Lucerne, Switzerland

Travel Dates: September 2023 Things to do in Lucerne: Explore Lucerne’s iconic bridges: Start with Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge) in the city center, visible from the train station. A 7-minute walk west leads to Spreuerbrücke, or the Dance of Death Bridge, adorned with paintings depicting mortality. Both bridges offer a glimpse into Lucerne’s history and charm.Continue reading “Lucerne, Switzerland”

Banff, Alberta – Canada

Travel Dates: August 2023 Things to do in Banff: Lake Louise: The famous turquoise lake of Banff where you can hike and rent canoes ($155 CA per hour; $95 CA per hour for guests at the Fairmount Hotel). If you are looking for an indoor plumbing bathroom, there’s one in the Fairmount Hotel cafe, TheContinue reading “Banff, Alberta – Canada”

Jasper, Alberta – Canada

Travel Dates: August 2023 Things to do in Jasper: Maligne Lake Cruise: Don’t miss the 1.5-hour Maligne Lake Cruise, with a stop at Spirit Island (only accessible by the boat tour or renting a kayak/canoe and paddling 5+ hours one way). The Classic Cruise option is a popular choice so book well in advance, especiallyContinue reading “Jasper, Alberta – Canada”

Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta – Canada

Travel Dates: August 2023 Things to do in Waterton Park: Bison Paddock Loop Road: Before entering Waterton Lakes National Park, don’t miss this quick 10 minute driving loop where you can see a herd of bison up close. Thanks to the conservation projects, the bisons are placed in this gated area between the spring andContinue reading “Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta – Canada”

Galapagos, Ecuador – San Cristobal

Travel Dates: December 2022 Things to do in San Cristobal, Galapagos: San Cristobal 360 Tour (booked through Grupo Galapagos) is a snorkeling tour around the whole San Cristobal island. The day before the tour, we stopped by at Andry Tours (right next to Hostel Andry) to try on short wet suits, fins, and snorkel mask.Continue reading “Galapagos, Ecuador – San Cristobal”

Galapagos, Ecuador – Santa Cruz

Travel Dates: December 2022 Hotel: Hotel La Isla – The hotel is conveniently located near the main street in Puerto Ayora where stores, restaurants, and attractions are all within a short walking distance. The accommodation provides complimentary breakfast, and to-go boxes for early morning tours. The hotel also offers tea and coffee throughout the day,Continue reading “Galapagos, Ecuador – Santa Cruz”

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Travel Dates: December 2022 Hotel: Sheraton Guayaquil Hotel – We chose this hotel because it was a few minutes from the airport, and we were going to the Galapagos the next day. There is also a free shuttle service; you just need to contact the hotel in advance with your flight information and they willContinue reading “Guayaquil, Ecuador”

Saint Barthélemy (aka St. Barts)

Travel Dates: February 2023 Getting there: We took a day trip to St. Barts from St. Maarten (Philisburg town) via ferry, and booked our tickets in advance at http://www.stmartinbookings.com. We parked our car at Bobby’s Marina for $2/hour and then checked in at Great Bay Express (be sure to bring your passport). It’s a decentContinue reading “Saint Barthélemy (aka St. Barts)”

Sint Maarten & Saint Martin

Travel Dates: February 2023 Hotel: Sonesta Maho Beach Resort – We chose this resort because of its close proximity to the airport and ferry, reasonable pricing, and it’s an all-inclusive. Champaign and bottled water were offered at check in, along with refreshment towels and a digital wristband that doubles as a key to your roomContinue reading “Sint Maarten & Saint Martin”

Anguilla

Travel Dates: February 2023 Hotel: Zemi Beach House – At an average nightly rate of $1200+, we used a combination of points and credit card benefits to spend two free nights here, and it was worth it. Complementary amenities include breakfast buffet, on-site parking, welcome drink and refreshment towel, Voss still and sparkling water inContinue reading “Anguilla”