If visiting the Galapagos, Isabela is an island to definitely explore. It’s the youngest and largest island in the Galapagos.  Also, Isabela has the most volcanoes and tortoises of any Galapagos Island. On my 9-day Galapagos trip, I stayed in Puerto Villamil for 3 days of tours with Intrepid Travel Group. I enjoyed a hike to the caldera of a volcano, snorkeling, kayaking and seeing wildlife galore. So, read on to discover more about my Isabela Galapagos itinerary and highlights. Isabela Island became formed by the merger of 6 shield volcanoes, with all being active except one.  We hi ..read more

Antigua is a one-of-a-kind destination with so much to explore in nature and culture.  It’s Spanish colonial, baroque-style architecture contrasts with preserved ruins from the earthquakes in the 18th century.  The amazing town is surrounded by volcanoes and fertile plantations of coffee, cacao and avocados.  Between the old and the new, Antiqua does not disappoint.  In February 2024, I spent a week exploring most of these top 20 Antigua Guatemala attractions.  So, read on to discover what to see and do here and why you should visit.   About Antigua, Guatemal ..read more

One of the most epic journeys of my life was circumnavigating Africa.  In 2023, I enjoyed most the ports in a 73-day cruise around Africa with Holland America.  As an Acupuncturist in their spa, I spent my days off exploring the coastline of Africa.  Overall, I wrote 18 blogs for each one of the countries I explored.  Moreover, in this article, I include all the links for the individual blogs for each port visited on the Grand Africa Cruise itinerary.    So, read on to discover what it’s like to circumnavigate Africa. My Grand Africa Cruise Itinerary October ..read more

Welcome to one of the happiest places on Earth. Efate Vanuatu travel sites reveal a pristine Pacific Island paradise.  With beautiful blue lagoons, coral beaches, shipwreck dives, lush rainforests, waterfalls and a Kava Culture, Vanuatu is a one-of-kind destination.    So, read on to learn why the people of Vanuatu have been recognized as some of the happiest people on Earth.  Eton BeachBackground of Vanuatu Located in the South Pacific Ocean, the Republic of Vanuatu spreads out over 80 islands.  It’s a wonderful destination for snorkeling and scuba diving among ..read more

Taormina is an absolute dream.  Surrounded by dramatic vistas and seascapes, this hillside old town is perfect for a walking tour.  Also, it has pedestrianized streets, with Gothic churches, charming piazzas, boutiques and cafes.  Overall, I loved my day here and enjoy sharing Taormina Sicily highlights.  Firstly, I arrived by bus from the cruise terminal in Messina.  Taormina is about 50 km south of Messina.    “Were a man to spend only one day in Sicily and ask, “What must one see?” I would answer him without hesitation, “Taormina.” It is only a lands ..read more

As the terminus to the Trans-Siberian Railway and largest Russian port on the Pacific Ocean, Vladivostok is a popular destination. A historic Vladivostok walking tour is the best way to explore the city. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I awaken surprised to what I see from the deck. The bright sun is sparkling upon the dramatic Golden Horn Bay. Then, I quickly notice the iconic Trans-Siberian Railway Station, just outside our ship’s terminal. With minimal preparation, I set off solo on foot to make the most of my 1 day in Vladivostok. Eastern Terminus- Trans-Siberian RailwayHistory of Vladivostok ..read more

Proper sunscreen application is a holistic topic not only for you, but also our planet. The best individual sunscreens are also “Reef Safe.” Skin is your largest organ, where signs of premature aging surface and chemicals absorb into the bloodstream.  So, dive in and read about these 7 sunscreen health tips for both you and the planet. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef – Aerial View from Helicopter7 Important Sunscreen Health Tips Mineral Sunscreen with Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide These sunscreens are natural and form a physical barrier that reflects the sunlight away from your ski ..read more

Victoria is the gateway to a paradise of the pristine Seychelles Islands.  As the capital city, it holds a special charm filled with culture and natural beauty.  It’s well worth giving this hub a day to explore.  I thoroughly enjoyed my day here and love sharing travel tips.  So, read on to discover 10 Top Victoria Seychelles attractions for planning or virtual travel.  About Victoria, Seychelles Seychelles is an archipelago, consisting of 115 islands about 1,500 km east of mainland Africa.  It is the smallest country in Africa, yet has the highest per capita GDP ..read more

This southernmost region of Patagonia is also known as the “Gateway to Antarctica.” It is a spectacular byway where visitors can connect with diverse nature and wildlife. As an Acupuncturist-at -Sea, I visited this unique port-of-call and enjoyed especially seeing the nearby Magellan Penguins on Otway Sound.  So, read on to learn about overall Punta Arenas Chile attractions and its adorable penguins. Punta Arenas Background Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese Explorer, first sailed and discovered the Strait of Magellan and the region in 1519.  Thus, both the Strait and the famous ..read more

Mount Rainier is one of the most awe-inspiring mountains that I have ever seen.  Being a Seattleite, I’ve mused at it thousands of times from a distance.  But, there is nothing like being right there in the shadows of this active volcano rising to 14, 411 feet.  Mount Rainier National Park comprises 369 square miles of natural beauty.  It’s essential to plan to get the most out of your time here.  So, here’s the 10 best Mt Rainier highlights to navigate this national park.  “Of all the fire mountains which like beacons, once blazed along the Pacific coast, Mount ..read more