Mackinac Island in upper Michigan has a way of making you feel like you’ve stepped into another era. With no cars, horse-drawn transportation, and beautifully restored Victorian architecture, time seems to slow the moment you arrive. It’s no surprise that the island, and especially the centerpiece Grand Hotel, became the setting for one of my … More The Perfect One-Day Itinerary on Mackinac Island, Michigan
I visited Italy in early March, a tour that included Venice, Florence, Rome and Sorrento, with an EF Go Ahead Tours group. March is the off-season in Italy, so expect cool temperatures, some rain and much lighter crowds. I prefer cooler weather, especially when traveling, and the less crowded the better! With this in mind, … More What to Pack for Italy in March: The Essential Packing List
I visited Scotland and London in early March with EF Tours. Our tour director mentioned almost as soon as we boarded our bus that, in Scotland, you can expect to experience all four seasons in the same day. As if to prove him right, the weather on the 30-minute drive from the Glasgow airport to … More What to Pack for Scotland in Spring
Winter at Turkey Run State Park is pure enchantment. Located in west-central Indiana near Crawfordsville, this gem transforms into a tranquil haven of frost-touched forests, quiet trails, and breathtaking sandstone ravines. For outdoor lovers craving fresh air and scenic views, a winter hiking trip here delivers unforgettable moments, especially for those who appreciate rugged terrain … More Discovering Winter Magic at Turkey Run State Park, Indiana
Fall was my mother’s favorite season. Now, of course, it’s mine. Cooler temperatures, changing leaves, brilliant blue skies, the vegetable harvest, and orange pumpkins all still delight me. When I can, I love to sneak away for long weekends to hike, breathe in the fresh air, and take in the views. After visiting many lovely … More Four Fantastic Places for Fall Foliage in the US
Fun fact: I have always been a huge fan of John Denver. One of my travel goals is to visit every place he sang about, including the Canadian Rockies. Thanks to a partnership with Princess Cruises, I ended up with two flights to Vancouver that were meant originally for a cruise, but plans change. What’s … More The Ultimate 7 Day Road Trip from Vancouver to Banff
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola in Whistler, BA is a Summer Alpine Experience, complete with beautiful hikes, thrilling views and a few surprises along the way. … More Whistler Blackcomb’s Summer Alpine Experience: A Guide to the Peak 2 Peak Gondola
I had to refresh my wardrobe for a cruise to the Greek Islands, Turkey, Malta, and Italy, as I mainly own office attire and work-around-the-house attire. I wanted to look elegant, put together, summer breezy, and still feel comfortable in what I knew were going to be hot and sunny locales. I did not want … More What to Pack for a Greek Island Summer Cruise
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a beautiful destination for winter hiking, with a wide range of trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from easy, scenic trails to more challenging hikes that will test your endurance … More Winter Hiking Trip in Gatlinburg Tennessee: Popular Trails and Scenic Views
When I travel I take lots of photos for this blog, my Instagram page, and for memories, so my wardrobe and nails need to be camera ready at all times. I found the perfect, affordable manicure for travel! For a long time I spent, every two weeks or so, from $40 to $65 having my … More I Found the Perfect Affordable Home Manicure For Travel
Off Duty Traveler 