Category: Travel

Trip Overview

This trip was part exploration, part inspiration. At the time we booked it, we were living in Colorado and thinking seriously about relocating. Funny enough, life moved faster than expected—by the time the trip rolled around, I had already made the move. This journey became a deeper introduction to the region, a mix of discovery, downtime, and some really cozy moments.

We explored the Olympic Peninsula, ferried to the San Juan Islands, and wrapped things up in the tiny town of Index—a spot that’s since become a repeat retreat for us.

Most Memorable Moments

Walking among giants in the Quinault Rainforest – Towering trees, dense green moss, and that deep Pacific Northwest mist made it feel like we stepped into a different world. It was humbling in the best way.

Scoot Coupe cruising in Friday Harbor – We rented a little three-wheeled scooter and zipped around San Juan Island. Silly, scenic, and so much fun. Friday Harbor itself had this laid-back island energy that was instantly calming.

Discovering Index – Tucked into the Cascades, Index is all towering cliffs and peaceful vibes. We stayed at the Index Inn, ate at their incredible on-site restaurant, and fell in love with the slower rhythm. We’ve been back multiple times since.

Coastal walk at Ruby Beach – Driftwood, sea stacks, tide pools—it’s one of those beaches that feels both dramatic and gentle. A perfect place to stretch your legs and breathe in that briny air.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Rain Forest Resort Village – Rustic, peaceful, and surrounded by giants. Wouldn’t stay here again.
• Tucker House Inn, Friday Harbor (Aug 21–23) – Convenient base for exploring San Juan Island. Wouldn’t stay here again.
• Bush House Inn – Index – Simple stay, but the vibe and people are wonderful. We’ve stayed many more times since this trip.

Transportation

• We rented a car in Seattle and drove the loop, with ferry rides out to the islands. Classic PNW road trip vibes—foggy mornings, forested highways, and the occasional scenic detour.

Notable Food

• Restaurant at the Bush House Inn, Index – Delicious and atmospheric.
• Kabab Korner in Monroe – A surprise win on the drive.

Activities

• Hiking rainforest trails
• Exploring Ruby Beach
• Island scoot coupe rides
• Relaxing in Index
• Boeing factory tour!

Tips for Travelers

• Book ferries ahead if you’re bringing a car.
• Expect mist, rain, and moments of unexpected beauty.
• Take your time—this region is best experienced slowly.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip felt like a soft landing into a new chapter. It wasn’t flashy or overly planned—it was peaceful, curious, and cozy. From misty rainforests to rocky coastlines and tiny towns, Washington revealed itself bit by bit. We came to explore and left with a sense of home.

Trip Overview

Japan in the fall is… well, iconic. I went with my parents—my dad’s first time in Asia and my mom’s first in Japan—and we took a route that hit both the big city lights and the quiet, golden temples. Tokyo buzzed, Kyoto glowed, Hakone steamed, and Kanazawa surprised us in all the right ways.

It was a trip full of contrasts: tranquil onsens and neon crossings, hidden gardens and vending machines everywhere, serene temples and pirate ships on mountain lakes. But what tied it all together was the season—the crisp air, changing leaves, and moments of stillness in the midst of it all.

Most Memorable Moments

Kanazawa’s Under-the-Radar Magic – This city quickly became a favorite. It was less touristy but packed with culture—tea houses, samurai districts, beautiful gardens. It gave us space to breathe and explore at our own rhythm.

Evenings at the Onsen – After long travel days, slipping into a quiet, steaming onsen felt like heaven. Those peaceful, meditative evenings became anchors of the trip.

The Tiny Fish Incident – Our traditional Japanese hotel breakfast in Kanazawa included a little bowl of teeny-tiny fish—eyes and all. A surprise, and still a family laugh we bring up.

Chasing Mt. Fuji in Hakone – While cruising Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, Mt. Fuji started peeking through the clouds. At the dock, we sprinted to find a taxi (nearly impossible—no Uber and only one dispatch number, all in Japanese). After wrangling a ride to a beautiful overlook, we were rewarded with a breathtaking Fuji view… and then had to figure out how to get back. With lots of pointing and a kind stranger’s help, we made it. Worth every ounce of chaos.

Kyoto’s Golden Light – Walking through temple grounds in our rented Kimonos surrounded by autumn leaves, especially late in the afternoon, felt like stepping into a dream. The colors, the history… it was everything I imagined Japan could be.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Tokyo: Shibuya Granbell Hotel
• Kanazawa: Soki Kanazawa – probably the most pleasant of the trip
• Kyoto: RAKURO 京都 by THE SHARE HOTELS
• Hakone: Hakone Kowakien Miyamafurin

Notable Food

• Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka – conveyer belt sushi!
• Ippudo – Ginza for excellent ramen
• Danki Tonkatsu

Activities

• つば屋庖丁店 | CUTLERY TSUBAYA for knife shopping!
• Rainbow Karaoke Shibuya – favorite karaoke place!
• Onsens (every chance I got)
• Gardens in Kanazawa and Kyoto
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Fushimi Inari Shrine at sunrise
• Hakone pirate cruise & Mt. Fuji views
• Tokyo’s wild contrasts: Meiji Shrine one moment, Shibuya Crossing the next

Tips for Travelers

Japan rewards mindfulness. Slow down, observe, listen.

Brush up on basic Japanese phrases—locals are kind, but English isn’t guaranteed.

Onsens are a must. Embrace the etiquette and enjoy the stillness.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip was one for the memory vault. From onsens to chasing down a view of Mt. Fuji, it was a journey built on beauty, culture, and togetherness. Japan has a way of wrapping you up in calm and wonder at the same time. It’s a place I already can’t wait to return to.

Trip Overview

This was my first time in both Singapore and Taiwan, and I was excited to experience a new side of Asia—something fast-paced but also rich in local culture and everyday surprises. The trip was quick, but packed with vibrant moments: food tours, night markets, towering gardens, and tea breaks that somehow slowed time down in the middle of a bustling city.

From the ultra-green skyline of Singapore to the maze-like energy of Taipei, this was a great trip.

Most Memorable Moments

Food Tour in Singapore – Wandering through hawker centers, learning about regional dishes, and tasting everything from Michelin Star noodles to kaya toast. Food is how Singapore tells its story—and this tour was like reading it cover to cover.

Exploring The Jewel at Changi Airport – I got to the airport early on purpose just to check this out, and it was absolutely worth it. Giant indoor waterfall, rooftop gardens, shops, and dining—it felt more like a theme park than an airport. One of the coolest airport experiences I’ve ever had.

Night Market in Taipei – A sensory overload in the best way. Neon signs, sizzling food, the murmur of crowds, and me with a cold beer, trying bite after bite of unfamiliar, delicious things.

Dinner on top of Marina Bay Sands – Iconic skyline, warm evening air, and a killer meal.

Getting Lost in Taipei’s Malls – I wasn’t ready for ten-story + malls. Navigating escalators and levels with mostly Chinese signage, I got turned around more than once, but that’s part of the adventure. It made the quiet tea shops I eventually found even more satisfying.

Singapore’s Garden in the Sky Vibe – I didn’t expect the city to feel so green. Plants wrapped around buildings, lush parks in every direction, and one of the easiest-to-navigate transit systems I’ve ever used.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Momentus Hotel Alexandra (Singapore) – A well-located hotel with good access to MRT lines and great nearby food.
• No. 106, Section 2, Xinyi Rd (Taipei) – Solid location in Da’an District, walkable to tea houses and local eats.

Transportation

• Flew via Tokyo with ANA to Singapore, then EVA Air to Taipei, and United through San Francisco back home. Long haul, but worth it.
• Singapore’s MRT was flawless—clean, fast, and intuitive.
• Taipei’s metro was also efficient, with great access to local neighborhoods and markets.

Activities

• Singapore: Gardens by the Bay, Marina Bay Sands, Chinatown
• Taipei: Night markets, tea shops, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial, endless urban wandering
• Plenty of spontaneous detours and accidental finds, too

Tips for Travelers

Don’t underestimate how massive some of Asia’s malls can be. Bring your spatial awareness.

Singapore can be pricey, but hawker food keeps it affordable and cultural.

Don’t rush Taipei—let yourself get lost a bit.

English signage is common in Singapore, less so in Taipei—download offline maps and translation tools ahead of time.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip was fast but unforgettable. Each city had its own rhythm—Singapore’s was clean and efficient, Taipei’s was loud and layered. Both offered moments that felt uniquely immersive. Whether it was sipping oolong on a quiet street or watching city lights flicker from 57 stories up, this journey was a refreshing reminder of how much of the world I still want to see.

Trip Overview

This was a first for me—my first time on the Big Island (I’d only been to Honolulu before), and it ended up being one of the most well-balanced, relationship-rich trips I’ve taken in a while. I traveled with my mom and some close family friends, and together we explored the full range of what the Big Island has to offer—from black sand beaches to misty rainforest hikes to snorkeling with manta rays under the stars.

The Big Island isn’t about rushing—it’s about slowing down. Letting nature and good company work their magic.

Most Memorable Moments

Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay Marine Life Conservation District – Easily one of the best snorkeling spots I’ve ever been to. Crystal-clear water, colorful reef, and marine life that just keeps coming. It felt like dropping into a whole other world.

The Island’s Contrasts – We’d spend one day on a tropical beach and the next walking through a chilly rainforest. That contrast—sunny, breezy coastlines and misty, cool mountains—made the island feel like multiple worlds in one.

Night Manta Ray Snorkel – A surreal, bucket-list experience. Floating in the dark ocean with massive manta rays gliding just below—graceful, alien, and unforgettable.

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach – A rare sight, and a rugged trek. We tried to hike it… which we don’t recommend. Pay for a ride unless you really want a dusty, sun-blasted hike. But once there? Totally worth it.

Vanilla Farm Visit – A low-key but super pleasant stop. We learned about vanilla cultivation and just enjoyed the peaceful setting.

Shave Ice in Waikōloa – We grabbed shave ice from Original Big Island Shave Ice Co, Inc., and it was next level. Sweet, cold, colorful happiness in a cup. Pro-tip: only go for “natural” flavors.

Unplugged Evenings – Some of my favorite memories were around the table, playing cards, laughing with people I love.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Friend’s home in Kona
• Kilauea Lodge & 19-3820 Old Volcano Rd (Volcano area) – Rustic and perfectly placed for exploring Volcanoes National Park.

Activities

• Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay
• Night manta ray snorkel
• Visit to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach
• Volcanoes National Park
• Vanilla farm tour
• Beach time + rainforest walks

Tips for Travelers

Don’t underestimate the sun (or the hike to Green Sand Beach).

The island is big—plan for driving.

Go slow. Make time for beach books and card games.

Book your time in Volcano in advance—it’s a popular one!

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip was less about ticking boxes and more about soaking in every moment—whether underwater, deep in a rainforest, or just laughing with loved ones over a game of cards. The Big Island showed me a slower relaxing vacation. I’ll absolutely be back.

Trip Overview

This was more than just a vacation—it was a trip that fed the soul. For over two weeks, we explored the natural wonders of New Zealand, with a brief (but bucket-list-worthy) hop to Sydney, Australia. What made it truly unforgettable wasn’t just the scenery, but the feeling—a mix of environmental reverence, deep calm, and a culture rooted in kindness and care.

Whether we were soaking in geothermal waters, landing on a glacier, or floating on a coal-powered boat with a beer in hand, New Zealand had a way of making every moment feel grounded and awe-inspiring.

Most Memorable Moments

Landing on a Glacier by Helicopter – This was the definition of a “peak New Zealand” moment—quite literally. Standing on top of a glacier surrounded by jagged peaks and absolute silence was something I’ll never forget.

Milford Sound Lodge Stay – Remote, peaceful, and unbelievably beautiful. Between the epic drive, the quiet setting, and the amazing breakfast, it felt like staying in a postcard.

Hot Water Beach + Ocean Swim – On the Coromandel Peninsula, we found natural hot springs bubbling up through the sand at low tide. Dig a hole, create your own hot tub, then cool off with a swim in the ocean. A full-circle moment of nature and joy.

Scenic Steamship Cruise – This old-school boat ride was way more fun than expected. The sunny weather, open-air deck, and very visible coal-shoveling engine room made it feel like a ride through time—with cold beer, no less.

The Culture of Care – Across the country, we noticed a deep sense of stewardship—for the land, for each other, for community. It was calming and contagious.

Sydney Sights & a Bigger Mission – A quick but worthy detour to Australia to check another continent off my list. The Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, and Bondi Beach were all hits—and the Little National Hotel made for a luxe home base.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Four Points by Sheraton (Auckland) – Central and convenient.
• Milford Sound Lodge – The most scenic spot of the trip.
• Coronation Lodge (Queenstown) – Comfortable base for exploring the South Island.
• Koura Lodge (Rotorua) – Peaceful lakeside stay.
• Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort (Hahei) – Charming beach bungalow for a perfect coastal escape.
• Little National Hotel (Sydney) – Compact but luxurious city stay.

Transportation

• A multi-leg journey with connections through Dallas, San Francisco, and Auckland. Domestic flights within NZ and AU were smooth. Renting cars made remote access easy—especially in Queenstown and Rotorua.

Notable Food

• Fergburger in Queenstown(a must!)
• Delicious lodge breakfasts at Milford Sound
• Morning pastries in Sydney

Activities

• Helicopter glacier landing
• Milford Sound boat cruise
• Onsen hot pools and Rotorua spas
• Hobbiton and geothermal parks
• Beach walks, rainforest hikes, and winery stops
• White water tubing through glow worm caves
• Sydney sights: Opera House, Darling Harbour, Bondi Beach

Tips for Travelers

• Plan well, but leave room for surprises—like that boat ride.
• Book Milford Sound early—it’s remote and worth the effort.
• New Zealand roads are scenic but winding. Don’t rush.
• Pack for layers. You’ll go from snow to swimsuits.
• Consider combining countries if you’re going all that way—Sydney was a perfect complement.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

New Zealand is one of those rare places that feels both epic and intimate. From the quiet kindness of the people to the raw beauty of the land, it just felt right. Adding Sydney helped round out the journey and push forward a personal goal—visiting all seven continents.

NZ is easily one of my favorite countries.

Trip Overview

This was a special one—not just for the destination, but for who came along. I planned a Thanksgiving getaway to Belize and invited both my family and my partner’s family to join. Between beach days, jungle adventures, scuba lessons, and shared meals, it turned into one of the most memorable family vacations we’ve ever had.

We split our time between the ocean and the jungle, staying on Ambergris Caye at Matachica Resort & Spa, and then heading inland to Gaia Riverlodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

Most Memorable Moments

San Pedro Food Tour – We joined Belize Food Tours and wandered the streets of San Pedro, tasting local favorites and hearing stories behind the dishes. A highlight of the trip—so much flavor, so much heart.

Scuba Certification (Family Style!) – My mom and my partner’s dad both got scuba certified on this trip! I joined them on their certification dives and got to watch them explore a whole new world underwater. It was awesome to see them take on something so new.

Natural Pools at Gaia – Gaia Riverlodge has these beautiful natural swimming pools you access by riding a funicular down the hillside. One day we even had lunch delivered poolside. It was paradise—until a giant snake swam across the water. Needless to say, that ended our pool sessions for the trip.

Birdwatching with My Mom – A couple of quiet mornings at Gaia, my mom and I walked around with binoculars, watching tropical birds flit through the trees. It was slow, peaceful, and really special time together.

Villa Jaguar Watch – My partner’s family stayed in a magical riverside villa that ended up being pretty far from the main lodge. It was beautiful—tucked along the river, peaceful and remote—but we all kept joking that a jaguar might break in at night. They loved it… mostly. Probably would’ve preferred being a little closer to the snacks.

Celebrating Thanksgiving away from it all – We traded turkey for Caribbean breezes. No complaints.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Matachica Resort & Spa: Adults-only, beachfront, and perfectly peaceful.
• Gaia Riverlodge: Eco-lodge with waterfall views, nature trails, and cozy cabins.

Transportation

• We flew into Belize City, then hopped a short flight to San Pedro for the beach portion. For the jungle leg, we transferred back via Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport and continued inland to Gaia.

Food

• Local street eats on the food tour in San Pedro
• Fresh seafood, plantains, and coconut rice at Matachica
• Homestyle Belizean dishes in the mountains

Activities

• Snorkeling and diving (including the Hol Chan Marine Reserve)
• Food tour in San Pedro
• Lots of time at the pool
• Exploring Caracol ruins

Tips for Travelers

• Book domestic flights ahead—they fill fast.
• Belize is super laid-back—embrace it. Island time is real.
• Bring bug spray for the jungle, reef-safe sunscreen for the coast.
• Belize is bilingual, but knowing a little Spanish goes a long way inland.
• Traveling with both sides of the family? Make space for solo moments, too.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip was about more than the destination—it was about bringing two families together, sharing new experiences, and building memories in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. Whether we were learning to scuba, doing a walking food tour, or hiking through jungle mist, every moment felt like a gift.

Trip Overview

Sometimes, the stars align—and in this case, so did the flight deals. After watching Qatar Airways business class prices drop day after day, I finally hit book on a trip to the Maldives. It became a celebration of Katie’s graduation and one of the most romantic, relaxing getaways we’ve ever taken.

We stayed at the Centara Collection Machchafushi Island Resort & Spa, surrounded by turquoise water, soft sand, and the kind of ocean life that feels straight out of a documentary. Everything was designed to slow you down and soak it all in.

Most Memorable Moments

Snorkeling off the bar porch – No tour needed. Just steps from the bar, we dropped into the most alive reef I’ve ever seen—teeming with color, movement, and wonder. We snorkeled for hours, just us and the fish.

Hand-line fishing, island-style – One afternoon we went fishing with nothing but a line wrapped around a plastic spool. You’d feel a tiny nibble and yank up as fast as possible. I actually caught a few! A fun, simple throwback to what fishing might’ve looked like before reels.

The Thai restaurant surprise – On our last night, the staff surprised us with a special, flower-adorned table. They’d made gifts, showed us a sweet video they put together, and treated us like royalty. I still have the palm frond fish they gave me—it’s framed in my office now.

Living over the water – Waking up to the ocean under your feet, watching the reef ripple from your deck, and showering with the sound of waves all around. It’s hard to go back after that.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa Maldives – We split our time between an island room and one of their overwater villas. Crystal-clear water right outside the door, spa-level amenities, and private decks that feel like your own slice of the sea.

Transportation

• The flights were long—but made totally worth it by the Qatar Airways experience. Business class made it feel like the trip started before we even landed.
• Once we landed in the Maldives, we switched to a small sea plan to get the rest of the way to the hotel. The plane made a few stops at different islands before we got to ours.

Notable Food

• Multiple on-site restaurants, but the Thai restaurant stole our hearts.
• All-inclusive options made it easy to indulge.
• Pro tip: get to know the staff. The more they get to know you, the more magic they create.

Activities

• Snorkeling directly off the resort
• Fishing using traditional hand-line methods
• Sunset strolls, swimming, and pure relaxation
• Spa treatments and long lazy meals

Tips for Travelers

• Invest in good snorkel gear—you’ll want to use it every day.
• Don’t over-plan. The joy of the Maldives is in doing less.
• Book seats early if you’re flying long haul. Qatar’s business class is worth it.
• Bring a waterproof phone case or GoPro-type camera for reef videos.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This was one of those trips that doesn’t feel real even when you’re living it. Everything moved slower, deeper, and more beautifully. From snorkeling through vibrant reefs to sharing an ocean-view dinner with handmade gifts, it was a reminder that sometimes the best decisions come from gut instinct… and a good flight deal.

Trip Overview

This was a cozy winter getaway that turned into something much more memorable. Over two weeks in December, I explored windswept coastlines in Ireland, skied the Alps in Austria, and soaked up the holiday spirit in Germany. Along the way, I reunited with old friends, discovered unexpected moments of peace, and leaned fully into the magic of winter.

Most Memorable Moments

A Pub by the Sea in Kinsale, Ireland – After a long walk along the coast to a castle, we stumbled into a local pub just as the wind started howling outside. We landed the perfect seats—right next to a fireplace, Guinness in hand, watching the winter sea thrash through the windows. One of those “you can’t plan it” moments.

Skiing the Alps in Mayrhofen, Austria – It doesn’t get more classic than fresh powder and blue skies. But honestly, the hotel’s spa and sauna might’ve been just as good after a cold day on the slopes.

Reuniting with Lars in Munich – It was great to catch up with my long-time friend over beers and bratwurst in a festive Bavarian city.

Dragging Luggage Through a Ski Town – I’ll never forget hauling our bags across icy bridges and cobblestone streets in Mayrhofen. It felt ridiculous and hilarious all at once. Classic Europe-in-winter energy.

Bonus: A Night Stranded in Munich – After our flight home got canceled, I managed to score a business class seat for the next day and spent one extra night in Munich drinking beers with a fellow stranded traveler. It was the perfect, unexpected cherry on top of the trip.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• 🇮🇪 The White House, Kinsale – Quaint Irish charm near the water.
• 🇮🇪 Cork International Hotel – A convenient and modern option near the airport.
• 🇦🇹 Hubers Boutiquehotel, Mayrhofen – This place was a dream: mountain views, alpine spa, and some of the best food of the trip (full board included!).
• 🇩🇪 Courtyard Munich City Center – A central, easy base in Munich for city exploring.

Transportation

• In addition to flights and busses, we took a scenic train route through the Alps to/from Munich to Mayrhofen.

Notable Food

• Guinness in a cozy pub (obviously).
• Four-course dinners at Hubers in Austria.
• German beers with friends and strangers alike.
• And lots of train snacks and pastries along the way

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip was full of surprises—some frustrating, most beautiful, all memorable. The biggest gift was how cozy it all felt. From saunas and snowfall to candlelit pubs and late-night train chats, it was a reminder that winter doesn’t have to mean staying inside.

Trip Overview

This was a big one—our very first RV adventure as a family. Over the course of a week, we road-tripped through Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, staying at a mix of campgrounds, hiking scenic trails, trying local flavors, and soaking up time together. From peaceful paddles to spontaneous pit stops, this trip was full of freedom, laughter, and unforgettable moments on the road.

Most Memorable Moments

Paddle boarding with my parents – Calm mornings on the water made for some of the most peaceful moments of the whole trip.

Biking into Copper Harbor – We rode into town for a beer with my dad – what more do you need?

Card games in the RV – A new nightly tradition. Rain or shine, we circled up to play—laughing, scheming, and definitely getting competitive.

JR’s Bar – We were driving when we got the news that my sister had just had her first child, JR. A few minutes later, we passed a little dive called JR’s Bar. Naturally, we had to pull over and raise a toast.

Walking across the Mackinac Bridge – Once a year the bridge closes for a race and for folks to walk across. I’m so glad the timing worked out for it.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• Traverse City
• Wilderness State Park
• Pictured Rocks KOA
• Fort Wilkins Historic State Park
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
• Manistique Lakeshore Campground

Transportation

• RV of course! This was our first-ever RV trip, and while it had a learning curve, it ended up being the best way to travel. Having everything with us—kitchen, beds, bathroom—made the journey as much a part of the fun as the destinations.

Food

• We cooked a lot in the RV, but two food stops stole the show:
  • Miners Pasty Kitchen in Munising. Classic U.P. flavors, served hot and flaky. Ideal after a long hike or drive.
  • Cherry Public House in Glenn Arbor was a repeat for me but was still delicious!

Activities

• Paddle boarding and biking
• Hiking at Pictured Rocks and the “Porkies”
• Exploring lighthouses and small towns
• Playing cards and relaxing at camp
• Swimming (and occasionally freezing!) in the lakes
• Celebrating spontaneous life moments on the road

Tips for Travelers

• Plan for “shit.” Literally and figuratively. Waste disposal is part of RV life, and so are unexpected curveballs. Laugh about them, and prep accordingly.
• Leave room in the schedule for surprises—like JR’s Bar.
• Bring games, books, and campfire gear. Evenings are magical.
• Reserve your campgrounds early—these spots book up, especially in peak summer.
• First-timers: take it slow. Backing into tight sites isn’t a race.
• If crossing the Mackinac bridge, be aware that it is closed for a good part of the day on Labor day.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This trip wasn’t just about exploring Michigan—it was about bonding, slowing down, and saying “yes” to the open road. The RV gave us freedom, the forests gave us peace, and the time together gave us stories we’ll tell forever. For our first RV experience, it couldn’t have gone better.

Trip Overview

Winter in Western Michigan brings a different kind of magic—less buzz, more calm. On this quick cold-weather escape, we visited Saugatuck, Holland, and a few hidden gems along the lakeshore. Snow-dusted streets, lakeside views, and plenty of cozy downtime made this the perfect recharge trip.

A surprise detour north to the Upper Peninsula even landed me a COVID shot on my birthday—unexpected, but memorable!

Most Memorable Moments

Holland State Park & Big Red Lighthouse – With the lake partially frozen and snow blanketing the sand, the lighthouse looked straight out of a postcard.

Saugatuck’s Winter Quiet – Peaceful streets, glowing galleries, and a slower rhythm. The town may be known for summer, but it has a special quiet charm in winter.

The Farmhouse Deli & Pantry – Easily one of the best meals of the trip. Sandwiches so good, we almost went back the same day.

Logistics & Practical Information

Accommodation

• We stayed in a few well-located Airbnbs, both cozy and perfect for curling up after a chilly day of exploring. Fireplaces were a big plus—this was a trip full of flannel and warm socks.

Transportation

• You’ll want a car to explore the area fully. Roads were plowed and manageable despite the snow, and off-season parking in town centers was a breeze.

Food

• The sandwiches at The Farmhouse Deli & Pantry in Saugatuck

Activities

• Strolling through quiet towns and lakefront parks
• Lakeshore photography and sightseeing
• Fireside reading, relaxing, and recharging
• Bonus detour north to the Upper Peninsula for a spontaneous COVID vaccine

Tips for Travelers

• Many places operate on winter hours—check ahead before heading out.
• Holland’s heated sidewalks make winter strolling so much more pleasant.
• Bring your favorite book and lean into the slower pace—this isn’t a hustle trip, it’s a reset.
• If you’re up for a spontaneous adventure, don’t rule out detours—they might be more memorable than the main plan.

Reflections & Final Thoughts

This wasn’t the most adrenaline-packed trip, but it didn’t need to be. Winter in Michigan offers something quieter and more introspective—long walks, cozy fireplaces, good food, and unexpected memories. From the lakeshore to the U.P., it was the kind of trip that lingers.