If you’ve missed previous newsletter emails that I’ve sent out, you can find them below! I don’t archive the What to Be Planning ones because they are typically only relevant in the month they are sent. Let me know if any of these make you eager to travel!
Located between Greece and Montenegro along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Albania is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. It combines rugged mountains, turquoise coastlines, and centuries of history, all without the heavy tourist crowds found in neighboring countries.
Read MoreAn unforgettable father and son journey through the UK and the Netherlands awaits! This repeat client is back with his son for an exciting 10-day journey through the UK, mixing history, culture, and a bit of football action! They’re gearing up to experience some of the best sites, stories, and sports the UK and Netherlands have to offer.
Read MoreLast month I mentioned that I'd be (river) cruising the Rhine and it was so FUN! If you've ever wanted to experience multiple countries in Europe but don't want to have to pack and unpack all the time as you move around, a river cruise is an excellent option for you! I’ve got some of my favorite things about the cruise in this newsletter.
Read MoreIt’s not the most glamorous travel topic, but let’s be real. Bathrooms abroad can be… an adventure of their own. Knowing what to expect (and packing a few essentials) can save you from uncomfortable surprises. Here are some quick tips:
Read MoreTucked between Brazil, Argentina, and Bolivia, Paraguay is often called the “Heart of South America.” It might not be the first place that comes to mind for travelers, but those who explore this country find a land full of contrasts — lively cities, quiet river towns, rich wetlands, and a deep blend of indigenous and colonial history. For U.S. travelers used to popular hotspots, Paraguay feels wonderfully genuine. Life here moves at a gentler rhythm, with afternoon naps still common, strong family bonds at the heart of everyday living, and Guaraní culture woven seamlessly into everything — from the music to the language.
Paraguay offers a wonderful mix of vibrant city life and wide natural landscapes. The capital, Asunción, rests peacefully along the Paraguay River, where colonial buildings stand alongside buzzing cafés and a lively arts scene. Down south, the Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad and Jesús de Tavarangue (both UNESCO sites) share powerful stories of faith and strength. Up north, the Chaco stretches wide and wild, home to unique wildlife, tight-knit Mennonite communities, and a distinctive cowboy way of life. For those who love nature, the Itaipú Dam and nearby reserves are a perfect blend of impressive human achievement and natural beauty.
Read MoreThis month, I’m helping this family plan an unforgettable European adventure. Their journey begins in Barcelona, where the couple will explore the city’s vibrant culture before reuniting with their son, who’s wrapping up a study abroad program. After the family is together, they’ll continue their travels through Italy, with stops in Florence, Rome, and Sorrento.
Read MoreSeptember is always bittersweet, as it marks the end of summer and my kids going back to school (giving me more solid, uninterrupted working time). It also typically marks the month of a big travel conference where I get to see friends & colleagues that I don't often get to see in person. This September also brings me to Europe, to experience a river cruise along the Rhine river!
Read MoreOften overshadowed by more traditional safari spots, Namibia is a dream for travelers who crave beautiful landscapes, adventure, and cultural encounters. From the surreal Sossusvlei dunes to Etosha’s wildlife-rich salt pans and the windswept Skeleton Coast, Namibia is a destination that offers both breathtaking beauty and unforgettable moments.
Read MoreWhen my client came to me, she wanted to explore Norway with her husband and her parents, as their heritage stems from the Scandinavian country. They hope to see a great deal of it while they are there, so I've got them going from Oslo, up to Bodø, over to Ålesund and Geiranger, and down to Bergen.
Read MoreAugust is my favorite, and it's not just because it's my birthday month and I'm a Leo who loves birthday attention! :) It is because some of my favorite local attractions open: The Renaissance Festival, and the Minnesota State Fair (now crowned the best State Fair in the country according to USA Today).
Read MoreIndonesia, where green rice terraces meet volcanic peaks, ancient temples coexist with buzzing modern cities, and turquoise waters hide some of the world’s most biodiverse marine life has more than 17,000 islands! It’s a destination that offers something for every type of traveler, whether you’re chasing adventure, culture, or pure relaxation.
Read MoreThis repeat client had taken her older daughter to Thailand for her 12th birthday and now it's time to take the younger on her 12th birthday trip, this time to New Zealand! They'll be enjoying the Hobbit life - exploring in a cozy and calm way, and enjoying the wildlife of the North Island!
Read MoreSummer travel often means longer days, lively festivals, and vibrant street life—but it can also come with soaring temperatures, especially in Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. Don’t let the heat ruin your adventure! With a few smart strategies, you can stay comfortable, energized, and ready to explore even during the hottest days.
Read MoreChile is a land of extremes, stretching from the driest desert in the world to the icy fjords of Patagonia. This narrow sliver of a country meets the Pacific Coast of South America, offering an incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, and experiences.
Read MoreThis well-traveled family had plans to head to Peru, but wanted assistance with the planning as one of the members wasn't sure they could manage the elevation in Cusco. They wanted an expert to assist and be on call while they traveled, just in case. They are splitting their time between the Amazon rainforest and the Sacred Valley, and it looks like it will be an AMAZING trip!
Read MoreThis month ended the kids' Kindergarten & 4th grade years at school, and it is Malcolm's birthday month! To celebrate, we did a day full of things Malcolm loves: ate giant pancakes for breakfast, went to the Mall of America for candy, rides, and lunch, and had yummy ice cream on the way home. He had a great day, and so did the rest of the family!
Read MoreTucked along the Baltic Sea, Estonia is one of Europe’s most underrated gems. Imagine strolling through Tallinn’s Old Town, where cobbled streets wind past Gothic spires and colorful merchant houses, then catching a digital art exhibition just a few blocks away—this is a place where medieval enchantment meets 21st-century creativity.
Read MoreMay and June are often filled with graduation parties which are fun to attend but can be expensive to host. If you've got someone graduating in 2026, why not do a graduation trip instead of a party? I can guarantee the memories made from a memorable trip will last much longer than those from a grad party!
Read MoreThis was a really fun trip to plan - a family traveling to watch a member participate in the Deaflympics, the International Olympics for Deaf People. Since they are traveling so far, they also wanted to check out Tokyo a bit, as well as the area around Ibaraki, where they are staying to be nearby to the event location.
Read MoreWe got up to the 80's at least this May, so we've been having water balloon games in the front yard a lot, as well as enjoying the summer-like temps. But then poof it was gone again as quickly as it had come, and we went back to 40's gloom and rain.
Also, I’m thrilled to finally share a unique small-group experience in Israel.
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