Whether you enjoy theater, dance, opera, music or you’re just looking for a good laugh, summer is a great time to explore the world of culture while basking in the fresh air.   Here are some ideas to get you started:   The Ravinia Festival, 25 miles north of Chicago, presents more than 100 concerts from May 20 to Sept. 18. Nestled in a 36-acre park in … Continue reading Summer Cultural Festivals

If you have visiting a national park on your travel bucket list, this a good time to plan that dream vacation ahead of the summer rush. And if you’re a veteran park visitor, you know there’s always more to see. Here’s some of what’s coming up for 2022.  The National Park Service offers free entrance days during the year, including April 16, the first day … Continue reading Visiting National Parks in 2022

If modern life has left you running on empty and yearning for more authentic experiences, then the island of Ireland is the perfect antidote. Ireland is more than just a destination, it’s a feeling. Ireland doesn’t do seasons: year-round, it will refill your heart with the joyful love of life. And the great news is that it’s only a six-to seven-hour flight away. Things to do … Continue reading Fill Your Heart With Ireland

If you’re looking for vacation with sun, sand and lots to do away from the beach but you’re not ready to travel abroad, consider these two destinations on opposite coasts: Santa Monica, California, and the Palm Beaches region of Florida.  Set along a 3½-mile stretch of coastline just south of Malibu, Santa Monica has the laid-back vibe of a beach town along with celebrated hotels … Continue reading Beach Vacations Stateside

You’ve booked your vacation and now the time to leave has arrived. Here are some tips to make sure everything goes smoothly.  First, it’s a good idea to make a checklist of the things you need to do — and bring with you — in the days leading up to your trip. Don’t forget to include items like medications and travel documents. Then you can … Continue reading Pre-Vacation Checklist

With the COVID vaccine now available to younger children, many parents who’ve stayed close to home for the past couple of years are planning a family vacation in 2022.   Just as adults have missed traveling to new and exciting destinations, kids have missed those opportunities, too. And just like adults, they have their bucket list of places they’d like to visit.   One way to make this first family trip in … Continue reading Family Travel

When you need a vacation that really takes you away from the stresses of everyday life, a remote destination can be the perfect spot to unwind and relax.  Depending on your travel style, remote can mean a resort hidden in the wilderness, set along a rugged landscape, or located on a private island. Here are a few examples of properties that are part of Travel Leaders’ SELECT program, where you’ll be … Continue reading Remote Vacation Ideas

The holiday season is a popular time to get engaged, so if there’s a wedding in your future, here are some top honeymoon destinations according to a recent survey by wedding planning website The Knot.  Hawaii is number one on the list, and there’s a lot to choose from among the major islands. On Oahu, you’ll find the capital, Honolulu, iconic Waikiki Beach and historic sites like the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. Maui offers luxury resorts, the scenic … Continue reading Honeymoon Destinations

Whether it’s crossing off a bucket list destination, celebrating a milestone or simply getting a well-earned opportunity for relaxation, giving the gift of travel this holiday season is a great way to surprise someone special — or even reward yourself. When you give the gift of travel, you’re not only treating the recipient to a memorable experience, you’re helping them stay physically and mentally healthy, … Continue reading Give the Gift of Travel

Entry #6 – Final Prep and Packing – Lynn shares via video what she’s packing, trying to stay within the magical weight limit of 33 pounds. In addition she shares great travel tips that can be used on any trip. Check out the other Journey to Tanzania blog entries: Entry #1 – Six Months to Departure Entry #2 – Home Away From Home Entry #3 … Continue reading Journey to Tanzania