by Wendy
Train travel can be nostalgic, modern, adventurous, efficient, rustic, glamorous, educational – provoking many combinations of potentially contradictory impressions. I love planes (and hanging out in airports), and I love road trips. But trains are also cool. And the European high-speed train network is super-cool. Continue reading
by Wendy
A great vacation often results in a travel-high. You know, that glow from a beachy sun or hike in the fresh mountain air – or the inspiration from a different culture, geography, or language – or simply from the opportunity to relax and recharge. And yet…this feeling threatens to fade, often on the way home. If you’re not careful, your contentedness is quickly replaced by bewilderment as you prepare to face the first week back at work, the pile of mail, and the household chores.
When returning from a trip my Dad always cautions, “Don’t burn up on re-entry.” It’s good advice. Here are a few of my “unpacking” tips to help with the transition. Continue reading
by Wendy
Jack and I like to spotlight favorite day trips and drivable weekend getaways on the blog. We recently had the opportunity to revisit charming Charlottesville, Virginia, about three hours from DC. Continue reading
by Sunny
follow me on Twitter @Sunnylooksleaps
The old proverb may be, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” but I think it’s time to change it to, “Teach the old dog ALL of the new tricks!” Here are some of the new things that I will be trying for the first time this year!
by Wendy
Jack and I kicked off January 2017 with full week of travel, including a road trip to a state I’d never visited before: Vermont. We spent 3 days in the beautiful snowy town of Stowe.
Last year I wrote about my determination to participate in more outdoor activities, and it is sometimes surprising how much I am enjoying winter weather. This short destination report may help anyone considering a vacation in Stowe, but especially goes out to my fellow guys and gals who might dread the cold or are apprehensive about skiing. It’s possible to shift your approach and rekindle lost love for snow days. Continue reading
by Sunny
follow me on Twitter @sunnylooksleaps
Earlier this year when packing for a trip to Disneyland, MJ announced that she would no longer like to dress like a princess at the park. “I still want to wear Disney clothes,” she added, “I just don’t want to be a princess.” I knew that the princess dresses wouldn’t last forever, and while I loved seeing her dress up and enjoy being a princess in the park those ball gowns have their drawbacks in the suitcase and on the rides. We still attended a princess breakfast. She posed for pictures with them and asked for their autographs. She still loves them; still watches all their movies. They are Disney characters after all, and we are a family that loves Disney. But just like MJ changed her mind about being a princess, so does Disney also evolve and change to adapt to a new generation of fans while still making their seasoned veterans nostalgic. Continue reading
By Sunny
follow me on Twitter @sunnylooksleaps
To celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary, Jimmy and I spent a weekend in Portland, Maine.
Yes, it was the other Portland that was on our 2016 travel list.
And yes, last year we went to the unforgettable Rockhouse Hotel in Jamaica to celebrate our first decade together.
So how did we end up in Maine?
by Wendy
Philadelphia is one of Jack and my favorite American cities, especially for a weekend getaway. The first time we traveled together was to Philadelphia and we’ve been back many times since, including a fun day trip with my parents several years ago.
Some streets might remind you of New York City, others of Boston, or maybe even Chicago. Philadelphia is beautiful and gritty and worn in the way old cities are – you can sense what residents and tourists of centuries past were seeing as you walk the same streets. But like any great city, Philadelphia is unique. Read on to learn why I’m so fond of Philadelphia. Continue reading
by Wendy
I kept a list of books I read this year and met my goal of 12 – barely. Here are a few favorites – keep in mind these were not necessarily published in 2016, but ones I read (or reread in 2016). Last year’s list is here. When you cannot travel as much as you want, reading is a great substitute. Continue reading
by Wendy
I don’t have to travel for work often, but when I do I pack light. I’ve learned a few tips from a handful of business trips. They all center around 2 pieces. Continue reading