Category Archives: All – Vacation Inspiration

Disney inspired trip ideas

Disney movies have always taught us that dreams really do come true! Lucky for us, many of these movies are inspired by real places and experiences that you can have for yourself!!!  One might need to trade in their magic carpet for an airplane though! Thank you to Jamie Ditaranto at Smart Traveler for these […]

Jody goes to Couples Tower Isle, Jamaica

I have been to Jamaica several times, and have visited one of my personal favorite hotels, Couples Tower Isle in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. On this trip, we took some ‘local’ advice and ventured over to the Blue Hole.  We hiked and were able to jump off the cliffs, swim under in the caves and jump […]

Melissa Recommends: Destination Wedding Guest Gifts

When planning a destination wedding, one thing to think about is what to get the guests as a thank you gift for attending your wedding.  Your family and friends pay a lot of money to come celebrate with you, and there are so many fun things that you can give them to show your appreciation!!!! […]

Melissa Recommends: Documentation

There have been a lot of changes with each state for their various enhanced drivers license.These things are constantly changing, so here is the latest that I see. Enhanced Drivers License for the State of MN: Enhanced Driver’s License(This is just a scanned copy we picked up from the DMV in Nov 2015, but hope […]

Melissa Recommends: Luggage Shopping

How big can my carry on be? Do I measure the wheels when I am figuring it out? How much can my checked bag weigh? We get these questions and more about luggage/baggage. Here are some of my recommendations for you, when purchasing luggage and travel items Size Matters: Most airlines have similar rules for […]

Why purchase travel insurance?

I get asked this question a lot.  What do ‘I’ need travel insurance for? Or, when I ask if they would like to purchase insurance, the answer:  “I’m going no matter what.” Believe me, there is a long list of reasons as to why you would not or could not take this trip. My personal […]

Laurie Enjoys the Activities at the Melia Caribe Tropical

Ever wonder what you can do at an all-inclusive resort?  Most resorts offer snorkeling, kayaking, sailboats and many other water toys.  Climbing walls are becoming more popular also.  When I recently stayed at the Melia Caribe Tropical in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic I also noticed that zip lining and an obstacle course was an option. […]

Melissa visits Majestic Elegance & Colonial – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

I traveled to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic in May 2015. There are so many things that I love about this destination!  The beaches are absolutely amazing!When visiting the Majestic Resorts, I was very excited!!!  This was my first time visiting these two resorts, and I have to say I was quite impressed!!!  The layout of […]

Missy Skoog’s Culinary and Historic Tour of Istanbul, Turkey

Turkish cuisine is incredibly diverse and rich, influenced by its unique location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. This blend of cultures, along with centuries of migration, has shaped a gastronomic identity that’s as varied as it is delicious. From hearty regional dishes to innovative street food, Turkey offers a wealth of culinary experiences […]

Fall Travel May Be Most Optimal Time to Travel

Alaska Un-Cruise

Summer may be peak vacation time but just around the corner is a season that has tempting advantages for people who can swing it. For travelers who want to visit popular destinations without the massive crowds, and save some money, it’s time to start planning a fall getaway. Among the benefits of autumn travel: airfares […]

Short List – Refined Travel Experiences

From capturing the sounds of Alaskan wildlife using specialized microphones to being cosseted by your personal butler on an expedition cruise in Bali, luxury travel has reached a whole new level of sophistication. Cruise lines are taking their all-inclusive mantras on shore and suite living to another dimension, while small-group journeys lead you beyond the […]

Missy Skoog’s visit to Vienna, Austria

Vienna, the city of music and was home to Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert & Johann Strauss.  Vienna – a romantically imperial city: Vienna is a dream city for anyone with a romantic streak or an interest in history. Sightseeing opportunities are to be found in abundance. Wander along narrow, medieval alleyways or across imperial squares, view […]

Missy Skoog’s visit to Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg, Germany city hall

On my recent trip to Hamburg, Germany, I discovered a city rich in history, culture, and maritime charm. As the second-largest city in Germany and the eighth largest in the European Union, Hamburg offers a unique mix of old-world architecture and modern vibrancy. One of my first stops was Alster Lake, a serene oasis in […]

Missy Skoog’s visit to Berlin, Germany

Visiting Berlin, Germany, was like stepping into a dynamic city where history, culture, and modernity intersect in fascinating ways. From the moment we arrived, the city’s energy was palpable, with a mix of iconic landmarks, vibrant street art, and cutting-edge design. We started our journey at the Brandenburg Gate, where we stood in awe of […]

Missy Skoog’s trip to Frankfurt, Germany

Half Timbered houses in Frankfurt Germany

Thrusting, dynamic FRANKFURT is the beating heart of Germany’s financial sector and home to the European Central Bank. It has an impressive skyline bristling with eye-catching skyscrapers, earning it the nickname Mainhattan, while business travelers flock here for the trade shows, which include the world’s largest book fair. It’s an important transport hub too, with Germany’s busiest Autobahn […]