Canada's vast, captivating scenery is excellent for budget-friendly adventure. Many travelers incorrectly assume that navigating this country requires a prohibitive financial expenditure. Strategic planning unlocks amazing experiences without dipping into required savings funds. Smart budgeting changes an ultimate Canadian dream vacation from a pricey fantasy to a real possibility. Cost-control necessitates dedicated research and an open mind to … [Read more...]
Catalina Island to Host First-Ever Mermaid Festival October 25–26, 2025
AVALON, Calif. – Oct. 20, 2025 – Catalina Island is diving into something brand new this fall: the inaugural Catalina Island Mermaid Festival, splashing into Avalon Oct. 25–26. The free, family-friendly celebration will transform Avalon's waterfront into an under-the-sea playground of art, music, food, and - of course - mermaids. The festival kicks off Saturday, October 25, at 10 a.m. along Crescent Avenue with nearly 20 ocean-themed artist … [Read more...]
6 Michelin Star Restaurants in Japan for you to try in 2026
Japan is world-famous for its rich culinary heritage, with unique creations that have been imitated worldwide for years. Ramen, one-of-a-kind sushi, and exquisitely raised wagyu beef are sought after by millions yearly, earning Japan the status of the second country with the most Michelin-Star Restaurants. One-star, two-star, and many three-star establishments are dotted throughout Japan—some specializing in Japanese cuisine, others blending … [Read more...]
Abra: The Hidden Charms of Highland Culture
The morning air carried the scent of pine as our jeepney navigated the winding roads of Cordillera. My destination, Abra Province, remained largely unknown to international travelers—a hidden gem in Northern Luzon, Philippines. As we climbed higher into the mountains, leaving behind the tourist-filled streets of Baguio City, I found myself wondering what secrets this remote province might hold. Abra sits nestled between mountains and rivers, … [Read more...]
The QE2 Sails Again! This Time… On a Culinary Journey
Around the World in 80 Days — launching October 1 to December 19 2025. From Southampton to Singapore, Marseille to Mumbai — One Ship. Eighty Destinations. Infinite Flavours. This October, the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) will set sail on a new kind of voyage – one of flavour, culture, and nostalgia – with the launch of an extraordinary culinary series, Around the World in 80 Days. Running for 80 nights from 1 October to 19 December … [Read more...]
East Coast Escapade: A Whirlwind Adventure
I caught a red eye from California to JFK in New York but before I left, our flight was delayed 90 minutes due to crew who had not yet arrived at the airport. This and other delays have plagued nearly most of my flights this year - although this wasn't as bad as sitting on the tarmac in Germany earlier in the year for nearly 6 hours for maintenance issues and then having to go back to the gate because the flight was ultimately canceled. And … [Read more...]
Catalina Island to Host First-Ever Mermaid Festival October 25–26, 2025
AVALON, Calif. – Sept. 25, 2025 – Catalina Island is diving into something brand new this fall: the inaugural Catalina Island Mermaid Festival, splashing into Avalon Oct. 25–26. The free, family-friendly celebration will transform Avalon’s waterfront into an under-the-sea playground of art, music, food, and - of course - mermaids. The festival kicks off Saturday, October 25, at 10 a.m. along Crescent Avenue with nearly 20 ocean-themed artist … [Read more...]
How Travelers Can Stay Flexible With Their Budgets
Travel is anything but predictable. Flights run late, attractions shut unexpectedly, exchange rates shift, and unplanned opportunities have a way of popping up. Even the most carefully designed itinerary can change in an instant, and when it does, your budget usually takes the first hit. Nobody wants to spend a trip stressed about expenses, but running out of money too soon can end the adventure early or force tough compromises. The key isn’t … [Read more...]
Travel Expert: 10 Europe Money Tips Worth Remembering
Summer is at its end in Europe, and the heat can make it harder to think clearly, especially when you’re juggling train schedules, restaurant menus and payment options in a new country. "In Europe, the small things can shape your whole trip, a bit of preparation means more time enjoying and less time sorting out the unexpected, whether it’s how you pay, where you eat, or getting around smoothly." - Andrea Moradei, founder of the Italian wine … [Read more...]
Embracing the Rain
Terceire, Azores: Smiles in abundance, umbrella needed The plane touched down in high winds, and I almost wanted to cheer the pilot. Normally, I'm pretty calm in planes, but it was a wobbly landing with loads of turbulence, and we both released our breath when the little plane bumped on the tarmac. Peeking out of the small porthole, I scanned the landscape. Luscious greens in all shades, a few hills, a blue sky and of course the … [Read more...]