'I travel to commune with nature in a way I can't at home. I don't live in the most beautiful part of the world, but even if I did I'm not sure that I'd truly see it in the grind of everyday life. Travel elevates my senses like nothing else can: It opens my mind and heart to the beauty of the ordinary and the extraordinary. 

In my mind, there is nothing more extraordinary than the Swiss Alps. I love gathering up my tour members and taking them on my favorite hike from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg in the Berner Oberland. Praying to the weather gods, we ask the clouds to pass as we take the short cable car ride from Wengen to Mannlichen. The weather gods show mercy on us and once at the top, my tour members gasp at the striking view from 7,317 feet. They stop to take pictures of one another that are sure to land on next year's Christmas card. I stop to explain the map in front of us before we begin our journey to Kleine Scheidegg some 2.5 miles away. My advice - "Days like this are rare in the Swiss Alps. Slow down and make the most of it."

I usually end up somewhere in the middle between the speed demons and the ones who take my advice to heart. While being cordial, I try to steal a little silence by myself to take it all in. Although I've seen this view a million times, it still takes my breath away when I let it. As we get closer to the scenic vista, the outlines of the Eiger, Monch and Jungrau come more into focus and I remember why these views have drawn brave mountain climbers and Romantics like Tolkein. I love watching my youngest tour members gazing at the majestic beauty in front of them - Frolicking in the grass like Heidi once did. They can't quite grasp it, but I pray they understand how lucky they are to witness it at such a young age. 

After stopping for a hot chocolate at my favorite mountain hut, I bid my tour members farewell and begin the train journey back down to Lauterbrunnen.  As the cogwheel train pulls us down the steep slopes, I put my camera away and let my senses take over. I am keenly aware of the beauty laid before me - The extraordinary of the mountain peaks and the ordinary of the chopped firewood perfectly stacked as only the Swiss can. 

I travel to commune with nature. What about you? 
​

Rick Steves' says that travel is recess and we need it. In this world of overwhelming responsibility, I believe we could all use a little more recess in our lives. Travel provides a new context: A reason to say yes when we would normally say no. A reason to shed our worries for awhile and live with abandon. A reason to release our inner child. 

One of the Rick Steves' tours I lead travels through the lush Bavarian landscape where King Ludwig chose to build his infamous Neuschwanstein Castle. It is a marvel that draws hoards of tourists each year, but the alpine slide that sits in the shadow of Ludwig's boyhood fantasy often elicits more thrills from my tour members than the castle itself. 

Within sight of the Tegelberg Luge, the anticipation level in my tour bus always increases as my tour members squeal with excitement. I explain how the luge works - "Forward fast, back brake." I ask them to repeat this with me numerous times as I conjure up memories of bruised and battered speed demons that didn't heed my advice. 

Once off the coach, I buy the tickets while my tour members huddle at the entrance like a bunch of school kids: Watching the sled-like go carts being dragged to the top of a mountain and then released down a metal course that twists and turns like only a serpent can. One by one, I scan their tickets as they pass through the rickety turnstile and the gruff attendant with a cigarette dangling dangerously from his mouth. "Forward fast, back brake," I yell one more time as they begin their journey. 

One by one, they make their way to the end the course - Always more cautious the first time than the second. They tell stories of slowpokes and near misses as their fellow tour members congratulate them on a good run. It's a joy to watch because I know these people work hard and rarely have time to do such childish things, but I consider it a privilege to encourage such behavior. 

I travel to release my inner child. What about you? 

Photo by Rick Steves' Europe

I travel to allow myself the opportunity to do things I'd never consider at home. I travel to shed the "shoulds" I put on myself and experience the pure joy and exhilaration of new places, new people and new experiences. This often means getting out of my comfort zone which for me, and most Americans I know, includes getting naked in public.

The first time I visited Baden Baden, Germany, a town famous for its mineral waters that drew Roman emperors, I was intrigued by the Friedrichsbad Roman Baths. Our guide, Rolinka, described them with such elegance and a gentle nudge to shed our modesty and bare it all. I was terrified of running into other people on my tour so I timed my entry to coincide right when my group would likely be sitting down for dinner. Luckily, our tour arrived in Baden Baden on a day when the sexes were separated except for one mixed area for those extra brave souls willing to share a pool, topped by a dome and surround by Roman statues, with those of the opposite sex..

I paid my entrance fee, put on my electronic bracelet and left everything in my locker - Everything! It was a harrowing experience at first, but after moving through the various rooms - Dry-heat, shower, warm pool, repeat - I began to relax and realize that no one really seemed to care whether I was wearing clothes or not. In fact, it was surprisingly freeing. After a dip in the cold plunge pool and a massage that ended with a brisk scrubbing and a slap on the behind, I was ushered into a quiet room and wrapped in a warm blanket to ponder my experience. 

When I was young, my dad often encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone. Shedding my clothes in a public space is likely not what he had in mind, but I do believe that travel naturally pushes us to do things we might never consider a home. I see it in my tour members time and time again - Whether it is paragliding over the Swiss Alps or simply eating snails for the first time, travel frees us from the "shoulds" of home and calls us to new places, new experiences and new ways of doing things. 

I travel to get out of my comfort zone. What about you? 

Why do we travel? This is a question Rick Steves recently posed in a new episode designed to help us reflect not on the how, but the why of travel. In the midst of this pandemic, I find it particularly therapeutic to consider what fuels my wanderlust - My insatiable desire to explore the world far behind the confines of home. 

I travel to gain a broader perspective of the world. I travel to open my mind and my heart to other cultures and different ways of doing things. I travel to understand, connect and learn. I travel to see my own country through the eyes of others. I travel to become a better global citizen of the world. I travel because staying home invariably leads to believing the American way is the only way and I want more for myself and the world. On this inauguration day, I celebrate my American citizenship and the freedom that brings. I also celebrate my global citizenship in this beautiful world full of cultures, languages and ideas vastly different from my own and I eagerly await the opportunity to stand on foreign soil again. In the meantime, I'll explore why I travel here. Please join me and leave a comment. 

Check out Rick's "Why We Travel" episode HERE 

I've only done one cruise and it was FAR from my favorite vacation, but I'm intrigued by the idea of a sailing cruise. Sailing cruises like the ones offered by Star Clippers are more causal/less structured, cater to a much smaller audience and therefore don't have to dock in big ports like larger ships. Essentially, this is a cruise for non-cruise people!

​What? Ships vary in size, but Star Clippers ships hold from 170-230 guests. Service is top-notch with a 2:1 staff to guest ratio and there are plenty of on board activities to keep everyone busy. 

Why?: This an ideal choice for multi-generational families or couples/solo travelers looking for a more relaxed/casual atmosphere. Big groups celebrating a special occasion would also benefit from the minimal logistics involved in a sailing cruise. This experience is tailor made for well-traveled individuals looking for something off the beaten path away from the tourist crowds. 

Where?: Caribbean, Mediterranean, Asia, Panama Canal & beyond

Questions? Comments? Looking for a sailing cruise? Post on my Facebook feed or message me. 

Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!

Barge cruising has always appealed to me. Maybe it's the slow pace, the gourmet food and wine or the private nature of a small luxury hotel barge. Unknown to many, these are the perfect fit for a multi-generational trip or a group of friends celebrating a special occasion. 

​What? Barges vary in size and can hold from 4 to 22 passengers. Most have a small crew (of 4-6 people) to take care of your every need - Cooking, cleaning, piloting the barge and offering chauffeured tours of surrounding sights. There is the option to do a cheaper self-drive barge as well. 

Why?: There are 2 paces on a barge - Slow and slower. This kind of vacation is meant for those looking to spend quality time with their traveling companions without the hassle of a big cruise ship or the logistics of a multi-city vacation. It can also be a good option for those with physical limitations. 

Where?: Most barges cruise in canals throughout France, but barge options also exist in Holland, Ireland, England, Scotland and Germany.

When?: Barge season is mid-April to late October.

Questions? Comments? Looking for a barge cruise? Post on my Facebook feed or message me. 

Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!

​Austria often gets overlooked, but there are SO many hidden gems nestled in this tiny country. After spending two weeks updating the Rick Steves' Vienna guidebook this summer, I feel pretty confident in recommending it for your next vacation. 

​Why Austria?: The Hapsburgs' left plenty behind to keep even the most avid tourist busy (especially in Vienna), but it's the Austrian countryside where the real gemutlichkeit (which translated means coziness) can be found. The Austrians are said to be a bit more laid back than their German neighbors and they love the great outdoors as much as a good cafe. 

Where?: Austria, Germany and Switzerland make a great two week vacation, but with more time in Austria I'd pair the cities of Vienna and Salzburg with smaller towns like Halstatt (touristy & crowded) and regions like the Tirol or the Danube Valley. 

When?: Austria makes a great place for a winter ski vacation or a summer holiday. It's beautiful any time of year, but I prefer early October when the fall colors appear and the strum (young wine) and onion cake are traditionally served. You can almost feel the excitement in the air as the winemakers begin their fall harvest. 

What?: Here are a few ideas of things to do in Austria with kids:

​Salzburg - Hohensalzburg Fortress & Sound of Music Bike Tour

Vienna - Schonbrunn Palace, Spanish Riding School & Haus der Musik

Wachau Valley (Danube) - If your family loves to cycle then you can't miss this stop. Make your home base in Melk and ride along the Danube to Krems. The logistics here can be a bit difficult so do your research ahead of time. 

How?: Germany and Austria are easily doable by train, but if visiting the countryside consider renting a car. 

Questions? Comments? Looking for a hotel or a family-friendly guide in Austria? Post on my Facebook feed or message me. 

Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!

Many families shy away from Amsterdam for obvious reasons, but there are so many MORE reasons why it's a good fit for your next family vacation:

Why Amsterdam?: It's a fairly compact city with great public transportation, an amazing park and plenty of top notch museums. More than anything, the architecture and canals create for an ambiance that is unique to Amsterdam. On a sunny day, there is nothing more fun than sitting at a canal side cafe watching the young locals cruise their "backstreets" with a Dutch beer in hand.

Where?: I prefer canal side accommodations on one of the major canals - Prinsengracht, Keizergracht or the Herengracht. One of my clients recently stayed at The Toren along the Keizergracht and had a great experience. Be aware that hotels in Amsterdam can be VERY expensive (especially when there is a conference in town) so do your research ahead of time. 

When?: I prefer Amsterdam in July and August when Italy is sweltering; however, I would travel to Amsterdam in the spring to visit the Keukenhof park where 7 million tulip bulbs bloom each year - Open mid-March through mid-May.

How long?: I'd spend at least 4 nights in Amsterdam. With just over a week to spare, consider linking Amsterdam and Paris together by train - The Thalys train takes just a little over three hours. Haarlem makes for a quaint home base for those that don't mind the 20 minute ride to Amsterdam Central by train. 

What?: Here are a few ideas on things to do in Amsterdam with kids: 

- Vondel Park - I'm a sucker for big parks and this is one of the best. It's expansive with plenty of green grass for frolicking, multiple playgrounds and an open-air theater. 

- Rijks Museum - Recently renovated, the architecture alone will blow you away. This is one of my favorite museums in all of Europe and it is best done with a local guide. With short attention spans and so much to see, a guide can be worth every penny. Although not 100% necessary, it's a good idea to purchase tickets in advance online. 

- Van Gogh Museum - This is a fairly small museum compared to the RIjks and the helpful children's audio guide and scavenger hunt make it a bit more palatable for kids. Check the website for children's workshops held every weekend. 

- Anne Frank House - This is a must-see sight for everyone who visits Amsterdam so purchase your tickets online well in advance. Those with younger children should be aware that there are steep stairs and strollers must be left at the information desk. 

- NEMO Science Center - This hands on museums, shaped like a ship, is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages. Plan on spending at least a half day here. 

- Canal boat ride - There are plenty of touristy companies offering canal boat rides, but I prefer paying a bit more and hiring a local guide to do a private tour by boat. This is a great activity upon arrival in Amsterdam. 

How?: The Netherlands has great public transportation options. In my opinion, cars and parking can make traveling more stressful so I stick to public transportation when possible.

Questions? Comments? Looking for a hotel or a family-friendly guide in Amsterdam? Post on my Facebook feed or message me. 

Stay tuned tomorrow for more travel inspiration!

Yes.  I get paid to travel, but... It wasn't always that way.  I had a normal job doing normal things and quite frankly... I got bored.  I wanted more and I knew the only way more was going to come was if I went after it myself.  So, I flew to the Seattle area to convince the folks at Rick Steves' Europe to hire me and eventually... They did!  I haven't looked back for a second.
 
Now I am embarking on really starting my own travel consulting business to keep me busy while I am home.  Things are a bit tight financially and I am fighting the demons of worry and self-doubt, but I know that I only have one life to live and I want to get it right.  I don't need a new car, a house, or even cable - I just want to see the world!
 
I realize that I took things to the extreme a few years ago, when I decided to quit my teaching job and take a job as a tour guide with Rick Steves' Europe.  Maybe that is a bit of a stretch for you, but... I bet you could take at least one BIG trip this year.  

Have your own set of excuses regarding why you can't travel in 2017?  Let's talk!
 
#1 - I don't have enough money to travel
 
This is probably the number one excuse I hear from my many friends who are envious of my travels, but claim that travel is not within their reach.  There is a common misconception that travel can be expensive (and it can be), but... My bigger question is: What are you spending your money on now?  Do you have to have the latest and greatest?  Do you eat out a lot?  How often do you need a Starbucks fix?  These are all small things, but they add up quickly and can easily eat up your (hidden) travel money.  
 
The good news!  You CAN afford to travel.  Start now by setting up a travel savings account and have some money drafted from your paycheck every month.  It sounds simple, but it adds up quickly and pretty soon you'll have enough of a cushion to get your travel dreams off the ground. 
 
If your budget is tight, let that factor into your decision about where to travel - Spend more time in cheaper countries (like Germany) and less time in more expensive countries (like Switzerland). Choose small pensions and B&Bs over expensive hotels and picnic instead of eating al fresco. This tip alone (and a little self-control) can save you a TON Of money.

Traveling on a budget also means more opportunities to interact with the local culture so it's a win-win! No excuses!
 
#2 - I don't have enough time off
 
Most Germans get 5 weeks of paid vacation starting out. I realize that's a foreign concept to most Americans, but utilize what you have and make the most of it. I meet SO many people each year that wait until they retire to travel and their number one comment is always "I wish I started sooner when I was in better shape". Travel can be grueling and if you are waiting for "enough" time to travel, it will never come... Enough is a lifetime and I'm still not sure that you could see everything.
 
Tomorrow is never guaranteed.  I've had several tour members that faced a reality check like cancer, a heart attack or a stroke. Things like this are scary and are a stark reminder that we aren't invincible, that we won't live forever and that we need to do NOW what we say we'll do "one day".
 
If you are going to spend the money on a plane ticket to Europe, I recommend two weeks.  If that's not feasible go for one week and make one major city your home base (like Paris or London) and consider a few side trips to give you a taste of the European countryside.

A week is enough to give you a taste of Europe and leave you wanting more. No excuses!
 
#3 - It isn't safe to travel right now
 
Every year before I jet off to Europe people (including my mom) say "be careful over there". The perception is that Europe is now full of terrorists and refugees lurking on every corner.  The picture the media paints is simply not true and those of us that choose to stay home in order to stay safe are fooling ourselves.  
 
Each year when my European friends come over to the US for the Rick Steves' guide summit, their friends warn them not to go near schools or movie theaters because that is where people in America get shot.  That seems outlandish to us, but... That is what the media portrays and it's easy to turn a few isolated incidents into fear. 
 
Don't let fear keep you home this year.  Know that the world is full of mostly good people living everyday lives like you and me.  They might speak a strange language and do things a little differently, but all in all travel breeds understanding (NOT fear) and I think our world could use a little more of that right about now.
 
No excuses! Start making your travel plans now and pass this post along to all your friends who keep saying they want to travel "one day".
 

If you're anything like me, you've dreamt of a European Christmas - Ice skating underneath the Eiffel Tower, frolicking through Germany's Christmas markets drinking glüwein or eating cheese fondue in the snow covered Swiss Alps. Maybe those dreams aren't quite attainable (at least this year), but incorporating a few European traditions is a good reminder for kids and adults that the birth of Jesus is celebrated in many different ways all over the world.
 
#1 - Decorate Your Tree on Christmas Eve
 
In the US, it often seems like stores are setting up for Christmas just as the Halloween costumes are being put away.  Why not take a little pressure off and build anticipation for the big day?  Many German families leave their Christmas trees bare until Christmas Eve and spend the day decorating with ornaments and handmade garland.  The days of stringing popcorn and cranberries together seem like a far cry from our more commercialized Christmas, but why not bring some of those old traditions back. 
 
Disclaimer - Many Swiss still use real candles to decorate their Christmas trees - A tradition unfathomable to most Americans and applauded by most fire departments. 
 
#2 - Leave Your Shoes Out for St. Nicholas 
 
Many European children celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 6 by leaving their shoes out for St. Nicholas to fill with a generous helping of sweets, fruits, and small toys.  Every country takes a little freedom when it comes to celebrating St. Nicholas Day - In some countries he arrives in the middle of November visiting schools/homes to find out if children have been good.  In other places, he comes in the middle of the night to find carrots and hay along with children's wish list.  This year take a little freedom of your own and have the kids leave their empty shoes by the fireplace in hopes that St. Nicholas (a little late for the wish list) will arrive with some goodies just the right size for their shoes.  Only the smartest kids leave their boots!
 
#3 - Attend Church at Midnight
 
In Catholic Italy attending midnight mass is almost a prerequisite.  Extended families usually gather for their "cenone" (BIG meal) on Christmas Eve and attend midnight mass together.  Even as Italy becomes more and more secular, attending mass on Christmas Eve is very much a part of their tradition. There is something very special about staying up late and celebrating the wee hours of Christmas morning with those you love most.
 
#4 - Break Out the Fondue Pot 
 
Depending upon your age, you probably have a fondue pot sitting in your cabinet that hasn't been touched in a while.  Why not break it out this year and celebrate Christmas Swiss style? My groups love eating Swiss fondue any time of the year, but the Swiss really consider it a party dish to be enjoyed among friends and family. Now your views might not be quite as dramatic, but a pot of bubbling hot Swiss fondue on a cold Christmas Eve night is sure to warm your heart and generate some great Christmas memories.

Any other ideas of how to incorporate a little of Europe into your Christmas season?  Please share in the comment section below!