Some experiences can make or break you. At 19,341 feet above sea level, with the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro now “done and dusted,” I vowed to never view another incline again. Yet here I am, more than a month later, reeling from the high of reaching the roof of Africa, considering, “Which summit is next?” 

It’s taken me far too long to post photos and reflections from this experience of a lifetime, as I’ve been catching up on work, writing assignments and handling the routine of the kids’ return to school. But the scenes from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro linger in my mind: trekking its muddy rainforests, sliding along scree, sleeping under the star-studded sky, and those moments when I was huffing and puffing through moorlands, telling myself to simply put one foot in front of the other. 

Kilimanjaro was never on any bucket list of mine. I had never given it a thought. My gaze had been set upon Everest Base Camp for years, but when I started planning a family trip to Kenya, the opportunity to take a quick detour to Tanzania presented itself (consider it a calling, or just well targeted Facebook ads!). Suddenly, Kili became my new obsession.

I told my mom- she started praying.

I told my dad- he started inquiring.

I told my sister and husband, asking if they wanted to join, and they said, “That’s all you.” 

To some extent they were right—it was all me— but it also wasn’t. 

My hiking group had no other tourists, so it was just me, my guide, and eight porters. The first night on the mountain, when I tucked into my sleeping bag, I felt alone. Yet in all the days that followed, I never once felt lonely. Eight porters would take down the entire camp site each day, pass me on the trail balancing 15-20 kilos on their backs and heads, then set up camp at the next site. By the time I would reach camp, there was a four-course, hot meal prepared. Despite all that they were carrying — while maintaining that Hakuna Mattata attitude— they would motivate me, uttering “Strong woman!” as I ambled along with a measly 11 kilos on my back. 

My Climb Kili guide, Frank, kept me informed and engaged throughout the trek. It got to a point where, as we slogged toward the lava tower across alpine desert, I had to politely tell him to pause on the philosophical discussions because I simply could not engage in further conversation: I was out of breath.

It was also thanks to his expertise and  transparency that I was well prepared for summit night, which would reach 5°F to -13°F, plus windchill. I bundled up in seven layers of clothing — and didn’t feel cold (except for my hands). I could focus all of my attention on taking one step at a time in the dark instead of expending energy to stay warm. 

Finally standing at 19,341 feet above sea level, the experience of hiking to the top of the world’s tallest free-standing mountain left me breathless in more ways than one. I felt the culmination of months of preparation, the warmth of my friends and family who had encouraged me along the way, the confidence to achieve anything that I set my mind to, and the power of a force much larger than any of us.  

The mountains are my temple. Though they can be chiseled into new forms through wind, water and geological forces, I feel they have a permanence that puts our existence into perspective. Experiences like this – hiking to the top of one of the world’s tallest peaks- is one of the purest ways for me to experience the divine, within and without. 

And it wasn’t just me over the five months of preparation and six days of the hike. I carried with me: 

• The strength in my dancer’s legs and faith bestowed upon me from my mom (she would be happy to know that I mentally chanted Hanuman Chalisa on summit night to get me to the top!);
• The sense of adventure and practicality instilled in me by my dad (his words “to remain steady” rang in my mind throughout the hike);
• The unflinching support of my husband, who solo-parented the entire extra week I was climbing the mountain and  handled the kids each time I escaped into the woods for a practice hike;
• The love of my kids who asked on the very first day of the climb, “Mom, are you at the top?”;
• My sister’s embrace in the form of a brass Tanzania bracelet she purchased from the Maasai village market before I set off;
• The good wishes of my girl friends — old and new  — who accompanied me on trails in Georgia and a high-altitude test-run up Mt. Elbert in Colorado; 
• The expertise and friendship of my guide, who checked my vitals, ensured I was well fed and properly hydrated along the way 
• The endurance of my upbeat porters, who not only carried the entire campsite on their backs, but did so in high spirits to keep me motivated too!

Climbing Kilimanjaro was one of the most, if not the most, mentally and physically challenging things I’ve done. I have returned from it with a renewed sense of confidence, clarity and faith. 

The resort is barely stirring when my husband and I wake up at 3:30 a.m. to retrieve our car from the valet. Jetlag, having arrived from the East coast, has worked in our favor, but we’ve ordered our daily dose of caffeine from the 24-hour Loulu cafe before setting off to catch sunrise above the clouds.

Once we’ve left the glow of Wailea’s bungalow, a sequined sky comes into focus. Within an hour, it slips from onyx to indigo, from cobalt to lighter hues of blue, until the horizon ignites like a flare. We race along Haleakalā’s winding roads to reach her summit in time to greet the sun.

It’s the morning of our tenth wedding anniversary, and although we’re staying at a five-star luxury resort in Hawaii, we’re opting for a slice of heaven that doesn’t include breakfast in bed. 

Shifting perception of luxury

Long considered a honeymooners’ paradise and celebrity escape, Maui boasts world-class golf turf, golden beaches, sudsy surf and lavish resort experiences.

While many consider Maui’s resorts ideal for romantic getaways, its splendor transcends traditional definitions of luxury, as the island provides varied, rich experiences that families will find rewarding, too. 

“Luxury in Maui has evolved from simply high-end accommodations to something far meaningful and personal,” explains Sherry Duong, island director for the Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau. “Today’s visitors are seeking connection to place, to people and to purpose. They value privacy, authenticity and experiences that feel rooted in Hawai’i culture and natural environment.”

This could look like farm-to-table dining featuring local ingredients, guided cultural experiences, or relaxing time spent in nature, Duong says. 

For our milestone vacation with our kids, we experienced all three, both within the bounds of the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria resort, and other parts of the island. 

Bountiful seaside spread 

On the night we arrived, we couldn’t take in the resort’s full splendor, but its grandeur was clear from the lobby: an open-air foyer leading into a sprawling atrium, polished stone floors, a water fountain, and grandiose sculptures. 

It wasn’t until the next morning that we could fully behold paradise, where palm trees lazily leaned over lagoons. The waterside Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa restaurant, named after the Hawaiian state fish, offered a breakfast spread of fresh pancakes with guava preserves and coconut syrup, crispy hash browns and roasted vegetables, and an assortment of cereals, breads and crudites. Guests could order eggs their way at the omelet station or savor a buffet of fresh fruit and cheeses. My kids fueled up on pancakes before a morning spent splashing at the pool. 

The resort’s network of pools was connected by chutes, some under caves and falls, others more exposed to the elements for sunbathers. The slides surged with water during peak times of the day, but my kids frolicked at all hours nonetheless.

Absorbing the Aloha spirit 

Maui’s appeal extends beyond leisure.

We attended ukulele lessons because my daughter, already musically inclined, was eager to learn. The instructor explained how the four-string instrument was brought to Hawaii by the Portuguese before becoming woven into Hawaiian storytelling traditions and cultural preservation. My children practiced simple chords while the instructor filled the air with jaunty melodies.

The sounds he produced –cheerful and whimsical– were far from the sounds reverberating atop Haleakalā’s summit, where a Hawaiian troupe rendered a haunting chant to welcome the sunrise over the summit. Haleakalā, which means “House of the Sun,” is a dormant 10,023-foot volcano and is considered a sacred place for the Hawaiians. 

“Beyond the natural beauty, there is a cultural significance,” Duong says of the mountain, which is believed to be the site from which demigod Maui lassoed the sun to lengthen the days.

Celebrating indigenous lands and marine life

For the breathtaking grandeur of the resort and island, there’s ample opportunity to connect with nature, too. We walked along the rocky coastline to spy sea cucumbers, sea stars and guppies in tide pools. To learn more about the island’s marine life, we visited the Maui Ocean Center, which features vibrant coral displays, a shark tank, a sea turtle lagoon, touch pool and immersive 3D movie experience that simulates the experience of swimming alongside humpback whales. 

At the center’s Kaho’olawe exhibit, we gained greater appreciation for Hawaii’s indigenous history. The display covers the neighboring island of Kaho’olawe, once an uninhabited island used for celestial navigation training, agriculture and spiritual practice, but eventually overused by the U.S. military for target practice. The exhibit recounts the Native Hawaiian movement to reclaim and restore the island, according to Communications Manager Mike Morris.

“I think a lot of people are really moved by that exhibit, and they might not know about that history,” Morris says. 

The center has curated its share of high-end experiences, celebrating native cuisine and Hawaiian craftsmanship through the oceanfront dining and Treasures gift shop featuring hand-selected jewelry and art by local makers.

Morris says these experiences not only educate visitors about the marine ecosystems that have shaped Maui, but preserve them as well. Through Maui Ocean Center patronage, visitors support its non-profit sister organization, the Marine Institute at Maui Ocean Center, which conducts coral restoration, monk seal response, and care for injured sea turtles. 

Staying grounded in paradise 

We encountered wild sea turtles at the start of our scenic drive along the Road to Hana with a stop at Ho’okipa Beach. The beach is a popular spot for surfers and also known for its concentration of sea turtles. We spotted at least fifty massive specimens on the beach, some emerging from the waves and gliding onto the sand, like driftwood washing up along the shore. Others waddled laboriously across the sand, only to move a few feet at a time.

The 64-mile Road to Hana features dramatic views of deep gulches, jagged shores and vistas, but is not for the faint of heart; the drive includes 600 hairpin turns and 54 narrow bridges that are likely to make one queasy. We concluded our drive near mile marker 34, with a lunch stop at the Hana Ranch Restaurant, which sources ingredients from local farmers, ranchers and fishermen and overlooks Kaihalulu Bay. 

We spent our last day upcountry, at the historic ʻĪao Valley State Monument, known for its lush forest mountainscape and iconic 1,200-foot pinnacle, the Iao Needle. It is here that King Kamehameha I defeated Maui’s army to unite the Hawaiian islands.  Nearby, we met up with friends in the town of Wailuku, which often hosts community markets and festivals. Farm tours, cultural workshops and family-run businesses create opportunities for visitors to connect more meaningfully with local communities, according to Duong. She describes this philosophy through the Hawaiian concept of mālama, or care.

For our family, that mindset lingered more than any luxury amenity. Maui’s beauty is abundant, and its deeper magic emerged through connection: to a sacred mountain, a thriving landscape, and a resilient community eager to preserve its heritage through stewarding the land and sharing its heritage amidst high tourism and development. 

“It’s such a privilege to be here on Maui,” reflects Morris. “If you come here with that kind of mentality and respect, then Maui has a way of showing you its magic.” 

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO – Haleakalā National Park

• Reserve your spot in advance for sunrise visits. Book through the National Park Service: https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10086745. 
• Dress in warm layers: Summit temperatures can drop into the 30- 40 degrees F.
• Take it slow and stay hydrated: At more than 10,000+ feet, high elevation can feel intense.
• Bring snacks, arrive early (for sunset, too), and set expectations with little ones.

DO YOUR PART

• Use reef-safe or mineral-based sunscreen
• Don’t touch/stand on or disturb coral
• Give wildlife space 
• Support local artisans
• Volunteer at a beach cleanup or tree-planting project

Related Posts

• Oahu: The Gathering Place
• Exploring the Big Island, Hawaii’s Most Dynamic Isle

(Note: I visited Switzerland in 1995 when I was 7 years old, and my documentation of the visit is limited to the list of places I noted in my diary at the time. Therefore, the following post has been produced using what I can recall from the visit 30 years later, and the meticulous documentation of my father, Krishna Alladi.)

It’s a country where the air feels crisper, the mountains more staggering, and the lakes more brilliant, gleaming like polished sapphire. Each corner of Switzerland offers a new dimension of scenic views and history, from the daunting peaks of the Alps to the serene lakesides of Geneva. My memory of Switzerland is based on a childhood visit full of unforgettable moments, most notably walking inside of a glacier on Mt. Titlis and visiting my first castle in the town of Montreux.

Mt. Titlis: A Walk Inside a Glacier

I remember first learning about the Alps in the extracurricular French class I had started taking at the age of 6 one summer– Ecole Francaise. In learning of the majesty of the largest mountain range in Europe, I was childishly proud to learn “la montagne” took on the feminine article “la” in French.

Thus when my father told me we’d be visiting the Alps with a trip to Mt. Titlis during our European tour, I was thrilled. My mother, ever aware of cold air at any elevation, urged us to bundle up even though it was the height of summer. The patchwork of green fields and scattered villages gave no hint of cooler temperatures until we got to the base of the cable car ride that would take us to the peak. It was a sight of pure magic: a snow-white landscape, where the ground was a seamless stretch of ice, and the jagged peaks of the Swiss Alps framed the sky like a natural cathedral.

Icy walls of the glacier cave we entered shone slick and glossy as we walked through, each step on the ice echoing through the cavern. It was a reminder that this frozen world was alive, shifting, and in constant motion.

Zurich: A Dance of Old and New

In contrast to the frigid peaks of Titlis, Zurich, Switzerland’s vibrant financial heart throbbed with the warmth of its people and liveliness of activity. Here, tradition and innovation collide. The cobbled streets of the Old Town (Altstadt) are a hallmark of this district, which once served as a Roman customs post in the 2nd century, vestiges still present in “archaeological windows” seen across the city.

Glassy reflections of churches and medieval buildings bounce off the Limmat River. On the opposite bank sit facades of sleek modern cafes and boutiques. Zurich felt energetic, but not overwhelmingly so.

Lucerne: A City of Bridges and Lakes

Meanwhile, the town of Lucerne sits snug between the jagged mountains. The old wooden Chapel Bridge, with its flowers and quaint paintings of Lucerne’s history, stretch over the Reuss River.

Geneva: The International City by the Lake

Geneva, the global city of diplomacy, held a more refined elegance. The waters of Lake Geneva stretched out, with the famed Jet d’Eau fountain shooting a plume of water high into the air as it caught the sunlight, sending shimmering droplets across the city.

The lively Quai du Mont Blanc along the Lac de Geneve is lined with grand buildings and the occasional elegant yacht gliding across the water. On a clear day, you can see views of the Mont Blanc mountain range from the promenade. Walking along the quai, one is surrounded by the soft murmur of French spoken by other strollers.

Jardin Botanique: A Botanical Escape

The Jardin Botanique in Geneva is part of the University of Zurich’s Department of Systematic and Evolutionary Botany, free to the public. It features three domes, which represent different climatic zones: tropical rainforest, subtropical and savanna.

Visitors can encounter up to 7,000 species, including specialized areas for medicinal plants, alpine flora, and a pond for aquatic plants.

My family and I wandered through the meticulously manicured gardens. The pathways wound through a carpet of vibrant blooms.

Among the most fascinating sights for me was the waterfront Chateaux de Chillon in Montreux, along the banks for Lake Geneva. True, at first, it was underwhelming to my 7-year-old self to discover that a “castle” could be as basic as a cold, stone structure with towers and holes for windows, and not the plush abodes draped in silks, gilded furniture and glittering chandeliers that I had seen in Disney movies.

In stark contrast to the Versallies palace, which was designed in the ornate French Baroque style, the medieval chateaux was far more bare bones. Still, I appreciated the reality check. The tour guide recounted tales of how the counts of Savoy used the castle as a toll gate for travelers passing through the north-south Via Francigena corridor, and how the castle turned into a summer home and eventually, a prison to hold political dissenters, religious reformers, war hostages and accused criminals.

Switzerland was a land that felt timeless, a place where nature and culture meet in a stunning embrace. Each destination I visited left an indelible mark—whether it was the exhilarating chill of a glacier beneath my feet or the quiet majesty of the Swiss Alps stretching endlessly into the horizon.

Ten years ago, Iceland wasn’t even on my bucket list. Today, after having visited the nordic nation almost six years ago, it remains to be my favorite country visited.

Social media posts inspired me to visit the veritable dreamland. With its rainbows, verdant pastures, idyllic villages and surging waterfalls, it was as if the only thing missing from the country were unicorns.

Like so many before me, I was drawn to the milky waters of the mineral-steeped Blue Lagoon, compelling me to visit with my husband and infant daughter in 2019. However, I’m glad we ventured beyond the Golden Circle for a weeklong road trip through southern Iceland to explore far more pristine locations that left a lasting impression.

The good news is that Iceland isn’t very crowded to start. It has one of the lowest population densities in Europe, at roughly four people per square kilometer. It isn’t even among the list of top 50 countries in terms of visitor arrivals, having raked in only 2.3 million visitors in 2024, compared to #50 on the list, Brazil, which drew 5.9 million.

However, Iceland has gained popularity over the years, according to figures from the Icelandic Tourist Board, so if you are looking for more isolated spots to find some peace, there are alternative locations that offer some of the same sought-after features of the hot spots, with far fewer people.

1. Bruarfoss, The Serene Blue Oasis

Searching for those bright blue waters? Skip the man-made Blue Lagoon, which has a bit of an industrial backdrop, requires tickets and paces visitors’ entry to avoid overcrowding. Truly, the Blue Lagoon is not worth the effort. The lagoon is fed by waste water (albeit, safe, mineral-rich water) from a nearby geothermal plant and attracts scores of visitors to its silica banks. For all the hype surrounding it, I was disappointed that the water felt tepid at best after just a few minutes of soaking.

Instead, I suggest visiting the fresh, free-flowing Bruarfoss, one of Iceland’s most captivating hidden waterfalls. Tucked away from the tourist trails, Bruarfoss is renowned for its enchanting turquoise waters. The hike to this stunning oasis is muddy and challenging, but every step is worth the effort. There isn’t much activity along the trail so you’ll enjoy a peaceful respite. Just be sure to wear proper hiking boots with good treads– the path is often slippery, and I found myself grasping for tree branches, bushes and roots to keep from falling along the way. I wouldn’t recommend it for small children (I left my infant with my husband in the car). The payoff was worth it: churning blue rapids cascading over inky lava rock. I felt far more alive and rejuvenated when I reached the falls compared to when I soaked in the lukewarm Blue Lagoon.

If, however, you are seeking a relaxing spa day, there are numerous other hotels and resorts near thermal pools where you can have a much more intimate experience. The Myvatn Nature Baths and Sky Lagoon are reportedly less crowded, and even our Minniborgir Cottage in Grimsnes came with a naturally heated private hot tub.

2. Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon: Nature’s Grand Design

If plunging canyons are what you are after, embark on an adventure to Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. This majestic canyon, formed by centuries of glacial meltwater, invites you to explore its dramatic cliffs and winding river below. Unlike the more popular Stuðlagil basalt column canyon, Fjaðrárgljúfur offers a serene escape into nature, where you can hike along well-marked paths and take in panoramic views that seem to stretch endlessly. The vibrant green walls of the canyon, coupled with the shimmering waters below are the visual treat you need for a blissful escape.

3. Dverghamrar: The Enchanted Basalt Columns

Looking for those hexagonal patterned columns? The basalt columns at Reynisfjara Beach are a common focal point for visitors. However, a number of people amass at the beach and climb the columns, so it’s almost impossible to enjoy it peacefully or snap a photo without another human being in the picture.

That’s why I much preferred Dverghamrar, or “Dwarf Rocks,” where I couldn’t find another person in sight. The folklore suggests this to be the home of dwarves and elves.

This lesser-known spot allows you to marvel at the unique geological features without the hustle and bustle of tourists. The intriguing shapes and patterns of the columns are a testament to Iceland’s volcanic activity, making Dverghamrar a fascinating site for geology lovers. The natural formation of basalt columns occurs with the cooling and contraction of lava. Walk around this peaceful area, take pictures, and enjoy the tranquility that surrounds you.

4. Jökulsárlón: The Glacial Wonderland

The ice is bigger, bolder and bluer at Jokulsarlon compared to Diamond Beach, though the two are close to each other, so you could easily visit both. Instead of the bling at Diamond Beach though, you’ll find ‘bergs bobbing at the lagoon. Plus, the iceberg lagoon is teeming with seals.

If you head to the lagoon earlier in the day, you’ll encounter fewer visitors. In the afternoons and evenings, there are more tourists who take rafts onto the waters, and amphibious craft carry visitors from land into the lagoon for an immersive experience to touch and taste the ice.

You’re likely to not run into many crowds in Iceland anyway, but to truly enjoy the country’s remote, unsullied landscapes, there are quieter spots where you can retreat. You’ll feel miles apart from anything or anyone else in the world, making these ideal for anyone looking to disconnect for awhile.

Related Posts

• Self-Guided Iceland Itineraries – 3 Days, 7 Days

It is officially the first day of fall, or the autumn equinox, in the Northern hemisphere, though the season has already been teasing us with previews of brisker mornings the last couple of weeks here in Atlanta. Nothing is more invigorating for me than that moment when you start to feel the slight drop in temperatures and the introduction of those deep fall colors on the trees. It is my absolute favorite season. I’ve never had to sip a pumpkin spice latte to get into the mood for it, but I do start to make use of root vegetables, incorporate spices and leafy greens into my cooking, and seek those destinations where I’m likely to get my fill of multi-color hues.

Best Places to Catch Fall Colors in the Southeast

Within driving distance of Atlanta is the start of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Trail, which are perfect spots to see the leaves turn.

• Fort Mountain
• Cloudland Canyon
• Tallulah Gorge
• Brasstown Bald

Long-Weekend Escapes

If you’re planning a long weekend getaway for Veteran’s Day or Thanksgiving, these spots offer enough to do while also not overwhelming travelers who are only visiting for a few days.

• Charleston
• Salt Lake City
• Asheville
• Key West
• Kauai

Sugar & Spice

• Roasted Radish Over Chard with Ground Pepper Dressing
• Curried Carrot-Ginger Soup (my Thanksgiving potluck contribution)
• Vegan Pumpkin Chutney
• Vegan Thai Mango Salad with Ginger Dressing
• Vegan Thai Curry
• Vegetarian Thai Pizza

Global Getaways

From the frothy mugs at Oktoberfest to northern lights floating above the Scandinavian sky, these international destinations are ideal for an autumn visit.

• Victoria, British Columbia
• Iceland (road trip through the southeast)
• Portugal (Lisbon, Porto, Sintra)
• Germany ( Bavaria and Berlin)

Travel Updates

• TSA is now accepting digital IDs in 11 states, including Georgia.
• Online passport renewal is back in the U.S. Learn more about the requirements here.
• JetBlue will start to open airport lounges in 2025.

Atlanta Updates

• Toastique, a health-focused franchise, will officially open in Midtown Atlanta on Oct. 5.
• NaanStop will host a Diwali bash at its Atlantic Station location on Oct. 29 starting at 5:30 p.m., with entertainment, food and diya lighting.

(This post is still under construction, but the itinerary stands! Check back soon for the full details and narrative.)

In a whirlwind week-long trip to Portugal one fall, we managed to push our little ones along the hilly streets of Lisbon, Porto and Sintra.

With its terra-cotta roofs and walls paneled in azulejos tiles, walking the streets of Portugal is a view into the melange of Roman, Germanic and Moorish influences.

Given the jetlag that sets in after the red-eye flight to Europe from the U.S., I would suggest allowing more time for rest and a slower pace compared to the itinerary below, but know that it is possible to explore all of this within just a few days, all while trudging up and down hills with a double stroller! Below, I updated the itinerary of what we actually did to offer a more leisurely itinerary to explore the Pena palace in Sintra.

We booked exclusively through aggregator sites like hotels.com to find affordable accommodations.

Day 1

• REST after arrival.
• After napping, enjoy a late afternoon sunset stroll along the water and Terriero de Paco
• Dinner at Carnal in Barrio Alto

Day 2

• Coffee at Simpli
• Trek up to to the historic Sao Jorge Castle
• Look over the rooftops of the Alfama neighborhood
• Lunch at Dama E Vagabundo near Praca de Figueroa
• Step through Chiado
• Dinner at Tamarind (Indian restaurant)

Day 3

Take the train to Sintra in the morning – spend the whole day at one of the palaces. Our pick was the colorful Pena Palace. If we visit Portugal again, I think we would actually stay in the town of Sintra and spend one day each to explore the three main palaces.

Day 4

• Ride the train to Porto from the Lisboa Oriente station.
• Sip sweet port wine along the Duoro River

Day 5

• Tour by foot, stopping at Stock Exchange Palace, Sao Lorenco Church, Porto Cathedral, Igreja do Carmo, Mercado de Balhao, Avenue of the Allies, Church of Saint Ildefonso
• Lunch at Puro 4050– excellent!
• Scamper around the Jardim de Cordoaria
• Ride the Gaia cable cars up to the viewpoint at the upper deck of Luis I bridge
• Float along the river by boat

Day 6

Depart from Porto

(This post is under construction)

1. Swimming at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic Beach Park

2. Viewing marine life through the Glassbottom Boat Tours

3. Glimpsing into the life of American novelist Ernest Hemingway

4. Touching the Southernmost Point of the contiguous U.S.

5. Kayaking the mangroves

6. Catching the sunset from the water

Related Post

• What I Learned About Gratitude Searching for Dolphins in Key West

Oktoberfest once conjured images for me of crowded tents held up by wooden stilts, sudsy liter-sized mugs brimming with ale, and throngs of tipsy carousers gawking at beer waitresses, their bosoms bursting from bodices; however Oktoberfest first and foremost is the largest volksfest, or folk festival, and a celebration of Bavarian traditions. Those tents or not shoddy hovels – they are complete weather-proof wooden structures with high ceilings, multiple levels including a platform for the band, flooring, water and gas connections to support full-service toilets and kitchens. Tent construction starts in July and the largest ones can seat roughly 6,000 guests inside. The servers are talented hospitality staff who can juggle numerous liters of beer at once and attend to the requests of roughly 6 million Oktoberfest visitors annually to provide a memorable experience.

Among those visitors are kids. Many family-friendly activities abound at Oktoberfest, welcoming children of all ages, as we discovered when we took our 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old son to the wiesn last year. It’s not uncommon to see parents pushing along prams or toting tots in kangaroo carriers…as the adults carry a brew in hand.

TL DR: Don’t take your kids to Oktoberfest if you want all other festivals to pale in comparison afterwards. My kids had a blast dressing up in traditional Bavarian wear, spinning on the carnival rides, listening to live bands and scarfing down spoonfuls of sweet kaiserchmarrn, deconstructed fluffy pancakes doused in a sugary fruit compote. It’s safe to say München’s Oktoberfest set the standard pretty high for all other festivals going forward.

The Backdrop

My husband’s friend wanted to host a belated “bachelor party” at Munich’s Oktoberfest(He was already married by then with a child, but Covid had postponed his stag events). Given that some of the bros were already married with kids, the “groom” let his friends know that the event did have family-friendly activities in case the guys wanted to bring their wives and kids on an international trip while they men met up for the bachelor activities.

You didn’t have to tell me twice. That was an invitation.

The Logistics- Tips for Attending Oktoberfest with Kids

Given I would be solo parenting internationally while my husband was at bachelor events, I wanted to keep things as easy as possible. Here’s what I suggest:

• Book a table in advance. It’s not necessary, but there may be some waiting around for a seat if you don’t, depending on the tent you choose and the time at which you visit. I wanted a hassle-free, complete experience, so I booked a table and meal service through Oktoberfest Reservations.
• Verify the booking website. There are many booking websites and some are fraudulent. I felt good about Oktoberfest Reservations because I received prompt responses, and I noticed that they had corporate clients as well. I may have paid more than I should have, but in my view, this was the price to pay for a guaranteed, safe, high-quality experience. In Munich, the host provided by this service took us to our table at the Hofbrau tent (one of the most popular and lively tents of the wiesn) not only provided information about the festival, but also kept my kids entertained with coloring for a few minutes when she saw me solo-parenting while Jis was with the bachelor group.
• Go before 6 p.m.: Children under 6 aren’t allowed in the tents after 8 p.m., but that’s typically bedtime for most children anyway. Strollers are turned away (not even allowed to be checked in) by 6 p.m.
• Carry cash and coins for the rides. Card is accepted for food and beverage inside the tents, but you’ll want change for the carnival rides. You’ll whiz through those Euros as fast as your kids can spin, so keep a pouch of $1 Euro handy.
• Be ready to check-in your stroller. You can bring the stroller to help navigate the outdoor parts of wiesn, and I recommend it, but inside the tents, no strollers allowed.
• Take bottled water if your kids are picky. By default, the water served at the wiesn was sparkling water, which didn’t work for my kids.
• Keep noise-reducing headphones on hand. For smaller children or those sensitive to sound, carry noise-cancelling headphones. My kids didn’t have a problem, but they were 2 and 4. For one portion of the event, my son was actually napping through the noise.
• Carry another activity like coloring books or puzzles. After a couple hours seated at the table in the tent, they will get bored if you’re still working on your liter of beer.

They frolicked through the carnival rides

The most fun aspect of the festival for kids are the rides, and we’re not talking about just a Ferris wheel or go-karts. I was amazed at the number of attractions including mini roller coasters, dizzying pendulums, hovering slingshots, bumper cars, virtual reality coasters and a number of other illuminated spinning contraptions that whirred children around in rides comparable to Disney. The Oktoberfest team does not mess around: rides take months to construct from scratch.

As my son napped in the double stroller, my daughter enjoyed a few rounds on the aviation-themed merry-go-round where she was spun around swiftly inside a miniature helicopter.

They munched their way through München fare

Fresh multi-grain rolls that fit in your hand and crunchy crudites like radishes with creamy cheese dips were the fun finger foods my kids loved.

And which kid doesn’t love mac-and cheese and pancakes? The Bavarians elevate these with their Käsespätzle, a cheesy pasta with carmelized onion, and their ooey gooey kaiserchmarrn, which translates into “the emperor’s mess” given it is decomposed into bite-sized pieces and smothered in a thick fruit sauce.

Of course, there’s also regular carnival foods like funnel cakes, pretzels and more at the fairgrounds.

They posed oh-so-adorably in their Bavarian garb

Kids love costumes, and getting into traditional garb is a must for the volksfest. It is not considered offensive — it is encouraged, and you’re going to feel left out if you don’t partake since Oktoberfest is a celebration of Bavarian culture. It’s cheaper to order a costume online or stop by a store further away from the festival to get your getup. Shops closer to the wiesn are likely to charge more. For adults, it’s possible to get affordable adult versions online starting at $50-60, but when you see the crowd, you’ll wish you had purchased an authentic one made of high-quality material.

I just so happened to have kid-sized outfits available thanks to my parents having bought these as souvenirs on a recent trip to Austria.

Males wear lederhosen, short breeches and suspenders made of leather, and women wear a dirndl, a tied up bodice, white blouse, skirt and apron (the bodice and skirt typically come as a single piece together). Of course, the more authentic and rich material your attire is made of, the better. A decent adult dirndl or lederhosen set will start around $100. Outfits can get quite elaborate depending on the fabrics and detail of embroidery.

For myself, I made the mistake of thinking I could purchase a basic white apron and call it a day– when I got to the wiesn I felt major FOMO and the very next day, I purchased a proper dirndl in a shop. Though I knew I would only get one use out of it, I considered this to be my souvenir from the trip. Plus the variety of fabrics, richness in textures, colors and patterns in which these were available reminded me of the range we see in sari shops in India.

They delighted in live music and entertainment

Within each tent, a live brass band renders traditional oompah music, and on the stages outside of the tents, there are magic shows and puppetry presented by the Schichtl variety theater. These demonstrations offer a PG-rated vaudevillian-esque show poking fun at members in the crowd or oddities on stage.

They (could have) danced at the Oide Wiesn

There is a section of the wiesn, referred to as the Oide Wiesn, or the “old wiesn” which offers a tamer, more authentic atmosphere. Here, you’ll be able to hear some of the more traditional folk songs and eat even more traditional foods (like chicken giblets), and festival hosts invite guests – including kids- to participate in group folk dances on a central dance floor. We didn’t stop by the Oide Wiesn, but I heard they also have games for kids.

Real Talk

Let me not paint a completely rosy picture either. Two things for families traveling with kids were less than ideal for me:

First, since you can’t bring the kids into the tents after dark, you will miss out on some of the wilder vibe of Oktoberfest, making you wonder if you indeed experienced Oktoberfest to its full extent. My husband, who stayed for nighttime events at the Hofbrau tent told me it was a different ambiance in the evening, so if this is something you truly want to experience, don’t take kids with you on your Oktoberfest trip. I initially felt a little FOMO when I heard this, but I got over it fast because I felt I had experienced 90% of the event.

Second, while the outside carnival rides are fun for kids, it is also a reason they won’t sit still inside the tents. My kids enjoyed the atmosphere in the tents for the first hour or so, but after that, they got bored and kept asking to go back outside on the rides. Just as I would when taking my kids to a restaurant, I had brought coloring books and pencils to keep them entertained. However, even this didn’t keep them completely occupied, and eventually I gave them screen time so that I could relax.

Bottom line

I don’t regret taking my kids to the festival. Octoberfest now elicits different images for me: my daughter laughing on the spinning helicopter ride and my son peering over the festival grounds in amazement from the top of the Ferris wheel. Now, every time we tell my kids we are going to a festival, my daughter says, “Like in Germany?” We have to say, “Not quite, but it will still be fun.”

Sizzlin’ Summer Picks

(Click the titles to view the full blog post on each entry)

A heat wave has swept the east coast and midwest, and we have reached peak temps just in time for the Summer Solstice, the official start of summer and the longest day of the year. Family summer vacations are in full swing, but rising temps can make for uncomfortable –and even inconvenient– summer travel. (High temperatures can prevent pilots from taking off and cause delays).

Beat the heat and summer lethargy with this roundup of breezy beach getaways, mountain escapes, light summer bites and workouts that lean into the best of what the season has to offer.

Wellness- Sweat it Out

Your air-conditioned Airbnb, trails and museums, and even world-class nightclubs offer a multitude of ways for you to keep it moving even when you’re vacationing! But take it from a brown girl who managed to get sunburned and bitten, just make sure to slather on a generous coat of bug spray and sunscreen before you step outside, and hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

My Love-Hate Relationship with Bikram Yoga

People spend a lot of money to do yoga in a heated studio, but now that the heat outside is inescapable, why not move that yoga mat outdoors to get your stretch on? I prefer the 26×2 Bikram sequence when I‘m seeking strength, balance, and flexibility.

How to Get a Full-Body Workout at Home

If stifling heat isn‘t your thing, keep it climate-controlled with this routine you can do at home or in your hotel room. This first came in handy for me during the 2017 hurricane season, during COVID, and during work trips when time was limited.

How to Make Fit Feel Fabulous on Vacation (+ the cruise edition)

Don’t derail your healthy habits from spring when you’re traveling this summer. Instead, remember these tips to stay active while taking advantage of your destination’s attractions.

Summer Getaways

Whether you’re packing into the car for a road trip or flying overseas, summer is peak travel season for all the right reasons. The kids are out of school and work is at a mid-year lull. Our favorite summer destinations are those that allow you to still your mind at higher elevations, or along the shoreline to find calm in the sound of waves.

Mountains & Peaks

Pacific Northwest

Touch, see, and sniff your way through the Olympic Peninsula‘s black sand beaches, mossy Hoh Rainforest, teetering vistas and fragrant lavender fields.

Banff & Jasper, Canada

The wilderness of Alberta is an animal-lover’s dream, and the shale promontories of the Canadian Rockies will take your breath away.

Grand Teton, Wyoming

The imposing Teton range looms above the Snake River Valley, pristine lakes, and flourishing alpine forests.

Hong Kong

Peer over the Pearl of the Orient from Victoria‘s Peak towards Hong Kong‘s glittering skyline. Engage in retail therapy at the swarming night market or find reprieve in the sleepy Tai’O Fishing Village and steps of the Po’Lin Monastery.  

Mexico City

The Latin American capital sits in between two mountain ranges. Feel cool breezes year-round at an elevation of roughly 8,000 feet as you wine and dine your way through Roma and Polanco or dive into Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo’s collections.

Spokane

Catch the chilly spray of the largest urban waterfall in this underestimated university town that offers a range of family-friendly activities.

By the Sea

Jekyll Island

Georgia‘s barrier island provides a calming respite for those looking to escape the city buzz. One can go horseback riding along the sands of Driftwood Beach or glimpse into the lifestyles of the rich and famous at the Jekyll Islands Club Resort, the historic summer retreat for some of America’s wealthiest tycoons.

Hawaii (U.S.)

It doesn‘t get hotter than Hawaii‘s Volcanoes National Park. The bubbling caldera can be viewed from a safe distance, or the lucky few can witness lava falling into the sea. Otherwise, catch the surf along Waikiki in Hawaii’s “gathering” isle.

Guam (U.S.)

The unsullied shore of Ritidian Beach or the jagged coastline of Pagat are the ideal remote getaways to find quiet moments on the U.S. territory. Melt away your stress as you swim through coral outcroppings or float above rainbow reefs.

***Travel Updates ***

Online passport renewal is back in the U.S. Learn more about the requirements here.

Airbnb’s new cancellation policy lets guests cancel reservations before or mid-trip for a refund if there is an unexpected event.

The national parks are offering free admission on special days, with three remaining this year: August 4, September 28, and November 11. Book your travel now!

Light Bites

My favorite summer recipes are light, refreshing, and juicy to keep you hydrated through the summer.

• Satisfying Salads
• Tomatillo Gazpacho
• Broccoli & Kale Soup
• Summer Corn Soup
• Pear & Gorgonzola Flatbread

Around Atlanta

Hot Nights and Cool Nosh

• Chateau Elan Winery – Sip sweet summer wines in a palatial milieu
• Gaslight Roswell  – Dance the night away to millennial favorites in the Atlanta ‘burbs
• Painted Pickle – Toast a frothy beverage al fresco on their fully-covered patio
• Pricci & Chops – Try seasonal menus featuring Georgia peaches in craft cocktails, desserts, and summer salads.

*** Atlanta Updates ***

• Vegan gourmet bakery Cinnaholic opens a new location in Crabapple on June 28.
• On June 26, Dekalb Mall is kicking off a transformation into Lulah Hills, a new multi-use community with retail, restaurants, and entertainment.
• Summer Solstice yoga events take place June 21 & June 22 in East Atlanta Village. Register here.

When I was growing up, vacations with my family were usually to Asia-Pacific destinations as stopovers on our annual trips to India. It was important to my parents that my sister and I stay close to our roots, so yearly trips to the motherland were standard during our summer holidays. My sister and I would complain of the heat, lack of air conditioning, mosquitos, and general boredom from not having our friends or favorite T.V. shows. To make these trips more enticing, my dad would add some new city to the itinerary, and sometimes it involved luxury experiences: The Princeville Resort in Kauai, the Intercontinental Resort Bali, Sheraton Grand Laguna Phukhet —places that I probably wouldn’t take my own kids today.

So after marriage, when my husband suggested a cabin retreat and spending our first wedding anniversary exploring California’s outdoor wonders, I wasn’t particularly enthusiastic. Shouldn’t we be spending our anniversary at a 5-star hotel in a romantic city?

But he was so eager to show me places that he had visited during his solo, pre-marriage road trip across the U.S. that I obliged. Plus, the pictures that I had seen of Yosemite looked interesting, and at least I might have a chance to see black bears, I thought (I am obsessed with seeing wildlife).

Awestruck

Props to Jis for taking me to Yosemite to start us off strong. It’s the same park that beckoned to naturalist John Muir, inspiring him to devote a career to understanding and protecting the country’s natural riches. Photos could not prepare me for the sheer majesty that is the Sierra Nevada range.

To say that this single, one-week trip through mountain, desert and seaside landscapes of California exponentially raised my reverence and love for the great outdoors would be an understatement. The only other time this had happened to me was when I lived in Guam and visited a remote corner of Ritidian beach. It’s the kind of beauty that lingers with you even months after you’ve left its physical presence, like the touch of clandestine lover you’re certain you’ll never feel again. So you lust after it, scheming ways to encounter it once more.

Yosemite National Park

We flew into San Jose and drove three and half hours east to get to Yosemite.

The drive from San Jose to the valley offered an assortment of scenery, from parched waves of golden hills dappled with windmills, to lush farmlands rich with olive, grape, citrus and squash crops flourishing along the Sierra foothills. I didn’t tire of driving past the farms since each cultivated a different type of produce. Nearing the national park, cell phone reception became spotty- a feature that has now become one my favorites as I seek to disconnect from work on vacations.

We spent the next couple of days strolling among giants in the sequoia groves, trekking the trails up surging waterfalls, and chasing that golden hour glow bouncing off the chiseled faces of Tunnel View.

Forget Paris, Rome, or Barcelona— by the end of the trip, we vowed to spend our July Fourth wedding anniversary thereafter exploring national parks. It’s not that I hadn’t encountered natural beauty before, but some views and experiences leave you unequivocally certain that a higher power exists, else this magnitude of natural beauty could not. For me, visiting Yosemite National Park was one of those moments, and since then, I’ve been hooked.

Now, through the course of my 36 years with my parents, Jis, and now my kids, I’ve visited 21 U.S. National Parks including some of the heavy hitters. It’s been hard to top the experiences each year, but there’s still Acadia, Joshua Tree, North Cascades, Katmai… Note that my ranking skews favorably towards mountain scenery and cooler weather, and I am particularly drawn to places where wildlife thrives. Below is my ranking of the 21 American national parks that I have visited. Don’t worry, Denali, I’m saving a milestone year for you.

#1 Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

It is my dream to retire in Jackson Hole, Wyoming so I can wake up to the jagged peaks of the Tetons just like alpinist and National Geographic photographer Jimmy Chin. While I am no mountain climber, I was drawn to this gorgeous range that looms above the Snake River Valley, pristine lakes, and abundant forests, where the scent of pine surrounds you.

We visited Grand Teton and Yellowstone parks with another couple for our second wedding anniversary. I, of course, was on a quest to see grizzlies, so we would wake up early most days to scan for wildlife at dusk. We had no luck in seeing grizzlies, but we saw many elk and caught a fleeting glimpse of a moose while driving along a waterway one morning.
(Read my full Grand Teton post and recommendations here.)

#2 Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

Yellowstone, America’s first national park, is a geothermal hotbed sputtering with chutes of geysers, bubbling hot springs, and technicolor thermal pools. The most famous of these attractions is Old Faithful, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes, and the Grand Prismatic Spring. The park’s diverse ecosystems are home to an abundance of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison. (Wolves were reintroduced as apex predators to the park in 1995 to keep elk populations in check.)

The historic Old Faithful Inn is one of the more classy accommodations in this park, and it has also earned the accolade of largest log structure in the world.

We visited Yellowstone during the same trip when we visited the Tetons and found ourselves breathless from catching the rose hues of dawn at Lamar and Hayden Valleys — and whiffs of sulphur emanating from the live super volcano. I can’t wait to take my kids to this park in a few years so they can experience the wildlife and geothermal activity firsthand.

(Read my complete post on Yellowstone National Park)

#3: Yosemite National Park (California)

Muir had it right when he said the mountains of Yosemite were calling. This park is renowned for its steep cliffs, roaring waterfalls, and dizzying sequoia trees, some of which have been standing for over 3,000 years. Yosemite is usually at the top of most national park rankings, and I would have no problem visiting multiple times. El Capitan and Half Dome are among the park’s most famous landmarks, attracting climbers and hikers from around the world.

During my two visits to the park, we did the Mist Trail up to Vernal and Nevada Falls, and the Four Mile Trail from Glacier Point to the base of the valley. From the latter, you get a spectacular view of Reverse Tunnel View.

#4. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

You’re probably starting to see a trend in the parks at the top of this list. Mountains and volcanoes in particular have a certain allure for me, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island is no exception. On three occasions now I have had the good fortune of seeing lava, including on my very first visit when I saw lava just feet away from me, crawling like molasses towards the sea. Then, on my last visit, as if it were a scene from a movie, I watched the Kilauea Caldera bubbling like a witch’s cauldron. Everyone around me witnessing the same just stood speechless while the lava churned.

Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano, has been erupting continuously since 1983, making it one of the most accessible erupting volcanoes in the world. To be able to witness the raw power of nature, where plumes of steam rise from the Earth’s molten core, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even if you don’t get a chance to see the volcano in action, walking across the charcoal terrain and through old lava tubes is enough to put our humble existence into perspective.

# 5. Glacier National Park (Montana)

If Yellowstone offered the most quantity of wildlife (numbers), Glacier (and Banff and Jasper in Canada) offer the most variety I have seen. Glacier National Park in Montana is a wilderness of alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and turquoise lakes. The park is renowned for its stunning vistas along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, where you can see centuries-old glaciers clinging to mountainsides. The additional attraction for me? The park has the highest concentration of grizzly bears in the contiguous U.S.

When we visited in 2022, we saw many cinnamon black bears, a bull moose swimming across a river and emerging onto the banks, and several mountain goats. As luck would have it, my husband and kids did see a grizzly from the safety of the car during the 45 minutes that I walked a trail (armed with bear spray) to a waterfall hoping to see a bear from a safe distance.

The Going-to-the Sun road was under construction during our visit, so each day we would drive two hours around the south rim of the park from the western to eastern side just so that I could maximize my chances of seeing wildlife in the Many Glacier Valley area. It was worth it.

#6. Mr. Rainier National Park (Washington)

I like to call Mt. Rainier the modest maiden since the fickle Washington State weather and cloud cover form a veil across her peak. The active stratovolcano is encased in ice, a marked contrast to the verdant meadows dotted with a rainbow of wildflowers during the summer months. Waterfalls abound along the mountainsides of Rainier, considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world. It continues to be closely monitored by scientists for any signs of volcanic activity.

The tallest volcano in the Cascade range, it last erupted about 150 years ago. Native Americans had many names for it, including Tahoma or “snowy peak.” 

(Here’s out weeklong itinerary for the Pacific Northwest.)

#7. Zion National Park (Utah)

Zion National Park in Utah features imposing sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and a mix of evergreen forests. The park’s most famous hike, Angel’s Landing, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape– and is on my bucket list. We visited Zion as one fleeting stop during a trip to the Four Corners Region of the U.S. It was approaching dusk, and parking spots were scarce by the time we arrived. I remember thinking, however, how the stone promontories of Zion reminded me of Yosemite’s summits, so I fell in love instantly.

Zion National Park’s narrow canyons were formed by the Virgin River over millions of years, creating some of the most picturesque landscapes in the country.

#8. Olympic National Park (Washington)

Driftwood lay strewn across the sands of Ruby Beach, named as such because of the reddish crystals that surface here and there. A lucky few even find agates among the pebbled shoreline that forms an edge of Olympic National Park. The misty mountains, black sand beaches, temperate rainforests sheathed in tendrils of moss and super-sized ferns were like scenes from a dream — even moreso for me because I am guilty of reading the Twilight Saga, which is set against this very backdrop.

We made the trip out during the 2020 pandemic for our fifth wedding anniversary. I didn’t have to worry about tanning along these shores–overcast skies are the norm in the Pacific Northwest. Our daughter enjoyed picking up pebbles long the beach, and we carried her on our back as we hiked the trails through the Hoh Rainforest.

(Grab our complete itinerary for the Olympic Peninsula)

#9. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with its towering peaks, alpine lakes, and meandering rivers. Trail Ridge Road offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with the opportunity to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep and elk. Skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are popular activities.

We visited during a Memorial Day Weekend and enjoyed exploring the town of Estes as well. One of the most interesting things we noticed in Estes were the population of Nepali people. One storekeeper told us of how there is a well-established community of Nepali people in Estes Park. He said due to unfortunate natural disasters in their home country many Nepali people migrated to the U.S. and settled in the Colorado town that reminded them of the scenery back home.

(Check out the perks of visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in the shoulder season.)

#10. Bryce Canyon (Utah)

Terra cotta minarets reach like fingers towards the clouds at Bryce Canyon National Park, which we visited as part of a Thanksgiving trip to the Four Corners region. One of the most impressive and interesting features of this park are the lofty hoodoos, spires formed through frost wedging: water flows into crevices in the rock, and as it freezes, widens the gaps. The geological features here are astounding: Bryce Canyon marks the top of the “Grand Staircase,” the ascending, multicolor layers of sedimentary rock that have caked together over millions of years. At the other end, the Grand Canyon is the lowest point of the staircase.

#11. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

The Grand Canyon, located in Arizona, is a breathtaking natural wonder carved by the mighty Colorado River. Stretching for 277 miles, the canyon’s vastness is truly awe-inspiring. Jis and I visited in February 2015 when he was doing a clinical pharmacy rotation in Phoenix. We did a mule ride along the southern rim trail for incredible panoramic views. But this encounter made me realize I am not cut out for trusting another animal with my life at such heights.

The next time we visit, I’d like to spend a few more days so we can hike to the bottom of the canyon and back.

#12. Saguaro National Park (Arizona)

Despite the fact we visited in the midst of a brutal heatwave in July, Saguaro National Park in Arizona has still been one of the more unique and beautiful parks that I have visited.

Our trip to the American West made for a patriotic July Fourth getaway, taking in the country’s largest cacti. The park’s namesake, the giant saguaro cactus, can reach heights of up to 40 feet and live for more than 150 years.

Did I mention I was eight months pregnant with my son? I hiked my dress up (there was no way I was going to wear pants in that heat), tried to find shade in the shadow of a saguaro, and guzzled bottles of water to stay as hydrated as possible. We cooled off at the indoor exhibits of the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, but braved the heat to wove through the stroller-friendly path to view animals that are typically found in the Sonora Desert ecosystem.

#13. Haleakala National Park (Maui, Hawaii)

Haleakalā National Park, located on the island of Maui in Hawaii, is known for its otherworldly volcanic landscapes. Watch the sunrise from the summit of the Haleakalā Crater, where the colors of dawn paint the sky in a breathtaking display. Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, from the summit to the coastal Kīpahulu area.

I probably would have ranked this higher along with the other volcanoes and mountains, except that I don’t remember my visit too well. I guess that just means it warrants a return visit to cement the memory!

#14. Great Smoky Mountain National Park (Tennessee)

Straddling the North Carolina-Tennessee border, the Great Smoky Mountains are the closest national park to us, so we frequent it for weekend cabin getaways with friends and family. It is renowned for its ancient mountains, diverse wildlife, and remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture. Visitors can explore miles of trails, including a section of the famed Appalachian Trail.

Apparently, it is the most visited national park in the U.S. (11 million visitors per year), and is quickly becoming our most visited park as well. While the undulating landscape is no match for the sharp summits of the Sierra Nevada or Rockies, it serves as our easily accessible mountain retreat when we need to scratch the itch to be in the wilderness.

in July 2018, when I was nauseated while pregnant with my daughter, we opted for a simple overnight stay in the Smokies just to fulfill our annual national park tradition. It was drive-able. Just as we checked out of our cabin on July 5th, we spotted a black bear smack-dab in the middle of the road, which made this trip all the more worthwhile.

#15. Sequoia, King’s Canyon (California)

Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are home to the world’s largest trees, the giant sequoias. One can marvel at the General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on Earth, or explore underground caves, rugged foothills, and the scenic high country. We visited in June 2018 with my husband’s family, and we climbed up the 400-step staircase through boulders to reach the top of Moro Rock, a granite dome. From there, you can see the mountain range of the Western Divide, though the view of Mt. Whitney, the highest mountain in the lower 48, is obstructed by the other peaks.

#16. Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)

Mesa Verde National Park, in Colorado, is home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the United States. Aside from the endless panoramic views of various mountain ranges from the top of the Mesa, I was impressed by the ancient cliff dwellings, including the famous Cliff Palace.

The park was established in 1906 to preserve the archaeological sites of the Ancestral Puebloans. As we visited during the Thanksgiving holiday, I thought it most appropriate to be at Mesa Verda to celebrate the resourcefulness, skill, and hardiness of ancient Native American civilizations. Simply incredible.

#17. Great Sand Dunes (Colorado)

It’s hard to tell where the sand stops and the snow begins at Great Sand Dunes National Park, which features the tallest sand dunes in North America. Like angled brush strokes, the dunes billow up, rising more than 750 feet against the snow capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains. A powdery film dusted the wind-swept dunes when we visited one Thanksgiving creating dramatic scenery where we took several pictures. Next visit: Sledding down those slopes!

#18. Everglades National Park (Florida)

This one makes it to the lower end of the list because I’d already experienced the Florida swamps for 21 years of my life. Still, I want to give the Everglades credit for its vast wetlands, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and the elusive Florida panther.

We visited during a Thanksgiving trip to South Florida, and were not able to take the boat tour through the mangrove forests — that’s for next time. We did spot several gators, so of course, I considered the visit a win.

#19. Painted Desert at Petrified National Forest (Arizona)

The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona is known for its large deposits of petrified wood, fossils, and multi-color desert badlands. Petrified wood is fossilized and eventually turns into a mineral composition that maintains the original ring structure of wood, creating beautifully patterned stones including jasper, agate and chalcedony deposits.

While I collected rocks in my childhood and am always interested in viewing gemstones, my view of this park is colored by the fact that we visited when I was less than a month away from delivering my son — and the region was experiencing an intolerable heat wave. I barely made it out of the car for pictures. Instead, I lay reclined in the front seat, my summer dress pulled up over my knees and the car’s air-con blasting to the max.

#20. Mammoth Caves National Park (Kentucky)

Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is home to the world’s longest known cave system. It is the longest cave system in the world, with over 400 miles of explored passageways, and new discoveries still being made.

We made the day trip to Kentucky when we were visiting Nashville one spring weekend. We took a guided tour to explore the underground labyrinth of caves, and ran our fingers over the cool, grooved walls of the caverns.

#21. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)

Of all the parks, this to me was the most boring and repellant — I would know, because I doused myself in some while visiting. Located in South Carolina, this park is primarily known for having the largest and tallest deciduous hardwood forests left in the United States.

Out of sheer necessity that year, we sought a park within driving distance. I was determined to keep our tradition going even if it meant this Gator had to visit a swamp in Gamecock country. But visiting this swamp at the height of summer for our fourth anniversary was excruciating. I lasted a whole 15 minutes inside the park to take a photo, and promptly left.

If you ever go, don’t forget to bathe in citronella first. Pictured: a heavily edited photo taken just outside the park. I was too busy keeping my daughter safe from mosquitoes and trying not to run into banana spiders’ webs to take any photos from within.

—-

From the looming peaks of the Grand Tetons to the layer cake sediments of Bryce Canyon, the U.S. National Parks offer a multitude of natural wonders to explore. Now, as we visit each, we are able to have our kids partake in the wonderment. We hope that they appreciate our country’s natural treasures as much as we have and use these wilderness retreats to rejuvenate and connect with a force greater than all of us.

How would you rank them? I want to know!

Do you disagree with my ranking or have a recommendation for a park that I haven’t yet visited? Let me know in the comments which parks are your favorite and why.

Some destinations bring you closer to the heavens, others make you feel more grounded. The fertile farmlands and thick rainforests of Central America’s “rich coast” represent the latter of the two, exuding an earthy richness. Beachside bungalows and mountain villas here are less a symbol of exclusivity than they are a demonstration of the people’s deep-seated connection to their surroundings.

In Costa Rica, Mother Nature’s embrace is inescapable.

Pura Vida: A Way of Life

Ask any person from Costa Rica, or “Tico,” and you’ll get a different definition of what pura vida means, from serving as a universal greeting or farewell, a thank you, or expression uttered in passing; it’s a reference to the simple life, “a way to be in harmony,” “an option to see everything in the positive,” locals said. For me, it represented seizing the moment and making the best of our circumstances.

Costa Rica had been on my bucket list for years, but it was a destination that I imagined would need at least 10 days to explore sufficiently. I’d keep putting the trip off to wait for “a good time.”

However, when my kids’ spring break rolled around and we still hadn’t landed on a vacation destination, we seized the low fares to San Jose on budget carriers, booking a short trip packed with activities. It was time to make my Costa Rican dream a reality.

Download the itinerary:

Logistics

Our trip was four days to the Alajuela region in the middle of April, considered the dry season in Costa Rica. Four days is not enough to take in all that the country has to offer, so I suggest finding one region to focus your activities if your stay is short. The Arenal volcano was the most picturesque to me, so I honed in there, booking tours through Viator with Canoa Aventura and Sloth Watching Trails.

Simplicity was our approach to all logistics. We flew Spirit Airlines roundtrip. It was my first time flying Spirit, and I prayed we wouldn’t miss our connection through Ft. Lauderdale. Luckily, the flight left on time, and given the aircraft’s minimalistic design, the skinnier seat cushions actually allowed for more legroom.

We stayed at a locally run guest house, the Aunty Arenal Lodge, which was extremely affordable, offered views of Arenal from the property, and had a beautifully landscaped pool with hammock seating and a waterfall into the kiddie pool. Our two-bedroom guest house came with a kitchenette, which was useful while traveling with kids. Although the lodge owners did not speak English and we didn’t get hot water on one day, we didn’t mind because the staff were friendly, switched our room immediately, and threw in a free breakfast. It was the local, frills-free experience I had expected from lodging in this region.

We spent the last night of our stay at the Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana, located in the country’s capital. It was much more comfortable, but lacked the provincial charm and family feel of the guest house.

In the end, I was completely satisfied with how the trip turned out and that we booked it when we did. It was the right time for us, and we managed to experience a lot during four days in Costa Rica without feeling shortchanged.

How to Spend Four Days in Costa Rica Without Feeling Shortchanged

Weave Through Haciendas Along the Hillsides

Descent into San Jose reveals mountainous terrain carpeted in coffee farms.

Rows upon rows of these trees file the rolling hills along the road to La Fortuna, a small town at the base of Arenal. The journey is scenic, reminiscent of the drive to Ooty in India’s Nilgiri Hills.

A number of points of interest line this route, including the La Paz waterfall, Poas Volcano Park, and the Starbucks Hacienda Alsacia. The Starbucks hacienda is the first and only Starbucks coffee farm in Costa Rica and focuses on sustainable practices and innovation. From here, Starbucks cultivates research by educating small-scale coffee farmers on best practices to nourish disease resistant, premium quality coffee.

To date, Starbucks has already cultivated a half-dozen climate change-resistant tree varieties that produce Arabica, the primary bean that Costa Rica harvests and which has become threatened by global warming, according to Starbucks. Two days later, we would learn that Costa Rica exclusively harvests Arabica beans to position itself as a premium coffee producer. The more bitter Robusta bean, which is cheaper to produce but of lower quality, was banned from harvest and production in Costa Rica until 2018 when the country faced diseased Arabica crops. Robusta beans are generally produced in Vietnam, Brazil, India and Indonesia.

It was dark by the time we arrived at the Aunty Arenal Lodge, so it wasn’t until the next morning that we realized just how close we were to the volcano.

Trek across volcanic terrain and through rainforests

The squawking of macaws, whooping of motmots and howler monkeys announce the dawn’s arrival to the rest of the rainforest: Pura vida, and behold your first views of the country’s iconic volcano.

Costa Rica is home to more than 60 volcanoes, and one out of ten of them are active. The Arenal Volcano was the most active until roughly 15 years ago, last erupting in 1968, but experiencing activity in 2010.

A morning trek along the Lava Trail through the Silencio Estate offers some of the best views of the volcano. You sense the forces of nature as you step along overgrown trails in the jungle, nourished by the fertile soil that has been fed by ancient lava flows. The trail peaks at a vista where you can view the imposing Arenal towering over the verdant landscape.

After hiking to the viewpoint, we caught our breath along the flatter banks of the Green Lake, named as such for the thick film of algae that has bloomed across its surface.

Sweat gleaming off of our faces and necks, we quenched our thirst with freshly cut fruit offered by our guides, knowing that we would have a better chance to cool off at our next stop, La Fortuna Waterfall.

The falls plunge 200 feet into a teal pool below. Tourists gather at its base for a midday respite. The brief hike down to the waterfall is steep but short, rewarding visitors with the sight and sound of rushing water and the chance for a refreshing swim.

Continue rainforest adventures by swaying through the treetops like the spider monkeys at the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, a nature preserve with a network of interpretive trails. The park includes six bridges suspended by steel cables, offering a unique vantage point over the rainforest canopy. If I hadn’t been carrying my napping son over each bridge, this trail would have been a breeze.

We were impressed by the sheer volume and variety of plant and animal species thriving in the preserve. We spotted a toucan, a coati, several spider monkeys, and a sloth lounging among the branches many yards above us.

Though my neck and back were aching from carrying my son, the visit was worth experiencing the Costa Rican jungle and encountering so much wildlife.

Scope for sloths in the treetops

Vibrant toucans glide swiftly overhead as you keep your eyes peeled for Costa Rica’s national animal curled up high in the moss-laden trees.

Scoping for sloths is one of the most popular attractions in the country, and the easily accessible Bogarin Trail in La Fortuna almost guarantees you a sighting. These torpid critters, which are related more closely to anteaters than they are to monkeys, remain perched in the rainforest canopy, descending to the floor only about once a week to relieve themselves. They are so well camouflaged and so high in the trees that the best way to view them is with a guide equipped with a telescope, lest you mistake them for nests in the branches.

Our Sloth Watching Trail guide pointed out several two-toed and three-toed sloths wound lazily around tree branches or wrapped up cuddling their babies.

Beyond searching for sloths, you’ll want to keep an eye out for other wildlife as well. Unlike the sloths, the toucans that coasted above us and the basilisk that crossed our path moved so quickly we couldn’t snap a proper photo.

Sip Costa Rican coffee– straight from the source

Adjacent to the Bogarin Trail is a coffee and cocoa plantation, where our guides provided fascinating insights into the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. We learned the difference between the Robusta and Arabica beans, how local farmers deal with diseased crops, and roasting techniques that infuse the coffee with a stronger flavor v. more caffeine. Following our coffee tasting, we were shown how cocoa and sugar cane are harvested and mixed to produce chocolate. My kids particularly enjoyed that demonstration, which including sipping raw sugar cane juice.

Despite all of the caffeine and sugar, the humidity of the rainforest wore us out. In the evening, we returned to Aunty Arenal Lodge for a relaxing swim. The lodge’s pool, surrounded by tropical flora, was the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring. Dinner that night was at Saffron, where we enjoyed a welcome dose of spicy Indian cuisine.

Glimpse into history, gaze over San Jose

As if a symbol of the history and culture it preserves, the National History Museum in San Jose is housed in an old fortress, what used to be the former Bellavista Military Barracks. Its design and architecture reflect the country’s rich history and the artifacts which it holds.

In fact, many of San Jose’s main museum buildings are unique in their own right, though I was surprised to learn that the science center and children’s museum are located inside the site of an old prison.

At the National History Museum, the delicate entryway first takes visitors through an airy butterfly garden; It is a sharp contrast to the bullet-ridden walls of the fort.

Inside, chiseled gold artifacts are reminders of the conquest of Costa Rica, which started in the 1500s from the North Pacific side of the land. We learned of how Spanish conquerors enslaved the natives and sent them to work in Peru and Panama. The Spanish described the land as “the roughest mountains they had seen, but conquerors Juan de Cavallon and Juan Vasquez de Coronado managed to level the central region to make the terrain more apt for settlement and agriculture.

Armed with the Requerimiento, the Spanish justified their enslavement of the natives by converting them to Catholicism, and the Church became the social and economic engine for communities. Another wave of Spanish conquest and exploration of Costa Rica took place in the second half of the century, once gold deposits and native labor force were exhausted in other parts of Central America. However during this colonial period, cultivation and export of cocoa and tobacco to its primary recipient, England, did little to successfully position Costa Rica in the global economy. It wasn’t until 1821 when Costa Rica gained its independence, that it was able to modernize, use its coffee production and newfound agrarian capitalism to join the world market and shift its capital city from Cartago to San Jose, where coffee production was thriving.

Having rounded out our visit with a trip through Costa Rica’s historical archives, we returned to our hotel to spend the late afternoon unwinding on the terrace of the Hilton Garden Inn San Jose La Sabana, savoring panoramic views of the city as the sun dipped below the horizon.

Bottom Line

I’m usually guilty of putting off a pursuit or experience because I want to plan it out just right, or I don’t feel completely ready. But perfection can’t get in the way of the pursuit of happiness. It’s never going to be the right time, and you’ll never feel entirely ready. Booking and experiencing Costa Rica reminded me not to overthink situations. Take the plunge, do it now. Pura vida.

 Related Posts

• Mexico City 6 Ways: Attractions for Every Type of Traveler
• Discover the 4 Most Exciting Activities in Cartagena de Indias
• Where’s My Mofongo? The Best Vegetarian Eats in Puerto Rico

The sun has popped back out from behind the clouds, and gray skies have dissipated. It’s finally spring in Atlanta! All over the city, delicate white and pink blossoms are filling out tree branches, and puckered up tulips are unfolding to meet the sun’s kiss.

It’s the season to refresh and reset.

Tropical destinations and vitamin-rich foods rejuvenate us in spring after the dreary winter months ushered us indoors to indulge in rich comfort foods. Now’s the time for a spring reset.

Wellness – Reawaken the Senses

Spring Awakening: How to Reset Your Body for Spring

Outside of exercise, let go of winter tension, ailments, and mental stress with a reflexology, cryotherapy, or a physical therapy session. Hydrate with fruit-infused waters or teas, and remove dull skin with skincare and facial treatments that boost collagen and circulation. Spring is a season for rebirth, and you’ll need to start from the inside-out to feel like yourself again.

Simple Guide to Stress-Free Travel Planning

As you plan your trips for the year, take it step-by-step with this easy-to-follow guide for what you should be doing each month before your trip.

13 Natural Ways to Handle the Heath Strains of Travel

You shouldn’t have to take a vacation from your vacation. These are some natural ways for getting maximum relaxation from your travels.

Spring Destinations to Check Out

Our favorite spring destinations offer much to do whether you are spending a long weekend or an entire week. Short air travel and outdoor festivals make these ideal for family vacations.

Chicago

Well after the river is dyed green for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, the Windy City draws visitors to its sprawling parks and waterside spaces. Late spring is the ideal time to visit, when the weather is temperate and the sun beams onto the city’s glittering skyline.

Savannah

Savannah’s St. Patrick’s Day festival is also well known, but its charming town squares and shaded parks offers a relaxed weekend getaway for anyone looking to avail Southern hospitality.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Visiting during the slower season has its benefits. Your best chances of avoiding snow-blocked roads will be in late May.

Cartagena, Colombia

The rainbow streets of Getsemani and fresh fruit on display in the streets are sure to give you spring vibes. With all of the action-packed excursions available, this is one city that’s sure to get your blood pumping.

Hawaii – Oahu and the Big Island

For my West Coasters, this one is for you. Spring break experiencing the force of mother nature at Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, and all of Oahu’s scenic backdrops will be a trip to remember. Plus, it’s a much easier flight for you.

Mexico City
Avoid Cancun’s partygoer crowds for Cinco de Mayo and opt for the more diverse and artistic Mexican capital instead. The throbbing metropolis has something for everyone, and cool mountain breezes make this an ideal escape.

Puerto Rico

Lush rainforest and pulsing street beats will jolt you from spring right into summer.

Wholesome and Rejuvenating Spring Foods

In spring, I maximize the green intake with these recipes abundant with nutrients.

• Watercress Soup

• Cabbage with Coconut
• Ground Spinach with Coconut
• Zucchini Fritters with Yogurt Dill Dip
  
  

Atlanta Outdoors

Springtime Hikes, Trails and Places I love

• Gibbs Gardens
• Atlanta Beltline
• Piedmont Park
• Kennessaw Mountain
• Amicalola Falls & Springer Mountain
• Chattahoochee Riverwalk

Patio Dining I love (Vegetarian)

• Grace 1720 (Peachtree Corners)
• Postinos (Buckhead)
• North End (Roswell)
• Novo Cocina (Dunwoody)
• Figo Pasta (Vinings)
• The Cape Restaurant (Alpharetta)
• Village Tavern (Alpharetta)
• Serena Pastificio (Midtown)
• Moxie Burger (Roswell)

Related Posts

10 Scenic Trails and Day Hikes from Atlanta

Ultimate Seasonal Guide to Day Trips and Weekend Getaways from Atlanta

(This post is still under construction, but the itinerary stands! Check back soon for the full details and narrative.)

Visiting Madrid for the first half of our honeymoon was amazing. I enjoyed Madrid more than Paris, where we spent the second half of our honeymoon. This was primarily because we found the pace quieter and less frenetic. Madrid is a beautiful city and very walkable.

We stayed at the Madrid Airport Hilton. I had low expectations at first, given it was one of those hotels by the airport. However, it was ideal. Our room came with a full jacuzzi

Day 1

After checking into the hotel, freshening up and making use of the executive lounge, we went into the city, getting dropped off by cab at the Fountain of Cibellus.

From there we walked toward the Prado museum, making sure to check out the Fountain of Neptune on the way.

We spent a couple hours at the Prado, but to be honest, at first, Jis and I were not vey impressed based on the hype that this museum gets. It’s mentioned in the guide books as a “must see” and even my coworkers said it was a great museum that we shouldn’t miss, as it is world-renowned. Perhaps it was because we had very high expectations that it ended up being less impressive.

However,  we still enjoyed it, though we were more impressed by the Reina Sofia museum, which we visited later in the afternoon. I think this is primarily because we felt there was more variety in the art on display at Reina Sofia compared to the subject matter displayed at Prado. Either way, we wanted to visit both museums since they are major landmarks in Madrid.

We also visited the Jardin Botanico and enjoyed tapas in the Barrio de Las Letras neighborhood.

In the evening, we caught the sunset from the rooftop of the Circulo de Belles Artistes. This commanded a gorgeous panoramic view of Madrid, and is definitely a trendy hotspot for youngsters.

Day 2

Palacio Real

Plaza del Sol – The Puerta el Sol Square with the bear and tree statue (the emblem of Madrid). Very good shops for souvenirs in Plaza Mayor nearby.

Plaza Oriente

Plaza Mayor

Chocoloteria San Gines

Flamenco Show at Cardomomo

Passionate rhythms and soulful melodies of this traditional art form ignite the senses and stir the soul. Amidst the fiery footwork and haunting melodies, you and your beloved will be swept away on a journey of emotion and expression, leaving you breathless and exhilarated.

Greetings, and happy new year friends and family!

Since 2008, I have been sharing stories from my travels, work experiences, culinary experiments and fitness misadventures. The posts have not always been consistent, but it’s been a pursuit that I haven’t abandoned yet, and that makes me proud. 

Why do I do this?

Trust me, I ask myself this many times a year. There is no shortage of travel, food or wellness content on the Internet. As I am well aware, most of you are also avid travelers, skilled cooks, health nuts and well-rounded professionals juggling home and work life. 

…which is exactly why I share. To connect. With you. Because I feel we have similar interests and can share experiences and exchange notes. I just happen to do it through a blog because it serves as a creative outlet and personal diary for me to document these experiences for myself (yes, it’s indulgent) and for others, who could potentially learn something or find comfort in knowing they’re not alone. If, out of the one hundred people with whom I share this ONE feels a little less lonely, then I’d say that’s a win.

Seeking Connection

Life is flying by. Many of us, myself included at times, are plugged in to devices, watching each other’s highlight reels instead of picking up the phone to find out what’s really going on with each other. A cursory text message or postcard sent at the holidays is a great reminder of the people in our lives… but does little to fill our cup. 

While I am thrilled to see that seeking out mental health resources has become less stigmatized and I fully recognize that a number of complex environmental, social, and biological factors cause mental health issues, it’s also my opinion that one of the many reasons people are turning more to therapy and medication for depression and anxiety is because we are relying less on our immediate circles to vent, get moral support and learn coping mechanisms. We’ve become isolated. We don’t want to become vulnerable and share what’s really going on for fear of being judged, viewed as less successful, or bringing down the spirits of others. We say “I don’t want to burden others,” and others, in turn, say it’s not fair to “unload” your issues onto them. 

Then what are we all doing here? 

More than a year ago, I condemned social media for setting unrealistic expectations and bringing out the worst in many of us. I still think that’s the case. However, I’ve shifted my reaction to it by accepting it as art or entertainment— when you’re the one posting, your creative juices flow. You’re piecing together the video clips and choosing the right soundtrack to tell a story. When you’re the one consuming it, you’re looking for things that are beautiful, funny, inspiring or helpful (or in my case, falling for perfectly targeted Instagram ads). With that lens, I feel inoculated to its poisonous effects. 

But don’t be fooled. Reels are not reality. What you don’t see in my reel of Munich is my 4-year-old experiencing a 48-hour stomach bug. In my photos of golden San Francisco sunsets, you fail to see my separation anxiety from my kids. What’s missing from that Wifey Work From Home Wednesday reel are the iterations of gelatinous gobi manchurian that it took for me to finally get the exterior coat crispy (which lasted only 15 minutes by the way). I don’t share photos of friends with whom I’ve lost ties when I post a yoga pose about strengthening existing relationships. 

The journey

That’s what the blog is for. That’s where I get real and share the journey — when I manage to find the right words. In Transit is where I share with you more details because I’m betting that you might have experienced similar joys, triumphs, fear, awe, loss or celebration. 

Word of the Year: BUILD

Trying to find the perfect words between a full-time consulting job and family life has been a challenge, so in the spirit of taking you along for the journey, I’m changing my model and embracing the imperfect. I used to wait weeks, months, even years to complete a post, with 4-5 drafts sitting in my unpublished queue at any given time, and a list of 70 posts in the backlog that I need to “catch up” on. This year, my word of the year is “build”- whether that be self-confidence, knowledge and skills, my existing relationships, or this blog. I’m doing it the agile way: iterative, with the Minimum Viable Product out the door first, to be refined through the year. I hope that you’ll join me, or even better, reach out to share your thoughts and experiences. Feel free to share with anyone whom you think could benefit along their journey towards fulfillment, too. I look forward to growing with you, together.

2023 Recap

• Work travel took me to Mexico City, New York, and San Diego.  
• Our family enjoyed vacations in Blue Ridge, Chicago, Banff & Jasper National Parks, and Germany (Bavaria & Berlin)
• I wrote for Lonely Planet about Savannah and Kerala
• I wrote for Khabar Magazine about inspiring Indian-American female singers, a Grammy-nominated musical ensemble, a novelist and champion of representation, and how my interfaith family celebrates Diwali.
• I posted memories of my grandmother, who passed in 2023, Mardi Gras in New Orleans, a couple’s trip to San Francisco, a weekend in Jekyll Island, and my Skillet Veggie Quesadillas recipe.

2024 Content to Expect

• When Business Meets Pleasure in San Diego
• Why I Travel with My Kids
• A Kauai Babymoon
• Paris 20 Years Later: The Family v. Honeymoon Experience
• I took my kids to Munich’s Oktoberfest, and this is what happened…
• Do this in Iceland Instead
• Air-Fried Veggie Cutlets (My mother-in-laws recipe)
• Learning to cook from the women in my life
• Vegetarian Ratatouille

Check out my feature on Kerala’s backwaters, published in Lonely Planet’s “Joy of Quiet Places” coffee table book:

Like a pane of glass, the waters of Kumarakom stand motionless, reflecting the clouds above. Coconut trees peer over the more narrow waterways as if to catch their reflection in a mirror, only to have their view obstructed by the overgrowth of water hyacinths that have flourished rampantly. A brilliant blue kingfisher swoops to break the water’s surface, catching a minnow between its beak.

This is God’s Own Country, where heaven and earth shake hands at the horizon.

I had probably visited India about 15 times at least before making it out to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala. It wasn’t until after marriage that I was able to soak up the serenity and appreciate an Indian culture different from the one in which I had been raised.

Like my husband’s family, many in this region practice Syro-Malabar Catholicism. This Roman Catholic sect, recognized by the Vatican, can be traced back to the group of people converted by St. Thomas the Apostle along India’s Malabar coast.

That’s why December is the best time to visit: not only is the weather in South India more temperate after the monsoons, but there is an animated atmosphere, as illuminated Christmas stars adorn the doorways of most storefronts and homes.

Don’t Miss

• Spending an overnight stay on a houseboat
• Birdwatching in Kumarakom
• Savoring Malabar cuisine
• Sipping tender coconut water from a riverside vendor
• Trying the local toddy
• Scoping out wildlife at the nearby Thekkady Wildlife Reserve
• Touring the tea estates in nearby Munnar

Related Posts

• Celebration: The Spirit of My Season
• Cool Temps, Hot Spots: Excursions from Coimbatore, India

The holiday lights are up, the stores are abuzz and you have a luscious cup of cocoa in your hands. It is, as the song goes, the most wonderful time of the year.

Around Georgia, the skies gray and temperatures vacillate, teasing us with hopes of flurries for a white Christmas, only to show up unannounced a month later. It’s also the time some of us crave decadence. Even the few who try to restrain may find it hard to escape indulging at the holiday parties, so we try to reset our bodies in the new year.

For these colder months, we’ve rounded up our top picks of how to catch all the holiday feels around Georgia, escape to cozy cabins for those long weekends, and rejuvenate in the new year with recipes that will repair the sins of your indulgences during the holiday months.

Best Places to Get Into The Holiday Spirit in Georgia

• Helen, Georgia
• Garden Lights at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
• Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain
• Holiday Pop-Up Bars like Miracle, Jingle Bar, The Blind Elf

Where to Go for a Weekend Escape

If you’re planning a long weekend getaway for Christmas, MLK weekend or Valentine’s Day, these spots won’t snow you in completely, but will still give you every excuse to cozy up to your loved ones!

• Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge /Blue Ridge cabins
• San Francisco
• San Diego
• New Orleans (Mardi Gras)

Comfort Foods & Healing Recipes

• Best for Colds: Rasam: Healing Winter Soup
• Comfort Foods: Skillet Veggie Quesadillas , Baked Mac and Cheese
• January Detox: Winter Detox: Beetroot Soup with Roasted Carrot Salad
• February Date Night at Home: Spaghetti Squash

Global Getaways

• Manila, Philippines
• Fiji
• Sabah, Malaysia (on Borneo Island)
• Kerala, India

Tips, Tricks & Perspectives

• 15 Gift Ideas for the Foodie in Your Life
• How to Gear Up for a Healthier You
• How I Went From Couch Potato to Health Nut in 5 Easy Steps
• Why We Should Secure Our Wellness Before Assisting Others

Related Posts

• JMIT Fall Edit
• Ultimate Seasonal Guide to Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Atlanta

Something happens when you first become a parent. You discover a new type of self-sacrificing love unlike any attachment you’ve formed in the past. Tunnel vision sets in and all of your energy and attention turns to your baby– as it should at the moment.

However for many couples, in this season of life, you and your partner also go into roommate mode for awhile, where your conversations are centered on the logistics of childcare, scheduling, intake, output. This happened to me, but probably to the extreme, where I was so focused on the minute details of how the kids were fed and dressed, what media they consumed, the safety of toys with which they played, that often I missed the moments when my husband was trying to connect or spend time with just me.

This also translated into vacations. Even after the birth of our son in 2021, I was reluctant to leave my kids behind when we traveled, except for the times I had to travel solo for work. I continue to believe that traveling with children is important for both kids and parents, but more on that in a separate post. I was too attached and too controlling to leave my kids with anyone else. However, I recognize that time away alone is important for a marriage, so finally after my son turned one, I dipped my toes in the water, a trial run if you will, with a weekend trip to San Francisco to attend a friend’s wedding.

While we traversed Lombardi Street, strolled through the Palace of Fine Arts, or took a morning walk at Golden Gate Beach, I still spent most of the time obsessing from the other side of the country if my kids were eating healthy or watching too much tv. But, for all the moments that I wasn’t, these are the sights, meals, and accommodations that we enjoyed.

What to See

Day 1

• Lombardi Street & San Fran Trolley Ride
• Ghirardelli Square – Dreamily decadent hot chocolate, but think enough to not finish.
• Fisherman’s Wharf and lazy seals at Pier 39- You’ll smell the seals before you see them and catch technicolor sunsets!

Day 2

• Palace of Fine Arts
• Golden Gate Beach and Bridge
• Ferry Market

Where to Eat

• Breakfast at Honey Honey Cafe & Creperie
• Lunch at Piccolo Forno
• Dinner at Ciccino or Sorella

Where to Stay

Kimpton Hotel (Marriott Autograph Collection)- the decor and furnishings are elegant, giving it a boutique hotel look, and we were greeted upon arrival with champagne since we were celebrating a dating anniversary.

I look back at our trip to San Francisco reminded of a story that my father-in-law shared at our wedding: A middle-aged couple is forced to decide to let go of friends and family through the course of their life. One by one, the wife is able to eliminate close friends and relatives using logical rationale, but when it comes down to her parents, children and husband, she has a tough decision to make. Eventually, she realizes that her parents will pass on and her kids will grow up to leave the nest and create families of their own. In the end, all you have is the relationship with your partner, which is why it requires continuous strengthening through each phase of life.

Related Posts

• Bonding with Baby: I Don’t Want to Share my Baby
• What I Learned About Gratitude Searching for Dolphins in Key West
• Discovering a Mother’s Love with Our Growing Family

There’s nothing more inviting than a velvety soft blanket and the warmth of a crackling fire when temperatures dip below freezing.

It’s the time of year when you may not have the budget or enough vacation time to take a full-fledged trip to a far-off place but still in need of some time off to rest.

Enter: A retreat to the icy, rolling hills of the lower Appalachians in the winter months.

The wood-paneled mountain chalets in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Blue Ridge are so luxurious, they come equipped with indoor heated pools, outdoor hot tubs, foosball and pool tables, and even theater rooms. When it’s chilly outside, sink into the quilted bedding at one of these hilltop retreats to experience winter from the comfort of a cozy cabin.

Gatlinburg (& Pigeon Forge)

The mountains around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge become a veritable winter wonderland in the cold months.

My first trip to Gatlinburg was one with my husband. Our long-distance relationship in the early days didn’t allow us to spend actual Valentine’s Day together, so one weekend in February when we were both free, we booked one of the chalets in Gatlinburg.

Immediately, I loved how the place was tucked away in nature. As a bit of a workaholic, I find it hard to decompress at the start of a vacation, but natural surroundings and low cell phone signal help me disconnect (which is also one reason I look forward to our July 4th annual trip to the national parks). The cabin amenities were impressive: it came with a fully equipped kitchen, hot tub and games, including a foosball table.

A few years later, one of our friends celebrated a milestone birthday in a similar cabin in Sevierville. We played several rounds of board games and took turns whipping up endless meals in the kitchen. I can’t remember the exact philosophical discussions that we had over glasses of Malbec, but I can tell you it was one of the most enjoyable times that I’ve had with that crew.

On our last day in town, we went go-kart racing in Pigeon Forge. Temperatures were below freezing, and I couldn’t even feel my fingers holding the wheel! Suffice it to say, I came in last for the race!

Tourist Attractions

Even with all of the amenities that the chalets have to offer, it’s possible to get stir crazy indoors. In the nearby towns, there are plenty of attractions, including theme parks like Dolly Parton’s Dollywood, or shopping at outlet malls and antique stores.

Perched at the top of Gatlinburg is the ski resort, Ober Gatlinburg, which buzzes to life with family-friendly activities like ice bumper cars, ice skating, snow tubing and more. Even those who don’t care for winter activities can take the ski lift to the top to get an aerial view of the city draped in lights, a spectacle particularly around the holidays. Gatlinburg reminds me of Helen and St. Augustine in Florida, as it’s filled with souvenir shops, but also attractions like Ripley’s Believe it or Not and a haunted house. It’s a little kitschy, but with the right attitude or company, it can be fun.

Alternatively, nature lovers can venture into trails or go for a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Cade’s Cove valley within the park is an excellent spot to go for a drive or walk the trails, and you are almost guaranteed to see some type of wildlife.

One December, when we rallied our extended family into an 11-bedroom chalet near Pigeon Forge, we felt that the constant cooking and eating was getting to be too much. One morning, several of us took the easy, 2.6-mile Laurel Falls Trail to burn off the extra calories!

Blue Ridge

Most recently, we booked an extended Martin Luther King Jr. Day Weekend in a lofty cabin in Blue Ridge. We went with three other families who also had kids, and the little ones loved the games, jacuzzi and faux smores we roasted over a fire on the deck.

Our stress and anxiety melted away.

We found that this stay right at the start of the year lifted our spirits after the holiday break. It served to ease us into the new year and work routines a bit more gently after the Christmas break.

Whether you decide to go with a significant other, group of friends, or multi-generational family, a winter getaway in a mountain chalet is a must!

Related Posts

• Ultimate Guide to Day Trips and Weekend Getaways From Atlanta
• 10 Scenic Trails and Day Hikes from Atlanta

The following was the speech I gave at my grandmother’s memorial service on Nov. 4, 2023.

Over the past week, I received a lot of messages from many of you: Via text message, Facebook comments, phone calls, and more. I noticed common themes coming up in these messages, terms like “unforgettable, strong presence.” “elegant,” “a fixture in our lives and community.” Many recalled that she carried herself with such grace that she stood out in a room full of people.

That’s true. My grandmother had a regal presence, and she left an impression. In fact, I looked it up, and in Sanskrit her name literally means beautiful, charming…

Perhaps that’s why my grandfather, upon first laying eyes on her, told his mother he simply had to marry her. Later, he wrote that she was to be the light that lit up their home. He must have known then that he needed a strong woman with a commanding presence by his side to help him achieve all that he had dreamed of for his life.

Of course we will miss Patti. I am sad that she is gone but I have no feeling of “if only” regrets for the life she lived. She lived a full life.

I know that a lot of people say that when someone passes away because it helps them cope with the loss. In the case of Patti, she truly had the chance to experience so much, and to witness multiple generations of families grow.

An adventurous spirit

She grew up in a family of girls and was given all the comforts and opportunities, and even more after she married my grandfather, whom she said never said no to any request of hers.

When she accompanied Thatha to England, she went to finishing school in Manchester to learn proper etiquette. She traveled around the world on a cruise ship for months visiting tens of countries with my grandfather. In fact, often when I’ve come back to Gainesville and recounted tales of my travels or experiences to national parks or sprawling cities. Patti, reclining in her easy chair looking up from her newspaper or prayer books will say, “I’ve been there,” “I’ve done that,” “I’ve tried it.”

So whatever many of us have done in our 20, 30, 40 years of adulthood, chances are that Patti has probably already done that. Not just because she has lived longer than all of us, but because she had a spirit to talk to people, taste foods, try new things– ultimately enjoy the good life.

Long before youngsters were shaking it at the clubs, Patti was learning ballroom dancing: the two step and the fox trot.

When she lived in England, she had to learn to cook for herself, which she hadn’t done until that point, given her upbringing in India. The limited Indian ingredients that she could find forced her to make due with what was available. As a result, Patti, to this day, will tell you that she can make an excellent sambar or rasam with just a split pea soup. Her culinary instinct is just ONE of the things I’m going to miss.

A Woman of Many Talents & Interests

She was also an accomplished Carnatic music singer. Patti taught me a number of Carnatic songs since I was four or five years old. She was so encouraging even when I went off key at times, and would push me to learn new sangathis or permutation of the same line. As my life got busier in adulthood, she would still try to convince me to sit with her and learn a new song or two, saying, “It’s very easy for you to pick up, simple paatu than. Only two, two, couplets.”

The few times that I would slow down and spend more time with her was more recently on weeknights, when all of us would sit in the living room and try to decide what to watch on TV. We could always rely on Law & Order SVU. Patti loved a good crime drama, but more than that, she loved just having all of us around.

That’s why after my grandfather passed away, I knew she would feel lonely going back to Chennai. I went back to India with her and stayed there for four months while I did internships at CNN-IBN and The Hindu. She wanted so very much for my stay there to be comfortable. She made sure I had a good Internet setup at home, ensured I had proper cell phone service, hired a driver to chauffeur me to the assignments I had to cover, and made sure the air conditioning at home was working properly. I would go to the office and come back pretty late and she would have waited for me to have dinner and to chat. Since that was hard to do on weekdays, on weekends, we would have more time to eat breakfast and tiffin together. One Saturday afternoon, Patti stepped into the kitchen to make me brinji, a rather aromatic rice pulao dish. I remember when she made it she had this feeling of being almost rebellious or modern because it called for a generous portion of garlic. Since it was just us to gals at home on a Saturday, she felt it was alright to be a bit adventurous.

During that time I spent with her in India, what touched me most was that every single day she would read my articles– and not just the big ones. Even the small articles that normally wouldn’t even warrant a byline. She would read those too. Just a couple months ago when I had written something that I hadn’t thought was my best piece, she happened to read it, noticed that it was written by me, and then called me to tell me how much she enjoyed reading it, telling me she loved the language I had used.

She was keen to shower her grandchildren and their husbands with love and affection.

She welcomed Jis into our family warmly. I think she secretly loved that I married into a Malayalee family because she was able to relive her youth in Trivandrum, speaking in Malayalam to Jis and his family. Later, she engaged Jis for hours about medicines, various diabetes treatment options and drug interactions, not only because she was truly interested in medicine, but because it was a way to connect with her grand son-in-law further. (By the way if Patti had continued her education, I’m certain she would have gone into healthcare)

Loving grandmother

I mentioned earlier that “Lalitha” means beautiful and charming, but it also refers to a divine mother who delights in being with her children, and that was exactly what Patti stood for. As many of us have witnessed firsthand, when it came to her only son she could not be away from him, but it was also the case with her grand kids, and great grandkids.

An example of how she showered her grand children with love: Because of the way Patti had been raised, for grandkids’ birthdays she would give some expensive piece of jewelry. Then she would be a bit disappointed at their reaction when they received it wondering why a 3-year-old or 8-year-old didn’t embrace the ornament that she had gifted with as much enthusiasm as she had hoped. I finally explained to her one year that while her gift was beautiful and generous, it wasn’t something that a kid could appreciate.

Just a few months later when Christmas rolled around, Patti gifted Sahana a large, soft teddy bear, which of course, was completely out of character for my grandmother, but was something she had done because she understood what I had said. Sahana loved it.

When it came to her children, her grandchildren, Patti was adaptive like that.

Finally, given the generation of which she was a member, Patti wasn’t the kind to concede in an argument or apologize for an action–BUT one thing she did pick from all of her time here immersed in Western culture was to express the words “I love you.”

After having spent so many years exposed to American culture, when I would say goodbye on the phone, she would say “I love you.” I don’t know anyone else of her generation or the generation after who actually voices this. Perhaps after my grandfather passed, she felt it was important to express these feelings.

Patti, I love you, too. You have lived up to everything in your name– beauty, charm, and the epitome of a loving grandmother.

Related Posts

• In memory of the smartest man I knew – Alladi Ramakrishnan
• A tribute to the homemakers

Each year, six million people flock to the wiesn to partake in Munich’s Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beerfest, where an average of 1.8 million gallons of specially crafted beers are carted in by the barrel into 17 tents. Given that the beer is served in one-liter mugs, I suppose that level of consumption is no surprise.

What’s ironic though is that the festival that started as a celebratory return to regional traditions and a reinstatement of Bavarian emperors by Napoleon, seems only to have kept intact the costumes and festive atmosphere.

It was an agricultural festival to celebrate King Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese of Saxon in 1810. People were encouraged to wear their regional garb, and for many years, the main event was actually horse racing. You wouldn’t know it from the festival today.

To appreciate the Bavarian history and culture requires venturing beyond the wiesn, or meadow where Oktoberfest takes place, through the streets of Munich, to the seat of the Bavarian rulers, the palace grounds at Nymphenburg and the Bavarian countryside.

Munich

Walk through the Marienplatz

Start at the Marienplatz, the city’s iconic center dating back to medieval times. The city’s main streets converged in this square. Originally named the “grain market,” the square was renamed after Bavaria’s patron saint, St. Mary, honored with a column in the center of the square to mark the end of Swedish occupation in 1638.

Buy Bread and Produce at the Victuals Market

A bouquet of aromas greet you in this open-air market that has been in operation every single day since 1807, except on Sunday and holidays. When the grain market was too large to be contained in Marientplatz alone, farmers’ stalls spilled over to create this Victuals Market nearby.

From the smell of freshly baked bread wafting from the stalls, to the fragrant orbs of alliums and asters on vibrant display in the stands, the Victuals Market invites you to smell, taste, and shop. It was our first stop for breakfast one morning. We were overwhelmed by the number of baguettes, rolls and loaves filling the bakeries, but managed to select a few croissants for the kids as we sipped coffee.

Vendors let us sample fresh berries along the way and we selected a basket for our son.

Visit the Residenz Museum & Treasury

Residenz is the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs. Travel back in time to an era of grandeur as you walk the gilded halls and intricately adorned chambers, a mark of exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

Unfortunately, I was not able to visit inside the museum fully because I was solo-parenting for the day and strollers were discouraged, given the number of stairs throughout the museum. But from what I could tell from peeking inside, the architecture and sculptures were quite elaborate.

Stroll the sprawling Nymphenburg Palace & Gardens

Talk about a push present! Bavarian Elector Ferdinand Maria gifted the grounds of the Nymphenburg Palace to his wife, Henriette Adelaide, upon the long awaited birth of a Bavarian heir, their son, Max Emanuel.

Eventually, the palace and gardens became the summer home for the Bavarian electors with hunting grounds, swimming pool and chambers for the rulers and their guests to stay.

Füssen

The idyllic mountain town of Füssen is aptly named – whether in reference to its
Latin roots referring to its location at the base of the Alps or it being situated at the mouth of the Lech gorge. This is one of the closest towns to the castle region of Bavaria and sits in a picturesque valley.

Lech Gorge

Waterfalls tumble down the sheer rock faces of the Lech Gorge, which has been carved over millennia by the relentless force of the Lech River. These dramatic geological features create a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploration, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate this glimpse into the raw power and beauty of nature along the Alpine mountainside. Within the banking wilderness, lofty pine trees create a vibrant tapestry of color and texture, while providing shelter for deer, foxes, and a myriad of bird species in the area.

Behold the Dreamland of the Swan King

To me, one of the most interesting parts of this region was learning about the history and life of its Bavarian emperors.
On the flight over to Germany, I listened to some podcast episodes about Ludwig II to fully understand the mystery behind the eccentric Bavarian ruler’s obsession with beauty.

Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for the Disney Sleeping Beauty castle, was the vision of Ludwig II, the “Swan King,” who was considered to be insane and ousted from rule just days before his mysterious death. In reality, he was a visionary, who would have much rather spent his days at the opera than the daily drone of his political duties, and sure, he was eccentric. Though the building of this extravagant castle drove the king into personal debt (he didn’t spend the people’s money to build it), today it serves as a huge tourism cash machine for the government.

Benedictine Monastery of St. Mang

Quaint cobblestone streets and charming pastel-colored buildings, create the serene beauty of the Benedictine Monastery of St. Mang.

Arcades and ornate frescoes adorn the walls. The hallowed halls of the monastery church house a trove of religious art and architecture, from intricately carved altars to luminous stained glass windows, each telling a story of faith and devotion spanning centuries.

Hohes Schloss

This “High Castle” is a fortress perched atop a rugged hilltop overlooking the town below. Here, amidst towering ramparts and imposing battlements, we are transported back in time to an era of knights and nobles, as we explore the castle’s rich history and marvel at its impressive architecture.

From imposing gatehouse to the serenity of its inner courtyards, Hohes Schloss offers a glimpse into the medieval past of Füssen, inviting us to immerse ourselves in its storied heritage and uncover the secrets of its ancient walls.

Related Posts

• I took my kids to Munich’s Oktoberfest. Here’s what happened.