DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Plan a Kid-Friendly Provence Spring Break Road Trip Posted on May 6, 2024September 21, 2026 My son called our Provence trip the girliest ever. Seriously? We tossed rocks, climbed walls, and explored Roman ruins under pale blue skies. It was an adventure perfect for boys. You won’t believe how much we loved it! Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to See Zadar, Split, and Plitvice Lakes in One Weekend on the Croatian Coast Posted on April 25, 2024September 23, 2026 A weekend on Croatia’s coast became one of my favorite family trips. We rented a seaside house near Zadar, met welcoming hosts, and tasted homemade Croatian wine. Between swimming, unexpected adventures, and waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes, Croatia gave us stories, friendships, and memories we still talk about today. Read more
SLOW TRAVEL & LIVING ABROAD The Advantages of Slow Travel in Italy: A Better Way to a Dolce Vita Posted on April 8, 2024October 12, 2026 In an era of fast-paced travel, Italy invites you to slow down and savor life’s pleasures through the art of slow travel. This blog encourages you to unwind in the Italian countryside, where time stands still among the olive groves and vineyards. We’ll introduce you to agriturismos, where you can participate in the local harvest, quaint towns. Read more
WELLNESS ON THE ROAD Running the Paris Marathon with My Husband: Endurance, Love, and Teamwork Posted on April 5, 2024August 16, 2026 Military separations aren’t just about miles, but lost time and shared memories. Running the Paris Marathon was a chance to catch up on both. These times apart are challenging. They mean missing holidays, precious moments, and chances to grow together. To reconnect, we find shared goals. Running the Paris Marathon together was our way to catch up and grow closer. But it actually accomplished much, much more. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK Venice Food Secrets: What Happened at Don Fernando’s Octopus Dinner Posted on April 3, 2024February 26, 2026 We both sat there staring at the plate placed before me. When I ordered a seafood salad, I figured I’d see a little crab and shrimp over some leafy greens with a splash of vinaigrette. I had no idea someone would go into the kitchen and out the back door to the canals beyond, scoop up whatever was unfortunate enough to swim into the net, and serve al fresco with a splash of olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper. We sat there, staring at the seafood salad I ordered. This is the story about My Octopus Dinner on the Venice Canals at Don Fernando’s in Treviso, Italy. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Spring in Italy: How to Plan the Perfect Birthday Trip Posted on March 28, 2024September 24, 2026 Today is my birthday and I am spending ot and the month of March in Italy. Spring in Italy has been full of surprises. Despite my initial concerns about the cold potentially spoiling the enjoyment of Italy’s famous natural beauty, my worries were unfounded. The weather is unexpectedly warm, a pleasant surprise that probably points to global warming. The heavy coat I brought, expecting to shield against the chill, has become my personal sauna. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES How to Master Public Transportation in Italy: Trains, Buses, and Taxis Posted on March 27, 2024February 15, 2026 I am hanging out in Italy for a month. Unfortunately, I didn’t get my international driver’s license before going to Italy, so now I can’t drive here. This will require me to use buses, trains, and other public transport to get around. I’m not hating it, it’s been awhile since I’ve driven in Europe. While it’s a handy way to travel, there are a few things I’ve had to figure out to make it easier and cheaper a bit of know-how. Here’s a concise guide to making the most of your public transportation experience in Rome, Florence, Formia, and Naples Italy. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Find Spain’s Authentic Flamenco: Go Beyond Touristy Spots Posted on March 24, 2024September 24, 2026 If you can see a flamenco show in Southern Spain, opt for one outside the touristy areas; you’ll thank me later. Your best bet is to follow the locals; they know where you’ll get an authentic show. Flamenco is not merely a performance for tourists but is deeply ingrained in Spanish culture. For me, Flamenco in Southern Spain isn’t just about the music and dance… Read more