Blog Archives

Travel Tips- What I have Learned......

2/27/2018

Travel Tips that Make Sense

Travel has been a passion of mine for a while but since my children are grown and my nest is empty I have been able to indulge this passion much more often. Over the last few years I have learned a few things that can make a huge difference in how any trip turns out. Here are my top tips that I hope will be of use to you as you explore our world one trip at a time.

What To Pack...............Well.........

Well NO not The Kitchen Sink!

Let me begin by being very general and vague. What you pack really does depend on the trip you are taking. Obviously length of the trip, climate and, selected activities will all have a major impact on what you put in that suitcase. Having said that there are some specific items that I include on every trip.

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#KeysRoadTrip......Part II

2/24/2018

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After some great stops along the way we headed to Key Largo for our last night in the Keys. Next Stop Hampton Inn, Key Largo.

Although this hotel had great reviews we just weren’t expecting this Hampton Inn to offer so much, if you are in Key Largo stay here.
One of the things we had hoped to do while on the Keys was kayak .Unfortunately because of Irma all the kayak businesses were in the process of re-establishing due to so much damage. Even the state parks were partially closed and there was not a kayak to be had. We were pleasantly surprise to find that the Hampton had its own private beach with kayaks for rent and so much more. We spent a few hours kayaking then lazing on the beach watching the manatee that came so very close and then we watched a most beautiful sunset before we headed out for dinner. The next morning we were totally entertained by the enormous lizards who clearly know the exact times for breakfast. This turned out to be a really great place to end our time on the Keys.

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Florida Keys Roadtrip

2/21/2018

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On November 3rd, 2017 we celebrated 30 years of marriage. We had determined that a short road trip was our only option as we were on a tight schedule in the middle of the school year. My plans for the trip began as soon as we returned from our summer road trip through Washington and Oregon. But as the saying goes “the best laid plans”- certainly need to be flexible when you travel!
Hurricane Irma with all its force hit the Keys in September; we all saw the utter devastation that was left in its wake. After little debate we decided to continue with our plans given the fact our tourist dollars could do more good there than any place else we might choose.
It was a good decision. Our 4 day road trip was incredible. Yes, we saw unbelievable beauty juxtaposed with unthinkable damage but wherever we went we were welcomed and thanked and we witnessed true resilience and strength. Conch strength!

Overnight in Hollywood Beach

Hollywood,Beach FL

We stayed a block from the boardwalk so although we arrived at 9:00pm we were still able to walk on the boardwalk and have dinner and drinks watching the waves. The next morning we were up for an early start but we first took a walk on the boardwalk. I fell in love with this beach and the boardwalk. No doubt it was the time of year but the weather was beautiful and the beach quiet. Locals were out and about bike riding or walking dogs’. Although our time there was very short I loved it and would love to really explore the area another time but for now the Keys were calling us.

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Seattle In A Day

2/19/2018

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Last Summer I planned a road trip around the coastline of Washington State down through Oregon and back. Our journey began in a City I have yearned to visit, Seattle. We had one day and we were making the most of that day!!!
Tips for a Visit to Seattle:

If you are traveling from Dallas Alaska Airlines are awesome and very reasonable prices.
Hotels are expensive but if you in Seattle for a short time choose one in the center so you can spend your time visiting sights.
Summertime is your best chance of decent weather- we had a glorious day of sunshine!
Explore the city by foot you will see so much more.
Public transportation is quick, easy and inexpensive- street cars and trains.
Prioritize- if you only have a day like we did pre-planning and prioritizing is essential.

Must Do in a Day

Here is what we did in a day……………..
Arrived on Alaska Airlines and headed right to our hotel in downtown Seattle. We stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Vintage. Normally I loved to splurge on a Kimpton but this particular was a disappointment and I don’t recommend it. We were able to store our luggage and head out on our adventure. Here are some highlights and what I would say are “Must do’s” in Seattle.

1st Stop Pike's Market- hugely touristy but if everyone is there is must be worth a stop right? You decide!

While you are here be sure and get in line for some of the best macaroni cheese you will ever taste at Beecher's.

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The Best Day Trip Ever........

2/7/2018

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St.Malo

I love to take day trips. The idea of exploring a new place always excites me weather it is around the corner or on a different continent. If I haven’t had a chance to travel for a while I love to plan a local day trip but I also love to day trip when I’m actually on vacation. I know this may seem like a totally bizarre concept but it really isn’t. Let me explain how a little planning and willingness to explore can turn a wonderful vacation into a truly memorable one.

My mother and I have taken many vacations together this one began on the beautiful island of Jersey. Initially the plan was to spend our time relaxing and gently discovering all that Jersey has to offer -Jersey does have so much to offer. On further consideration after a little research I realized that a day trip to St. Malo, France was easily a possibility. I decided to surprise my Mom and purchase ferry tickets so that we could spend a day in the beautiful historic town of St.Malo.
I think my mother would agree this turned out to be the best day trip ever!

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February 4th, 2018

2/4/2018

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Dornoch,Scotland

2/4/2018

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On one of my trips to the UK I travelled north with my mother and sister-in-law. It was her first visit to the UK and we wanted her to see a little of what Scotland has to offer. We were only there for a few days but Dornoch Beach, the town of Dornoch and some of the places we visited in the surrounding area were quite spectacular. My sister-in-law fell in love with Scotland as will you if you have the opportunity to visit.

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By Special Request

2/3/2018

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Highlights of Past Trips to the UK

I was born and raised in the steel town of Sheffield,South Yorkshire. After attending Liverpool University I left on my first extensive trip outside of the UK. Some friends and I headed to Israel with a backpack and youth on our side. The love of travel was born. To cut a long story short a year later I found myself living in Germany where I met and married the love of my life ,an American! I have now resided in the States for almost 30 years and during that time I have been drawn back to the UK frequently to visit family and to ensure my children knew their heritage. In the last few years my nest has been empty so I have enjoyed to ability to travel and see more of the UK. Here are some highlights of trips over the years. If you are considering a trip try and make it a priority to visit more than just London.

Area surrounding my hometown of Sheffield.

Keep Calm and Drink Tea........

One of the things I miss the most about home is the food and drinks. I know what you are thinking; British food that's for the birds. Well I happen to love British food and if you know what to eat I think you will too. If you ever get the chance to visit be sure to try some of the food that I have highlighted here……………cheers!!!