Arizona is home to over 20 national parks, nearly 40 state parks, over 100 wineries, and the largest cactus in America. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the most spectacular states to visit too. Home to wide open canyons and huge natural stone monuments, Arizona has breathtaking scenery and something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the best outdoor destinations in Arizona: The Grand Canyon National Park is Arizona’s only UNESCO site. Offering breathtaking…
The area around La Fortuna, Costa Rica is a "must see" for any visitor to the country. Home to beautiful jungle, active volcanoes, waterfalls, and hundreds of sloths, it is literally a tropical paradise! Plus, it's named "fortune" but sits at the base of an active volcano- you have to love that optimism! Whether you want to go hiking, rafting, and kayaking, or just relax in a natural volcanic hot spring, you will definitely find…
Over the years, my husband and I began a quest to find the best, most authentic tacos in the area. Over time, it evolved to include Latin American food in general. We were always trying to find that one local place that could come close to the delicious foods we have had on our travels in South America. After several years, this is the list we came up with! Here are our own opinions of…
The hills are alive... with the sound of music! While you won’t encounter many locals raving about this classic Rodgers & Hammerstein musical, the vast majority of tourists to Salzburg will be! Growing up with a mom who is absolutely enamored by the musical retelling of the Von Trapp family story, I’ve always dreamed of seeing the places from that timeless and classic film. In the summer of 2012, I was fortunate enough to visit…
The Indonesian island of Bali is a timeless travel destination that offers enough activities, sightseeing and relaxation to last a lifetime. There are many unique excursions and sights you just won’t find anywhere else. This fascinating island in Indonesia will enchant you- and I think you'll see why. Check out a list of the top 10 activities to do in Bali, according to a local: [gallery type="circle" link="none" ids="2083,2094,2092"] Activity #1: Mount Batur To experience the spectacular beauty…
I’ve been to many places around the world, and in all sincerity, Cuzco is one of my favorites. Maybe it’s the Spanish teacher and history lover in me, but I don’t think that’s all there is to it. Cuzco is truly unique, and has such a compelling and unparalleled history. It combines the ancient with the new in a way I’ve never seen elsewhere. The indigenous cultures blend together in the city’s art and history,…
When most people think of Kentucky, often the first thing they'll envision is horse races, big hats, and maybe some barefoot children running around a coal mine in the hollers of the Appalachians. While these images (however stereotypical) may represent portions of the bluegrass state, there is so much more than just banjos and moonshine in the great Commonwealth of Kentucky! As a born and raised Kentucky girl with a love of exploration, here are…
Every year, thousands of American college students make their way down to Central America to study abroad in the beautiful country of Costa Rica. After my own great experience, I've listed my top reasons to study abroad in Costa Rica. While there are many options as to where to base yourself, I was specifically living and studying in Heredia. There are a HUGE variety of University programs in this city and in San Jose, click…
Colombia is a beautiful country filled with friendly people, stunning landscapes, and a rich culture. Unfortunately though, it is also a bit misunderstood. Its reputation from the violence in the 1990’s does not seem to have left it just yet. When I decided to go to Colombia, the main reactions I got from people initially included things like “OMG! Why?” “Is it even safe?” “You are going to get shot!” “What will you even do there?!”-…
Valencia is a gorgeous Mediterranean city on the east coast of Spain. It's not typically a common stop in the country however, with most travelers opting to visit nearby Barcelona instead. For anyone who makes the great decision to visit this city though- it certainly won't disappoint! Check my curated list for the best Valencia things to do! I'll admit- I'm a little bit obsessed. After studying abroad there, spending a year living there, (and…
