Travel Stories, Honest Reviews,
& Must Read Lists
Can You Hire Someone to Plan a Trip for You?
Can you hire someone to plan your trip? Absolutely. Discover how a travel advisor can simplify the details, tailor your itinerary, and help you enjoy your vacation with less stress.
Why Did My Vacation Price Change Overnight?
Vacation prices can change quickly. Learn how to compare cruise, resort, and flight quotes without getting lost in booking myths.
5 Things I Check Before Recommending a Family Cruise
Choosing a family cruise takes more than finding a ship with a pool. Here’s what I check, from kids’ clubs and cabins to port days and the full cost, before recommending a sailing.
Australia: Your Winter Escape
Trade North America’s cold winter for Australia’s summer sunshine, beautiful beaches, exciting cities, unique wildlife, cruises, and outdoor adventures.
Christmas in Hawaii 2026: Trade Snow for Sand
Celebrate Christmas a little differently in 2026. Trade snow for Hawaiian sunshine, beautiful beaches, whale watching, festive island traditions, and an unforgettable tropical holiday
All-Inclusive Does NOT Always Mean Everything Is Included
All-inclusive does not always mean everything is included. Discover which resort amenities may cost extra and how to avoid unexpected vacation expenses.
Princess Cruises 2026: Last Call for This Year's Sailings
There is still time to experience a Princess cruise in 2026, but availability is shrinking. Explore the remaining sailings or start planning early for 2027.
Is the Drink Package Worth It on Cruises?
Is a cruise drink package really worth the cost? Learn how to calculate your break-even point, compare package and individual drink prices, and decide which option makes the most sense for your cruise, itinerary, and vacation budget.
Is a Travel Agent Worth It? Here’s My Honest Answer
Wondering if a travel agent is worth it? Learn how personalized planning, expert recommendations, added value, and support can save you time, reduce stress, and help you avoid costly travel mistakes.
SCP Hotels: A Complete Guide to Luxury Hospitality
Discover what makes SCP Hotels different, from their focus on wellness and sustainability to their unique locations across California, Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon, and Costa Rica.
Closed-Loop Cruises: Do You Need a Passport?
Planning a closed-loop cruise? You may not be required to have a passport, but traveling without one comes with risks. Learn which documents are accepted, what children need, and why I still recommend carrying a passport book.
Collette Tours: What You Need to Know
Explore the world without worrying about every little detail. Collette Tours combines expertly planned itineraries, cultural experiences, comfortable accommodations, and guided sightseeing across destinations around the world. Whether you prefer a traditional guided vacation or a smaller, more immersive group experience, I can help you find the Collette tour that fits the way you want to travel.
Best Family-Friendly Cruise Lines for 2026
Planning a family cruise in 2026? We compare the top cruise lines—including Disney, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, Carnival, Holland America, and Princess—to help you find the best fit for your family's budget, travel style, and kids' ages. Discover the pros, cons, and standout features of each line so you can book your next family vacation with confidence.