Tag Archives: explore

What to Pack + Wear When Traveling in Jordan

Essential items to pack and what to wear in Jordan I traveled to Jordan in October 2019, during the beginning of “winter.” It was in the 80s-90s during the day and 60s at night. My trip was organized through a tour with Intrepid. These are the items that were an absolute must! Pack these items: […]

My Jordan Adventure

Traveling to Amman, Wadi Rum, Petra, the Dead Sea, Madaba and Jerash with Intrepid Travel Jordan was bundled with my Egyptian trip so I flew directly from Cairo International Airport. It’s a proud country with some of the most unique scenery in the world. That being said, Jordan has economic problems, a huge population of […]

Don’t Even Think About Doing this in New York City

A little extra advice for what to avoid so that you’re a NYC pro in no time. If you’re heading to NYC, check out this recommended itinerary! Don’t spend more than an hour in Times Square.  You should definitely experience this sensory overload and fully embrace the madness, but then move on quickly! Don’t take […]

Best Places to Social Distance in New York City

Take advantage of the lack of crowds and tourists and head to these spots this summer: Hudson River ParkBetween the West Side Highway and Hudson River lies the Hudson River Park. This 4+ mile riverfront park includes bike lanes, piers, gardens and is chock full of beautiful landscapes and new areas to explore.  Though the pathway […]

Driving on the Right (but Left) Side of the Road in New Zealand

Tips for rental cars and road trips in NZ! New Zealand was my first experience renting a car where residents (and visitors -some of whom don’t know what they are doing!) drive on the left side of the road.  Here’s what I learned: It takes some getting used to. We booked a car on day […]

Packing List for a Summer New Zealand Trip

I packed a carry-on bag and backpack to New Zealand.  Below is what I brought and what I would leave at home if I had a time machine. 2 books because it was a long journey. 1 book would have been fine in retrospect.   The longer flights always have entertainment and it’s best to get some […]

The Best Souvenirs in New Zealand

If you’re visiting New Zealand, below are the most unique gifts or souvenirs to look for on the North and South Island. ROTORUA MUD Mud is perhaps the most basic of all the face masks, dating back to 1200 BC. This mud takes it up a notch. Although there is geothermal activity in several places […]

What to Eat in New Zealand

Food is not the reason to go to New Zealand. That being said, there are definitely some must try dishes when you are there: HAND PIES No forks allowed!  You’ll find these everywhere.  The most popular are mince pies and some variety of chicken.  I highly recommend the Steak and Cheese at Fergbaker or the […]

Epic Two Week New Zealand Itinerary

Total Days: 14 days not including 2+ travel days | Accommodations: Hotels/Hostels | Transportation: Rented a car | Traveled with: A girlfriend | Type of Trip: Focus on nature and scenery, with unique hiking or water-based activities | Highlights: Waiheke Island, Cathedral Cove, Tongariro Crossing, Queenstown scene, Milford Sound overnight cruise, Rippon Vineyards, Hooker Valley […]

New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Total Days: 9 days on the South Island | Accommodations: Hotels/Hostels in central downtown Queenstown, Te Anau, Wanaka, Mount Cook, Tekapo and Christchurch, and one night on a Milford Sound Cruise | Traveled with: A girlfriend | Type of Trip: Focus on mountains, hiking and unique scenery  | Highlights: Queenstown scene, Milford Sound, Rippon Vineyard, […]