South Pacific

From Fiji to Australia and beyond, the South Pacific is one of the most breathtaking regions on earth. Crystal clear waters, vibrant cultures, remote islands, and experiences that are as far off the beaten path as you want them to be. Whether you are planning a stopover, a full itinerary, or just dreaming about this part of the world, you will find honest stories and practical insights here. The South Pacific is just getting started on this blog and there is plenty more to come!

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    How a Google Flights Search Turned Into a Fiji Beach Hut

    ByJay M

    Fiji is one of those places that sounds out of reach to most, or at least at a level of spend that many are not ready to indulge. I was of that same mindset too, always thinking of the movie “The Truman Show,” where Jim Carrey’s character dreams of visiting Fiji. That said, as you may know from reading this blog, that is how the majority of our trips start. Fiji, like so many other amazing places we have seen, is a long stopover in a journey that is the trip. What started as a Google Flights search turned into a beach hut with no electricity, meals cooked from the sea, and a Hilton stay on points, all for less than you might expect. Let me walk you through exactly how we made it happen.

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    Australia Chapter 4: Sydney

    ByJay M

    Sydney exceeded every expectation. From the iconic Harbor Bridge and Opera House to the laid-back charm of Manly Beach, Australia’s largest city proved why it ranks among the world’s best. We spent our days ferry-hopping to beach towns, exploring vibrant neighborhoods, and soaking in harbor views that live up to the hype.

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    Australia Chapter 3: Thanksgiving Down Under!

    ByJay M

    Celebrating Amanda’s favorite holiday 9,000 miles from home in Brisbane. Our first Thanksgiving abroad brought together friends from four countries for an unforgettable evening of food, stories, and cultural exchange.

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    Australia Chapter 2: Where did Saturday Go?

    ByJay M

    We made it to Brisbane, Australia! After leaving Wilmington in the early morning hours, a stop in Columbia, SC to work remotely, and a layover in LA, we landed on the other side of the world, so far from home that both locations can’t fit on my iPhone map at once. From being greeted with waving flags at the airport to our first flat white at Mount Coot-tha overlooking Brisbane, catching a local phone number, and choosing a “second wind” over jet lag recovery at Street Beach, this is how our Australian adventure began. Spoiler: it involved several pints, pokies, Chinese takeaway, and zero regrets.

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    Australia Chapter 1

    ByJay M

    We’re heading to Australia in just over a week! In this first chapter of our Australia adventure, I break down everything that went into planning this trip—from finding the best flight deals and navigating Delta upgrades, to the unexpected move that changed our departure city, securing our VISA, and booking hotels in Brisbane and Sydney. If you’re planning your own trip Down Under, this behind-the-scenes look at the research and booking process might just help you save some money and stress along the way.