Packing Pains and How to Solve Them
I love to travel. I hate to pack.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Packing for a trip can feel like a tug-of-war between wanting to pack light and feeling unprepared when you forget something.
Discovering the Joy of Your Own Backyard
Celebrating a family member's birthday doesn’t always mean grand getaways or elaborate parties. This year, we decided to embrace simplicity with a walking tour of downtown Salem. It turned out to be a refreshing reminder of the beauty and charm that can be found in everyday places. Nearly the entire family joined in at various points, making it a multigenerational adventure. We spent hours meandering through the downtown area, exploring shops, and uncovering the stories behind historic buildings. By the end of the day, I had several takeaways that I couldn’t wait to share.
The Gift of Adventure: A Family Tradition for Holiday Travel
When we travel over Christmas break, part of the trip becomes the gift we give to each other. It’s a tradition that not only lightens our packing list but also shifts the focus away from material things and onto experiences. In our family, the trip itself is often the highlight—but there’s another tradition we hold dear that makes holiday travel even more memorable.
Discovering Hidden Gems: The Power of Talking to Locals
This experience taught us a valuable travel lesson: interacting with locals isn’t just about being polite—it’s the key to uncovering the heart of a destination. Locals know their home better than any guidebook, and their stories can add a layer of richness to your trip that you simply can’t buy.
Why You Should Consult a Travel Professional for Your Multi-Gen Family Trip
Whether you're looking for a "turn-key" vacation where someone else handles all the details, or you prefer to take care of most of the planning yourself, we’ve found that working with a travel professional can be incredibly helpful—especially when traveling with a multi-generational family.
Exploring Local Flavor at Farmers Markets
When we travel, one of our favorite things to do is explore off-the-beaten-path spots. We love taking the back roads and finding hidden gems that aren’t on the typical tourist itinerary. It’s all about soaking in the local culture and, of course, tasting the flavors of the area.
One of the best ways to do this is by visiting a local farmers market. We’ve found that nearly every city has at least one, and it’s always a great way to dive into the heart of a community.
Make Room for Side Trips: Adding Adventure to Your Vacation
A side trip is a smaller adventure tucked within your larger vacation. It can last anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days and adds an extra layer of fun to your journey. The best part? Your “home base” stays the same, so you can venture out without the stress of packing up and moving on.
Skip the Big Bills
When planning a trip, one of the most common questions is how much cash to bring. Through experience, I've learned that less is more and smaller denominations are better. Here’s why traveling with small bills makes life easier.
Traveling with a Multi-Generational Family? Here's a Simple Tip to Save Your Sanity
Traveling with a multi-generational family? Luggage overload can ruin the trip. Discover how a simple "yes" to a porter saved our backs—and our sanity!
Eat Local: Making the Most of Your Vacation
When traveling, skip the chains and embrace local dining. Savor fresh, locally inspired flavors, connect with the community, and uncover hidden gems that make your trip unforgettable. From cozy cafés to vibrant eateries, these spots offer more than just meals—they create memories and showcase the true essence of your destination.