Go See Do Explore

10 Tips for Visiting Puerto Rico

On January 13, 2025

10 Tips for Visiting Puerto Rico

Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, Puerto Rico beckons adventurous souls with its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. From the bustling streets of San Juan to the serene beaches of Culebra, this enchanting island offers a tapestry of experiences that will leave you forever enchanted. Join us as we unveil our top 10 tips for making the most of your Puerto Rican adventure, ensuring an unforgettable journey that will ignite your wanderlust and leave you yearning for more.

#1: Embrace the Language
Immerse yourself in the local culture by learning basic Spanish phrases, especially for dining and driving. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, a few well-placed words in Spanish can open doors to authentic experiences and endear you to the friendly locals. From ordering at a roadside eatery to deciphering road signs, a little Spanish will go a long way in enhancing your Puerto Rican escapade.

#2: Prepare for Power Outages
In the wake of Hurricane Maria, power outages are a common occurrence on the island. Ensure your accommodation has a backup power supply, such as a generator or solar panels, and access to water reserves. Embrace the occasional disruption with grace and understanding, for it is a part of the Puerto Rican experience, and your resilience will be rewarded with unforgettable memories.

#4: Venture Beyond San Juan
While San Juan’s allure is undeniable, Puerto Rico’s true magic lies in its diverse regions. Rent a car and embark on a journey through the island’s rugged interior, where quaint towns, lush rainforests, and breathtaking vistas await. From the bioluminescent bays of Vieques to the serene beaches of Culebra, each destination offers a unique slice of Puerto Rican life.

#4: Embrace the Local Culture
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Puerto Rican culture by seeking out opportunities to engage with locals. Savor the flavors of authentic cuisine, from the iconic mofongo to the irresistible alcapurrias. Explore vibrant art galleries, attend cultural festivals, and consider purchasing locally crafted souvenirs that capture the island’s essence.

#5: Explore Beyond the Beaches
While Puerto Rico’s beaches are undoubtedly alluring, the island’s true beauty lies in its diverse landscapes. Venture into the lush El Yunque rainforest, where cascading waterfalls and towering trees create a verdant oasis. Hike through the majestic Cordillera Central mountains, or explore the subterranean wonders of the Camuy River Cave Park, where nature’s artistry takes your breath away.

#6: Explore the Outlying Islands
For a truly immersive Puerto Rican experience, venture beyond the mainland and explore the enchanting offshore islands of Vieques and Culebra. Accessible via ferry or small plane, these idyllic destinations offer a glimpse into a slower, more authentic way of life. From the world-renowned bioluminescent bay of Vieques to the secluded beaches of Culebra, these islands are a must-visit for any adventurous traveler.

#7: Book your rental car early

In order to leave the San Juan area, a car is a necessity and the supply on the island is limited. Be sure to book your rental car early to allow for choices and to avoid high prices. An alternative to the traditional rental car agencies, we recommend Aqui Coqui, a local car sharing platform that is easy to work with and has great rates.

#8: Understand Puerto Rico's History
Puerto Rico’s relationship with the United States is a complex tapestry woven with threads of history, politics, and cultural identity. Take the time to understand this unique dynamic, for it will deepen your appreciation for the island’s resilient spirit and enrich your interactions with its warm-hearted people.

#9: Seek Local Recommendations
Tap into the wealth of knowledge offered by locals and fellow travelers. Explore the DiscoverPuertoRico.com website for insider tips, hidden gems, and authentic experiences that will elevate your journey beyond the ordinary. Embrace the spirit of adventure and let serendipity guide you to unexpected wonders.

#10 Consider Alternate Airports

Most visitors to Puerto Rico arrive through SJU: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan. Be sure to include the airports in Ponce and Aguadilla in your searches as deals can be found to and from these smaller airports on airlines such as United, Frontier, and JetBlue.

Puerto Rico is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences waiting to be unraveled by the intrepid traveler. By embracing these essential tips, you’ll unlock the island’s true essence, creating memories that will forever inspire your wanderlust. So pack your sense of adventure, leave your preconceptions behind, and let Puerto Rico’s captivating charm sweep you off your feet. The journey of a lifetime awaits.

Thanks for stopping by! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

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First Timer’s Guide to Old San Juan

By Ashleigh

On January 6, 2025

In Travel

Old San Juan from the fort

Some of the links below are affiliate links and as such, I earn a small commission from purchases that allow me to continue telling you my stories without costing you anything extra.

Nestled along the shimmering shores of the Caribbean, Old San Juan captivates visitors with its rich history, colorful architecture, and lively spirit. As you wander the blue cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported to a time when Spanish conquistadors roamed and pirates lurked offshore. This iconic neighborhood is the oldest European-established settlement in the United States, brimming with adventure around every corner.

San Juan National Historic Site

No visit to Old San Juan is complete without exploring the imposing fortresses that once guarded this strategic port. The formidable Castillo San Felipe del Morro looms over the entrance to the bay, its thick stone walls and sentry boxes evoking tales of battle and bravery. Stroll along the grassy fields as you gaze out over the crashing waves below. At Castillo San Cristóbal, you can wander through a veritable labyrinth of tunnels, ramps, and outcroppings that offered a stalwart defense. Both forts are now overseen by the National Park Service, offering a captivating glimpse into Puerto Rico’s storied past.

Cat of El Morro

As you explore, be sure to follow the enchanting Paseo del Morro, a path hugging the northern coastline. Here, you’ll discover a colony of friendly feral cats (left) cared for by the nonprofit Save a Gato. These whiskered locals lounge in the tropical sun, adding an extra dose of charm to your stroll. At Christmas, the nearby Paseo de la Princesa dazzles with a festive light display, transforming the historic avenue into a twinkling wonderland.

Christmas Lights at the Fortaleza

One of the greatest joys of Old San Juan is simply wandering its energetic streets and absorbing the vibrant culture. Colorful colonial buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies line the narrow lanes, housing chic boutiques, art galleries, and lively restaurants. Calle Fortaleza is a frequent selfie-stop with colorful umbrellas throughout the year and a light display at Christmas (right). Stop for a refreshing piragua (Puerto Rican shaved ice) from a street vendor or indulge in a fruity popsicle from Señor Paleta. As evening falls, the city takes on a magical air as locals and visitors alike gather for drinks, dancing, and lively conversation.

Old San Juan’s diverse culinary scene will delight any foodie. Savor classic Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo (mashed plantains) and lechón asado (spit-roasted pork) or venture beyond to experience the city’s international flavors. Sip velvety hot chocolate concoctions at Chocobar Cortes, a charming cafe devoted to the cacao bean. For an authentic Old San Juan breakfast, join the locals at Cafeteria Mallorca for a delectable mallorca sandwich – a sweet, buttery bread stuffed with savory fillings.

Streets of Old San Juan

While captivating, Old San Juan can pose some challenges for visitors. The narrow streets were built centuries before cars, so driving is not recommended. Instead, park your rental car and explore on foot or use rideshares to easily navigate the area. Hotel El Colonial is our favorite place to stay in the historic city but the most iconic hotel in the city is probably Hotel El Convento, located in the old convent and across the street from the Cathedral. Visitors need to be prepared for occasional power outages, a lingering effect from Hurricane Maria. To avoid crowds, plan your visit during slower cruise ship seasons or maximize your mornings and evenings when the streets are less congested.

Whether you’re seeking history, cuisine, culture or simply soaking up the laidback island vibe, Old San Juan promises an extraordinary experience. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers hassle-free travel for Americans while delivering the exotic allure of the Caribbean. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to be swept away by the charms of this ancient, sun-drenched city where past and present intertwine in unforgettable ways.

Across the bay from la Fortaleza

2024: A Year in Review

By Ashleigh

On December 30, 2024

In Travel

Sunset from Playa Punta Arenas

2024 year kicked off amidst the palm-fringed beaches and vibrant culture of Puerto Rico. After ringing in 2024 under a kaleidoscope of fireworks in Rincón, we embarked on an enchanting trip to the outlying island of Vieques. This remote isle cast its spell as we kayaked through the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world, Mosquito Bay. With each paddle stroke, the waters sparked to life in a dazzling display of nature’s magic, fish illuminating the depths like shooting stars. It was an experience that will forever etch itself into our memories.

California Zephyr in Winter Park

With winter’s chill fading into the rearview mirror, our thirst for adventure led us to iconic rail journeys that showcased America’s vast and diverse landscapes. We rode Amtrak’s famous California Zephyr from Chicago’s towering skyline all the way to the sun-drenched streets of San Francisco, reveling in vistas of alpine peaks, rustic deserts, and the shimmering Pacific. The City by the Bay seduced us with its rolling fog, zigzagging streets, and fresh seafood pulled straight from the sparkling bay. From wandering the trails at Muir Woods to sipping wines amid the rolling vineyards of Napa and Sonoma, these were moments that defined the very essence of seeing America.

Venice Grand Canal

Yet our wanderlust yearned for grander horizons in 2024, and we heeded the call of Italy’s fabled cobblestone alleys and ancient ruins. Our Italian odyssey kicked off amid the elegant grandeur of Paris before whisking us away to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily. Catania’s baroque splendor gave way to the hustle and bustle of Naples, where we learned the secrets of perfect Neapolitan pizza from seasoned masters. We wandered the eerily preserved streets of Pompeii, froze in awe before the Renaissance masterworks of Florence, savored the fabled cuisine of Bologna, and lost ourselves in the romantic canals and piazzas of timeless Venice.

Pasta in a market in Bolgona

Each stop was a delicious assault on the senses – the aroma of simmering ragu, the chime of echoing church bells, and laughter and clinking glasses spilling from sidewalk cafes at every turn. From savoring wine windows in Florence to getting gloriously lost amid the tangled alleyways of Naples’ Spanish Quarter, we drank deeply from la dolce vita (the sweet life), allowing Italy’s intoxicating zest for living to leave us deliciously drunk on wanderlust.

Mackinac Island in Fall

As summer faded into fall, we found ourselves pulled back to the comforting embrace of home soil and familiar trails. We revisited cherished gems like the quaint lakeside towns of Northern Michigan, where we paddled the serene waters of Pretty Lakes and watched the sunset blaze over the iconic Mackinac Bridge. Yet we also pushed our boundaries, exploring new pockets of our backyard like the sprawling sand dunes along Silver Lake and the crumbling remains of Detroit’s abandoned zoo on Belle Isle.

Each jaunt was a reminder that the most epic adventures are often waiting just beyond our doorstep. As we finally settled in to map out our travels for the coming year, one thing was certain – our thirst for exploration was only growing fiercer.

Pretty Lakes Quiet Area

With 2025 stretched out before us, we can’t help but buzz with excitement for the epic adventures lying in wait. We have our sights set on the pristine waters and untamed wilderness of Ontario, the vibrant streets of Mexico City, and perhaps even a return to Europe’s hallowed cobblestones. One thing’s for sure – our paddles are ready, our packs are prepped, and our wanderlust is insatiable.

So, fellow explorers, stay tuned as we embark on new frontiers and revel in the wandering soul of our #goseedoexplore ethos. The path is never-ending, and the greatest adventures are yet to come! What travel dreams will you chase in 2025?

Muir Woods National Monument

Conquer Flight Delays Like a Pro Traveler

By Ashleigh

On December 23, 2024

In Travel, Travel Tips

Handle Flight Delays

Airports can be a stressful maze of chaos, especially when flight delays and cancellations throw a wrench into your travel plans. But with the right mindset and tactics, you can navigate these hurdles like a seasoned jet-setter. Recently, we put some expert tips to the test and emerged victorious against the travel gods. Let us share our secrets so you too can soar above travel turbulence.

Tips to get where you're going

At the Travel & Adventure Show, renowned travel expert Samantha Brown imparted some sage advice for smoother journeys:

Fly major airlines over budget carriers when possible.
Book the earliest flights to reduce cancellation risks.
Avoid layovers which can complicate things.
Arrive at the airport very early – you can never be too early!

We heeded tips 1 and 4 by booking an early morning flight on American Airlines from Detroit to Greenville. Little did we know how valuable the other tips would prove to be.

This trip to Greenville was full of flight issues. Mechanical issues in Charlotte delayed the arrival of our Detroit-bound plane. But because we arrived at the airport very early per Samantha’s advice, we snagged seats on an earlier departing flight – avoiding a missed connection in Charlotte. American’s staff communicated well and made rebooking a breeze through their app and at the desk. Kudos to them for stellar service!

Flight Delays

On the return, a tarmac delay in Greenville nearly made us miss our connection to Detroit. As we inched towards the gate, visions of sprinting through the Charlotte airport danced in our heads.

But we didn’t panic. We employed Samantha’s savviest tactic – knowing the later flight options out of that airport. As soon as we departed the plane, one of us immediately called American’s priority line and swapped us to the next Detroit flight – skipping the inevitable rebooking queue.

By the time we collected our bags, the boarding door for our original flight was likely closed. Thanks to quick thinking and being knowledgeable travelers, we avoided a nightmare scenario.

Be Prepared

Tips for Conquering Delays:

Fly early and skip layovers when possible to reduce chances of delays/cancellations
Research later flight options from the airport to your destination
Have that flight info and your confirmation details handy
Call the airline as soon as a delay is announced to get rebooked ahead of the pack
Consider trip insurance or a travel rewards credit card for added protection

With some prep work and creative thinking, you can rise above the stress of flight disruptions. Channel your inner Samantha Brown, arrive at the airport early, and be ready to adapt when plans go awry. An adventurous spirit and calm mindset will serve you well.

Greenville, South Carolina: A Foodie Haven

By Ashleigh

On December 16, 2024

In Travel

Falls Park on the Reedy

If you’re a foodie searching for your next culinary adventure, look no further than Greenville, South Carolina. This unassuming city in the Western Carolinas is a true sleeper hit, boasting an insane number of incredible restaurants tucked into a compact, charming downtown area. From mouthwatering low-country cuisine to creative fusions and decadent desserts, Greenville’s food scene will awaken your taste buds in the most delightful way.

As soon as you arrive in downtown Greenville, you’ll be struck by the whimsical contrast of its small-town vibe and impressive culinary offerings. Quaint side streets lined with historic buildings open up to reveal local gems like Sassafras, the top restaurant on TripAdvisor, serving up sublime takes on Southern staples like shrimp and grits. For a taste of global flavors, don’t miss Soby’s, a dimly-lit den dishing out delectable dim sum.

Animal Statue in Greenville

One of the highlights is undoubtedly Falls Park on the Reedy (top), a lush oasis cutting right through the heart of downtown. Follow the trails along the river, pause to admire the dramatic Liberty Bridge, and refuel at Between the Trees, an upscale eatery with a lovely patio overlooking the falls. For a more laid-back vibe, grab a crepe from the funky Tandem Creperie, tucked away in nearby Traveler’s Rest.

What makes Greenville’s dining scene so incredible is the sheer variety packed into just a few walkable blocks. From James Beard-nominated chefs to unassuming holes-in-the-wall, there’s an authentic taste of almost any cuisine you can imagine. The city embraces its flourishing restaurant culture with annual events like Fall for Greenville, a massive food and music festival.

Even the coffee scene is a cut above, with lauded roasters like Methodical Coffee creating brews worth traveling for. Don’t sleep on the inventive creations either, like the sublime orange-almond-cardamom latte. With cozy underground cafes and artistic coffee shops aplenty, fueling up is an experience in itself.

Greenville West End

While the food alone is worth the trip, Greenville has even more to offer adventurous souls. The compact downtown seamlessly blends a thriving arts scene, from theaters hosting Broadway shows to funky art galleries doubling as coffee shops. Outdoor enthusiasts can use the city as a launching pad for hiking in nearby mountain ranges and state parks like Caesars Head.

Conveniently located halfway between Atlanta and Charlotte, Greenville makes for an easily accessible getaway from several major airports. Whether you’re craving creative cuisine, a quirky arts scene, or a launchpad for outdoor adventures, this underrated Southern town deserves a spot at the very top of your travel bucket list.

Urban Paddling: Kayaking Belle Isle in Detroit

By Ashleigh

On December 9, 2024

In Michigan, Project: State Parks

Paddling Belle Isle

Imagine gliding through calm waters, paddle in hand, as the iconic Detroit skyline rises majestically before you. This is the surreal experience awaited at Belle Isle Park, an urban oasis that offers a unique kayaking adventure right in the heart of the Motor City. If you’re craving an escape from the concrete jungle without venturing too far, Belle Isle is calling your name.

Nestled in the Detroit River between Michigan and Ontario, Belle Isle is a 982-acre island park that provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable paddle. The 6.5-mile Blue Heron Lagoon Trail encircles the interior of the island, winding through shallow canals and marsh areas teeming with wildlife. As you dip your paddle into the placid waters, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature’s peaceful embrace, a stark contrast to the urban bustle just across the river.

Graffiti Bridge - Belle Isle

What makes kayaking Belle Isle so extraordinary is the juxtaposition of natural serenity and metropolitan splendor. One moment, you’re admiring a great blue heron standing motionless in the shallows, and the next, you’re passing beneath looming bridges with the iconic Renaissance Center towering overhead. This seamless blending of urban and natural landscapes is a photographer’s dream, offering endless opportunities to capture stunning shots of city meets wilderness.

While summer is undoubtedly the prime season for kayaking Belle Isle, the park’s appeal extends to the other three seasons as well. In spring, the island bursts into a kaleidoscope of blooms, with vibrant flowers lining the waterways. Fall brings a breathtaking display of foliage, painting the park in warm hues of red, orange, and gold. Even winter offers its own magic, with the possibility of paddling alongside chunks of ice drifting lazily in the river.

Scott Fountain - Belle Isle

Beyond the kayaking trails, Belle Isle Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with abundant opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and more. After your paddle, explore the park’s numerous attractions, including the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and the James Scott Memorial Fountain (above). Or, simply find a scenic spot to enjoy a picnic while basking in the park’s natural splendor.

Belle Isle Bell Tower Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a novice seeking a new adventure, Belle Isle Park promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the opportunity to escape the urban grind and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this hidden gem, all without leaving the city limits. Pack your sense of wonder and get ready to paddle into an urban oasis like no other. Kayak rentals are available from Simple Adventures.

Kayaking Pretty Lakes Quiet Area

By Ashleigh

On December 2, 2024

In Michigan

As avid explorers, we’re always on the hunt for off-the-beaten-path adventures that ignite our sense of wonder. This past Labor Day weekend, we stumbled upon a true hidden gem – the Pretty Lakes Quiet Area near Newberry, Michigan. Get ready to be inspired to pack your kayak and venture into this serene aquatic trail system.

Tucked away in the Upper Peninsula, the Pretty Lakes Quiet Area offers a unique paddling experience. Imagine gliding across a series of small, interconnected lakes, portaging between them with just a short carry of 100 meters or less. With each new water body, a fresh scene unfolds, from sun-dappled shores to towering pines mirrored in the glassy surface.

As we paddled our inflatable Sea Eagle tandem kayak, a profound sense of solitude washed over us. Despite it being a holiday weekend after venturing past the first lake near the parking area, we had these tranquil waters entirely to ourselves. The bustle of daily life faded away, replaced by the rhythmic dipping of our paddles and the call of birds overhead.

For those who prefer to explore on foot, the Pretty Lakes Pathway promises an equally rewarding adventure. This flat, easy hiking trail winds around many of the lakes, offering stunning vistas at every turn. Whether you choose to hike the entire loop or just a portion, you’ll be treated to a front-row seat to nature’s grandeur.

A night under the stars is also an option, thanks to the area’s rustic campground. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of waves against the shoreline and the first rays of sunrise filtering through the trees. It’s a true escape from the hustle of modern life.

Located about an hour and a half from Sault Ste. Marie, the Pretty Lakes Quiet Area is an accessible yet well-kept secret. As you wind your way through the Upper Peninsula’s pristine forests and over its rolling hills, you’ll be filled with a growing sense of adventure and anticipation.

We can’t recommend this paddling and hiking paradise enough. Pack your spirit of exploration, your kayak or hiking boots, and get ready to experience the Pretty Lakes Quiet Area for yourself. This hidden gem is truly one of Michigan’s crown jewels, just waiting to be discovered by those with a thirst for natural beauty and a craving for serenity.

JOMO: The 2025 Trend in Travel

By Ashleigh

On November 25, 2024

In Travel

JOMO: The 2025 Trend in Travel

If the thought of battling crowds at famous attractions fills you with dread, you’re not alone. According to travel experts, 2025 is shaping up to be the year of “slow travel” – favoring lesser-known locales over bucket-list icons. After years of missing out on big trips, many travelers went all-in on major destinations in 2022 and 2023. But the trend for 2025 is all about discovering hidden gems off the beaten path.

Remember FOMO – the fear of missing out that fueled our desire to see the world’s most famous sights? Well, say hello to JOMO – the joy of missing out. Savvy travelers are embracing the thrill of exploring overlooked places that most tourists pass by. Why battle the masses at the Trevi Fountain when you could wander the medieval alleyways of Reims, France? According to data from Expedia, this little-known gem tops the list of rising flight searches for 2025.

JOMO: The 2025 Trend in Travel

Overtourism has become a major issue, with popular destinations struggling under the weight of too many visitors. The solution? Discover second cities and smaller destinations that offer a more authentic taste of local life. Booking.com data reveals lodging hot spots like Trømso, Norway, the Brazilian beach town of João Pessoa, and the Spanish seaside village of Villajoyosa.

Even bucket-list countries like Italy are seeing a shift, with travelers venturing beyond Rome, Florence, and Venice. The port town of Trieste, for example, is surging in popularity as visitors use it as a base to explore miles of hiking trails, medieval hill towns, and the sparkling Adriatic coast.

JOMO: The 2025 Trend in Travel

Of course, part of the allure of these underrated destinations is the sense of pioneering adventure. After all, how many of your friends can rattle off facts about Canmore, Canada or Fukuoka, Japan? These places top Expedia’s list of emerging travel hotspots, promising a departure from the well-trodden tourist trail.

Some might call it the joy of missing out. We call it the thrill of discovery. Why follow the herd to overpriced, overcrowded attractions when you could blaze your own trail to the hidden wonders of the world? Embrace the spirit of the slow travel movement and uncover the magic of the road less traveled in 2025.

Thanks for stopping by! To read more about the up-and-coming destinations in 2025, read the reports from Expedia and Booking.com. Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.

How to Plan the Perfect Adventure

By Ashleigh

On November 18, 2024

In Travel, Travel Tips

As travel bloggers, we know the thrill of exploring new destinations and the challenge of stretching every dollar to fuel our wanderlust. But before the adventure begins, there’s an art to crafting the perfect trip – a delicate dance between dreams, deals, and serendipity. So grab your compass and get ready to master the fine art of trip planning!

When those open-ended dates stare back at you with infinite possibilities, it can feel both exhilarating and overwhelming. Where to even begin? This is where the real journey starts – with a mindset of flexibility. Resist the urge to lock yourself into just one dream destination. Instead, keep an open list of contenders, allowing you to pounce on the best deals and unique opportunities that arise.

As seasoned globetrotters, we have a running list of places calling our names, stored digitally but also etched into our minds’ eye. This allows us to compare prices across multiple locations to maximize every hard-earned dollar. Maybe it’s an unexpected flight deal to Puerto Rico over the holidays or a last-minute cruise up the California coast. By staying open, the world is quite literally your oyster.

With your contenders in place, it’s time to start searching for flights and accommodations to gauge potential costs. We hunt for airfare first since those prices are the most volatile and fleeting. The moment we spot an airfare deal that sparks joy, we pounce before it disappears into the ether.

Lodging is our next consideration as these costs can make or break a trip’s overall value. We aim for convenience, comfort and a hotel room with a view beyond the parking lot. But we’re not afraid to keep it simple – luxury digs are lovely, but we’d rather save our splurges for experiences.

With airfare and lodging estimates in hand, we can weigh the overall value of each potential itinerary based on timing, costs and any special events or festivals. This calculation ensures we’re getting the best possible adventure for our investment.

Even as the pieces start locking into place through non-refundable bookings, we fight the urge to become inflexible. Maybe it’s rebooking a refundable hotel at a non-refundable rate as our dates solidify to save money. Maybe it’s exploring travel insurance to protect our investment in case life happens.

The key is keeping as many doors open as possible for as long as possible. That’s how you stumble upon a neighborhood gem for dinner instead of being locked into a subpar reservation. It’s how the path reveals itself to you, rather than you trying to force it from the start.

At the end of the day, planning the perfect adventure is as much an art as the adventure itself. By mastering the delicate balance of dreams and deals, preparation and spontaneity, you’re crafting an experience uniquely yours from the very first moment. And that’s really what exploring is all about, isn’t it?

Fall on Mackinac Island

By Ashleigh

On November 11, 2024

In Michigan

Fort Mackinac in Fall

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As the vibrant colors of autumn paint the landscape, there’s no better place to immerse yourself in the crisp, cozy magic of the season than Mackinac Island. This cherished Michigan gem casts its spell over visitors with horse-drawn carriages, fudge shops galore, and a car-free oasis that seems frozen in time. But as we discovered on a recent getaway, Mackinac has some deliciously unexpected treats in store too.

Room at the Inn on Mackinac It started with an irresistible deal – buy one, get one free ferry tickets to whisk us away to the island. With the clock ticking on their expiration date, we pounced on a cozy boutique hotel booking that promised a front-row seat to Mackinac’s annual transition into its quieter, off-season self. The Inn on Mackinac (left) was the perfect place to stay in walking distance to the hubub of downtown. It has a lovely balcony to watch the sunset over the water as bicyclists pass by on the street below.

Of course, no visit to this Lake Huron paradise would be complete without indulging in the local flavors. We kicked things off at the Gatehouse, a Grand Hotel restaurant where the aromas alone had been beckoning us for years. Lounging on the patio with jalapeno-laced nachos and pierogis, we soaked up the last of the afternoon sun before hopping on our rented bicycles for a leisurely loop around the island.

Arch Rock in Fall

With happy hour in mind, we made our way to Doud’s Market, the oldest family-owned grocer in the U.S. A bottle of local Chateau Grand Traverse wine in hand, we retreated to our balcony for a front-row seat to Mackinac’s emerging evening tranquility. For dinner, it was the cozy confines of Mary’s Bistro & Drafthouse, a gem serving up homey American fare with a waterfront view that offers online reservations.

But it was the island’s unlikely Jamaican eatery that stole the show. After spying a tantalizing mention of Kingston Kitchen in an Eater article, we made a beeline for this unassuming, chef-driven spot located steps off of Main Stree. From the first whiff of jerk pork to the crisp sip of Red Stripe beer, we were transported back to the warmth and vibrance of our Caribbean honeymoon. For a taste of the unexpected in the heart of northern Michigan, this humble Jamaican outpost was a delicious reminder that the best travel adventures often come from embracing the element of surprise.

Mackinac at Night

As the autumn chill gave way to starry nights, we wandered the hushed streets in a state of contented bliss. Mackinac may be renowned as a summer getaway, but those in the know understand that fall is when the island’s magic is most palpable. The weather was perfect for riding bikes around the island! With stunning scenery, cozy accommodations, and hidden culinary gems waiting to be uncovered, this one-of-a-kind destination is the perfect spot to sip the last rays of summer while cozying up to autumn’s irresistible charms.