I am now seven weeks into my Total Knee Replacement (TKR) journey. Boy oh boy this is hard. If you are considering TKR, I recommend you talk to many different people, because everyone recovers differently. But if I can be of help by telling you my story, I am glad to. Let’s talk about Total Knee Replacement – My Journey.
Decisions, Decisions
What brought on my need for TKR? Well at 66 years old I can only assume it was a collection of many things; high school cheer leading, high heel shoes in my twenties and thirties, running half marathons in my fifties and sixties. All of these or just one of them could be factors in the onset of arthritis and the demise of the cartilage in my right knee.
Me in high school as a cheerleader
The pain in my knee began several weeks after I completed a half marathon. I did not have pain leading up to that run or during that run. It came on suddenly several weeks after. I rested, iced and stopped running for a few months. But the pain continued. Over a period of two years I had several cortisone shots and one hyaluronic acid shot and did a lot of physical therapy. My attempts to get back to running only brought the pain back. And so it was time to make some decisions.
I Love Running
The realization that I was no longer a runner was a mental and emotional blow to me. I love to run. It is therapy for me. It also provided me the activity I needed to lose and maintain weight loss. I felt healthier in my early sixties than I had my entire life. But the pain was too much. I decided on surgery.
Running in my fifties
Nearing the finish line, one of dozens of half marathons I ran
But as soon as I stopped running, and was doing long walks instead, most of the pain subsided. I kept wondering if I could delay surgery longer. How much longer? Since we travel so much, I was concerned about unexpected crippling pain while I was abroad. I just didn’t think I should take the chance. So, we blocked out six months for me to tackle the surgery.
I continued to golf last summer wearing a brace
I also did a lot of hiking on my favorite mountain last summer wearing a brace
Listen
Yes you should listen to your doctor. You should also listen to people you know who have been through TKR. And most of all you should listen to your body. Despite the fact that I am generally in very good shape, and have a normal positive outlook, I still have had a difficult recovery from surgery. Everyone is different. While some people are walking around at two weeks and driving at three, other people are still struggling at 4 months or more. Don’t assume anything, your body will tell you what kind of recovery you will have. Dig in and work hard. Don’t rush.
All smiles before the pain killers wore off on the day of my surgery
What I learned
I learned that my usual high pain tolerance would be put to the test with this invasive and difficult surgery.
I learned that the first 48 hours would be the easiest of the entire journey and that week two and three would be the worst.
I learned that pain killers are your friend, and don’t try to be macho and not take them. This surgery is by far the most painful thing I have ever done.
I learned working hard ahead of surgery on quad strength is imperative, and doing pre-hab physical therapy is a really good idea.
What my very swollen knee looked like on day two
I learned that everyone is different – a buckling of the knee post surgery has plagued me since the beginning. This is unusual but not unheard of and has caused me a longer recovery.
I learned how much I would need my home caregiver for so many things, especially in the first few weeks. My husband has been an angel and I salute those of you who have recovered without a live in mate.
My knee at week six
I learned that constant physical therapy starting immediately after surgery is painful but necessary. Slow but steady progress will come out of that work. I do PT at a clinic twice a week and at home 2-3 times a day. It’s important to be dedicated to this work no matter how much it hurts.
What’s Next?
I plan to continue my physical therapy into July…four months after surgery. Why? Luckily I have good insurance that will allow me that, and because I want to be as strong and as normal as possible by the end of the summer. We plan to start international travel again on September 1st. My entire focus is being ready by that date.
Week five trying to do normal things. That’s my son with me in Seattle.
I don’t expect to be perfect by then, generally recovery continues for most people up to a year. But by September 1st I want to be walking properly, hiking carefully and able to endure a long flight. These are my goals, for my travel life, my future health and a Total Knee Replacement- My Journey.
Total Knee Replacement – My Journey
I am grateful to all my friends and family who have reached out with love and kindness. And grateful to those of you who have inquired to my journey, asked questions and are interested in my story. This blog post is for you. Happy to answer any questions in the comments or in a private message.
Thanks as always for you continued love and support.
I absolutely love writing this blog post each year. Throughout the year I think about what experiences and places might make this list. And when it’s time to write – it’s a fun walk down memory lane as I reminisce about the previous year of travel. I hope it’s fun for you to read and enjoy the awards we bestow on our favorites and the best of the best (and a few duds too) from our year of travel; the Ninth Annual World Travel Awards 2025.
2026 begins our 10th year of travel as part of The Grand Adventure. What a remarkable ride it has been. Not sure exactly what the next few years will bring…but we already have some things booked and are working on more.
We loved our time in Melbourne area of Australia
2025
What an incredible year. We have had a wonderful year of travel; both long stays and short, independent travel and guided. Though we prefer longer stays (and we had some good ones) we had a lot of short stays too. We visited the Cook Islands, Australia, Singapore, Bhutan, France, Luxemburg, Canada, Germany, Switzerland and 18 US States. Here are the winners of the Ninth Annual World Travel Awards 2025!
Destinations – Ten Countries and 18 US States
Favorite Country – Bhutan and Honorable Mention Australia
Australia won this award two years ago and we visited AGAIN in 2025, but we have to give this coveted Ninth Annual World Travel Awards prize to Beautiful Bhutan for 2025. This amazing destination was a big bucket list item for me, and it did not disappoint. We used a tour company called My Bhutan and they took such great care of us. We loved it. Bhutan is likely a once in a lifetime destination given how expensive it is. But Australia is a place we will visit again and again and we are already planning to see that amazing country again in 2027.
Visiting Tigers Nest in Bhutan. Bucketlist.
Summertime in Australia
Favorite City – Bordeaux France and Honorable Mention Dijon France
We had a really long and amazing stay in France this year, basing ourselves for most of that in Bordeaux. A new to us city, surrounded by so many fun things to do. I think I could live in Bordeaux. The food, the wine, the history…it’s all there. We also visited several other French cities and we really loved Dijon. Small, manageable, historic and delicious. There is so much more to France than just Paris. I am so glad we had this long stay.
We loved our long stay in Bordeaux
I would like to spend more time in Dijon
Favorite Small Town – Duncan British Columbia and Stowe Vermont
We did two big road trips this year. The first one, from Seattle to Vancouver Island British Columbia; the second across the USA from Seattle to Maine. Both provided some wonderful adventures, scenery, culture and history. We found tiny Duncan British Columbia to be a marvelous surprise, peppered throughout the community with incredible and authentic totem poles. This was one of my favorite things we enjoyed on our BC trip.
Totem Pole in Duncan were so amazing
Stowe Vermont was also a lovely spot, and we spent several hours enjoying the fall colors in town as well as riding the gondola up for spectacular views.
Beautiful fall in Stowe Vermont
Favorite Island – Cook Islands and Maui USA
We always love a visit to Maui, one of our favorite places in the world. But 2025 introduced us to the Cook Islands. The island of Rarotonga made us imagine what Maui or Oahu must have looked like 50-75 years ago. Laid back, great seafood, kind locals and beautiful beaches; we would definitely return. Cook Islands was a first for us, so it’s place in the Ninth Annual World Travel Awards is a bonus.
The beach at our resort in the Cook Islands
We never get tired of Maui
Most Expensive Country – Bhutan
Bhutan, which wins the favorite country award for 2025, is also very expensive. You need a guide to visit Bhutan due to government regulations designed to preserve its culture and environment. While independent travel is possible within certain areas, a guide and driver are mandatory for all tours beyond the cities of Paro and Thimphu to ensure adherence to these regulations and to provide an immersive cultural and logistical experience. Additionally Bhutan requires all international visitors to pay the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which is currently $100 per person per night . This fee used to be $200 per day but has been dropped in recent years. Our ten day tour with My Bhutan cost $10,000 and included all transportation, most meals, all activities, amazing guide and driver, all accommodations and the SDF fee.
Hiking in Bhutan
Least Expensive Country – Cook Islands
We flew from Honolulu to the Cook Islands for 9 days and stayed at a basic but lovely little resort called Palm Grove. Our small individual cabin included a tiny kitchen and we cooked our meals a couple of days. But breakfast was included with our room, and restaurants were delicious and affordable. We used the public bus on several occasions, and although a bit old it was worth it not to worry about having a car. We also walked to many places, and we felt safe walking on the two lane road that circles the island because there is minimal traffic. This small and unpretentious island was a wonderful surprise and very inexpensive.
The Cook Islands
Favorite Airbnb – Bordeaux
We stayed in fewer Airbnb’s this year than in the past, but our long stay in Bordeaux France was in a unique, newly renovated three story townhouse about a mile from the historic core of the city. We loved it and would definitely stay there again.
Fun Airbnb in Bordeaux
Favorite Hotel – Middle Beach Lodge Tofino British Columbia
We had talked about a British Columbia road trip for several years, and this past July we made it happen. One of our favorite stops on this trip was the gorgeous Pacific Ocean destination of Tofino. Here we stayed at the beautiful Middle Beach Lodge. We loved it so much.
Rustic and perfect – Middle Beach Lodge
Favorite Bed & Breakfast – Covered Bridge B&B Glen New Hampshire
Our month long road trip across the USA included four nights in the tiny town of Glen, New Hampshire. We fell in love with the Covered Bridge House Bed & Breakfast for the great hospitality, location, hosts and breakfast! Highly recommend.
Covered Bridge House Glen New Hampshire
Best View Lodging – Tofino
The Middle Beach Lodge (mentioned above) was so cozy and included a wonderful view from multiple vantage points. We were in a standard view room, but the lodge also has stand-alone cabins, stand-alone tree houses, and stand-alone multi-bedroom houses. I hope to visit again.
I want to visit again
Food & Drink
Favorite Cuisine – France & Germany
Food is a big part of our travels and the Ninth Annual World Travel Awards bestows credit to the best. Of course France is always a winner for incredible cuisine, and our long stay in France did not disappoint. But we also love the food of Germany, and heartily enjoyed meats, stews, sweets and drinks on our Christmas Market tour in December.
France and the food. Oh My.
Pork Shank. Wow. Germany is deliciious.
Best Food Tour – Bordeaux and Switzerland
We try to take a food tour in most places we visit. For us it’s such a great way to learn about the local marriage of food and culture. We had an outstanding tour in Bordeaux early in our month long visit, and learned about regulations of French boulangeries, Cheese and much, much more.
Food Tour in Bordeaux
In Switzerland we had a unique opportunity to to take have a culinary experience of the beloved Swiss dish Cheese Fondue. We learned so much, ate so much, and enjoyed wine pairing too. If you ever have a chance to do this I really recommend it.
Authentic Swiss Fondue in Basel Switzerland
Best Cooking Class – Bordeaux and Bhutan
Well another tie is in order. We take a lot of cooking classes and always enjoy them. During our long stay in Bordeaux we spent an evening with The Gastronome, where we learned to make the local Bordeaux specialty of Caneles. DO THIS CLASS if you are in Bordeaux.
Canales! I made those!
Our tour in Bhutan included a cooking class, where we learned to make incredible Bhutanese dumplings with fresh and local ingredients. The we ate them along with many other traditional Bhutanese foods. Delicious.
Delicious dumpling and really lovely people in Bhutan
Best Meal – White Mountain Cider Co. Glen New Hampshire and Parapluie Dijon France
Well if you follow My Fab Fifties Life you know we love to eat! Whether it’s an authentic food cart or fine dining we make a point of enjoying the local cuisine. Two stand-out meals came to mind when we discussed this category. Impeccable meal at the White Mountain Cider Co., in Glen New Hampshire sitting next to a cozy fire and sipping great wine. And just as memorable, a Chef’s Tasting Menu at Parapluie in the fabulous city of Dijon France. We really fell in love with Dijon and hope to visit again!
White Mountain Cider Company, Glen New Hampshire
Parapluie, Dijon France
Best Beer – Germany
Well that was fun! While in Germany in December we had a unique experience learning about and tasting the specialty of Bamberg – rauchbier. Made with malt dried over an open wood fire, this smokey brew was surprisingly delicious. We tried five different kinds and ate it with a wonderful spread of German meats, cheese and pretzels. Definitely try smoky rauchbier.
Rauchbier was new to us
Best Wine – Saint Emilion France
Spending a month in beautiful Bordeaux France gave us such a leisurely opportunity to explore the wine regions of the area, including Saint Emilion where we visited twice. This fabulous medieval town is a cultural and historic gem, in addition to being one of the most amazing wine regions in the world. We loved it!
We fell in love with Saint Emilion and the wines of the region
Culture
Most Authentic Cultural Experience – Bhutan
Our time in Bhutan was truly magical. This tiny country is proud and protective of its culture and customs. As a visitor you are treated with great respect and our guides were amazing, funny, generous and so knowledgeable. We loved every day.
Bhutan Culture was Amazing
Most Amazing Man Made Structure – Tigers Nest Bhutan
Long on my bucket list, the day we hiked up to the Paro Taktsang Monastery (nicknamed Tiger’s Nest) was an incredible once in a lifetime day. The hike was steep but manageable. Our guides made sure we went early in the morning, and since we were on a private tour we could move quickly. This meant we were the second people to arrive at Tiger’s Nest. Having it to ourselves provided wonderful photo opportunities and a peaceful and serene experience. I am so grateful I was able to do this.
Astonishing Bhutan
Best Gardens – Melbourne Australia
The Melbourne Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful, peaceful and accessible city gardens in the world. We love it and would go back over and over. And it’s free.
Melbourne Botanical Gardens
Best Market – Christmas Markets
Our ten day Viking River Cruise in December gave us the opportunity to to visit ten European Christmas Markets. This was a first for us – both the markets and a river cruise. Our top three markets were Baden Baden, Heidelberg and Nuremberg.
Baden Baden Germany
Best Museum – National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum Cooperstown New York Honorable Mention Carnavalet, Paris
Our cross country road trip gave us a chance to visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame Museum. We had talked about doing this for years and it was a fun day to finally visit.
My hometeam – the Seattle Mariners at the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum
We also had an opportunity to visit a new to us museum in Paris, thanks to our local friend. The Carnavalet is fascinating and covers a wide range of topics. We did not have time to see it all but we will definitely go again on our next visit to Paris.
Carnavalet
Best Walking Tour – Luxembourg France
Brand new country to us – we spent three days in Luxembourg in May. It’s one of the countries we just kept missing…but now we have been and what a beauty it is. We walked and walked in Luxembourg City, including an amazing guided walking tour we booked through Viator. Definitely worth it when you are new to this city.
Deliciously beautiful chocolates in Luxembourg
Best Overall Historic Site – Rock Carved Sanctuary Saint Emilion France
This place. Mind blown. We visit Saint Emilion twice. The first time for the wine with a guide; the second time on our own for the wine AND to visit this incredible Rock Carved “Monolith” Sanctuary. Built in the 11th Century it really was one of the most amazing things I have seen.
Rock Carved Sanctuary Saint Emilion France
Best Performance
Seattle is our home base and we see great performances when we spend time at home. 2025 was no exception and we LOVED the David Byrne concert we went to this past November. If you ever have the chance to see him in concert do it.
David Byrne at Seattle’s Paramount
Best One Day Tour – Bordeaux France
Through VIATOR we booked a full day wine tour out of Bordeaux to visit the two prominent wine regions; Saint Emilion and Medoc. This was incredibly educational day learning how France grades their wines and regions and grapes and vintages. Very different than in the USA and it was fascinating. We visited six wineries in two appellations and had a spectacular lunch too.
Enjoying wines frm the Medoc region
Best Multi-Day Tour – Bhutan
A favorite destination for 2025, Bhutan, was also our favorite multi-day tour. A well thought-out and inspiring ten day visit to this amazing country. Made possible really because of our guides (see next category).
Arne making friends
Best Tour Guide – Llamo and Dan with My Bhutan
Kind, helpful and so educational, our time in Bhutan was first class, thanks 100% to our wonderful guides from My Bhutan Tours.
Our guides Llamo and Dan were incredible
Funnest Tourism Kitsch – Jolly Green Giant
It’s not a USA roadtrip with out stopping at some of the kitschy iconic roadside entertainment. My favorite this past fall was the Jolly Green Giant in Blue Earth Minnesota.
My twin Jolly Green Giant
Nature
Most Incredible Natural Site – 12 Apostles Australia and Dune Du Pilat Arcachon France
We stayed more than a month in both Australia and France, and though we had visited both countries before, we took the time to see new things. Two natural phenomena were astonishing and beautiful and made for a great day trip and photography. The 12 Apostles along Australia’s Southern Great Ocean Road is a must when in this part of this beautiful country. And Dune Du Pilat is an amazing sand dune on the French coast in Archachon, an easy daytrip from Bordeaux .
Australia’s Twelve Apostles
Dune Du Pilat in Archachon France
Best Wildlife Encounter – Australia and Yellowstone National Park USA
We never get tired of Australia and we are hoping to visit again in 2027. Australian wildlife is the most unique in the world and we love that. On this last trip we saw koalas in the wild for the first time – a dream come true for me.
Koala’s living there best life on Raymond Island Australia
Our amazing Bhutan guides (see above) were highly skilled in identifying birds of the region and we had so much fun with them seeing dozens of new-to-us birds in Bhutan. A highlight was the hoopoe, a very unique looking bird that had evaded us for years. We finally saw it in beautiful Bhutan. Additionally we were very lucky to see the endangered Black Neck Crane while in Bhutan. Although it was past the time these birds usually migrate, we were lucky and saw a few.
Hoopoe ( image from Merlin)
Endangered Black Neck Crane (image from Merlin)
Best Sunrise – Yellowstone National Park USA
Watching the sunrise over Yellowstone Lake on a cold crisp September morning was a treat.
Sunrise on Yellowstone Lake
Best Sunset – Maui Hawaii
Always a favorite, sunset on the island of Maui
Sunset Maui Hawaii
Best Beach – Australia
We had great beaches in Maui and the Cook Islands but a real treat was visiting Brighton Beach, a southern Melbourne suburb. This beautiful beach is home to the historic and iconic bathing boxes.
Posing with my favorite Bathing Box at Brighton Beach Australia
Best Waterfall – Niagara
We took a three hour detour on our cross country road trip to see Niagara. We had been there before, but it was decades ago, so we decided why not? It is a spectacular thing to see.
Niagara Falls USA
Best Natural Beauty – Australia and New England USA
Australia blows my mind each and every time and this year, New England in the fall was also breathtaking.
The southern coast of Australia
The view from Artists Point New Hampshire
Athletic Pursuits
Best Hike – Bhutan; Honorable Mention Big Tree Trail, Meares Island Tofino Canada
We did several hikes in Bhutan and loved them all, but of course climbing to see Tigers Nest was a lifelong dream.
If you look close you can see Tigers Nest on the cliff behind us. We hiked to it.
Our visit to British Columbia Canada and the Tofino area gave us several hiking opportunities. But one of the most unique things we did was take a small boat to tiny Meares Island to hike the Big Tree Trail. Not long (about three miles) but one of the most difficult and interesting hikes I have ever done.
Big Tree Trail, Mears Island BC
Best River Rafting Short Trip – Bhutan
Bhutan gave us so many opportunities to do so many different things, including a fun (and wet) day on the river.
Rafting in Bhutan on a beautiful spring day
Best Golf – Maui
We golfed a lot this year, both at home in the Pacific Northwest in on the island of Maui. Golfing is one of my favorite things to do when in Maui.
Golfing at Maui Nui
Best Place to Run/Walk – Maui
Early morning runs in Maui are like heaven. Before it gets hot, before the traffic and the people, it’s one of my favorite things to do in the world.
Sunrise Walk/Run in Maui
Best Sporting Event – Melbourne Australia
Australian Rules Football! We spent a month in the beautiful city of Melbourne. And it was Football season, Australia style. Rules for Australia football are very different, and the fan mania is almost as fun as what it happening on the field. We enjoyed going to the local Collingwood Magpies match and had a blast – even if we didn’t always understand what was going on.
Collingwood Magpies packed the stadium
Weather
Hottest Day – Australia
We were in Australia during the down under summer. Luckily we had a pool! Hottest day 95 degrees F.
Some pool time in Melbourne
Coldest Day – Heidelberg Germany
Visiting Heidleberg Germany in December meant some chilly temperatures, but it was the wind on this day that had us shivering in our boots. Coldest day 25 degrees F.
We bundled up and were glad we did in Heidelberg Germany
Wettest Day – Maui
In all the times I have visited Maui, we had never experienced the kind of extreme weather, rain and flooding that we saw in January. Mind blowing damage. Luckily no one was hurt.
Mud, debris and lots of damage to beaches, businesses and cars
Craziest Weather Experience – Paris France
While visiting Paris in May, we encountered another incredible weather event – hail the size of golf balls. Luckily we were inside, just preparing to leave a museum when the skies darkened and the most intense storm came out of nowhere. The hail was so big and so strong it broke windows in the museum.
What the hail in Paris
Travel
Longest Travel Day (Flight) Bhutan- India -Singapore-Zurich-Bordeaux
8934 miles 23 in the air and a total travel day of 40 door to door
We fly ALOT, but those really long travel days never get any easier
Longest Travel Day (Car) Buffalo Wyoming to Rochester MN
11 hours drive 781 miles
Welcome to Minnesota
Most Unexpected Flight Experience – Bhutan
After taking off from Singapore on our flight to Bhutan, we learned that the King and Queen of Bhutan were on our plane. When we landed, all the passengers waited to disembark until His Majesty and his entourage exited the plane and the runway. Watching from my window seat we had a great view. But in respect to Bhutan rules, I am not sharing a photo of His Majesty. Such an unexpected experience.
The entourage awaits for Their Majesties to disembark
Most Stressful Flight Experience -Bhutan
When it came time to leave Bhutan, a brush fire near the airport was causing us a lot of stress. We had to make our connection in Singapore or lose a lot of money. We waited a LONG time to find out if our incoming flight was going to be able to land (it finally did) and at last we boarded and took off!
Very smokey skies
Strange (and a bit rude) Train Experience – France
We spent ten days traveling by train from Bordeaux visiting great cities such as Lyon, Dijon, Luxembourg City and finally Paris. It was our first time using the French rail system and the Eurail pass. We did not realize our tickets had not been properly validated. The conductor, instead of explaining to us what we had done wrong, instead berated us rudely (and mostly in French) calling us names in front of all the other passengers. It was very strange experience.
On board Eurorail France
Excellent Ferry System – British Columbia
Our ten day visit to British Columbia gave us the opportunity to enjoy the amazing ferry system available there. On time, inexpensive, clean and efficient. We enjoyed it very much.
BC Ferry System is amazing
Best Cruise Experience – Christmas Market Cruise
We had never done a river cruise until this past December, when we spent ten days on board the Modi with Viking River Cruises. The itinerary focused on European Christmas Markets. I’m not sure we would do this again (it’s very expensive by our standards), but we had an enjoyable time.
Viking River Cruise
Best Airport – Changi Singapore
Changi wins again. It really is a remarkable and beautiful airport. Everyone should see it.
Changi is so entertaining
Expensive But Worth It
Bhutan
Our ten day private tour in Bhutan cost us $10,000. This included our guides, transportation, most food and all accommodations. This also included the tourist tax of $100 per day that the government uses to protect the beautiful culture and environment of Bhutan. Was it worth it? Absolutely.
Beautiful Bhutan
Best Photo of the Year
This was really hard for me to chose this year. So many opportunities for great photography in 2025. But after much consideration I have chosen this image. I love the reflection, the color and the unique shapes. Captured on a beautiful sunny day in late April in the small and historic French village of Bergerac, a couple of hours from Bordeaux.
Bridge over the Dordogne River, Bergerac France
Ninth Annual World Travel Awards 2025
There you have it. The best of the best of My Fab Fifties Life travel of 2025. Amazing, memorable and unique adventures with new cultures and fantastic experiences around the world. We sure hope you will consider visiting some of these places and enjoying some of these unique experiences too – the ninth annual world travel awards 2025. We always are available to answer questions or help you with your own travel plans. Please let us know if you do visit any of our suggestions.
Having fun with fall leaves in New Hampshire
What next?
As I post the Ninth Annual Travel Awards 2025 I am in Mexico. We just arrived after an incredible tour of Cuba. Over the next year we will visit anywhere from 10-14 more countries. See our plans here. But we will also be taking six months at our home in Washington State from March-August as I recover from knee replacement surgery.
Sunrise in Wuzberg Germany on Main River
The Ninth Annual World Travel Awards
It takes me weeks to write this post so I hope you have enjoyed the Ninth Annual World Travel Awards 2025. My goal is to inspire you. The world is so amazing…not everyone is going to want to go to places like Bhutan. I understand that. But I hope you have learned something and perhaps are motivated to step beyond your comfort zone. We hope you will continue to follow us around the globe. You could really help us by your comments, pins and shares of this post so others can follow as well. Thank you and stay fabulous. This travel blog wouldn’t be possible without all of you.
Sunrise in Melbourne
More From the Past
If you would like to see our Travel Awards from the past, you can click on any of these links; 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
Follow our 2026 adventures on Instagram where we post daily.
Be sure to check back NEXT FRIDAY for my post about Beautiful Cuba!
HAPPY NEW YEAR OF TRAVEL!!! We appreciate it when you comment, share and pin our blog posts – especially this one!! The Ninth Annual World Travel Awards 2025. Stay tuned! Lots of adventures ahead! Thank you.
Year ten begins. What? How time does fly! Our travel life continues with an incredible itinerary for 2026 – and it all begins next week. Here is our story Travel 2026 What’s Next for My Fab Fifties Life
Early years of the Grand Adventure in Australia
Year Ten
People often ask me what destinations are still on our wishlist. And as I always say, we are not trying to visit all the countries of the world. But there a few that still have, for many reasons, not yet been achieved. In 2026 we tackle several new to us destinations, while also revisiting some of our favorites.
But all that said, we also have a little different strategy for 2026, since I am going in to have knee replacement surgery in March. So here goes;
Cuba with Intrepid Travel
Confirmed – Nine Days – Intrepid Travel Fully Guided
Cuba (Canva)
Long on or wishlist, Cuba becomes a reality in January with our favorite tour company Intrepid. This will be our third time using Intrepid Travel, and though we usually are independent travelers, we have loved Intrepid. Intrepid offers a Cuba tour specifically for Americans. We will spend ten days in Cuba and I am very grateful for this opportunity.
Mexico New to Us Places
Confirmed – 26 days – Independent Travel – Hotels and Condos
Mexico (Canva)
After Cuba we head back to Mexico for a month. This time we will visit some new to us destinations; Cancun, Merida, Puebla and San Miguel de Allende. We will also visit some old favorites; Mexico City and Mazatlan.
Panama for Long Term Consideration
Confirmed – 14 days – Independent Travel – Airbnb
Panama (Canva)
Next it’s back to Panama. We have only been to Panama on a cruise, and this time we will have a two week stay in Veracruz. We hope to get to know this destination as we consider it for a long-term future stay.
Knee Replacement Surgery
Late February we return to the USA where I am scheduled to have knee replacement surgery in early March. I have been putting off this surgery for several years and it is time. I have given myself more than five months to recover from this surgery before we embark on more travel.
Greenland Adventure
Confirmed – Ten Days – Independent Organized Tour – Hotels
Greenland (Canva)
I have been dreaming about this destination for so long! With a brand new airport, Greenland is positioned to welcome many more visitors, and I want to get there before it gets too crowded. With a short window for visitors, we have booked a ten day independent tour (no guide) with Greenland Tours.
Svalbard Surprise
Confirmed Four Days – Independent Travel with Day Tours – Hotel
Svalbard (Canva)
Only recently did I add the island of Svalbard near the North Pole to my wish list. And after Greenland it’s time to head even farther North. We will make a brief stop in Copenhagen in transit and then head to Svalbard for just four days.
Fun in Finland
Not confirmed – working on it now
Finland (Canva)
Back on SAS Airlines we will head to Helsinki, Finland for a few days and then a week in Lapland. This is another long awaited destination that we canceled five years ago due to Covid. We are still working out the details of this destination.
New Territory with Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania
Not confirmed
Latvia (Canva)
There are only more four countries left that we had to drop when COVID hit. One of those is Ukraine and I’m not sure we will ever get there. But Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania will follow Finland. We will bus between the capital cities of these three countries and expect to spend about three weeks total.
Hello Holland and the Netherlands
Not confirmed
Holland (Canva)
Our time in Amsterdam has always been during long lay-overs (four times) so finally we will explore more than just Amsterdam and get to understand the history, culture and beauty of Holland and the Netherlands. We expect to spend about seven to ten days.
Back to Egypt
Not confirmed – Working on it, Now Guided Tour with Memphis Tours
Egypt (Canva)
Well it’s been twenty years in the making, but the Grand Egyptian Museum finally opened in November 2025. We had a great experience in Egypt when we visited several years ago using the tour company Memphis Tours. We have not booked this yet, but we are working with Memphis Tours again to visit this epic museum and see a little more of fascinating Egypt. Details still in the works.
Kick Back in the Azores
Not confirmed
Azores (Canva)
From Egypt via Zurich its a pretty easy hop over to Azores, one of Portugal’s most famous islands. Long on our list to visit, we hope to stay for a month.
Wrapping up 2026
The world is big and we want to see it. But being flexible is important, so we try not to book too far ahead. However some destinations (like Greenland and Svalbard) have such limited capacity its important to book in advance. We are excited for Travel 2026 What’s Next for My Fab Fifties Life.
While we continue to build this itinerary over the next several months, we expect 2026 to be another epic travel year. Departing January 1st and I will have the first of the 2026 blog posts by mid January – so no posts for a couple of weeks while we are traveling in Cuba.
Are you ready for a travel life? Ask me questions, I would love to help. And keep following as we embark on year ten, starting in Cuba.
Note – Most photos in today’s post are from CANVA
We love it when you comment and share our posts. Thank you.
Thanks as always for the love you give to this blog, now in it’s 14th year. I feel so blessed by all of you. This past year we have had some posts absolutely hit the record…with more views, reads and comments than ever before. So as I do at the end of each year, here is a list of your favorites – the Top Blog Posts of 2025 for My Fab Fifties Life.
Number One
To my surprise, the most read post of the year was about Cleveland Ohio. This was unexpected to me…I assumed one of my European blogs or Australian posts would have that title. But no, Cleveland Ohio Museums Not to Miss is the winner by a landslide. Loved both on Pinterest and for views and reads on the blog.
Cleveland Ohio Museums Not to Miss
A Very Close Second Place
Coming in second but only by a thread, was my very recent post Time to Plan New England in the Fall. If you have not done a fall color trip yet, use our guide to plan one now. We really enjoyed it, and apparently you enjoyed reading about it.
My Favorite Day Trips from Bordeaux and Bountiful Bordeaux, Eating My Way Through the City
The Great Ocean Road Victoria Australia Our very long stay in Australia resulted in multiple blog posts, but this one in particular really got a lot of love.
Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Angeles and the Olympic National Park
And these two rewrites that were updated and reposted in February also make the list. Both continue to be top performers year after year since they first were written in 2020;
Maui on a Budget It’s clear by the continued traction this post gets how much people are trying to visit Maui without breaking the bank. I’m glad we can help.
And there you have it. Your favorites of the year – Top Blog Posts of 2025.
More Great Posts on the Way
No blog post next Friday but come back after that for a report about our Winter European River Cruise. And in mid-January our annual World Travel Awards for 2025. Thanks for your continued support. We love it when you share our blog posts.
Port Gamble, Washington, at the northern tip of the Kitsap Peninsula, is a historic mill town. Founded in 1853 by Pope and Talbot’s Puget Mill Company. Originally known as Teekalet, the name was changed to Port Gamble after the bay it is situated on. Let me tell you about one of my favorite Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
Stroll around this preserved mill town
History
Founders Josiah Keller, William Talbot, and Andrew Pope developed the company town reflecting the New England style of East Machias, Maine. Port Gamble served as a lumber community, shipping lumber worldwide. After 142 years, the mill closed in 1995. The town has been preserved as a National Historic Landmark District, showcasing its unique 19th-century architecture.
So many historic buildings to admire
Entrance to the Historic Museum
Registered Historic Landmark
Where is Port Gamble
It’s a perfect stop for travelers headed to the Olympic Peninsula via Bainbridge Island or the Kitsap Peninsula. An unincorporated community, it is part of the Port Gamble Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. Port Gamble sits on the west side of of Port Gamble Bay and near the shores of Hood Canal. The Port Gamble S’Kallam Reservation is on the east side. It is definitely a Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
A perfect place to order a take away lunch and wander down to the picnic tables with a view. Easy to order ahead on the website. There are a few tables inside too and a great espresso stand.
Butcher Baker Provisions is housed in a historic service station
Shared this giant fried chicken sandwich with my mom. It was amazing
You must spend some time in this unique shop with a wonderful selection of unique items. For gifts or for yourself, it’s hard to leave the Port Gamble General Store without a treasure. A small cafe in the back serves sandwiches and ice cream. A new restaurant is slated for late 2025 as well.
With extra time you should visit this lovely forested 3500 acre park. Trails for walking, biking, and horses, and access to water for kayaks. Just south of the town of Port Gamble.
Port Gamble Heritage Forest Park
Make a Visit
Port Gamble is close to many other fabulous Kitsap Peninsula destinations like Poulsbo and Bainbridge. It is also an easy day trip from Bremerton, Tacoma, or Seattle. Make a visit to this true hidden gem, and step back in time for a perfect day. It is a favorite Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Port Gamble Washington.
You may read this title and think – Portland is not a hidden gem. I absolutely agree! Quirky and delicious Portland is far from a hidden gem. It is a well known Oregon destination and Oregon’s largest city (620,000). But tucked away in its fabulous little neighborhoods are many wonderful places that are hidden gems. And a few of those I am going to share with you in today’s post, Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon. And don’t miss a special offer in this post for a special Portland tour…
Welcome to Oregon
Portlandia
The land of Portland is home to many iconic places including Powell’s City Books, Voodoo Donuts, The Pearl, Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland Japanese Garden, McMenamins and the Portland Trail Blazers – to name a few. All of these awesome and well known. But on our recent visit to Portland we set out to visit new to us places. We were looking for places that locals likely know, but me as a visitor had yet to explore. We found a colorful and fun collection of Portland treasures. So here they are, my hidden gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon. I welcome you to add more in the comments!
The famous Portland Oregon sign
Go Outside
My visits to Portland have always been brief – a day or two at the most. But I had a little more time on this long weekend, so we made a point to enjoy some outdoor hiking and flower sniffing;
This immense urban forest park covers more than 5100 acres with over 80 miles of trails. We were astonished by the vast park just west of the city of Portland. We did a five mile hike through thick forests and shared the trail with a few other hikers, walkers and mountain bikers. It was beautiful, peaceful and a true hidden gem.
Not to be missed, the hillside Hoyt Arboretum is a testament to Portland’s forefathers who valued forests and education and had the foresight to preserve this beautiful space. Open year around and FREE OF CHARGE this amazing park is home to 2300 species from around the world. I highly recommend it..
I don’t know how I have never been here. We were lucky to visit during the peak of rose season, and we absolutely marveled in this free park, home to 10,000 individual rose bushes. Founded in 1889, the Portland Rose Society is a nonprofit organization offering educational programs on rose culture and encouraging the use of roses in the landscape. The primary purpose of the garden is to serve as a testing ground for new rose varieties. I will certainly visit here again in the future.
A definite hidden gem. I will stay here again. We chose this hotel because it was close to Keller Auditorium where we were seeing Elvis Costello in concert. It’s a bit south as far as downtown is laid out, but we walked everywhere (five minutes to the river and 15 minutes to the Pearl). For only about $160 a night we had a comfortable room, secure parking (extra), beautiful patio, breakfast, excellent happy hour and a free s’mores hour. How fun is that?
Comfy room at Hotel Zags
Funky and fun art at Hotel Zags – a definite hidden gem of the Pacific Northwest
Happy Hour at Hotel Zags
S’mores Hour every night at Hotel Zags
Wander Wonder
On Saturday we decided to just wander, both on foot and in the car and here are a few hidden gems we discovered along the way;
Southeast Division street is one of Portland’s coolest neighborhoods with eclectic mix of funky, fun and food too. We were not looking for anything specific, but I had never wandered this area, so that is exactly what we did. Great coffee shops, restaurants, vintage, book store and more.
Not a hidden gem for locals, this riverside market is celebrating 50 years, and is one of the original outdoor markets. Today every town seems to have a farmers or craft market. But this one is tried and true and not to be missed when visiting Portland on a weekend.
Serving Portland since 1919, they don’t make ’em like this anymore. Selling classic western, cowboy boots, Pendleton blankets and more. It’s like stepping back in time.
Yep. I said Ghost Tour. We have done one other Ghost Tour in our travels and loved it. A Ghost Tour is much like a walking history tour, but with some terrifically tragic history and often debauchery thrown in. We booked with USA Ghost Adventures (similar tours around the country) and our Portland Ghost Tour guide Victoria Rose was spot on for the theme. Dressed the part and with a wonderful tour presentation, which she told me she had worked to develop and present over a decade. Portland has some sad events, much like most of the rough and tumble west coast cities that developed in the 1800’s. We learned about the Shanghai Tunnels, Portland’s Chinatown (once one of the largest in the country and today just a shell of itself), the tuberculosis plague, prohibition and prostitution. The tour ended at what is considered one of the city’s most haunted space – a parking lot. Here the site of a mass grave for dozens if not hundreds of the Chinook Nation. After three structures burnt to the ground on this property, no one will build there and it is a parking lot.
Learning Portland History
Old Town
I am a ghost skeptic, but I enjoyed the tour a lot, learned great history and stories and found our guide very entertaining. I highly recommend it for something educational, fun and fantastical. And if you book this tour (or maybe you want to try the Lizzie Borden tour), my readers get a 10% discount. So why not try it? Use Code FAB50S when booking at US Ghost Tours – if you dare…
Lots of tunnels run under our feet in Old Town
Victoria Rose had a fun and engaging tour
A little editing magic to this photo for a spooky effect
Fill Your Belly
Of course no matter where we are, food plays a big part in our travels. Portland is a wonderful foodie city, with something for everyone. We went in search of new-to-us places – from one of Portland’s top rated restaurants to Portland’s famous Food Truck Pods. Here is what we found;
Portland is home to 76 Food Truck “pods” as they are called here, with more than 500 food trucks/carts active. Isn’t that amazing? Though not the original city to host food trucks, Portland was one of the earliest municipalities to embrace this food culture. Today it is a integral part of this foodie town. We had never explored the “pods” located on the east side of the river, so on this trip we drove to the Hawthorne Asylum Food Pod located in Southeast Portland. We found street parking and enjoyed this colorful and busy spot, with delicious local beer too. I would go back here for sure.
As many of our readers know, we like beer. Well my husband loves beer. And Portland, like much of the Pacific Northwest, is a beer lover’s haven. Arne chose to visit Grand Fir Brewing where we enjoyed several of their beers and a really delicious lunch too. Grand Fir has a female brewmaster and owner, so I’m all over supporting women owned, local owned and Pacific Northwest businesses. Food was great too.
Born in Portland in 1999, Stumptown Coffee (Portland was once nicknamed Stumptown after they cut down all the trees) can now be found in many other cities too. But Portland loves their Stumptown, so we had to try it. We loved the funky vibe of the Stumptown location in Old Town, and it was a great place to have a cuppa, and watch Portland wake up.
One of the best meals we have had in a long time, we chose Q because it had great ratings and it was walking distance from our hotel. Service was great and they asked right up front if we had a time crunch. Since we were headed to a concert at Keller Auditorium, they assured us we would get out with plenty of time.
Warm olives and hummus
Amazing Lamb
The menu was amazing, unique and northwest. We started with warm olives and a delicious deep fried spring roll. So good. I chose the lamb, although I was waffling and almost had the catch of the day. Lamb was perfect. Arne had Osso Bucco, one of his favorites and certainly not something I make for him at home! So we were both very happy with the food, service and the ambiance. Reservations a must at this trendy Portland hot spot. Don’t miss it!
Portland’s go-to for comfort food since 1992, we had to visit for the first time, after reading the reviews. It was a Sunday and also Father’s Day so I was really glad we had made reservations. It was crowded, but the food was great and the coffee even better. I had the Northwest Salmon Hash and Eggs and Arne chose the Corned Beef Hash and Eggs. I was tempted by the Eggs Benedict, but I order that so often I thought I would be a rebel and try something new. Glad I did!
What a wonderful surprise to find Nordic Northwest, a place I had never heard of before. We went in search of Olle Bolle, the last of the Pacific Northwest Thomas Dambo trolls I wanted to see. And “ya sure ya betcha” we found him – at Nordic Northwest. What a wonderful spot for food and education and heritage of the Nordic history of the region.
Olle Bolle at Nordic Northwest
Peek a boo!
About 20 min outside of Portland, check out the Nordic Northwest calendar of events, make a reservation for good Scandinavian meal, or bring a picnic and enjoy visiting Olle Bolle. The original Scandia House on the property is open for tours a few times a year. Check the schedule to learn more.
I loved it.
My new friend Olle Bolle
Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon
We loved our visit to Portland and enjoyed an adventure to discover new-to-us gems. If Portland is new to you, include our recommendations here in your itinerary. If you are visiting again, you might enjoy some hidden gems, or you certainly can find your own hidden gems in this West Coast city. Thanks for reading my Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – Portland Oregon post.
We were lucky to encounter the most charming little hidden gem, on Washington’s Key Peninsula. We stayed in the KPMushroom House, nestled in the woods next to Penrose Point State Park. Only 30 minutes from Gig Harbor, 45 minutes from Tacoma, an hour and 15 minutes from Seattle and 3 hours from Portland, it’s a perfect get-away any time of the year. Let me tell you about this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Mushroom House Key Peninsula.
Couldn’t be cuter
What is a Mushroom House?
Not only is this magical cabin in the woods shaped like a mushroom, it is loaded with charming mushroom touches both obvious and hidden. Built by a young couple, Rod and Shannon, the project, like most, presented more challenges and a higher cost than originally expected. More than three years after breaking ground, Shannon and Rod celebrated the completion of their artistic creation – a true Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Mushroom House Key Peninsula.
Morning coffee under the forest canopy
Interior is a work of art
Hidden nooks and crannies around every corner
“Found” treasures like this giant bellows add so much drama and fun
Tragedy
But this fairy tale came to a stop, when Rod was killed in 2023 while flying solo in his Cessna over the Olympic Peninsula. This tragedy was, of course, devastating to Shannon and Rod’s family and friends – many who had helped bring the Mushroom House to life. Shannon was determined to keep the house in Rod’s memory, and she has worked tirelessly to create a happy ending.
Gorgeous staircase including a tree on top
Multiple well throughout outdoor spaces
Believing in Magic
If you are looking to find a little magic in the woods, The Key Peninsula Mushroom house is available to rent on Airbnb. We visited midweek in June, before the busy summer rush. And we were enchanted by so many special little touches;
Eclectic and Reclaimed
The 930 square foot house sleeps four with a main loft bedroom and a smaller Murphy Bed in the living room. The reclaimed and natural additions to the construction include beautiful wood from the property, wood and concrete countertops and cabinets, and vintage or antique items turned into useful and beautiful additions. And everywhere you look – mushrooms.
Eclectic
Reclaimed
Mushroom are everywhere
Never Never Land
If you grew up in the Pacific Northwest in the 60’s and 70’s you probably visited Never Never Land at Point Defiance in Tacoma. I definitely did. Back when kids were not stimulated all day by screens and devices, Never Never Land was a magical place for kids. I took my young children there too, in the 1990’s before it closed due to lack of interest and changing times. I have a framed postcard in my kitchen of Humpty Dumpty at Never Never Land.
Little Miss Muffet sat on her tuffet
Little Jack Horner sat in his corner
Rod, like many from Tacoma and beyond, felt nostalgia for Never Never Land, and when some of the original figures went up for auction, he purchased them. Today, as you wander the little trail near the Mushroom House, you encounter Little Miss Muffet, Little Jack Horner and Three Men in a Tub. I remember them all with a fondness that is difficult to explain if you are not from the Pacific Northwest. But The Mushroom House has brought them back to life as part of this Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Mushroom House Key Peninsula.
Rub a Dub Dub, Three Men in a Tub
This is my Never Never Land Postcard which hangs in my kitchen with other vintage postcards
Beneath the Twinkling Stars
Multiple outdoor spaces provide both day and evening nooks to relax and enjoy some forest bathing beneath the stars. A hot tub is available as well as two separate fire areas, one a fire pit the other a fireplace. Shannon provides fixins for s’mores too. Just behind the Mushroom House the 2 acre property opens up into a meadow, a great place to throw a Frisbee, do yoga or star gaze.
Firepit and wood is provided
Covered seating area perfect for all seasons
Hot tub too
Making s’mores after dinner
You May Never Want to Leave
The Mushroom House is within walking distance of Penrose Point State Park, a perfect place to beach comb or hike. Penrose is one of my favorite State Parks and it too is a hidden gem. It’s also a short drive to Key Center where you will find a grocery store and other services. 2 Margaritas Restaurant is only about a mile from the house. Staying longer you might consider a day in Belfair or Gig Harbor or a drive around the Hood Canal.
Awesome garden
Perfect touches on theme
The beach at Penrose Point State Park
The dock at Penrose Point State Park
Or you may want to just put your feet up, read a book, and breathe. It really is one of the most peaceful places I have ever had the pleasure of staying. A magical fairy tale that might just be the happy ending you are looking for. Book your stay here.
Maui might be a once in a lifetime trip for you. If it is, you hopefully can afford to do some of the most amazing activities the island offers. But plan well in advance and be ready to spend a pretty penny. It is one of the most expensive destinations in the world. So here are some tips if you want to enjoy Maui on a Budget.
I have been lucky enough to visit Maui many times, and have enjoyed the Luaus, whale watching, snorkeling and some amazing first class meals.
Kamaole Three Beach
But during our most recent visit, we made a big effort to lay-low and spend less. Sticking to our pre-designed budget is important in our travels, otherwise we can not continue to travel as we do. On our recent visit to Maui there were some new activities we considered, from cooking classes to glass blowing to chocolate tours. But, we chose to do Maui on a Budget. And you can too.
It won’t be easy, but there are ways to enjoy Maui on a Budget. And through the years I have discovered several things you can do to save money. Hopefully, some of these suggestions will give you a positive visit to this beautiful island paradise without breaking the bank. So here are our suggestions for Maui on a Budget.
Maui
When to Come
Choose to visit the island during the off-season and absolutely don’t come over the Christmas holidays. June-October is a great time to visit and the island is quieter and you will have a wide choice of accommodations.
Maui
Where to Stay
There are many, many condos available for rent and you will find it less expensive to stay in a condo than in a resort. By renting a condo rather than a hotel you can cook most of your meals and not blow your budget on eating out. Condos usually offer great pools and barbecue area for guest use.
Kamaole Sands was affordable in Kihei
Groceries
If you have a Costco membership use it. Although the Maui Costco can be very busy, you can really save money by shopping there. We did price comparison on cases of beer and it was astonishing. Gas at the Maui Costco is also much less.
We also found prices at Foodland and Times grocery stores were less than Safeway. I always bring a few things from home such as a small amount of spices, coffee, rice. If you have the room, try to bring things that are portable and you know you use regularly.
Maui
Rental Car
It’s pretty hard to visit Maui without a rental car. Unless you are only staying for a couple of days I highly recommend you get a car. But there are several rental agencies on the island renting older model cars for much less. We have used Kihei Rent a Car several times. The cars we have rented are Nissan, about ten years old, run great and get us where we need to be. About $34 a day this last visit as compared to $99 – $149 at the more well-known brand name rental agencies. There are some other budget friendly rental car agencies on the island too. Do your research.
Maui Sunset
Dining Out
Dining out in Maui is pretty expensive. That’s why we mostly cook in our condo. It is less expensive to visit some of the restaurants where the locals go…I recommend Sam Satos and Saigon Cafe. Another really great way to save money dining out while getting to enjoy some of Maui’s best restaurants is to go to Happy Hour. Many restaurants have a daily Happy Hour and you can get a reduced menu but the same great food for much less money. For instance, we enjoy Three’s Bar and Grill in Kihei for their happy hour food menu and their Mai Tai, normally $14 is 6.25 during Happy Hour. You can get a comprehensive list here Maui Happy Hours.
South Maui Gardens
Consider eating at some of the local food truck villages that have popped up around the island over the past few years. Maui has tons of food truck options now including in Kihei, Kaanapali, Wailuku, Kahalui and more. One of my favorite new food truck little gem is South Maui Gardens. Read this for more for ideas.
Food Trucks
Equipment
Before you spend $60 at Costco to buy a beach chair, double check with your condo to see if they have chairs available. Many condos have chairs, snorkel gear and even boogie boards available for their guests.
Keep your eyes out for locals selling used gear along the roadside.
Gently used equipment
Snorkeling
The beaches are free of course (did you know every beach in the state of Hawaii is a public beach) and many beaches are great for snorkeling. You don’t need to pay for an expensive tour to Molokini to see beautiful fish and coral. Check out this list here. Snorkel gear can be a carry on item if you pack it properly, saving you rental fees on the island. Check with your carrier for more information.
Maui
Whale Watching
Now you won’t get up close and personal, but from December – March you can whale watch right from the beach. There are 10,000 humpback whales that visit the waters between Maui, Lanai and Molokai every winter. With so many whales it’s not difficult to see them from the beach or from the look out point located on the Honoapi’ilani highway between Kihei and Lahaina.
Whale watching from the look out at Honoapi’ilani Highway between Kihei and Lahaina
Nature
Be sure to visit two nature preserves in South Maui that are free to visit. The Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge offers a walk through brackish area to view many of Maui’s most interesting birds. Access is from the Pi’ilani Highway ( also called the Maui Veterans Highway) and it is free.
Another part of this nature reserve is the Kealia Coastal Boardwalk, access this from the North Kihei Road. This is a great one for kids because it includes colorful and interesting interpretive signage and is an easy walk. Also free.
The ponds at Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Hiking
Hiking is free and there are some wonderful hikes on Maui. Check out our post Six Great Hikes on the Island of Maui. A Maui hike also affords you the opportunity to bird watch, whale watch and enjoy the local flora of this island. Some hikes also have historic and sacred sites – be culturally aware and respectful and learn about the heritage and history of the Hawaiian people. By the way, if you are a Senior and have an America the Beautiful National Park Pass be sure not to leave it at home. The pass will save you the $30 entry fee into Haleakala National Park.
La Perouse hike South Maui
Hula Shows
Luau’s are expensive, and when you are trying to do Maui on a Budget they are out of the question. But if you want to see a free hula show during your visit, there are several places that offer shows at different times depending on the time of year. Lahaina Cannery Mall, Maui Mall, Whaler’s Village, Four Seasons Resort Wailea and Kaanapali Beach Hotel all have shows sponsored by Hawaiian Airlines. See the schedule here.
If you are in South Maui, the Shops at Wailea do a wonderful free hula show with great live music every Tuesday from 5:30-6:30. This show is popular but there is a large area to sit on the ground or on a few chairs provided. Definitely worth it.
Another option is the Hula show held weekly at South Maui Gardens. This show costs $100 but it is full professional show with music. It does not include the luau food, just the show. It’s very popular and sells out in high-season so reserve ahead of time. Learn more at South Maui Gardens.
Canva
Golf
If you want to golf on Maui but can’t swallow the high prices, check out the Waiehu Municipal Course. Gorgeous views for a fraction of the cost.
Since we always stay in Kihei, we bring our clubs and golf 2-3 times a week at Maui Nui. If you plan to golf more than three times, it pays to buy the Maui Nui Players Program Card. Maui Nui has been extensive improvements over the past few years and we really enjoy it.
Golfing at Maui Nui
Other Cool Stuff
Visit Ho’okipa to watch the surfers….its absolutely remarkable and its free. While you are there you will probably also see turtles. This is the beach you can almost always be guaranteed to see turtles hauled up and sunning themselves on the beach. We have also seen the Hawaiian Monk Seal sleeping on the beach here. A rare treat. Remember…the seal and the turtles are protected…stay back and enjoy from a distance.
Maui
A lot of people try to go to Haleakala for sunrise. I admit it’s a cool thing to do, but reservations are now required. Sunset is easier and free and you can view it from much of the island. There are dozens of places to watch the sunset from Makenna to Kapalua, for free.
Maui
Give Back
Whether you are on a budget or not, consider giving back to the people of Maui. Many people suffered greatly during the recent Lahaina fires, and during Covid prior to that. Every time we visit Maui we make a cash donation to the Maui Food Bank. Thanks for considering it.
Maui on a Budget
Yes you can do Maui on a Budget with a little frugal planning. It’s worth it to enjoy this island paradise, even if you are watching your pennies. Maui No Ka Oi!
Thanks for reading Maui on a Budget. We love it when you pin, comment and share our blog posts. Mahalo.
I absolutely love writing this blog post each year. Throughout the year I think about what experiences and places might make this list. And when it’s time to write – it’s a fun walk down memory lane as I reminisce about the previous year of travel. Maybe I can inspire you to travel to some of these places. I know for a fact several of my followers are planning visits to Australia … which was our favorite country from 2023! I hope it’s fun for you to read and enjoy the awards we bestow on our favorites and the best of the best (and a few duds too) from our year of travel; the Eighth Annual World Travel Awards 2024.
The Acropolis on a rainy night
We are now into our ninth year of travel as part of The Grand Adventure. What a remarkable ride it has been. Not sure exactly what the next few years will bring…but it’s already open for discussion.
2024
What an incredible year. We have had a wonderful year of travel; both long stays and short, independent travel and guided. Though we prefer longer stays (and we had some good ones) this year included more short stays than in the past. This resulted in the greatest number of countries ever – TWENTY FOUR! The list includes;Â Thailand, Singapore, Italy, San Marino, Spain, Andorra, Greece, Albania, North Macedonia, Serbia, Austria, Slovakia, Madagascar, USA, Armenia, France, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, United Arab Emirates.
Wild & Wonderful Kyrgyzstan
Destinations – 24 Countries & 2 US States
Favorite Country – Madagascar
The wildlife in Madagascar blew my mind
I never imagined Madagascar would be my favorite country of this travel year. But we were astonished and enchanted by the beauty, the wildlife and the people. Madagascar had been on our bucket list for a very long time, and it was worth the wait.
Favorite City – a tie between Athens Greece and Vienna Austria
Athens
Vienna
With so many destinations it really is hard this year to choose one favorite, and these two cities charmed us. We returned to Athens after having a poor experience the first time and I am so glad we did. It is remarkable. And Vienna with its astonishing beauty is definitely one I hope to visit again.
Favorite Town – Khiva Uzbekistan and Alberobello Italy
Khiva Uzbekistan
Alberobello, Italy
For overall history, beauty and unique experiences these two lovely towns, though very different from each other, were our two favorites of the year. Khiva Uzbekistan and Alberobello Italy
Favorite Island – Crete Greece and Honorable Mention to Sicily Italy
Crete
Sicily
My husband and I discussed this category in depth and finally settled on Crete with an Honorable Mention to lovely Sicily. We had long stays on both, during off season in both, which gave us a great opportunity to experience the heart of these remarkably unique places. We would love to return.
Most Expensive Country – Austria
Vienna Austria
We only visited Vienna on our six days in Austria, but Vienna is expensive. Despite staying a bit outside of the historic core, our hotel was expensive. And despite loving all the food we enjoyed, it too was very expensive. But this city is worth a visit, no matter what.
Least Expensive Country – Thailand
For budget travelers, Thailand is the place
We spent a month on the island of Koh Chang, doing very little. We didn’t love our Airbnb, but it was comfortable enough and cheap. However it was so far away from anything including a supermarket or even a restaurant, we had little reason to spend any money during our month long stay.
Accommodations
More hotels than in past years but also several Airbnb’s, and some wonderful yurts!
Favorite Airbnb – Crete Greece
Restored Historic Airbnb in Crete
We loved this big beautiful stone house with swimming pool we rented with friends in Chania on the island of Crete. A restored historic home was perfect for a group. Another smaller unit next door we might consider in the future.
Favorite Hotel – Singapore
Comfortable, clean and affordable Singapore Oasia Hotel
We stayed in ALOT of hotels this year (35), it’s hard to even remember them all. But we chose the Oasia Hotel in Singapore as our favorite. In fact we just booked that same hotel again for next March. The best thing about this hotel was it was affordable, in a city that can break the bank, and the staff was great, room was comfortable and the location was excellent. I’m sure this will be our go-to for layovers in Singapore from here on.
Best Airbnb for Service – Yerevan Armenia
Yerevan Airbnb
Some Airbnb’s you never hear from your hosts, while others are helpful and kind. We had several exceptional hosts this year, but we give this award to our host David in Yerevan Armenia. When we were in a car accident (see more about that below) he made sure we got to a hospital, served as our interpreter and would not accept any compensation for giving up his Sunday to assist us. It’s rare we have emergencies like this, but we are forever grateful to kind people like David.
David never left our side at the Emergency Room
Most Expensive Airbnb – Chania Crete
A caveat is needed here – This Airbnb was three bedrooms with a pool and we shared the cost with two other couples. It was beautiful too and we loved our stay at $174 per night.
We loved this place in Crete I would like to go back.
Least Expensive Airbnb – Baku Azerbijan
The view from our Baku Apartment
Although it smelled of cigarette smoke, our older apartment in Baku also came with an amazing view – for only $35 a night.
Best View – Koh Chang Thailand
That view
Although we had some issues with this property and the host, we gotta say the view was unparalleled.
Most Unique Accommodations – Kyrgyzstan
Biggest Yurt ever is where we had our meals
Our tour through the Five Stans had us staying in hotels, home stays and yurts, and our favorite was the Almaluu Yurt Village in IssyKuhl Lake, Kyrgyzstan. Comfy and warm, the unique and historic style of nomadic housing is beautiful and functional and now I want one for my own!
Food & Drink
Favorite Cuisine – Sicily and Georgia
Sicily is all about the freshest ingredients
Kachapuri is Georgia’s national dish. So good!
Vastly different, the cuisine of these two unique places were amazing. Sicilian food (don’t call it Italian) is fresh and full of flavor and the Sicilians are so incredibly proud of their food. In Georgia we were astonished to stumble on the unique and flavorful cuisine influenced over a thousand years by travelers along the Silk Road.
Best Food Tour – Bologna Italy & T’bilisi Georgia
Not the Bologna of your childhood.
Kinkali dumplings in Georgia
Again it’s a tie. We do a lot of food tours. The best ones include unique hidden places, tidbits of history and insider knowledge, served up with a knowledgeable and humorous guide. I highly recommend both of these tours if you visit Bologna and Tours and the City or T’bilisi with Culinary Backstreets.
Best Cooking Class – Crete Greece and Honorable Mention Koh Chang Thailand
The Crete class was amazing, a family affair in a beautiful new cooking space. With our friends we were welcomed by the family at Veerna’s Kitchen and enjoyed a marvelous experience. We also had a tasty and fun day with Bunny at her Napalai Thai Cooking School in Koh Chang Thailand.
Outdoor oven at Veerna’s Cooking School, Crete
Delicious foods at Napalai Cooking School Koh Chang Thailand
Best Meal – Mother Wolf Las Vegas Nevada USA
Best meal of the year, surprisingly in Las Vegas
We spent a few days in Las Vegas in June, specifically to attend a concert of my husband’s favorite artist Elvis Costello. We were traveling with another couple, and before the concert we enjoyed one of the best meals I have ever had at beautiful restaurant called Mother Wolf. If you visit Las Vegas you must eat there.
Most Unique Food – Tajikistan
Qurutob – delicious
I bet you never heard of Qurutob. I sure hadn’t. But it is the national dish of Tajikistan and it is an acquired taste; dried sour yogurt is rehydrated and mixed with a delicious selection of grilled vegetables, bread and meat. We loved it!
Best Beer – Samarkand Uzbekistan
Sam Craft in Samarkand Uzbekistan
One of our free evenings in Samarkand we went looking for a micro brew pub. My husband has an internal radar for micro brew pubs. And we found Sam Craft. It was worth the search on a rainy night.
Best Wine – T’bilisi Georgia
I tried a lot of wine in T’bilisi. Here enjoying several on my food tour.
I learned while in Georgia that this country is considered the earliest place where wine was made, based on 8000 year old findings of wine making. The Georgian people take this very seriously, and all the wine we had was excellent. Back in the USA we looked for and found some places to purchase delicious Georgian wine…it is now part of our wine cellar.
Culture
Most Authentic Cultural Experience – Kyrgyzstan
Master Eagle Hunter Kyrgyzstan
Yurt Making – not many artisans left. This family welcomed us into their home to learn how it’s done.
We only had four days in Kyrgyzstan, but it was some of the most memorable days of my travels. And two authentic cultural experiences happened on the same day; spending time with a Master Eagle Hunter and a Yurt Building Family. Both these occupations are UNESCO Cultural protected ancient activities. I feel so blessed to have had this opportunity with these people.
Most Amazing Man Made Structure – Matera Italy
Matera Italy was mind blowing – I had never heard of this place that dates back to the Paleolithic period
How to choose the winner when we visited Rome, Barcelona, Athens and amazing Uzbekistan? But we decided on one of the most unique places we have ever seen, an unexpected and new to us city of cave dwellings from thousands of years ago…the remarkable city of Matera. With a history of continuous occupation dating back to the Paleolithic (10th millennium BC), it is renowned for its rock-cut urban core, whose twin cliff side zones are known collectively as the Sassi. If you go to Italy – it’s a must.
Most Incredible Natural Sight – Baobab Alley Madagascar
Remarkable place
I had been dreaming about seeing this place with my own eyes for years….and I was not disappointed. Nature is so amazing. Grateful that Madagascar has protected the Baobab trees.
Best Gardens – Schonbrunn Palace Vienna Austria
The gardens at Schonbrunn Palace
Well the incredible mansion/ Palace (Castle?) of the Hapsburg Dynasty just outside of Vienna was astonishing in itself, but the gardens…Wow. Hands down my favorite of all the gardens we saw this year.
Best Market – Khujand Market Tajikistan and Chorsu Market Tashkent Uzbekistan
This is only one part (the meat part) of Chorsu Market in Tashkent Uzbekistan
I loved this market in Khujand Tajikistan
If you read my blog posts much you know that a good, authentic market is possibly my favorite thing to do in any place we visit. And both of these, Chorsu in Uzbekistan and Khujand Tajikistan were all about the locals finding what they need from meat to produce to cheese and even clothing and shoes. It was perfect.
Best Museum – Azerbaijan Carpet Museum Baku Azerbaijan, Honorable Mention Belvedere Vienna Austria
Hand tying a beautiful wool carpet
The building is designed to look like a rolled up carpet.
We visited dozens of museums over the past year. So it was very hard to pick even two in this category. We considered everything from the amazing Acropolis Museum in Athens to the Gangster Museum in Las Vegas. But our choice for the top two are the Azerbaijan Carpet Museum and the Belvedere Art Museum in Vienna. Though very different both house incredible works of art and are housed in magnificent architecturally unique building.
The exterior at the Belvedere
The Kiss by Gustav Klimt at the Belvedere
Best Walking Tour – Chania Crete & Night tour Baku Azerbaijan
Chania Crete
Baku Azerbaijan
We arrived in both Chania and Baku with not a lot of knowledge about the history (both recent and ancient) of either place. A good walking tour is always helpful in these situations. In Chania our group of six hired a guide who was born and raised in the town, was funny and informative and spoke excellent English. In Baku we did a night tour with five other “new” friends – the city absolutely sparkled at night and we learned some amazing history we would have completely missed without this excellent tour and guide.
Best Overall Historical Site – Athens Greece
Hadrian’s Library
We are so glad we returned to Athens for a longer visit after having a awful one day tour off a cruise ship decades ago. This time we explored this amazing city and all it has from top to bottom. It really is a remarkable place.
Best Performance – Spanish Riding School Vienna Austria and Honorable Mention Elvis Costello Las Vegas Nevada
I did not realize what we were getting into when we went to the Spanish Riding School performance in Vienna but it was unlike any horse performance anywhere in the world. Astonishing. And a wonderful concert in Las Vegas with Elvis Costello deserves an honorable mention.
I have never seen anything like the Spanish Riding School performance in Vienna
Elvis Costello still rocking after all these years
Best One Day Tour – Georgia
Georgia was incredible – this is Gergeti Trinity Church
In T’bilisi we hired a guide to take us to the Gudauri region, several hours outside the city and near the Russian border. This is a popular ski area, and also popular for tourists to hike and enjoy waterfalls and to visit the famous Gergeti Trinity Church. We lucked out with gorgeous weather on our visit…only a week later they got their first snow.
Best Multi-Day Tour – The Five Stans Intrepid Travel
Uzbekistan
After postponing this trip a few times due to the PanDamit, it finally happened for us in 2024. A 28 day tour. We were hesitant if 28 days and five countries would be too much. But thankfully Intrepid Travel made this an exceptional experience with very few bumps along the way. This was our second time using Intrepid and I think they have my loyalty.
Kazakhstan
Best Tour Guide – Svetlana with Intrepid Travel
With Svetlana in Kyrgyzstan
One of the reasons Intrepid has our loyalty is they know what makes a good guide. Patient, smart, empathetic, funny and able to function on no sleep! Our guide in the Stans was Svetlana and she was absolutely remarkable.
Nature
Best Sunrise – Koh Chang Thailand
Koh Chang Sunrise
Every morning with my coffee. It was the best thing about this Airbnb.
Best Sunset – Madagascar
Baobab Alley at sunset
A dream come true in Madagascar being here at sunset.
Best Hike – Zingaro Natural Reserve Sicily and Mount Rainier Washington State
Zingaro Nature Reserve was a short drive from our Airbnb in Scopello Sicily
My favorite place in the world, Mount Rainier National Park, Washington State USA
We hike ALOT – around the world and at home in Washington State. Our favorites this year were very diverse, stunning and inspiring.
Overall Natural Beauty – Madagascar
Hidden treasure everywhere
Madagascar blew my mind. What a place.
Best Wildlife – Madagascar
There just aren’t enough words to adequately describe the wildlife of Madagascar. Photos help.
Chameleons and other reptiles where so beautiful but often camoflaged
Lemurs of all kinds
So beautiful
How beautiful is that?
Best Bird Watching – Madagascar
We have become very interested in birds over the last few years…but even with this interest we never gave much thought to where birds sleep. Or how they sleep. In Madagascar we had the remarkable experience of doing a night walking tour and seeing birds sleeping. And lots of other amazing birds too.
Though we had a lot of rain during February in Sicily we got out and ran the dirt roads on the small peninsula where our cute Airbnb was. Rarely saw a car or another human.
Best Pool or Spa – Caldea Spa Andorra
Well that was a fun day at Caldea Spa in Andorra
We spent two short days in the tiny country of Andorra that straddles France and Spain. Our favorite thing we did was enjoy a full day at the famous Caldea Spa.
Weather
Hottest Day – Madagascar
It was great to get out on the water on this extreme hot and dry day
Most Humid – Thailand
Some days the humidity was oppressive
Coldest Day – Border Crossing between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
Icy cold wind greeted us as we crossed the border on foot between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
Wettest Day – Bologna Italy
It was raining buckets but luckily Bologna’s famous porticoes kept us mostly dry
Windiest – Athens Greece and San Marino
We nearly blew off the mountain top of tiny San Marino
There were people up here in shorts and tshirt…terribly unprepared and turning blue.
Travel
Longest Travel Day – Koh Chang Thailand to Bologna Italy
Tiny Trat Airport
Thirty four hours door to door – this day included a van, a ferry, three flights and a taxi. A total distance of 5971 miles. Thank goodness we have airport lounge privileges. Our longest single flight was Dubai to Seattle at 7410 miles; but a mere 18 hours door to door.
Shortest Flight – Trat to Bangkok
A quick flight covering 161 miles go us close to our destination of Koh Chang, but we also had to take a ferry.
Best Airport – Changi Singapore
Its worth it to visit Singapore just to see this airport.
One of the best and most beautiful airports in the world – Changi Singapore
Worst Airport – Morondava Madagascar
This place wasn’t the smallest airport we have ever been in, but it nearly was. Departure board was a white board written in colored marker
Miscellaneous
Expensive But Worth It – Five Stans Tour with Intrepid Travel
Of course a 28 day tour covering five countries isn’t going to be cheap. We had cars, planes, trains, vans, subways, all of our lodging, much of our food and the most amazing guide included in Intrepid Travels Five Stans Tour. For two people the cost was $13,530 dollars – just under $500 per day. I don’t regret it.
Each Country was amazing. This is Kyrgyzstan
This is Turkmenistan
The Ouch Award – Car Crash in Yerevan Armenia
It doesn’t look that serious. And it would not have been if we had been wearing seat belts.
A difficult lesson was learned when we got into a taxi that did not have seat belts. It wasn’t the first time in our travels where we have encountered this. We should have refused…but we didn’t and five minutes later the crazy driver crashed. At first we thought we were okay, just shaken. But the next day Arne had some serious and frightening symptoms. A trip to the emergency room where he was diagnosed with a concussion. He did not have to stay in the hospital but he did have to lay low for the following two weeks, causing us to change our itinerary to give him time to recover before we began the Stans tour. We are very grateful it wasn’t worse. Seat belts. Always.
Best Photo of the Year
With 24 countries its hard to choose which photo is the best….not to mention I am obsessive about photo taking. But for 2024 we choose these – a collection of Baobab Alley Madagascar. Seeing this was a lifelong dream of mine. And it was just as amazing as I had imagined.
Baobab Alley
Wildflowers Baobab Alley
Sunset at Baobab Alley
Eighth Annual World Travel Awards 2024
There you have it. The best of the best of My Fab Fifties Life travel of 2024. Amazing, memorable and unique experiences with new cultures and fantastic experiences around the world. What a grand adventure it is. We sure hope you will consider visiting some of these places and enjoying some of these unique experiences too – the eighth annual world travel awards 2024. Please let us know if you do visit any of our suggestions.
High above Bovilla Reservoir in Albania. That road to get here was interesting.
What next?
As I post this annual awards I am on the island of Maui – the first stop of our 2025 adventure. Over the next year we will visit anywhere from 8-12 more countries. Those include the Cook Islands, Australia, Singapore, Bhutan, France, Luxembourg, USA and Canada – with others still in the works.
Friendly and docile chameleons are my new favorite
It takes me weeks to write this post so I hope you have enjoyed the Eighth Annual World Travel Awards 2024. My goal is to inspire you. The world is so amazing…not everyone is going to want to go to places like Kyrgyzstan. I understand that. But I hope you have learned something and perhaps are motivated to step beyond your comfort zone. We hope you will continue to follow us around the globe, comment, pin and share this post so others can follow as well. Thank you and stay fabulous. This travel blog wouldn’t be possible without all of you.
Beautiful memorial in Novi Sad Serbia remembering the 4000 civilians murdered by the Hungarian forces during WWII
More From the Past
If you would like to see our Travel Awards from the past, you can click on any of these links; 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, and 2017.
HAPPY NEW YEAR OF TRAVEL!!! We appreciate it when you comment, share and pin our blog posts – especially this one!! The Eighth Annual World Travel Awards 2024. Stay tuned! Lots of adventures ahead! Thank you.
Time to go. After a wonderful (but wet) two and a half months back in the USA with family and friends it’s now time for us to continue year nine of the Grand Adventure. We have enjoyed our time back “home” but we are looking forward to warmer climates, returning to some favorite places as well as some brand new adventures. So for all of you who have been asking, let me tell you – Here We go – The Grand Adventure.
Circumnavigate the Globe
Around the world we go
I don’t think this has ever happened before, but this itinerary has us traveling westbound the entire time. Starting in Seattle January 16 and circling the earth returning to Seattle May 4th. Our westward journey has us visiting seven countries (three brand new to us) over the next four months. Our itinerary is below…I hope you will follow along. Here we Go – The Grand Adventure.
Maui
First stop the island of Maui
Returning to Maui, one of our favorite places in the world, we will spend three weeks relaxing and soaking up the sun in Kihei, Maui, Hawaii USA. We have visited Maui many times, so this time we will focus on golf and hiking. We don’t plan to do much of anything as far as touristy sites. We just love the beauty of Maui, despite how expensive it can be.
Rarotonga, Cook Islands
A new to us country!
A new to us destination, we are looking forward to a week at a resort on the island of Rarotonga. We loved our visit a few years ago to French Polynesia and we thought this time we would try another South Pacific location. It’s very easy to get from Hawaii to the Cook Island, and also easy to continue on from there to our next destination of Australia.
Melbourne, Australia
We fell in love with Melbourne last year
This will be our third visit to Australia, one of our favorite countries in the world. It is a huge and diverse place and our previous experiences have been very positive. This time, we will spend an entire month in the city of Melbourne with a couple road a trips planned from there. It will be summer in Australia – and likely hot – but we are ready to enjoy a longer stay in this beautiful city, the largest city in Australia.
Singapore
A brief visit
Singapore is a international hub, and we have passed through this beautiful city/state twice before. This time we only have two quick nights, but it’s enough to see a couple of sites and eat some of the amazing food before our flight to…
Bhutan
Thrilled to be on my way to Bhutan
Long on my dreaming of places, I am absolutely thrilled to finally be visiting the unique and beautiful country of Bhutan. It’s taken us a while to get to this destination…partly due to it’s remote location and also due to how expensive it can be. But we are ready to tick this long awaited destination off of our wish-list with a private nine day tour.
Bordeaux, France
Lots of wine in my future
We love France but the region of Bordeaux has eluded us on all our previous visits. This time we have rented an Airbnb for an entire month and look forward to getting to know this region well…and of course drink some wine along the way. When we leave Bordeaux we plan to take a train to Paris, with several days along the way in Lyon, Dijon and then finally…
Luxembourg
Somehow I have skipped over Luxembourg in the past
When I look at a map of Western Europe and where I have been there is a little tiny hole…that hole is Luxembourg. Time to tick that one off too. Luxembourg City looks so beautiful, my kind of fairy tale European destination and we have the time so lets see it. Compact and easy to maneuver, it will be a great way to end our trip. But first a stop in the City of Lights.
Paris
Beautiful Paris
Of course we can’t leave France without a couple of days in the beautiful city of Paris. Spring in Paris…what’s not to love? We look forward to visiting the newly reopened Notre Dame, visiting our friends, and of course…eating!! Then we catch a flight from CDG back to Seattle, completing circumnavigating the globe. Westward!
Thanks for reading my post Here We Go – The Grand Adventure. And thanks for all your continued interest in our travel adventures. I am looking forward to this itinerary which offers a lot of relaxation and adventure too. Longer stays than last year’s travel and I like that. Perfect. But, it’s likely I will not have a travel post every Friday…but I will post as often as I can. Meanwhile DO NOT MISS our annual Travel Awards blog post for 2024. You can read it on Friday January 24th. It’s an annual favorite and a must read.
Here we go – The Grand Adventure continues. Buckle up!
We love it when you comment, pin and share our blog posts. Thank you so much! See last week’s post Top Travel Blog Posts of 2024 here.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.AcceptRejectRead More
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
