Initial Thoughts on Guatemala
Now that I’ve been in Guatemala for awhile — longer than most “normal” trips I’ve taken — I think it’s fair to share a few of my initial thoughts and impressions. I’m sure my views will change as I experience more things and settle in more fully and I’m excited that for once I’ll be
In Search of Manta Rays in Hawaii
Near Kona, on the Big Island of Hawaii, are two very famous dive sites known for being the world’s most reliable place to see manta rays. As the story goes, a hotel discovered that the spotlights it beamed into the ocean at night attracted a gathering of manta rays and soon afterwards, started offering trips
Just the Facts: What You Need to Know About The Big Island Hawaii
Usually, choosing a destination for my next set of travels is a carefully thought out endeavor. However, a flash sale on Delta had me booking tickets to Hawaii without much thought or foresight and then doing my research afterward. It still worked out wonderfully, but if you’re thinking about heading to the Big Island, here’s
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Do You Need Travel Insurance?
Confession: Before this year, I never purchased travel insurance. It’s not that I’m particularly careful while traveling; in fact, I revel in trying adventure activities, eating street food, and seeking remote destinations. I just expected to handle things as they came up, and for the 7 years or so that I’ve been traveling independently, it’s worked. Now that I’m
I Quit My Job! (& What’s Next for Becky)
Last week, I quit my job. It’s not the first time I’ve given notice and the act itself isn’t unusual. People leave jobs all the time, whether it’s to work for a new employer, start their own company, or to provide care for children or other family members. The difference between those people and me is
Use Airbnb to Save Money on Vacation
I only recently tried Airbnb, despite knowing about the website for years. If you’re unfamiliar with the premise, Airbnb creates a marketplace for individuals to open their homes to travelers. Lodging options range from a room in someone’s home, an entire property for individual use, or unique stays like a bed in a treehouse. Airbnb touts
Iceland’s Best Known Attraction: The Blue Lagoon
No matter how much research you do ahead of time or how many recommendations you’ve received, there’s no way to guarantee what your experience will be like. I’ve been disappointed at bed and breakfasts that had amazing reviews and I’ve been pleasantly surprised by attractions I expected to be mediocre. Ultimately, on every trip, there
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Beautiful Bell Canyon Hike in Salt Lake City
My weekend in Salt Lake City was such a tease. Utah is a state that beckons to outdoors-lovers, urging you to come play under its big, blue skies. I always considered Moab to be the mecca of the state for adventurers, but perhaps I’m wrong. Maybe it’s actually Salt Lake City, where you can go
My Formula: How to Plan a Romantic Getaway
Back in 2004, I traveled with my boyfriend for the first time. It set a wonderful precedent of spending time together without life’s distractions as well as exploring new places and tackling new challenges as a couple. Nine and a half years later, we’re married and still traveling together. Our most recent trip — to










