Thinking about taking a trip without your kids? Cue the emotional rollercoaster. One minute you’re daydreaming about quiet dinners and uninterrupted sleep… the next, you’re spiraling about who’s packing lunch on library day.

Here’s the truth: you can have an incredible, soul-filling getaway and feel totally at ease leaving your family behind—if you prep the right way. I’ve done it, I help clients do it all the time, and this post is packed with the exact tools I use to keep things calm, clear, and chaos-free while I’m away.

Start here to get my free “While We’re Away” template and learn how to leave home without leaving behind your peace of mind.

No matter where you go, some travel questions follow you everywhere—from “Where are you from?” to “Still or sparkling?” I started keeping track, and yep… the hits just keep coming. Here’s how I answer them (and how you might want to, too).

Dreaming of “off the beaten path” but still want a hot shower and a killer cappuccino? Same. Let’s ditch the buzzwords and talk real-deal authenticity—small-town limoncello, family-run vineyards, and cozy beds included. Adventure doesn’t have to equal roughing it.

Hotel or apartment? It’s one of the most common questions I get—and the answer really depends on how you travel.

If you’re arriving early after a red-eye, traveling with kids, or hoping for daily housekeeping, a hotel might be your best friend. But if you want more space, a kitchen, and that “live like a local” feel… apartments shine.

In this post, I’m breaking down the real pros and cons of each—plus sharing how I book vetted rentals (no shady listings here) and when I recommend one over the other for my own trips.

Because where you stay? It can shape the entire vibe of your adventure.

Thinking about seeing Europe by cruise ship? You're not alone—and honestly, you might be onto something. For many travelers (especially families or first-timers), a Mediterranean cruise offers the best of both worlds: multiple destinations, one unpack. But is it right for you?

As someone who’s sailed everything from luxury lines to family-friendly ships, I break down what to expect—who cruising works best for, where it might fall short, and what no one tells you about port days.

Before you book that “easy” trip across Europe, read this first. Because the right cruise? Game changer. The wrong one? Well… let’s just say you’ll be Googling train schedules by day three.

Planning a family trip to Europe? Before you hit “book” on that dreamy hotel, here’s what most people don’t realize: in Europe, the room size (and guest count rules!) aren’t quite like the U.S.—and trust me, it matters a lot when you’re jet-lagged with toddlers. As a mom of two, I’ve learned what to look for (and what to avoid). From capacity limits and neighborhood vibes to whether there’s actually air conditioning… this is the real talk guide to finding the right stay for your family—without the travel meltdowns.

Planning a big trip and wondering if I’m the right person to help? Here’s what I bring to the table—from custom food maps and curated pre-trip recs to in-destination support and post-travel follow-up. If you want a trip that feels like you (without doing it all yourself), this one’s for you.

Overwhelmed by Google tabs and travel recs from your neighbor’s cousin’s friend? I’ve got you. This guide is a one-stop shop for my go-to travel tools, packing gear, and preferred partners—aka the brands I actually use (and trust) to make trip planning smoother, smarter, and more fun.

From cruise lines and travel insurance to excursions, luggage storage, and that one adapter I never leave home without—it’s all here, with links that help me help you.

Let’s skip the guesswork and make your next trip easier from the start.

Explore our interactive "Client Travels" map to see where we've sent travelers around the world—from Europe to Africa, Asia, and beyond. Even if we haven’t been there personally, we plan every trip with expert partners and insider insight to create custom, seamless travel experiences.

I recently stepped aboard a Tauck River Cruise to find out what all the buzz is really about—and let me tell you, it’s not just a cruise. It’s a complete shift in how travel can feel. This isn’t about over-the-top luxury or endless ship amenities. It’s about thoughtful details, priority access, and a deep respect for the places you visit.

Tauck isn’t just taking you to Europe. It’s curating the experience with intention—from early entry at iconic sites to a crew that treats every guest like the only one on board.

If you’ve ever wished for a calmer, smarter, more meaningful way to travel—Tauck might be exactly what you didn’t know you needed.

I recently boarded both Scenic and Emerald River Cruise ships—and let’s just say, they understood the assignment. These ships are sleek, modern, and full of surprises (like a pool that turns into a cinema!).

Scenic brings the ultra-luxury, all-inclusive energy, while Emerald delivers a polished, elevated experience with a touch more flexibility. Both feel like boutique hotels on water—perfect for travelers who care about style, comfort, and a fresh take on river cruising.

If you're looking to cruise in serious style—with wellness spaces, chic lounges, and some bougie bells and whistles—these might just be your new favorite way to float.

After just two hours aboard Riverside Luxury Cruises, I knew: this is what I’ve been waiting for. It’s river cruising, reimagined—with flexible pricing, wellness-forward spaces, and a vibe that feels more boutique hotel than traditional cruise ship.

Riverside is speaking to a new kind of traveler (hi, it’s me), and honestly? They’re nailing it. If you’ve ever wanted the freedom to cruise your way—without paying for a bunch of extras you don’t want—this might be your perfect fit.

Stepping aboard a Riviera Travel river cruise felt less like a typical ship visit and more like being welcomed into a beautifully appointed British home. Elegant, warm, and refreshingly unpretentious, Riviera blends classic charm with thoughtful service—and even offers a Happiness Guarantee if it’s not the right fit by Day 2.

If you’re craving a premium river cruise experience with zero fuss, a touch of British flair, and genuine hospitality, Riviera just might be the one for you.

Curious about river cruising but not into rigid schedules or stuffy dining rooms? Let me introduce you to Amadeus. With a vibe that’s all about flexibility, freedom, and making the trip your own, this is a cruise line that lets you set the pace.

In this post, I’m breaking down who Amadeus is perfect for (hello, families and independent explorers) and when it might not be the right fit. Because like any great trip, finding the right cruise line is all about the vibe.