Jewelry always makes the perfect gift. Jewelry is an extremely customizable gift. You can cater to personality, color preferences, style, almost everything. It is the details that make the biggest impression. It’s a meaningful way to tell your personal story.
Here are some amazing pieces.
Victoria Kay Black & White Diamond Airplane Charm/Pendant in Sterling Silver
The Victoria Kay airplane charm pendant features black and white diamonds set in black rhodium plated sterling silver. The pendant hangs on an 18″ silver ball chain.
Victoria Kay Black Diamond Accented Suitcase Charm/Pendant in Sterling Silver
The Victoria Kay suitcase charm pendant features black diamonds set in sterling silver. The pendant hangs on an 18″ silver ball chain.
The Victoria Kay camera charm pendant features stunning black and white diamonds set in sterling silver. The pendant hangs on an 18″ sterling silver ball chain.
Sterling Silver 18 inch Wanderlust Pendant Necklace with Passport Charm and Blue Bead
Comes carded and boxed, perfect for gift-giving! . Box chain measures 18″ long. . Blue Riverstone bead measures 4mm in diameter. Finished with a spring ring clasp. Perfect for those who love to travel.
Airplane Charm with Diamonds in Sterling Silver & 14K Gold
Jet away to exotic places with a fun, chic design. This stylish charm crafted in sterling silver and 14K gold and features a stylized airplane set with diamond accents.
Adventure Awaits, Clear CZ Charm, Two Piece Bundle, with Pandora Clasp Opener
Rembrandt Charms 14K Gold Globe 3D Charm
Rembrandt Charms 14K Gold Globe 3D Charm (12 x 12 mm). Rembrandt Charms are timeless collectibles that capture memories, events, special occasions or emotions. Each charm tells a story.
PANDORA Australian Heart Flag Charm 2pc Bundle, with Pandora Clasp Opener
Rembrandt Charms California Charm, 10K Yellow Gold
The California Charm, 10K Yellow Gold is hand-polished with a High Polish finish. The charm shape is 3D. Every Rembrandt charm comes with a heavy-duty jump ring that can be twisted open and easily attached by you.
Detailed Design Travel Theme Charm Silvertone Toggle Bracelet
Here is a nice detailed sivertone travel theme bracelet with several charms. Charms include a camera, eiffel tower, handbag, airplane, and binoculars. Bracelet measures 7.75″ long with two size options and toggle closure.
Texas Home Tripolo Compass Rose Charm Pewter Necklace by Chart
Made of pewter with pewter tone chain;Handcrafted in the USA and comes in 4 x 4 blue gift box;30 inch pewter toned chain;3 Charm necklace includes a charm with Texas map, a charm with Home engraved and a compass charm;Charms are removable
These are all stunning pieces and would make the perfect addition to a travelers collection.
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I have a great love of books and cozy spaces. I take great comfort in lounging on the couch near my bookshelves and indulging in some hard earned me time. When I’m not traveling of love perusing images and books for inspiration. Once my imagination gets going my creativity really begins to flow.
These books are truly beautiful to look at.
The Follow Me project was created in 2012 based on the concept of showing the beauty and uniqueness of different locations around the world. It is a story told through the eyes of two ordinary travelers who attempt to portray local lifestyles and narratives by means of photography.
The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country in the World
From Lonely Planet The world’s leading travel guide publisher. Take a journey through every country in the world.
Drives of a Lifetime: 500 of the World’s Most Spectacular Trips
Pack your suitcase, load up the car, and head for the open road! In the tradition of National Geographic Traveler magazine’s award-winning annual feature showcasing the world’s best auto trips, National Geographic presents Drives of a Lifetime: Where to Go, Why to Go, When to Go. This lavishly illustrated, hardcover travel planner and gift book gives you every bit of information you’ll need to navigate 400 amazing driving routes in some of the world’s most fascinating locales.
Gray Malin is the artist of the moment for the Hollywood and fashion elite. His awe-inspiring aerial photographs of beaches around the world are shot from doorless helicopters, creating playful and stunning celebrations of light, shape, and perspective, as well as summer bliss. Combining the spirit of travel, adventure, luxury, and artistry, Malin built his eponymous lifestyle brand from a deep passion for photography and interior design.
Wine Trails: 52 Perfect Weekends in Wine Country
From Lonely Planet, the world’s leading travel guide publisher, Wine Trails, the first book in Lonely Planet’s “Perfect Weekends” series, introduces the secret gems in well-known regions such as Napa and Sonoma, Tuscany, Burgundy and Rioja, and also explores off-the-beaten-path regions in Georgia, Greece and beyond.
Take a journey through the world’s most romantic city, traveling from color to magnificent color with this beguiling book. An orange café chair, bright blue bicycles against a fence, a weathered white door—Nichole Robertson’s sumptuous photographs of the distinctive details of Paris, all arranged by color, evoke a sense of serendipitous discovery and celebrate the city as never before. At once a work of art and a window into the heart of the city, Paris in Color will surprise and delight those who love art, design, color, and, of course, Paris!
New York is one of the most ever-changing and photogenic places in the world. Featuring full-color photographs of well-known landmarks from all five boroughs—from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to South Street Seaport, as well as secret treasures throughout the city—this visual celebration of New York in all of its seasonal splendor is a perfect take-home souvenir for a tourist or a treasured gift for a resident New Yorker.
See San Francisco: Through the Lens of SFGirlbyBay
From internationally popular design blogger SF Girl By Bay comes the ultimate love letter to San Francisco. This gorgeously photographed lifestyle guide gives readers an insider’s tour of the City by the Bay through Victoria Smith’s unique lens. Organized by neighborhood, each chapter features enchanting photos of hidden corners, local color, landmarks, and hot spots, revealing why so many people, Victoria included, fall head over heels for this amazing city. Brimming with original, dreamy photography and packaged as a gorgeous jacketed hardcover, this lovely book makes a perfect gift for photography fans, San Francisco dwellers, visitors to the city, or those who have left their hearts in San Francisco.
To travel in North America is to face a delicious quandary: over these vast spaces with so many riches, from glittering cities to eccentric small towns and heart-stoppingly beautiful mountains and plains, how to experience as much as possible in limited time? The New York Times has the answer, and has been offering up dream weekends with practical itineraries in its popular weekly “36 Hours” column for over a decade.
To travel through Italy is as close as one gets to being in paradise. For centuries, writers, artists, architects and merchants have been drawn here, inspired by the beauty of Venice, Florence, Naples and Rome. Countless books, paintings, poems and sculptures are evidence of its undying appeal, and over the past 60 years, the country has become one of the world’s top travel and holiday destinations. The loveliness of Italy—its architecture, landscapes, culture and food (some of the world’s finest!) — if not eternal, is certainly enduring, and the easy-going and relaxed Italian lifestyle, il dolce far niente, is still unrivaled.
You can purchase any of these wonderful books via the link or by clicking on the image.
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Shopping for the holidays can be extremely overwhelming. Here is a thoughtfully curated holiday gift guide for all of the travel lovers in your life.
Travel cases and accessory organizers are a must for trips. Packing organizers allow you to fit more into your bag and stay organized when traveling. You can fit more into your bag and your belongings are better protected. Minimize and organize with these travel packing aids.
Travel Gear Electronics Accessories Organizer
2 in 1 Trunk Organizer & Cooler Set
Makeup Artist Clear PVC Set Bag
Travel Black Leather Jewelry Box Lockable
Prints, posters and canvas Maps of their favorite places. Art just makes you feel good especially pieces with a strong connection to good memories. There is an aesthetic emotional response to art and it is the qualities in an object that evoke this emotion.
Massimo Vignelli New York Subway Map
Chicago Railroad Blueprint Map
Central London Neighborhoods Map
I drink coffee and tea everyday. I cannot have to many because they end up broken or missing. A cool cup, mug or glass is a great reminder of good times.
Washington DC Subway lines Map mug
Wine Glass Washington DC State Runner
Starbucks Chicago Dot Collection 2015 Ceramic Double Wall Traveler Tumbler
French Lilacs Ceramic Travel Mug
There are many benefits to playing boardgames such as; spending time with family and friends. Engaging in activities that do not involve staring at a computer screen or a smartphone. Exercise your brain by learning something new.Improve your memory by keeping track of what is happening in the game. Revive your creativity and problem solving skills. And mostly just having fun. Here are some cool fun games for the travel lovers in your life.
Map of the World Jigsaw Puzzle
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The Exorcist steps are famous for being featured in one of the scariest horror films of all time, The Exorcist. The book and film are loosely based on an actual events. The novel was inspired by a 1949 case of demonic possession and exorcism that American author William Blatty heard about while he was a student in the class of 1950 at Georgetown University. The Academy Award winning movie which came out in 1973 is about an actress filming in Georgetown who seeks the help of two priests to save her daughter when the teenage girl is possessed by a mysterious entity.
The Exorcist steps are 75 concrete stairs located in Georgetown at the corner of Prospect St NW and 36th St NW, leading down to M Street NW. The stairs were built in 1890 as a shortcut between M Street and Prospect Street.
I visited right before sunset and did find the place creepy. Nested between an ivy covered stone wall and a brick warehouse with dumpsters overflowing with stinky garbage.
Yes, they are very long and steep. The height of the steps are equivalent to a five story building. I gripped the railing all the way down pausing only to snap some pics.
The stairs appear in the scene where the priest sacrifices his life to save the girl. This is a definite stop to take photos for every horror movie fan. A visit an iconic spot in cinema history is a must. It’s one of the most famous steps in the world.
On Halloween of 2015, more than 40 years after the film was released, Mayor Muriel Bowser and D.C. Council member Jack Evans memorialized the steps with a plaque with Director William Friedkin and and writer William Peter Blatty on hand.
Depending on the time of your visit you might find the steps crowded with people exercising and lots of the students from Georgetown University.
Have you visited the Exorcist Steps in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington DC?
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My daily reading habits include news and social media but in addition I try to always have some fiction and non-fiction to read. I particularly love books that inspire me to imagine and create. Just like reading travel expands our minds, our horizons and limits. Reading fills us with knowledge, mental stimulation and of course entertainment. The wonderful thing about books is you can take them anywhere. You can stash a whole library on your phone.
Here a few books that will inspire you to travel:
Paulo Coelho’s masterpiece tells the mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined. Santiago’s journey teaches us about the essential wisdom of listening to our hearts, of recognizing opportunity and learning to read the omens strewn along life’s path, and, most importantly, to follow our dreams.
“It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.”
— Paulo Coelho
“Remember that wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure.”
— Paulo Coelho
“We are travelers on a cosmic journey,stardust,swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of infinity. Life is eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share.This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in eternity.”
— Paulo Coelho
On the Road chronicles Jack Kerouac’s years traveling the North American continent with his friend Neal Cassady, “a sideburned hero of the snowy West.” As “Sal Paradise” and “Dean Moriarty,” the two roam the country in a quest for self-knowledge and experience. Kerouac’s love of America, his compassion for humanity, and his sense of language as jazz combine to make On the Road an inspirational work of lasting importance.
Kerouac’s classic novel of freedom and longing defined what it meant to be “Beat” and has inspired every generation since its initial publication.
“There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.”
— Jack Kerouac
“I was surprised, as always, by how easy the act of leaving was, and how good it felt. The world was suddenly rich with possibility.”
― Jack Kerouac
My Brilliant Friend: Neapolitan Novels
The story begins in the 1950s, in a poor but vibrant neighborhood on the outskirts of Naples. Growing up on these tough streets the two girls learn to rely on each other ahead of anyone or anything else. As they grow, as their paths repeatedly diverge and converge, Elena and Lila remain best friends whose respective destinies are reflected and refracted in the other. They are likewise the embodiments of a nation undergoing momentous change. Through the lives of these two women, Ferrante tells the story of a neighborhood, a city, and a country as it is transformed in ways that, in turn, also transform the relationship between her protagonists, the unforgettable Elena and Lila.
“Everything in the world was in precarious balance, pure risk, and those who didn’t agree to take the risk wasted away in a corner, without getting to know life.” Elena Ferrante
“Nowhere is it written that you can’t do it.” Elena Ferrante
The son of a zookeeper, Pi Patel has an encyclopedic knowledge of animal behavior and a fervent love of stories. When Pi is sixteen, his family emigrates from India to North America aboard a Japanese cargo ship, along with their zoo animals bound for new homes.
The ship sinks. Pi finds himself alone in a lifeboat, his only companions a hyena, an orangutan, a wounded zebra, and Richard Parker, a 450-pound Bengal tiger. Soon the tiger has dispatched all but Pi, whose fear, knowledge, and cunning allow him to coexist with Richard Parker for 227 days while lost at sea. When they finally reach the coast of Mexico, Richard Parker flees to the jungle, never to be seen again. The Japanese authorities who interrogate Pi refuse to believe his story and press him to tell them “the truth.” After hours of coercion, Pi tells a second story, a story much less fantastical, much more conventional–but is it more true?
“It is true that those we meet can change us, sometimes so profoundly that we are not the same afterwards, even unto our names.” Yann Martel
1,000 Places to See Before You Die
It’s the journey of a lifetime, every month—and the perfect gift for the traveler and anyone who dreams of traveling. Written by Patricia Schultz, author of the #1 New York Times bestselling book 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, and illustrated with full-color photographs, each month is a to-die-for itinerary. Discover exotic and culturally rich Uzbekistan. Cruise America’s “favorite drive” in autumn, the winding Blue Ridge Parkway. And experience the light that captivated so many Impressionist painters in Normandy. Each month features a large photograph, smaller images throughout the grid, a map, must-see attractions, and local history.
“If you’re waiting for a special occasion to make your next trip happen, then consider this: The day you get off the couch and head for the airport, that’s the special occasion.”
— Patricia Schultz
“As Herman Melville wrote in Moby Dick, I had “an everlasting itch for things remote.”
— Patricia Schultz
What are some of your favorite books that inspire you to travel?
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This summer has been a blast. I love when my family comes down to visit and I get to show them some of the places I love and share what makes Florida so special. Some of our stops you will recognize as popular and others are gems that are off the beaten path. The Chevy Suburban comfortably accommodated seven passengers as we explored some of the fun unique places Florida has to offer. With our extended family in tow, cooler with water, picnic and beach supplies in the trunk, we caught up while we hit the road. We didn’t have to split up. We were able to enjoy each others company the entire trip. The Suburban is perfect for large families.
Florida is a state where it is warm year round. If you are not used to the heat, summers can be uncomfortable. One of my favorite features of the Suburban are cooled seats. Not only are the driver and front passenger seats cooled but so are the second row seats. Another feature that saved us from the blaring heat is the fact each person can adjust the air conditioning to their liking. I know some of my family members disagree on how cold it should be. With the ability for each person to adjust the a/c to their liking made everyone happy and we were able to cool off much quicker than other vehicles.
South Florida
Florida makes is fun and easy to plan road trips. There are wonderful highways that will take you all across the state. When you are in Miami be prepared for traffic. Especially on the weekends. The first place I wanted to share with my family was the art district of Wynwood Walls in midtown Miami. This entire place is a canvas for artists. Everywhere you look you will find images and secret messages. It is a very special place with a vibe you will not find anywhere else in the world. I come away inspired every time I visit. My family was blown away.
The Suburban drives so smoothly and the rearview camera with image outline made parking a breeze. If you get nervous driving in traffic the Suburban has many safety features to put you at ease; the forward collision alert, the lane keep assist, lance changer alert with side blind zone alert, rear cross traffic alert, rear vision camera and tire pressure monitor system. You and your family can enjoy yourselves without worry.
Beaches
Florida has no scarcity of beautiful beaches. Take your pick from North to South and East or West coast. There are beaches to be on the look out for celebrities like South Beach, or spend some quiet family time on the Hollywood Broadwalk or enjoy more quiet beaches where the locals hang out. We love to picnic at the beach on weekends.
Florida Springs
An off the beaten road trip you might not know about would be visiting a Florida Spring. There are many beautiful, clean, clear water Springs throughout central and north Florida. I chose to visit Wekiwa Springs in central Florida. Only a 40 minute drive from Orlando it was the best way to cool off after visiting packed theme parks. For only $6.00 per car we spent the entire day canoeing, picnicking and swimming.
Everglades
Every time friends and family visit I make sure to take them to experience an Everglades sunset. No where else in the world will you get a spectacular view like this. As the sun begins to go down you’ll probably see a gator or five. Hundreds of thousands of birds flock to the flora for a safe nights rest. The adventurous will get on boat rides to explore the Everglades, the river of grass. The night I drove my family to see an Everglades sunset we bumped into a group of people going bow fishing. That’s were you use a bow and arrow to catch your fish. I’m always come away learning something new on every road trip.
So here are my must do and see when visiting Florida:
Experience art like you’ve never experienced art before at Wynwood Walls in midtown Miami.
Splash and play on one of many Florida’s clean soft sand beaches.
Cool off at one of Florida’s most beautiful natural wonders, the springs.
And finally try not to leave without viewing an Everglades sunset. Beware and stay away from the gators.
Have you experienced a Florida sunset?
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Some of the best natural attractions Florida has to offer are its cool refreshing springs. Springs are the point where groundwater flows out of the ground where the aquifer surface meets the surface of the earth and Florida has one of the largest concentrations of springs on earth. There are many beautiful clear freshwater springs throughout central and north Florida. I was blown away at my first visit to Rainbow Springs Florida State Park. So much so I am determined to visit more of them.
The springs are great for cooling down, swimming, picnicking, paddling, canoeing, camping, hiking and nature watching. The best time to visit is summertime because these bodies of water remain relatively cold, about 72 degrees year round. It is the perfect way to keep cool on a hot summer day.
Florida Springs are a great alternative to pricey theme parks.
Wekiwa Springs is only a 40-minute drive from Orlando theme parks located in the town of Apopka. We visited during the week but if you are heading out there on a summer weekend call in advance. They do close their gates when they reach capacity. Admission is only $6.00 per vehicle. A big difference from pricey theme parks and we had just as much fun.
Wekiwa Springs has a very large walled off swimming area unlike other springs. You are allowed to canoe, kayak, paddleboard other areas just be respectful of nature. There are alligators everywhere. In addition there are miles and miles of hiking trails. Be aware that Florida has a large black bear population. If you plan on hiking go prepared. The only hiking I did that day was on the boardwalks scattered around the swimming area. I saw raccoons and a variety of birds including a few gorgeous swallowtail kite.
If you visit during summer weekends arrive early. We spent an entire day swimming, canoeing and exploring the trails. They have a gift shop and small concession stand which serves snacks, burgers and hot dogs. Or you can bring your own picnic.
Have you been to Wekiwa Springs?
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When I visit a place I really enjoy exploring and uncovering hidden gems. Since I’m a die hard road tripper this includes surrounding areas of wherever I may be. While I visited Chicago last summer I searched for things to do within driving distance of the windy city. Starved Rock State park turned out to be the perfect place to spend the day since I love exercising outdoors and being surrounded by nature.
Starved Rock State Park is only a one and half hour drive from the city of Chicago along the south bank of the Illinois River. It is a pleasant surprise since most of Illinois consists of flat prairies. It was formed thousands of years ago by melting glaciers. The water rushed and eroded everything except the sandstone. Today you can see steep rock walls, cool dark valleys, bluffs, gorges and canyons.
This beautiful park has many things you can do: hiking, camping, fishing, canoeing, etc. There are cabins and of course the Lodge for extended visits.
Planning your Visit
Before you go I highly recommend checking the website or calling the park for conditions. I visited on a very hot afternoon toward the end of July. The park had experienced lots of flooding, which meant parts were inaccessible which limited the things to do. Flooding is common in the area and some people even recommend hiking in rain boots. So call ahead and find out what to bring.
Upon arrival we parked near the lodge where there were plenty of empty spaces. Head inside and grab yourself a map. They have a visitor’s center, gift shop and dining if you need supplies. In addition there are many other lots to park at depending on how long or far you want to go and what you want to see.
Since we were only there for a few hours we chose the trail leading us to the bluff and gorgeous views of the Illinois River. It was very hot that day. You can experience all four season on any given day in Illinois so I recommend layers you can take off and put on as needed. Each person in the group had their own water and snack supply. These are not easy trails. If you do not exercise regularly you may find the trails challenging. The boardwalk has many many many stairs, which take you up and down for miles and miles. There are also dirt paths you can take all throughout the park. Some were quite muddy and we had to make many detours. Our trail led us through a lush green forest of oak and hickory trees, through the canyon and to a grand view of the Illinois River.
Details
Hours: Visitors Center: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00pm
Prices: Free to Public. Prices for tours, activities and boat rentals vary.
Activities:
This is one place I would love to come back and visit to explore the other trails. During the springtime there are waterfalls and during winter ice falls and that is something I’d love to see.
Have you been?
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Things to do in Boston
Boston is Massachusetts’ capital and largest city. It is one of the oldest cities in the US and it’s rich political history has greatly impacted the way the US government runs today. Whatever type of travel experience you are looking for there is something on this list of things to do in Boston for you. The city is vibrant with all kinds of activities whether you’re a sports fan, enjoy the outdoors, are seeking culture or are a huge history buff.
What to Do
Take a Freedom Trail Tour. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long path through downtown Boston that passes by 16 locations significant to the history of the United States. Starting at the visitor’s center of the beautiful Boston Common the tour led by costumed guides. It’s a great way to learn about and see some of Boston’s most important sites.
Insider tip
Wear comfortable shoes. It’s a very long walk.
One of the more interesting stops on the Freedom Trail was the Granary Burying Ground. Founded in 1660 it is the city of Boston’s third-oldest cemetery. Located on Tremont Street, it is the final resting place for many notable Revolutionary War era patriots, including three signers of the Declaration of Independence; Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Robert Treat Paine. Also, prominently displayed in the Burying Ground is an obelisk erected in 1827 to the parents and relatives of Benjamin Franklin who was born in Boston and is buried in Philadelphia.
Explore South Market and Quincy Square near Faneuil Hall. Quincy Market is a historic market complex near Faneuil Hall in downtown Boston, Massachusetts. It was constructed in 1824 and named in honor of Mayor Josiah Quincy, who organized its construction without any tax or debt. There are many places to eat and shops for purchasing souvenirs.
Insider tip
This is a touristy area always buzzing with people. Enjoy the street performers which appear at any time of day.
Take the subway over to the Skywalk Observatory. The Skywalk Observatory is located on the 50th floor of the Prudential Tower. It is the second tallest skyscraper in the City of Boston. Enjoy amazing views of the Boston’s famous landmarks like the Charles River, Fenway Park, Boston Harbor and much more.
Boston Duck Tours is a very fun way to explore the city of Boston. You a great overview of the city, see many unique neighborhoods and splash into the Charles River for a breathtaking view of the Boston and Cambridge skylines. It was a blast.
Visit the New England Aquarium and check out the four-story Caribbean coral reef teeming with more than 1,000 animals.
Ride the unusual Greenway carousel.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of places to stay in the city however, during my visit there were several conventions going on so most places were booked. I ended up staying at the Hilton Garden Inn in Waltham. Hilton is a reliable established brand with comfortable, clean rooms. It is located in a quiet area, which is just a short drive into Boston.
What to Eat
Boston is the place to eat great seafood. It is home to some of the world’s most amazing lobster rolls, clam chowder and fish especially cod dishes. Go try some.
Have you been to Boston?
What were some of your favorite things to do?
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How to Create a Travel Inspiration Journal
An inspiration journal is central place where you can jot down ideas and other things that will inspire you to achieve your goals. It can help you get started, unstuck, or maybe lead you into a completely different direction but mainly motivates you into action.
You can create an entire journal of strictly inspiration or like me have a combination of places I’ve enjoyed and would love to revisit along with bucket lists of things I’d like to do and places I’d like to see.
When we travel the experience is usually over far too quickly. By journaling we get to explore how we felt about the places we went to and the activities we participated in. We get to know ourselves better by clarifying our thoughts.
Journals also serve as records. We can record our progress or expound on the places we’ve been. Sometimes it’s helpful to look back so we can realize all that we’ve accomplished.
These books will get your creativity started.
An Illustrated Journey: Inspiration From the Private Art Journals of Traveling Artists, Illustrators and Designers
The Art of Urban Sketching: Drawing On Location Around The World
A World of Artist Journal Pages: 1000+ Artworks – 230 Artists – 30 Countries
Writing Away: A Creative Guide to Awakening the Journal-Writing Traveler (Travelers’ Tales)
Two major trends have recently swept the travel world: the first, an overwhelming desire (thanks to Elizabeth Gilbert’s bestseller, Eat, Pray, Love) to write one’s own memoir; the second, an explosion of social media, blogs, twitter and texts, which allow travelers to document and share their experiences instantaneously. Thus, the act of chronicling one’s journey has never been more popular, nor the urge stronger.
Writing Away: A Creative Guide to Awakening the Journal-Writing Traveler, will inspire budding memoirists and jetsetting scribes alike. But Writing Away doesn’t stop there—author Lavinia Spalding spins the romantic tradition of keeping a travelogue into a modern, witty adventure in awareness, introducing the traditional handwritten journal as a profoundly valuable tool for self-discovery, artistic expression, and spiritual growth.
Writing Away teaches you to embrace mishaps in order to enrich your travel experience, recognize in advance what you want to remember, tap into all your senses, and connect with the physical world in an increasingly technological age. It helps you overcome writer’s block and procrastination; tackle the discipline, routine, structure, and momentum that are crucial to the creative process; and it demonstrates how traveling—while keeping a journal along the way—is the world’s most valuable writing exercise.
Globejotting: How to Write Extraordinary Travel Journals (and still have time to enjoy your trip!)
Most travel diaries fizzle. By day six of a big trip, people are struggling to recall what happened on days three, four, and five. They return home with mostly empty journals, or bland writing that fails to capture the full spirit of their journeys. Award-winning travel humorist Dave Fox comes to the rescue in this book that’s both informative and irreverently funny. You’ll learn to: Bring destinations to life with bold details.Splash those details quickly onto your pages so journaling doesn’t gobble up your precious vacation time.Elude your Inner Censor and write with confidence.Weave together your outer and inner journeys, using unfamiliar places as a backdrop for self-discovery.
Dave shares his favorite journaling techniques, shows how to find time to write in the middle of an exciting trip, and infuses it all with a generous dose of his off-the-wall humor. Whether your journeys are weekend road trips or excursions around the world, this book will help transform you into a travel journaling superhero!
Once you’ve found some inspiration to get you started choose the type of sketchbook, binder or journal you would like to use.
Carolina Pad Studio C Zip-it Notebook with Zipper Pouch Cover
Pocket Leather Journal with Owl Handmade Blank Craft Paper Brown with Gift Box
or binder
Kate’s Paperie Binder with Set of 3 Journals, The Art of Travel
Genuine Leather Journal Notebook Refillable with Cool Lock 6-ring Loose Leaf Binder
I’m inspired by colors, textures, mixed media, positive quotes, photos, places, travel, sewing, fashion,jewelry, music, art, painting, movies, stories . . .
Ideas to get you going.
Top ten list
Bucket list
Favorite travel quotes
Favorite places
Start with a map
Start with a ticket stub
Start with a postcard
Cut out magazine photos
Start with a photo you took
Favorite thing you ate
Describe the smells
Describe the texture
Describe the taste
Most exciting
Least exciting
I’ll never do that again
Do you have a travel inspiration journal?
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The Willis Tower was originally built and still commonly referred to as the Sears Tower. This 108-story skyscraper is one of the most famous landmarks in Chicago, Illinois. It took 2,000 workers three years to build and has been open to the public since 1974. It’s the second tallest in North America and the Western Hemisphere and the eight tallest building in the world.
If you’re visiting Chicago I highly recommend checking out the views from this iconic skyscraper. The Skydeck is the highest observation deck in the United States and from the 103rd floor features expansive views of the city and lake front. Visibility from the Skydeck is approximately 40-50 miles. On a clear day you can see four states: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan.
Fun Fact
The average sway of the building is six inches from true center. But don’t worry the building is designed to sway up to 3 feet and you won’t feel it anyway.
Insider Tip
The Willis Tower Skydeck is a popular attraction, which receives about 25,000 people each day. The best times to visit are either early morning or evening. One way to beat the long lines and save money is to purchase a Chicago CityPASS. If you purchase the booklet ahead of time you can totally by pass super long lines and go straight to the elevator that swoops you up to the Skydeck.
The CityPASS also includes entrance to Chicago’s most popular attractions, The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, The Art Institute, Museum of Science, Planetarium, etc. It comes out way cheaper than purchasing tickets for each individual attraction. Especially if you’re traveling as a family.
Chicago CityPASS ~ See the Best and Save Money
Have you visited the Skydeck at the Willis Tower?
Where you brave enough to step out onto the platform?
Willis Tower related products.
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Most Popular Travel Magazines
While I sometimes read on my phone or kindle I still really enjoy reading books and magazines. I take them with me when I’m traveling, to the beach, on the plane, in the car, etc. I enjoy flipping through the pages and taking my time looking at the photography. I find it inspiring to read about other peoples experiences and travel stories from all around the world.
Everything about Travel Trailers and How To RV from Trailer Life Magazine.
Roadrunner Motorcycle Touring & Travel
Travel – Sunday Times Travel Magazine
Have you read any of these magazines?
What are some of your favorite travel magazines?
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This week I was invited to experience the Toro Toro Miami Spice menu and it was one of the most amazing food experiences of my life. Miami Spice is a mouth-watering restaurant promotion highlighting the very best of Miami cuisine. Running from August 1st to September 30th restaurants offer three course meals featuring signature dishes by world-renowned chefs at reduced prices. It’s an affordable way to try something new.
Toro Toro is located in the elegant Intercontinental Hotel near the American Airlines arena where the Miami Heat plays. The restaurant was brought to heart of downtown Miami by acclaimed Chef Richard Sandoval. Chef Sandoval is known for combining authentic Latin ingredients with international flavor and inventive techniques to create new and unexpected cuisines such as modern and coastal Mexican, Latin Asian, Peruvian and Pan Latin. The food is an array of hot and cold plates tapas style, steaks served a la carte and savory side dishes meant for sharing plates.
Enthusiasm is contagious. When you get a sneak peak behind the scenes of a restaurant you get to experience this first hand. The passion and zeal of the staff and chefs for what they do comes across in the service and the quality and flavors of the food. My impression was that everyone there was happy to be there and really enjoyed their job. Seeing the care that was taken with the preparation of the food highlighted my eating experience.
Upon our arrival we were taken to a private area near the kitchen for special guests and greeted with cocktails and h’ordevors. I enjoyed a very sweet Downtowner, which is a citrus, and vodka based drink garnished with orange peel. After a delicious appetizer, stuffed shallot with a buttery white sauce we were escorted to a private dining area with views of the kitchen to sample the Miami Spice menu.
We were brought course after course a large variety of plates with distinctive flavors. This is a great place to go with a group of friends to have drinks and share plates to explore and discover new favorites. Toro Toro’s Miami Spice menu is impressive for its variety.
If you enjoy meats I highly recommend ordering the generous Churrasco Platter. A selection of the best meats and cuts of picanha steak, prime ribeye, lamb chop, chorizo sausage and achiote chicken.
If you enjoy spicy food with bold flavors I recommend the Smoked Swordfish Dip. It’s a smoky spicy dish with pickled chilies, aioli and tomatoes served with plantain chips.
If you appreciate seafood like I do Toro Toro has lots to offer. I sampled and enjoyed the freshness of the Ceviche Nikkei with tuna, avocado, ponzu, leche de tigre, cucumber and quinoa. The Chicharron de Camarones is another dish you must try especially if you love shrimp. And my favorite dish of the evening, which just melts in your mouth, was the Chipotle Miso Seabass. The fish was perfectly seasoned with sesame seeds and eel sauce. This is a great example of how Chef Sandoval combines Latin flavors with seasonings of other cultures.
For dessert I highly recommend La Bomba which is dulce de leche mousse, strawberry ice cream, almond cookie crumbles, berries served in a chocolate shell. You will get a kick out of the way it’s served right on the table.
You can check out what else is on the Toro Toro Miami Spice menu by clicking here.
Have you been to Toro Toro Miami? What was your favorite dish?
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A curated list of Movies that will make you want to Travel. I’m a huge movie junky. Whenever I have time to relax you can find me watching movies if I’m not reading. I love stories and can’t get enough of them. Believe it or not I’ve actually watched all of these films and they made me want to travel. This is the second post in this series. Click here for the first batch of movies.
1. Far and Away
Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman are mesmerizing in this sweeping romantic epic about two unlikely travel companions who find love and new possibilities in the dangerous frontiers of America.
2.Wild
Driven to the edge by the loss of her beloved mother (Laura Dern), the dissolution of her marriage and a headlong dive into self-destructive behavior, Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) makes a decision to halt her downward spiral and put her life back together again. With no outdoors experience, a heavy backpack and little else to go on but her own will, Cheryl sets out alone to hike the Pacific Crest Trail — one of the country’s longest and toughest through-trails.
3. Amelie
Nominated for 5 Academy Awards including Best Original Screenplay, this magical comedy met overwhelming acclaim nationwide. A painfully shy waitress working at a tiny Paris café, Amelie makes a surprising discovery and sees her life drastically changed for the better! From then on, Amelie dedicates herself to helping others find happiness…in the most delightfully unexpected ways! But will she have the courage to do for herself what she has done for others?L’Auberge Espagnole (The Spanish Apartment)
Oscar winner Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men), Oscar nominee Penelope Cruz (Volver) and Golden Globe nominee Scarlett Johansson (The Nanny Diaries) light up the stunning city of Barcelona in this sexy romantic comedy. Vicky and Cristina are two young Americans spending a summer in Spain, who meet a charming Casanova and his beautiful but volatile ex-wife. When they all become romantically entangled, the smoldering sparks begin to fly in hilarious fashion.
5. Love in the Time of Cholera
When Florentino Ariza (Javier Bardem) sees Fermina Daza (Giovanna Mezzogiorno) through a villa window, it is love at first sight. Though a man of modest means, Florentino’s skill as a poet awakens a similar passion within Fermina. But Fermina’s father disapproves of the affair and vows to keep the lovers apart. Fermina eventually marries an aristocratic doctor (Benjamin Bratt), and they move to Paris. Florentino, however, still loves Fermina and patiently waits for a chance to be with her again.
6. Belle Epoque
BELLE EPOQUE is the irresistible story of Fernando, a handsome, young Spanish Civil War deserter who befriends a free-thinking artist. Fernando finds himself in a romantic dilemma when the artist’s four beautiful daughters return to their country home — which woman should he romance? The answer ishilariously simple, as Fernando is seduced instead, by each of the high-spirited sisters. BELLE EPOQUE is a rollicking sensual romp celebrating newfound sexual freedom for women. A delicious blend ofhumor and passion that captured the Oscar(r) (1993) for Best Foreign Language Film and introduced theworld to the enchanting beauty of Penelope Cruz (Vanilla Sky).
In one of the most widely seen and acclaimed European movies of the 1960s, Federico Fellini featured Marcello Mastrioanni as gossip columnist Marcello Rubini. Having left his dreary provincial existence behind, Marcello wanders through an ultra-modern, ultra-sophisticated, ultra-decadent Rome. He yearns to write seriously, but his inconsequential newspaper pieces bring in more money, and he’s too lazy to argue with this setup. He attaches himself to a bored socialite (Anouk Aimée), whose search for thrills brings them in contact with a bisexual prostitute. The next day, Marcello juggles a personal tragedy (the attempted suicide of his mistress (Yvonne Furneaux)) with the demands of his profession (an interview with none-too-deep film star Anita Ekberg). Throughout his adventures, Marcello’s dreams, fantasies, and nightmares are mirrored by the hedonism around him. With a shrug, he concludes that, while his lifestyle is shallow and ultimately pointless, there’s nothing he can do to change it and so he might as well enjoy it. Fellini’s hallucinatory, circus-like depictions of modern life first earned the adjective “Felliniesque” in this celebrated movie, which also traded on the idea of Rome as a hotbed of sex and decadence.
Julio and Tenoch are two teens ruled by raging hormonesand a mission to consume exotic substances. But one summer, the boys learn more about life than they bargain for when they set off on a wild, cross-country road trip with seductive, 28-year-old Luisa. Both boys taste forbidden fruit as Luisa schools them in the finer points of passion, but will their mutual desire for her destroy their friendship forever?
Overwhelmed by her suffocating schedule, touring European princess Ann (Audrey Hepburn) takes off for a night while in Rome. When a sedative she took from her doctor kicks in, however, she falls asleep on a park bench and is found by an American reporter, Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck),who takes her back to his apartment for safety. At work the next morning, Joe finds out Ann’s regal identity and bets his editor he can get exclusive interview with her, but romance soon gets in the way.
10. Cairo Time
A married magazine editor falls for one of her husband’s old acquaintances while vacationing in Cairo in this romantic drama from writer/director Ruba Nadda. Juliette (Patricia Clarkson) is a magazine editor who is happily married to Mark (Tom McCamus), a Canadian diplomat. Their kids are all grown up, and they’ve planned a three-week vacation in Cairo together when Mark gets delayed in the Palestinian territories and Juliette is left to navigate the Egyptian capitol alone. In order to ensure his wife’s safety until he arrives, Mark asks his former security officer and longtime friend Tareq (Alexander Siddig) to be her guide though the city. He never imagined that they would fall in love, but the more time Tareq and Juliette spend together the more difficult is becomes for them to deny their intense attraction to one another.
11. One Week
Chronicles the motorcycle trip of Ben Tyler as he rides from Toronto to Tofino, British Columbia. Ben stops at landmarks that are both iconic and idiosyncratic on his quest to find meaning in his life.
Following a motorcycle accident that leaves a charismatic member (Jean Dujardin, The Artist) of their group in an intensive care unit, a close-knit circle of friends embark on their annual summer getaway to Cap Ferrat in the southwest of France. Staying at wealthy family man Max’s (Fran‡ois Cluzet, Tell No One, The Intouchables)spacious vacation home, the sunny beachside idyll quickly becomes the backdrop of heated tensions and outbursts among the old acquaintances as the little white lies just beneath the surface of their relationships reach a boiling point. Featuring an all-star cast including Marion Cotillard (The Dark Knight Rises, La Vie en Rose) and Gilles Lellouche (Point Blank, Mesrine) and a soundtrack of classic hit songs, director Guillaume Canet’s follow-up to his smash-hit Tell No One is a touching, poignant, and inspiring dramatic comedy about owning up to the truths that define a life.
13. Paris
In Paris, a city of a thousand faces, everyone has a story. From Cédric Klapisch the award-winning writer/director of L AUBERGE ESPANGOLE comes a deliciously intimate new valentine to The City Of Lights featuring an all-star cast that includes Oscar®-winner Juliette Binoche (THE ENGLISH PATIENT), Romain Duris (THE BEAT THAT MY HEART SKIPPED), Mélanie Laurent (INGLORIOUS BASTERDS) and François Cluzet (TELL NO ONE). It s the story of a young Moulin Rouge dancer (Duris) awaiting a heart transplant, his single-mother/social worker sister (Binoche), and their rediscovery of the life, laughter and love that hides within every balcony, apartment window, street corner and market stall. These are the stories of the middle class and bourgeois, immigrants and students, fashion models and homeless, and all the lovers and strangers whose paths could only cross and whose worlds are about to change forever in PARIS.
Adam Goldberg delivers “an uproarious study in transatlantic culture panic” (MTV) as Jack, an anxious, hypochondriac-prone New Yorker vacationing throughout Europe with his breezy, free-spirited Parisian girlfriend, Marion (Delpy). But when they make a two-day stop in Marion’s hometown, the couple’s romantic trip takes a turn as Jack is exposed to Marion’s sexually perverse and emotionally unstable family, her coarse temperament with cab drivers and her ex-lovers… her many ex-lovers. Culture-shocked and ego-bruised, Jack finds himself hoping that their relationship can survive as their love is revealed in surprising ways.
15. The Fall
From the director of The Cell comes a visually stunning epic fantasy about a bedridden man who entertains a curious little girl by telling her a fantastical story of exotic heroes and far off places which reflects his state of mind. The central story takes place in a remote 1920’s hospital where a small girl named Alexandria (Catinca Untaru) is recovering from a severe looking shoulder injury incurred in a fall while trying to pick oranges. One day she happens to meet Roy (Lee Pace) – a stunt or “gag” man for the “flickers” or moving pictures- who seems to have injured himself out of a future in a particularly reckless stunt, even for those times. He is a clearly unhappy man who- through his own carelessness- unwittingly leads Alexandria to believe that he intends to entertain her with a lavish, epic story of exotic heroes and far off places. As the stuntman’s health reaches to the point of peril – so does the story he is telling her…with potentially fatal consequences.
Have you seen any of these films?
Do you have a favorite movie that makes you want to travel?
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Cool Ways to Preserve Your Vacation Memories
Vacations might not last as long as we would like them to but we can preserve our memories of them to enjoy and to pass on. When we experience fun with loved ones and family we want to hang on to that good feeling and share our stories with others. I know I always bring back postcards, tons of photos and all kinds of trinkets, mementos and souvenirs. I have scrapbooks and little collections around the house to remind me of those good times. Here are some fun and clever ideas to preserve and display your haul.
1. Just the Ticket: Ticket Stub Organizer
Organize and preserve your tickets from special concerts, shows, trips, and sporting events in this handsome organizer. Makes a great place for your ticket collection.
2. Luckies of London Scratch Map Travel Edition
Travel size world map. Scratch off top layer.
The Capello bath hardware collection by Umbra was inspired by the fixtures and details found in classical architecture. This graceful collection focuses on cohesive proportions with an antique sensibility, great for a coordinated look.
4. K&CompanySmash Folio, Retro Blue
This is the “unscrapbook” for the person who doesn’t have time or thinks they aren’t creative. Great way to keep track of your life, remember funny things, inspirations quotes, and project ideas. “Live it up, glue it down, and Smash it in.”
5. My Adventures: A Traveler’s Journal
Record your jet-setting, travels, and vacations with the My Adventures guided journal. Enjoy the lightly guided prompts for agendas, lists, and observations. Inside you’ll find plenty of open pages for daily journaling. There is also a handy address book to keep track of friends met on the road.
6. Family Tree 21-Opening Collage Picture Frame
Show off all your favorite family or vacation photos with pride in this traditional collage frame.
7. Beyond Words Coastal 6-piece Wall Photo Frame Set, White
Share your treasured memories in style with this beautiful coastal theme wall frame set. Each set includes 6 pieces (4 frames and 2 art plaques) and an easy wall hanging template for you to follow. You can also create your own unique layout! Each piece has a coordinating white woodgrain finish for the perfect casual wall gallery. Art plaque reads, “life is better at the Beach.” Perfect for display in any room of the home.
Keepsakes, notes, souvenirs, mementos, photos – we all accumulate bits and bobs that mean something to us but all too often they are scattered in draws, on shelves and left to gather dust. The perfect gift for someone who loves to keep gig ticket stubs, shells from far flung beaches, buttons that once graced a Grandparent’s shirt or simply Polaroids and pictures of friends and family.
9. Ticket Memento Storage Boxes (Drop Your Tickets)
Store and display ticket stubs from movies, concerts, sporting events and more with a Ticket Memento Storage Box. It’s a decorative way for ticket collectors to remember all of their favorite evenings.
10. Quickway Imports Old-Fashioned Small Suitcase/Decorative Box with Straps
Decorative box from Quickway Imports that is great for storage and decoration.
11. Mcs Industries 12-Inch by 12-Inch Shadow Box Frame
Show off a favorite scrapbook page, trophy, ribbon, cheerleading uniform, t-shirt or just about any other memento.
12. Personalized Photo Jigsaw Puzzle with Keepsake Tin
Family & friends can piece together the fond memories of a special photo with our Pieces of Love Personalized Photo Puzzle .
13. Alaska State Antique Map Photo Scrapbook
Scrapbook top load refillable post bound 10 double sided pages photo safe and acid free.
14. Anchor Hocking 2-Gallon Heritage Hill Jar with Glass Lid
A unique way to display photos and souvenirs. On the table, in the kitchen, and around the home, Anchor Hocking offers a wide variety of high quality consumer glassware products that are both beautiful and functional. Accent and organize the kitchen, bath or living room.
15. Distressed Wooden Two Tier Wall Cabinet
Display knickknacks and decorative items in true vintage style inside this rustic wooden wall cabinet from the Home Office Collection.
16. Uniifurn Wall Shelf Series White Display Cubes with Elegant Rounded Corner
Attractive white wall cubes give any wall in your home or office a striking appearance. Arrange in whatever fashion you like; whether it be grouped together or displayed separately.
17. Manchester Wood Glass Top Display Coffee Table
Featuring a glass top showcasing prized possessions or collectables, this beautifully crafted American solid ash coffee table also sports incredibly durable and thoughtful design that adds refinement to any setting.
18. Small Wall Mounted Curio Cabinet Shadow Box
A great way to showcase your collectibles.
19. Mini Configurations Shadow Box Book
Designer Tim Holtz has teamed up with Advantus to offer his Idea-ology line of unique paper craft embellishments, papers and tools with a vintage appeal. If you love configurations, then you’re going to flip for the new configurations book. Sized about half of the printers tray configurations, this one has an attached cover to lay completely flat when closed, or display open when standing up. Of course it includes all of the completely customizable inserts configurations is all about, but wait until you see what creative uses we’ve come up with for this one.
Have you tried any of these ideas to display your vacation memories?
How do you display your photos and souvenirs?
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I'm based in the wonderful state of Florida and I write about travel, food, experiences and events. I share tips and tons of photos. If you have a question about visiting Florida let me know how I can help you.
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