonder, and “Why should I go there?” I’m happy you asked. Mérida, Mexico, is the capital city of the Yucatán State. Its simple luxuries fly under the radar in terms of typical Mexican tourist destinations—more rustic, less bells, less whistles, and friendlier on the wallet. Long may that last. Recently, I spent three days uncovering the best of Mérida, Mexico, old school style with a pen and paper. Three days exploring boutiques, boutique hotels, hidden watering holes, and airy rooftop bars. Was...
Where’s Corsica? The Ultimate Guide To Our Corsica Travels
Our Corsica travels take us canyoning through mountains and hiking to mountaintop lakes. Our Corsica travels take us from party beaches to remote ones. Traveling in Corsica is an adventure a day, sprinkled with riverside retreats, clifftop restaurants, and the occasional wild pig. Where's Corsica, exactly? And does it belong on your travel wish list? Read on. “If you don’t project yourself outwards,” our canyoning instructor says calmly, “it will end—how do you say in English—badly.” I peer over the granite ledge. A gushing waterfall...