2019: A Year of Unexpected Detours

Empire State Building at sunset

Empire State Building at sunset

It’s been a year since I last picked up my computer to write.  I apologize for the radio silence. I had all the intentions of writing, but each time it just didn’t feel right and the words were stuck somewhere in the back of my head and I’d sullenly promise myself that I would write again soon. Now a full year has passed – isn’t it scary how fast time flies? Continue reading

Switzerland in 4 Days: A Scenic Road Trip Guide

View of paraglider over Lake Brienz from Harderkulm

View of Lake Brienz from Harderkulm

Disclosure: A big thank you to Hertz,  Eurowings and Bürgenstock Resort Spa for sponsoring this post and making our Switzerland road trip very memorable. As always, all opinions are 100% my own and I would not recommend something that I don’t personally believe is awesome.

Switzerland has been at the top of my bucket list forever, so when Hertz and Eurowings contacted me about a partnership to promote their new route, I could not resist.  I called up my sister Kim and planned an impromptu scenic road trip around Switzerland.  I was excited to finally see iconic Swiss sights like alpine villages, wooden chalets, rolling green hills and glacial lakes with my sister.  Switzerland has natural beauty in abundance so you can’t really take a bad picture, and every scene looks like it came straight out of a postcard.

A road trip through the picturesque mountain passes and the jaw-dropping landscapes is the best way to experience the country. There are inspiring panoramic views at every turn and driving allowed us to see them all at our own pace. We spent 4 days driving ourselves around the Bernese Oberland region exploring the many villages, lakes and mountains in the area.  This comprehensive guide and road trip itinerary will outline the route, drive times, accommodations, and restaurant suggestions to help you plan your OWN trip.  The itinerary is broken out by day, with ideas on where to stop and what to see at each location.

Switzerland in 4 days a scenic road trip guide Continue reading

Trip Report: Iceland

Iceland Road Trip Map for 11 day itinerary

Recently, you can’t scroll through Instagram without seeing at least a picture of someone posing under the rainbow at Skogafoss, or sitting on the basalt columns at the black sand beach (I am guilty of both!). These pictures have fueled everyone’s wanderlust and boosted Iceland to the top of everyone’s bucket list – and for good reason. This island of Fire and Ice is known for its volcanoes, glaciers, and surreal landscapes that are best explored by car.  A road trip around the famous Ring road will allow you to see the whole country.  Regardless if you’re a seasoned traveler or a novice, you can’t help but feel in awe of this stunning country that is sparse and yet hauntingly beautiful.  It’s no wonder that Iceland welcomes over 2 million visitors to its shores each year, a number that has tripled in recent years.  Below is a breakdown of our 11 day itinerary and costs: Continue reading

25 Most Instagrammable Places in Iceland

People walking between the rift valley in Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park

It’s no secret that Iceland is at the top of everyone’s bucket list right now. Waterfalls, hot pools, out-of-this-world jaw dropping landscapes – what’s there not to love, right?  It’s no wonder that this land of Fire and Ice serves as the backdrop for so many Games of Throne scenes.  As an aspiring photographer, I couldn’t help feeling excited for all the Instagram-worthy spots around Iceland.  After taking over EIGHT THOUSAND photos (I know, I have a problem!) I can tell you that it’s almost impossible to take a bad picture – this country is just that photogenic.  Here is a list of the 25 most Instagrammable places in Iceland to get you even more excited, because it’s never too early to start planning. I’ve also included their GPS coordinates so you can find it easily.

To plan your Iceland trip, click here for the complete guide and 11-day itinerary

Woman standing on basalt columns at Reynisfjara black beach

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Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland

People standing in front of Seljalandsfoss

View of Seljalandsfoss from the front

The rugged beauty of Iceland is every photographer’s dream. The extraordinary landscapes that present themselves at every turn will keep you under its spell and make you fall head over heels in love with this country.  This land of Fire and Ice is made up of contrasts and contradictions.  It’s where icy glaciers, moss-covered lava fields, secluded black sand beaches, and explosive geysers come together to make up a country unlike any other.

Click here for the complete road trip itinerary around Iceland. Continue reading

7 Must Visit Hot Pools in Iceland and Where to Find Them

Icy blue water contrast against black lava field at Blue Lagoon

Icy blue water at Blue Lagoon

There are a million reasons to visit Iceland: the dramatic stark landscape, waterfalls, and of course hot pools and hot springs. Exploring the hot pools is a unique experience that combines the beautiful Icelandic scenery with its geothermal activity. Hot pools in Iceland are beloved by both locals and visitors alike.  This traditional pastime of bathing in thermal water is deeply ingrained in local Icelandic culture dating to Viking times.  The pools became a place where people went to socialize after a long day.  Aside from the social aspect, the pools are also said to have health benefits from the mineral rich water.

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Iceland in 11 Days: The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary and Guide

Black beach at Stokksnes with mountain in background

Stokksnes black beach

Iceland sits at the top of everyone’s bucket list because it’s such a unique place with rugged landscapes that look completely out of this world. A road trip around Iceland’s Ring Road is an adventure you’ll never forget.  A visit to the  Land of Ice and Fire is not complete without soaking in geothermal hot springs, admiring beautiful glaciers, trekking to a secret waterfall, and exploring lava fields.  The wild untamed landscape will make your jaw drop and leave an impression that will not soon fade.

We spent 11 days driving ourselves around the country, including Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and the famous Golden Circle. In that time, we managed to easily see all the major sites.  This comprehensive guide and road trip itinerary will help you plan your OWN trip to make the most of your time in Iceland and experience all the natural beauty this country has to offer. In addition to the trip route and maps, this guide will also give you drive times, accommodations, and restaurant suggestions.  The itinerary is broken out by day, with ideas on where to stop and what to see at each location.

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Trip Report: Bali

screenshot-www.travellerspoint.com-2018.04.11-22-02-23

Bali is one of those places that sit at the top of everyone’s bucket list – and for good reason. The Island of the Gods is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, welcoming over 10 million foreign tourists to its shores each year.  This tropical paradise has lush green rice fields, misty waterfalls, turquoise blue water, and ornate temples – something for everyone.  It’s not hard to see why everyone who comes to its shores falls hopelessly in love with this beautiful island.  Continue reading

7 Must Visit Places on Nusa Penida

Nusa Penida - Kelingking Beach

Fausto at the bottom of Kelingking Beach

Nusa Penida is part of the Nusa archipelago, located just 12km off of the Balinese mainland. In recent years, the island of Nusa Penida has become increasingly popular because of its stunning coastal cliffs, and pristine beaches.  Apparently, its laid-back vibe is reminiscent of the Bali from 10 years ago. It’s not surprising that more and more people flock here to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main island. For more information about how to get to Nusa Penida and where to stay, here is a quick guide for the Nusa Islands.  Following is a list of 7 must visit places on Nusa Penida: Continue reading

Quick Guide to Visiting the Nusa Islands

Nusa Penida

View of Mt Agung from Nusa Penida

The Nusa archipelago, located just 12km off of the Balinese mainland, is comprised of three islands: Lembongan, Cenigan and Penida. These islands are quickly becoming one of Bali’s popular travel destinations with their incredible blue water, untouched beaches, stunning coastal cliffs, and world-class snorkeling. The relaxed island vibe is worlds away from the blaring traffic and hectic pace of South Bali. This quick guide will help answer some of your questions about how to get to the Nusa Islands, and what to do once you get there. Continue reading