Here are just some places I’d plan an adult-friendly spring break trip!

9 Spring Break Ideas for Adults

Texas Hill Country for a Rural Escape

There are a ton of reasons I loved planning a trip to Texas Hill Country for “Places to Love,” but my number one reason was to see its famous bluebonnets. Every spring, Texas fills up with these beautiful flowers that, despite the name, come in more than just blue. It’s truly a sight to behold. Time your spring break with a road trip around Hill Country, and you’ll be able to see them in full bloom. Just be careful – you can’t just hop off and trespass on private property! Instead plan a stop somewhere like Wildseed Farms to safely enjoy. You can also visit the town of Ennis for their Bluebonnet Festival. Their trail is also open all of April.

And as a bonus for any American history buffs – you can visit the LBJ Ranch for all things Lyndon B. and Lady Bird Johnson as well as the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Costa Rica for a Tropical Break

Get tropical in beautiful Costa Rica! It’s still dry season, which means you won’t have to worry too much about rain dampening your trip. If you’re worried about the beaches and resorts filling up with students and families, head inland and north for a quieter, greener adventure. Stay at the eco-friendly, gorgeous Hideaway Rio Celeste to really feel like you’re tucked away in the jungle. Their rooms are individual bungalows! Then check out Onca Tours for an adrenaline rush. I highly recommend their night time wildlife trek and tubing tours.

Tampa, Florida for a Fun Escape

If you do want to dip your toe back into the nightlife scene without committing to it wholly for your trip, might I suggest Tampa? I know, I know, compared to other places in Florida, Tampa falls much lower on the list of fun, party destinations. But that’s where you’re mistaken. This city knows how to have fun! Historic Ybor City (a neighborhood despite the name), feels like a less chaotic version of Bourbon Street and is full of cigar bars and dance clubs. Don’t be surprised if you come across some free roamin’ chickens when you visit either. Stay at Hotel Haya to be right around the corner from all the fun. If you time it right, you’ll also be able to stay during one of their chicken yoga classes. Yes, you read that correctly. Chicken yoga!

When you need a breather from the party, hop on their free trolleys and head downtown to Tampa’s gorgeous Riverwalk. Or drive over to Mobbly Bayou Nature Preserve for some peaceful kayak fishing with the Tampa Bay Kayak Anglers. And if you’re here on a Sunday, do NOT miss the Thai Market!

Lisbon, Portugal for a European Break

Want to cross the pond for spring break? Check out Lisbon! It’s a fairly short flight from the East Coast (comparable to flying to the West Coast) and is perfect for anyone itching to get themselves to Europe. The city itself is beautiful with pastel facades, a huge coastal area, and incredibly walkable – albeit uphill – streets. Board one of its famous yellow trams to enjoy the views and eat as many patel de natas as your heart desires. When you want to get out of the city, head out to beautiful Sintra with its even more beautiful castle!

Oh, and did I mention, the weather tends to be sunny and in the sixties? A practical dream after surviving this persistent sub-freezing winter!

Big Sky, Montana for a Wintry Getaway

On the flipside, if you can’t get enough of winter and want even more snow, plan a spring break to Big Sky, Montana. Fun fact: we filmed our “Places to Love” episode in March, so all that snowy footage you see is from the start of spring. Ski season here lasts until mid-April, and you’ll have 6,000 acres to choose from!

Spend your days on the slopes or get into the water for some fly fishing. When you do need a break to warm-up, check out The Rocks Tasting Room for a cozy bowl of authentic pho and a Montana mule. You can also explore Museum of the Rockies for the largest dinosaur collection in North America.

Williamsburg & the Historic Triangle, Virginia for a Historic Adventure

Are you and your friends certified history buffs? This is THE year to head to Virginia’s Historic Triangle! Base yourself at the Williamsburg Inn, which sits in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg. Once you check in, you can walk right into town and see just how dedicated this place is to showcasing everything you would’ve seen during the 1700s.

During your stay, visit the other two spots that make up this triangle – Jamestown and Yorktown. Jamestown was home to the first permanent English settlement in America and before that, the land belonged to the Powhatan tribe. Check out Historic Jamestowne to learn more about its history and recent archeological finds. Over in Yorktown, hop aboard a Stanley steamer ride and learn firsthand about the battle that ended the Revolution. Bonus points if you play the “Battle of Yorktown” while you do!

And in between all your history hopping? Take full advantage of Williamsburg’s status as “The Pancake Capital of the World.”

Anywhere on Route 66 for a Road Trip

This is the year of the Great American Road Trip, and there are so many fantastic road trips you can choose from. The one that’s close to my heart right now has to be all 2,448 gorgeous miles of Route 66! Now, don’t try to do the whole thing over your spring break. Not only would you be driving insane numbers every day, you’d spend so much time on the road, you’d miss out on what makes Route 66 so fun – the towns and side stops along the way.

I say pick 1-2 states to drive through and then map out where you want to go from there. Just keep in mind the weather, major festivals, and the changes in elevation and time zones.

Jeju, South Korea for Cherry Blossom Season

Willing to hop on a long flight half way across the world? Go somewhere to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom! While most travelers will start flooding Japan for hanami and even Seoul, South Korea will see its fair share of crowding at major cherry blossom spots, you’ll find relative peace on Jeju Island. Just an hour’s plane ride from Seoul, the island is not only full of fluffy cherry blossoms, it’s absolutely flooded with bright yellow canola fields everywhere you turn. Rent a car to drive around and don’t miss gorgeous Noksan-ro to get both cherry blossom and canola fields in one. If you’re up for some adventure, set aside a day to hike Hallasan, South Korea’s tallest mountain. And, of course, take advantage of island culture and sample all the seafood you come across!

Crystal Coast & Outer Banks, North Carolina for a Cool Beach Trip

And by cool, I mean the weather! The Outer Banks of North Carolina is full of visitors come summer but in March and April when temperatures hover in the 50s, you’ll find places that feel completely calm and quiet. The Crystal Coast in particular offers so much to do for spring breakers. Book a stay in charming Beaufort and then spend your day at Shackleford Banks witnessing the sheer beauty of horses in the wild. At night join the Crystal Coast Stargazers and take advantage of Cape Lookout’s International Dark Sky status. I particularly love a long stroll on a beach, and nowhere is quite as lovely as the one near Oceanana Pier House. When you’ve worked up an appetite, get their seafood boil!

See what I mean? Spring Break is definitely not just for students. Let me know your ideas below as well!

The post Spring Break Isn’t Just for Students appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

As I get older, I’ve learned that time is truly a luxury, and cruises have been such a crucial way of getting that time back. Whether it’s traveling with my kids, with my parents and in-laws, with friends and family, a cruise really allows us all to get together and just focus on being in the moment together.

Since I’ve been on so many over my years, I thought I’d compile all my tips for any newer cruiser to learn from. Check them all out below!

Booking Your Cruise

When to Book – Wave Season

To start, you should know that the absolutely best time to book a cruise is during what’s known as wave season. This can start as early as Black Friday but generally happens from January to March. The name comes from the wave of deals cruise lines will tout to entice you to pick them over competitors. Think discounted fairs, special deals, freebies, extra perks, and even upgrades. They do this because around now is low season for cruises!

It’s also when the most popular cruises, like the Inside Passage of Alaska, fill up so you want to be prepared to book as soon as possible if you want to have the most choices in terms of itinerary, rooms, packages,and excursions.

I recommend starting to do your research in the fall so you know what kind of cruise you want to do, which cruise lines offer the itinerary you want, and what they’re offering in normal times to compare with the deals they’ll offer during wave season.

How to Pick Your Cruise

That brings me to my next point – actually picking your cruise. There are so many options even just clicking into one cruise line’s website can feel overwhelming. Our Season 9 sponsor, Oceania Cruises, sails to 450 destinations across 100 countries alone!

I always think it’s fun to think of cruises like relationships and matchmaking. What are you looking for in a relationship? That’s probably the kind of cruise you’ll want. Short fling? Check out 3-4 day cruises with ports close to where you live. Something calm and peaceful? Look for longer itineraries that stop off at historic ports. Excitement and adventure? Look for more outdoorsy itineraries that’ll have you off the ship and in nature.

Consider booking through a travel agent or consultant.

I’m a big fan of travel agents in general but they’re especially great when booking cruises! They’ll often have access to better deals and perks than you would just booking on your own. One thing to ask about is on board credit (OBC).

Check exactly when you’re booking

If you’re hoping to avoid sharing your cruise with a bunch of students on school break, double check when you’re going. Being on a ship with hundreds of kids is a lot different than one with just a handful of families.

Join the Cruise Line Loyalty Program

Once you’ve figured out your itinerary and who you want to cruise with, look into joining their loyalty program even if it’s your first and you don’t think you’ll do another one anytime soon. Just being a member can have privileges like priority embarkation or disembarkation and hidden deals!

Before You Set Sail

Some Good Terms to Know

Embarkation – This describes the day you board your cruise for the trip.

Disembarkation – This is the day you leave your cruise.

Port of Call – This is where your ship will dock. Besides embarkation and disembarkation days, ports are usually where you’ll get off to wander or join an excursion.

Docked – Docked ports mean you can literally walk right off the cruise ship and onto land.

Tendered – Tendered ports mean you need to be ferried between the ship and the port. It’s kind of annoying so I usually plan to stay onboard for tendered port days. At most, I opt to be tendered later in the day so I can enjoy a more leisurely breakfast and skip the morning ferry rush.

Cabin Steward – This is who will help take care of you and your room.

Check just How All-Inclusive Your Cruise is

“All-Inclusive” is not always all inclusive! Cruise prices typically include room and board but don’t necessarily include excursions, spa treatments, specialty restaurants, alcohol, and other amenities on board. Check over what’s included and what’s not and then budget accordingly so you’re not surprised with a huge bill at the end.

On the flip side, I’ve heard that quite a few newer cruisers didn’t realize just how much was included in their package so they missed out on a ton of cool amenities and dining experiences!

Book as much as possible in advance.

Once you’ve got your cruise booked, book as much as you can in advance. Popular activities or restaurants on board book up fast so it’s better to have that all organized as quickly as possible. Most cancellation policies are generous if you change your mind, but always good to double check!

You absolutely still need cash and plenty of it!

Always, always bring at least a few hundred bucks for tipping. In fact, bring more cash than you think you’ll need because ATM charges on board are brutal.

Even if tips are automatically charged, you’ll still be compelled to tip crew members in cash. They truly are some of the hardest workers I’ve ever encountered, and it’s really incredible how even though I know they’re balancing hundreds of cruisers at once, they manage to make me feel unique. That alone deserves extra appreciation.

Not to mention, it’s also expected that you tip bartenders, luggage handlers, shuttle drivers, port staff, waiters, guides, and more.

Check if Your Cruise Has an App

The Internet on board is notoriously quite slow. See if your cruise has an app and download it ahead of time. They’ll be so helpful with navigating the ship among other amenities and guides.

Make Note of Cruise Dress Codes

While many cruise lines have gone for casual, many still have recommended dress codes depending on what you’re doing. They’re pretty much the terminology as for weddings and business events, but in case you need a refresher:

• Casual –  Shorts, polos, sundresses. Think comfortable without being in your pajamas or workout gear!
• Smart Casual – Just a little dressier while still being comfortable. Think of something you’d wear to an office party. 
• Cruise Elegant – Think cocktail dresses and suits but not full blown black-tie. 
• Formal – Black-tie with tuxedos and evening gowns

In general, you do not want to plan on lounging around in T-shirts and shorts, leggings and tanks, or pajamas on a cruise.

Also Check Your Port of Call Country Dress Codes

It’s also important to make note of any country dress codes when you start packing. For example, churches in Europe may require you to have your shoulders and knees covered. Oh, and fun fact – quite a few countries completely ban camo!

What to Bring on Your Cruise

This one requires a post on its own for all the details and specific instructions. But for a quick overview:

• Double check your cruise’s recommended packing list. Besides the above dress codes, they’ll also know the local weather better than you. Remember summer doesn’t always mean hot.
• Always bring one fancier outfit. Even if there’s no obvious need for it, you’ll never be overdressed on a cruise, and it can be fun to get all dressed up one night!
• Magnetic hooks are an absolute godsend for in-room organization. All doors are metal for fire safety, and hooks are perfect for hanging up bags and clothes.
• Besides normal OTC medications, bring motion sickness remedies even if you don’t think you suffer from it. You never know, and it’s better to be overprepared for this than underprepared.
• Most hats will need some sort of chin strap. Things get windy aboard, make sure your hat has a strap so it doesn’t blow off into the sea.
• Pack shoes with nonslip, rubber soles. The deck gets slippery!

How Exactly to Pack

When I travel on a longer cruise, I tend to bring a checked bag, a carry-on, and a personal item. If it’s shorter than a week, I only bring a carry-on and personal item. (It’s doable, I promise!) Either way, prepare to not see your luggage for the first few hours of your cruise. Most of the time luggage won’t get delivered to your room until after dinner which can leave quite a few hours without access. In my personal item, I like to pack a change of clothes, a swimsuit, any medications I need, essential toiletries (specifically sunscreen!), and any important travel documents.

Bonus tip: if you’re traveling with multiple people in one stateroom or with multiple bags of luggage, label your luggage with 1/x, 2/x, etc. It’ll help luggage handlers with organization!

Do Some Emergency Planning Now Instead of Later

99.9% of the time you’ll enjoy your cruise with no issues and no major predicaments. However, in the small chance that you do experience some sort of emergency, it’s better to have a plan written out well before your trip rather than, you know, in the thick of things.

In general, I like to have a notebook with my travel agent’s number, emergency contacts, numbers of local hotels just in case, and the nearby US embassy or consulate emergency line. It’s also a good idea to have a few extra days of medicine and snacks in case you find yourself on board longer than you realize.

On Board

Get to Your Embarkation Port 1-2 Days Before

If you’re flying to your embarkation port, do NOT try to fly in on the day of. Give yourself at least a 24 hour grace period but I’d really recommend at least 48 hours. Just imagine how much more stressful a flight delay, missed flight connection, or missing luggage is if you only have a few hours leeway. Plus the few extra days in your embarkation port means you have time to enjoy the destination itself.

Go for a Long Walk Once You’re on Board

I do this when traveling to new destinations and on new cruises! Once you’re settled in, just go for a long walk to check out all the public areas, different restaurants, and hidden nooks. Even a large, popular ship has its “off the beaten path” spots. I use this walk to check out where I’m coming for my sunset cocktail, where I’m cozying up to read my book, and to see what’s looking a little quieter. Oftentimes specialty restaurants won’t be busy at all on embarkation day while the buffet will be a madhouse!

Look into Embarkation and Port Day Discounts

Many cruises offer them, take advantage!

Take the Ship’s Time Seriously

Do not, and I mean, do not be late to anything especially the return time from port of calls.

Pace Yourself

Seriously, there’s so much that goes on in a cruise, it can be easy to get overly excited and overwhelm yourself in the first few days. Just take a deep breath and pace yourself as you enjoy all the amenities and excursions.

Any tips you’d add for a new cruiser? Let’s hear them below!

The post Everything You Need to Know About Cruising appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

Route 66 Travel Tips

Know just how long it takes to drive the whole thing.

It goes without saying but Route 66 is a long road trip. It covers nearly 2,500 miles (4,000 km) and runs through eight states. You do not want to shortchange your experience by trying to cover too much in too short of time.
I would say figure out how long you have to drive and note anything you absolutely must see and do. If you only drive a max of 3-4 hours a day, see what you can reasonably cover within that time and then figure out your start and finish.

When exactly should you drive?

Another big thing to consider is what time of year you should plan this road trip. While the idea of a massive summer adventure sounds fun, you’ll be battling some intense sun and hotter than hot temperatures. Arizona especially is a challenging state to explore in the middle of July.

On the flipside, it’s not exactly fun to try and drive through Illinois in the dead of winter!

Weatherwise, I’d say your best bet is to plan for the shoulder seasons. April through May should be lovely as should September through early November.

Westbound or Eastbound?

Another big question – which way to go? The classic route is westbound, so if you really want to be as true to the Route 66 journey as possible, start east and head west.

Car vs. RV?

Unless money is an issue, I’d highly recommend planning your road trip with a car. RVs are great if you’re trying to save on accommodation, but if you go via RV you miss out on one of the best parts of Route 66 – the quirky roadside motels!

We stayed in and visited so many fantastic motels from ones with those classic neon signs to ones that have been completely renovated, and I loved every single one of them. 

Car Safety and Insurance

As always make sure you’re squared away in terms of car safety and insurance. If you’re driving your own car, just pay a visit to your local mechanic to make sure it’s up to driving thousands of miles across the country through various terrain. If you’re renting a car, likewise make sure you rent a car up to all sorts of conditions. 

Check my general road trip tips guide for more details on what you should pack in your car and have on hand in case of emergencies!

You do not want to just rely on Google or Apple Maps.

As I mentioned above, Route 66 is a decommissioned highway. This means you can’t just plug “Route 66” on Google or Apple Maps and expect to find a clean line from Chicago to Santa Monica. While a lot of the highway coincides with US Route 40, often it does not. Sometimes you’ll find yourself on a dirt road and on one occasion you’ll be stopped at a literal US military base and unable to drive through!

I highly recommend going old school and using paper maps. I relied heavily on the EZ66 Guide for Travelers. Jerry McClanahan quite literally covers every possible stop and side journey imaginable!

Be aware of changing climates and time zones.

Most Americans will already know this but if you’re coming from out of the country, please know that this country is physically massive. Route 66 goes through eight states and three time zones. Whatever weather and climate you experience in Illinois and Missouri will be vastly different than what you find in California and Arizona. If you plan on traveling through all states, just make sure you pack accordingly.

And also elevation changes.

This is also where I warn you about massive elevation changes! For example, Chicago, IL is just under 600ft above sea level. Flagstaff, AZ is 7,000ft. If you’ve never experienced traveling through higher elevations, I highly recommend looking up advice for acclimating. It can be quite the shock to just suddenly ascend thousands of feet. One member on my crew even had a low level headache the entire time we were in Arizona!

Keep your daily driving to 3-4 hours max.

Don’t underestimate how tiring driving for long hours can be. Part of what makes Route 66 such a fun journey is how often you’ll want to stop off to admire the view, visit a unique attraction, and just explore small towns. If you try to fit in hours of driving, you’ll run out of time to stop off and find yourself exhausted at the end of each day. Ideally keep it to 2-3 hours but truly do not do more than 3-4 unless you want to battle fatigue.

Research the fun quirks of Route 66 so you know they’re coming.

While I do think part of the appeal of Route 66 is allowing yourself to discover all the different stops along the way, as a planner I do love having some idea of what I’m going to encounter! Do some research (like watching our show ;)) and make note of what’s coming.

For example, you’re going to start seeing little signs with a jack rabbit on them and some sort of number of miles away. You won’t have your answer until you’re all the way in Arizona.

In general, though, avoid a strict schedule.

While you save the stops you want to make, just also ensure you have plenty of time to wander, get lost, and even veer away from Route 66 to explore nearby places. This highway truly is about the journey not the destination, and if you regiment yourself down to the hour, you’ll miss out on a ton.

Be sure to build in rest days.

I will say the one thing to put in your schedule as a non-negotiable is rest days. Set aside at least one day for every week you plan on driving. It’s good to stay put in a hotel for more than one night, have a few hours to do laundry, and just know you don’t need to hop in a car for more than a few minutes. When we had our rest day in Flagstaff, I made sure to stretch my legs on a nice hike and then re-organize all my belongings.

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation!

They say Americans love to chat and nowhere is this truer than with folks along Route 66. Every person we met both for the show and in between was friendly and passionate about this highway. And that’s not even including other fellow road trippers from all over the world. Meeting people from all different backgrounds and hearing their stories is what really made this trip so special. You just never know who you’ll wind up making small talk with. This is not the trip to be shy!

That said, still practice normal safety precautions.

Be open to meeting new people but, as always, practice the same kind of safety you’d practice anywhere. If you’re road tripping alone, never tell a stranger that. Tell them you have a partner just in another shop or you’re meeting a friend from nearby for dinner. And if they ask where you’re off to next or where you plan on staying, just lie.

You should also always share your location with someone at home, and keep pepper spray in your glove department or in your purse just in case. Don’t venture out late at night if you’re unfamiliar with your surroundings, and always check with someone like your hotel front desk to make sure a trail is safe for you.

And, as always, trust your instincts. If something feels off, better safe than sorry!

Never leave anything visible in your car.

Another  general safety tip is to avoid leaving anything visible in your car. Route 66 does go through some bigger cities and while 99% of the time you’ll be fine, there’s always that 1% chance the wrong person comes across your car, sees something they want, sees the out of state plates, and decides it’s their chance to get away with a break in.

Better to not give them any incentive even if it’s something as innocuous as a sweater or pair of sunglasses.

Do not skimp on sun protection.

This is where I pull the mom card and remind you to protect your skin even inside a car! You especially want to apply and re-apply sunscreen to the back of your hands. Just think of how long they rest on the steering wheel in direct sunlight when driving.

Figuring out parking along Route 66

For the most part, you shouldn’t have any issues with finding free parking outside of the major cities. When it comes to the cities, though, I’d just do a little planning ahead of time so you know where you want to park and what apps to pre-download. If you want guaranteed parking and don’t mind paying, SpotHero is a great app to reserve ahead of time.

Navigating gas stations

Download the GasBuddy app for all the cheapest gas stations. And know that gas prices can vary wildly state to state. Whatever you do, make sure to fill up before you get into California. Those prices absolutely sky rocket.

And for non-American travelers, most pumps will require a zip code. Talk to your bank to see what you can do ahead of time or bring enough cash to pre-pay in the store.

Can you avoid tolls on Route 66?

Short answer – yes. If you follow Route 66 strictly, you should avoid tolls completely. There are two highways you might run into around Chicago and Oklahoma but if you navigate using the EZ guide I mentioned above, you won’t have to worry.

There are two Route 66s in New Mexico.

Okay, here’s a very specific bit of advice because I know it can be confusing. When it comes to New Mexico, there are two different Route 66s. They call them the original or pre-1927 alignment and the new or post-1927 alignment. The original is an S curve that goes through Santa Fe and down through Albuquerque while the new alignment goes straight from Santa Rosa through Albuquerque. You can drive both, and we opted for the longer route through Santa Fe.

The official (and spiritual) end of Route 66 vs…

Fun fact: there are two ends to Route 66. The official and spiritual one is at the Santa Monica Pier. Get your official completion certificate and visit the 66 to Cali kiosk for the very last stop mentioned in your guide. Don’t forget to take an epic photo with the End of Route 66 sign nearby and, hey, hop onto the famous roller coaster for one more celebration!

The actual end of Route 66

If you want to also visit the actual end of Route 66, visit Mel’s Drive-in about a mile inland from Santa Monica Pier. They even have a bell you can ring!

Have you driven Route 66? Share your tips below!

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What’s a Dead Week?

A Dead Week is a period of time where there’s a massive lull in travel. They typically follow major peak holiday travel and can be shorter or longer depending on the time of year. The big ones are:

• 1-2 Weeks after Thanksgiving (depending on when it falls)
• Pretty much all of January
• Sometimes the first 2 weeks of February
• Right after Labor Day from Tuesday – Thursday

Of course there are some caveats to this. No major ski resort or hot weather destination is going to be inexpensive in January or February. Cities on the other hand – this might be your chance to score the lowest hotel costs of the year. Beach towns will also be nice and quiet.

Pros of Deadweek Travel

As far as I’m concerned, there are far more pros to dead week travel than cons! Top of the list:

• You’ll avoid crowds – There’s a reason it’s called “Dead Week.” Who doesn’t love avoiding wait times and long lines?
• Prices will be their lowest – If you’re ever going to score a too-good-to-be-true deal on a hotel, flight, or restaurant, it’s going to happen during a Dead Week.
• You’ll avoid more extreme heat – Have you been to popular European spots during high season, aka the summer, lately? It is hot. And when I say the summers are hot, I mean 80F in, say, Barcelona feels a lot worse than 80F in New York City. Chalk it up to a difference in opinion on air conditioning and air flow! If you go during a Dead Week, you may not get the best weather conditions but you’ll definitely avoid having to change your shirt every few hours.

Cons of Deadweek Travel

• Places may be closed – One major con of Dead Week travel is that if you go somewhere more seasonal (like a beach town), a lot of its popular attractions and restaurants may be fully closed during your stay. Always best to check before you book so you’re not left disappointed. 
• Weather might be terrible – Part of why there’s a lull in travel during Dead Week periods is the weather. However, if there’s one thing I learned from the Scandinavians, you just need to adjust your outfits to enjoy!

How to Figure Out a Destination’s Dead Week

The best indicator of a destination’s Dead Week is if they have some sort of Restaurant Week. If you haven’t heard of Restaurant Week, it’s when a lot of different restaurants will offer special menus or deals that seem almost too good to be true. It’s a way, as you might guess, to combat the lull in bookings during a Dead Week. NYC pioneered this trend all the way back in 1992 and has even added a Hotel Week. The two coincide with each other and pretty reliably fall at the end of January and beginning of February. 

When to Book Your Trip

To fully maximize your savings, book your trip at some point in mid to late August. This is when airlines announce their after summer pricing, and you can easily find fares that’ll be 30-50% off their peak season highs.

I feel like scoring major deals on flights, restaurants, and accommodation is worth a little cold, gray weather!

Do Cruises Have Dead Weeks?

Kind of! They’re not necessarily the periods I outlined above. If you’re looking at seasonal cruises like the Inside Passage of Alaska or Christmas Market river cruises, your best bet for finding a good deal is looking at the first or last week of the season.

Ideas of Where to Go for Dead Week Travel

All right, now that you know all there is to know about Dead Week travel and why I love it, here are some ideas of where to look.

New York City, USA

Of course I have to mention my hometown and the pioneer of Restaurant Week. NYC is known for its notoriously fast-paced crowds and ridiculous prices so go during a Dead Week to avoid most of the chaos. While Dead Week weather won’t exactly be the most pleasant unless you manage that short period after Labor Day, you’ll hardly notice as you bop in and out of shops, cozy up at restaurants and cafes, and spend hours inside its world class museums. These days, even Brooklyn has some restaurant deals!

Vienna, Austria

I love Vienna, especially in winter. People complain that it gets dark early but cities like Vienna are absolutely magical at night when they’re all lit up. Not to mention there’s a strong café culture, so you can spend your afternoons testing out all their beautiful cafés while sipping on strong coffee and nibbling at your cake. The palaces turned museums will keep you entertained for hours, especially during particularly cold days, and if you visit during January and February, you’ll come during Ball Season!

Northern Taiwan

Most people think “island country in Asia,” and they think Taiwan is a warm weather destination all year round. And while the south stays pretty warm even in January and February, northern Taiwan where Taipei is actually gets quite cool. Crowds are few and far between, and you’ll find things quite peaceful! Just don’t go on around Chinese New Year because then things really will be dead as everyone closes down for a few days and the city completely empties out.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is another European city that’ll be fun to wander and get lost in no matter how cold it gets. Their cuisine is even built for chillier weather. Just tell me chicken paprikash and goulash don’t taste best in the winter. Not to mention the hot water baths Budapest is famous for will feel almost medicinal!

Corning, New York, USA

While the Finger Lakes really comes alive in the summer, it’s still just as charming in the winter. Instead of staying further out along the lakes, stay in Corning. It’s a large town with a lot going on. You’ll get access to some great vineyards nearby (try the riesling!), but you’ll still have plenty to do when you don’t want to drive out. The Corning Museum of Glass is such a fantastic spot for the history of glass and Corning’s own role in it. After all, you’ve definitely heard of Corning glass before! NASA used it in its first spaceships and apparently Steve Jobs called asking them if they could make a glass screen for the iphones. Gaffer District is also full of great little restaurants, shops, spas, and, another great museum, this time with a focus on American art.

Paris, France

While Paris is largely characterized by gray skies and that damp kind of cold, I promise you’ll be so impressed by the architecture and general vibe of the city, you won’t even notice. And in fact that cold weather will feel pleasant as you wander along boulevards and through various arrondissements. Plus Parisians will likely be a bit more patient than they are during the summer season when crowds and temperatures are at their highest. The only thing I would suggest is skipping anything with a garden. Versailles is beautiful but its real charm is in its massive garden not the interior of the palace, and if you go in the off season, it’s just a lot of dead greenery.

Crystal Coast, North Carolina, USA

Another one of my favorite places to visit during a Dead Week would be the Crystal Coast of North Carolina. It occupies 85 miles of the Outer Banks and is a magical place to visit. Just take your pick — excellent food, wild horses, protected International Dark sky… And for your romance fans, Beaufort is where A Walk to Remember is set.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The best time Dead Week to visit Ho Chi Minh City is actually during Tet (aka Chinese New Year/Lunar New Year). While Taipei will feel like a ghost town, Ho Chi Minh City is still populous enough that many places are still very much open and the city hits that sweet spot between busy but not overwhelmingly so. It might be the least smoggiest few days of the whole year! Not to mention, the main street, Nguyen Hue Street, is absolutely packed with gorgeous decorations to celebrate whichever Zodiac year it is. Go to the Apartment Cafes to get a coffee and see the whole thing from above. 

And when you need a city break, instead of heading north to hot spots like Hoi An, Da Nang, or Hanoi, head east for the beaches or south for the Mekong Delta.

Xi’an, China

Xi’an is such an incredible place. Their main claim to fame is the mystical Terracotta Warriors, but what I love about it is its history as an ancient capital. The city still has so much of that romance and historic feel. It’s also completely walled in, so you truly cannot get lost. Just wander around til you hit a wall and then go the other way!

Doengal, Ireland

Donegal is about a 3-hour drive from the Dublin Airport and has a spot that I think is even more dramatic than the Cliffs of Moher — the Slieve League Cliffs. They’re 2.5 times higher and feel like there’s not a single soul there. While you visit Donegal, stop into Leo’s Tavern. Not only is it a fantastic spot to grab a pint and enjoy the music, it’s home to the Brennan family. You may have heard of their most famous member. She known best by her first name… Enya.

What are your thoughts on Dead Week travel? Have you ever planned a trip during one? Let me know!

The post Why You Should Consider Traveling During a Dead Week appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

First things first, either get your passport or make sure it doesn’t need to be renewed.

Before I even get into the other resolutions, we should address the most important (and probably least fun) one first. If you do not have a passport, take this as your sign to get one now instead of waiting. They last ten years, so even if you don’t have an international trip coming up in 2026, wouldn’t you rather have one less thing to worry about when you do?

And for those of you with passports, take it out right now and check both the expiration date and how many blank pages you have left. Time flies, and a lot of countries have specific entry requirements when it comes to both. For example, many will require your passport to be valid 2-3 months starting the day you arrive AND have 2 blank pages.

Plan for your whole year of travel NOW!

If your goal is to maximize your travel opportunities this year, then I would sit down with a calendar and start mapping out your vacation days now. 

Americans are the WORST when it comes to taking the vacation time we are owed, and so many people I know end the year with unused time off that doesn’t carry over. One analysis estimated Americans had more than $312 billion in unused vacation days in 2023. Make this year the year you do not do that and take every single day you’re owed!

Mapping everything out now when you’re in that “new year, new me” mindset will make you much more likely to actually go on those trips when the time comes.

Plan your trip using REAL people.

If you’re the type of person to plan a trip with ChaptGPT or some other AI robot… Please let this be the year you utilize REAL people and their experiences! Besides the damage AI data centers are doing to our planet, ChatGPT is only as good as the information it can pull from the internet. Whether you use a travel agent or research posts from bloggers and content creators online, just get your advice from actual, living, breathing human beings this year.

Make sure you’re healthy.

I don’t know about you, but as I get older, I find I’m paying more attention to my body’s overall health – and it’s not just because I want to be fit for the camera. It’s more like I want to make sure I can handle the physical toll a trip can take. Imagine visiting the Great Wall of China and getting too winded to walk more than ten minutes? Or worse you pull something in the middle of your tour!

I generally just want to make sure my joints move the way they’re supposed to and that I have enough strength and endurance to enjoy wherever I go. Part of that means doing more weightlifting at the gym but also just stretching more and committing to warming up in the morning.

Plus health is more than just physical fitness. Now’s the time to check on your internal health as well – think heart, stomach, etc. You do NOT want to learn you have a heart condition halfway around the world.

Travel alone.

I love to travel alone and find it incredibly rewarding. With no “partner in crime,” I open up to meeting new people and seeking new experiences, plus people find me more approachable as well. Not in a creepy way either. 

Alone you go where YOU want, see what YOU want to see, and wander to your heart’s content. It’s a fantastic way of getting to know yourself better and challenging yourself in a variety of ways. There’s something both liberating and empowering when you are 100% in control of your schedule even if it’s just for a day trip or a full vacation.

Expand your bucket list.

Here’s a little challenge for you – expand your bucket list. By that I mean pick maybe 2-3 random places around the world and do a little research on them. See if they make your travel bucket list. Go for really far off places from where you live or, hey, look around your state and see if there’s a town or region you’d never looked into before. Part of what makes travel so fun is being curious, so keep growing your curiosity!

Plan that trip you’ve been dreaming of.

Have you been daydreaming of wandering the cobblestone streets of Italy for years and years… and years and years? Well, there’s no time like the present! So plan that trip, and start doing it now. Did you know the psychologists say that just planning a vacation puts you in the same happy zone as going on one? Planning gets you ever closer to your dream (and is free) and then you’ll have planned so much of your trip it will eventually happen. Think “if you build it, they will come…” but instead it’s “if you plan it, you will go.”

Stop over-packing.

Here’s a resolution for you overpackers. Make a plan to pack better. I’ll never forget the craziness of dealing with luggage lost in Europe one summer. It made me tell my mom we were only taking carry-ons for our 9-day winter trip later that year. Trust me it’s doable. Sure, in the beginning I was worried I didn’t have enough clothing options, but, you know what? I was just fine, and by mid-trip I was so happy we were traveling light. No lugging 50lb suitcases for us!

Master the art of airline miles and credit card points.

Unless you have a long-term plan, why hoard your miles and credit card points? Use ‘em! From deals on flights to hotels and rental cars, make your miles and points work for you instead of collecting proverbial dust. If the thought of figuring them out feels daunting, let me make it as simple as possible.

Put everything on your credit cards and pay them off immediately. Every dollar spent will go towards points, and the key is figuring out which credit cards make the most sense for what you want. I recommend looking up some beginner tutorials or asking a friend who’s well versed in points and miles to “explain it to you like you’re five.” The key is to keep it simple and not get too into the whole “open up 5 different cards to maximize your points” scenarios. At most you need 1-2 to take full advantage of their offerings.

Plus many cards have added perks like lounge access, Global Entry or TSA Pre-check reimbursement, and rental car insurance!

Travel outside your comfort zone.

Do you visit the same resort every February? Do you only book cruises because they’re easy? Do you only ever eat the same ten different foods? Why not change it up? Pick your favorite port town and spend a week there. Rent a house in your usual place to get more of a feel for the local vibe. And if ease is important to you, work with a travel agent. 

Travel is a natural environment for challening your comfort zone. Whether you’re somewhere completely new or a place you’ve visited many times, pushing through the discomfort of something you aren’t used to and coming out the other side still alive will reward you with not only self-confidence, but often a fulfilling travel experience. This applies when you aren’t traveling too!

What’s your best travel-related New Year’s resolution? Share in the comments below!

The post New Year’s Resolutions for Travelers appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

Check below for some places that might convince even the biggest snowbird in your group to change direction come winter!

Winter Destinations Worth Visiting if You Love the Cold

1. Madison, Wisconsin

Madison, Wisconsin is one of those destinations that I think is somehow more magical come winter. Once that lake freezes over, the whole city transforms into an entirely new space, and it’s simply mesmerizing. Stay at the Edgewater Hotel, which sits right on the lake, and watch as locals walk across it. The best is when university students cut a hole and jump right in! 

To cozy up, go to one of the city’s supper clubs. It’s an old school dining experience where you can enjoy good food and good company. Be sure to start your meal with Wisconsin’s take on an Old Fashioned.

For more, check out my weekend guide here.

2. Tromsø, Norway

If you’re looking to chase Northern Lights, you want to head as far north in Norway as possible. Your best bet is to base yourself in Tromsø and either drive or take a tour out to the darker areas nearby. In the meantime, the city itself looks just like all those miniature Christmas villages come to life. The best way to enjoy all the colorful facades is zigzagging your way from downtown up to the more residential areas. It’s a small city, so it won’t take you very long.

I’d strongly recommend trying out a Norwegian sauna experience while you’re here, as well as taking advantage of their cosy cafe culture. Get the waffles and brown cheese!

3. Vienna, Austria

Vienna, Austria is an urban winter fairy tale. The city itself is absolutely glorious with a little bit of snow, and if you get too cold, you can easily spend hours visiting palaces from the Austrian Empire. Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace alone could occupy full days! My personal favorite is Hofburg Palace. It’s where the Austrian National Library is located and the Grand Hall will knock your socks off. Not to mention all the books are organized by size.

In between sightseeing, try tafelspitz, a classic Viennese dish of boiled veal or beef in broth, served with a mix of minced apples and horseradish. And if you really want to make your winter trip special, go to one of Vienna’s balls! Winter is Ball Season, and tickets are available to all. Nothing quite as fun as dressing to the nines and dancing to a full orchestra.

4. Nagano Prefecture, Japan

When it comes to winter in Japan, head to Nagano Prefecture for all things skiing, hot springs, and… snow monkeys! You’ll be spoiled for choice surrounded by the Japanese Alps; there’s at least 80 ski resorts to choose from depending on your skill level. Pick one that has its own onsen system so you can spend your evenings soaking in a hot spring.

When you need a break from the slopes, head to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park for the snow monkeys or into one of Nagano’s smaller towns for history and culture. Matsumoto is particularly charming. As a bonus, it’s the hometown of artist Yayoi Kusama, so you can see much of her world famous work at the Matsumoto City Museum of Art.

5. Big Sky, Montana

I mean what destination says winter like Big Sky, Montana? Considering they see 250 inches of snow on average… I’d say they know their way around freezing temperatures. Come here if you want to take full advantage of the outdoors. Between skiing or snowboarding, nearby Yellowstone National Park, fly fishing in the Gallatin River, or going on a real life sleigh ride, there’s so much to do to keep you outside. Just make sure you wear all the right gear to stay warm.

6. Copenhagen, Denmark

What better place to put hygge, the Danish concept of cozy warmth and belonging, to the test than where it was popularized? With its colorful facades and plethora of cafés, Copenhagen manages to combat the winter grays with its architecture and cozy culture. The city goes even further come February when the weather is at its bleakest and the sun sets as early as 3:30 PM.

For three weeks, the Copenhagen Light Festival brightens the inner city and harbor with a variety of illuminations and light art. Plus, if you can time your visit with their annual dining week (usually the second week of February), you can take advantage of different restaurant deals. This is the city of Michelin restaurants, after all!

7. Québec City, Canada

Québec City is a winter fairytale come to life. Not only do the Québécois embrace the snow with vigor, most of the city really does look like it belongs in some medieval folktale. Whether it’s the grandiose Fairmont Le Château Frontenac watching from above or the European style of Old Québec, you’ll wonder if you stepped back in time. Stroll along Petit-Champlain, hop in a wooden toboggan to speed down Au 1884 Slide, and head over to Île d’Orléans for semi-frozen falls and a cozy sugar shack experience. If you really want to embrace the cold, plan your visit around the Québec Winter Carnival in early February. 

Oh, and there’s always ice canoeing for the truly adventurous!

8. The Valais Region, Switzerland

It’s pretty impossible to pinpoint just one Swiss destination to enjoy come winter but if I absolutely had to, I’d choose the Valais Region. Start in the beautiful city of Geneva before hopping on the train to Corsier-sur-Vevey. There you can visit Chaplin’s World and explore all things Charlie Chaplin.

Then head to Nendaz, a tiny mountain village where you can take part in just about any winter activity imaginable. Martigny is another gem for one very specific reason – the St. Bernard! At BarryLand, you can both learn more about Switzerland’s National Dog and interact with them. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to be bombarded with puppies.

9. Traverse City, Michigan

There’s a lot to love about Traverse City all year round, and in winter that means pure adventure. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore absolutely transforms once snow starts falling. That Dune Climb turns into the perfect sledding hill while the hiking trails turn into the perfect cross country skiing trails. And if you really want to try something fun, look into fat biking. These mountain bikes are specially adapted to cycle on snow and sand. When you need a break, there’s a fantastic food and local wine scene. Whatever you do, make sure to try the raclette at Leelanau Cheese.

10. Lake Placid, New York

To round out this list, I have to mention the very place I love bringing my kids every year. Lake Placid was home to the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, so you know it makes for a fun cold weather stop. I actually just got the whole family ice skates for our last trip! Come January and February, Mirror Lake is perfect for ice skating or cross country skiing and even offers dog sledding, which my kids loved.

There are still Olympic venues up and running like the speed skating oval where Eric Heiden won FIVE medals. And for downhill skiers, Whiteface Mountain has the greatest vertical east of the Rockies with nearly 300 skiable acres and 94 trails. If you have someone in your crew who would rather do something a little less active, send them to Main Street – it’s right out of a Hallmark movie!

And there you have some of my favorite winter destinations!

Any I’m missing? What snowy destination would you want to see us feature in Places to Love next? Let me know below!

The post Destinations that Especially Shine in Winter appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

Editor’s Note: This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission from purchases through these links at NO COST to you.

Packing Tips for Winter Travel

Winter weather CAN feel different even if the temperatures are the same

There is such a difference between dry and humid winter climates! I always say if you’re traveling anywhere in Europe in winter, know that the weather tends to be much wetter, so not only will you want to make sure you have a warm jacket and boots, you also want to make sure both are waterproof. It’s not just enough that they’re water or weather resistant.

Packing will also depend on what you’re doing

Another thing to keep in mind is that you’ll want to pack differently depending on what you’ll be doing on your trip. Chances are you don’t need to wear the same outfit on the slopes as you do wandering around Christmas markets.

Pick your base layers wisely

Am I the only one who doesn’t quite know the difference between long underwear, long johns, and base layers? As far as I can tell they all mean the same thing – a layer of clothing you wear against your skin. The key to a good base layer isn’t necessarily that it insulates you against the elements but that it keeps your skin dry. It’s why you want to look at thinner, moisture-wicking material. Sweating, after all, is a cooling process, and that’s the last thing you want to go through in subzero temperatures. There’s a reason winter athletes don’t recommend wearing cotton as a base layer despite it being warm and feeling nice against the skin.

If you’re looking for less expensive options, most synthetic shirts and leggings will do the job. For more natural materials, look at merino wool and silk. Lands’ End often has great deals on their silk base layers!

Wear fitted middle layers for better insulation

Now when it comes to actually staying warm, you want to make sure the middle layers keep your body heat in. Make sure they’re fitted so you don’t feel like Randy in A Christmas Story when his mom gets him ready for school! You can never go wrong with wool (merino or otherwise), cashmere, or thicker cotton especially in terms of overall longevity. If any of those fabrics sound cost prohibitive, I recommend checking secondhand shops both in person and online. You’d be surprised at what you can find!

Here’s how to choose your outerwear

When it comes to outerwear, keep in mind that this is what’s going to shield you from whatever weather you find yourself in. Icy winds, sudden snowfalls, (*shudder*) freezing rain… if you invest in anything, let it be a solid winter coat.

While everyone has different style preferences I’m a big fan of parkas. Personally, I prefer one that goes below my bum but doesn’t make me feel like I’m walking in a sleeping bag. My parka also has to have a great pocket system and be water resistant at least (waterproof is better). 

I always say get your jacket to fit a bit looser so that it can accommodate all the layers you need while still allowing for a bit of airflow. If you’re planning to do a lot of outdoor activities, you may even want to look at jackets that have side zips.
As a bonus, get a parka with a fur or faux fur trim. They’re scientifically proven to keep your face warmer. And if you already have a jacket without one, consider getting a ruff to attach and detach as needed.

And not to forget outwear for your legs…

Of course, I’m not going to forget about your bottom half! For the most part you should be okay with a base layer and your normal pants, though you may want to size up with your jeans to allow more room. 

If you know you’re going to be outdoors for extended time, you’re going to want some sort of snowpant. Even if you’re not skiing or doing intense physical activities, you’ll find snow pants can really help you stay outside for longer. If you’re worried about looking too bulky, look at cross-country ski pants. They tend to be sleeker while still managing to block out wind and water better than a regular pair of jeans or trousers.
And, of course, if you plan on running outside – fleeced lined leggings are a must! Lands’ End makes incredible pairs.

Focus on your head and your feet

As I was always told growing up, body heat escapes through your head and your feet first, so don’t neglect them! If you go out in subzero temperatures without any headgear and thin socks… you’re going to struggle to get warm the rest of the day.

When it comes to hats, I keep mine on both indoors and outdoors in the winter because once that thing goes on, there’s no way I’m taking it off and dealing with crazy hat hair!! With that in mind, I look for ones that can balance style and function.
And as for your feet, sturdy socks are a must! Get them well over the ankle for extra warmth and layers. I always go for merino wool because they’re also odor resistant. When it comes to brands, Darn Tough is based in Vermont, and if there’s a state that knows a thing or two about dressing for the cold…

Forget about your nice shoes

If you’re going somewhere with snow, save yourself the luggage weight and do not even look in the direction of your nice, dainty shoes. I could see maybe bringing a thin pair of flats if you’re staying in a fancier resort and need to dress up for meals, but otherwise you are not going to wear them. 

Instead, you’re going to want to invest in boots. 

There’s a lot to consider with boots – walkability, warmth, sturdiness against the elements… None of the options that fit these terms are exactly sexy but they will keep your feet warm and dry. I would recommend two pairs. Get a hiking boot style for walks and sightseeing and then a heavy duty pair for everything else you do. 

Danner, Merrell, Oboz, Keen, Sorels, and Salomon make great options, and for really serious outdoors activities, Bogs is a classic. I actually once asked a Maine lobsterman what he wears in the winter, and he replied, “I only wear Bogs.”

Keep your skin hydrated

Just remember, your skin is going to take a beating. Heated buildings mean much drier air and those snowy landscapes mean the sun is going to reflect right back up at you. I’m pretty sure the UV rays are, in fact, more intense when reflected off snow! 

Don’t neglect your SPF and bring extra moisturizing products to counteract how dry the heat will feel. I love hydrating sticks from Mustela and Jones Road. I actually discovered the Mustela Nourishing Stick because I bought it for my twins when they were babies! It was so hydrating and soft, I still get it now. Just roll it over your cheeks, lips, and under your nose. Aquaphor is another tried and true brand for extra moisture and protection from the elements.

Mittens or Gloves?

Ahh the age old winter question when it comes to your hands – mittens or gloves?

Gloves, which cover each individual finger, offer much better dexterity but mittens, which cover the hand as a whole, are warmer. Honestly? Just pack both! For regular wear, I love Namakan’s faux-fur driving mittens and really any glove you can pick up at your nearby outdoors shop. (Although, here’s a throwback for fellow 80s kids – Freaky Freezies are very much still a thing!)

If you have the funds, you could also invest in a pair that has both options like these Swany mittens. You can just unzip to have access to your fingers without taking the whole thing off.

Don’t neglect the neck!

The head and the feet are important but don’t neglect your neck! A nice, thick scarf really can make the difference. I would know, I have them in all fabrics and colors even when it’s not winter out. 

If you want something that’ll take up less room, look at neck gaiters. It’s what you’ll also see skiers and snowboarders wearing over their mouths and around their necks! You can choose between simple fleece ones or more technical merino wool options. I like to travel with 1-2 just because they tend to get wet so it’s nice to have a dry one handy just in case.

Save yourself from slippin’ and slidin’

Fun fact: there are some winter destinations that never use salt. Even in NYC, there are often times I find myself on icy sidewalks! Waddling like a penguin is not particularly fun or efficient and, even worse, is breaking a hip somewhere where you don’t speak the language! Get a pair of microspikes from Kahtoola. It’s what runners use when they train in the winter, but they sell spikes for a variety of needs. The rubber grippers can be slid over just about any shoe or boot and it’s not quite as intense getting spikes.

For extra warmth – get some hand warmers

If you find yourself needing even more warmth, look into packing some hand warmers. While the single use ones are popular, if you’re worried about the waste, you can also get rechargeable ones.

Do you have any tips for winter travel packing? Let me know below!

The post How to Pack Like a Pro for Winter Travel appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

Another great thing about experiential gifts is price—they run the gamut from thousands of dollars to absolutely free. The best part? The memories you’ll create, which are priceless.

Here are my favorite experiential gifts.

1. Get the outdoorsy person in your life an annual state or national park pass.
2. Art lover? Membership to a local art museum.
3. Looking for a kid’s gift? Hello, annual zoo or children’s museum pass.
4. Kids will go crazy over a gift card for a favorite ice cream shop.
5. A fun board game, like Apples to Apples, What Do You Meme, Bananagrams.
6. Spark your wanderlust without leaving your couch with a copy of Comfortably Wild: The Best Glamping Destinations in North America. This stunning coffee table book features fabulous treehouses, Airstreams, domes and more. Get a custom signed copy here.

7. Costco membership. Is it a store? Is it an experience? Is it a lifestyle? Who can even be sure these days!
8. Concert tickets.
9. Hotels do gift cards! Get them one and they can put it toward their next vacation.
10. Wine or beer tasting at a local brewery/restaurant/wine shop.
11. Check out a local dinner theater.
12. Book a food tour in your own city.
13. Create a mini spa day, with a manicure, pedicure and maybe even a little champagne.
14. Give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
15. Plan a weekend at a cabin or hotel a few hours away.
16. Take a sushi making class.
17. Plan a scavenger or treasure hunt (kids will love this!)
18. Give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
19. Stand-up comedy show!
20. Improv comedy show!
21. Gift card to Libro.fm—the first audiobook company that allows you to buy audiobooks through local booksellers!
22. Does your parent always talk about a dream vacation—like eating their way through Italy, exploring India’s colorful cities, hiking in Patagonia? Offer to help them plan, or if you’ve got some extra cash squirreled away, take them there!
23. Pay for someone’s passport. Help them navigate the application process.
24. Spotify membership. Crank tunes ad-free all year long.
25. Take a day trip to a cute small town with antique stores, quaint breakfast spots, and dive bars.
26. Go out for brunch.
27. Plan a movie marathon, complete with popcorn, drinks and cozy socks.
28. Learn a craft—glass blowing, wood working, ceramics, pottery.

29. Bring someone to an animal shelter and help them meet a furry roommate!
30. A fun jigsaw puzzle, especially one from a favorite place they’ve visited (how great is this one?).
31. Embrace your inner Great British Bake-off contestant and taking a cake making class at your local kitchen store.
32. Give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
33. A night or two at a posh hotel.
34. Book a day cruise or sunset cruise.
35. Gift card to the planetarium or science museum.
36. Indoor rock climbing.

37. Horseback riding.
38. Hot air balloon ride
39. Helicopter tour (splurge, but worth it!)
40. Indoor skydiving (outdoor could be great too, but know your audience.)
41. Take the kids for the day and let them be. Please, please, please get me this.
42. Gift card for a local yoga studio.
43. Ever done a float tank? Perfect for anyone who doesn’t get enough rest and relaxation.
44. Get tarot card readings. So fun to do in anticipation of the new year!
45. Subscription to the Calm app—who couldn’t use a little more ommmm in their life?
46. Take a train ride! You could do a short, scenic trip, or book a weekender on Amtrak (if you don’t love it, maybe it will make appreciate air travel again).
47. Give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
48. Take a ghost tour.
49. Top Golf!
50. Bowling!
51. Ice skating!
52. Roller skating! Everybody snowball!
53. Visit a salt cave. Whisper about whether or not you think it actually works.
54. Does your town have a sauna co-op?
55. Try an ancient bath ritual, like this one.
56. A recipe box subscription, like Blue Apron or Hello Fresh. You give them the code, they do the ordering—no one wants a surprise dinner they have to cook themselves.

57. Give the Dark Sky app. It’s a high tech weather radar that gets hyperlocal—Yes, it only costs $3.99 to give the gift of being a weather person!
58. Give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
59. Give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
60. Teach a family member a family recipe, or see if an older relative can teach you a family recipe.
61. Go to an author reading or book signing at your local book shop
62. Check out an escape room. Go with your family for extra incentive to get out quickly.
63. Give a gift card to a favorite local restaurant.
64. Sign up for a knitting, sewing or crocheting class.
65. A cool cribbage board and deck of cards. If you get a small enough one, they’re easy to travel with, too.
66. A great bullet journal.
67. Test drive a Tesla. Fingers crossed they let you go into ludicrous mode—some models go from 0 to 60 in 2.4 seconds.  

68. A flower arranging class.
69. These DIY bitters kits are the perfect gift for the cocktail aficionado
70. Axe throwing is definitely a thing now, and I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a place to do it near you.
71. Try Aerial yoga. It’s fun, and harder than it looks!
72. Plan a picnic with your loved one’s favorite foods… even if it’s freezing cold, you can host one on the living room floor.
73. A friendship lamp is perfect for long distance relationships. These in-sync lamps change color with a touch of your hand—or your loved one’s hand, no matter how far away they live. Each person sets up their lamp via Wi-Fi, then reaches out and touches the lamp whenever they want to let their loved one know they’re thinking of them. A material thing that fills every day with warm fuzzies.
74. Buy a great cookbook and make a standing date to make something from it once a month together.
75. Have I mentioned giving a gift card to a favorite local restaurant?
76. Try all the so-called “best” burgers, pizzas, tacos, wings, whatever your town has to offer. Make a booklet or check list you can use to track your progress and comments throughout the year.
77. Make getting outside in bad weather more enticing with these traction cleats that can attach to any boot!
78. Go sledding or tubing at a local ski hill.
79. Learn to cross country ski.
80. Or downhill ski.
81. Or snowboard.
82. Take part in a Japanese tea ceremony—most larger cities offer things like this, either at a local tea shop or even at a conservatory or library!
83. Give the gift of Hulu, Netflix, HBO Go, Disney+ or your favorite streaming service.
84. Take an improv class.
85. Give your favorite people a self-addressed, stamped postcard. Tell them to pop it in the mail when they’re feeling down later in the year. When you receive it, bake them cookies and send them in the mail.
86. Book a farm stay and lend a hand gathering eggs and caring for animals. Or just stay at a B&B on a farm and pretend you helped.
87. Bring your kids to something you adored from your own childhood—a soda fountain, Christmas window displays at the big department store, a classic arcade.
88. Plan a glamping trip in a yurt or rustic cabin.
89. Take kids on any sort of unique form of transportation. A trolley or train ride is pretty darn exciting for most kids. Even a city bus! You can’t make this stuff up.
90. Learn how to craft a perfect latte at a coffee making class.
91. I love an adult coloring book! Pair with the mega box of crayons or colored pencils.
92. Set up a family photo shoot. Get fancy and book a photographer. If you make it quick and easy, your family will forget the awkwardness of smiling for the camera the moment they see all the wonderful photos.
93. Give a gift card for a favorite restaurant.
94. Create a home wine or beer tasting experience. Buy a selection of the same genre of wine or beer (sauvignon blanc or stouts, for example). Offer bottles from different price points, parts of the world, etc. It can be consumed as a part of an event, or one at a time throughout the next few months.
95. Make someone a playlist. Bonus points if it’s on a CD. Double bonus points if it’s an actual mixed tape.
96. Teach someone guitar, piano or whatever you’re good at!

97. Have someone’s astrological birth chart mapped out.
98. Hire someone a housecleaning service.
99. Know someone who really loves to travel? Why not book them a flying lesson!
100. A surprise visit from a friend or family member they haven’t seen in awhile. Maybe even you!

What’s the best experience-based gift you’ve given or received? Share in the comments!

Editor’s Note: This article contains affiliate links. Samantha-Brown.com uses affiliate links as a source for revenue to fund site operations. Samantha-Brown.com stands behind all product recommendations.

The post 100 Experience-based Holiday Gift Ideas appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

If you’ve been a longtime viewer of “Places to Love,” you know we love featuring locally-owned businesses wherever we go. Below is a guide to some of the products featured on the show that would make absolutely fantastic gifts. From forged carbon-steel knives you can pass down for generations to ski-pole toilet plungers to a travel wheelchair tool kit, consider this a gift guide to love! Want more gift ideas? Check out my Travel Gift Guide for the travel lover in your life!

Some of the products listed below are affiliate links. I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Beignet Mix & Coffee from Cafe du Monde

From our “New Orleans” episode

If you, too, love beignets from Cafe du Monde, good news. You can make them at home! They sell their beignet mix and coffee beans online here, so you can really feel like you’re right back in New Orleans getting powdered sugar all over your clothes!

A Cheerful Painting from Marianne Angeli Rodriguez

From our “New Orleans” episode

If you have someone who loves to decorate with bright, cheerful colors, consider paintings or prints by Marianne Angeli Rodriguez. She’s based in Covington, a small town across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans, and describes her work as “joy-inducing art for the color obsessed.”

Anything Cherry from Cherry Republic

From our “Traverse City, MI” episode

Fun fact about the northwest lower peninsula of Michigan: it’s the largest producer of tart cherries in America! Traverse City is actually known as “The Cherry Capital of the World.” For anyone shopping for a cherry lover, check out Cherry Republic.

Raclette Cheese from Leelanau Cheese

From our “Traverse City, MI” episode

Another food gem from Traverse City is the raclette cheese at Leelanau Cheese. They’ve actually won Super Gold at the World Cheese Awards and beat out nearly 4,000 other global companies to place in the top 100! They’ve got a lot of different options that make for great gifts in their shop.

Cadillac Jewelry from Lile Art Gallery

From our “Route 66: Oklahoma – Texas” episode

I love unique jewelry, and nowhere else sells Cadilite jewelry like Lile Art Gallery. Artist Bob “Crocodile” Lile visits the nearby Cadillac Ranch to collect spray paint chips and turns them into colorful pieces you can wear. I personally love the heart pendant!

Christmas Decor from Käthe Wohlfahrt

From our “Mainz, Wiesbaden, Rothenburg, Germany” episode

When it comes to places perfect for Christmas-themed travel, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany, is usually at the top of the list. And while you may not be able to visit for its Christmas Markets, you can be a part of the spirit with Käthe Wohlfahrt. The shop is open all year round and stocks something like 20,000 handmade items! Check their online shop because I can guarantee anyone who’s a Christmas-lover will be delighted by a gift from here.

Treasures from Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post

From our “Black Hills of South Dakota” episode

Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, Prairie Edge & Sioux Trading Post is a great place to shop for Native American art that benefits the Northern Plains tribes. They sell so many great products, but I especially love the quilts and beaded work.

Coffee Beans from Zamora Coffee 

From “Portland, Oregon”

Hector Mejia Zamora is not only the owner of Café Zamora in Portland, Oregon but is also a part of a cooperative of forty other small coffee farmers growing Guatemalan coffee and shipping it directly to his café. They all work together and have even managed to build a school, two different mills, and a clinic for their collective. Get your loved one one of his bags of coffee beans or sign them up for a subscription.

An Heirloom Puzzle from The Puzzle Lab

From “Victoria, British Columbia”

‘Tis the season where everyone wants an indoor activity. And who doesn’t love a good puzzle? I’ll raise you a typical 1,000-piece puzzle with the unique creations from The Puzzle Lab in Victoria, British Columbia. They create their puzzles with more abstract designs and all art is curated from Canadian and Indigenous artists who get a percentage from every puzzle sold. 

Carmel Honey Company

From “Monterey & Big Sur”

Back when I met the founder of Carmel Honey Company, Jake Reisdorf, he was just fourteen! Now he’s in college and continuing his mission to save the world, one honeycomb at a time. He tends to 70+ hives and creates a variety of raw honey with his parents. In addition to creating honey (and, of course, going to school), he focuses on bee education and saving bees from extinction. Grab any of his honey gift boxes or bath and beauty products for a very sweet gift. 

Clothing from Magpies & Peacocks

From “The Makers”

This one is for fashion lovers! Based in Houston, Sarah Jane Smith founded Magpies & Peacocks over a decade ago, and since then she’s been diverting literal tons of clothing from landfills and transforming them into one-of-a-kind, luxury pieces. They work with a number of designers and artists and are the country’s only 501(c)3 non-profit design house that focuses on reducing fashion’s environmental and social impact. I picked up the dress in this post’s cover photo while visiting!

Clyde Butcher Photography Books

From “Naples & the Paradise Coast, Florida”

Clyde Butcher’s photography is perfect for anyone who could use a little more peace in their life. He’s a black and white fine arts photographer and environmentalist who focuses on landscapes and is often dubbed the next Ansel Adams. Don’t take my word for it – he just became a National Medal of Arts recipient in 2024! Get one of his many photography books for your home and flip through when you need a moment of quiet solitude.

Flo’s Hot Dog Relish

From “Coastal Maine”

Want to know how to make a hot dog life-changing? Buy some Flo’s Hot Dog Relish and add generously. I’ve been visiting Flo’s in Maine for over 40 years, and I loved their hot dogs so much I served them at my wedding. The relish is a homemade family secret, and I love that I can have it on hand even when I’m hours away in Brooklyn.

Harney & Sons Tea

From “Dutchess County, New York”

This is a gift idea for all fellow tea lovers. Harney & Sons was founded right in Millerton, New York about forty years ago and now has over 300+ flavors. My go-to is their Supreme Breakfast blend.

Danny Clinch Prints

From “The Jersey Shore & More”

What might just be cooler than being a rock star? Being the guy who photographs rock stars! Danny Clinch has photographed some of music’s biggest names, and I got to see his work when I visited his gallery in legendary Asbury Park. If you want to splurge, you can purchase one of his iconic prints (just scroll through for all the famous names!) or check out one of his books or posters.

Perfume or Skincare from Burren Perfumery

From Limerick, Ireland 

Located in County Clare, Ireland, The Burren Perfumery taps into its mystical surroundings to create some of the most beautiful skincare and perfumes. Everything is made, bottled, and packaged in small batches onsite.

Food Kits from Kenny & Ziggy’s Deli

From “Houston, Texas (S5)”

Everything’s bigger in Texas, right? At least that’s the motto Ziggy Gruber adopted when he opened up Kenny and Ziggy’s Delicatessen in Houston! They’re known for their delicious skyscraper sandwiches, and now you can purchase one of their food kits to make at home. Just think – pastrami sandwiches, smoked whitefish, noodle kugel… all delivered right to your doorstep! Check out all the food kit options here.

Art from 18Loves

From ”Savannah, Georgia”

If you ever visit Savannah, you can find 18Loves Art in the glass box of joy located in the Plant Riverside District. Founder Amelia Jamerson is a SCAD graduate, and all her work focuses on positivity and optimism. Each piece is meant to inspire love and encouragement. Her online shop is full of colorful designs from prints to calendars and even an adorable coloring book.

Delicacies from Bourbon Barrel Foods

From “The Makers”

Bourbon and Kentucky are practically synonymous but have you ever wondered what happens to those barrels used to age the famous drink? Bourbon Barrel Foods has managed to figure out a way to reuse them to make everything from sauces to spices to sweets. Their yuzu soy sauce is my personal go-to. Shop their selection here.

Beautiful Homeware from Stoneware & Co 

From “Louisville, Kentucky”

Another Louisville gem? Stoneware & Co. Immigrants coming west used to stock up on necessities in this city. Think heavy and tough crocks, plates, bowls, and more – the kind of sturdy items that could survive long trips on barges and wagons. Stoneware & Co. was the first of its kind in Louisville. Founded by Jacob Lewis in 1815, the company still operates today using the same methods of craftsmanship passed down for generations.

A Knife Set from Steelport Knife Co

From “Portland, Oregon”

Talk to anyone who spends time in the kitchen, and they’ll tell you – a good knife can make all the difference. And no one does it quite like Steelport Knife Co. Their knives are hand forged in Portland, Oregon and intended to create an heirloom product that can last generations.

Colorado Ski Furniture

From “Colorado Springs, Colorado”

When it comes to old ski equipment, Adam Vernon has managed to design some truly unique products at Colorado Ski Furniture. Think gorgeous Adirondack chairs, beautiful benches, and… ski pole plungers. No, I’m not kidding!

Mustard Gift Boxes

From Madison, Wisconsin

Did you know that the National Mustard Museum is right outside of Madison, Wisconsin? And that this museum has the largest mustard collection in the world? As you might guess, their online shop has a ton of potential gifts for any mustard-lover in your life. I’d personally go for one of their mystery gift boxes!

A Wheelchair Survival Tool Kit

From “Chattanooga, Tennessee” 

If you have a wheelchair user in your life, travel blogger Cory Lee from Curb Free with Cory Lee, has put together the perfect gift – a wheelchair survival toolkit. And trust me, he knows what he’s talking about. As a wheelchair user, he’s visited all seven continents and has been through it all (including a hippo attack in South Africa!) His kit only weighs 2 pounds (less than 1kg) and has everything you need for on-the-go wheelchair repairs.

Spicewalla Spices 

From Asheville, North Carolina 

Looking to experiment with cooking this year? Check out the spices from Chef Meherwan Irani’s Spicewalla brand. If you’ve ever been to his James Beard-winning restaurant, Chai Pani, you know firsthand just how mouthwateringly delicious his creations are. All spices are hand-blended and really allow you to experiment with some incredible flavors. If you’re not sure where to start, just check out Spicewalla’s recipe page.

Bespoke Pieces from Ari O Jewelry

From Big Sky, Montana

For those looking to buy a really beautiful piece of jewelry, Ariane Coleman founded Ari O Jewelry as a small batch artisan gemstone and metal jewelry store. All pieces are inspired by Montana’s nature and are made by hand.

Have you ever purchased something from a Places to Love business? I’d LOVE to hear about it below!

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The post A “Places to Love” Gift Guide appeared first on Samantha Brown's Places to Love.

Catch our “Quebec City” episode below

Visiting Quebec City in the Winter

Where to Stay in Quebec City

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac

The most obvious answer is Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. If Quebec City belongs in a fairytale, this hotel is the castle that overlooks the whole town. Built in 1893, it seems older because it was inspired by French castles from the late Middle Ages. I first visited when I was nine, and I remember thinking it was the most beautiful building I’d ever seen! 

Hôtel de Glace

For a truly unique winter experience, stay in Hôtel de Glace overnight! It’s about 40 minutes by car from Quebec City, located in Village Vacances Valcartier, and is made entirely out of ice. Yes, entirely!

La Sainte Paix

For something more budget-friendly, look slightly out of Old Quebec. La Sainte Paix is a great hotel set in a former monastery and in the nearby Montcalm neighborhood. 

Ideas for What to Do in Quebec City in Winter

Check out Quebec City’s seasonal events.

Winter in Quebec City lasts from December to March. And while most destinations tend to experience a lull in activity once New Year’s is over, Quebec City is the opposite – it comes alive.

Come in December for the German Christmas Market, which is spread throughout Old Quebec. Then in January, Hôtel de Glace opens to the public. The Québec Winter Carnival and Pentathlon des Neiges are held in February, and in March, you can jam out to Igloofest.

Keep an eye out for Bonhomme!

This cheerful snowman (man of snow?) is the official mascot and ambassador of the Winter Carnival! You’ll see his likeness everywhere from statues to ice carvings but the real joy is seeing him in person. He’s always out and about, so just keep your eyes peeled. If you’re lucky, you might even get a hug.

Fine dine below Old Quebec.

Recently awarded two Michelin stars, Tanière³ is a 3.5-hour dining experience located within the cellars and vaults of a historic Old Quebec building on Rue Saint-Pierre. The whole goal is to enjoy your meal completely free from distractions. Their menu, which you’ll discover as you go, features ingredients found from local forages, raised by local farms, or grown by Chef François-Emmanuel Nicol’s childhood friend

Try your hand at ice canoeing.

Of all the outdoor winter activities to do in or near Quebec City, is there anything quite as quintessentially Québécois as ice canoeing? Its origins go way back to the city’s olden days when the only way to cross the Saint Lawrence River was by water. Back then, the river would be too frozen for ferries to get through but not frozen enough to walk across, so locals would get by with a combination of rowing and running with their canoes. 

These days we have a bridge to drive across but ice canoeing stays alive as a competitive sport. If you want to try it for yourself, check out Canot à Glace.

Wander through Petit-Champlain

Take the funicular from Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and step 400 years back in time in the charming district of Petit-Champlain. This is where the French first settled in North America, and it feels like you’re strolling through a storybook that starts with “Once upon a time…” Rue de Petit-Champlain in particular is straight out of a postcard, thanks to visionaries who saved it from being turned into a parking lot!

Check out the Semi-Frozen Montmorency Falls

For a scenic drive outside of the city, head over to Île d’Orléans. The island is quiet this time of year and perfect if you’re hoping to find peaceful, snowy landscapes. The most impressive, of course, is the semi-frozen Montmorency Falls.

Plus, while you’re here, you can…

Cozy up at Sugar Shack

For those of you waiting for me to mention maple syrup, this is the section for you. When it comes to winter in Quebec, the best place to cozy up is at a sugar shack (or cabane à sucre). These shacks were built near maple trees so that locals could collect sap and then boil it down into syrup. They’d go out during the day to collect maple water and then at night gather around for a huge, hearty meal. These days a classic, winter tradition. Come for a cozy meal (with maple syrup, of course), enjoy live music, and dance! On l’Île d’Orléans, check out Le Relais des Pins.

And for those of you who really love maple syrup, there is a museum you can visit to learn even more about this Canadian staple.

Speed down toboggan style on the Au 1884 Slide.

No wintry visit to Quebec City is complete without at least one ride down the Au 1884 Slide in an old school, wooden toboggan. It’s been a part of Dufferin Terrace since 1884 – pre-dating Château Frontenac. You can ride in a four-seater, but I think it’s much more fun to race your friend on the side-by-side runs!

Are there any more recommendations for winter in Quebec City? Let me know below!

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