a panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge from the Lands End Trail on a clear day in San Francisco
California United States

3 Days in San Francisco: The Perfect Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Planning your first trip to San Francisco and not sure where to start? You’re not alone!  This iconic West Coast city packs a lot into its famously hilly 49 square miles, from Golden Gate views and charming neighborhoods to coastal trails and an incredible blend of food, culture, and history. Before our visit, I spent hours researching the best spots, …

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a rocky view from the side of the stunning Nevada Fall along the Mist Trail in Yosemite
California National Parks North America United States

8 Great Hikes in Yosemite: Your Ultimate Hiking Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite and wondering which trails are truly worth your time, you’re in the right place! From misty waterfall climbs to high-elevation dome trails, this guide covers some of the best hikes in Yosemite National Park—especially for day hikers exploring Yosemite Valley. Inside, you’ll find detailed overviews of classic trails like Vernal and Nevada Falls, …

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Sara admiring the panoramic view of El Capitan and Yosemite Valley from Taft Point in Yosemite
California National Parks North America United States

3-Day Yosemite Itinerary for First-Time Visitors Who Love to Hike

If you’re planning 3 days in Yosemite National Park, get ready for breathtaking views, bucket-list hikes, and iconic sights that truly live up to the hype. After spending 3 days in San Francisco, my boyfriend, Tim, and I made the 4-hour drive to Yosemite, where we spent 3 more days, before continuing on to Petaluma for our friends’ wedding weekend. …

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an epic panorama view from the Panorama Trail in Yosemite National Park
California National Parks North America United States

The Most Epic Hike in Yosemite: Mist, Panorama & Four Mile Combination Trail

If you’re looking for the most epic hike in Yosemite, look no further than this full-day combination route that connects three of Yosemite’s most iconic trails: the Mist Trail, Panorama Trail, and Four Mile Trail. My boyfriend, Tim, and I completed this hike in June, and let me tell you—it’s challenging, rewarding, and packed with once-in-a-lifetime, panoramic views, misty waterfalls, …

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North America South Carolina United States

The Ultimate Guide to a Fun-Filled Week on Hilton Head Island with Kids

Planning a family getaway? Look no further than Hilton Head Island! Situated 20 miles northeast of Savannah, Georgia and 95 miles southwest of Charleston, South Carolina, Hilton Head Island is part of the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. Often referred to simply as “Hilton Head”, this beautiful barrier island is known for its lovely beaches, world-class golf courses, and excellent …

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North America United States Washington

How to Spend Three Days in Seattle in February

You may not have considered a visit to the Pacific Northwest—specifically Seattle—in February, but there’s lots to do here for three (or more) days during the winter. My boyfriend, Tim, and I traveled to Seattle for our friends’ wedding, which gave us an opportunity to explore the city and some of the surrounding area during a time of year that …

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National Parks North America Texas United States

Two Days at Big Bend National Park in Texas

Big Bend National Park is located along the Mexico-United States (U.S.) border in southwest Texas. It’s named after a prominent bend in the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River, which defines the park’s boundary for 118 miles. The park encompasses the largest protected area of the Chihuahuan Desert, one of North America’s four major deserts, and is the only national …

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National Parks North America United States Utah

How to Visit the Utah Mighty Five National Parks

Planning a visit to the Utah national parks? The Utah Mighty Five – Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches and Canyonlands – are some of the most incredible national parks in the United States. Each offers various hiking, camping, backpacking, canyoneering and climbing opportunities, stunning drives, overlooks, and more. *P.S. this post contains some affiliate links. At no additional cost …

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Nevada North America United States

How to Visit the Stunning Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada

Located just one hour from Las Vegas in Nevada, the Valley of Fire State Park is an “Adventure in Color”, offering unparalleled panoramic vistas, scenic drives, hiking trails, petroglyphs, and more! It’s a great destination for any Southwest U.S. road trip or a day trip from Las Vegas. Valley of Fire State Park History Established in 1935, the Valley of …

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