We went on an Alaskan cruise during August and September 2019. It started in Vancouver, and we stopped at Hoonah (Icy Strait Point), Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay, College Fjord, and Whittier before driving up to Anchorage. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Alaska is a stunning destination with a wide range of experiences to offer. Here are some top travel recommendations:

Anchorage

1. Tony Knowles Coastal Trail: A beautiful 11-mile trail perfect for biking, walking, and wildlife spotting.

2. Anchorage Museum: Explore exhibits on Alaska’s history, art, and culture.

3. Alaska Native Heritage Center: Learn about the diverse cultures of Alaska’s indigenous peoples.

Denali National Park

1. Denali: Home to North America’s highest peak, Denali offers incredible hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic bus tours.

2. Wildlife Viewing: Look out for grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep.

3. Denali Visitor Center: Start your visit here to get maps, information, and join ranger-led programs.

Juneau

1. Mendenhall Glacier: Visit this stunning glacier and explore the surrounding trails.

2. Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to see humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life.

3. Mount Roberts Tramway: Ride the tram for panoramic views of Juneau and the surrounding area.

Fairbanks

1. Aurora Borealis: Fairbanks is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, especially from late August to April.

2. Chena Hot Springs: Relax in the natural hot springs and visit the Aurora Ice Museum.

3. Museum of the North: Located at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, this museum offers exhibits on Alaska’s natural and cultural history.

Seward

1. Kenai Fjords National Park: Explore glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife by boat tour or kayak.

2. Alaska SeaLife Center: Learn about marine life and conservation efforts in Alaska.

3. Exit Glacier: Hike to this accessible glacier and enjoy the scenic views.

Homer

1. Homer Spit: A long, narrow strip of land with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views.

2. Kachemak Bay State Park: Accessible by boat, this park offers hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

3. Bear Viewing Tours: Take a flightseeing tour to see bears in their natural habitat.

Sitka

1. Sitka National Historical Park: Explore the totem poles and learn about the area’s history.

2. Fortress of the Bear: Visit this sanctuary to see rescued bears up close.

3. St. Michael’s Cathedral: A historic Russian Orthodox church in downtown Sitka.

Alaska offers a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Enjoy your trip to the Last Frontier!

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We’ve had quite a few trips to Arizona because we are obsessed with the Grand Canyon; on our most recent visit, we went to Scottsdale as well as Sedona.

We had the opportunity to see the beautiful Christmas setup at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.

And we climbed Pinnacle Peak with our family.

The city center for Scottsdale is also a treat with the historic western architecture.

This is also a video from one of our earlier visits where we started in Phoenix and made our way up to Sedona, Grand Canyon National Park, Horseshoe Bend, Monument Valley, Glen Canyon Dam, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, Jerome, Page, and back down to Scottsdale.

We also had an opportunity to visit during a colder month when snow was still on the ground during a February 2017 road-trip, where we visited Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah.

Arizona is a state full of diverse landscapes and attractions. Here are some top travel recommendations:

Grand Canyon National Park

1. South Rim: Visit the most popular area with stunning viewpoints like Mather Point and Bright Angel Trail.

2. North Rim: For a quieter experience, explore the North Rim, open from mid-May to mid-October.

3. Hiking and Rafting: Consider hiking down to the Colorado River or taking a whitewater rafting trip.

Sedona

1. Red Rock State Park: Enjoy hiking and photography in this beautiful park with its iconic red rock formations.

2. Chapel of the Holy Cross: Visit this unique chapel built into the red rocks.

3. Art and Culture: Explore the many art galleries and shops in Sedona.

Phoenix

1. Desert Botanical Garden: Discover a variety of desert plants and beautiful landscapes.

2. Heard Museum: Learn about Native American cultures and history.

3. Camelback Mountain: Hike to the top for panoramic views of the city.

Tucson

1. Saguaro National Park: See the iconic saguaro cacti and enjoy scenic drives and hikes.

2. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: A combination of zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum.

3. Mission San Xavier del Bac: Visit this historic Spanish mission.

Flagstaff

1. Lowell Observatory: Explore the observatory where Pluto was discovered.

2. Walnut Canyon National Monument: Hike among ancient cliff dwellings.

3. Arizona Snowbowl: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter, and scenic chairlift rides in summer.

Monument Valley

1. Scenic Drives: Take the 17-mile Valley Drive to see iconic formations like the Mittens and John Ford’s Point.

2. Guided Tours: Consider a guided tour to learn about the Navajo culture and history.

Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

1. Boating and Water Sports: Enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing on Lake Powell.

2. Antelope Canyon: Visit this stunning slot canyon for incredible photo opportunities.

Petrified Forest National Park

1. Rainbow Forest: See colorful petrified wood and ancient fossils.

2. Painted Desert: Explore the vibrant badlands and scenic overlooks.

Arizona offers a mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Here is a video of our February 2019 road-trip, which included a stop in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Arkansas, known as The Natural State, offers a variety of beautiful landscapes and attractions. Here are some top travel recommendations:

Hot Springs

1. Hot Springs National Park: Enjoy the thermal springs, historic bathhouses, and scenic hiking trails.

2. Garvan Woodland Gardens: Explore this stunning botanical garden with seasonal displays and tranquil water features.

3. Bathhouse Row: Visit the historic bathhouses, some of which have been converted into museums and spas.

Little Rock

1. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Learn about the history of the Civil Rights Movement.

2. River Market District: Enjoy dining, shopping, and entertainment along the Arkansas River.

3. Pinnacle Mountain State Park: Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley.

Fayetteville

1. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks: Wander through themed gardens and enjoy seasonal events.

2. Fayetteville Downtown Square & Gardens: Explore the charming downtown area with its shops, restaurants, and beautiful gardens.

3. University of Arkansas: Visit the campus and catch a Razorbacks game if you’re a sports fan.

Eureka Springs

1. Thorncrown Chapel: Visit this stunning glass chapel nestled in the woods.

2. Historic Downtown Eureka Springs: Explore the unique shops, art galleries, and Victorian architecture.

3. Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge: See rescued big cats and other wildlife up close.

Bentonville

1. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art: Discover an impressive collection of American art in a beautiful natural setting.

2. The Walmart Museum: Learn about the history of Walmart and its impact on the region.

3. Bentonville Square: Enjoy the vibrant downtown area with its shops, restaurants, and events.

Ozark Mountains

1. Buffalo National River: Go canoeing, kayaking, or hiking in this scenic area.

2. Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag): Hike to this iconic rock formation for breathtaking views.

3. Ozark Folk Center State Park: Experience traditional Ozark crafts, music, and culture.

Crater of Diamonds State Park

1. Diamond Hunting: Try your luck at finding diamonds in the only public diamond mine in the world.

2. Camping and Hiking: Enjoy the park’s natural beauty with its trails and campsites.

Arkansas offers a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical sites.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We went on a mini-road-trip on the west coast during November 2023. San Diego was our first stop, and we visited Laguna Beach as well as Joshua Tree National Park. Here are a few videos of our time there.

It was a chilly day during our Laguna visit, but the beach views were still incredible.

Coronado was decorated for Christmas, including an ice skating rink, huge snow globes, and s’more stations with hot chocolate.

The USS Midway is an impressive display of aircrafts with knowledgeable guides.

SeaWorld put on a great dolphin show, and you could tell that all involved were having a ball.

The zoo was a must see since it is one of the attractions that San Diego is known for, and it did not disappoint.

The city views of the water were gorgeous with boats around every corner and yummy pubs to grab a bite in along the way.

We stopped in San Francisco on our way to Hawaii in September 2016 as well.

California is a diverse state with a wide range of attractions and activities. Here are some top travel recommendations:

San Francisco

1. Golden Gate Bridge: Walk or bike across this iconic bridge for stunning views.

2. Alcatraz Island: Take a ferry to tour the historic prison.

3. Fisherman’s Wharf: Enjoy seafood, shopping, and attractions like Pier 39.

4. Golden Gate Park: Explore gardens, museums, and outdoor activities.

5. Chinatown: Visit one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in North America.

Los Angeles

1. Hollywood: See the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Hollywood Sign.

2. Santa Monica Pier: Enjoy the beach, amusement park, and restaurants.

3. Getty Center: Visit this museum with its impressive art collection and beautiful gardens.

4. Griffith Observatory: Get panoramic views of the city and explore the exhibits.

5. Venice Beach: Experience the vibrant boardwalk and Muscle Beach.

San Diego

1. Balboa Park: Explore museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo.

2. Gaslamp Quarter: Enjoy dining, nightlife, and historic architecture.

3. La Jolla Cove: Visit this picturesque beach and see the sea lions.

4. USS Midway Museum: Tour this historic aircraft carrier.

5. Old Town San Diego: Discover the history and culture of early California.

Yosemite National Park

1. Yosemite Valley: See iconic landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.

2. Glacier Point: Get breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding peaks.

3. Mariposa Grove: Walk among giant sequoias.

4. Hiking: Enjoy trails like Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall.

5. Camping: Experience the park’s natural beauty by staying overnight.

Napa Valley

1. Wine Tasting: Visit world-renowned wineries and vineyards.

2. Hot Air Balloon Rides: Get a bird’s-eye view of the vineyards.

3. Culinary Experiences: Enjoy gourmet dining at top restaurants.

4. Spa Treatments: Relax with a spa day at one of the luxury resorts.

5. Biking Tours: Explore the valley on a bike tour.

Lake Tahoe

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at resorts like Heavenly and Squaw Valley.

2. Hiking and Biking: Enjoy trails with stunning lake views.

3. Boating and Water Sports: Rent a boat or try paddle-boarding on the lake.

4. Beaches: Relax at beautiful beaches like Sand Harbor.

5. Casinos: Try your luck at the casinos on the Nevada side of the lake.

Big Sur

1. Bixby Creek Bridge: Take in the views of this iconic bridge along Highway 1.

2. Pfeiffer Beach: Visit this unique beach with its purple sand.

3. McWay Falls: See this stunning waterfall that drops into the ocean.

4. Hiking: Explore trails in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

5. Camping: Stay overnight in one of the scenic campgrounds.

California offers something for everyone, from urban adventures to natural wonders.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We flew out to Denver in August 2023. While we were there, we visited Pike’s Peak, Colorado Springs, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Denver Botanic Gardens, Boulder, and Red Rocks. Here is a video of some of our time there.

We quickly visited Colorado during a February 2017 road-trip, which included the four-corner states, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah as well as Nevada.

Colorado is a fantastic destination with a wide range of attractions and activities. Here are some top travel recommendations:

Denver

1. Denver Art Museum: Explore a vast collection of art from around the world.

2. Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Attend a concert at this iconic outdoor venue.

3. Denver Botanic Gardens: Wander through beautiful themed gardens.

4. Union Station: Visit this historic train station with shops, restaurants, and bars.

5. 16th Street Mall: Enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment along this pedestrian-friendly street.

Rocky Mountain National Park

1. Trail Ridge Road: Drive along this scenic highway with breathtaking views.

2. Bear Lake: Hike around this picturesque lake and enjoy the surrounding trails.

3. Wildlife Viewing: Look out for elk, moose, and other wildlife.

4. Longs Peak: For experienced hikers, attempt the challenging climb to the summit.

5. Camping: Spend a night under the stars in one of the park’s campgrounds.

Aspen

1. Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, and other nearby resorts.

2. Maroon Bells: Visit these iconic twin peaks and enjoy the stunning scenery.

3. Aspen Art Museum: Explore contemporary art exhibits.

4. Hiking and Biking: Enjoy the extensive trail system in the area.

5. Aspen Music Festival: Attend concerts and events during the summer festival.

Boulder

1. Pearl Street Mall: Stroll through this vibrant pedestrian mall with shops, restaurants, and street performers.

2. Flatirons: Hike the trails around these iconic rock formations.

3. Chautauqua Park: Enjoy outdoor activities and cultural events.

4. Boulder Farmers Market: Visit one of the best farmers markets in the country.

5. Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory: Take a tour of this famous tea factory.

Colorado Springs

1. Garden of the Gods: Explore the stunning red rock formations and hiking trails.

2. Pikes Peak: Drive or take the cog railway to the summit for incredible views.

3. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Visit this unique mountainside zoo.

4. Manitou Springs: Explore this charming town with its mineral springs and quirky shops.

5. U.S. Air Force Academy: Tour the campus and visit the Cadet Chapel.

Telluride

1. Telluride Ski Resort: Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding.

2. Telluride Film Festival: Attend this prestigious film festival held annually.

3. Bridal Veil Falls: Hike to Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall.

4. Mountain Village: Take the free gondola to this charming village with shops and restaurants.

5. Hiking and Biking: Explore the extensive trail system in the area.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

1. Sandboarding and Sledding: Try sandboarding or sledding down the dunes.

2. Medano Creek: Splash around in this seasonal creek at the base of the dunes.

3. Hiking: Explore the dunes and surrounding mountains.

4. Stargazing: Enjoy some of the best stargazing in the country.

5. Camping: Camp under the stars in the park’s campgrounds.

Colorado offers a mix of urban adventures, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. 

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We went on a road-trip in New England during June 2023. Connecticut was our seventh stop, and we visited Hartford and Stamford. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Connecticut offers a variety of attractions and activities for all types of travelers. Here are some recommendations:

Mystic

– Mystic Seaport Museum: Explore the largest collection of historic ships in the U.S.

– Mystic Aquarium: Home to beluga whales, sea lions, and a variety of marine life.

– Downtown Mystic: Enjoy charming shops, restaurants, and the famous Mystic Pizza.

Hartford

– Mark Twain House & Museum: Visit the home of the famous author.

– Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: The oldest public art museum in the U.S.

– Bushnell Park: A beautiful park with a historic carousel.

New Haven

– Yale University: Tour the campus and visit the Yale University Art Gallery and the Yale Center for British Art.

– East Rock Park: Offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the city.

– Pizza: Try the legendary pizza at Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana.

Fairfield County

– Beardsley Zoo: Connecticut’s only zoo, located in Bridgeport.

– Maritime Aquarium: Located in Norwalk, great for families.

– Stamford Museum & Nature Center: Offers a mix of art, history, and nature.

Outdoor Activities

– Gillette Castle State Park: Explore the unique medieval-style castle and its scenic surroundings.

– Hammonasset Beach State Park: Enjoy the largest shoreline park in Connecticut with beaches and trails.

– Litchfield Hills: Perfect for hiking, especially during the fall foliage season.

These are just a few highlights. Connecticut has a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a great destination year-round.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Florida is our current home state, so we have quite a bit to cover, starting with a little introduction for each of our home states.

Amelia Island is right around the corner from Jacksonville, so we make our way up there for a little extra fun every once in a while.

The everglades is pretty far south of us, yet it was totally worth the road-trip to see such a magnificent place.

When we first moved down to Florida in 2019, we got a Universal annual pass, so here is a little bit of our time spent there.

Of course, Disney is right around the corner, and we actually had a family trip there at the end of 2018 just before we moved down.

This is one of our favorite concert venues in JAX. In November 2022, we had the pleasure of seeing Maverick City there. It was a great way to kick-off our holiday season.

The Blue Angels typically put on a free show in JAX every October, and this is a view of one of those shows from 2019.

Jacksonville and St. Augustine offer some beautiful Christmas lights as seen here.

We also had the pleasure of seeing the Trans-Siberian Orchestra in JAX back in December 2021, which can be seen here.

And our pre-Covid road-trip to Key West and South Beach, Miami was unforgettable.

The next video is from one of Jacksonville’s concert venues to see NeedToBreathe.

In September 2024, we had a second celebration trip for Andre’s 50th birthday where we saw the sunrise and sunset during the same day on both of Florida’s coasts.

In November 2024, we watched UGA’s nail-biting victory against UF.

Florida is a diverse and beautiful state with many attractions and destinations to suit different tastes and preferences. Here is a list of some of our favorite spots. Please feel free to share new ideas with us using our contact form here. 

• Cocoa Beach: A popular surfing destination on the Atlantic coast, Cocoa Beach is home to the famous Ron Jon Surf Shop and the Cocoa Beach Pier. You can also visit the nearby Kennedy Space Center or enjoy the wildlife at the Brevard Zoo.

• Key West: The southernmost point in the continental U.S., Key West is known for its laid-back atmosphere, colorful architecture, and rich history. You can explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, or the lively Duval Street.

• Amelia Island: A charming island off the northeast coast of Florida, Amelia Island offers a relaxing beach getaway with old-world charm. You can stroll through the historic downtown of Fernandina Beach, visit the Fort Clinch State Park, or take a horseback ride on the beach.

• St. Augustine: The oldest European settlement in the U.S., St. Augustine is a historic and cultural treasure. You can visit the Castillo de San Marcos, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, or the Lightner Museum. You can also enjoy the scenic views from the St. Augustine Lighthouse or the Bridge of Lions.

• Gainesville: The home of the University of Florida, Gainesville is a vibrant and youthful city with a lot of culture and nature. You can visit the Florida Museum of Natural History, the Harn Museum of Art, or the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. You can also explore the nearby natural springs, such as Ginnie Springs or Ichetucknee Springs.

• Daytona Beach: A famous destination for motorsports enthusiasts, Daytona Beach hosts the Daytona 500 and other racing events at the Daytona International Speedway. You can also enjoy the wide and sandy beach, the Daytona Beach Boardwalk, or the Daytona Lagoon water park.

• Naples: An elegant and romantic city on the Gulf coast, Naples is known for its luxury and relaxation. You can enjoy the gorgeous sugar-white sand beaches, the incredible golf courses, or the high-end shops and restaurants. You can also visit the Naples Zoo, the Naples Botanical Garden, or the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary.

• Jacksonville: The largest city in Florida, Jacksonville has a lot to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. You can visit the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, the Museum of Science and History, or the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. You can also enjoy the beaches, the parks, or the nightlife.

• Tallahassee: The capital of Florida, Tallahassee is a city with a lot of history and culture. You can visit the Florida State Capitol, the Museum of Florida History, or the Mission San Luis de Apalachee. You can also enjoy the natural beauty of the Maclay Gardens, the Wakulla Springs, or the Apalachicola National Forest.

• Everglades National Park: The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S., Everglades National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder. You can see a variety of wildlife, such as alligators, crocodiles, manatees, flamingos, and panthers. You can also take an airboat tour, a kayak trip, or a hiking trail.

• Panama City Beach: A popular spring break destination on the Gulf coast, Panama City Beach is known for its crystal-clear water and white sand. You can enjoy the beach, the Pier Park, or the Shipwreck Island water park. You can also visit the St. Andrews State Park, the Gulf World Marine Park, or the Shell Island.

• West Palm Beach: A sophisticated and stylish city on the Atlantic coast, West Palm Beach is known for its art and culture. You can visit the Norton Museum of Art, the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, or the Palm Beach Zoo. You can also enjoy the Clematis Street, the CityPlace, or the Palm Beach Outlets.

• Pensacola: A historic and scenic city on the Panhandle, Pensacola is known for its naval and aviation heritage. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or the Historic Pensacola Village. You can also enjoy the Pensacola Beach, the Fort Pickens, or the Blue Angels air show.

• Clearwater: A sunny and family-friendly city on the Gulf coast, Clearwater is known for its beautiful beach and marine life. You can visit the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, the home of Winter the dolphin, the Pier 60, or the Clearwater Beach Marina. You can also take a boat tour, a fishing trip, or a sunset cruise.

• Sarasota: A cultural and artistic city on the Gulf coast, Sarasota is known for its museums and gardens. You can visit the Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Jungle Gardens, or the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. You can also enjoy the Siesta Key Beach, the St. Armands Circle, or the Sarasota Opera.

• Fort Lauderdale: A lively and cosmopolitan city on the Atlantic coast, Fort Lauderdale is known for its canals and waterways. You can take a water taxi, a river cruise, or a gondola ride. You can also visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, the Museum of Discovery and Science, or the Las Olas Boulevard.

• Destin: A charming and picturesque city on the Panhandle, Destin is known for its emerald-green water and fine sand. You can enjoy the beach, the Destin Harbor Boardwalk, or the Big Kahuna’s water park. You can also visit the Henderson Beach State Park, the Destin History and Fishing Museum, or the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park.

• Tampa: A dynamic and diverse city on the Gulf coast, Tampa is known for its attractions and entertainment. You can visit the Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, or the Lowry Park Zoo. You can also enjoy the Ybor City, the Tampa Riverwalk, or the Tampa Bay History Center.

• Miami: A vibrant and multicultural city on the Atlantic coast, Miami is known for its nightlife and beaches. You can visit the South Beach, the Art Deco District, or the Ocean Drive. You can also enjoy the Little Havana, the Wynwood Walls, or the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

• Orlando: The theme park capital of the world, Orlando is known for its fun and excitement. You can visit the Walt Disney World, the Universal Orlando Resort, or the SeaWorld Orlando. You can also enjoy the International Drive, the Orlando Eye, or the Orlando Science Center.

I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Florida!

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Laura grew up in the Atlanta area, and most of her family still lives in the area. Because of that along with it being road-trip distance from our place in JAX, we find our way up there quite a bit. Here is a video introducing each of our home states.

Laura’s parents have a place on Lake Oconee in Reynolds, so we spend quite a bit of time up there whenever we visit Georgia.

We also made our way to one of the best Christmas light displays in December 2023 at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens.

Georgia offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some top travel recommendations:

Savannah

– Historic District: Wander through cobblestone streets, historic homes, and beautiful squares.

– Forsyth Park: A large city park with walking paths, fountains, and gardens.

– River Street: Enjoy shops, restaurants, and scenic views along the Savannah River.

Atlanta

– Georgia Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world.

– Atlanta Botanical Garden: Features stunning plant collections and seasonal exhibits.

– Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: Learn about the life and legacy of Dr. King.

Blue Ridge Mountains

– Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: Take a scenic train ride through the mountains.

– Hiking and Waterfalls: Explore trails and waterfalls, such as Amicalola Falls.

Coastal Georgia

– Jekyll Island: Offers beaches, historic sites, and outdoor activities.

– St. Simons Island: Known for its charming village, lighthouse, and beaches.

– Cumberland Island National Seashore: A pristine island with wild horses and historic ruins.

Athens

– University of Georgia: Tour the beautiful campus and visit the Georgia Museum of Art.

– Downtown Athens: Enjoy vibrant nightlife, music venues, and local eateries.

Macon

– Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park: Explore ancient Native American earthworks.

– The Allman Brothers Band Museum: A must-visit for music fans.

Augusta

– Augusta Canal National Heritage Area: Offers boat tours, trails, and historic sites.

– The Masters Tournament: If you’re a golf fan, visiting during this iconic event is a must.

These are just a few highlights. Georgia has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or vibrant city life.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We went to Hawaii for our honeymoon in September 2016. Our time was spent on Maui and specifically the Wailea area, but we did check out the other parts of the island as well, including the road to Hana, Haleakalā, and Lahaina. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Hawaii is a fantastic destination with so much to offer! Here are some recommendations to help you plan your trip:

Islands to Visit

Oahu: Known for its vibrant city life in Honolulu, famous Waikiki Beach, and historical sites like Pearl Harbor.

Maui: Offers beautiful beaches, the scenic Road to Hana, and Haleakalā National Park for stunning sunrise views.

Kauai: Known as the “Garden Isle,” it’s perfect for lush landscapes, hiking the Nāpali Coast, and Waimea Canyon.

Big Island (Hawaii Island): Home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, and diverse climates.

Molokai: Ideal for a more laid-back, authentic Hawaiian experience with fewer tourists.

Lanai: Great for luxury resorts and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Activities

Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the underwater world at places like Hanauma Bay (Oahu) or Molokini Crater (Maui).

Hiking: Trails like the Kalalau Trail (Kauai) or the Kīlauea Iki Trail (Big Island) offer breathtaking views.

Surfing: Try surfing lessons on Waikiki Beach or watch the pros at the Banzai Pipeline (Oahu).

Cultural Experiences: Attend a traditional lūʻau, visit historical sites, and learn about Hawaiian culture and history.

Whale Watching: Best from December to April, especially around Maui.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to November): These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better rates.

Travel Tips

Rent a Car: Essential for exploring the islands at your own pace.

Pack Light: Casual, comfortable clothing is key. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen!

Plan Ahead: Popular activities and accommodations can book up quickly, so make reservations in advance.

Have a fantastic trip! 🌺

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

We went on a road-trip out west during June and July 2019. Idaho was our eleventh stop, and we visited Boise and Idaho Falls. Here is a video of some of our time there.

Idaho is a fantastic destination with a variety of attractions and activities to suit different interests. Here are some recommendations:

1. Boise

Boise, the capital city, offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. You can explore the Boise River Greenbelt, visit the Boise Art Museum, and enjoy the vibrant downtown area with its restaurants and shops.

2. Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the summer. The scenic beauty and outdoor activities make it a year-round favorite.

3. Sawtooth National Recreation Area

This area is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for camping and fishing. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve

Experience the unique volcanic landscapes at Craters of the Moon. It’s a great spot for hiking, caving, and stargazing.

5. Shoshone Falls

Often referred to as the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is a breathtaking waterfall on the Snake River. It’s higher than Niagara Falls and offers beautiful views and picnic spots.

6. Coeur d’Alene

This charming town is known for its beautiful lake, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts scene. You can enjoy boating, fishing, and exploring the local shops and galleries.

7. Hells Canyon

Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America. It’s perfect for white-water rafting, fishing, and hiking.

8. McCall

McCall is a lovely mountain town with a picturesque lake, great for boating, fishing, and winter sports. The annual Winter Carnival is a highlight.

9. Idaho Wine Country

Explore the wineries in the Snake River Valley and enjoy some of Idaho’s best wines. The scenic vineyards and tasting rooms make for a relaxing day trip.

10. Sandpoint

Located on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint offers beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and a charming downtown area with shops and restaurants.

These are just a few highlights, but Idaho has much more to offer. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing in nature, you’ll find something to love in Idaho.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.

Illinois offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from vibrant city life to serene natural landscapes. Here are some top recommendations:

Chicago

Millennium Park: Home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (often called “The Bean”) and beautiful gardens.

Art Institute of Chicago: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., featuring an extensive collection of artworks.

Navy Pier: A popular destination with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Springfield

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: Explore the life and legacy of the 16th president.

Lincoln Home National Historic Site: Visit the preserved home of Abraham Lincoln.

Southern Illinois

Shawnee National Forest: Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding.

Garden of the Gods: Known for its stunning rock formations and scenic views.

Great River Road

Scenic Drives: Follow the Mississippi River along Illinois’ western border for picturesque views and charming towns.

Starved Rock State Park

Hiking Trails: Famous for its beautiful canyons and waterfalls.

Galena

Historic Town: Known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and charming downtown area.

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or urban adventures, Illinois has something to offer.

Check out our recommendations on Trip Advisor to help plan your next trip or to book a tour. You can also use Yelp and Open Table for more ideas as well as restaurant reservations. More photos from our visit are posted on Instagram and Facebook.