Lisa Niver's Blog: We Said Go Travel, page 7

Exploring Antarctica���s Penguins with Quark Expeditions

Thank you to Quark Expeditions for making my dream of not only stepping on my seventh continent but also hula-hooping there come true. I sailed south of the Antarctic circle on Quark Ultramarine with Fabrice Genevois, the Penguinologist Who Brings Antarctica to Life!

For over three decades, Fabrice Genevois has been sharing his deep passion for penguins, seabirds, and the polar regions with travelers from around the world. As a French expedition guide, marine biology presenter, and ornithology expert, Fabrice has spent 31 years with Quark Expeditions, making him one of the most experienced and engaging voices in Antarctic exploration. His knowledge, combined with his ability to captivate audiences, makes him an unforgettable part of any voyage to the White Continent.

WATCH MY INTERVIEW with FABRICE: A Life Dedicated to Penguins

Fabrice has been studying penguins since 1987, earning his PhD in ornithology with a focus on these fascinating creatures. His love for penguins extends beyond research���he is also an accomplished author, having written multiple books, including a coffee table photo book, a bird identification guide, and even a children’s book series based on a true story from Antarctica about Toby the Polar Pig. His book Penguins 101 is particularly useful for travelers, offering a Q&A-style introduction to these charismatic birds, helping visitors prepare for their expedition and understand what they���re seeing in the field.

Bringing Penguins to Life Onboard and Onshore

Aboard the Quark Expeditions��� Ultramarine, Fabrice introduced passengers to the three species of penguins they would encounter���Chinstrap, Gentoo, and Ad��lie. Of these, the Ad��lie is the most iconic, as it is found only in Antarctica. Not every expedition gets to see their colonies, as it depends on conditions, making every sighting a privilege.

His lectures onboard are both informative and entertaining, offering insights into penguin behavior and why people find them so mesmerizing. ���Penguins are a reflection of ourselves,��� he explains. ���They are bipedal, social, they argue, they cheat, and they make us smile.��� Whether watching them nest, care for their chicks, or take their first swim, every stage of their life is captivating.

Fabrice also dispels common misconceptions about penguins, explaining their evolutionary journey. They are birds, despite having lost the ability to fly���something that actually benefits them, as it allows them to be stronger swimmers. He describes how their feathers have adapted to reduce drag underwater, and early explorers thought they were reptiles. ���Penguins are living dinosaurs, just like all birds,��� he says.

The Ultimate Antarctic Experience with Quark Expeditions

What sets Quark Expeditions apart, according to Fabrice, is the way they connect the learning experience onboard with what passengers see onshore. After hearing about penguin behavior in a lecture, guests can walk up to a colony and immediately recognize what���s happening. This deepens the experience, making it far more than just sightseeing���it���s about truly understanding and appreciating the ecosystem.

When asked what travelers can do to help protect penguins, Fabrice highlights the threats faced by species outside of Antarctica, particularly in South Africa, where oil spills and human encroachment have put African penguins at risk. While Antarctic penguins are relatively safe due to their remote habitat, supporting conservation efforts and being mindful of our environmental impact is crucial.

A True Polar Explorer

Fabrice doesn���t just specialize in Antarctica���he also guides expeditions in the Arctic, including Greenland and Svalbard, where he introduces travelers to another world of seabirds, including puffins. His knowledge spans both polar regions, making him a true ambassador for these fragile environments.

When asked about his own bucket list, Fabrice is ready to return to the sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand to see the crested penguins and the Rockhopper at the National Parks.

An Unforgettable Encounter

Being onboard with Fabrice was a true privilege. His passion and depth of knowledge made every landing more meaningful, and his approachable nature meant guests could always ask him questions and learn more. One of the best aspects of a Quark Expeditions journey is that you can chat with all the guides and lecturers, making the experience incredibly personal.

And, of course, I���ll never forget the moment Fabrice helped me film myself hula-hooping at the southernmost post office in the world���Damoy Point! It was a full-circle moment in more ways than one, as I reflected on this incredible journey to my seventh continent.

Antarctica is extraordinary, but it���s people like Fabrice Genevois who make it truly unforgettable.

What is it like to travel to Antarctica? 60+ videos to show you my expedition with penguins, seals, whales, SUP and my polar plunge!

FABRICE GENEVOIS: Penguinologist, French Expedition Guide, Marine Biology Presenter, Ornithology Presenter: 30 years with Quark Expeditions since 1993

Fabrice is a French biologist with a special interest in wildlife of the Polar Regions. As an expert in ornithology, he firmly believes that birds are an inexhaustible source of wonder as well as a great excuse to travel.

His experience in the Polar Regions began in 1989, when he spent 18 months working as a field researcher of seabirds and marine mammals on the remote, subantarctic Kerguelen Islands. His work on the breeding behavior of the blue petrel led to the publication of several scientific papers on pair formation and mate choice in the context of sexual selection. In the early 90s, he began working as a field guide and lecturer on Quark Expeditions icebreakers, leading trips for bird lovers to the Antarctic Peninsula, the Weddell and the Ross seas in Antarctica, as well as the famous Northeast and Northwest passages in the high Arctic. Fabrice is the author of ���The Wildlife of the Polar Regions���, and co-author of the ���Field guide to the Birds and Mammals of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean���. More recently, he published two illustrated books on Seabird Biology and Ecology. His last book deals with the Ecology of Sea Ice and the consequences of sea ice decline in the context of climate change.

When he is not traveling in the Polar Regions, Fabrice enjoys riding his horses in the countryside of central France and conducts field research on birds with the Museum of Natural History in Paris.

My Jet Set TV segment about our expedition:

The post Exploring Antarctica���s Penguins with Quark Expeditions appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

How To Prepare For A Long Cruise Ship Journey

Pexels – CC0 License Photo by S��n B���m

One of the main appeals of heading on a long cruise ship vacation is that everything is taken care of for you. For example, many of the meals in some of the restaurants will be included in an all-inclusive package. You don���t have to worry about cleaning your self-catered residence like you might have in past vacations. There���s no AirBNB host to worry about, nor do you even have to worry about travel except for heading to the dock where you���re to launch from.

As such, it���s a pretty convenient and comfortable vacation to head on. Maybe you���ll experience multiple vacations at once, which can be a lovely outcome to enjoy. But that���s not to say avoiding preparation entirely is wise. As any cruise ship accident attorney can tell you, it���s always important to be aware and to have the right preparations in place.

So, in this post, we���ll discuss some of the most pressing tips. Please consider:

Make Copies Of Important Docs & Keep Them In Separate Spots

It might sound simple, but this one���s saved more than a few travelers from unnecessary stress. Passports, ID, insurance details, cruise bookings, visas and anything else you deem important counts, just make sure you���ve got copies. Printed ones can live in your luggage or tucked into a travel wallet, and digital scans can be stored on your phone or email. It���s the kind of thing you don���t realise you need until something���s gone missing and you���re stuck explaining yourself at a reception desk. Unfortunately, every traveler has a story like this, no matter how convenient a cruise can seem, it may happen there too.

As such, having a few backups in different places doesn���t take much time to set up, and the peace of mind it gives you once you���re actually travelling can be surprisingly comforting.

Don���t Skip The Medical Forms, Even If You Feel Fine

Every cruise line will have its own process for checking medical needs or history, and it���s worth filling those out thoroughly, not just quickly ticking boxes. They���re not just for people who have big ongoing health issues either, as these forms can also help the onboard crew respond quickly if anything comes up while you���re at sea. Say if you have a minor skin condition that only has flair ups in somewhat unique circumstances, well, being exposed to sea air for weeks doesn���t make that less likely.

It���s also a good idea to bring any essential medications with you in labelled packaging, ideally with a copy of your prescription or doctor���s note in case airport security or cruise staff need to check. Sure, no one wants to think about what would happen in an emergency, but it���s good to know you���ve made it as easy as possible to be looked after properly.

Try To Pack For Both Relaxation & Unexpected Situations

Cruises can feel like floating resorts, and in many ways, they are. But they���re also ships out at sea, subject to weather, occasional itinerary changes, and the usual travel unpredictability. So while the flip-flops and nice dinner clothes are important, so is a light rain jacket, some good walking shoes for shore excursions, and something to keep yourself entertained if a port visit gets canceled and you���re staying onboard. You���ll thank yourself if you prepare this way.

With this advice, we hope you can more easily prepare for that cruise journey. Have fun!

The post How To Prepare For A Long Cruise Ship Journey appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Woman’s World: Best Travel Deals at Costco

Thank you Anna Traver for including me in your Woman’s World article, “How to Book Your Next Vacation Through Costco���The Best Travel Deals and Perks Explained. Your guide to Costco���s best travel deals, perks and expert-backed tips for booking the perfect vacation!“

How to Book Your Next Vacation Through Costco���The Best Travel Deals and Perks Explained

Your guide to Costco���s best travel deals, perks and expert-backed tips for booking the perfect vacation!

By Anna Traver February 10, 2025

It���s no secret that Costco can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars a year on groceries, household items and even clothing and beauty products. The wholesale chain is known for giving customers more bang for their buck, as many of their products are offered in bulk for an affordable price, saving you money in the long run. And while this may not be news to you, you may not know that you can also save hundreds on your next vacation by booking your travel through Costco. We all deserve a vacation, but that doesn���t mean we have to break the bank to make it happen. Here, we share a travel expert���s thoughts on Costco Travel and how to reap its benefits.

What is Costco Travel?

Costco truly does offer it all, and their travel deals are no exception. But don���t just take our word for it: We spoke to travel expert Lisa Niver, an award-winning author, adventurer and international speaker who has explored all seven continents and over 100 countries.

���I recommend booking travel through Costco because it delivers an experience that���s as reliable and rewarding as your weekly shopping run,��� says Niver. ���Just as I trust the Kirkland brand���Costco���s in-house brand���for my groceries, I trust Costco Travel for curated, exclusive deals that come with thoughtful perks. From the extra onboard credits on cruises to unexpected upgrades at resorts, every detail is designed to transform your trip into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.���

Costco Travel feels a little like a travel agent���without the fee. They have a range of resorts, cruises, excursions and more to choose from that they can help you book and save you money on and/or offer extra perks���and you can do it all online, too.

Top benefits of booking through Costco Travel

If you���re going to spend your hard-earned money on a vacation, you might as well try to get all of the perks out of it that you can���that���s where Costco holds an advantage. While specific offerings and deals change, there are a few general categories that Niver says makes booking through Costco Travel worth the price of membership:

1. Exclusive perks & free upgradeswsfurlan/Getty

Costco Travel offers perks and benefits when you book through them that you wouldn���t get if you just booked through a resort���s website or airline���s website���these range from excursion credits to a free extra night and even digital Costco shop cards.

2. Best vacation packages through Costco Travel

Niver has been a huge fan of Costco���s land packages ever since a friend of hers had a great experience booking ���London and Paris On Your Own,��� which included transfers from the airport to the hotel, an excursion credit in London and train tickets from London to Paris���in business class, and she was able to tailor the tour to make sure she hit the spots she wanted to see. ���I was very impressed and have recommended Costco Travel ever since,��� Niver says.

3. Costco Travel deals on cruises

Niver���s also a fan of their cruise line offerings, as they���re ���loaded with onboard credits, specialty dining perks and exclusive amenities that turn a standard journey into a luxurious escapade.���

And if you���re looking to book your flight, stay and transportation all in one easy, hassle-free place, Costco Travel is the way to do it. ���The bundled packages that include flights, hotels and car rentals are as effortless as filling your cart with Costco���s best finds,��� affirms Niver.

Things to know before booking through Costco Travel

First and foremost, you���ll need a Costco membership to book the Costco Travel offerings, which will also save you money on all of Costco���s offerings���from cars to groceries, too.

Costco���s annual membership fees are $65 a year for Gold Star Membership and $130 a year for Executive Membership, which includes all Gold Star benefits plus a 2 percent annual reward on eligible Costco purchases and additional perks on select Costco services.

Each membership includes a free Household Card for one additional person aged 16 or older living at the same address.

Further, Niver recommends planning ahead while keeping your eyes open. ���Booking early can secure you the best rates,��� she says. ���Yet, sometimes those last-minute deals can surprise you with irresistible offers.��� To help you make sure you have your eyes open, Niver recommends setting up alerts through email updates.

Of course, it���s always good to make comparisons to other travel booking agencies and websites to make sure you���re getting the best deal possible.

Lastly, ���Don���t just take the standard hotel offered. Look at all of the options and that can reduce the price dramatically while still allowing you to stay at a quality hotel,��� says Niver.

See the article on Woman’s World FACEBOOK

Find the article on Woman’s World TWITTER

Learn how to book your next vacation through @Costco Travel and unlock exclusive deals, savings and VIP perks you can't get anywhere else. https://t.co/5tT33EkOnw

— Woman's World Magazine (@WomansWorldUS) February 11, 2025

PHOTOS from the article:

The post Woman’s World: Best Travel Deals at Costco appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Sailing into the Future: MSC���s New Terminal

Star Power, Sea Power & Seamless Boarding: My First MSC Cruise Aboard World America

I���m Miami-bound ��� not just for SeaTrade Cruise Global, the epicenter of the cruise industry this week ��� but for something even more personal: my first time aboard an MSC Cruises ship. And not just any ship ��� I���ll be stepping onto the brand-new MSC World America, MSC���s new flagship and a bold statement in family-friendly mega cruising.

And yes, Drew Barrymore is officially the godmother. I mean, how���s that for a welcome?

But before I even set foot on the ship, I get to experience something that���s changing the game: MSC���s brand-new cruise terminal at Port Miami, now the world���s largest and most advanced. Imagine 492,678 square feet of soaring glass walls, a 6-level garage, and biometric check-in that makes security feel like magic ��� no lines, no stress, just a smooth scan of your face and a flash of your passport.

Last year I went on the media preview aboard Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, ��� a floating city the size of an aircraft carrier ��� I had to wonder: how does MSC���s newest offering compare?

MSC World America is part of the World Class series, which includes MSC World Europa, and it brings an international flair to North American cruising, blending European design with kid-friendly innovation and a dose of ocean-inspired glam. It���s big, yes ��� capable of carrying 6,762 passengers ��� but what makes it special is the flow: thoughtfully designed spaces for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Let���s Talk Terminal First���

Designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure, MSC���s new terminal can process a staggering 36,000 guests per day. It���s not just for MSC Cruises either ��� Explora Journeys, MSC���s ultra-luxury brand, will also call this home. If World America is about fun and family, Explora is about indulgence and intimacy. I had a chance to preview their vibe at earlier events, and it���s giving boutique hotel at sea ��� think curated experiences, immersive cuisine, and suites that feel more like sanctuaries.

Back at the terminal, tech takes center stage. Guests who���ve pre-checked in can:

Drop luggage in the parking garage via smart scannersBreeze through 18 biometric face pods and 20 security lanesRelax in sun-drenched lounges or, for MSC Yacht Club guests, enjoy exclusive pre-boarding cocktails and canap��s

Even the artwork is next-level: a 10,816-square-foot digital installation on the exterior reflects real-time NOAA ocean data, turning the building itself into a living, breathing tribute to the sea.

LEGO Records & Caribbean Dreams

MSC isn���t just thinking big ��� it���s thinking playful. Just this week, they broke a Guinness World Record for the longest line of LEGO cruise ships (yes, really). It’s a fun, family-forward moment that aligns perfectly with World America���s multi-gen vibe.

Our inaugural sailing will take us to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC���s private island in the Bahamas ��� and, yes, it���ll be my first time there too. I���ve heard whispers of bioluminescence, soft white sand, and a focus on eco-restoration, and I���m excited to explore it all. Ocean Cay isn���t just another private island ��� it���s part of MSC���s broader commitment to marine conservation, and I can���t wait to see it for myself.

And Then There���s Drew���

The cherry on top of this ship-side celebration? Drew Barrymore. As godmother of MSC World America, she���ll be officially naming the ship at a special ceremony this week. There���s something so right about this choice ��� Drew���s energy is joyful, approachable, a little glam and a little grounded. It mirrors the MSC vibe: elegant, international, and ready to make memories.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MSC Cruises US (@msccruises.us)

Final Boarding Thoughts���

MSC Cruises may be newer to the North American cruise scene, but with 23 ships sailing to 300+ destinations, a luxury spinoff in Explora Journeys, and now the most advanced terminal in the world, they���re not just catching up ��� they���re leading the charge into the future of cruising.

And I���m thrilled to be on board from the beginning.

Stay tuned for a full report from onboard MSC World America ��� including top surprises, behind-the-scenes exclusives, and (yes) a firsthand look at Ocean Cay���s crystal-clear waters.

MSC GROUP���S CRUISE DIVISION INAUGURATES THE WORLD���S LARGEST CRUISE TERMINAL IN MIAMI, April 5, 2025

The post Sailing into the Future: MSC���s New Terminal appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Visit New Orleans with a Local

By Christina Daves

When I visited New Orleans in my 20s, it was all about Bourbon Street and bar hopping. Now, approaching 60, we had a wonderful trip experiencing the city from a local’s perspective. My best friend Jen, a New Orleans native, organized a St. Patrick���s Day long weekend trip for our families, allowing us to share her city with our twenty-something adult kids.

If you go for St. Patrick���s Day, check out a local favorite, the Metairie Parade. This year, the parade lasted 4.5 hours with floats, bands, and dancers. Get ready to catch goodies as the people on the floats toss beads, stuffed animals, toys, and even vegetables (be wary of the cabbage��� that hurts when it hits you.)

Here is a list of local must-dos in New Orleans:

The French Quarter remains a must-visit, but I’d recommend exploring it during the day. You can visit the outdoor market featuring handcrafted artisans, pop into artist galleries, and explore local shops. A stop at Caf�� Du Monde for beignets and coffee is a must. Don’t forget to capture photos with the stunning St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square behind you. A local muffuletta is a must-try; Central Grocery is renowned for this Italian sandwich topped with olive salad on special sesame-seeded muffuletta bread.

Pat O’Brien’s, though a bit touristy, offers the iconic hurricane cocktail���be careful, as they’re potent. As a local advised us: a Category 1 hurricane is okay, but at Category 5, you’d better evacuate.

If you’re a coffee enthusiast, check out PJ’s Coffee House���a local favorite.���

Po’boys are a New Orleans staple. Popular fillings include fried shrimp, fried oysters, and roast beef, but options like smoked sausage, hot sausage, and catfish are also available. A “po’boy” essentially means “sandwich” in New Orleans. When asked if you want it “dressed,” it means adding mayonnaise, lettuce, and pickles. Some restaurants include cheese and tomato with “dressed,” so it’s good to ask how they do it. Once again, it’s the bread that makes it delicious. Domilise’s is a local tradition for po’boys. It’s been around since the 1930s and is a favorite of the famous NFL Manning brothers, who grew up around the corner.

Magazine Street runs six miles through the city and is home to great shopping.���

New Orleans is one of only two cities in the country with a legacy streetcar system. This is a great way to get around. You can buy a one-way pass, an all-day pass, or a multi-day pass. The St. Charles Streetcar Line operates 24 hours a day, with frequent service during the day and hourly from midnight to 6 a.m. It runs from South Carrollton and South Claiborne Avenues to Canal Street, and you can hop on and off as you like. ���

At the corner of South Carrollton and St. Charles Avenue is another local staple, Camellia Grill. It’s been there since 1946. It’s a counter-service diner with the best hamburger I’ve ever had. Make sure you save room for dessert, as they are known for their pies. They warm their pies right there on the grill where they cook the burgers, and the flavors are like nothing you’ve had before. The pecan pie is my favorite, topped with a heaping scoop of Blue Bell vanilla ice cream. If there’s any way you have room for more, their milkshakes are homemade and absolutely delicious!���

[image error]

After dinner, you can make your way over to another staple that has been there for over 40 years, Cooter Brown’s. It’s a ���dive bar��� with cool metal artwork of Hollywood icons all around the bar, from Prince to Lucy to Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe. One of the things I love about the old, local places around New Orleans is their house wine is good! Everywhere we went, I could get a nice glass of wine versus what I refer to as “headache” wine, which is usually what you find at establishments like these.���

A few more local restaurant staples in New Orleans are:

R&O’s ��� Known for its seafood and po’boys, this restaurant has been serving locals and tourists alike for decades.���Parasol’s ��� Known for their roast beef po���boy, they also host a huge block party on St. Patrick’s Day, full of music, dancing, and, of course, green beer.���Frankie & Johnny’s ��� My friend Jen grew up with the original owner. This is where I had one of my favorite po’boys���a grilled shrimp one. It was an interesting twist on the fried shrimp, and it was delicious!��� Onion rings are a regular on most menus, and we had our fair share. Does this count as a vegetable?Commanders Palace ��� This is a legendary New Orleans restaurant located in the Garden District. Established in 1893, it has become a cornerstone of the city���s culinary scene and helped launch the careers of celebrated chefs like Emeril Lagasse. Dining at Commander’s Palace is more than a meal���it’s an experience. Ask to be seated in the garden. You won���t regret it!

Last but not least, take some time to walk the Garden District. The homes are incredibly beautiful, and the streets are serene with lush bushes, trees, and flowers.

If you want a fun trip with your adult children, give New Orleans a try. It offers a rich array of experiences, mixing history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new ones, the city’s charm will captivate you.���

Christina Daves is a publicity strategist, on-aiir lifestyle expert, and the host of the award-winning podcast, Living Ageless and Bold, which is now a regular television segment on local CBS. She is passionate about celebrating women over 50 and creating content to help them live their next chapter to the fullest.

The post Visit New Orleans with a Local appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

My Media Journey on Icon of the Seas

From TV screens to magazine pages and multiple reels, I had the incredible opportunity to showcase Royal Caribbean���s Icon of the Seas across multiple platforms. Whether it was sharing my insights on The Jet Set TV, REACH TV, filming a hooping video on board or seeing my work in print in Pasadena Magazine, covering inaugural Icon of the Seas cruise was an honor. I worked for Royal Caribbean International on Rhapsody of the Seas as Youth Staff decades ago and I loved it.

Royal Caribbean debuts its newest ship, Icon of the Seas

A huge thank you to The Jet Set TV and hosts Nikki Noya & Bobby Laurie for featuring my take on Icon of the Seas. This article is a celebration of the media moments that brought this ship���s story to life.

Thank you to the INCREDIBLE & ICONIC production team — Option A Group, Lisa Williams, Sam Harris, Jason Mangini and Patrick Gruss for this amazing segment.

KTLA TV Los Angeles: Live from LA Travel Show Feb 2024 about Icon of the SeasSee more of my Iconic adventures in these videos:What an honor to have two print stories in Pasadena Magazine in the May and June 2024 issue

What an honor to have two print stories in Pasadena Magazine in the May and June 2024 issue. Read my bio on the contributor page and enjoy my 2-page story about the brand new Royal Caribbean ship, Icon of the Seas. ���Whatever Floats Your Boat��� online and “Pesto Takes Flight” online! I loved sharing my travel stories in Pasadena Magazine.

Pasadena Magazine: in print and online: Whatever Floats Your Boat

Embarking on my journey in Miami, Florida aboard the Icon of the Seas was not just an adventure; it was a homecoming. Having previously worked at Royal Caribbean on the Rhapsody of the Seas sailing through the Caribbean islands, stepping back on board felt like returning to a familiar embrace, albeit one that had evolved into something grander and more extraordinary.

With eight distinct neighborhoods, there was something for everyone, from relaxing on Chill Island’s seven pools and nine whirlpools providing the perfect spot for leisurely afternoons in the sun, to strolling the shops at the two-story Royal Promenade, or exploring Thrill Island’s Category 6 waterpark with heart-pounding thrills for the more adventurous souls with six waterslides including Frightening Bolt, Pressure Drop and Hurricane Hunter. Daredevils like me could walk the plank at Crown’s Edge, dangling 154 feet above the sea, scramble up the Adrenaline Peak rock climbing wall, surf the flow rider or putt-putt on the Lost Dunes mini-golf course.

Evening entertainment included singing along with Dueling Pianos or Spotlight karaoke, and mesmerizing performances with traditional Broadway-style shows in the Royal Theater as well as graceful figure skaters at Absolute Zero and the spellbinding Olympic high divers in the water-filled AquaTheater.

In the heart of the ship lay Central Park, a lush oasis with over 30,000 plants offering a peaceful respite and plenty of dining options, like the beloved Bubbles bar, the first walk up champagne bar, and Izumi sushi and hibachi restaurant. You could even take an interior balcony room that overlooks the vibrant tapestry of greenery which is 5 decks high.

The ship caters to diverse interests of passengers of all ages. For multigenerational groups, whether it was grandparents seeking adventure, parents looking for relaxation, or children eager to explore, everyone could find what they were looking for in the activities and the over 40 locations to eat and drink. Make sure that the specialty milkshake bar, Desserted, is on your list. It was my favorite.

But it wasn’t just the onboard activities that impressed me. The attention to detail and innovation in every aspect of the ship’s design were truly remarkable. Swim & Tonic, the first swim-up bar at sea, allowed guests to enjoy their favorite cocktails without ever leaving the refreshing embrace of the pool. And for those seeking ultimate relaxation, the adults-only Hideaway area boasted the first suspended infinity pool at sea, offering breathtaking views and a sense of serenity unlike any other. Every feature was designed to enhance the guest experience and create lasting memories.

Every journey aboard the Icon of the Seas will include a Perfect Day at the tropical oasis and Royal Caribbean private island Coco Cay in the Bahamas���with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a host of excursions and activities, including Tailspin waterslides at Thrill Waterpark, lounging in a hammock beneath swaying palm trees at Oasis Lagoon, snorkeling among colorful coral reefs or enjoying the bar and music at the brand new adults-only area, Hideaway Beach.

The Surfside neighborhood onboard caters specifically to families with young children, offering specialty restaurants like Lemon Post with cocktails for adults and mocktails for kids as well as a bright carousel and child-friendly slide to create cherished memories amidst the excitement of the high seas.

The Icon of the Seas has twenty-eight types of accommodations from cozy cabins to luxurious suites so there is something to suit every taste and budget. I was particularly enamored with the Ultimate Family Townhouse, a three-story suite, complete with its own multi-level indoor slide, a wrap-around balcony with a private whirlpool, white picket fence and room to sleep 8. In the suite as you walk up the staircase, each stair makes a different musical sound, I might want that to turn that off but other than that it is bright, welcoming and unique.

But perhaps the most extraordinary aspect of the Icon of the Seas is its sheer size, larger than an aircraft carrier and the largest ship at sea which is also 24% more energy efficient than required standards today. It is the first ship for Royal Caribbean that can be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) and produces 93% of its fresh water. Despite its size, with many lounges full of cozy corners to listen to music, dine, and relax, you can find your favorite spot to watch the waves and hang with friends, new and old.

As I reflect on my time aboard the Icon of the Seas, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to revisit my roots in the cruise industry and witness firsthand how far it has come. It was more than just a voyage; it was a celebration of innovation and excellence that left me in awe. I carry with me the memories of a lifetime spent at sea and the promise of future adventures yet to come.

Lisa Niver is the author of the award-winning memoir, Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty. Niver is an award-winning travel expert who sailed the seven seas working for Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Renaissance for seven years and she loved being back on board learning about the newest ship for Pasadena Magazine.

Royal Caribbean debuts its newest ship, Icon of the Seas
Hula Hooping on the ICON of the SEAS

YES I did Hula Hoop on the ICON of the SEAS!
I loved being on the newest largest ship and it was so much fun to see it with my hoop.

Icon of the Seas segmentReach TV: Lisa Niver on WHERE NEXT? with Kelly BlancoReaders Digest: This Flight Attendant���s Hack Will Help You Navigate Your Next Stay

This tip would also work well on cruise ships. In early 2024, I sailed on the brand-new Royal Caribbean ship Icon of the Seas. It���s huge���like, bigger than an aircraft carrier huge. I once headed out of my cabin confidently in the wrong direction all the way down the hall, which, unfortunately for me, did not lead to the elevator. Then I remembered my secret cruise tip: Watch the room numbers. I paid attention to which room number was closest to the elevator.

Walk The Plank on ICON of the Seas at Crown���s Edge!

Would you #WalkThePlank at Crown’s Edge? I did 50 Dares before 50 and hanging 154 feet above the ocean definitely is going on my 60 by 60 list! It feels like part ropes course, part zip line and 100% #THRILL! You can swing over the sea day or night right next to Adrenaline Peak rock climbing, Lost Dunes mini golf and near the FlowRider and Category 6 waterpark–all part of Thrill Island on the brand new #Iconic @RoyalCaribbean #IconoftheSeas

Parade at the Royal Promenade on the ICON of the Seas! Get this party started

Let’s get this #party started in the two story Royal Promenade by The Pearl with a #parade. There are floor to ceiling ocean views and more than 15 restaurants and bars including Dueling Pianos, 1400 Lobby Bar and YUM! Giovanni’s Pizza!

Absolutely incredible diving in the AquaDome on ICON of the Seas

Absolutely incredible diving in the AquaDome. I loved the show! WOW! The Icon of the Seas is full of iconic moments from the different entertainment theaters with top athletes to the many different thrills, ways to chill and places to enjoy music, food, drinks.

Ready for high dives, lights, robots, water ballet and intense music? Meet me in the Aqua TheaterAbsolute Zero Skating show on Icon of the Seas

When you are on #vacation, do you like to see #shows? On the Icon of the Seas, you can watch #Broadway style shows in the Royal Theater, High #diving in the AquaTheater and top #skaters at Absolute Zero! I saw shows on ice and in the water in the same night! Here are some skating moments for YOU!

Ready to explore on Icon of the Seas?

Ready to explore on Icon of the Seas? There are nine whirlpools, eight neighborhoods, seven pools, six waterslides and over 40 places to sip and savor! Where will you begin? I LOVE all the statues and art.

Fireworks for Sailaway! Icon of the Seas

I always love to watch sailaway. It is one of my favorite things about cruising. AND! I love fireworks. So this combo was FANTASTIC! The Icon of the Seas knows how to start the #PARTY!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lisa Niver (@lisaniver)

My photo shoot onboard Icon of the Seas

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lisa Niver (@lisaniver)

Tweet from Pasadena Magazine about my print story about Icon of the Seashttps://twitter.com/PasadenaMag/statu...

The post My Media Journey on Icon of the Seas appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

The Modern Writer���s Desk: How Travel and Tech Power the Creative Journey

For centuries, the writer���s desk has served as a sacred, solitary space. Virginia Woolf had hers in a garden room, Roald Dahl wrote in a shed lined with blankets, and Mark Twain preferred his study tucked away from the bustle of family life. These iconic desks were fixed, personal, and deeply tied to a sense of place.

Fast forward to 2025, and the modern writer���s desk is everywhere���and nowhere. It���s no longer confined to a single wooden table in a quiet room. Today���s writers carry their desk in their backpack, in their phone, even in their pocket. The rise of digital tools and portable devices means that a writer���s workspace can be a caf�� in Paris, a window seat on a cross-country train, or a shaded bench in a public park.

This transformation hasn���t just changed where we write; it���s changed how we write. From staying connected to a global writing community to using apps that track every word typed, the tools of the trade have become leaner, smarter, and more mobile. Travel, once seen as a distraction, is now a wellspring of inspiration, offering fresh perspectives and mental space. And for those who travel often, or dream of it, the digital desk is what makes writing on the go not only possible but creatively enriching. Let���s unpack what this portable, tech-savvy desk looks like in practice.

Unsplash – CC0 License

Writing Device: Light, Portable, Powerful

Your main writing device is the foundation of your digital desk. In 2025, laptops remain the most common tool, but they���re no longer the only choice. Lightweight, long-battery devices like the MacBook Air or Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon continue to be writer favorites because they balance power with portability.

But a growing number of writers are turning to smart typewriters like the Freewrite Traveler. This minimalist, distraction-free tool is designed specifically for writing anywhere���a beach, a train, or your hotel bed. It syncs with cloud storage, so you can later edit your work on a laptop. It���s not a replacement for your primary machine, but it���s become a crucial part of the modern travel writer���s toolkit.

Having a lightweight, focused device means you can write when inspiration strikes���without being tethered to a desk. And when you���re on the road, that freedom is everything.

Writer Tools: Boosting Productivity Digitally

The rise of productivity apps has completely transformed the creative process. Writers today rely on digital tools for everything from outlining to final edits. Where do you start? This curated list of top 30 tools for writers is heaven-sent for any new writer. There���s no denying that finding the right app stack makes all the difference.

Naturally, Scrivener remains a favorite for plotting novels or managing complex manuscripts. Google Docs is still unbeatable for real-time collaboration and accessibility across devices. For staying organised, many choose to turn to Notion, Trello, or even simple to-do apps like Todoist.

Editing tools like Grammarly and Hemingway App help polish your writing before you send it off to an agent or publish it online. Each writer customizes their digital desk with the tools that suit their brain best���whether they need structure, motivation, or simplicity.

Smartphone: Storytelling Companion and Social Connector

It might seem surprising, but your smartphone is an essential piece of writing kit. Today���s writers use it not just for social updates but as a mini creative studio. Instagram Reels, TikTok writing vlogs, and even Threads and Substack are platforms where authors share their process, inspirations, or daily word count.

A smartphone helps capture fleeting ideas through voice memos or note apps. It���s a research assistant, a mobile hotspot, a camera for mood boards, and a way to stay connected to your readers. For authors who brand themselves as relatable creatives, a phone isn���t just a distraction���it���s a tool for community building.

A Writer���s Community in Your Pocket

Even if writing is a solitary act, publishing isn���t. Connecting with other writers online offers camaraderie, accountability, and valuable industry insight. Whether it���s through Discord groups, Twitter (now X), or curated communities, networking has never been more accessible.

This shift from isolation to collaboration is key. Ultimately, networking with other writers isn���t just about socializing. It���s how you find critique partners, beta readers, and moral support when rejections roll in. Unlike Woolf or Twain, today���s writers don���t have to go it alone.

Notepad for Loose Ideas: Physical or Digital

Every writer knows that not all ideas belong in the current work-in-progress. That���s why keeping a dedicated space for loose thoughts���a pocket notebook, a running Google Doc, or a synced app like Apple Notes���is crucial.

These ideas may seem disjointed at first, but they often become the seeds of future blog posts, articles, or chapters. And when you���re on the road, inspiration can hit in strange places���a graffiti wall in Lisbon, a cafe in Hanoi, a conversation overheard on a ferry. Write it down. Keep it safe.

Music: The Writer���s Soundtrack

Music sets the tone for writing sessions, helping writers get into the zone. Whether it���s a lo-fi playlist on Spotify, ambient noise of a rainy day, or cinematic instrumental tracks, the right audio backdrop can boost focus and evoke the right mood for a scene.

There���s also a lot to be said about associating sounds with places. So, it���s not uncommon for writers to unconsciously get inspired by the music of their surroundings. If you are visiting Paris, you���ll naturally be thinking of romantic and old-fashioned scenes because you may come across an accordion street player. Cambodia, on the other hand, may expose you to traditional Khmer music, which can inspire an adventurous scene in a temple. Traveling exposes you to new types of music in new environments. This does wonders for your creativity as a writer. 

Besides writers also share their playlists with readers���especially those self-publishing or building a personal brand. Music becomes another layer of storytelling, a behind-the-scenes peek into the world of the book or the mind of the author.

Unsplash – CC0 License

Break Time Essentials

Every productive writer knows the importance of a good break. But not all breaks are created equal. Scrolling through social media might be tempting, but it can leave you more scattered than refreshed.

Instead, meaningful and restorative breaks can support your writing rhythm. Activities like gentle stretching, a short walk, or a burst of journaling can clear your mind. Some writers enjoy brewing a fresh cup of tea, lighting a candle, or stepping onto the balcony to reset their senses.

For others, a quick brain game works wonders. A quiet round of solitaire is a classic choice. It���s simple yet satisfying, with just enough strategy to refocus the mind without derailing your flow. Unlike social media, it doesn���t overstimulate���you engage just enough to recharge, then return to the page with fresh eyes.

The key is to choose breaks that support rather than distract, ones that help maintain your creative energy across long writing sessions.

Beverage of Choice: A Ritual of Focus

Writers and beverages go hand in hand. From coffee and matcha to herbal teas or even adaptogenic mushroom blends, having a go-to drink creates a ritual around writing.

It���s not just about the caffeine boost���though that helps. It���s about signaling to your brain that it���s time to write. The comfort of holding a warm mug, the familiar scent of a favorite tea, or the first sip of your morning coffee becomes part of the creative process.

Modern writers often find themselves in caf��s, co-working spaces, or tucked into their own kitchen nooks. Regardless of setting, the drink is there���reliable and grounding. Where authors like Twain may have favoured whiskey, today���s writers are more likely to reach for an oat milk flat white or a calming chamomile.

It���s a small indulgence that adds structure and comfort, turning the act of writing into a mindful routine. And when you���re far from home, a familiar drink can be the tether that keeps you focused and steady.

Unsplash – CC0 License

Writing on the Go: Inspiration from New Places

Travel isn���t a distraction from writing���it���s often a source of it. Whether you write fiction, nonfiction, or journal entries, a change of scenery has a powerful effect on creativity. New smells, sights, and sounds invite fresh ideas.

The beauty of the digital desk is that it follows you. With your laptop or Freewrite, phone, headphones, and digital tools, you can write from a train station in Rome or a lakeside cottage in Canada. A portable setup doesn���t just enable mobility���it feeds imagination. When you’re immersed in a new culture, your mind opens in new ways. And when you return to your manuscript, it’s with a richer palette.

The writer���s desk in 2025 is no longer fixed to a location. It moves with you, adapts to your life, and expands with every tool you add. Whether you���re a travel blogger, a fiction author, or a poet scribbling lines between flights, your digital desk empowers your voice.

It���s not about having the best gear or most aesthetic setup. It���s about knowing what helps you write, connect, and stay inspired. With smart devices, virtual communities, and the freedom to work from anywhere, the modern writer isn���t tied down. They���re moving, learning, exploring���and always writing.

The post The Modern Writer���s Desk: How Travel and Tech Power the Creative Journey appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

March News Milestones: A Journey Across Continents, Awards, and Cherished Moments in 2025

A Journey Across Continents, Awards, and Cherished Moments:

 March News 2025 Niver’s Newsletter 183

March has been a month of exciting projects, meaningful travels, and cherished moments with family and friends. My Quark Expeditions Antarctica adventure was featured on Spectrum News, sharing the magic of my seventh continent with a wider audience. At Zibby���s Bookshop, I had the pleasure of stepping into the role of interviewer, leading a conversation with Jennifer Lang���a full-circle moment as both an author and a journalist. It was so much fun to be in the other chair at a live book event!

My Ireland travel feature is now in print in Pasadena Magazine, along with my latest TV segment covering the Emerald Isle. BRAVE-ish reached another milestone, earning its 10th award from International Impact Book Awards���an incredible achievement that fills me with gratitude. I loved my interview on the The Jet Set TV with Nikki Noya to talk about my epic expedition to Antarctica. The awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable moments like my polar plunge, hula-hooping on the fast ice and my unintended polar plunge while Standup Paddle boarding! I am grateful to all of these outlets, events and awards for highlighting my journeys and my writing.

Beyond work, this month was about connection. Skiing in Park City with my dad was fantastic! He called us the New Zealand All-Blacks because we only skied expert black diamond runs! A college reunion in the Bay Area was a joyful return to old friendships, including standing inside a towering redwood with Faith, strolling by the water with Cindy, home cooked meals with Carl, Sonja & Izzy and being mesmerized by Anne Marie singing at the legendary Martuni���s, one of San Francisco���s last great piano bars. From icy landscapes to warm reunions, it was a month of adventure, reflection, and the kind of connections that make life richer.

Lisa and her Dad at Park City Mountain, Utah My Bay Area ReunionThe Jet Set TV: Adventuring to AntarcticaANTARCTICA with Quark Expeditions: now over 60 videos Niver on Spectrum NewsMy Print Story in Pasadena Magazine: Stay in an Irish Castle! RECENT ARTICLES:Broadway, Books & Beyond: Unforgettable NYC AdventuresWomen Writers, Women’s Books: How I Wrote Brave-ish: A Story of Courage, Loss, and TikTokNext Ave: 7 Destinations To Indulge in the Quiet Travel Trend by Robin Catalano–who quoted me: “”Some of my best trips have been quiet travel,” says Lisa Niver, author of “Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty . ” “I think there’s this pressure, partially from social media, to come home with the best pictures or the perfect story. [The best approach] is to decide in advance your goal for the trip, and not overschedule. Make having quiet space a conscious choice, whether that’s walking through a beautiful garden, reading a book on the beach, or taking yourself to an art museum.”Feedspot: 90 Best Travel Lifestyle Blogs and Websites in 2025: Thank you for including me again!

Learn more about my events: click here and my articles here

I have events nearly every month–hope to see you at a live event soon–and you can invite me to speak at your conference, library, bookstore, book club live or on ZOOM!

Want to travel more? I have a Travel Writer 101 class on Udemy. CLICK here for a coupon to take my class for FREE!

I have students in 9 countries so far:
Australia, Canada, India, Italy, New Zealand, Philippines, Portugal, Thailand, USA!
Join us on the adventure of travel writing!

THANK YOU for watching my award-winning podcast, Make Your Own Map: Are YOU ready to be BRAVE? It has now been seen and heard in 56 countries on 7 continents.

Have you heard my recent podcast episode?

Enjoy the livestream from Zibby’s Bookshop Author Event with Jennifer Lang and me– Lisa Niver!!

WATCH my podcast, “MAKE YOUR OWN MAP: ” on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Podcast,  Google Podcasts, Audacy, Audible, Anchor, Pandora & iHeart Radio

https://youtu.be/fSo1AJzEtMA

WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have over 2.3 Million views on YouTube! (now at: 2,330,000).

Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 4,540 subscribers? I hope you will join me and subscribe! For more We Said Go Travel articles, TV segments, videos and social media: CLICK HERE

Find me on social media with over 150,000 followers. Please follow me on social @LisaNiver TikTok, X  Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, BlueSky and at LisaNiver.com.

EPIC JOURNEY Crossing the Antarctic Circle with Quark Expeditions. Click here to see my Antarctica videos !

Do you LOVE my book BRAVE-ish? PLEASE WRITE A REVIEW!! Click here to go directly to rate or review BRAVE-ish on Amazon (now at 61 reviews. Help me get to 75) You can find my book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Simon & Schuster, Post Hill Press, Target, Walmart, BookShop, BAM! and wherever you get your audiobooks!

People always ask me where is it best to buy my book. I recommend you go into or call your favorite local book store and ask them to order it for you and pick it up IN THE STORE! You never know what other treasures you will find. Any bookstore can order my book because my publisher is Post Hill Press and it is distributed by Simon and Schuster. My book is now in the library on Quark Ultramarine and in the store at Dubray bookstore on Grafton in Dublin, Ireland! Brave-ish is available all over the globe!

You can also find me now on SUBSTACK!

The post March News Milestones: A Journey Across Continents, Awards, and Cherished Moments in 2025 appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

BRAVE-ish wins International Impact Book Award

My book, Brave-ish, has now received its 10th award, earning recognition for Travel from the International Impact Book Awards. This milestone marks another highlight in an incredible journey of accolades, affirming the book���s impact on readers seeking adventure, courage, and personal transformation. I am honored to see Brave-ish resonate with so many, and I���m truly grateful for these honors.

From the International Impact Book Awards:

“Your exceptional talent, dedication, and creativity have set you apart in a competitive field… This award is a testament to the impact your work has made in the literary world. Your story, your voice, and your commitment to excellence have resonated with readers and judges alike, and we are proud to celebrate your success.”

Since its release, Brave-ish has been celebrated across multiple categories, from travel and memoir to self-help and women���s nonfiction. Earning recognition across such diverse categories underscores the book���s wide-reaching impact, inspiring readers from all walks of life.

Here���s a look at the awards and recognitions Brave-ish has received:

2025 International Impact Book Awards���Travel2024 Gold Medal – Inspirational ��� North American Book Awards2024 Gold Bookfest Award ��� Nonfiction Memoir Travel2024 Gold Nonfiction Book Award ��� Nonfiction Authors Association2024 Literary Titan Gold Book Award ��� Non-fiction2024 Silver Bookfest Award ��� Nonfiction Self-Help Inspiration2024 Readers’ Favorite Honorable Mention ��� Non-Fiction – Women���s Genre2023 Hearten Book Awards First Place Winner ��� Inspiring & Uplifting Non-Fiction2023 Zibby Awards Runner-up ��� Best Book for The Strong Woman2023 Goody Business Book Awards Winner ��� Memoir/Self-Help

Beyond these prestigious awards, Brave-ish has also gained recognition in top publications. It was featured in Cond�� Nast Traveler���s Women Who Travel Book Club as one of “10 New Books We Can’t Wait to Read This Fall” and recognized in Forbes��� Best New Nonfiction list. Each of these awards and features reinforces the book���s mission: to encourage readers to step outside their comfort zones, embrace adventure, and redefine what it means to be brave.

Additionally, I have won nine awards in The Southern California Journalism Awards and the National Arts and Entertainment Journalism (NAEJ) Awards

Thank you to everyone who has supported Brave-ish along the way!

MORE AWARDS FOR BRAVE-ish

BRAVE-ish��has received��a Gold Medal in the INSPIRATIONAL category of the 2024 North American Book Awards.��

My book Brave-ish has received its ninth award, earning the prestigious Gold Medal in the Inspirational category of the 2024 North American Book Awards.

BRAVE-ish wins READER’S FAVORITE Women’s Genre!

From Gold to Jingle: Celebrating My Awards and Two Years with The BookFest

I���m thrilled to share that my work has received recognition at The BookFest, earning both a Gold and a Silver award. Click here to see the TWO AWARDS that my memoir, BRAVE-ish, won!

Congratulations! The BookFest honors authors who create outstanding works of fiction and nonfiction. The BookFest’s mission is rooted in the belief that literature has transformative power and, in a desire to support and celebrate those who create it.

My memoir, Brave-ish, is a 2023 HEARTEN Book Awards First Place Winner for Uplifting & Inspiring Non-Fiction and Memoir!BRAVE-ish is a Nonfiction Gold Book Awards Winner BRAVE-ish is a winner: 2024 Literary Titan Gold Book Award Goody Business Book Awards: Memoir/Self-Help Zibby Awards: Best Book for The Strong Woman My Podcast, Make Your Own Map, won 2nd place for Diversity in TV/Streaming at the NAEJ Awards
My website is #10 on the top 100 Travel Lifestyle Blogs and Websites I am also the #3 Top Travel Influencer for 2024 for Afluencer as well as #10 of Female Influencers Brands Can���t Get Enough of for 2024!

North American Book Awards 2024

Learn with LISA: Travel Writer 101

The post BRAVE-ish wins International Impact Book Award appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Meet Jennifer Lang & Lisa Niver at Zibby’s Bookshop March 26, 2025

Grateful to Zibby���s Bookshop for creating such a special space to celebrate books and conversations that matter!

On March 26, 2025, join us for an inspiring evening with Jennifer Lang, author of Landed: A Yogi���s Memoir in Pieces & Poses. In this beautifully woven memoir, Jennifer captures the trials of returning to Israel���the country where she and her French husband met and married���a move driven by love, compromise, and the pursuit of peace. Lang wrestles with the deeper meaning of belonging, identity, and shalom bayit (peace in the home). Her story is a powerful testament to resilience, sacrifice, and the struggle to create harmony in one of the world���s most complex regions.

Don���t miss this chance to hear Jennifer���s insights, share in a thoughtful discussion, and celebrate the power of storytelling. Buy a book, get it signed, and be part of the journey!

REGISTER HERE for March 26th event

Find Jennifer on the move in March:
19: Writing to Heal at Bonai Shalom in Boulder, CO
24: Seniors in Sync at Temple Beth Am in LA
25: Writing to Heal at Temple Judea in Tarzana
26: In conversation with Lisa Niver at Zibby’s bookshop in Santa Monica

ABOUT  Landed: A yogi���s memoir in pieces & poses

American-born Jennifer traces her nonlinear journey���both on and off the yoga mat���reckoning with her adopted country (Israel), midlife hormones (merciless), cross-cultural marriage (to a Frenchman) and their imminent empty nest (a mixed blessing), eventually realizing the words her yoga teachers had been offering for the past twenty-three years: root down into the ground and stay true to yourself. Finally, she understands that home is about who you are, not where you live. Written in experimental chapterettes, Landed: A yogi���s memoir in pieces & poses spans seven years (and then some), each punctuated with chakra wisdom from nationally-acclaimed Rodney Yee, her first teacher.

Excerpt from Landed: A yogi’s memoir in pieces & posesBalagan

Two months after the God Talk with the girls, the day after we land in Israel, we step inside our windswept-gray front door of our house in Raanana. I gasp. The late August heat suffocates me like a tight wool turtleneck. 

���Alors?��� Mari asks.

What do I think of a place I���d seen once, eight months earlier, in the country for my nephew���s wedding, when a realtor and I stood in the foyer and my shoulders softened, saying: ���You don���t know our story, but I don���t want to move here, yet can picture living within these walls.���

She had no clue that three years earlier, we���d spent what I dubbed The Year of Living Differently in this city, to stretch our children���s Weltanschauung beyond the red-white-and-blue flag. She had no idea that we���d arrived whole and left divided; Mari and Son aching to stay, Daughters and I eager to go. She had no inkling that I���d agreed to return for ten years���from the eldest entering the army to the youngest exiting the army.

Call it payback to my husband for living in my homeland for the 15 years.

Call it shalom bayit[i] or peace in the house.

Call it compromise���

���You really want to know?��� I ask Mari.

My thoughts are vicious and biting like a rattlesnake.

The girls race from room to room, shouting to each other, their voices bouncing off the stone walls, reiterating what I already know: it���s a mess.

We���ve arrived in time for the Jewish New Year but long before the house is livable. Construction workers roam every room. Hefty tools litter the tiled floors. The kitchen countertop is MIA. New appliances stand forlorn in the barren space. Layers of grime cover every surface. Outlets malfunction. Paint splotches spot windows and walls.

He puppy-dog eyes me.

���Aze balagan[ii]!���

Mari and I speak a linguistic hodgepodge���French, English, Franglais, Hebrew, Hebrish���depending on mood.

���You might want to sleep on an air mattress, but the kids and I will stay elsewhere.���

I morph from upbeat into kvetch as I emigrate from New York to Israel.

Mari drops it. He neither confronts nor cajoles in his usual way. Living in America was never his fantasy, returning to Israel, never mine. My surrender came with conditions. At the top of my list: let me be.

ZIM

Days later, a mammoth truck carrying our red clay-colored container reverses into our driveway, its seven stars and three letters recognizable from afar. Six weeks earlier, it decamped from the Port of New York, heaving with our material possessions, leaving me to stare at our stripped century-old New York Tudor, the only one that ever felt like home in the 21 years of our mobile marriage, and sob.

Here, halfway around the world from my American-girl-reference point, the movers taunt us with ready-or-not-here-we-come. We���re far from ready. Inside is a wreck, but outside, the sun broils me.

Mari and I watch them unload. A boy vrooms on his skateboard. A high-hanging date tree provides insufficient shade. A couple emerges from the house next door. I await the ordinary onslaught of questions: Where are you from? Do you have kids? What do you do?

After trading names and professions, the salt-and-pepper-haired veterinarian with an unmistakable Israeli accent says they raised kids on Long Island.

���I can���t believe you came here when we dream of living there,���he says.

I cackle to cover my desire to cry.

Mari and I exchange a long-married-couple look: save me.

A mover asks where to put our dining room chairs. Mari directs the swarm of stocky men air-traffic-control style. I dash inside to indicate what goes where:

Our sofa, mattresses, desks, nightstands, and flat-screen TV are encased in bubble wrap like King Tut. Cardboard boxes of books and photo albums along with Container Store bins of Legos and American Girl dolls tower above us.

As movers schlep in and out, I recall my children���s favorite bedtime story, a Yiddish folk tale called It Could Always Be Worse. The tale of a man who lived with his mother, wife, and six children in a one-room hut. Miserable, he ran to the rabbi, who instructed him to take in the chickens then the goat and lastly the cow until the chaos became unbearable, and his rabbi then told him to free the animals one at a time at which point the family slept peacefully and the man relished the relative quiet.

While these burly men heave and ho, I think about the civil war raging in Syria���a mere 500 miles north���realizing how fortunate we are: immigrants by choice, completely intact.

[i] The Jewish religious concept of domestic harmony and good relations between spouses

[ii] Originally a Persian word, balchan morphed into balagan as it migrated from Turkey to Russia to Lithuania to Palestine during the late 19th century

more information https://israelwriterstudio.com

SAVE THE DATE: March 26, 2025

Join us at Zibby���s Bookshop for an evening with two remarkable Jewish authors, Jennifer Lang and Lisa Niver, as they explore the complexities of identity, family, and the challenges of building a life in a new land. Jennifer will delve into her latest book, Landed: A Yogi���s Memoir in Pieces & Poses, sharing her experiences of moving from New York to Israel, and the struggles and surprises of navigating a new life.

About Places We Left Behind: a memoir-in-miniature

When American-born Jennifer falls in love with French-born Philippe during Israel���s First Intifada, she understands their differences: she’s a secular tourist, he’s an observant immigrant. Determined to make it work, they spend the next 20 years rooting and uprooting their growing family, each in search of a place where they can feel home and whole. In Places We Left Behind: a memoir-in-miniature, Jennifer puts her marriage under a microscope, examining commitment and compromise, faith and family.

The Writers Center: Virtual Craft Chat with Memoirist Jennifer Lang

Israel Writers Studio: a home for English-language creative writers

Jennifer Lang with Blair Glaser at Zibby’s Bookshop

A Bay Area transplant in Tel Aviv, Jennifer Lang runs Israel Writers Studio. American by birth, Israeli by choice, and French by marriage, she is celebrating Places We Left Behind: a memoir-in-miniature (2023) and Landed: A yogi’s memoir in pieces & poses (10/15/2024). Her prize-winning essays appear in Baltimore Review, Under the Sun, Midway Journal, and elsewhere. She holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and was an Assistant Editor at Brevity Journal. When not at her desk, she might be walking along the edge of the Mediterranean or on her yoga mat–practicing since 1995, teaching since 2003. Find Jennifer at israelwriterstudio.com, on Instagram and Facebook.

The post Meet Jennifer Lang & Lisa Niver at Zibby’s Bookshop March 26, 2025 appeared first on We Said Go Travel.