Wondering what to wear on a safari? Packing for an African safari can seem overwhelming, but with the right plan, you can ensure you’re well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure. From early morning game drives to sunny afternoons by the pool, South Africa’s diverse climate means your packing list needs to cover all scenarios. This essential safari packing guide will help you know exactly what safari clothes to pack for a successful and comfortable trip Key…

I FINALLY made it to Capri! I’ve spent a lot of time in Italy but never made it to the Amalfi Coast or Capri (shameful, I know). So after our recent Windstar Cruise from Barcelona to Rome, we decided to tack on a few days and visit Capri. We had one experience on Capri that was truly the highlight of our 2-week European trip. You’ll have to read on to learn what it is –…

Hopefully you’ve read my article on planning a South African safari, so now I want to tell you about the best luxury African safari lodge, Arathusa Safari Lodge. My brother and SIL had stayed at the lodge a few years ago so why reinvent perfection? I’m a bit OCD when it comes to trip planning, and especially about where I’ll be staying. I’m a homebody because I love my creature comforts (and my creatures) so…

Do nighttime routines work? Sleep is more than just a time for your body to rest. This is the time when your bodily functions are actually pressing their own reset button. All of your systems slow down and your muscles and organs work to repair and restore themselves. So it’s important that you have a bedtime routine to prepare your body for all this work it has to do while you’re sleeping. Just make yourself…

Historic St. Augustine, Florida, offers a rich mix of history, charm, and exceptional cuisine. Known as the oldest city in the U.S., it blends ancient landmarks with modern culture, making it an ideal getaway for couples, families, or friends. From historic sites to top-rated restaurants, St. Augustine is a must-visit for anyone seeking unique experiences. As a 20-year local, I’ve explored every part of this beautiful city. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite things…

It’s heartbreaking to think about all the animals sitting in shelters these days, especially due to overcrowding. But there are some ways you can help homeless animals and brighten their day. If you’re shopping, consider picking up some discounted pet toys and donate them to your local animal shelter. You don’t even have to make a special shopping trip – just grab some pet toys on sale at your grocery store, big box store, or…

After the laborious, and quite frankly, sad, task of cleaning out my mother’s home when she passed away, it got me thinking about all of my own stuff and how to alleviate this burden for my own children. My mother’s aneurysm incapacitated her quickly which meant she had no time to “get her affairs in order.” So dealing with disorganization in the midst of downsizing was challenging. If you’re facing that daunting task of decluttering…

When my kids were young, just 7 and 9, we moved to Italy because I wanted them to see the world and realize that there is so much beyond the U.S. In our 2+ short years there, we traveled extensively throughout Europe seeing so many countries and experiencing so many cultures. I spent a lot of time looking for the best family vacation ideas. People, including the headmaster at my kids’ school, could not understand…

Planning an African safari can seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and a clear guide, it can become the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you’re worried about vaccinations, travel logistics, or the best safari destinations, or even African safari cost, this guide will help you navigate the process. After experiencing the best South African safari myself, I’ve compiled all the essential tips you need to plan your own unforgettable trip. Planning the…

Most visitors flock to Lake Como in hopes of catching a glimpse of the island’s most famous resident, George Clooney. But many are missing out on what is truly the region’s most impressive lake, Lago Maggiore. Over the years, I’ve recommended choosing Lake Maggiore vs. Lake Como. People thank me for introducing them to this surprising destination in Italy’s lake region. Surrounded by mountains and a rigid coastline, Lake Maggiore has a completely different vibe…