The Honest Travel Advice Blog
Real trips, honest takes, and what I wish someone had told me before I booked. Italy, Greece, river cruises, safaris, grad trips, and the rest of Europe, from a travel advisor who’s actually been there.
Search for something specific:
Start Here
New here? These are the questions I ask every client, whether you’re dreaming about Italy, a safari, or a river cruise.
"Off the Beaten Path" Is the Most Misunderstood Phrase in Travel
Most travelers say they want "off the beaten path." What they actually mean is: I don't want to feel like a tourist. Here's the difference — and why it matters for how you plan your trip.
Apartment or Hotel: Which Is Right for Your Trip?
Where you stay changes everything about how a trip feels. Here's how to actually think through the hotel vs. apartment decision — before you book the wrong one.
Mediterranean Cruise: Is It the Right Fit for Your European 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.
Hotels in Europe: What You Really Need to Know Before You Book 🛏️✨
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.
Am I the Right Travel Advisor for You?
Not every travel advisor is right for every traveler. Here’s how I work, what my $250 planning fee covers, who I’m a great fit for, and who’s better off somewhere else.
Travel Smarter: My Preferred Partners, Tools & Trusted Resources
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.
Where We've Been & What We Use
Every pin is a real trip. A real client. A real memory that didn't exist before someone decided to stop saying someday.
Tauck River Cruises Review: The One Everyone Wants (Book Early)
Tauck is the river cruise everyone asks for, and the one that sells out first. Early access, small groups, Tauck’s own guides onboard, and everything included. Here’s who it’s worth it for.
Scenic vs. Emerald River Cruises: What’s the Difference (and Why I Book More Scenic)
Scenic and Emerald share the same modern look, but only Scenic is truly all-inclusive, and only Scenic gives you a butler. Here’s how to pick, and why I book more Scenic.
Riverside Luxury Cruises Review: The River Line My Clients Can’t Stop Talking About
Riverside lets you choose what’s in your fare, it includes gratuities at every level, and my clients come home obsessed with the food and service. It’s the river line I keep booking, and the one I want to sail next.
Riviera Travel River Cruise Review: Solid, Very British, and Great for Solos
Riviera didn’t knock my socks off, but it’s solid. The food is good, the guarantees are the best on the river, and its solo-only sailings with no single supplement are hard to beat. Just know it’s British, not American, hospitality.
Amadeus River Cruises Review: Best for Independent Travelers | Adventure Smarter — Adventure Smarter
Amadeus is the floating hotel of river cruising. Excursions aren’t built into the fare, so you only pay for what you’ll use. It’s great for independent travelers, solos, and groups who want their own guides.
