Travel Philosophy
Ideas that changed the way I plan, experience, and think about travel.
How Travel Changed the Way I Think.
Travel shouldn't be defined by your budget. It should be shaped by your priorities.
It isn't about spending the most. It's about getting the most from what you have.
The Best Part of Chincoteague Wasn't on the Schedule
The Pony Swim brought us to Chincoteague, but the people we met made the trip unforgettable. From an unexpected act of kindness on a front porch to conversations that inspired future adventures, this article explores why the best travel memories often aren't found on the itinerary.
All-Inclusive—But Not All-Confined
Paying for an all-inclusive package doesn’t mean you have to plan your vacation around getting every meal and drink you’ve already paid for. Our Cancun honeymoon taught us that sometimes sacrificing a little package value leads to a much better trip.
How to Spend Less When You Have to Travel in Peak Season
Sometimes peak season is the whole reason you're going. Learn how to keep the experience you want while finding smarter ways to save on flights, hotels, points, meals and everything around it.
Map First, Book Second: Plan the Experience Before the Reservations
A good airfare or hotel deal should support your vacation—not quietly dictate it. See how we built an unrushed circular route through Ireland by choosing our must-see places, setting limits on drive time and leaving room for local recommendations.
Traveling With an Aging Parent
Traveling with an older parent isn't about squeezing in one more attraction. It's about planning for the person they are today, removing the friction, and making room for the moments that matter. From Cape Cod to horses, ducks, ice cream and one last family cruise, this is what traveling with my parents taught me about slowing down and making the time count.
The Best Upgrade Happened Before I Booked the Flight.
Planning our bucket-list trip taught us that the biggest travel upgrade isn't always something you can buy.
The Best Upgrade Wasn't My Seat
Why the best travel experiences begin long before boarding.
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Getting Foreign Currency Overseas: Why I Skip the Pre-Order and Use an ATM
After more than 40 years of international travel, my approach to foreign currency has evolved from travelers’ checks and exchange counters to bank ATMs, rewards cards and mobile wallets. Here’s the simple strategy I now use to get cash, avoid unnecessary fees and keep one lost card from disrupting the trip.
Pack for the Trip—Not the Internet
Carry-on only is a useful option, not a measure of travel skill. Choose between carrying on and checking luggage based on your own priorities, budget and itinerary.
The Cheapest Time to Travel Isn’t Always the Best Time
The lowest price on the calendar can come with lousy weather, limited activities, or the wrong version of the trip entirely. Here’s how to find the sweet spot between price, weather, crowds and the experience you actually want.