Planning a Trip: Spring in Italy
Planning a family trip to Italy can feel overwhelming because there are so many incredible places to see. When we started planning this trip, we focused on creating a route that allowed us to experience some of the highlights of Northern Italy without constantly packing and unpacking. We knew we wanted a mix of culture, scenery, and incredible food, but we also didn’t want to feel like we were racing from one place to the next. Here’s our itinerary and the hot spots we’re going to as it’s my moms first time there!
Travel Guide: Amsterdam and Leiden
I’ve been lucky enough to spend a decent amount of time in the Netherlands, and honestly, it’s one of those places that just sticks with you. There’s something about the canals, the architecture, and the way everyday life seems so effortlessly charming. I’m half Dutch, both my maternal grandparents came from Holland after the war, and I still have a ton of extended family that lives over there.
Amsterdam gets a lot of the spotlight, and for good reason, but I also love getting out of the big city and exploring towns like Leiden, which feels like a step back in time with its canals, cobbled streets, and relaxed pace. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, here’s a mix of things I think are really worth doing, how to get around, what to pack, and a few seasonal ideas to help you plan your trip.
What to Do and What to Pack: London England
I’ve been to London five times now, and every trip feels like a new adventure. This city has layers—history, culture, food, and character around every corner. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, here’s a guide to making the most of London anytime of year: what to do, where to go, how to get around, and what to pack.
When people ask me the best time to visit Thailand, I always say: December to January, especially if you want a little bit of everything: crisp mornings in the north, sun-kissed beaches, and none of the worst of the monsoon. Over my four trips, I’ve come to see December and January as the sweet spot. In the north, it’s dry, cool (for Thai standards), and misty in places; on the islands, the seas are calm and visibility is excellent.