Author Archives: Penelope

Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit Utah’s National Parks

Eight reasons why November – February is a fantastic time to travel to Utah (with a suggested side trip to Arizona). Less PeopleUtah’s national parks are some of the most popular in the country. For example: half a million people visit Zion every month from June-September. In the winter, it’s closer to 150K people a […]

Best Day Hikes Near Boston

One of my favorite ways to escape the city and get some fresh air is by hiking.  I got hooked on this activity when I lived in San Francisco, though New England has it’s own charm and impressive trails as well! The hikes below are short drives (within 2.5 hours) of Boston. I recommend AllTrails […]

My Egyptian Adventure

Eight Days Exploring Cairo, Aswan and Luxor with Intrepid Travel in October 2019 If you’re on the edge of booking an Egyptian trip or a Cairo-based tour, allow me to push you one way or other! Below is my very thorough take and experience on the Discover Egypt & Jordan Intrepid tour. I wouldn’t have […]

Safety in Egypt

My Experience in Egypt as a Solo, Blonde Female Traveler Egypt has a low crime rate, a strong police presence and screenings/ checkpoints throughout the country, yet it gets a bad rep. Since 2011, tourism numbers have plummeted, though it seems to be slowly picking up again. After having traveled in Egypt, I didn’t ever […]

To Tour or Not to Tour (In Egypt)

But really there’s no question! Here are the pros and cons of booking a tour group when traveling in Egypt. I wouldn’t consider myself a “tour person.”  I enjoy the planning process, creating itineraries, and exploring on my own schedule. I don’t mind traveling solo and usually make friends at my accommodation or just out […]

Lessons Learned in Egypt

Fun facts and tips about ancient Egypt and modern day life when traveling in Cairo, Giza, Aswan and Luxor. Including THE most important 2019 update! Most products at the traditional bazaars and markets are fake. China mass produces the designs and that is why you’ll see the same items over and over. For authentic products, […]

Packing, Souvenirs and Budget Guide for Egypt

You’ve booked your flight (and hopefully tour!) Now it’s a matter of what to bring with you and how much you can expect to spend once you’re there! What to Pack: Conditioner – most hotels will provide shampoo but not conditioner Dry Shampoo – for early morning excursions! Hat/sunscreen/sunglasses – the heat is intense and […]

Meet Me in St. Louis 4 Day Itinerary

Total Days: 4 Days | Accommodations: Hotel Near The Loop and Wash U | Transportation: Car | Traveled: with a friend| Type of Trip: Day activities with good food | Highlights: Forest Park, St. Louis Botanical Garden, Kayaking DAY 1 Start your St. Louis trip at Forest Park. Explore the grounds created originally for the 1904 World’s Fair. This park is bigger than Central Park so […]

Lessons Learned in St. Louis

Surprising facts and tips learned while traveling in St. Louis, Missouri The Gateway Arch is the tallest arch in the world at 630ft tall. There’s a tram that carries visitors to the top of the arch in 4 minutes. But there’s more in St. Louis than the arch… The French influence is telling in many […]

What to Know About Kiawah Island

If you didn’t grow up in the area OR you are not a golfer, chances are you haven’t heard of Kiawah Island. I traveled there for a wedding and was blown away by how gorgeous it was. However, I had no idea it was such a private community. With only two hotels, one grocery store […]