7-Day Alaska Cruise On Holland America: Review, Room Tour & Itinerary

*A big thanks to Holland America for sponsoring my trip! As always, all opinions are my own. Curious what a 7-day Alaska cruise on Holland America is really like? Then you’re in the right place! I’m just back from cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage on Holland America Line’s ms Koningsdam, a Pinnacle-class ship known for its […]

A Guide To The Beautiful Indonesia Islands

* Originally published in 2021, updated in 2025 * Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia blessed with breathtaking natural beauty and cultural diversity. With over 17,000 islands, it’s a land of contrasts from volcanic peaks and lush rainforests to endless coastlines fringed with palm trees. Add to that a rich cultural heritage with more […]

Is Wellington Worth Visiting?

When you picture New Zealand, it’s often the dramatic fjords or adventure sports in Queenstown that spring to mind. But tucked at the bottom of the North Island lies Wellington, a capital that quietly wins people over with its creative spirit and compact charm. So, is Wellington worth visiting? The short answer is yes, though […]

Dog Sledding in Alaska: The Last Frontier’s Greatest Adventure

Too Long; Didn’t Read Experience dog sledding in Alaska any time of year. It’s fun, exciting, and links you directly to wild places and old ways.  Choose your experience: Summer (May-Sep): Ride wheeled carts through forests, visit musher camps, or take helicopter tours for unique glacier sledding ($389-$814+). Winter (Nov-Apr): Experience classic snow sledding, drive […]

A Tourist’s Guide to the Coldest Places In America

Too Long; Didn’t Read America packs in all kinds of cold-weather fun, from city festivals to wild, remote places.  Top spots to check out: Urban Ice: Fairbanks, AK (Northern Lights, dog sledding), International Falls, MN (Icebox Days); Duluth/Marquette (lake-effect snow, ice caves). Mountain Escapes: Crested Butte, CO/Taos, NM (skiing, unique landscapes); Mammoth Lakes, CA (volcanic […]

Beaches In Canada: Unexpected Diversity

Too Long; Didn’t Read Canada has the planet’s longest coastline. It stretches an amazing 240,000 km. Forget what you think you know about beaches here.  Expect surprising variety: Warm Atlantic waters: Swim at Parlee Beach (NB) or hear “singing sands” on PEI. Vast freshwater shores: Visit Wasaga Beach (ON), the world’s longest freshwater beach, or […]