Aerial view of Secrets and Dreams Playa Esmeralda resort in Miches, Dominican Republic, showing the beachfront pools, white sand, and turquoise ocean.

Seas the Day: A Beachfront Escape to Secrets & Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa

by Melissa Teutsch on October 23, 2025

I’m always chasing new places that feel untouched by the usual crowds, and my latest find might just be the Caribbean’s best-kept secret.  Just two months into its grand opening, the all-inclusive Secrets & Dreams...

Best Weekend Getaways in British Columbia: Vancouver, Campbell River & Nanaimo

by Marika Flatt on October 21, 2025

When you think of British Columbia, it’s easy to picture snow-capped mountains, lush green rainforests, and a sparkling coastline that seems to stretch forever.  On a recent trip, we had the chance to explore three...

Galveston’s Buddy Guindon: The Fisherman Who Champions Sustainable Fishing in the Gulf

by Kayla Jones on October 20, 2025

Meet Buddy Guindon — a longtime resident of Galveston, beloved fisherman, trusted friend, and owner of Katie’s Seafood Market.  Carrying all those titles isn’t easy, but for Buddy, it’s just another day doing what he...

Whistler Wonders: An All-Seasons Escape in British Columbia, Canada

by Marika Flatt on October 14, 2025

Whistler: A Year-Round Playground Whistler may be famous for its winter mountain sports, but don’t overlook the other seasons. Summer brings world-class mountain biking, hiking, and a laid-back village vibe, while fall and spring—known as...

TX Away: Escape the Bustling City to Discover Austin’s Scenic Sweet Retreat

by Leean Vargas on August 23, 2025

Looking for a travel destination that offers relaxation and Hill Country views, but still has access to downtown Austin? Try Hotel Viata where you can enjoy a unique blend of laid-back luxury and the city’s...

Celebrate Vicksburg’s 200th Birthday and Experience True Southern Decadence

by Sara Aguinaga on August 16, 2025

Standing atop the bluffs overlooking the mighty Mississippi River, Vicksburg is a city where history, culture and Southern charm intertwine. Known for its pivotal role in the Civil War, soulful blues and exquisite cuisine, this...

Hood River: Where Adventure and Tranquility Collide in Oregon’s Gorge-ous Playground

by Marika Flatt on July 16, 2025

Welcome to Hood River, where outdoor adventure meets small-town charm in a picturesque corner of the Pacific Northwest. In Part One of our two-part series, we uncovered Newberg’s serene take on 2025’s hottest travel trends....

Newberg: The Oregon Escape That Nails Several of 2025’s Top Travel Trends

by Marika Flatt on July 3, 2025

In a recent New York Times article, they noted eight new travel trends.  After flying (nonstop via Alaska Air) from Austin to Portland, I discovered that the rural areas of Newberg and Hood River (the...

Taking the Scenic Route to Applegate Valley, Oregon

by Autumn Rhea Carpenter on June 17, 2025

For wine connoisseurs, family farm fans, paragliders, hikers, and wanderlust adventurers, the Applegate Valley, is a wonderland waiting to fulfill each type of traveler’s dreams.  Located in Southern Oregon, within the Rouge Valley and the...