Auckland is known for its stunning landscape, towering skyline with the Sky Tower, and an increasingly vibrant craft beer scene that competes with some of the best in the world. For someone like me, who’s accustomed to the Pacific Northwest (PNW) beer culture, dominated by Cascade and Yakima Valley hops, trying the brews in Auckland […]
Category Archives: Travel
15
Sep
Sep
Renting a Car in Auckland: The Essentials If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand and want to explore the beautiful North Island, renting a car in Auckland is one of the best ways to do it. With stunning scenery, winding coastal roads, and hidden gems scattered throughout the island, having a car gives you […]
Japan, Kyoto, Travel
24 to 48 Hours in Kyoto, Japan: How a Day Trip Became an Unforgettable Overnight Adventure
15
Sep
Sep
What began as a simple day trip from Osaka transformed into an impromptu overnight adventure in the heart of Kyoto. After immersing myself in a day filled with ancient temples, serene shrines, and savoring some of the best gyoza I’ve ever tasted, I realized one day wasn’t enough to capture the essence of this historic […]
Travel
Unlocking the Secret Benefits of Airline Layover Programs: How to Maximize Your Travel Experience
14
Sep
Sep
Have you ever wanted to squeeze in an extra destination on your trip without breaking the bank? Or maybe you just want to take a sneak peak at another country without fully committing? Well, let me let you in on a little secret: airline layover programs or forcing a layover can be your golden ticket […]
France, Paris
3-Day Paris Layover Adventure with Air France: A Whirlwind Tour of Parisian Food, French Rap, and Iconic Film Locations
30
Jun
Jun
Paris is my love, second home, and so much more. This iconic city has shaped my life in many ways, from its beautiful architecture to the smells of baguettes in the morning and rotisserie chickens from Ed l’Epicier (now closed) on the way to school, to the scent of cigarette smoke wafting through the air, […]
22
Jun
Jun
Welcome to my comprehensive and brutally honest travel guide for Auckland, New Zealand—with a lot of monologuing! This guide covers everything from pre-trip planning, navigating the journey, daily itineraries, and the best tips and tricks to make the most out of your trip. Think of this guide as a conversation with your most opinionated travel […]
Opinion, Travel
Remote Worker’s Ultimate Toiletry Bag: 21 Essentials You Won’t Find on Other Packing Lists (and Why You Should Care)
18
Jun
Jun
What essentials are in YOUR toiletry bag? Packing as a remote worker is different from packing as a regular traveler and presents unique challenges. (Wait until you read my bloody hotel razor story and contact lens drama below.) Just thinking about it, you need to balance being presentation-ready for Zoom calls while being prepared for […]
16
Jun
Jun
Estoril, Portugal, is a hidden gem just off the beaten path along the Portuguese Riviera, offering a unique blend of scenic beauty, luxurious experiences, and a touch of James Bond allure. Unlike the bustling streets of Lisbon, I found Estoril to be a much more quiet escape with its clean beaches, historic sites, and of […]
15
Jun
Jun
Bem-vindo a Lisboa! Maybe you’ve stumbled here because you’re planning a trip, or you just want to see how people like me have traveled to Portugal’s most populous city and one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. This city is one of the most important in Europe, leaving its mark on history during the […]
11
Jun
Jun
Hospes Infante Sagres Porto: A Blend of Old-World Charm and Modern Luxury When visiting Porto, choosing the right accommodation can significantly impact your experience. While Airbnbs offer a local feel, the negative impact on housing availability sometimes makes hotels a more responsible choice. When picking a hotel, you want to figure out where you want […]