Having grown up in a primarily Irish-Catholic community, nearly everyone I knew had some tie to Ireland. My mom often shared stories about my grandfather—her father—who came to Ellis Island as a ten-year-old boy. He and the rest of his family traded the familiarity of their home in Ireland for the unknown promise of a new life. Because of him, I later secured Irish citizenship—something I cherish for the passport and the tangible link it gives me to my roots.

Despite never visiting Ireland until my semester studying abroad in London, as soon as I landed at Dublin’s airport, I felt a sense of familiarity—almost as if I had been there all along. Every subsequent trip to Ireland has been just as magical.

I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to walk, bike, and hike my way through St. Patrick’s Way last month. Our journey began in Armagh, where St. Patrick established his main church, and two cathedrals in his name stand today. Faced with hostility from local chieftains and Druids, along with the constant threat of attack or even death, his mission was anything but easy.

The origin story behind St. Patrick’s Way

Partially inspired by the Camino de Santiago in Spain, St. Patrick’s Way is a pilgrimage route through Northern Ireland that traces the path St. Patrick—Ireland’s patron saint—took when he first brought Christianity to the country. St. Patrick’s Way spans approximately 85 miles, beginning in Armagh and ending in Downpatrick, where St. Patrick is said to be buried.

As much as I thought I knew about St. Patrick’s life, there were many stories I hadn’t heard—particularly about his early years before returning to Ireland to spread Christianity. While historians can’t confirm where St. Patrick was born and raised, the consensus is that it was somewhere in Britain—possibly Scotland—in the late fourth century.

What they do know, however, is that he was captured by Irish raiders as a teenager and taken to Ireland as an enslaved person. After about six years, he escaped and returned to Britain, only to make the difficult decision to return to Ireland many years later. When you reach Downpatrick near the trail’s end, the St. Patrick Centre offers a great look at his early life and is well worth checking out.

Highlights from the trail 

My week in Northern Ireland was packed with stunning views and memorable stops, so this list is not exhaustive.

Visiting Navan Centre and Fort and Armagh

For most travelers, the journey begins at the Navan Centre and Fort. Also known as Emain Macha, Navan Fort dates back around 2,000 years to the Iron Age. Believed to have been the ancient seat of the kings of Ulster, it was a significant gathering place. St. Patrick recognized the fort’s significance and used it to reach as many people as possible and teach them about the Christian faith.

This is a great time to mention the St. Patrick’s Way Passport, which you can pick up at the Navan Centre and Fort—the first of ten locations where you can collect stamps along the route. As someone who misses the days when my actual passport got stamped, I found it genuinely exciting every time I added a new one.

Then, it was off to Armagh, where our group took a walking tour of the city and visited the city’s two St. Patrick’s Cathedrals—one belonging to the Church of Ireland and the other to the Roman Catholic Church. One of our guides joked that wedding guests sometimes mistakenly arrive at the wrong cathedral. Fortunately, the two cathedrals are practically across the street from each other and are hard to miss.

When in Armagh, definitely try to book a guided tour with Donna Fox. A local expert, Donna has been giving tours of Armagh and beyond since the 1990s. Along with her deep knowledge of the area and St. Patrick’s Way, she’s incredibly friendly and welcoming.

Cycling from Scarva to Newry

One of my favorite stretches of St. Patrick’s Way was the journey from Scarva to Newry, which we tackled on e-bikes. The route was stunning, and we lucked out with sunny weather for most of the week. Since the path runs parallel to the canal, it’s nearly impossible to get lost—leaving you free to soak in the scenery as it rushes past. 

Saint Patrick spent time in Glen Righe, also known as Clanrye, during his mission in Ireland. As a symbol of his faith, he planted a yew tree above the Clanrye River, which runs through present-day Newry. This legacy lives on in Newry’s coat of arms, which depicts Saint Patrick standing between two yew trees.

A huge thanks to the team at Bike Mourne, who organized everything seamlessly and knew exactly where to stop so we could collect four passport stamps along the way. 

Watching  the sunrise in Newcastle

A destination in its own right, Newcastle quickly became one of my favorite stops along St. Patrick’s Way. We stayed at the charming Avoca Hotel on the beach, and the views of the sunset–and sunrise the following morning–were unmatched. Even though it was still somewhat chilly in March, I loved warming up at the nearby pubs, Guinness, and some great live music. 

As jam-packed as the previous day had been, there was no way I would miss the sunrise the next morning. Sure, I could’ve watched it from my room on the hotel’s first floor, but there was something special about stepping outside, feeling the crisp morning air on my face, and watching the Mourne Mountains loom majestically in the distance.

Canoeing along the River Quoile

After walking towards the Camino Canoe point–a trek of about three miles on foot–we met our canoe instructor, John, at Janes Shore. We were again blessed with clear, sunny skies and a warm breeze as we paddled our way to the historic Inch Abbey.

Located near Downpatrick in County Down, Inch Abbey was once a thriving Cistercian monastery founded in 1180. Unfortunately, like many other monasteries, it was abandoned in the 16th century during the Dissolution of the Monasteries under Henry VIII, much like the famous Tintern Abbey in Wales.

Ready to follow in St. Patrick’s footsteps? If you’re flying over from the U.S., you’ll begin your journey in Dublin. Alternatively, you can fly into Belfast like I did and explore Northern Ireland’s capital city before heading to Armagh to begin St. Patrick’s Way.

La entrada The Best Stops from My Journey on St. Patrick’s Way se publicó primero en Bohemian Trails.

I’ve also been placing more value in building my community, both in Europe and back home in the States. It’s probably something that just comes with age, but I’m embracing the ‘soft’ life rather than operating in hustle mode. It’s taken time but I’m finally at a place where I feel so grounded in who I am and who I want to surround myself with.

All this is to say that when the opportunity to tour Sicily with WalkingWomen popped into my inbox, it just felt ‘right.’ It sounded like (and was) a tour that aligned with my values: culture, community, curiosity, and a chance to grow.

WalkingWomen is a women-owned (and since 2021, sister-owned) travel company that curates unique experiences for women around the world. As its name suggests, these tours are geared toward women and they always center around nature walks. All women are welcomed on their tours, regardless of how they identify, their age, and their athletic abilities. In fact, they have a ‘Goat’ system to help guide travelers on how extensive (or not) the hikes will be. Their Sicily tour was a ‘Goat 1’ (the easiest level), and that was just fine for me.

Our home for the week

No matter how many times I remember that Europe is now my home, I will never get over the magic that is Italy. Between classics like “Eat, Pray, Love” and “Under the Tuscan Sun,” I always feel like I’m the star of my own movie here.

Our tour began in Catania, an old port city on Sicily’s east coast and perhaps best known for being the gateway to Mt. Etna. From there, we were whisked away to a charming, traditional Sicilian villa.

Unlike other group trips I’ve joined, upon arriving at the villa we had time to unpack, relax, and soak up the last bit of sunshine for the day. After speaking with Ginny and Sara–owners of WalkingWomen–I learned that for all of their tours, they make sure to include enough free time so participants can really rest, relax, and restore before the next day’s activities.

My room was located outside of the main house and I really loved the extra privacy. Every morning, I’d wake up, head to the stocked kitchen for a cup of coffee, and then sit by the pool with my journal. Hearing nothing but the sounds of nature was nothing short of bliss.

Exploring Scicli and the surrounding area

After a delicious dinner at the villa the first night, our next day included a guided tour of Scicli, the closest city to our villa and only about a ten-minute drive away. As the sun was setting, we walked through Scicli’s cobbled streets, passed some of the most important buildings and met some friendly locals along the way.

We were lucky enough to have Emilia Strazzanti of Strazzanti Experiences accompany us for the entire trip. Emilia has worked with top chefs and Michelin-starred restaurants in London, Paris and Milan. A few years ago, she decided to reconnect with her roots and moved to Sicily full-time. Aside from being an amazing chef (I’m still dreaming about the pasta she cooked for us on night one), she has a wealth of knowledge about all things Sicily.

Per Emilia’s suggestion, our group walked the short distance from Scicli’s main square (Piazza Italia) to the ancient church of Saint Matthew (San Matteo). From the bottom, the trek looked incredibly steep but in reality, it took 15-minutes to reach the top and only with minimal inclines. Seeing all of Scicli as the sun set was truly breathtaking and a major highlight of the trip for me.

Another major highlight that came later in the week (this guide is not in chronological order), was an impromptu walk to Sampieri beach. Instead of driving, a few members of our group decided to take a leisurely stroll to the beach.

Along the way we passed several homes and villas with spacious grounds and got to see lots of foliage. When we reached the water, we first took in the view from a vantage point before making our way to the beach itself.

After taking a dip in the sea–much deserved after the 1.5 hour journey–we wandered into the little town until we found a cute beach bar overlooking the water. Beer in hand, we chatted about life, love, and everything in between.

Hitting the trails

As for the guided walks included in the WalkingWomen itinerary, there were two and both were absolutely incredible.

Our first adventure took us through Cava Misericordia until we reached the town of Ragusa (pictured below). Unlike most of the hikes I’ve been on in my life, we actually started at the top and worked our way down and through. The first twenty minutes had me feeling like a literal goat as I descended down steep rocks one at a time.

From there, things leveled out for the most part and it allowed us to walk at a comfortable pace, learn about the fauna and foliage, and enjoy a packed lunch by a trickling creek. Even though I grew up thousands of miles away in Virginia, a lot of the vegetation reminded me of a little patch of forest located behind my house. I felt so sentimental in the best of ways and it brought me back to the carefree whimsy of my youth.

The second hike was in Cava d’Ispica, a nature reserve and archaeological site located between Modica and Ispica. It’s hard to compare the two hikes because they felt so different, which is exactly what one can hope for on a walking trip.

I took this photo from one of the higher viewpoints and inside a series of dwellings built into the caves. People known as ‘troglodytes’ settled in the caves about 4,000 years ago and while the caves are no longer inhabitable, you can easily imagine how these dwellings served as shelter from the elements.

Just when we thought our hike was coming to an end, WalkingWomen surprised us with a gourmet picnic and wine tasting. This was the last thing I was expecting and wow, it was wonderful. We tasted three different local wines from the region and nibbled on cheese, meats, breaded snacks and other delicious snacks.

Women-owned wineries

Now that we’ve covered the different hikes you can expect on the WalkingWomen tour, let’s talk about the wine!

As this was a WalkingWomen tour, I really appreciated that we got to visit female-owned wineries and businesses. For context, roughly 17% of wine makers around the world are women, and in Sicily, that percentage is even lower. To make it in this industry is no small feat, and I was glad that WalkingWomen was able to put these entrepreneurs front and center.

Our first wine visit was at Occhipinti, which is owned by Arianna Occhipinti. As a winemaker, Arianna is one of the most famous in Sicily, if not the world and her wines come from five different grapes: Frappato, Nero D’Avola, Albanello, and Zibibbo. After a tour of the vineyard and wine fermentation room, we settled in for a wine tasting paired with bread, fresh tomato, and other small bites.

Later in the week, we visited the vineyard of another female winemaker. Cantina Marilina is on the smaller side, and is family-run. They started with the Monovarietal line, which are wines that come from native grapes. From there, they expanded to create blends and later a line of Reserve wines.

I really enjoyed getting to meet Marilina (pictured below) and seeing first-hand how passionate she is about the entire wine-making process. Between meeting her mother during the tasting and eyeing a little tricycle parked just outside of the fermentation room, you really get a sense that this is a true, family-run business.

Living ‘La Dolce Vita’

One of my favorite experiences from this WalkingWoman tour was a cooking class with Emilia at her home in Scicli. While I am the first to admit I’m not the most domestic of people (I blame all my years in New York City) I will never turn down a pasta-making class, especially not one in Italy!

That said, compared to the other women in our group, I was definitely the one with the least experience in the kitchen. We all have insecurities and for me, my lack of culinary skills is one of them. Of course, in the end it didn’t matter because there was wine involved and everyone was busy forming their pasta noodles.

I have to give it to Emilia because she is an incredible teacher. I’ve been to cooking classes before, including a few in Bologna, and I was actually able to follow her every step. She was helpful and encouraging and I could really feel my confidence growing.

Check out the end result: Fresh semolina flour pasta with Sicilian ancient grains and served with a pistachio pesto and Sicilian prawns. Get the recipe here.

Another great moment–or should I say meal–was a decadent lunch at Baglio Occhipinti. As its name suggests, Baglio Occhipinti is owned by the Occhipinti family and a short drive from the winery. Ariana’s older sister is the chef at the restaurant here and we had the privilege of meeting her during our lunch in Baglio’s outdoor garden. Wine was flowing, the dishes kept coming and the conversation never stopped.

Interested in traveling with WalkingWomen? Take a look at their tours in 2024 and beyond. 

*This post is in collaboration with WalkingWomen. They graciously offered me a spot on their tour, while I paid for my own travel expenses. Opinions are my own. 

La entrada Exploring Sicily’s Food and Wine Scene with WalkingWomen se publicó primero en Bohemian Trails.

I always loved those trips to South Carolina and while a trip there isn’t in the cards for me right now, I’m sharing five of my favorite experiences below.

Planning a trip to Charleston and wondering where to stay? Liberty Place Charleston by Hilton Club is centrally located, possesses a regal beauty and is a great reflection of the city’s elegant southern charm. Choose from spacious and modern 1- or 2-bedroom suites ideally positioned to explore the nearby historic district’s cobblestone streets and colorful row houses. 

Get inspired on Rainbow Row

Let’s start with a walk along my favorite row: Rainbow Row. Named for the set of 13 colorful historic houses in Charleston that tout Georgian architecture, Rainbow Row will literally add color to any cloudy day. Rainbow Row will likely be included on any walking tour of Charleston, as it’s near the historic waterfront dates from 1748 to 1845.

My grandmother on my mom’s side grew up in Charleston and one of these homes was in our family for several generations. The house has since been sold to a young couple, but it’s nice to know that it was able to be enjoyed by so many family members over the years.

While nobody knows the exact reasoning for the brightly colored homes, some believe this was to capture the attention of drunk sailors who might have otherwise gotten lost on their way home.

Stroll along The Battery

I grew up in a military family—my father was a Colonel in the marines (reserves)—so visiting military landmarks was always part of any trip itinerary.

The Battery is a landmark defensive seawall and promenade in Charleston. It’s bordered by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers that meet to form the Charleston harbor and well, the view is just breathtaking. I loved strolling along the promenade on those hot summer days and getting a cool breeze from the lower shores.

There’s also a bit of family history now attached to this famous seawall. It’s not only where my father proposed to my mother so many years ago; it’s also where my brother-in-law proposed to my sister, as he wanted to follow the tradition.

Visit the the College of Charleston campus

For most of my high school years, I dreamed of attending the College of Charleston. Life is funny, though, and while I did get accepted during my senior year, by that point I no longer wanted to go to an out-of-state school. That said, it’s still one of the most beautiful college campuses I’ve seen, and I’ve seen quite a few.

During my family summers in Charleston, we’d always spend a few hours each day exploring the downtown streets. The campus is located right in the heart of historic downtown yet has such a private, secluded feel to it. Founded in 1770, it’s the oldest educational institution south of Virginia; it’s even deemed a National Historic Landmark.

Another reason I love the College of Charleston campus is because it was host to one of my favorite films in high school—O (for Othello), starring Julia Stiles and Josh Hartnett. Swoon.

Marvel at the Spanish Moss

While you’re enjoying the College of Charleston campus, take a breather under one of the trees covered in Spanish moss. It can get pretty hot in summertime, and you’ll learn to take advantage of the shade whenever possible. Of course, you can see Spanish moss in other parts of the state, as well as other southern cities like Savannah, Georgia.

It has quite the romantic sounding name but in fact, Spanish moss is not moss at all, nor is it Spanish. It’s Latin name is Tillandsia usneoides, which actually belongs to the pineapple family. In the past, it was called  Itla-okla (“tree hair”) by the Native Americans and Barbe Espagnol, (“Spanish Beard”) by the French and this is the name that eventually won out.

Tour Charleston by boat

One of my favorite ways to tour Charleston is by boat.  As a kid, we’d take the ferry ride to Fort Sumter for a few hours and then return in the evening. In addition to ferry boats that transfer you to and from, you can also opt for a historic boat that takes you to sites like the Ravenel Bridge. Alternatively, there are more luxurious offerings that include cocktails and a more ambient vibe.

A few other ways to tour Charleston

If you have a few extra days in Charleston, I recommend diving into the local art, food and cocktail scenes. Here are a few recommendations: 

*Sample the classic Mint Julep

This is something I couldn’t do as a child, but one thing I definitely plan to do on my next trip. A classic mint julep is made with mint leaves, a sprig for garnish, simple syrup, pellet ice and bourbon. It’s a popular drink in the south and especially in Charleston. It definitely has a kick to it, yet is such a great balance of sweet and sour. Getting thirsty just thinking of it!

*Experience a Charleston oyster roast

Yes, you read that right. I’m a huge oyster fan and I can’t imagine any low country meal better than a pile of hot oysters on my plate. For a point of reference, low country is a region extending from below Myrtle Beach in South Carolina to Amelia Island, Florida. Naturally oyster roaster is an art form in many Charleston dining establishments.

*Learn the facts…and the legends

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, ghost tours are a way to tour Charleston. Depending on which tour you book, prices usually start around $25 and last 90-minutes or so. You’ll likely stop by one of Charleston’s old graveyards and at night, so be prepared if you spook easily. Alternatively, if you’re less into supernatural legends, opt for a historic walking tour instead.

*This post is in collaboration with Hilton Grand Vacations. 

Hilton Grand Vacations knows that planning a trip takes lots of research and patience, and they have created a robust website to help. The website is a great resource that helps travelers learn how Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare works and plan unforgettable vacations. Read what real owners have to say about vacation ownership on the Hilton Grand Vacations blog.   

La entrada Memories from My Childhood Summers in Charleston—Plus 5 Sights to See se publicó primero en Bohemian Trails.

One of these brands is Hilton Grand Vacations. Unlike a traditional fixed–week timeshare program, HGV offers a flexible, points-based system that allows members to find a property or resort customized to their needs. 

Here are a few reasons why vacation ownership with Hilton Grand Vacations is exactly the travel solution you need.  

It is flexible and fits into your schedule. 

Sometimes, it is those last-minute, spontaneous trips that are the most memorable. They can even be life changing.  

With Hilton Grand Vacations, members have the power to customize their vacations to fit their distinctive travel style. So, whether you are an adventure traveler, a culture seeker, or a history buff, you can have exactly the trip you are envisioned.  

Flexibility has always been an important part of travel and even more so in a pandemic. Safety recommendations from local governments and the Centers for Disease Control change regularly and could alter your travel dates, if necessary, is a big benefit.  

Payment is easy and reward-based. 

As a member, you will start working in ClubPoints—Hilton Grand Vacations’ timeshare currency. Note, it is different from Hilton Honors Points.  

Every year of your membership (or every other year, depending on your purchase), you will receive a certain amount of ClubPoints to use on future trips. You can save unused points for an extra year for future trips, as well as borrow points from the following year to take your dream vacay now.  

Coined “ClubPoints,” members have full control over how many they want to purchase. This is all based on your travel style, how many nights you plan to travel each year (or every other year) and where you hope to go. A stay at some resorts requires more ClubPoints than others, and this is all based on the property’s location, season (off-season requires fewer points), accommodation type and membership privileges offered.  

Members may also receive Bonus Points at the time of purchase. These are valid for up to two years and can be used toward reservations for ClubPartner Perks (more on that later), reservations at Hilton Grand Vacations properties, Hilton hotels and more.  

It is safe and set up for extended stays. 

With so much going on in the world right now, safety is more important than ever. Hilton Grand Vacations’ amenities make it easy to practice social distancing and allow for longer, extended stays if needed. If you are a Member of Elite Status, it is common to have enough points to stay at a property for more than one week at a time.  

Hilton Grand Vacations properties have private kitchens and living rooms, making for a comfortable stay should you choose to extend your trip or practice social distancing upon first arriving at your destination.  

Another safety measure Hilton Grand Vacations has in place is its Enhanced Cared Guidelines with Hilton CleanStay, an initiative designed to provide a new standard for cleanliness and disinfection. The Hilton has implemented these guidelines on properties worldwide so that owners and guests receive an extra level of safety and cleanliness throughout their stay.  

Seeing the world feels within reach. 

For many travelers, planning a trip can be pretty darn exhausting. Sure, travel is a surefire way to get us out of our comfort zone, but there is nothing wrong with a little familiarity. In fact, feeling familiar with a foreign place is one of the best ways to settle into a new destination. Each Hilton Grand Vacations property offers a unique flair based on the property’s location yet feels familiar enough that we can hit the ground running.  

If you are looking to stay within the country for now, there are so many options—from California and Las Vegas to New York, South Carolina, and Florida. And do not forget Hawaii! No matter the destination, you can revel like a royal at The Bay Club at Waikoloa Beach Resort in Hawaii or try your hands at the slots in Hilton Grand Vacations at the Flamingo in Las Vegas.  

Going international? Great! Hilton Grand Vacations at Borgo alle Vigne is a true gem: a modern retreat in the heart of charming old-world Pisa? Then there’s Hilton Grand Vacations at Craigendarroch Suites located in the Scottish Highlands and HGV’s latest international vacation ownership offer, La Pacifica Los Cabos by Hilton Club in sunny Mexico.  

Adventure add-ons are necessary. 

The biggest benefit of timeshare with Hilton Grand Vacations is the ClubPartner Perks. It gives you the chance to really get your feet wet—both literally and figuratively. The program is extensive, ranging from boarding cruise ships, driving RVs, and living on luxury houseboats. You can also experience yacht charters, top-notch hotels, have VIP-level adventures and even ride motorcycles on the open road.  

Let us take their ClubPartner Perks Grand Adventures as an example. Every year, there are different lands and sea tours offered.

For example, in 2019 Hilton Grand Vacations profiled two epic excursions: exploring the Grand Canyon with Tauck and cruising the Galapagos Inner loop as part of an Elite event aboard Celebrity’s Flora. In 2021, you can take a similar cruise but sail the Outer Loop instead.  

Curious what a couple hundred ClubPoints gets you with ClubPartner Perks? Here is a few examples:  

• For motorcycle travel: The point value per $200 voucher is 1,800 and the point value for each additional $100 increment is 900. 
• For houseboat travel: The point value per $250 travel certificate is 2,500 and is valid for two years. 
• For guided journeys: The point value per $250 travel certificate is 2,125 and the point value for each $500 travel certificate is 4,250. 

You are set up for success. 

Hilton Grand Vacations knows that planning a trip takes lots of research and patience, and they have created a robust website to help. The Club Member website is a great resource that helps Owner’s learn how Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare works and plan unforgettable vacations. And, if you are not a member yet, read what real owners have to say about vacation ownership on the Hilton Grand Vacations blog.  

La entrada Here’s Why Vacation Ownership With Hilton Grand Vacations is the Travel Solution You Need se publicó primero en Bohemian Trails.

Today, I’m writing about Kerala, India. It’s a destination I’ve not been to myself but would like to. Many of my travel writer and blogger friends have made it there over the years, and I’ve been able to travel vicariously through them in small ways.

I’ve rounded up a few reasons why this pocket of India interests me, not only to spark your own wanderlust, but to quench my own.

Ayurveda is really heavy here.

Life is strange sometimes. I first heard of Ayurveda on a trip to Zimbabwe a few years ago. I was there for a wedding and struggling to balance my mood and hormones due to my PMDD. The sister of the groom and I were chatting one day and she told me about Ayurveda and it kind of blew my mind.

For those unfamiliar with Ayurveda, it relies on many herbs and natural oils sourced from plants that grow in Kerala. It’s been used to treat a variety of illnesses and to promote a more balanced lifestyle.

Since this is such a part of Kerala’s culture and history, I’d love to experience some sort of experience around Ayurveda, even if it’s a body massage, hair treatment or full-on oil bath.

It has the highest literacy rate in India.

The more I travel, the more I realize how important education is for a person. Having grown up in an upper middle-class family just outside of Washington, D.C. I never really had to struggle in this area. At the time, I took it for granted because I didn’t know any other reality.

Travel has opened my eyes to not only poverty but to education…and how a lack of education makes it really hard to change your economic status. It happens in my own country and it happens in other countries around the world.

Kerala has a literacy rate of 93.1%. It is also the first state to have 100% primary education for children. When I finally visit, I’d love to volunteer at a school and meet some of these amazing children.

New heights lead to new perspectives.

This past year for me has been all about healing and with healing, has come new priorities in life. Instead of counting countries I’ve visited, I count experiences. I guess part of that simply comes with growing up. Growing out of the person you thought you had to be and into the person you were meant to be.

Experience-wise, Kerala has some pretty epic ones. One that really excites me is watching the sunrise at the world’s highest tea estate. The estate is located in Kolukkumalai, a town on the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and from what I hear, is one of the most peaceful places ever.

The view from the top overlooks green terraces, Tamil plains and the chola forest. After sunset, I’d enjoy a slow start to my morning with some freshly brewed tea. I’ve heard it’s delicious.

It looks like heaven on earth.

Pardon the cheesy line here, but even National Geographic included it on its list of “Ten Paradises of the World” and that was back in 1999 before mass tourism hit.

Coconuts are a big part of the state’s economy; in fact, close to 8 hectares of cultivated area are designated to coconut plantations. As a result, Kerala is responsible for about 45% of India’s coconuts. So, not only are these coconut trees beautiful to look at, but it’s providing jobs for locals living here.

Then there are the backwaters, comprised of lagoons and lakes. This channel covers almost half the length of Kerala and lies parallel to the Arabian Sea. The water is turquoise and calm, and I can’t wait to get on a boat and see all this amazing nature up close.

*This post is sponsored by Kerala Tourism. All opinions are my own. 

La entrada Here’s Why I Want to Visit Kerala (and you should, too)! se publicó primero en Bohemian Trails.

I’ve rounded up 5 of my favorite Caribbean islands to escape to this winter, including a unique experience in each. For more inspiration, Beaches is a good starting point.

Barbados

I had the absolute best time in Barbados. When I wasn’t lounging at my resort, sipping cocktails by the beach or jumping on a water trampoline, I was swimming. Swimming with turtles to be exact. The island os well-known for their sea turtle population and I had the chance to see them up close—note, this was in their natural environment and not at an attraction of sorts. The tour also included stops at two different shipwrecks, which had me feeling all sorts of Rose Dawson.

Anguilla

I didn’t expect to love Anguilla as much as I did and to this day, it remains one of my favorite Caribbean islands. My most magical memory included a sunset sailing excursion, complete with a Champagne toast, a full dinner spread and bottomless wine and beer. I met so many special people on that small boat; many of whom I’m still in touch with today. The best part was getting to take in the view from the front of the boat.

Turks and Caicos

When I think about my long weekend in the Turks and Caicos, I think of total relaxation. There are some trips where I really go all out in terms of activities but here, I decided to take it easy. My trip was filled with indulgent dinners, a rejuvenating visit to the spa and catching up on emails while I sat ocean-side and sipping a coconut with a straw. If you’re looking for a more active itinerary, there is no shortage of water and land sports to choose from.

The Bahamas

There’s no wrong time to tour the Bahamas, and that’s why it’s making this list. Winter is of course an ideal time. In my case, my trip overlapped with Junkaroo, so I had the chance to participate in Carnival. I loved seeing all the colorful costumes and more so, learning how intricate the designs are and just how many hours go into creating one to completion. Festivals aside, I loved laying lazily on the beach, shaded under a large palm tree.

Aruba

Aruba was one of the first Caribbean islands I visited and for that reason, I think it will always have a special place in my heart. Our group did all sorts of activities: snorkeling in clear blue waters, Yoga SUP, and even Aruba’s version of tennis. I also made sure to take time to slow down and appreciate the mere beauty of this place. Sunsets here are gorgeous as are the warm-hearted people who call it hope.

For more suggestions of islands to visit, here’s a fun infographic from Beaches. 

This post is in collaboration with Beaches. All opinions are my own. 

La entrada My Favorite Caribbean Islands to Escape to This Winter se publicó primero en Bohemian Trails.

I am thrilled to announce that I’ll be co-leading another writing + wellness + wanderlust retreat over New Years! Mark your calendars for December 29-January 3.

My co-leader, Heather Suzanne, is not only one of my favorite Yoga teachers I’ve had the pleasure of working with, but among my dearest friends in the world.

We met each other at a retreat in Costa Rica in 2017 and immediately recognized a connection and compatibility for a deep, ongoing and profound friendship. As writers, yoga practitioners and international adventurers, it became pretty clear that we were destined to one day lead our own retreats and share our passions, perspectives and gifts with the world.

We are offering a chance to renew your outlook and begin 2020 with a restored sense of possibility and wellbeing, plus a new sense of direction, and trust in your own unique gifts. 

Our mutual love for Lake Atitlan, Guatemala felt like a clear sign to both of us, that this would be the perfect place to host our gathering. The close proximity to the US, paired with its colorful and rich culture and beautiful scenery made this country an ideal choice.

Take a look at where we’re staying!

Here’s what’s included:

*Accommodations for the 5-night retreat
*Lake transportation to/from Lake Atitlan to our villa
*All meals –> Heather and I will take care of all meals, including a NYE dinner in town along with chef-cooked dinners.
*Daily Yoga + guided meditation led by Heather
*Daily coaching (writing, starting your own business, being a digital nomad, mental health on the road, etc. led by Megan)
*Complimentary kayaks + stand-up paddle-boards
*Access to the large villa, including outdoor decks and all common areas

What’s not included:

*Roundtrip airfare to Guatemala City
*Transportation from Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan (we can help arrange this for you).
*Any meals or activities not hosted as part of the retreat (so, for example, if you choose to explore one of the other towns on your own one day).
*Travel insurance (required)

ACCOMMODATION and PRICING:

**Please note, pricing is per person, and includes not only accommodation but meals, coaching, Yoga, meditation and access to the entire villa.

A half-floor up, you will find a bedroom with queen + bunk beds and a full bath with a view to the sky. 

1 X Queen bed- $1750
2 X Twin Bunks – $1650

Walk upstairs through a sunlit atrium where you will find two master bedrooms with king beds, each with its own bathroom and patio–one with an outdoor soaking tub and shower. 

1 X King Bed – $1850
1 X King Bed – Outdoor shower and soaking tub- $1950

There is also a charming sleeping loft with a queen + a double bed reached by stair-ladder that older kids, especially, will love. 

1 X Queen bed – $1650
1X Double bed – $1600 

The entry room/den, with full bath, doubles as an additional sleeping space with an extra-long daybed.

Extra long daybed: $1500
Air mattress (2 spaces available): $1400

All beds feature high-quality sheets and pillows with decadent down comforters.

To reserve your spot, please email megan@bohemiantrails.com including your name and your preferred room. At this time, we will ask for a non-refundable $400 USD to reserve your spot.

La entrada Reflections on the Lake: Join us in Guatemala this New Years! se publicó primero en Bohemian Trails.

About every week, I receive emails from people who want to “do what I do” and to be honest, this blog is only a fraction of my day-to-day work. That said, I have carved out a career that is completely location independent and I believe that you can make it happen, too!

Scroll below for my suggestions on majors to choose in college. Of course, don’t fret if you’ve studied something else. I’m proof that you can still use your skills and strengths to land your dream remote job.

Psychology

Let’s start with what I know. Back in 2009 I graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology (I double majored in English/Communications). At the time, I was a little frustrated that I had chosen this major, especially since I no longer wanted to be a traditional psychologist or social worker. Instead, I was set to move to New York City to try to break into the fashion industry. Talk about a career change, right?!

Less than six-months into my life in New York, I realized how valuable a degree in Psychology really is. Sure, you might not be professionally counseling anyone but you use your knowledge in every single situation with another human. In the seven years I lived in New York—plus the three years divided between San Francisco and Hong Kong—I encountered some very difficult personalities. This isn’t to say that I wasn’t difficult myself at times, but it made interpersonal interactions and conflict resolution a whole lot easier. 

Having a background in Psychology has given me a tremendous amount of understanding, empathy, awareness and emotional intelligence. As both a remote contractor and female entrepreneur who travels for a living, empathy is the key to everything. 

Writing (of any sort)

I know, I know, print magazines are essentially a thing of the past and everyone is reaching for their Kindle over a good old paperback these days. That said, I truly believe that good writing is always going to be a ‘need.’ Yes, there’s been a significant shift from print to digital—even bloggers are seeing a shift from writing on their websites to writing copy for an Integral post—good writing is still good writing. 

It’s also important to remember that travel writing and blogging are only two ways to make money professionally. Over the past ten years, I’ve dabbled in all sorts of writing: creative, branded content, conversion copy for websites, customer service templates, social media copy, Facebook ad copy, you name it. Today, writing is an integral element of everything that we do and I can’t tell you how many companies there are out there that need good storytellers.

International Studies

Before traveling regularly (remember, my first international trip wasn’t until I was 21), I’ll admit that I mostly stayed out of politics. While I’m still not a fan about talking about US politics, especially in this climate, I realize how important it is to be informed at the very least.

International studies, as its name suggests, is the study of politics, economics and cultural issues around the world. You learn a lot about how other countries operate and as a traveler, this understanding is emphasized. You become a citizen of the world and are able to better assimilate into different cultures…because you have a better awareness of how the people in those countries live their lives.

International Studies is a pretty common major, and many universities offer programs. You can even gain your degree online, which makes it even better suited to busy schedules. Maryville University offers a course-load that will earn you a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies.

Business Management 

Back in college, I wasn’t interested in Business Management because my definition of that involved me working in a huge corporation barely making a different. Wow, was I wrong! Once I started my own company, I realized how clueless I was about business. Naturally, I come from more of a creative standpoint and as an empath, the prospect of pushing people to buy something is a major turn off. 

So, with that being said, I’ve had to learn business management the hard way…in the real world! In the first few years of Bohemian Trails going live, I definitely made some poor business decisions. I also didn’t negotiate pricing and assumed I was ‘lucky’ to be getting anything. Oh, no, no, no! As time went on, I slowly began turning offers down and, instead, focusing on bigger and more long-term goals I wanted to achieve. 

While I’d say that I’ve come a long way in terms of negotiation and knowing my worth in the workplace, having a background in business management would have made the transition from full-time employee to full-time business owner a lot smoother.

The three D’s: Designer, Developer, Data Analyst 

Where do I even start with these three! Yes, there are three because I couldn’t just pick one. Having worked a couple years in San Francisco, I can tell you that is you have one (or all three) of these skills, you are in a really good place. 

Pay-wise, developers make the most money and if you’re hoping for remote work, it is possible. Many companies based in SF actually outsource their development team to another country where they can pay you less because there is a lower cost of living. (some companies pay you the same; it really depends). 

For me, I think becoming a developer is out of my skillset at this point in time but I really do wish I had some design and data analyst understanding. I often need to create designs for Instagram and other social channels and while there are some really useful apps out there to help non-designer types like me, it takes me twice as long to come up with something half as creative as an actual designer would.

What was your major in school? Tell me in the comments below!

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