A short video of all 40 locations we went to over the past year to celebrate me turning 40 this year! We work hard to get to travel and are so fortunate to be able to do so! https://youtu.be/TOAiJbosjgI?si=lb4xinSQbewNK2iG I joke about being surprised that I made it to 40. But in reality there have been moments and decisions that do make this feel lucky or fortunate at times. Not only to have made it - but to have made it to where I am - happy, successful, whole, and loved

If you only have two days to explore Zurich, you want to make every moment count. This city is packed with charm, history, and stunning views, but it’s also easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. I’ve been there, and I’m here to help you plan a fun, relaxed, and memorable trip. Let’s dive into how to make the most of your short stay in this Swiss gem.

Traveling as a couple is a whole different ball game compared to solo trips or group tours. It’s a blend of shared excitement, occasional squabbles, and those unforgettable moments that only two people can truly appreciate. Over the years, I’ve learned that turning these experiences into a travel notebook, poems, and now blog is not just about recounting where you went, but about capturing the magic of traveling together. So, if you’re itching to start your own travel blog wi

Glamping on Governors Island is one of those trips where overpacking can make the experience worse instead of better. You are walking from the ferry to your tent, exploring the island, and likely carrying your own bag the entire way. This is not the kind of trip where you want multiple bags, heavy luggage, or things packed "just in case." The good news is Collective Retreats provides a lot of the basics already, so packing for this stay is simple.

Governors Island is one of those places that somehow still feels like a hidden gem despite sitting right in the middle of New York Harbor. If you are planning to stay overnight with Collective Retreats, here are a few things worth knowing before you go.

There is something strange about Governors Island. Every time the ferry pulls away from Manhattan, it feels like crossing into another world. Not far away. Not dramatic. Just... different. The noise softens. The pace slows. The city begins to feel less like something surrounding you and more like something you are simply looking at from afar.

Packing for a trip can be a total headache, right? I mean, how do you decide what to bring without turning your suitcase into a chaotic mess or worse, paying extra baggage fees? Over the years, I’ve learned some neat tricks that make packing not just easier but actually kind of fun. Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, these travel packing tips will help you pack smart, stay organized, and travel light (yes, it’s possible!). So grab your

For our 40 for 40 location number 22, Rick and I decided to spend a night glamping on Governors Island with Collective Retreats, and somehow, despite being only minutes from Manhattan, it felt like we had fully left the city behind. That is one of the things I love most about Governors Island. It never really feels like New York. It feels quieter, slower, almost like a little forgotten town floating in the harbor.

New York City can feel overwhelming if you have never been here before. It is loud, fast, crowded, and full of options. But it is also incredibly navigable once you understand a few basics. These are not secret hacks or tourist shortcuts. These are the things we wish every visitor knew before arriving, especially if this is your first trip or you are visiting in the summer.