Travels with Alicia

It's hard to enjoy vacations activities when it's sweltering hot! The Pacific Northwest offers two diverse cities that are full of fun things to do and the weather is great in the summer.  Another option is the coast of Maine and Arcadia National Park.  I cant stop thinking about the lobster... You'll enjoy cools days and may even need a jacket in the evenings!

The Kentucky Derby, held annually on the first Saturday in May in Louisville, Kentucky, marks the beginning of the prestigious Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing. Attending this iconic event was truly a remarkable experience. I enjoyed an unforgettable girls' trip, and in this episode, I’ll share highlights from the weekend, insights into the event’s rich traditions, and what made it so special!

If you want to live the lifestyle of the rich and famous, this island is for you.  Our family loves this island.  It's exciting with many beach clubs and restaurants.  You can visit without spending a fortune, but it takes some discipline.  As long as you aren't looking for a quiet local Greek experience, you will be happy with Mykonos.

Tucked away in the heart of the Peloponnese, this charming little town is a hidden gem! It’s the real-deal Greek experience that most travelers miss. And trust me, your trip isn’t complete without booking a sailing adventure!

A playground for wealthy Athenians, Hydra oozes charm as one of the few Greek islands blissfully free of cars. Picture cobblestone streets, donkey rides, and endless sea views! Despite its laid-back vibe, it’s also home to Greece’s largest yacht club, where luxury yachts sparkle in the sun. Add a handful of glamorous beach clubs and celebrity-worthy hotels, and you’ve got the ultimate island escape!

The oldest city in Europe is a must-see for history lovers. The entire city is a living museum. Enjoy exploring the historical neighborhoods and indulging in local foods. If you love the beach, you have to visit The Athens Rivera.

Greece is on most people's bucket lists. It's a beautiful country with islands, mountains, and an amazing coastline. Join me in this episode as I share my best trip-planning tips for Greece.

Tam Coc is an awesome place to stay. It's close to restaurants, boat tours, massages, and many hotels at all price ranges. Tam Coc is walkable and has lots of ways to get to all the attractions.

Yellow buildings and lanterns are everywhere. Explore the streets and try the local specialties. The beach is only a couple of kilometers away. Enjoy bike rides through the rice fields too!

I'm already planning to return to this amazing low-cost beach town. There's a reason people choose to stay for months vs days: Endless accommodations, food, and lots of things to do. The fresh seafood is fantastic and I loved the grilled lobsters and crabs. There's a beautiful pedestrian walkway in front of the beach that I used every morning. It's close and easy to visit the mountains and even the beautiful town of Hoi An.

Here you will find the highest mountain in Vietnam. If you are brave, take the gondola to the top. There are numerous opportunities for short to long hikes. The rice fields are magnificent and the villages welcome hikers.

It is a bustling capital city with two interesting areas - the Old Quarter and the French Quarter. It doesn't compare to other fantastic Asian cities, in my opinion. You can find many high-quality hotels at reasonable prices and It's an affordable city to fly into from the US. Many people use it as the hopping-off point for other Vietnamese destinations. But, I think my expectations were too high... find out why in this episode!

Vietnam is not only a budget destination but also an excellent value for a vacation. There has been so much development in the past 5-6 years. We found "Top 5" hotels ranging from $55-120 per night with full buffet breakfasts. There are mountains, lakes, and beaches to explore. Don't forget to try all the amazing food and visit the beautiful temples.

This list is not your standard list of travel destinations. You will discover some unique places to put on your travel bucket list. I have visited all these destinations (some many times) and will provide some valuable insight.

Throughout my years of years of traveling the world, I have learned to avoid certain types of vacations. Learn from my mistakes and try these tips that can transform the average and overpriced vacation into a cost-effective and authentic experience you'll never forget. I promise you will thank me.

Philadelphia is the first UNESCO heritage city in the USA. It's full of history. Make sure you see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Look for the themes of freedom and activism which have been woven into the street art and murals throughout the city. Of course, your trip would not be complete without a cheesesteak and Philly soft pretzel.

In 2023, these towns made the Travel and Leisure list of coolest US towns. They are located across a bridge from each other so you even walk between them. Unique restaurants and antique stores fill the streets. You will also find a mix of 70's vintage vinal stores and hippy clothes !

Enjoy these tips to make your travel in 2024 better! Less stress and more fun. A little knowledge goes a long way - -happy traveling!