Creating Memories Instead of Chasing Dreams
A quick work trip to Southern Washington turned into a memorable adventure along Oregon’s coast and through the stunning Columbia River Gorge. Highlights included a brief visit to Cannon Beach, a scenic drive along the Columbia River Highway, and a hike at Multnomah Falls.
Celebrating Katy’s birthday in Jamaica marked my 35th country/territory visit! We enjoyed thrilling river rapids tubing, serene waterfalls, and the breathtaking Dunn’s River Falls. From a practical IHG stay to the luxurious Breathless Resort, and memorable excursions, this trip combined relaxation with adventure. Read on for insights and tips on making the most of your Jamaican getaway.
We arrived in Malaga late from Lisbon and stayed at Hotel Zen Airport for its proximity to the airport. The highlight of our trip was hiking the Caminito del Rey, a once-dangerous trail now restored for safety. We opted for a guided tour but left early to explore Ronda, where the stunning Puente Nuevo bridge stole the show. Our journey then continued to Algeciras, with plans to visit Gibraltar, which will be covered in a separate post.
On July 2nd, 2022, I finally decided to use my travel points accumulated over the past five years for an exciting trip. With over 1 million points across various credit cards, airlines, and hotels, I rarely use them and often for budget stays or economy flights. Thanks to a tip from travel blogger Max Miles Points, I snagged a business class flight with Iberia from Chicago to Madrid for just 36,000 points and $123. The experience was a luxury, with lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and excellent service, despite a minor cockpit security concern. Upon arrival, we stayed at the Crowne Plaza near the airport, used convenient unlimited data SIM cards, and explored Madrid with a relaxed itinerary. Highlights included visiting Plaza Mayor, Parque de El Retiro, and the Royal Palace. Our day in Madrid was fulfilling, though I felt it could be managed in a single day without splitting the trip before heading to Porto.
Join us as we travel from Glasgow to London by train, enjoying scenic views and saving on costs. Explore London’s iconic landmarks, then journey to Nuthampstead to visit a historic bar where my grandfather was stationed during WWII. Discover the fascinating history of the former American bomber base and experience a poignant connection to the past.
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