Plan Your Own Adventures with Confidence and Discover the World Your Way
International Travel
The International Travel category features destination guides, cultural experiences, itineraries, food recommendations, and meaningful travel insights from around the world. From the coastlines of Oceania and the islands of French Polynesia to the historic cities of Europe, the vibrant cultures of Asia, and the natural wonders of Africa and the Middle East, this category helps you explore the world with confidence and curiosity. You’ll find practical planning tips, transportation guidance, packing advice, and region‑specific insights that make international travel smoother and more enriching. Whether you’re seeking romantic escapes, adventure travel, cultural immersion, or off‑the‑beaten‑path discoveries, this category connects you to global destinations through thoughtful storytelling and helpful travel strategies.
To start your tour of our favorite international destinatons we suggest you start with these travel hubs:
You have found A complete, first‑time visitor’s guide to the City of Light. Also, a thorough presentation for the returning visior. If you are also interested in learning more about France, beyond Paris, please see our post Best France Two Week Itinerary: Paris,...
Paris is a city that never stops reinventing itself. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine River, admiring the Eiffel Tower, wandering the streets of Paris, or savoring wine in a tucked‑away bistro, the French capital offers a memorable experience in every season....
France has had an enormous impact on world culture, dating back to the 18th century and the French Revolution. The French Revolution remains one of the most transformative moments in human history, a period when French citizens challenged centuries‑old hierarchies,...
France, the land of love, art, and exquisite cuisine, is a dream destination for many travelers. The country’s diverse landscape, rich history, and charming culture make it an ideal place to explore and discover. But beyond the well-known landmarks, there is a...
If Bora Bora is on your bucket list destination, congratulations — you’re planning one of the most spectacular tropical vacations on the planet. Nestled in the Society Islands in the heart of the South Pacific, this tiny jewel sitting in the middle of the...
If you are searching for the most romantic destinations in the entire world to take your next vacation, then you have come to the right place. This post analyzes over 100 destinations, offering unbiased suggestions for the perfect romantic getaway. For each...
French Polynesia is one of the most beautiful places in the world—an archipelago of turquoise lagoons, volcanic peaks, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural heritage spread across 118 islands. But it’s also a destination known for high costs, expensive hotels, and...
French Polynesia is one of the most captivating destinations on Earth — a place where volcanic peaks rise from translucent lagoons, where Polynesian culture thrives in everyday life, and where each island feels like its own universe. Spread across a vast stretch of...
An issue that we all worry about: "How to Pack My Bags for My next Trip?" Robin with assistance from her friend (ChatGPT), has written this post to help you address your packing issues. Personal Experience Story "Packing My Bags" - From Robin: I...
Iceland is a small island with an outsized reputation — a place where natural wonders, ancient culture, and dramatic landscapes collide in ways you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Whether you’re dreaming of a road trip along the Ring Road, chasing the Northern...
Welcome to our post about the world’s most luxurious rail journeys. Please continue reading if you are interested in railroad history, the best historic train rides in the world, and their iconic destinations. We are listing only the scenic rail journeys we have...
Sydney is one of the most popular cities in Australia, and one of the best places in the Southern Hemisphere, all for good reason. From its iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge, the natural beauty of the harbor, to its world-class beaches and...
Melbourne isn’t about postcard landmarks—it’s about vibe, culture, and discovery. It’s the kind of city that reveals itself slowly, one laneway, café, and conversation at a time, starting with an arrival at the Flinders Street train station. Why Visit the City of...
If you are searching for a great place to take your next romantic getaway, then you have come to the right place. Nothing in the world we live in has as much natural beauty as the Great Barrier Reef, which protects Queensland’s Northern Coastline, features...
The Philippines, Manila City, the country’s capital city, and the old walled city within Manila, known as Intramuros, are all well worth a visit. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Manila’s iconic walled city, Intramuros....
Bermuda, a great place and a British Island Territory, is one of those ports that feels tailor-made for cruising: pink-sand beaches, turquoise water, British charm, and—best of all—ships that often dock overnight so you can actually live on the island for a couple of...
How many days do you need to visit Rome? An excellent question, Cos has made eight separate trips to Rome, and he still doesn’t feel that he has seen the whole city. Nevertheless, 5 days in Rome should give you a good feel of the Eternal City, especially if you...
Romania is a land of storybook castles, rich history, misty mountains with breathtaking views, and medieval towns where history and culture still lingers in the air. It is a beautiful country. Whether you’re drawn to Transylvania’s Gothic legends, Bucharest’s Belle...
Discover the Ultimate Switzerland Train Tour Itinerary for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience Imagine embarking on a journey through Switzerland, where every turn reveals a new breathtaking vista of snow-capped peaks, charming villages, and pristine lakes. This...
Imagine embarking on a train journey through Switzerland, surrounded by breathtaking autumn landscapes and charming cities awaiting your exploration. In this ultimate travel guide, we will unveil the top must-visit cities on a Switzerland train tour that will...
This blog post will Immerse you in the breathtaking beauty of a Norway 10-day itinerary like no other. From the vibrant streets of Oslo to the untouched beauty of the fjords, this journey promises to uncover the hidden gems of this Scandinavian country. Join us as we...
This post will compare the Capitals of Sweden and Finland, Stockholm and Helsinki, respectively in detail,and discuss the best ways to travel on the Helsinki route between these two beautiful cities in Northern Europe. Travel from Stockholm to Helsinki The Capitals of...
Buenos Aires is the Capital and the cultural heart of Argentina. This post will discuss the Best time to visit Argentina, with a focus on Buenos Aires in particular. If you're interested in learning about other great places to visit in Argentina, please visit our...
Akita is a wonderful city. It is in the Tohoku Region of Japan, the northernmost part of the main island of Honshu. It is on the western side of Japan, and like Kanazawa, it gets fewer cruise ships than the more famous cities on the eastern shore. As a result, people...
Imagine stepping into a land where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern life, offering a tapestry of experiences that captivate both seasoned and novice travelers alike. Vietnam, with its rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and flavors, stands as a...
Where are Kagoshima, Nagasaki & Hiroshima? You may ask, “ Where are Kagoshima, Nagasaki & Hiroshima ? Two of Japan’s regions comprise what we are calling Southern Japan, and that is where you will find the two cities that were bombed to end WWII,...
In this installment of their 72-day Asian adventure, Cos and Robin delve into the smallest of Japan’s five main islands, Shikoku Island . They share their unique experiences, cultural discoveries, and hidden gems. Join them as they journey through the Orient,...
Best Kobe, Kyoto & Osaka Itinerary The Kansai Region of Japan, Japan’s popular tourist region, includes three main cities in Japan: Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe. It is officially called the Kansai Region. This is one of the eight regions that make up a general regional...
Sakura Japan: Shimizu (Mt. Fuji), Nagoya, and Kanazawa The Mountain Region of Japan, also known as the Chūbu Region, includes the cities of Shimizu, Nagoya, and Kanazawa, and contains some of the best places to visit in Japan for first timers, especially to see the...
Tokyo to Yokohama, The World’s Most Populous Metropolitan Area Tokyo is one of the busiest and most fun places in the world. It effortlessly blends tradition with innovation, offering something for everyone. It is Japan’s Capital. Tokyo and its close...
Best Time to Go to Hokkaido Japan: Sapporo (Otaru) & Hakodate If you are wondering when the “ B est Time to Go to Hokkaido Japan” is, you have come to the right place. This post will tell you about the “Best Time to go to Hokkaido Japan,” ...
Tips for Travel to Japan, Including the Best Time for Cherry Blossoms in Japan If you wish to learn some Tips for travel to Japan you have come to the right place. Japan is an incredible travel destination, offering a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Japan has...
If you are considering traveling to Phuket, Thailand , and learning about Phuket tourist places , you have come to the best post to find places to visit in Phuket . Phuket has a lot to offer. It is a beautiful part of the world, It has excellent beaches, great food,...
Why Visit Taipei? Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, is a modern metropolis with a 509-foot bamboo-shaped skyscraper, known as the Taipei 101 Tower for its number of floors. As one of the four tigers, Taiwan is a powerhouse of technology commerce, dominating...
Visiting Places in Seoul South Korea In this installment of their 72-day Asian adventure, Cos and Robin share their unique experiences, cultural discoveries, and hidden gems. As part of their 72-day “Whispers of the Orient” Tour in 2025, they were fortunate to spend...
Where is Sri Lanka on the Map? Have you never heard of Sri Lanka or asked, “Where is Sri Lanka on the Map?” In this post, not only will we show you where Sri Lanka is on the Map of the World, but we will also tell you about the “Best Places to...
Are you tired of the same old vacation destinations? Looking for a unique and breathtaking experience? Look no further than Jeju Island – the gem of South Korea. With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and endless activities, it’s no...
Places to Visit: Ho Chi Minh City, Formerly Saigon As part of Cos and Robin’s 2025 72-day Whispers of the Orient Cruise Tour, from Mumbai to Tokyo, our cruise ship docked at the Cruise Terminal in Phu My, Vietnam. This stop was marketed as a stop to see Ho Chi...
Travel the World: Visiting Malaysia on a Two Day Malaysia Itinerary Visiting Malaysia surprised us when we traveled there during our 2025 “Whispers of the Orient 72-day Tour.” Not only did we find many places to visit in Malaysia , but we also found the...
In this blog post, we will share information about the best time of year to visit the dynamic city-state of Singapore, as well as the best places to visit to have a good time, including budget-friendly activities, accommodations, and dining options for travelers...
Macau, the fabulously wealthy UNESCO city, is known for its casinos, which make it the “Las Vegas of the East,” and, to a lesser degree, for the influence of its Portuguese and Chinese settlers. Immerse yourself in “1 Day Macau” and in Macau’s...
Travel to India from USA Are you ready to leave the USA to discover Mumbai’s hidden treasures, which go beyond the typical tourist attractions? Or are you apprehensive about visiting this historic city that never sleeps and is even more chaotic than anywhere...
What is Hong Kong Famous For? With neon signs galore, dim sum lunch, towering skyscrapers, Victoria Peak set along beautiful Victoria Bay, and the fabulous Symphony of Lights at night, there was never a quiet moment. This post will cover “W hat to see in Hong...
Visit Abu Dhabi: Things to See in Abu Dhabi If you love to travel, you must visit Abu Dhab i, It is an enchanting city where whispers of the Orient beckon you to uncover its hidden gems. From the UAE’s rich history to modern architectural marvels, this city is a...
Step back in time and lose yourself in the ancient allure of Old Goa , India, where whispers of the Orient beckon travelers to explore the rich history and exquisite beauty of its churches. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into the past to the...
If you are like Cos, then you must like free things. In that case, you have come to the right place, as we have eight (8) free international travel packing lists. Get Your Free International Travel Packing List They say there is no such thing as a free lunch, but you...
This blog is based on a 100-page Shutterfly book we recently completed. Because Shutterfly is predominantly a photo-based site, it contains far more photos than narrative. However, it quite accurately traces our best European vacation, which we took in the summer of...
This post describes the best time for Cos and Robin to visit Paris in 2024. It was to see the Paris 2024 Olympics. The best time for you will obviously be different. If you want to follow their specific European Olympic Journey, then read on. If not, and you want to...
France in 14-days? Are you planning a trip to France? If so, chances are Paris will be your first stop. Okay, you can do Paris in 7 days. But if you really want to fully engage with Paris as well as other areas in France, then there is no way you can do it in a 7-day...
Embark on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of Portugal's Douro Valley wine region. Undeniably, you will find lush vineyards, natural beauty, and an exclusive port tasting. Nestled in the heart of Portugal is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered – the Douro Valley...
Start your journey near the French Border in the autonomous Basque Country with picturesque landscapes and a vibrant culture. With our Northern Spain Road Trip Itinerary you will visit different regions of the country. And, you will see some of the most iconic places...
Welcome to our post about the best Slovenia Tours. Slovenia is one of the most beautiful countries you will ever visit. From the snow-capped peaks of the Slovenian Alps to beautiful Lake Bled, it is a gorgeous place to visit; however, first some facts. While we...
This post will highlight the Kravice Waterfalls in Bosnia & Herzegovina. It will also discuss other impressive waterfalls in the country, as well as the most popular day trips to Sarajevo and Mostar. Kravice Waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina The Kravice...
Croatia is a stunning, beautiful country. There are many famous historic landmarks in Croatia. It is located at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe on the Adriatic Sea. For information about Southeast Europe, please visit our more inclusive post on the...
Despite the 1999 Kosovo War, Kosovo's liberal Muslim population is doing well today. 95.6% of Kosovo's total population is Muslim, most of whom are ethnic Albanians. We never expected to visit Kosovo, but we traveled over from Albania and had a great trip in 2024. We...
You ask, "Is Albania Worth Visiting ?" and "Is Albania Safe ?" If you are looking for expensive, luxurious hotels to stay in, well then, Albania may not be your first choice to visit. Albania is one of the least developed countries in Europe. Obviously, Paris, London,...
According to various sources, Europe is home to some of the safest places to visit in the world. This post will support that conclusion and provide more information about the safest places to travel. Safest Places to Visit in Europe - Methodology There are several...
Is Chile Safe to travel to? Discover the hidden truths about safe travel to Chile , Santiago and other regions. Also, learn how to navigate the city's unique challenges for a safe and enjoyable experience. In this article, we'll delve into the surprising realities of...
Panama is known for its canal, but there's so much more to this small Central American country. Here are 9 facts about Panama we bet you didn’t know! In this blog post, we reveal at least 9 surprising facts about Panama. They will leave you amazed and wanting to learn...
Are you interested in finding Pink Sand Beaches in the Caribbean ? If so, we recommend the Pink Sand Beaches in Barbados. Barbados Barbados is a small island nation in the Caribbean northeast of Venezuela. It is a beautiful island located in the Lesser Antilles, the...
Every month is the best time to visit Curacao and Bonaire. Bonaire and Curacao, along with Aruba, are often called the ABC Islands of the Caribbean. All three islands are in the southern region of the Caribbean Sea and are great Caribbean destinations. They share a...
If you are like many people, you might feel that if you have seen one or two famous cathedrals in Europe, you have seen enough. We are writing this post to convince you that it may not be the case. We just returned from a trip through Europe and can give you...
The best time of year for Viking River Cruise to Germany, Austria, and Hungary from North America can vary depending on your travel plans. Typically, you will take a seven-day European river cruise on the Danube River. Specifically, seven-day river itineraries will...
Prague is a beautiful city to visit at almost any time of the year (more details to follow). How many days in Prague is the more challenging question. We will give you options for a 3, 4 and 5-day itinerary. How Many Days Should I Spend in Prague? Great Question. ...
Are you planning to learn about " Road Trips Spain?" If so, then you have come to the right place to learn about the best road trips. In this post, we will discuss a 14-Day Spain Itinerary and a 14-Day Spain and Portugal Itinerary. Enjoy your travels. Is a 14-Day...
San Jose del Cabo is for lovers, so its no surprise we share ten of our best restaurants in both San Jose del Cabo and it's sister town of Cabo San Lucas here. No wonder here are the restaurants that go perfectly with romance. We've been going to Cabo for years and we...
Do you love graffiti art? This post will help you understand it better and let you know where to find it. As a result of our travels in 2023, we just began to appreciate it. Much more to come to this post. Stay tuned. This particular artwork was on a building at the...
Without a doubt, we believe the best Impressionist Art Museums are in Paris. There are a number of exceptional museums in Paris with outstanding permanent collections of Impressionist art. And there are a number of other museums around the world that have spectacular...
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is a great place to start a vacation. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is located on the banks of the Danube River. And, Budapest is famous for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and historical...
Are you planning a Germany tour? It is a country that should definitely be on your travel bucket list. Because of the rich history of Germany, it is a place that offers something for everyone. This post will provide you with travel information about the " Best Germany...
You want to know "How Long is a Flight from Atlanta to Amsterdam?", or perhaps you are interested in learning about an "Amsterdam 3-day Itinerary"? In either case, you have come to the right place. We will answer the question about overnight flight times from Atlanta...
Trips to Japan: Cultural Differences Japan stands out from most Western countries in several ways, from cultural norms to daily life practices. In this post, we will explain the cultural differences and better prepare you for " Traveling to Japan for the first Time."...
Southeast Asia is a place where history, culture, and stunning landscapes blend seamlessly, capturing travelers’ hearts worldwide. From bustling cities with rich cultural heritages to serene landscapes that take your breath away, Southeast Asian countries offer...
The best time to visit Cambodia and Vietnam is now. This post will provide you with information about an ideal Cambodia Itinerary and discuss the best time to visit. You must visit Cambodia. It is a country with a rich history, friendly people and Top 5 Reasons to...
Vietnam, a place where history, culture, and stunning landscapes blend seamlessly, captures the hearts of travelers worldwide. From bustling cities with rich cultural heritages to serene landscapes that take your breath away, Vietnam offers a tantalizing mix of...
Thailand, a vibrant tapestry of tradition, modernity, and beautiful places, lures travelers with its kaleidoscope of experiences. From bustling cities to white sandy beaches, this Southeast Asian gem offers many best places to visit and best things to do.. If you are...
Are you interested in visiting Bali, the island of the Gods? If yes, you may have some of the same seven questions we get whenever we tell someone that Bali is one of our favorite places to visit. So, before we can help you build your "Bali 7 Day Itinerary," we need...
If you are like us, you love to travel and see the world. While we often travel by airplane or cruise ship to faraway places, we also love to take Road Trips for Couples whenever possible. We are always trying to find the "Best Road Trips in the World." In 2020, still...
Australia, much like the USA, is a large country. Certainly, no question about it. Similarly, Australia, like the USA, is also a beautiful country and well worth traveling halfway around the world for a vacation. If it has been on your bucket list, before you decide...
Assuming you want to learn about New Zealand vacation packages that are available in 2025 or 2026, then you have come to the right place. We will discuss travelling to both the North Island and the South Island, how to get around New Zealand, and help you...
If you decide to take a trip to Greece or to Croatia, you will, of course, want to see the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum in Ancient Athens. If that is your specific interest, we recommend you view our separate post just on Greece. And, in Croatia, you will want...
French Polynesia is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the South Pacific, a place where turquoise lagoons, volcanic peaks, coral gardens, and warm Polynesian hospitality come together in perfect harmony. But choosing the best time to visit can dramatically...
Are you planning a romantic getaway to Greece? We visited Greece for the first time in 2022 on a cruise and returned for a second, more intense, land-based visit in 2024. We loved Greece so much, that we can't believe we waited until our 70s to visit. If you haven't...
What are the best places to visit in the Caribbean? You will find them here. Or do you mean the West Indies? Also, you may wish to visit our other island specific posts: Barbados and Curacao & Bonaire. Getting to The Caribbean Islands Getting to most of the larger...
Planning a trip to Italy? Unquestionably, it is our number one favorite place in Europe to visit, as there are many Hidden Gems all over the country. While we have visited just about every region of Italy, we find new Hidden Gems each time we visit. In fact, Italy has...
One cannot go to Europe and fail to visit the greatest art museums in the world. In this post, we highlight the museums of Europe including those in Italy (Rome and Florence), Paris, London, Spain (Madrid, Bilbao, and Barcelona), Athens and Amsterdam as our favorite...
Garôta de Ipanema Background The song Girl from Ipanema or Garota de Ipanema was written by Antônio Carlos Jobim. He was a Brazilian composer, pianist, guitarist, songwriter, arranger, and singer. Antonio Carlos Jobim is considered as one of the great exponents of...
What is the best time to visit Argentina ? Good question. Argentina is a vast and diverse country with a range of varied climates. Essentially, Argentina is a year-round destination, and any time is a fantastic time, as there is so much to do throughout the country....
Why is London best known for England Landmarks. Well let's start with the fact that it is the capital of England. It also has a long history dating back over 2000 years with the granting of a charter by the King of England in the 11th century. The 18th century...
Planning a trip to Canada can be a lot of fun. Canada has some of the most beautiful places in the world. Our number one choice is the Banff National Park Region and its neighboring National Park in Jasper. To visit either, it is best to fly to Calgary and either...
Trip Planning is the key to any successful trip. Specifically, if you are asking, "How to plan a trip to Japan or anywhere else", you may need our help. Consequently, since Robin and I are both former business executives, each with over 40 years of planning...
Our travels to Mexico have been focused on the Baja California Sur region where we have visited Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, Todos Santos, La Paz and Loreto. We have had good experiences with safe driving to and from Cabo. access to multiple timeshare...