Following a bout with the dreaded Covid, I was feeling really sluggish so I went to visit my functional health medicine doctor at the Mayo Clinic. My chief complaint was feeling tired all the time, but also some recent stubborn weight gain (could be menopause, could be all those pandemic hot dogs). His prescription? The Prolon Fasting Mimicking Diet. He said that he and his wife do it four times a year just to boost …

People often ask about my favorite trip or the best place I’ve traveled to. But for me, it’s not so much about the places as it is the experiences. I’ve had adventurous experiences, culturally enlightening one, great foodie trips and so many more. But one of the most unique experiences I’ve had was sailing on a historic schooner along the coast of Maine.  I found myself at the docks of Rockland ready to embark on …

Imagine gliding through the picturesque landscapes of France, surrounded by lush vineyards, charming villages, and historic towns—all from the comfort of a beautifully appointed barge. It’s a unique way to explore the heart of the French countryside, providing an intimate experience that larger cruises simply cannot match. I’ve taken just about every kind of “boat” in my travels, from windjammers to river cruises to traditional party cruises, but a recent barge cruise was truly unlike …

I’m as guilty as most others about only seeing a destination through the lens of my phone camera. The only way I seem to be able to unplug when I travel is if I go to a destination that has no coverage. And that’s not easy these days!  But you’re kind of defeating the purpose of traveling if you’re constantly looking at your phone. So it’s important to learn to unplug when you travel.  Heck, …

Cleaning out a loved one’s home after they pass is an emotional and daunting task. Recently, I had to face this challenge while sorting through my mother’s belongings. Like many of her generation, my mother was a collector, keeping everything from her wedding dress to fine china and even plastic salt and pepper shakers she “acquired” on her honeymoon. While these items held sentimental value to her, my kids – like many Gen Xers and …

Patagonia, the Southernmost point in South America that straddles Argentina and Chile, is one of the most popular destinations among outdoor enthusiasts but what many travelers don’t realize is that it’s also an amazing food and wine destination that also offers a touch of luxury and a laid-back lifestyle. It’s a vast region that’s perfect for a little exploration, engagement, and indulgence. From turquoise blue lakes to towering granite cliffs to glaciers and icebergs, there’s …

The Gryphon Press is committed to publishing beautifully illustrated children’s picture books that have received numerous awards and accolades. These books center around the vital theme of the human-animal bond, aiming to instill empathy for animals and motivate children to become advocates for animal welfare. The organization’s overarching mission is to shed light on the pressing issues faced by animals—be they domestic, wild, or farmed—while fostering a deep sense of empathy for all forms of …

Ugh. Those dreaded overnight flights can be so incredibly unbearable and downright uncomfortable. But if you want to travel overseas, you don’t have many options. I’m a diva sleeper so it’s especially hard for me to get comfortable, much less sleep, sitting upright on a plane. I have some tips for packing for an overnight flight that will help you make the most of it. As a travel writer, I’ve taken many overnight flights and …

Last year, I sailed on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima, one of the brand’s new luxury class cruiseships. I’m not a fan of the mega-cruise ships but the Prima is different. Even though it accommodates 3,100 guests, it feels much more intimate because of some cool new design concepts coupled with the highest staff-to-guest ratio. Launched in 2022, the Prima is one of the newest ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet. It offers modern luxury with …

Who doesn’t love Aruba? I mean, it’s got a little bit of something for everyone. It’s a top destination for summer vacations, partly because it lies outside the hurricane belt, which is a surprise to many people! Last time I was there, it was the winter months (my favorite time to go) so I was excited to go back and explore a bit more of the island, and a new resort. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort …