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Travel Reviews, Rants, Advice & Other Dispatches from the Champagne Aisle

Welcome to my corner of the internet where travel isn’t always filtered, the opinions are very much my own, and yes—sometimes the Wi-Fi still doesn’t work, even at the $1,200-a-night resort.

This blog is part postcard, part journal, part gentle (and not-so-gentle) rant space.

And because I’m a former history teacher with opinions (and zero chill when it comes to disinformation), don’t be surprised if a post about Tuscan villas is followed by something on political hypocrisy, historical context, or why it’s time to start reading beyond the headlines.

This is where travel meets the rest of life—with humor, honesty, and the occasional eye-roll.

If you’re into luxury with a wink—and a few strong opinions—you’re in the right place.

Honest reviews of hotels, destinations, and experiences—because not everything that looks good on Instagram is worth your PTO

Practical travel advice that balances smart strategy with a love for the good life

Personal reflections on travel as a way of living, connecting, and sometimes just escaping

Occasional spicy takes on travel trends, tourist behavior, and why some people should not be allowed in business class

The Latest

  • When Refundable Flights Are Worth It

    Originally this was going to be in my email list, but since I do not directly offer flight booking services, I thought it made more…

  • Review: Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale

    The Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale is one of the older luxury hotels located along the beach. When it was built the options in the area…

  • Princess Cruise with Marius

    The purpose of my trip diaries is mostly to serve as a photo dump for me and a list of restaurants and activities we did…

  • Vacationing with Marius

    Family Vacation With Marius! Somehow Marius has been a member of our family for 7 months and we could not be any more lucky to…

  • 96 Hours in Barcelona: An Itinerary

    My best friend and client are going to Barcelona this summer and I thought I would put together my 4 perfect days in Barcelona. Please…

  • New Travel Services-Personalized Itineraries

    I am excited to announce a new travel service for my clients. After only 6 months in the travel industry, I have helped research and…

  • 2024 Travel Review

    I have noticed a trend over the last few years. Matt and I have been traveling less and less, but we are spending more and…

  • In 2016 I was Mad, Now I am Hungry to Learn

    I live in a bubble. All my friends on social media are (mostly) democrats or far left. I live in a very blue part of…

  • 2024 Election Reflection

    Okay now that I got some sleep and some time for reflection, I wanted to brain dump by thoughts about the 2024 election. My view…

  • Strategies and Tips for the Maldives

    The St. Regis Maldives is one of the most reviewed hotels in the world. I have nothing to add to the perfect hotel. Instead, I…

  • The Maldives and Dubai: Trip Diary Part 3

    Trip Diary Context: The purpose of my trip diaries are mostly to serve as a photo dump for me and a list of restaurants and activities…

  • Travel Advisor FAQ

    Travel Advisor Frequently Asked Questions Wow! I cannot get over the amount of support and excitement over the last 24 hours. Thank you so much…