In 2026, the world is busier and more "digital" than ever. But I’m here to tell you that stress-free family travel is not a myth. It just takes a shift in strategy. Here are my top 10 tips for keeping your cool and your connection on your next family adventure.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica Costa Rica is a year-round destination! The best time to visit depends on your travel goals: December–April (Dry Season): This is the most popular time to visit Costa Rica. Expect sunny weather, perfect for beaches, hiking, and outdoor excursions. May–June (Green Season): Enjoy fewer crowds, lush landscapes, and better value. This is perfect for travelers seeking a quieter experience. July–August: A great option for family travel, with active wil

Looking for sun, sea, and adventure? Los Cabos is the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement! Did you know there are 2 main Cabos? Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo! Both offer very different experiences. Choosing the right area can make all the difference in your trip.

When most people plan a trip to Mexico, they picture white sand and bottomless margaritas. While those are iconic, the region stretching from Cancun to Tulum offers natural wonders and ancient history you literally cannot find anywhere else on Earth. If you’re looking for the most authentic and unforgettable Riviera Maya excursions in 2026, here are four "only-in-Mexico" experiences that belong at the top of your list. Why These Are the Best Riviera Maya Excursions for 2026

When people find out I’m a travel advisor, they often ask why they should work with a travel advisor vs booking online . It’s a fair question, and it’s one I hear often. But there are a few things many travelers don’t realize about how working with a travel advisor actually works. Here are a few things worth knowing before you plan your next trip. You’re Often Paying for a Travel Advisor Whether You Use One or Not Many travel suppliers, including hotels, cruise lines, and tou

If you're planning international travel, one of the first things you’ll need is a valid passport. As a travel advisor, one of the most common issues I see when clients begin planning a trip is discovering their passport has expired, or that their children don’t have one yet. The good news is that applying for or renewing a passport is usually straightforward if you know what to expect. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the process. Who Needs a Passport? Every U.S.

“When is the best time to visit Paris?” The truth is, Paris is beautiful year-round. But the experience can feel very different depending on when you go. I have been to Paris 2 times, both in March. My husband visited two additional times in November and December. Here’s how I usually break it down for my clients.

“When is the best time to visit Italy?” The honest answer? It depends on what kind of experience you want. Because Italy in July feels very different from Italy in October. And both are very different from April. Let me break it down the way I do for my clients.

Don’t Panic, I’ve Got You We’ve all been there. You’re at the airport, second coffee in hand (obviously), and you glance at the departure board only to see those dreaded red letters: CANCELLED . Your heart sinks. You start thinking about the missed connection, the lost hotel night, and the "Great Luggage Hunger Games" about to happen at the service desk. But here is the secret: In 2026, you have more power than ever before. Between new federal rules and my "unrushed" approach

If you’ve been following my travels, you know I’m a huge advocate for the "Experience-First" vacation. And honestly, there is no better way to lean into that than a European river cruise. Imagine only unpacking once, but waking up every morning in a new medieval village or a world-class capital. No trains to catch, no luggage to drag over cobblestones, just you, a glass of local Riesling, and the best views in Europe drifting past your balcony. But with so many rivers to choo

Travel from the San Francisco Bay Bridge to the Tower Bridge in London.

Why the "Right Time" Isn't Just a Season I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve walked through the open-air lobbies of Sandals, from the lush, jungle vibes of Ochi to the high-tech luxury of the new Royal Curaçao. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned from my own stays (and my many coffee-fueled planning sessions), it’s that "When to book" is about a lot more than just the weather. In 2026, the game has changed slightly. Whether you’re a first-timer or a "Sandals Select" regu

If you’ve been following my newsletters, you know I have a bit of a "thing" for Ireland. And no, I don't mean the Shamrock-sunglasses-and-green-beer kind of thing (but yes I wear them and yes I drink it, lol!). I mean the mist-rising-over-the-Atlantic, ancient-stone-walls, and "stay-up-too-late-talking-to-a-local-in-the-pub" kind of thing. Ireland is one of those rare places that actually lives up to the hype, but only if you plan it right. The secret to a great Irish getaway

I’ll be honest: I had a preconceived notion of what New Orleans would be like during Mardi Gras. I expected crowds, chaos, and maybe a little too much "party." I couldn't have been more wrong. After a long weekend in the Crescent City, my mind is completely blown. New Orleans during Carnival isn't just a party; it’s a masterclass in history, tradition, and soul. What made this trip even more special? I experienced it with a group of friends I’ve been traveling with for 10 yea

When I stepped aboard the Queen Mary 2 recently, I realized quickly that I wasn’t just touring a ship—I was stepping into a piece of living history. In an era of "mega-ships" with go-kart tracks and neon lights, the Queen Mary 2 (QM2) stands in a category of her own. She isn’t your typical cruise ship; she is a true ocean liner, built specifically for the iconic Transatlantic Crossing. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to sail with the elegance of the "Golden Age of Trav

Don’t let rain get in the way of a magical Disneyland vacation; the rainy days have been some of our best days at Disneyland!

When planning a tropical getaway, the most important question is often: When is the best time to visit Mexico and the Caribbean?  For many travelers, these regions are the "gold standard" for sun and sand, but the experience changes dramatically depending on the month you choose. In 2026, finding that "perfect" window means balancing weather, crowds, and the exciting new infrastructure like the Tren Maya. The secret to a successful trip isn’t just picking a beach; it’s matchi

There is a specific kind of silence you only find in the North. It’s the sound of a massive glacier "calving" into the sea, the distant blow of a humpback whale, and the wind moving through ancient cedar forests. For many of my clients, Alaska and Canada represent the ultimate "close-to-home" adventure. You get the drama of the Swiss Alps and the wildlife of an African safari, all without the jet lag of traveling overseas. If you’ve been dreaming of wide-open spaces and crisp

Tabacón Costa Rica Resort is ideal for travelers who want adventure paired with relaxation: Close to Arenal Volcano hikes, ziplining, hanging bridges, and waterfalls Naturally heated thermal waters to unwind after activities Easy logistics so you can enjoy excursions without stress It’s perfect for first-time Costa Rica visitors or anyone who wants activity balanced with downtime.

Most travelers don’t realize a simple truth: Booking airfare, hotels, and activities separately isn’t always cheaper—and it’s almost never easier. When we build a travel package together, you aren’t just bundling dates. You’re buying a strategy, built-in protection, and serious leverage. Here is why the "bundle" wins every time: