ADVICE
It doesn’t matter what kind of trip you’re taking. The right gear and advice can make the whole process much easier.
Savvy travelers can leverage miles, points, and VIP amenities at hotels (you can get these through me) to book a luxury vacation for less.
Plus, we’re seeing people go uninsured, so I’ve listed some advice for this, how to find hotel pool day passes, and listed favorite skincare products, jet lag tips, kids’ gear, food to keep an eye out for, and much more.
We were Expats and still travel a lot
It always takes the right gear and planning.
Travel Gear
Frequent travelers like me will get a lot of use out of their gear. There are innumerable lists of must-have travel gear out there, but we’ve included items on ours that have worked for us. We’re talking about beach games, travel games for kids, travel cribs, and much more.
Cultural Eats
Here’s where I share things like the Asian fruits that I miss from living in Hong Kong and hot pot tips. You can also learn about Japanese New Year food or even get the Jamaica Tourism Board’s recipe for jerk chicken.
Various Travel Tips
This is probably my favorite section within Travel because there are important topics like why we have MedJet Assist, jet lag tips, skincare products I like to use on long haul flights and so much more that will help you stay healthy, sane, and safe no matter where you’re headed in the world.
MORE TRAVEL TIPS →
Airlines & Airport Lounges
It’s no secret that we fly in premium class on (usually) oneworld member airlines thanks to a very tall husband, airline miles, and various travel memberships. I review the onboard experiences and lounges when I have a chance. There is a lot in this department that I need to catch up on.
MORE ON AIRLINES →
Flying with Kids
My tips for traveling with kids come from my experiences traveling around the world with my daughter at my side. Have all of our flights gone perfectly? Nope, but there definitely have been strategies and gear that helped us deal. You can and should take overseas flights with them, I’ve done it more times than I can count having lived in Hong Kong with a baby (with reflux, too, not fun) who needed to fly back to the U.S. to see grandparents.
Travel Inspired Home
Our house in La Jolla is busy, probably like yours. I’ve taken inspiration from things I’ve seen at hotels and restaurants like backyard games and what to do before you leave on a trip.
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See the best beach gear from toys to crazy cool gadgets that you didn't know you needed.
We round up the best beach accessories and beach gear from tote bags to games to make a day on the sand easier and much more fun.
Review: EgyptAir Business Class (737-800) from Athens to Cairo
We flew EgyptAir business class on multiple flights but most of this review centers on our excellent Athens to Cairo 737-800 experience.
Review: British Airways Club Europe Business Class
British Airways Club Europe regional business class
Is Buying Duty-Free Hermes at the Istanbul Airport Less Expensive?
Residents outside of the EU and Turkey can save on Hermes handbags and more by shopping duty-free in the Istanbul Airport (IST). Here’s the math.
20 Fun Car Games for Kids on Road Trips that Are Free or Cheap
Long road tripscheap or free fun car games
30 Best Travel Games for Kids Reviewed to Play in Cars, Planes & Hotels
These best travel games for kids are portable, magnetic, easy to play, cheap and fun for road trips, airplanes, & hotels. Loved by all ages.
Use ResortPass for Day Access to Popular Hotels With Pools Near You
ResortPassday
9 Ways to Earn American Airlines AAdvantage Miles Without Flying
Earning miles for upgrades and first class tickets is easy if you know what to do.
10 Awesome Gifts for Travelers: Ideas for Men, Women, Kids
From a travel Nespresso maker to skincare, find cool gifts here for the traveler in your life.
9 Must-Have Skincare Products for Long Flights
You may feel like you’ve been on a long flight but your skin won’t show it.
20 Suitcase Packing Hacks for the Next Time You Travel
Are you looking for ways to save space in your suitcase for the next time you travel? Then you need these 20 life-changing travel packing hacks.
9 Ways Travel with Kids Sharpens Essential Life Skills
We asked several experts how traveling with kids benefits them from expanding their minds to what kind of people they become later in life.
Long Haul Flights With Young Kids and Babies: Everything You Need to Know
Planning a long haul flight with your baby or toddler? Don’t stress. We begin with how to plan your flight.
American Airlines 777-300ER First Class from HKG-LAX
What to expect on American Airlines in First Class on a 777-300ER airplane from Hong Kong to Los Angeles, especially if you’re used to flying this route.
American Airlines 777-300ER Business Class from LAX-HKG
What it’s like to fly American Airlines business class on a 777-300ER from Los Angeles to Hong Kong in comparison to the competition.
Lounge Report: American Airlines Admirals Club Mexico City
It’s not fancy but this Mexico City airport lounge will do. They’ll even give you a ride to the gate (which is far).
15 Health Benefits of Cucumber Water Plus Recipes & Helpful Tips
Take a look at the health benefits of drinking cucumber water, and learn why should you make infused waters part of your daily wellness plan.
13 Carry-On Essentials I Pack for Every Trip
Pack these travel essentials in your carry-on bag for comfort, convenience and fun during your next vacation.
Emily Post Says We Can Wear White After Labor Day — You Can Pack It Year-Round
The old rule of thumb has been updated so no need to rotate white out after Labor Day.
20 Outdoor Games for the Most Fun Backyard Ever – Inspired by Hotels & Restaurants
Find out which best outdoor games to buy for the most fun backyard ever that will delight kids and be the envy of your neighbors.
What It’s Like to Fly in Singapore Airlines First Class Suites
Singapore Airlines first class suiteair travel
My Photography Gear for Food, Travel and Life
Photography geartravel
How to Hire a Vacation Photographer in San Diego
Memories make the best souvenirs so let a Flytographer capture your San Diego trip. This vacation photographer service is easy, fun and reasonably priced. Here’s how it works.
Review: The Centurion Lounge at DFW Airport
Travelers flying through Dallas need to know about The Centurion Lounge DFW, a fantastic benefit for certain American Express cardholders.
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Easy Spider Cracker Recipe for Kids + 7 Bonus Halloween Snack Ideas
Looking for a healthy Halloween snack for kids? Try easy spider crackers that use Ritz crackers, pretzel sticks, cream cheese or nut butter and dried fruit.
Inside the Aspire Lounge at San Diego International Airport
American Airlines Admirals Clubother lounge memberships
8 Reasons to Use Park ‘N Fly at the San Diego Airport (and Elsewhere)
See what it’s like to use Park ‘N Fly at the San Diego Airport and elsewhere. Earn free parking with their loyalty program and use it to park for a cruise.
JetSuiteX: The Luxuries of Private Air Travel at an Affordable Price
JetSuiteX makes the luxuries of private air travel available at affordable prices without the hassles of flying commercial. Here’s why it’s a game changer.
How to Prevent Air or Car Motion Sickness in Kids (and Adults)
Despite living a jet set lifestyle, my daughter started getting air sick when she was 4 years old. Here’s how I curb it.
Review: Aegean Airlines Regional Business Class
We flew Aegean Airlines regional business class three times on our recent trip. See why it may be worth the extra cost.
8 Tips for Planning the Best Summer Vacation Ever
The best summer vacation planning tipsflight deals
Why Global Entry Is Necessary Before Your Next Trip
Applying for Global Entry was so easy that I’m wondering why we didn’t do it earlier.
Guide to Flying with Kids in Business Class on Cathay Pacific
Learn the best tips for flying Cathay Pacific in business class with kids including where to sit, inflight dining, amenities and more.
15 Hotel Safety and Babyproofing Tips for Families with Young Kids
Learn best tips for keeping babies, toddlers and young kids safe in hotel rooms with advice for babyproofing, elevator safety, swimming pools and more.
Jet Lag: Beat it and Sleep Well on Your Next Trip
Flying overseas? Don’t let jet lag ruin your trip.
DIY Christmas Tree Preservative Recipes From the Pantry You Can Easily Make
Did you forget to buy Christmas tree preservative at the tree lot? Don’t worry, you likely have these ingredients at home. Keep your tree fresh while you are crazy busy or traveling during the holidays.
10 Ways to Spend a Four Seasons Gift Card
A Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts gift card can be used for accommodations, dining, offsite experiences, spa and much more. Here’s how I’d spend it.
Flying Alaska Airlines First Class from San Diego to Maui
See what it’s like to fly Alaska Airlines in first class from San Diego to Maui from seats to food to on board service.
What It’s Like to Hang in the Los Cabos Airport VIP Lounge
The Los Cabos Airport (SJD) VIP lounge is small but may be worth the entry fee. Here’s what they have on offer.
British Airways Announces a New Plane and First Class Cabin on San Diego to London Route
San Diego residentsBritish Airways
What It’s Like to Fly Dragonair Regionally from Hong Kong
A review of what it’s like to fly Dragonair regionally from Hong Kong from onboard meals to lounge access.
10 Tips for Taking a Vacation During the School Year
If you’re planning a family vacation during the school year, here are tips for minimizing absence and keeping teachers happy.
How a Luxury Hotel Concierge Can Be a Valuable Journeymaker
These Journeymakers can unlock a wealth of opportunities if you let them. Here are tips for how to best use a luxury hotel concierge.
What It’s Like to Fly British Airways Club World from San Diego to London Heathrow
See what it’s like to fly British Airways in Club World (business class) from San Diego to London Heathrow on a Boeing 777.
10 Reasons to Travel the World with Your Kids
Kidsoverseas family vacations
10 Tips for Booking Family-Friendly Luxury Hotels
These tips are important things I do and consider before booking a family-friendly luxury hotel anywhere in the world.
5 Reasons to Travel with a Scooter for Your Kids & Benefits of Using Them at Home
A travel scooter for kids cuts down walking time that could otherwise make them fussy. We love this one.
10 Bucket List Hotels and Resorts Around the World
Sometimes the destination lures you in. At other times, a bucket list hotel or resort may offer something so spectacular, it alone is worth the journey.
Capture Family Vacation Memories with Flytographer (Review)
Get out from behind the camera and have a Flytographer capture your family vacation memories. Here’s a review of our experience in Hong Kong.
Why We Give Our Daughter a #LifeWellTravelled
Our daughter’s life well travelled keeps her connected to her birthplace in Hong Kong and has taught her important life skills.
How to Mentally Prepare Kids for Long-Haul Flights
As soon as I have a long haul flight booked, my daughter and I repeatedly go over these five tips.
Should You Pay for Early Boarding on Southwest Airlines?
I paid the $40 for early boarding on Southwest Airlines at the McCarran airport in Las Vegas. Here’s why I did it and who I think it benefits.
7 Tips for Flying with a Cold
Fighting a cold while traveling is about alleviating symptoms and managing germs so that others don’t get sick.
7 Ways Membership Rewards® from American Express Make Family Travel Easier
See how family travel becomes easier by using Membership Rewards from American Express for airline and theme park tickets, hotels, dining, and more.
10 Reasons Why Cathay Pacific Is the World’s Best Airline
Cathay PacificHong Kong
The Tourist’s Guide To China’s High Speed Trains
See why taking a high speed train in China can be awesome, especially in business class.
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Why Is Everyone Talking About Multigenerational Travel? [VIDEO]
Here is why there is so much buzz surrounding multigenerational travel, trip ideas and tips for survival.
17 Ways to Prepare Your Home Before a Vacation: Security, Plants, & More To-Dos
Need to know what to do before leaving your home unoccupied? Here’s what we do.
Itinerary: 48 Hours in San Francisco with Kids
Here is a two-day, family-friendly itinerary based on our stay at Mandarin Oriental, San Francisco.
Flight Report: United Airlines From San Diego To Denver And Back
Planning to ski Colorado? Here’s how our direct flight from San Diego to Denver on United Airlines went.
Japan Airlines Business Class From San Diego to Tokyo
What to expect on board the Japan Airlines Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Executive Class. Our flight was between San Diego and Tokyo Narita.
Take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner Train from San Diego to Orange County
There’s free WiFi, more legroom and less traffic on the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner to Orange County. Easy.
Flying Alaska Airlines From San Diego to Hawaii
About our direct flight to Kauai on Alaska Airlines from San Diego along with what to expect at Lihue airport.
Lounge Report: American Airlines Admirals Club Toronto YYZ
This Admirals Club in the Toronto Pearson Airport is a little dated and hard-to-find, but comfortable with good WiFi.
The Louis Vuitton Neverfull Handbag GM Is My Favorite Carry-On Bag
I truly believe Louis Vuitton’s Neverfull handbag has changed my life for the better (seriously). It’s a gorgeous way to carry loads of junk.
Louis Vuitton’s Complimentary Hot Stamping Service Personalized Handbags & Accessories
Take your new or well-loved Louis Vuitton wallets into the San Diego stores for free hot-stamping.
The Best Luxury Mother-Daughter Spa Treament We’ve Ever Had
This family-friendly luxury hotel is famous for being one of the best spas on the West Coast with treatments the kids will love.
Gift for the Traveling Kid: Boogie Board LCD Writing Tablet
The Boogie Board is perfect for take-off and landing when other electronics have to be turned off. Hangman, anyone?
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The BEST way to buy attraction and theme park tickets is my discounted site.
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New Direct Flight On Alaska Airlines Puts San Diegans In Sonoma By Lunch
You can even bring a case a wine back as checked baggage for free if you fly Alaska Airlines to San Diego from Sonoma.
San Diego’s New Direct Flight To Tokyo
What’s on board the Japan Airlines Dreamliner and what to expect at Narita Airport.
Flying From San Diego To LAX: The Commuter Terminal And AA First Class
First class is now available on some American Airlines regional jet flights from SAN to LAX.
Jet Lag and Kids: How I Prevent It On Long-Haul Flights
Jet lag in kids is something parents can actively prevent. After years of long haul travel and professional advice, I’ve learned how to manage it.
Flying With Kids: My Pillow Pets Make Air Travel MUCH Easier
Keep the kids comfortable in-flight with a cute My Pillow Pet and blanket.
How to Make a Paper Fortune Teller (Thanks to a Hotel Kids’ Menu)
Learn how to make a fortune teller for kids in just minutes. It’s easy.
Flying With Young Kids: Quick Tips By Age Group
Lean basic tips for flying with babies, toddlers and preschoolers.
Travel Etiquette: Do You Tip, Take, Or ?
Wonder what other hotel guests do? Read on to find how how much you should tip and what you should take.
Document Travels (and Decorate Your House) with Vintage Luggage Labels
Decorate with memorabilia from the Golden Age of Travel.
Olivia The Pig’s Tour Of The Metropolitan Museum Of Art
Entice young kidsthe Pig book
Glue Gun the Rubber Ducky to Keep It Clean
The rubber ducky won’t squeak, but it won’t grow mold inside.
9 Must-Haves For Flying With Young Kids
Aside from wine in-flight, these 9 items will help parents pack and stay sane when flying with kids.
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The BEST way to buy attraction and theme park tickets is my discounted site.
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Is Pyrex Glass Really Oven-Safe? Or Is It Exploding? Should You Use it in Vacation Rentals?
Glass Pyrexother readers
How to Remove Shoe Sale Price Stickers
Because those stickers never peel off in one piece.
This Is Why You Don’t Put Kids’ Names on the Outside of Backpacks
Think about what happens if a stranger calls their names.
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The BEST way to buy attraction and theme park tickets is my discounted site.
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