Paddling Through Paradise: A Multi-Day Kayak Adventure in the San Juan Islands with Outdoor Odysseys

Anytime I would mention that I had a multi-day kayaking trip through the San Juan Islands scheduled, people's eyes would light up. If I had a quarter every time someone said that that sounded like a dream, I'd be a rich girl! Here's the thing, the San Juan Islands is kind of a PNW hidden gem. Heck, it took me more than two decades of living here before I ever got up to the islands to experience them myself. Sometimes even the locals even forget about the magic of the islands.

You see, a kayaking adventure like this through the San Juan Islands isn't just a trip, it's a whole sensory immersion. From the moment your paddle dips into the San Juan Channel, the wind in your face, water lapping against the kayak hull, endless island vistas, and sightings of harbor seals and bald eagles, you know you've stepped into something extraordinary. Outdoor Odysseys elevates this experiences with expertly guided sea kayak tours giving you a taste of gourmet multi-course meals and overnight camping on islands like Stuart and Jones Island. It's honestly one of those things you have to experience for yourself! Here's why!

KAYAKING TRIP WITH OUTDOOR ODYSSEYS IN SAN JUAN ISLANDS, WA


Best Area to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina

If you're planning a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, you're probably dreaming of cobblestone streets, historic buildings, trees dripping with Spanish moss, and food that feels like a warm hug. Charleston is a city that knows how to charm, and after nearly thirty years since my last visit, I was ready to book a few day stay but wasn't quite sure where the best place to stay would be. I did a lot of research and after our two night stay, I'm here to say that I think I found the best location to base your Charleston adventures.

Whether you're visiting for a romantic getaway, a little solo adventure, or a family trip filled with history and Lowcountry cuisine, this area is the best place to stay to make the most of your time in this picture-perfect Southern city.

BEST AREA TO STAY IN CHARLESTON, SC


Travel Things I No Longer Do Now That I'm Older: Lessons From a Seasoned Traveler

There's something about getting older that brings a bit of beautiful clarity to how you travel. Maybe it's the years of travel mistakes, or heck, getting lucky while traveling and realizing you accidently did something right. I've made the mistake of overpacking and having to lug heavy overstuffed suitcases around and I've even regretted wearing the wrong shoes for a day full of sightseeing. I mean, trading being comfy for being cute is a real thing! But travel looks different now. I feel like I'm starting to know how to travel best for me, or maybe it's just traveling smarter.

I used to pride myself on squeezing in the most for the least: the cheapest flights, the tightest itineraries, the "just in case" outfits stuffed into checked luggage. But with age has come wisdom {and to be honest, a little more disposable income!}, and now I travel in ways that feel more sustainable, enjoyable, and aligned with how I want to experience the world.

Here are a few things I no longer do when I travel now that I'm older, and what I've chosen instead.

travel things i no longer do now that I am older


Creating a Meaningful Slideshow for a Funeral or Memorial Service

I hate that I even have any expertise in this. It was truly the most horrendous task. But if you are like me, and you were tasked with creating a memorial slideshow for a funeral or memorial service, I hope I can offer a little comfort and let this be your guide. Creating a memorial slideshow can be one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the life of a loved one. Photos have the power to tell stories that words often cannot. And at a time when words may be hard to come by, they offer a great way to express the fullness of someone's life. Even a life that might have been gone too soon. 

After my younger brother suddenly passed away, I was set with the difficult task of creating a memorial slideshow. It was a task I dreaded. You'd think that after a 15-year long career in content creation, often making reels and videos with photos and snapshots of life, that this would have been second nature. I thought that too. It was not. And after quick google searches on how to make a memorial slideshow, I came up empty.

Here's the good news. You don't need to be a tech expert or hire a professional to create a beautiful slideshow. I want to walk you through the steps on how you can design a heartfelt tribute with ease because this shouldn't be something that needs to consume you when you are grieving.

MEMORIAL SERVICE SLIDESHOW HOW TO


Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Trip to Vietnam

Vietnam is a vibrant, culturally rich country that's becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking adventure, history, amazing food, and natural beauty. Oh, and did I mention how affordable it is? From the bustling streets of Saigon to the incredible landscapes of Ha Long Bay and the history in Hue, Vietnam has something for everyone.

But before you hop on that plane and start planning your banh mi and pho tour, there are a few important things you need to know to make your first trip to Vietnam smooth, enjoyable and stress free!

Here's everything you need to know before traveling to Vietnam, including visa requirements, fast-track immigration tips, the best time to visit, and more!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TRIP TO VIETNAM


Powered by Blogger.