20 Tips to Feel at Home While Staying in a Hotel

 People sometimes say they don’t travel because they hate the feeling of being away from home.  Traveling is about the unknown, and that makes some people uncomfortable. Let’s be honest—hotel stays can feel a little… sterile. Even in the nicest places, there’s something about unfamiliar lighting, different pillows, and that pesky thermostat that makes it hard to fully relax. But with a few simple tweaks, you can turn any hotel room into a cozy, comforting space that actually feels like you. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or on a family trip, these tips will help you settle in and enjoy your stay like a pro. Here are 20 Tips to Feel at Home While Staying in a Hotel. 

STICK TO YOUR ROUTINE

  If you work out every morning then head to the fitness room.  If you have a bedtime ritual, don’t let being in a hotel stop you.  Bring your face wash, makeup removal, and moisturizer from home.

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15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation

map and camera

15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation

Planning for a vacation can be as exciting as the trip itself, but the day before departure is crucial to set yourself up for smooth sailing. There are some essential tasks you need to complete so you can jet off stress-free and make the most of your getaway. Here are 15 Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation:

 Double-Check Your Travel Documents

Ensure your passport, ID, and travel tickets are packed and up-to-date. Print physical copies even if you’ve gone digital—a backup never hurts. If you’re traveling internationally, confirm visa requirements and entry restrictions. I always email myself a copy of important documents just in case they get lost while we’re traveling.

Confirm Your Reservations

Revisit all your bookings, from flights and hotels to rental cars and excursions. Double-check dates, times, and addresses. This ensures everything is set and helps avoid any last-minute surprises when you arrive. I also write down departure locations for all tours I’m taking.

Charge Your Electronics and Pack Chargers

Fully charge your phone, tablet, laptop, and power bank. Organize your chargers, adapters, and accessories in a dedicated pouch. A dead device while traveling can disrupt your plans—stay powered up and ready.

latte and a cellphone

Prepare Your Home for Your Absence

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Surviving Airport Security with Kids

 

We’ve all seen those parents that, after going through airport security with kids, look like they’ve walked through a hurricane.  Their hair is disheveled, belt half off, arms full of clothes, and a crying kiddo following behind them.  Ok…so most of us have BEEN those people and it’s not fun at all.  All of this craziness can usually be avoided with a bit of planning. 

Here are 10 tips for surviving airport security with kids:

 HAVE THE TALK

Um…no…not THAT talk.  Talk to your kiddos about what to expect when going through security.  Better yet…show them.  Grab a carry-on bag, pretend your kitchen table is the security area, and walk them through exactly what happens.  Show them they may need to take off their shoes (depending on where you’re traveling) and that they’ll have to let go of Teddy for a few minutes as he takes a fun ride through a magic machine.  Get them involved with the simulation so they feel prepared.

  LIQUIDS

 It floors me that people are still bringing full size bottles through airport security.  An easy way to remember the rule is 3-1-1: 3.4 oz bottles or less for all liquids, gels, and aerosols; placed in a 1-quart clear plastic bag; per 1 person.  Security could care less how much your shampoo costs.  If it is over 3.4 oz they will take it and it will hold up the line. (I learned the hard way that DRY shampoo is actually a liquid…no matter how much I begged.)

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15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation

calculator, glasses, and change

15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation

Traveling is an adventure, but those expenses can add up fast. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. Here are 15 Tips on Saving Money While on Vacation:

Travel Off-Season

One of the simplest ways to save on vacation costs is to travel during the off-season. Peak travel times, like summer or holidays, come with inflated prices for flights, hotels, and attractions. Choose a less popular time of year to visit your destination and you’ll find lower prices, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed experience. Do some research and pick the shoulder season when the weather is still good, but costs are significantly lower.

woman tanning on a rock

Book Flights in Advance

Booking your flight early is one of the easiest ways to snag a better deal. Generally, the best time to book is between one to three months ahead for domestic trips and three to six months for international travel. Be flexible with your travel dates and use tools like flight comparison websites and apps to monitor prices and set alerts for price drops. Plus, flying mid-week rather than on weekends can often save you money.

Use Public Transportation

Instead of hailing cabs or using rideshare apps, take advantage of public transportation whenever possible. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a great way to see the city from a local’s perspective. One of my favorite memories of Portugal when I was younger was riding the bus and being immersed in the culture. It’s a great way to practice the language. Most cities offer day passes or multi-ride tickets that save you even more. If you’re traveling in Europe, look into using intercity trains and bus services which are often more cost-effective than flights.

bus in London

Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation

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Top 10 Things To Do in Santorini

Santorini, Greece

 

Many people think of Santorini as a honeymoon destination filled with starry-eyed newlyweds and wedding proposals around every corner.  However, Santorini is actually an amazing destination for a family vacation and is filled with fun activities to do with your kids.  There is no need for electronics to keep your kids entertained and never once did my kids say they were bored.  Being in Santorini is like walking into a postcard and this concept is not lost on kids. Here are my top 10 things to do in Santorini with kids:

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10 Tips for Planning the Perfect Staycation

 

If I had my choice, I would pack my suitcase and jump on a plane every week.  However, my bank account may not feel the same.  So what can we do while we’re not traveling?  A good alternative is a STAYCATION.  It’s the perfect solution because you can do as much or as little as you want…it’s all about your comfort level.  No need to worry about getting on a plane, staying at a hotel, or renting a car.  The key to a fantastic staycation is to deviate from your daily routine.  Here are 10 tips to planning a fun staycation:

Plan Daily Activities

Just like you would never go on vacation without plans (well…maybe you would but I would NEVER), it may be best to plan out your days before your staycation starts.  Make a list of things you could do.

OUTDOORS: ice skating, rollerblading, swimming, mini golf, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, biking, parks, zoos, fishing, a day at the beach.  

INDOORS: museums, planetariums, movies, ice cream parlors, bowling, paint pottery, cooking classes, 

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20 things You Must Do on Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise

20 things You Must Do on Carnival Sunrise

Carnival Sunrise is a fun cruise ship that offers a large range of activities and amenities for travelers. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or fun with family and friends, this ship has something for everyone. Here are 20 Things You Must Do on Carnival Sunrise.

Get a Cloud 9 Spa Suite

These suites give you priority spa reservations, unlimited use of Thermal Suites plus a free scrub kit, two complimentary fitness classes per guest, exclusive discounts on treatments during port days, and cozy use of bathrobes and slippers in your cabin.

Get a room with a balcony

Although it costed a bit more, I absolutely loved having a balcony in my cabin. I loved being able to sit outside in the morning and enjoy a cup of coffee while I read a book.  I also loved having a glass of wine while sitting out there and Facetime my family each evening.

relaxing on balcony

Sing at Piano Bar 88

We had so much fun singing along with Keith each night at the piano bar. We laughed until we had tears and you’ll feel like a superstar as you belt out familiar tunes.  Make sure you come with plenty of song suggestions. Hint: Want a specific song? Attach a few dollars to your song request and it will let you jump the line.  It’s a fun way to tip.

Piano Bar 88

Head to the Serenity deck

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15 Tips for Your First Cruise

15 Tips for Your First Cruise

I have been traveling since I was a kid, but last fall was the first time on a cruise. I couldn’t believe how different it was from other trips I’ve taken. I must admit that I was a little nervous before I went. What I learned was going on a cruise can be an exciting experience, especially if you have an open mind. Here are 15 tips for your first cruise.

Choose the right cruise

Do your research and choose a cruise that matches your interests and needs. Consider the itinerary, cruise line, and ship size. Is it going to be a family vacation, girls’ trip, romantic getaway? This could change the ship that works best.  Click HERE to see how to find the right cruise line.

Plan your budget

Plan your budget, including the cost of the cruise, airfare, transfers, and excursions. Make sure you plan on incidentals and tips. Decide what aspects of your trip you don’t mind cutting back on and what aspects you are willing to splurge on.

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50 New Year’s Travel Resolutions

vintage suitcases

New Year’s Travel Resolutions

Resolutions are often hard to keep, but travel resolutions help me brainstorm ideas for ways to create family memories. Push yourself to have new adventures, remember old memories, and daydream about future trips. You can also use these to create Travel Bucket lists. Take a peek at mine. Here are some ideas for 50 New Year’s Travel Resolutions.

Whatever you decide to do this year, I hope you have a wonderful year making lifelong memories! Cheers!

Take a solo trip, whether it’s for an overnight or a week.

Do a weekend girls trip/ guys weekend.

Try something that brings you out of your comfort zone.

Stay in a hotel close to home.

Recreate a cocktail from a great night out.

Go on a food tour/ pub crawl/ brew bus.

Head to a winery to sample new wine.

Visiting vineyards in Napa

Sample an exotic new food.

Go camping…or glamping!

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To Cruise…or Not To Cruise?

cruise

 

I love travel so much that there are not many places I wouldn’t go.  However, one form of travel has always made me nervous… a cruise.  People love cruises and the cheap prices you can get should make it a no-brainer.  Each time I consider it something holds me back.  I feel like I have so many unanswered questions about cruises that I’ve stayed away from them.  I decided to ask five friends to give me their honest opinions about cruises.  I thought I’d share some of their responses in case anyone has the same questions.  Enjoy! (And thanks girls for sharing!!)

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