10 Tips for Long Flights

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I love flying. Do you? (If you have flight anxiety, check out this post for ways to overcome that.)

I love the high energy of anticipation in airports, how quickly one can cross a country or an ocean and the sense of adventure that comes with rising into the air.

However, those treks from coast to coast across the US or reaching those international destinations might require hours of sitting on an airplane. To make these trips more enjoyable and less stressful, try these 10 tips for long flights.

10 Tips for Long Flights

Long flights of 6 or more hours can not only cause physical fatigue, they may create mental stress and increase the risk for dehydration, upset your digestive system and interfere with sleep patterns.

I accept that exploring a new destination in a faraway place comes with a price, beyond the cost of the airline ticket. There are ways to ease the effects however. Try these 10 tips for long flights so that you arrive ready for your adventure.

Stay Hydrated

One of the most common effects from long flights is dehydration. While flying it’s very easy to become dehydrated due to the airplane cabin’s low humidity levels.

As a result, you feel thirsty and your mucous membranes in the nose, throat and sinuses dry out. A headache frequently accompanies dehydration along with dry lips and skin.

To counter dehydration, drink LOTS of water. Most people won’t. Why? They might have to use the restroom more. This is actually a bonus though, as getting up and moving frequently is another important tip.

Those little cups of water offered during the flight are not enough. Carry your own water canister and refill it frequently. Note: you must take an empty cannister through security however once through that checkpoint, you can fill your cannister and carry it onto the plane.

If you run out of water, ask the flight attendant for a refill.

Sleep as Much as Possible

Especially on red eye flights, that travel to international destinations at night, sleeping helps you arrive feeling more fresh and ready to go.

Many people, including me, find it difficult to sleep while airborne.

Bring an eye mask and earplugs to help shut out light and noise. Get comfortable with a neck pillow and blanket. Or play a movie you’ve seen many times, turn the volume down low and sleep through it.

Whenever you stir, drink water, walk to the restroom and then get comfy and try sleeping again.

10 Tips for Long Flights hydrate — !0 Tips for Long Flights – stay hydrated and get as much sleep as possible

Choose an Aisle Seat

If you get to choose your seat, pick the aisle seat. That location makes it easier to get up to stretch, go to the restroom and occasionally stretch your legs out. Just don’t leave your legs out in the aisle to prevent tripping another passenger or a flight attendant.

Bring a Book to Read

If sleeping is out of the question for you, bring a book you’ve been meaning to read. For fun, try a genre you wouldn’t normally consider. You can pick up paperback books at the airport or purchase one from your favorite shop and when finished with it, give it to someone at your return airport or leave it in a the restroom or on a table in a cafe for another passenger to pick up.

10 tips for long flights aisle — 10 Tips for Long Flights – choose an aisle seat if possible

Avoid Sugar, Alcohol and Caffeine

Avoiding products with sugar helps to prevent a sugar rush and the tiredness that follows and for some, like me, sugar can cause restless legs.

And alcohol and caffeine contribute to dehydration. Drink water instead of wine or soda.

Bonus tip: flying creates digestive distress, also known as gassiness. To prevent discomfort and perhaps embarrassment, also avoid carbonated drinks, veggies like broccoli, red meat, apples and other high fiber foods, beans and fried foods.

Distract Yourself

If you can’t sleep and reading isn’t your thing, try watching a movie or series, listening to music, playing games or chatting with your seatmate, if that person is awake too and wants to engage.

My personal favorite activity while on long flights is movie watching. I enjoy browsing through the large selection of on flight films and catching up on movies I’ve missed. I like carrying my own earbuds with me but they are available on request.

10 tips for long flights chat — 10 Tips for Long Flights – I enjoyed chatting with my seat mate on my trip to Dublin Ireland.

Walk and Stretch Frequently

It’s important to keep muscles limber by taking frequent walking and stretching breaks. Use your trips to the restroom as an opportunity to stretch out cramped leg muscles and also improve circulation and help prevent swelling in lower legs and ankles.

Wear Comfy Clothes

During long flights, wear the comfiest clothes possible. Doing so creates less restriction and improves circulation. This isn’t the time for tight jeans. Opt for loose fitting pants, layered shirts, light jacket and sneakers. The only exception might be if you are taking boots along on the trip, then wear those to save space in your carryon or luggage.

I like layering because it’s generally very cool in the cabin and I can add the lightweight jacket over two shirts or use it as a blanket.

10 tips for long flights comfy — 10 Tips for Long Flights – dress in comfiest clothes possible

Try Compression Socks

If your legs or feet tend to swell during long flights, try compression socks. I tried these for the first time last December, flying to Edinburgh, and I loved them. My legs and feet didn’t swell and they were less restless. In fact, I wore them every day while walking in Edinburgh and they seemed to invigorate my legs.

Remove Shoes during Flight

Carry an extra pair of thick, woolen socks and put them on during the flight.

On my last international flight, I removed my boots after we reached cruising altitude and pulled on a pair of thick woolen socks over my compression socks. It raised my coziness level considerably.

And bonus, when I wear those socks now I’m instantly transported back to that overnight flight and the thrill of adventure.

10 tips for long flights southwest — Charleston SC airport

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July 3, 2023

Favorite Alignment Quotes

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This year, 2023, is my Year of Alignment. As we pass the halfway mark, with six months gone already, I’m more aware than ever how important alignment is to me.

I look forward to sharing with you soon what this year has looked like as it has unfolded.

This post brings to you my favorite alignment quotes that I’ve collected the last few months.

Why Collect Quotes?

Words are powerful. Spoken aloud, written as affirmations, whispered when no one else hears them to bolster the heart and fortify intentions, words have an energy of their own, to bring forth good…or not. Words can raise my vibrational frequency…or lower it.

I’m recognizing just how important this is as I journey through this Year of Alignment. The words I speak are a reflection of the thoughts and beliefs I hold. They are often a mirror, a true reflection back to me of my inner life, especially in an unguarded moment.

I collect quotes that “ring my bell”, as my granddaughter Aubrey used to say when she was younger. Those words were her way of expressing whether something, usually an object, was in alignment with her desires…or not.

During my “years of”…I gather words and quotes that align with who I am and who I am becoming at that time. My journals are full of reflections as I use those quotes as jumping off points into deeper truths. They become markers on the map of my journey, for the year.

Here are some of my favorite alignment quotes for the first half of the year.

Favorite Alignment Quotes

“To turn you dreams into reality, all your resources, efforts and concentration should be aligned in the same direction.” Dr. Roopleen

These words ring true for me. When I join my efforts with a specific focus on my dreams, the reality is born.

It’s not magic. It’s alignment at work and it is powerful.

“In order to live a rich life, everything about who you are must be one, in alignment and in pure harmony.” Suze Orman

I know how painful it feels when my physical body is out of alignment. It affects every part of me. The same is true when my thoughts and beliefs are out of alignment with my words and actions.

“When your passions and desires align you cannot hold them back.” MF Moonzajer

The alignment of my passions and desires led to a new career path this year. More about that in a future post.

Favorite Alignment Quotes travel agent — Exploring a whole new world due to alignment.

Favorite Alignment Quotes from People I Respect

“Deep within, you know that the only thing that is truly important is being in alignment with spirit.” Wayne Dyer

For me, my spiritual self and my physical self MUST be in alignment.

“When you examine the lives of the most influential people who have ever walked among us, you discover one thread that winds through them all. They have been aligned first with their spiritual nature and only then with their physical selves.” Albert Einstein

Powerful words from someone I greatly admire. This man of science saw the importance of aligning the spiritual side with the physical.

“When you find that your life is out of alignment with your grandest idea of yourself, seek to change it.” Neale Donald Walsch

When my reality isn’t matching my dreams and desires, I am out of alignment. The shift happens within, often after deeper soul searching. Then the reality shifts as well.

Favorite Alignment Quotes laptop — Working and living…in alignment.

Favorite Alignment Quotes that Guide Me

“If you can tune into your purpose and really align with it, setting goals so that your vision is an expression of that purpose, then life flows so much more easily.” Jack Canfield

Experiencing the ease that comes with being in the flow of life is a mirror for me as well. Resistance takes me out of that flow of life…and out of alignment.

“A lot of conflict you have in your life exists simply because you’re not living in alignment; you’re not being true to yourself.” Steve Maraboli

I am learning to see conflict at a warning that I am not living in alignment with my truest, most authentic self.

“Your goals and the tasks you choose to accomplish your goals either align with dreams and core values or they don’t. It’s that simple.” Julie Connor

I am finding it really is that simple.

Favorite Alignment Quotes - travel — Favorite Alignment Quotes – travel

THE Alignment Quote Taking Me into the Future

This profound quote and the accompanying photo mean a great deal to me.

“Whatever I align myself with are the very things that will create a line into my future.” Craig D Lounsbrough

The time I spent in the mountains of northern Georgia recently…exploring, creating content, working remotely in a beautiful setting, experiencing new things…casts out ahead of me the line I am following into my future.

The photo below of that time in Georgia perfectly captures the energy of the quote above.

I read that quote and look at that photo and they both resonate with me and inspire me.

Favorite Alignment Quotes mountains — This photo captures my year of alignment perfectly.

Your Favorite Quote

Whether you chose a word for this year or not, is there a quote that inspires your journey? Share it with me in the comments below.

As this Year of Alignment continues, I’ll gather more quotes for my own journey. And of course, I’ll share them with you!

Click photo to order this inspirational art from Amazon:

June 26, 2023June 27, 2023

Quigley’s Castle

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During a recent trip to NW Arkansas, Greg and I enjoyed a wonderful overnight experience at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, near Eureka Springs, Arkansas. After leaving the sanctuary the next morning, we decided to stop at Quigley’s Castle, located a short distance from Turpentine Creek, and on our way home anyway.

I’m so glad we did! This unique property was well worth the nominal fee to explore the house and gardens.

How unique is Quigley’s Castle?

I’ve never seen anything like it!

A Woman’s Dream Home

Elise Fioravanti moved to the Ozarks as a young girl in 1919. Walking to and from school each day, she collected pretty or interesting rocks that caught her interest.

When she was 18 years old, Elise married Albert Quigley. He owned a nearby farm and lumber mill. After their marriage, Albert moved Elise’s rock collection to their home, a three room lumber shack. The hard working husband promised his bride a home someday, built from the lumber cut off of their land.

Over the years five children joined Elise and Albert in their tiny shack. She grew impatient waiting for the promise of a bigger house to be fulfilled. One June morning in 1943, Elise gathered her children after Albert went to work at the mill.

She instructed them to help her tear down the shack. By the time Albert returned home, his family and their belongings were in the chicken house. He agreed to begin building their home.

Elise knew exactly what she wanted: plenty of room for her robust family and a “home where I felt I was living in the world instead of in a box. I designed it in my mind, but I couldn’t tell anybody what I wanted, so I sat down with scissors, paste, cardboard and match sticks and made a model.”

Quigley's Castle exterior — The rock studded exterior of Quigley’s Castle.

The Construction of Quigley’s Castle

Elise’s house plans called for 28 windows. Albert wanted to wait to build the house. Glass for those windows was unavailable during the war. However, living in a chicken house, as a family of seven, inspired him to begin building immediately. During the three years that they waited for glass to arrive, the family covered the window openings with layers of fabric.

To bring nature indoors for Elise, four feet of earth was left bare between the edges of the living space and the walls. Into that soil, Elise planted flowering, tropical plants that grew up to the second story ceiling. Some of those plants remain. They are over 70 years old now.

The rocks and stones that Elise collected over the years became part of her dream home. For three years she covered the outside walls with rocks, crystals, fossils and arrowheads. She cultivated a perennial garden around the house. And inside, a collection of hand made crafts and favorite items decorate the house along with cherished antiques. Elise’s love of nature is evident in every room as is her creativity.

Quigley's Castle indoor plants — Plants growing indoors, in the dirt between the floors and the walls.

Touring Quigley’s Castle

I don’t want to show you everything inside the house. Some things just have to be experienced. However, take a brief tour with me, and appreciate Mrs. Quigley’s Castle.

Lower Level

Albert and Elise are gone, passing away in 1972 and 1984, respectively. However a granddaughter currently lives in the home. She greets visitors at the front garden gate, shares her grandparents’ stories and then allows guests to roam the gardens and tour the house, on their own. She has a private bedroom and bath that is not open to the public, although the rest of the house can be explored at leisure.

The lower level of the house contains a parlor, dining area, living room and kitchen. These rooms are flooded with light from the many windows. And surrounded by the towering plants growing in the dirt around the perimeter.

The downstairs rooms are homey and comfortable, with handcrafted frames holding family photos and lots of natural wood. In one corner of the living room, Elise created a miniature indoor pond that holds fish.

Quigley's Castle living room — Quigley’s Castle – comfy living room.

Quigley's Castle kitchen — I loved the country kitchen, with plants growing at the end, in Quigley’s Castle.

Upper Level

Upstairs there are four bedrooms and at least one bathroom.

French doors open to the outdoors, reached by narrow wooden bridges that cross over the gap between floors and walls. Elise could enjoy the experience of sleeping in the tree tops indoors, with her plants brushing the ceilings of the second story.

One bedroom, called the Butterfly Room, contains an extensive collection of butterflies, all mounted on one wall. She completed this project when she was 68 years old.

These bedrooms are quite charming and airy and feel so connected to the outdoors. When we visited in April, the French doors stood open and a wonderful breeze stirred through the rooms.

Quigley's Castle bedroom — One of the upstairs bedrooms at Quigley’s Castle.

Looking down from the upstairs to the ground floor below.

Quigley’s Castle Gardens

After spending about half an hour exploring the house, we exited through the back door, to slowly walk in the gardens.

I have a special affinity for gardens and Elise’s are beautiful in a wild way. It was fun to walk down the paths, admiring the trees and plants and flowers, the koi pond and the many items Elise made from her rocks. She set up a table just outside the backdoor and did her concrete and rock work there.

Greg and I both felt inspired by her creativity and her dedication. She leaves behind her vision fulfilled as a legacy to her family and all who walk through the garden gate.

Quigley's Castle koi pond — Koi pond in the front garden.

Wildly beautiful gardens at Quigley’s Castle.

Quigley’s Castle Information

This amazing property is located at 274 Quigley Castle Road, just outside of Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

The house and gardens are open to the public from April 1 until October 31, from 10:00 am until 4:30 pm. The castle is closed on Sundays and Thursdays.

There is a $9.00 tour fee for ages 14 and up. Children under age 14 are free and must be accompanied by an adult. As stated, the tour is self guided although there are photos and information throughout the house.

Quigley’s Castle is not handicap accessible. You must be able to walk over uneven ground and climb stairs.

Check out their website HERE.

When you visit Eureka Springs or Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, add this incredible attraction to your list of things to do. If you appreciate unusual houses and robust creativity, you’ll love Quigley’s Castle.

Do you have a child who loves to collect rocks? Click photo below to check out this National Geographic Rock and Mineral Kit.

May 22, 2023

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA

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The mountain town of Blue Ridge, in northern Georgia, boasts a population of 1,244 residents. However, this beautiful town lives BIG and offers visitors many fun opportunities and activities.

With more than 100,000 acres of Chattahoochee National Forest, 300 miles of hiking trails, 100 miles of streams and those gorgeous mountains, Blue Ridge is the perfect location for a long getaway weekend or a family vacation.

Check out 10 things to do in Blue Ridge GA, recognized by Southern Living Magazine as one of the South’s Best Mountain Towns, in 2022.

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA

Whether you spend time outdoors, explore downtown Blue Ridge or get cozy at a local cabin, check out these fun ways to make the most of your visit.

Explore Downtown Blue Ridge

This charming small town was established in 1886 as a railroad stop. Visitors rode the train into Blue Ridge, ate a meal and then walked to the mineral springs. Because of those pure mineral springs, Blue Ridge became known as a health resort town.

Today visitors can walk along Main Street browsing through boutique shops, dining in cafes and watching the town’s resident roosters strut about.

The small town atmosphere inspires chats with friendly shop owners and local residents. Download the Blue Ridge Historic Walking Tour HERE.

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA explore downtown — 10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA – explore the historic downtown

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

In the heart of downtown Blue Ridge sits the train depot. Enjoy a four hour rail excursion along Toccoa River from Blue Ridge to McCaysville. You can choose to ride in an authentic indoor rail car, an open air car or go premier class.

After arriving in McCaysville, travelers have two hours to explore the town and grab lunch before the return trek to Blue Ridge.

Check out the train schedule and purchase online tickets with this LINK.

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA scenic rail — 10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA – scenic railway

Enjoy a Thriving Art Community

Blue Ridge has a vibrant art community with galleries to visit, live music to listen to and a local theater.

The mission of the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association is to provide ample opportunities in the art realm. They are devoted to bringing quality exhibits and events to the community.

Purchase theater tickers HERE. And for a fun summer experience, visit Swan Drive In for an outdoor movie.

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA art vibes — Check out the art vibes in Blue Ridge! Pictured, 4 Elements Fine Art & Custom Framing

Haunted Blue Ridge Ghost Tour

Take a night time stroll through downtown Blue Ridge and learn the spooky tales associated with the area. Hear local legends and see haunted spots with a knowledgeable guide.

The tour last about 90 minutes and covers a mile, with frequent stops. Tickets must be purchased online prior to tour.

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA haunts — 10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA – ghost tour

Indoor Mini Golf Downtown

Located on Main Street in downtown Blue Ridge, 2nd Story Entertainment offers indoor family fun.

Play a full 18 hole mini golf course that weaves in and out of eight themed rooms in the 112 year old building that once housed a hotel. Included on the mini golf course are other games such as giant connect 4s, giant checkers and magnetic darts.

The venue also provides arcade games such as Air Hockey and Ms Pacman and snacks along with water and sodas.

2nd Story Entertainment in downtown Blue Ridge

Stay in a Local Cabin

While in Blue Ridge, you simply must stay in a Southern Comfort Cabin! Although there are many activities to enjoy in the area, having a comfy cabin to return to at the end of the day provides a place to gather, share the fun from the day and relax.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals offers so many accommodation choices from forest views to lake views to mountain views. There’s a cabin for every budget and spaces for two people….or 10. One could never leave the cabin and feel content!

I stayed in the Breakaway Ridge Cabin with mountain views. You can learn more about this beautiful place HERE.

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA cabin — 10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA – stay in a Southern Comfort Cabin

Blue Ridge Lake

Blue Ridge Lake is a reservoir in Fannin County, nestled along the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It encompasses 3,300 acres of water, rests approximately 1,686 feet above sea level, and has 65 miles of shoreline. The lake is fed by Toccoa River and is managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority.

The aquamarine waters make this lake one of the most picturesque in Georgia. Blue Ridge Lake offers campsites, swimming, boating, picnic areas, a full service marina and rentals for all kinds of water activities. Explore the lake in a pontoon boat or rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard.

The Morganton Point Recreation Area is the perfect spot for swimming. There are restroom facilities here and concessions.

Hiking Trails

Nature enthusiasts will love the many hiking trails in the Blue Ridge area. Choose from trails around the lake, trails through the forest or trails to waterfalls.

Hike to the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge or sit near the Fall Creeks Falls after a fairly short trek through the forest. Or walk part of the Appalachian Trail.

Check out the top ten hiking trails HERE.

10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA hike — 10 Things to Do in Blue Ridge GA – hike to the Fall Creek Falls

Visit Mercier Orchards

Located just outside of Blue Ridge, Mercier Orchards is a 4th generation owned and operated apple orchard. The orchards offer pick your own fruit times, tractor tours and scheduled activities.

Their huge on site building contains a cafe, a market with fresh seasonal fruits and veggies, a bakery and a huge assortment of apple products, kitchen ware and other goodies.

Discover all that this place offers, including the BEST fried pies, HERE.

Expedition Bigfoot Museum

We initially giggled about wanting to visit this museum and data collection site. However, we discovered the museum is a fascinating place to explore. We left firm believers in the existence of Bigfoot!

You can tour this museum in about an hour. Those with an interest in Bigfoot could easily spend more time there. The site is also a research facility and reporting center. The exhibits are science based and contain a great deal of evidence collected over the years from those who have had encounters. Truly, it was an eye opening experience for me.

It turns out that northern Georgia is a Bigfoot hotspot. Many have reported sightings and encounters in the area. With the thick forests and mountains, I can believe these elusive creatures exist.

Watch for a future feature post about this museum. You can check out hours of operation and get more info with this LINK.

Which Blue Ridge Activities Will You Experience?

As you can see, there are so many fun activities in the Blue Ridge area. And I didn’t list horseback riding, ziplining or visiting breweries and wineries.

I must go back, for the ghost tour. Fall is the perfect time for a train ride, to appreciate the colorful leaves on the trees. And how fun to see the town decorated for Christmas.

Which of the activities will you try first, when you visit Blue Ridge?

Posing with Bigfoots...Bigfeet?? — Posing with Bigfoots….Bigfeet??

Pack along an excellent pair of hiking boots, like these! Click on image to order.

May 15, 2023June 20, 2023

Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin

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American essayist Philip Conners wrote,

“The greatest gift of life on the mountain is time. Time to think or not think, read or not read, scribble or not scribble—to sleep and cook and walk in the woods, to sit and stare at the shapes of the hills.”

While I don’t live in the mountains, I recently got to enjoy the gift of time that Connors refers to. During my hosted stay, I appreciated the time to think…or not…to read or not…to sleep and cook my own food and take a walk in the deep forests surrounding Blue Ridge, Georgia.

My home for those days spent in the mountains provided the perfect space to fully savor my stay. Learn more about Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals HERE. And then discover my favorite things about Breakaway Ridge Cabin. Spoiler alert…staring at the shapes of the hills makes the list.

Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin

Greg and I stayed in the Breakaway Ridge Cabin, high atop a mountain just two miles from the charming town of Blue Ridge. We immediately fell in love with the area, the mountains AND the gorgeous cabin.

Following are my favorite things about Breakaway Ridge Cabin…the unexpected touches, the thoughtful inclusions, the great use of space.

Spacious Cabin

With five bedrooms, three bathrooms and two living areas, not including the incredible outdoor room, this cabin offers plenty of space to sprawl. Although it was just Greg and me on this trip, we appreciated the ability to choose different spaces to use, find a nook for solitude or enjoy the views from various vantage points.

With two bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs plus a full kitchen, dining area and great room AND three bedrooms/sleeping areas downstairs with a bathroom, mini kitchen and second living area, this setup is ideal for a family or a group of friends.

We could easily envision our entire family joining us in this wonderful cabin.

Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin spacious — Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin – spacious

Spectacular Views

The view from Breakaway Ridge Cabin is incredibly beautiful. The back of the cabin faces a deep valley and tree shrouded mountains beyond. The outdoor room, the covered patio below, all the living areas and the bedrooms offer amazing views of those mountains.

And those views continually drew me, whether from the windows in my bedroom at sunrise or the rocking chairs on the back deck or the dual porch swings below. I never tired of watching the mountains and the play of light and shadow on them.

Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin view — Beautiful view

Full Kitchen for Meal Prep

I love accommodations with kitchens. Seven years ago I embraced a plant based lifestyle. Having a full kitchen to cook in allows me to create healthy meals and it saves money.

It’s also fun to try new restaurants when traveling so a good practice for me is to prepare my own meals for breakfast and supper and eat out for lunch, choosing places with vegan options.

The kitchen in Breakaway Ridge contained cookware, cutlery, glasses, mugs (for my hot tea!), plates, bakeware…everything needed to prepare meals. I shopped at home for groceries and toted them, since we drove to Blue Ridge. However, we visited nearby grocery stores TWICE for items we either forgot…or decided we needed.

Outdoor Room

When we arrived at Breakaway Ridge Cabin the first night, darkness was creeping up the mountain. We walked straight through the cabin and out onto the back deck to admire the view.

The outdoor room features comfy seating, a wood burning fireplace, a table and chairs for outdoor dining and two wooden rocking chairs tucked in their own alcove.

I LOVED this beautiful space and spent the most time out here, breathing in mountain air and relaxing or working remotely on my laptop. We built a small fire in the fireplace on our last night at the cabin and ate dinner watching the flames.

Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin outdoor room — Outdoor room was a favorite space for hanging out

Desk for Laptop

Although I didn’t sit at the desk in the great room, I did appreciate its existence. The desk made an ideal location for my laptop when not in use. With a handy outlet strip on the floor I could keep my laptop charged and ready for use. Also appreciated, wifi at the cabin. That wifi served the outdoor room as well making it easy to get work done quickly.

Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin desk — Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin – desk for laptop

Rocking Chairs

I’ve enjoyed the soothing, meditative experience of rocking in a rocking chair since my toddler days. With great delight, I frequently gravitated toward the two wooden rocking chairs on the cabin’s back deck, cup of hot tea in one hand, a book in the other.

Greg often started his day there, sitting quietly in one of the rocking chairs. reading or simply appreciating the view.

Greg enjoying one of the rocking chairs.

Storage Space

When I travel, I like to unpack my carryon and put everything away. At home, I’m a “place for everything and everything in its place” person.

The cabin features an abundance of drawers, shelves and closet space for unpacking and put clothing and toiletries away. I like a neat, tidy space because for me, clutter brings with it chaotic energy.

In Breakaway Ridge, the HUGE closets upstairs offer plenty of hangers and shelving for clothes, jackets and shoes and for stashing luggage. The bathrooms not only have drawers for belongings but adequate shelving behind cabinet doors.

I found out of sight storage in the kitchen for all of the groceries I brought or purchased and although we didn’t need to use any of the downstairs space, there’s lots of storage available there too.

Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin storage — Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin – lots of storage

Washer and Dryer

One of the bedroom closets upstairs holds a full size washer and dryer. An ironing board and iron hang on the inside of the door.

It’s so convenient to wash clothes after a day exploring in the woods or to do up all the dirty laundry BEFORE heading home. (Don’t you dislike having to do laundry as soon as you arrive home?)

Porch Swings

I feel about swings, the way that I do about rocking chairs. It’s a peaceful way to relax, giving the body something to do while the mind dreams big dreams.

Breakaway Ridge not only offers a swing, it offers two! These porch style swings hang beneath the deck, at the edge of the covered patio, and provide stunning views across the valley.

Porch swings with a view! Looking through the windows at the end of the second living area downstairs.

Play Cornhole

Downstairs, Breakaway Ridge keeps the fun going with a shuffleboard table, a poker/game table and shelves of jigsaw puzzles and an assortment of board games.

Outdoors, we found cornhole boards and happily challenged each other to a game. How incredible, with the trees stirring in the breeze and the sun chasing shadows across the mountains, to compete in a friendly game of cornhole.

Greg carried out snacks and tall glasses of water and after he beat me at cornhole, we sat in one of the swings as the sun set. It made the perfect finish to a fun, full day.

Cornhole game — Double the fun…cornhole game in the mountains.

Bonus Favorites

Truthfully, this list of favorites could go on and on. The hot tub on the patio, the Adirondack chairs grouped around a fire pit, the big screen tvs in each room (although we rarely turned them on, had it rained we could have watched a movie), the comfy beds…it was ALL perfect.

One other thing that I must mention was the ease of checking in and out. For this particular cabin, I received a code for the keypad on the door. When we checked out, I keyed in a special code that notified the staff of our departure. So simple. And I was so grateful for the convenience since we arrived late on our first night. We didn’t have to make arrangements to pick up a key.

Experience this place yourself by visiting the Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals website. Book the Breakaway Ridge Cabin or select another from their many options.

Plus, there’s still time to take advantage of the book three nights get a fourth night free Memorial Day Weekend special with this link.

So tell me…which of the above favorites appeals the most to you?

Favorite things about breakaway ridge cabin remote work — Favorite Things About Breakaway Ridge Cabin – an outdoor office with a view.

May 8, 2023May 9, 2023

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals

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What a joy, recently, to take a road trip to northern Georgia.

Greg and I loved our destination, the beautiful mountain town of Blue Ridge. And we loved and appreciated our luxurious cabin.

As guests of Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals we got to explore all that the area has to offer AND experience several days of downtime and restoration in the gorgeous Breakaway Ridge Cabin.

I’m excited to introduce you to Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals and their premiere guest services.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals Story

The company founders, the Stam Family, spent years vacationing in the North Georgia Mountains. They enjoyed their experiences there so much that in 1999 the Stams purchased two luxurious cabins in the Mountain Tops community, in Blue Ridge.

After transforming those cabins into vacation rentals, the family felt inspired to connect others to vacation cabin owners in the area. They wanted friends and family to experience the joy of a cabin vacation in the mountains.

Today, more than 20 years later, the company’s ongoing mission is to welcome guests to Blue Ridge, offer exceptional vacations and provide the highest value accommodations possible.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals outdoor room — This view from a Southern Comfort Cabin outdoor room is indeed inspiring!

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals – Breakaway Ridge Cabin

After driving 700+ miles through five states, we arrived at Breakaway Ridge Cabin just as darkness settled over the Blue Ridge area. From out vantage point high on a mountain, we caught the last of the sun’s rays as we unloaded the car and entered the cabin.

Even in the gathering shadows, we could appreciate the beauty of our accommodations. And stepping out onto the back deck, with views across a deep, dark valley to the tree studded mountains beyond, was magical.

I live in the Midwest, with rolling hills and flat, expansive land that was formerly prairie. The mountains inspire awe with their magnificence and at the same time, bring a centered sense of tranquility.

Take a tour with me, of Breakaway Ridge Cabin.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals first peek — First peek at the mountains from the cabin’s back deck.

Tour of the Cabin

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals offers almost 200 vacation properties in the Blue Ridge area. There’s a perfect accommodation for every need and budget, including mountain views, lake views, creek and river views, luxury cabins, forest homes, wheelchair accessible accommodations, downtown Blue Ridge locations, pet friendly, accommodations for large groups and private pool homes.

Given a list of possibilities for our stay, I selected a mountain view cabin. With its mountain top location, just minutes from Blue Ridge’s shops and restaurants, this accommodation combined the best of nature and small town fun.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals breakaway ridge cabin — Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals – Breakaway Ridge Cabin exterior

Main Living Area – Entry Level

Breakaway Ridge Cabin features five sleeping areas, three full bathrooms and two living areas, over two floors, with a full kitchen upstairs and a mini kitchen in the basement. There’s room here for up to 10 guests.

On the entry level, you walk into a gorgeous kitchen with stainless steel appliances. A kitchen is important to me. It allows me to create my own healthy meals.

In this space there is an eat at bar with bar stools plus a large wooden dining table with chairs and a bench.

Adjoining the spacious kitchen is the upstairs living area, with vaulted ceilings and a wood burning fireplace. A large screen tv rests above the fireplace. With so many things to do in Blue Ridge and the surrounding area, plus those incredible views from the cabin, we barely turned the television on.

The far end of the living room is all glass, with doors leading out onto the deck. There you can enjoy the outdoor living room with the fireplace, dine at the table and chairs set or rock in one of the two rocking chairs and simply enjoy the mountain air.

Full kitchen with all you need to prepare meals. — Full kitchen with all the cookware, dinnerware and utensils you need to prepare meals.

Upstairs living area with wood burning fireplace.

Nothing to obstruct the view — Just look at the view from the living room!

Bedrooms and Bathrooms – Entry Level

On either side of the living area are the entry level bedrooms, each with a king size bed and a full bath.

Bedroom one has a private en suite bathroom with a huge walk in shower complete with a waterfall shower head. The walk in closet is massive with plenty of hangers for clothes and shelves to stash luggage.

There’s a large screen tv here AND views of the mountains from the windows in the room. One of my favorite things was to get up early each morning, open the blinds and lie back in bed, watching the sky lighten with the rising of the sun.

Bedroom two’s large bathroom has a door into the living room as well, for guest use. And the walk in closet in that room contains a full size washer and dryer plus an ironing board and iron. This bedroom also offers a large screen tv and the attention grabbing views from the windows.

All bathrooms contain complimentary toiletries and have a blow dryer available. Towels and washcloths are provided too.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals primary bedroom — Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals – primary bedroom Breakaway Ridge Cabin

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals primary bathroom — Primary bedroom bath with huge walk in shower

Living Area – Lower Level

Through a doorway off of the dining area, stairs lead to the lower level.

The second living area features a gas log fireplace, a large screen tv, comfy sofas and chairs and a game table. There’s a shuffle board table set up and a variety of games and jigsaw puzzles stored on open shelving. Large windows not only let in ample light, they provide views of the mountains.

A mini kitchen makes it easy to keep cold drinks handy or fix a cup of coffee.

A door leads out to the covered patio. There one can soak in a hot tub, swing on porch swings, have a casual meal at the picnic table or build a fire in the fire pit. You can also play a competitive game of Corn Hole.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals lower level living area — Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals – lower level living area

Bedrooms and Bathroom – Lower Level

At the foot of the stairs is a small room with a set of bunk beds. Although not a full sized bedroom, this space works well for a couple of children or teens.

On either side of the living area/game room are bedrooms.

One contains a queen size bed and shares the attached downstairs bath with others on the lower level.

The other bedroom is perfect for children or teens with a bunk bed containing a full size mattress below and a twin size mattress above.

Both bedrooms have windows looking out toward the mountains.

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals bunk beds — Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals – bunk beds on lower level

Plan Your Vacation to the Mountains

Are you ready for a mountain getaway?

Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals is offering TWO specials.

Plan a Mother’s Day weekend and get 25% off of your booking. Or book a three night stay before May 31 and receive a fourth night for free! Click this link for the specials.

And enjoy browsing through all the vacation rental options at the Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals website. If you’d appreciate the Breakaway Ridge Cabin as much as I did, you can book it HERE. (I highly recommend that you do!)

My introduction to the Blue Ridge, Georgia area was so beautiful, relaxing and fun. I look forward to a return visit.

If you’d like to know more, watch for my next post with the special things about Breakaway Ridge Cabin that I especially enjoyed, followed by a post about all the fun things to experience in the Blue Ridge area.

If you need any help planning a trip to the mountains, send me a message!

Pick up this backpack. It’s perfect for a hike in the Georgia forests.

April 24, 2023April 25, 2023

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

For Christmas, my daughter and son in law gifted Greg and me an overnight stay at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, located near Eureka Springs, Arkansas.

Adriel and Nate LOVE Turpentine Creek. They’ve visited many times, typically booking around their wedding anniversary. And since the birth of their daughter Finley, they’ve taken her along with them for their stays.

Their love and appreciation for Turpentine Creek led them to want to share the experience with us. We recently booked our stay and discovered the wonder that is this refuge for big cats and other animals.

How Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Came to Be

In 2022, Turpentine Creek celebrated 30 years in operation.

The refuge officially began in 1992. However the incredible story starts in 1978 when Don and Hilda Jackson rescued their first lion, Bum. He was discovered tied to a cinder block in a backyard. Five years later, the Jacksons acquired Sheila, another lion. Her owners had tried, unsuccessfully, raising their baby with the lioness.

In 1991 a big cat breeder named Katherine Twiss showed up at the Jackson home, towing 42 big cats and other animals in cattle trailers. She was running from law enforcement.

The Jacksons moved the animals to a friend’s 460 acre ranch near Eureka Springs, Arkansas. With the priority of providing enclosures, shelter, food, water and health care, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge was formed in 1992, on its current site. An intern program was created in 1997 as Turpentine Creek continued to respond to the need to rescue wildlife.

During those 30+ years, TCWR has rescued more than 500 animals from abuse, abandonment and neglect, providing them with care and a lifetime home.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge sunset — Gorgeous sky as the sun sets at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge Mission and Vision

The sanctuary’s mission is to provide a lifetime refuge for abused and neglected big cats and bears, with an emphasis on tigers, lions, leopards and cougars.

Vision

“Through public education we work to end the Exotic Animal Trade, making sanctuaries like TCWR no longer necessary; together we can preserve and protect these magnificent predators in the wild for our children’s future.”

Guiding Principles

Education – working to end the Exotic Animal Trade while educating today’s youth with in-classroom visits and onsite programming through interpretive learning.

Preservation – rescuing survivors of the Exotic Animal Trade with an emphasis on big cats and bears, providing them with a safe, lifelong home, exceptional care and proper diets while working to preserve endangered species in the wild through pubic education and advocacy.

Compassion – big cats are predators, not pets or entertainment for the masses. They and other exotic and native wildlife deserve to live out their lives with dignity and allowed to be the wild animals they instinctively are.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge tea — Enjoying a cup of hot peppermint tea on the front porch of the Siberian Suite.

Turpentine Creek Lodging

Not only can you learn about the animals that call Turpentine Creek home, you can spend a night…or two or three…in the refuge.

Lodging includes a treehouse, safari suites with tigers as neighbors, the five Zulu Lodge suites, glamping safari tents and six RV spaces.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge is a non profit organization. All funds from lodging goes to the care of the animals and upkeep of the facilities.

A complimentary tram tour is included with lodging, as is the freedom to explore the Discovery Area with its wildlife inhabitants.

Click HERE to check out the available lodging.

You can also visit the refuge without spending the night. General admission includes walking through the Discovery Area and an hour long tram tour. Purchase tickets through this LINK.

Other tours are available as well, through the above link.

Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge tram — Educational tram tour of the facilities.

Meet Some of the Animals at Turpentine Creek

Turpentine Creek provides a home and care for the animals who live there. The refuge exists because of the need to rescue these beautiful creatures from horrendous situations.

There are currently 99 animals living at TCWR with enclosures currently being built to house more.

Meet a few of the residents of this sanctuary.

Joey

Joey is a female tiger, who shares her habitat with another tiger named Khaleesi. Their enclosure is next to the Siberian Suite.

Joey came to Turpentine Creek through rescue from a Colorado based cub petting and animal breeding facility. Altogether 115 animals were rescued, many of them suffering from neglect and medical conditions. Thirty four of those animals came to TCWR while the rest found forever homes in other sanctuaries.

Joey required the removal of a hematoma on her elbow when she arrived at her new home. Today she is a playful eight year old tiger who enjoys swimming and observing guests from her perch.

Lakota

Lakota is a Ti Liger, a hybrid. His father is a tiger. And his mother is a liger, a cross between a lion and a tiger, created for the entertainment industry.

Lakota came from the same Colorado facility as Joey. He shares his habitat in the Discovery Area with Aurora. Lakota is laid back, preferring naps over playtime, although he can still summon the energy to chase after Aurora.

Lakota the ti liger. — Lakota is a Ti Liger.

Mauri

Mauri is a lioness, rescued from an Indiana facility along with seven other big cats. A federal judge ordered the animals removed due to inhumane practices including declawing and prematurely removing cubs from their mothers. The rescue required the use of US Marshals who had to sweep the facility and then stand guard as the animals were removed. All of the big cats had health issues.

Mauri limps and is on pain management due to declawing. She’s still very playful and enjoys her enrichment toys and caroling at night with the other cats.

My Experience at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge

Siberian Suite

Greg and I arrived for our stay in the Siberian Suite, just after the check in time of 3:00 pm. The beautiful suite is located next to Joey and Khaleesi’s habitat and across from Mauri the lioness and the Discovery Area.

A corner table and chairs set provides a space to eat meals and holds complimentary tea and coffee. An apartment sized refrigerator contains water and juice, muffins, fruit and packets of oatmeal.

The rooms are spacious and attractive and the bathroom HUGE with both a sunken tub and shower. The couch in the living area converts into a full sized bed, making this suite perfect for two to four people. Children of all ages are welcome here along with pets.

I especially love the covered front porch, with its bistro table and two chairs.

As dusk approached we lit the citronella candle on the table, more for atmosphere than mosquitos, and settled in with drinks and snacks. As the sun set, the big cats began caroling…roaring and chuffing socially to each other, from all over the compound. It was an incredible chorus that sent shivers down my spine.

Siberian Suite living room — Siberian Suite living area

The Discovery Area and Tram Tour

We enjoyed exploring the Discovery Area the afternoon of our arrival and early the next morning. The enclosures house lions, tigers, hybrids, African servals, bobcats, cougars and bears. It’s a beautiful, peaceful area. The animals are well cared for and have large, safely enclosed areas to live and play in with night houses, heated during the colder months, for sleeping.

During our morning wanderings, we paused to sit on a bench down near the cougars. To our delight, several of the big cats nearby began caroling. The roars were SO loud and extremely beautiful.

Our scheduled tram tour took us on an hour long ride around the facility with an extremely knowledgeable guide. She shared stories about the animals we saw and information about the refuge.

We left after our tour with a deep appreciation for all that TCWR does to care for animals and their rescue of wildlife in need. And we departed with a greater awareness of the horrid practices out there that these gorgeous creatures suffer through.

White tiger — One of three white tiger siblings rescued from the Colorado facility. They were unable to walk due to metabolic bone disease. However all have healed now and can walk and play.

What You Can Do to Help

You can help Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in the following ways.

If you are in the Eureka Springs, Arkansas area stop by for a tour, to visit the giftshop or to enjoy an overnight experience. All fees collected go toward the care of the animals and the upkeep of the facilities. The address is 239 Turpentine Creek Lane, Eureka Springs, AR.

Make a donation. Every donation goes 100% toward the care of the animals.

Adopt or Sponsor an animal. With adoption, you receive a high-resolution 11″x 8.5″ certificate with a photo and short bio of your chosen animal, as well as room for the name of the recipient. Sponsorship includes a glossy 8×10 photo, biography certificate and one year pride membership.

Memberships come in a variety of levels. Sign up for the one that best suits your desires and you and up to four guests can get in to the refuge free.

The Legacy Program allows you to continue helping TCWR beyond your lifetime to ensure animal rescue continues and animals are cared for.

I highly recommend a visit to this amazing sanctuary. I’ll certainly return, again and again. I’m so grateful to Adriel, Nate and Finley for the gift of an overnight stay at Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. What an enriching experience. They’ve made me a fan and an advocate.

Have you ever visited a wildlife refuge?

Pack for your trip to Turpentine Creek:

April 10, 2023

Beyond the Open Door

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

I knew the next twelve months, this Year of Alignment, might become a powerful, life changing year. It’s April, and I’m already discovering the truth of that premonition.

One of the most surprising events to occur so far, within the first six weeks actually, is an additional stream of income.

Check out how this new opportunity came about and the significance of the name, Beyond the Open Door Travel Company.

Alignment Statement

My year began with an online class, geared toward alignment. The very first assignment, writing a passion statement, set the tone for the class…and it turns out…the year.

Thinking about what I most desired this year, I wrote:

I am manifesting a life of abundance that funds and supports my passion to travel and explore the world, solo, with family and with friends, trying fresh experiences, delving into different cultures and meeting new people.

I spent the first 21 days in January focusing on, meditating about and dreaming about that statement. In my journal I captured my thoughts around it and I created a screensaver for my phone with the statement.

Plus, I created my vision board for the year. Not surprisingly, the primary focus of the vision board is travel.

Travel IS my passion right now. It’s what lights up my soul. I’m enjoying my journeys and I want to share them with my children, grandchildren, other family members and friends. I absolutely love the process of planning out a trip and then experiencing it.

Beyond the Open Door vision board — My vision board for 2023

A Surprise Opportunity

In early February, I connected with a couple on Facebook, who loves to travel as well. I appreciate their perspectives on life and their enthusiasm. They asked if I had any interest in becoming a travel agent.

I’ve actually thought about adding “travel agent” to my list of jobs, for many years. So my answer was “Yes….I’m interested!” I attended an online Zoom class about becoming a travel agent, on February 10, and after the class, I immediately joined Archer Travel Group.

This action step felt SO aligned with who I am currently, and the passion statement I wrote on January 1. For me, what better way to add to my desires, abilities and finances to fund a life that draws me and connects with me than helping others plan and carry out their dream trips while I continue to do the same for myself.

On February 13 I completed training and received my certification. I was officially a travel agent!

Beyond the Open Door Travel Company logo

Choosing a Name

I love naming things. Coming up with a name for my new travel company proved a bit challenging, as I needed one not already in use.

After creating a list of possible names and playing with words, I came up with one that so perfectly aligns with who I am and what I’m doing.

Beyond

Beyond is a powerful word for me. Two blogs have carried that word as part of their names including this current blog, Cindy Goes Beyond.

The simple definition of beyond is “to go farther”. I like what Michael A Singer writes about the word in is book The Untethered Soul:

“Ultimately, the word ‘beyond’ captures the true meaning of spirituality. In its most basic sense, going beyond means going past where you are. It means not staying in your current state. When you constantly go beyond yourself, there are no more limitations. There are no more boundaries. Limitations and boundaries only exist at the places where you stop going beyond. If you never stop, then you go beyond boundaries, beyond limitation, beyond the sense of a restricted self.”

The Open Door

And the open door was my symbol during 2015. For me it symbolizes an invitation to step through…and go on an adventure.

In the Lord of the Rings, Bilbo tells Frodo “It’s a dangerous business, going out your door. You step onto the road and if you don’t keep your feet, there’s no knowing where you might be swept off to.”

That quote captures the mystery, adventure and excitement of the open door.

To go Beyond the Open Door is to accept the invitation for adventure by going farther than you have gone before, both in your explorations and in your life…beyond your boundaries, limitations and self imposed restrictions. Travel is an incredible way to expand beliefs, experiences and viewpoints. It enlarges a person and encourages exploration, growth and thinking.

Beyond the Open Door Thirlestane Caslte — Beyond the Open Door – Thirlestane Castle’s open door.

I’ll Do the Work, You Pack Your Bags

I’ve been a travel agent for two months….and I’m loving this new journey. I’m still a blogger, content creator and real estate agent as well. I continue to learn, taking classes, getting designations and familiarizing myself with the travel business.

My first two bookings for clients are to Scotland, and that makes me smile! Plus I have other trips to plan for other clients. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.

This is my bio for my travel agent website:

Step beyond the open door…adventure awaits. Let me plan and secure your next travel adventure. I can assist you with all types of travel from solo adventures to family and group trips, domestic travels and international, Disney, cruises and travel packages. Have questions? Ask me. I’ll do the work. You pack your bags!

I’m delighted to answer your questions, help you create the trip of your dreams and make all the arrangements.

Adventure is calling! Where to next?

Beyond the Open Door doors — Beyond the Open Door Travel Company

Connect with me:

Beyond the Open Door Travel Facebook page

Instagram Beyond the Open Door

Beyond the Open Door Travel Agent Website

Where to Next Traveling Planning Form

March 28, 2023April 12, 2023

Tips for International Solo Travel

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

Have you wondered about solo travel?

I began my journey toward traveling alone by first enjoying getaway weekends on my own in nearby cities. Then I branched out, traveling solo domestically to cities in the US.

I long held the dream, however, of traveling solo to Scotland and other international destinations. Last December, that dream became reality with a trip, on my own, to Edinburgh, Scotland.

If you’ve dreamed of such an adventure, check out these tips for international solo travel.

Tips for International Solo Travel

For a smooth international solo trip, save this post or jot down these tips. And although it’s not listed as a tip below, examine your mindset first.

Some believe they could never travel alone, much less travel solo internationally. And if it’s not something you’d absolutely enjoy, don’t go. I believe there are so many wonderful reasons for experiencing at least one big solo adventure. However, this isn’t a “have to” experience. Solo travel falls into the “want to” category.

If it’s fear that holds you back though, or a feeling of incompetence, don’t let that stop you. Use these tips to create a trip you’ll never forget. You’ll not only have fun, you’ll come back different from the person who left. Solo travel allows you to see who you really are and how capable you are as well.

Plan, Plan, Plan

Before heading out on a solo international trip, plan. And then add to your plans. Do lots of research about your destination.

What’s the weather like? Temperatures? Sunrise and sunset times?
What clothes are appropriate for the season?
What currency is used? How does it compare to the US dollar?
Are there restaurants that fit your dietary needs? Make a list of them.
Which accommodations work best for your needs? What location is best?
What transportation do you require? Will you need a flight to get there? Should you rent a car, ride a bus or take a train once you arrive?
Is the destination easily walkable?
Are there activities you’ll enjoy there? Tours to book? Experiences to participate in? What do you MOST want to do while there? Make a list.

With your notes, you are ready to book flights, accommodations and a rental car, if needed.

Include in your planning notes checking your cell phone provider for an international plan. And contact your bank with your travel dates and locations so they won’t lock your account because of suspected fraud.

Finally, decide whether you can travel with a carryon, or if you need a larger suitcase. A practice packing before the trip can help you make decisions about what really needs to go!

Schedule Flights with Sufficient Layover Times

When scheduling flights to your international destination, make sure you have plenty of time during layovers for connecting flights. Allow at least an hour and a half for connections within the US. For the international flight, allow at least two to four hours. When traveling through huge airports, such as London Heathrow or JFK in New York, allow for extra time as well. You may need to move from terminal to terminal or take a shuttle to get to the proper gate.

You often go through security again, before boarding an international flight and customs when you arrive at your destination. And when you return to the US, you go through customs again. I never book a flight with a short layover time, to ensure I don’t miss a connecting flight.

Make sure your passport is with you at all times, along with your airline tickets. You can download scannable tickets on your phone or print out the tickets once you arrive at the airport.

Tips for International Solo Travel O'Hare Airport — Tips for International Solo Travel – give yourself time at airports, to get to connecting flight. Shuttling to a different terminal at O’Hare Airport, Chicago.

Familiarize Yourself with Your Destination

Once you know where your accommodations are located, what restaurants you’d like to try and which activities you want to experience, turn to maps. Use Google maps or a paper version to really get to know the area you’ll be in.

This is important because even if the destination is a new one to you, studying maps, plotting out routes and locating sites of interests brings familiarity when you actually get there. You won’t be surprised to find the little shop you planned to walk to is 10 miles away. Instead, you’ll have an idea of the layout of the area and ways to get to where you want to go.

I use online maps. And I travel with a fold up map of the city I’m visiting. I’ll mark locations I want to visit, find the neighborhood grocery market and trace routes on the map. Every evening I study the map for the next day’s activities and plans. Plus I carry my travel notebook with me, with all my notes in it.

Book Activities in Advance

Before traveling, check to see if the activities and experiences you desire are available for booking online. This saves time and prevents disappointment.

I almost missed my beautiful afternoon tea experience in Edinburgh in December because I didn’t realize the restaurant would book up so far out. If an experience is important to you, do deep research on it and book accordingly.

Many locations offer history and ghost tours that can easily be booked online. And often pre-booked tours are cheaper when reserved and paid for in advance.

Tips for International Solo Travel tea time — Tips for International Solo Travel – book tours and activities in advance.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

While out exploring, stay aware of your surroundings at all times. However, keep fear in check. This tip isn’t meant as a warning. It’s more about raising your awareness.

Watch people. Stay near people, without necessarily joining their group. Don’t enter any area that looks or feels unsafe such as a dark alleyway. Use common sense. If something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable, move away and talk to a person that appears safe. Ask for help. Join a group. Enter a restaurant or museum.

I’ve never felt unsafe on any of my travels and I explore a lot. I don’t travel to sit in a hotel room or apartment. And fear isn’t going to stop me from enjoying adventures. It won’t stop you either, if you don’t let it.

Don’t Dress Like a Tourist

While this tip may sound funny, the point is to not stand out. In some cities or areas, pickpockets or people trying to sell overpriced items look for the tourists, the ones with cameras around their necks or their phones tucked into a back pocket.

When doing your planning research, look at images or use Google. How do the locals dress? What is considered touristy in that destination?

During my first trip to Scotland, my cousin and I asked that question. Answer: white sneakers, camera around the neck, graphic t shirts, tie dyed anything and not dressing appropriately for the weather were all giveaways.

Tips for International Solo Travel me — Tips for International Solo Travel – don’t dress like a tourist

Conceal Your Phone, Cash, Cards

Again, so as not to draw unwanted attention to yourself, conceal your phone, cash and credit or debit card. Why tempt anyone to snatch what’s yours?

If the weather is cool or cold, it’s easy to wear a small crossbody purse or travel bag beneath your zipped up coat. Tuck your phone securely into an inside pocket. Leave important docs and your passport back in your hotel room.

In warmer weather, consider only carrying a card and your phone. There are travel belts that can be worn beneath a shirt. At the least, wear a small crossbody bag as they aren’t as easy to snatch.

Continue Your Health Practices

Don’t toss aside your usual health practices while traveling solo. This isn’t the time to throw your body out of alignment by changing your routines and your diet.

If you follow a particular diet, continue to do so. If you take supplements at home, bring them with you. And if you do yoga every morning, do so during your trip.

A healthy body will support you, energy wise, while you explore, have fun and walk miles and miles. Support it with your continued health practices.

Tips for International Solo Travel stay healthy — Tips for International Solo Travel – continue your usual health practices

Stay in Touch with Someone Back Home

Have a contact person back home, either a family member or friend, and stay in touch with him or her.

Before traveling give that designated person your flight info, the name of your accommodations plus a phone number for there and a general idea of your expected itinerary.

Check in at least once a day, to reassure him or her that you are fine and having so much fun, if fun is your goal! And send some photos too so that person can share in your joy.

Have Fun

Whatever your intention for your solo trip, do that. Have fun. Relax by a pool. Explore a city. Visit museums. Eat at different restaurants. Make unforgettable memories.

Remember why you chose to take this particular trip and do all the things you want to do so that you don’t take home any regrets. Buy the memento. Take more photos than you think you need. Stay open to possibilities and opportunities.

And remember to express gratitude for the adventure and thank yourself for your courage and boldness in going solo. You’ll discover that you are so capable.

Where to Next?

I hope these tips are helpful! They are born from my own experiences.

So where to next for a solo adventure, for me?

I have lots of solo trips I want to experience: ocean cruise, European river cruise, travel by rail across a country or a continent, historical cities in the US and many destinations I’d like to visit on my own.

Where to next, for you? Have you experienced a solo adventure yet? Do you want to?

If I can assist you, I’d love to! I’ve discovered that I REALLY love planning a dream trip and then experiencing it. So much so, in fact, that I recently became a travel agent so that I can help others plan their amazing trips.

Contact me if I can offer my expertise in helping you create that dream trip…solo, with family or friends or a group. Click my links below for more info.

Beyond the Open Door Travel website

Where to Next Form

March 13, 2023

Touring Mary King’s Close

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my Disclosure Policy for details.

Like snapping photos from the Vennel and walking along Circus Lane, it took four visits to Edinburgh to do this activity…touring Mary King’s Close.

On my first visit, my cousins and I toured underground vaults instead and didn’t make it to Mary King’s Close.

Two visits ago, while in Scotland with my mom, sisters and niece, we tried to book a tour of this famous close. They were booked up beyond our stay date.

Last visit, my sister and I didn’t even try. We stayed busy with the Maitland Clan Gathering.

This trip, I felt determined to finally see what this popular attraction on the Royal Mile is all about. I’m glad I did!

What is a Close?

Closes are narrow covered alleyways that branch off the Royal Mile. The city of Edinburgh is built on an extinct volcanic, with the Mile moving down the spine of rock. It’s a wide, beautiful street.

When the city first grew, beyond the cluster of small houses near the castle, closes and wynds fell away from the Mile, connecting the main thoroughfare with other sections of town. Businesses and tenements, as tall as eight stories, sprang up along these narrow closes.

All classes of citizens worked and lived in these stone townhouses. The wealthy occupied the top stories while merchants lived and worked in the middle levels. The poorest in the city lived at ground level, where sewage and waste, mud and muck were real problems.

Touring Mary King's Close barries close — Barrie’s Close is a good example of a close that still exists in Edinburgh today.

Who Was Mary King?

Closes were often named for the activities along that lane. Bread was baked in Bakehouse Close. Lawyers lived and worked along Advocate’s Close.

And some closes bore the names of influential people who lived there.

Mary King was born near the end of the 1500s. Her marriage to Thomas Nemo is recorded in 1616 and together they had four children. Thomas died in 1629, leaving Mary to raise their four offspring alone. She moved her young family into what was known then as Alexander King’s Close or simply, King’s Close.

After Alexander King died…he was not related to Mary at all…and his heir did nothing with the property or close, the name gradually changed to Mary King’s Close.

She became a merchant, to support her family, selling fine fabrics and sewing garments for others. Mary now occupied a house near the top of the close. She also rented a small shop on High Street, the upper section of the Royal Mile…a very desirable location, so we know she did well.

When Mary died in 1644 she left a will. Her belongings included silver spoons, gold rings, furniture, cushions and pillows, fabric, sewing supplies, velvet trousers, bedsheets, cloth napkins, wine and beer, tartan plaids and ruffs.

Touring Mary King's Close home — Touring Mary King’s Close – an illustration of a home in the close, from the Mary King’s Close tour book

A Foul Pestilence Strikes

Three months after Mary’s death, plague erupted across the city. Outbreaks were common during this time in history, with the sickness carried from port to port on ships. Flea infested rats inhabited those ships and those tiny parasitic insects carried the plague.

This pestilence became the last great plague outbreak in Scotland. The city elected a plague doctor to try and control the spread of the disease. Wealthy city dwellers fled to the country to escape however the poor and working class had no where to go. And in their crowded and unsanitary living conditions, many died.

Contrary to myths, the sick inhabitants of Mary King’s Close and the other closes were not walled up to starve to death. The city did what it could to care for people, creating quarantine houses and providing families with food and drink.

It’s estimated that at least a fifth of Edinburgh’s citizens died during this plague. Some push that estimate closer to two-thirds. Councilmen died as well. Merchants and bankers and children died. Doctors dressed in long coats and gloves and wore bird shaped masks with herbs in the beak portion for protection. And yet, doctors died too until the disease finally ran its course.

Mary King's Close book — No photos are allowed while touring Mary King’s Close. I purchased this book to help me remember all that I learned and for the photos in the book.

Hidden Below

By the 1750s, many of the closes needed repairs. Rather than improve the area, the city built an enclosed building over several closes, including Mary King’s, in hopes that merchants would move their businesses there.

The plan didn’t work. People preferred living and working in the now covered over closes. By 1850 most of Mary King’s Close lay in ruins. One family chose to stay in the close, operating a saw shop and living there. The city began buying up the property that included the hidden closes and finally, in 1930, that last family was bought out.

During World War II, Mary King’s Close became an air raid shelter. Although it was used infrequently, there’s still a generator and equipment in one of the below ground rooms of the close.

Air raid shelter during WWII — Touring Mary King’s Close – it became an air raid shelter during WWII. Photo from the tour book.

The Ghosts of Mary King’s Close

Of course such a historical and ancient place houses a few ghosts. After the plague residents of Mary King’s reported ghosts of the unfortunate dead roaming the closes.

One story published in Edinburgh in 1685 told of a haunting in a couple’s home in Mary King’s Close. Apparently they were terrorized by a disembodied, floating head, a small child and a variety of spooky creatures. A few short weeks later, after reporting the haunting, the husband died.

A worried looking man and a woman dressed in black are still seen today, wandering the closes. Is the woman Mary?

And the most famous ghost in the close is Annie. Years ago, a Japanese physic found a room off of Alan’s Close troubling. She reported the ghostly presence of a sad little girl named Annie, who couldn’t find her family. And the wee girl had lost her doll as well. The physic had a doll brought into the room for Annie, to keep her company. Today that somber room is full of dolls, stuffed animals and toys as visitors from around the world bring Annie gifts, to show her love and respect.

Annie's Room — Annie’s room, full of dolls. Photo from the tour book.

My Experience Touring Mary King’s Close

I enjoyed this delightful, educational tour. First, I deeply appreciate the ongoing research being done at Mary King’s Close. As the researchers learn more about the inhabitants of the close, and the city itself, they flesh out the stories told.

And second, the tour is fun. Costumed tour guides lead visitors through the labyrinth of underground closes. Although the pathways and rooms are well lit, the floor is uneven in places and there are quite a few stairs to climb up and down. Walk with care.

Displays set up in rooms and computerized presentations make this tour unique and interesting. I learned a great deal about life during Edinburgh’s younger years.

As an intuitive, I felt that familiar tingle of energy across my back and scalp several times. And when we entered the home that contains Annie’s room, I felt a very strong presence there before I realized where we were. There is sadness and grief in Annie’s room, in spite of all of the dolls and toys.

If you plan on touring Mary King’s Close, book online HERE or purchase tickets as soon as you arrive in the city. It’s likely you’ll have to book a day or two in advance. Tour groups are purposefully small because those rooms and tunnels are small with low ceilings in many areas.

I highly recommend a tour of Mary King’s Close. Would you visit?