This is where the real adventures live. The unfiltered stories from the road, the moments that stick with you long after you’re home, and the honest truth about what travel is really like. Not just the highlight reel, but the whole experience: the incredible highs, the occasional lows, and everything in between. These are my stories, told the way I actually lived them.
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.
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.
Hawaii is absolutely worth visiting, but not for a typical beach vacation. After two trips to the Big Island, I’ve learned that Hawaii deserves to be experienced for what makes it unique: hiking to secluded Makalawena Beach, exploring active volcanoes, touring coffee farms with ocean views, and witnessing the breathtaking Waipi’o Valley. Save your 13-hour journey for authentic Hawaiian experiences you can’t find anywhere else.
Think a London getaway requires a long vacation and a big budget? This short guide shows how you can enjoy the best of London in just a weekend—from quick East Coast flights to navigating Heathrow and exploring the city like a pro.
Ever thought about flying to Europe for just a weekend? We did—landing in Copenhagen for a cozy holiday adventure filled with festive markets, friendly locals, and even a day trip to Sweden. Here’s how we made it happen without breaking the bank.
Aruba is beautiful, but it’s not for everyone. In this personal account, I share why I may never return, despite staying in a stunning Airbnb, enjoying a beachfront wedding, and discovering a few local highlights. If you’re considering Aruba, read this first.
From street tacos in Tijuana to Christmas on the beaches of Puerto Escondido, this is the story of how we explored a misunderstood country with open hearts and open minds. With tips on crossing the border, navigating safety concerns, and embracing spontaneous adventure, this guide to Mexico is part memoir, part manual—and all in the spirit of “just say yes.”
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