After Paris, I headed solo to Lyon for a week. Secret passageways, extraordinary food, Beaujolais wine country, and a circus in a Roman amphitheater. Here’s what Lyon is really like.
I hadn’t been back to Paris in 25 years. The city has changed — nearly 50 million visitors a year will do that — but it is still extraordinary. Here’s what a week with my daughter looked like, from Versailles to a concert at Sainte-Chapelle that was a once in a lifetime experience.
Paris was always on the itinerary. But first — Lille and Rouen, two French cities I knew almost nothing about and left completely won over. Plus a HomeExchange apartment, a Joan of Arc museum, and a Dieppe train we nearly didn’t make.
This trip was a long time coming — a graduation celebration that got delayed by grief and finally arrived. Three rainy days in London delivered a royal surprise, West End magic, and the strange experience of walking over some of the most famous people who ever lived.
This year brought unforgettable celebrations, breathtaking nature, and deep reflection—from Día de Muertos in Mexico and a baby sea turtle release to hiking storybook trails in Portugal and settling into life in Lake Chapala. A year of joy, loss, connection, and choosing home.
Our quick trip to Lisbon was full of vintage markets, stunning hilltop views, delicious food, and live music. From Mercado de Santa Clara to the Miradouros and local restaurants, Lisbon completely captured our hearts!
Our housesitting adventure in Central Portugal brought misty mountain views, spirited pups, and plenty of rainy-day challenges. Between storms, we explored scenic trails, historic convents, and tranquil riverside spots—making for a memorable week in the countryside!
On our day trip to Coimbra, we wandered through the stunning University Palace and felt like we’d stepped back in time. From the Royal Palace with its regal history to the baroque beauty of the Royal Chapel of St. Michael, every corner was full of stories. But the real showstopper? The Joanine Library. Towering shelves, gold details, and even a little colony of bats keeping the ancient books safe—it was like walking into a storybook (or a Harry Potter set!). If you’re in Coimbra, this tour is an absolute must.