Lisa Niver's Blog: We Said Go Travel, page 8

Unforgettable Safari: A Family Adventure in Tanzania & Kenya

As I embark on my next chapter of life and embrace “Living Ageless and Bold,” I wanted to share tips on my travels as it relates to women over 50 traveling. We are our own, unique demographic and our travel wants and needs should be addressed. Here are all the details of the trip my husband and I took to Kenya and Tanzania with our adult son.

Taking a safari was truly the trip of a lifetime! At this age, we are still young and fit to enjoy it and, have the ability to splurge on it to make it a trip of a lifetime.

We were blessed to be able to go with our 25-year-old son and experience this together with him. This is a great trip for you to take with your spouse/significant other, young adult kids, and older grandchildren.

I don’t recommend taking young kids on a safari. We saw many of them asleep in the vehicles because safari trips start around 6:30 am for the morning ride and 4:30 pm for the evening ride. (It is too hot for the animals to be out during the day, so you have a greater likelihood of seeing them at sunrise and sunset.) 

Personally, I would wait until kids are at least older teenagers before taking them on this type of trip. The younger kids won���t appreciate it.

Where Should You Go?

There are so many choices for a safari ��� Bali, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, etc. We chose Kenya and Tanzania ��� in hopes of seeing the wildebeest migration. Sadly, we missed the big migration (due to weather patterns that shifted), but we did see buffalo and zebras migrating. 

In fact, when we landed on the airstrip near our first camp the first things we saw were herds of zebras and all I could do was cry! I had never seen anything like that in my life.

Look at your options and see what���s best for you and your family, how you want to travel, and what you want to see. Because of the wildebeest migration (which starts in Tanzania) our trip involved going to both Kenya and Tanzania, which are two separate countries and have border crossings and immigration. What we learned as we met people on our trip is that most companies don���t offer this option because of the paperwork and visas that are required for border crossings. 

Additionally, there are limited border crossings so you could literally be at your camp in Kenya and you can see Tanzania which is a 5-minute drive but instead, you have to fly to the other side of Kenya, drive for a few hours, cross the border, and go back. That being said, it was worth it to have the long drives and see how people in those countries really live and drive through the towns and villages.

We had one very long travel day, but we left early so the trip to the airport was basically a mini safari and it was there that we saw one of the best sites of our trip. I spotted a dead buffalo in the middle of the tall grasses and our guide drove up and said, ���The lions have to be near!��� 

And sure enough, there walked up a lioness to check on her kill. It was unbelievable! Like the guides always say, ���You���ll see what you���ll see!���

A good travel agent is vital for this and can make anything happen. We used my good friend Jen at Destinations Done Right and I HIGHLY recommend her for not just a safari but any of your travel needs. Jen @ DestinationDoneRight.com

Also, If you go the several camps route as we did, know that travel in Africa is done in small planes and dirt airstrips that are located everywhere. They are like the taxis of Africa. And very important to note��� schedules change constantly because they might have to now pick someone else up from another airstrip so be flexible and don���t get stressed over changes (like I did). Your tour company will work it out with the plane company and get you to where you are going.

When To Go

We went in late June which is the end of the off-season. For us, this was an ideal time to go. What we learned is that when you go during peak season, it���s packed with tour vehicles. If there is an animal sighting, you only get to stay 5 minutes. We had the parks almost entirely to ourselves and could hang out with the animals and take videos and pictures for hours if we wanted to.

We still saw everything you can imagine, and we were up close and personal with all of them. We literally had happy hour with lions (in our vehicle of course), we saw a cheetah, a leopard bringing her prey out of the tree, hundreds of elephants, zebra, giraffe, rhinos, buffalo, and every other animal and bird you can think of that is native to Kenya and Tanzania. 

Probably the most memorable moment of the trip for me happened on the last day. It was a lioness about to give birth and we were feet from her watching her pant and roll around because she was in labor. She was staring in my eyes and I just wanted to go rub her belly and tell her, “I’ve been there.” But of course, I didn’t do that!

Remember, going slightly off-season might be a better option. We went for the last two weeks in June and it was spectacular.

Vaccines

Let me start by saying I am NOT a doctor nor am I in the medical field. I am just sharing what I learned along the way. My doctor recommended Passport Health, which is located all across the U.S. I did the first visit to check it out. It���s $99 per person for a consult and as long as you get your shots within 30 days, you don���t have to pay for another office visit.

Then, a friend told me Costco does vaccines. It���s $39 for the consult and the vaccines were about half the price of Passport Health. Caveat ��� Costco only offers this in certain states. We were able to do it in Virginia, but our son had to use Passport Health in New York.

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Also, depending on where you are staying you can make your decision about malaria pills. Since we were earlier in the season and at a higher elevation, we opted not to but that is a personal decision.

The Yellow Fever vaccine was the only required one to go to Africa and make sure you get your yellow card. They did not give it to our son and he had to go back to Passport Health to get it. You will definitely need it if you go to Africa.

Also, if you are over 60, consult with your doctor as there are some vaccines they don���t want you to do at that age.

How to Get There?

We splurged on this trip and chose to try out the Emirates Airbus A380 from Dulles to Nairobi with a stop in Dubai. Our son who traveled with us had this plane on his bucket list and my thought was, ���There is no way my 25-year-old son is flying in that plane on business class and I���m in the back in coach.���

It was truly an experience from the minute you head out your door. They have a car service there to pick you up and deliver you to the airport. We flew out of Dulles so the lounge was a shared lounge, but our son got to experience the full Emirates experience out of JFK. 

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They board you on the plane exclusive to your section, so we took a private tunnel into business class. The pods alone are spectacular with a seat that reclines fully to a bed (they bring you a separate mattress). 

The entertainment system has 5,000 options from movies, to documentaries, to podcasts, to live news, and more (how do you choose?). They have USB plugs to keep everything charged. Make sure you bring your adapter on board with you if you need to charge a laptop.

The coolest thing is the cameras on the plane so you can watch take-off and landing.

The minute you sit down you are greeted with a glass of juice or champagne (in a glass) and meals are served on chinaware with silverware and a white tablecloth. The food and wine were delicious, and we were pampered throughout the entire 13-hour flight. They also have a separate bar in the back if you want to take a break and go sit and relax and have a drink. And the nicest touch of all is the flower vases on the wall indicating where the restroom is.

We also were gifted Bulgari travel kits designed for men or women with all the essentials. The only downside��� it adds to your weight a bit, but that bag is a keeper!

We landed in Dubai and experienced the Emirates lounge there which was a full spread of amazing food and desserts, anything you want to drink non-alcoholic or alcoholic, plugs galore, and comfy leather seating.

Many airlines fly you direct to Nairobi or connect you there like we did through Dubai. My biggest recommendation is if you are able to fly business or first class in a seat that reclines to a bed, do that. We were able to sleep a little on each of the flights and weren���t impacted by any jet lag by getting about 3 hours on each flight.

The way back is in the middle of the night and we slept quite a bit.

NOTE about Duty-Free purchases coming home: I bought duty-free wine in Nairobi and although we were through the main security when we landed in Dubai, they would not let me take it on the plane saying the U.S. government says any flight bound for the U.S. cannot have liquid brought onboard. They even made us get rid of our water bottles from the Emirates lounge.

Types of Lodges

You really want to plan if you want to go rustic or glamping. We did a mix of both with two camps more glamping, one more rustic, and one all-out luxury glamping. I loved the camp of our rustic lodge, but the twin bed/cot left a lot to be desired, especially when I woke up and had to get up and out of it. The glamping was still canvas tents, but it was upscaled with luxury bedding and a beautiful bathroom/dressing area. Some of our camps offered family tents and that was fun to have a ton of bonding with our son. Not sure how many more opportunities we���ll have like this.

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We chose to do four camps to see as many different places as we could. I am glad we did this because if you stayed in the same camp the entire time, you might be limited in what you see.

We started in Kenya in the Masai Mara National Reserve at Governors Il Moran Camp. This was so cool because down in the riverbed there were tons of Hippos. They make noises all night to scare off prey but it was awesome to be so close to them.

Next, we crossed over to Tanzania and stayed at the Siringit Migration Camp in the Northern Serengeti. We literally had giraffes walking through our camp. It was amazing!

Our next camp was in Tarangire National Park at Lokisale Camp. This was the most rustic of our camps. We were in nylon tents (although the insides had fully equipped wooden bathrooms/showers) and we slept in cot beds. My most vivid memory of this camp was the lion killing prey right outside our tent. I was dying to see it but knew we could never unzip our tent in the pitch black with a lion right outside.

Then we went back to Kenya and ended our trip at the luxurious Finch Hattons resort in Tsavo West National Park.

What we loved about this itinerary is we saw all types of terrain and different animals in different environments. For me personally, I probably wouldn’t go back to Lokisale because it was so rustic and when the generator went out we had no internet for 24 hours (which made it hard to stay connected to our adult daughter who was at home working). It was glorious to end at Finch Hattons and be pampered for the last few days. I would probably do a similar itinerary with 2-3 nights at four different camps in different areas.

Every day is different of course but we liked the variety of so many different camps, parks, terrain, and animals. As the guides say, ���We���ll see what we���ll see!���

Note: The further out and rustic you are, the less Wi-Fi you���ll have. If this is important for you, consider camps closer to the cities than out in the middle of nowhere. Wi-Fi out there is usually run on generators so if the generator goes out, it takes a day to reset everything (this happened to us.)

What to Wear

I���ll provide a pdf checklist of what I brought and I feel I had a great mix and exactly enough for the entire trip. With the glamping camps, I did wear something a little nicer for dinner. For the rustic camp, I stayed in shorts and a pullover top in the evenings. Most camps have laundry services. It is important to find out if they have same-day or next-day in case you need something that evening. 

***Ladies note ��� it is a cultural norm that they will not wash women���s undergarments so you���ll have to load up on those.

The weather fluctuates so much from mornings/evenings to during the day, think layering.

Clothes ��� for 10 nights/11 days + two 20-hour travel days

Your clothes should be neutral colors, no brights. And, in some areas, camouflage is actually illegal so keep that at home. 

Here is what I brought:

Underwear (have enough for the trip plus backup*)

2 bras ��� tan and black plus sticky boobs

4 tank tops

4 short-sleeved casual shirts

3 pair of shorts

1 skort (I love a skort!)

4 pair of pull-on capris (3 would have been fine)

2 short-sleeved button-up shirts (1 could be long-sleeved)

1 nice pullover lightweight sweater

1 nice pullover sweatshirt type top 

1 pair of leggings

1 bug-sprayed pullover

1 regular pullover

2 pair of black low-ankle socks

2 pair of tan ankle socks

Ankle ���safari��� boots

Tennis shoes

Wedge sandals (for dinners)

Flip flops

2 lightweight jackets (you could easily do one)

1 lightweight rain jacket

Hat (although I only wore it on 2 occasions when it rained a little)

Lightweight sweatpants for the plane

I didn���t bring the zip-off pants but could see how those would be useful as the morning and evenings were very chilly and the days were hot.

All our camps had robes so check before you pack that.

Other

Collapsible water bottle

Sunscreen ��� lotion will last longer than spray

Tiny bug spray (some camps had it and some didn���t so have it for backup)

Itch cream

Travel-size toiletries and skin care products* (get them as consolidated as possible)

Tiny magnifying mirror

Tums/Benadryl/Advil/Tylenol

Face wipes

Adapter

Curling or flat iron with 220 voltage. Don���t bring a 110 as you���ll blow it up.**

Small steamer with 220 voltage

Big hair clip(s) and or ponytail holders (if you have longer hair)

Bathing suit if your camp has a pool

Backup phone charger

Lip balm

Plugs (all our camps had USB ports)

One pair each of silver and gold hoops/earrings

Watch (If you have an Apple watch, bring one neutral band)***

Backpack

Small binoculars (bring bigger/better ones if you can fit them)

Sunglasses

Camera ��� my phone did amazing. We have a nice Cannon camera so my husband brought ours, but the new cell phones take incredible pictures so that really is all you need.

*Some camps had soap in the rooms for washing undergarments

**All camps (even the rustic one) had shampoo and lotion but if you color your hair, you know what you need to bring. Also, some don���t have conditioner so bring a small one for sure.

***Every camp had a blow dryer so check that before you pack one

****BONUS ��� when you wear your Apple watch on safari because it���s so bumpy, you will close your rings and get upwards of 10,000 ���steps��� per day!

Currency

Everyone in Kenya and Tanzania took U.S. Dollars so we did not need to convert to Schillings. They also gave us change in U.S. Dollars

How to Pack

You must pack in a soft duffel bag (no wheels). We were fortunate that our tour company gifted them to us. The small planes will not take hard luggage. Our weight limitation was 15kg or 33lbs ��� TOTAL!!! That���s for a duffel and backpack. 

Hint ��� your boots will be the heaviest thing in your bag, so where those on the plane and layer up if you need to.

With the laundry services available, packing light can be done. Trust me on this. I���m the gal whose suitcase is regularly at 52 lbs in the U.S. (with airline status you get a few extra pounds) and 69 lbs in Europe ��� LOL. This all being said, before I left, I read airports vary from 33-44 pounds so definitely verify with your tour company what your weight allotment is and pack accordingly ��� the larger airstrips do have scales.

Use packing cubes! With everything in a soft duffel, the cubes make it so easy. I put undergarments in one, short-sleeved shirts in one, shorts in one, pants in one, etc. This makes moving from camp to camp super easy too.

Checklist Download

Click HERE to download your checklist of what I brought

Food/Drink

In Africa, all the lodges served three (amazing) meals per day. If you���re like me though, at this point in my life I prefer to graze and eat six small meals/day. That was tough because I���d graze at breakfast and be hungry an hour later when we were on safari.

I was tempted to bring a big bag of Bud & Elsie���s popcorn (my favorite) and a small reusable bag or some mini Kind bars to pack a snack every day. Either is super light and would have done the trick. 

One of our camps served popcorn at happy hour and I asked if they could send some along on our full-day safari the next day which was great. I probably should have asked the other camps what snacks they had that I could pack along

Our camps were all-inclusive and the wines were delicious. I���m a Chardonnay girl and had not really experienced African wine before and I loved it. The camps had full bars, water, sodas, and juices so anything you could want was available.

I felt eating here was super healthy too (except for all the bread and dessert at lunch AND dinner but a few bites were fine). Soups are very popular and were served at almost every lunch and dinner. I cannot tell you how many amazing soups we had on this trip and things I never would have thought to put together like pea coconut soup ��� and I don���t really like coconut ��� it was delicious! 

Breakfast is pretty much like ours in the U.S. and pretty consistent at all the camps ��� cereals or granola, fruit, bread, eggs, pancakes, crepes, bacon, and sausage.

Lunch and dinner were all delicious with a protein, starch (mainly rice), and tons of vegetables.

Every meal was a surprise and nothing disappointed. We also found that most camps offered a vegetarian option even without asking. If you have dietary restrictions, just make sure to tell the tour operator so they can let them know ahead of time and they will plan accordingly.

The Game Safari

Get ready for the experience of a lifetime!!! As I said, you���ll want a clip for your hair or hat because you are in an open-air vehicle and it���s windy. And it���s dusty! One tour guide said he had people who complained about the dust (seriously?) Just be prepared. And every camp has hot washcloths when you get back to wash the dust off.

Make sure your phone is charged and bring your extra battery. I literally took thousands of pictures and videos. You���ll also want to clear out your phone and/or make sure you have enough memory before you go.

Always Be on the Lookout! 

Ask your guide what is popular in the area you���re in. Certain animals like tall grasses, and others like short grasses. Look for cats in tall grasses, on termite mounds and rocks, and in dense shady bushes in the heat of the day. If you���re in a leopard area, ask your guide to show you a good leopard tree is and then look for a tail hanging down. These are tough to spot, and we got a one-in-a-million view of a leopard scaling down a tree with prey in her mouth.

WARNING: Video is a little graphic but very cool: 

What we learned by the end of our trip is that cats are very elusive and hard to find. You���ll have a bit more luck with lions because they travel in prides and stay in a certain area. We were lucky to see a cheetah, leopard, and multiple lion sightings on this trip. (There are no tigers in Africa.)

As I mentioned above, most safaris are early in the morning, around 6:30 am, back for lunch and rest, and then back out around 3:30-4:30. We also did one full-day safari and saw a lot, so it was just as good as the two half-day ones. Trust your guide.

The key to your safari is your guide! You really want a seasoned guide, and I would insist on it. When we saw the leopard, a young guide was driving a group right in front of us and our guide said, ���OMG, he missed the leopard! He missed the leopard!��� The good news is when there is a sighting, they are all on phones or radio to share with others. This will be a huge downside in the high season. In June it could mean 5 vehicles. In peak time it could be 100s. We shared our ���finds��� and were thankful when other groups did the same for us!

The sunsets are spectacular! Enjoy those when you return to camp.

Suggested Tipping

This is where we really needed help from our tour operator and appreciated the guidance. This is what they gave us that we followed:

Host at arrival destination $5-$10/person per dayGuide on Safari $10-$15/person per dayTracker on Safari $5-$10/person per dayRoo Butler (if you have one) $5-$10/person per dayLodge Staff (is split among the entire staff) $5-$10/per person (in your group not employees) per daySpa Services ��� 10%-15%What it Cost

We did a custom safari, not in a group, that had everything included, one-night hotel stay in Nairobi, transportation to all camps ��� vehicles and airplanes (minus airfare to/from Nairobi), room, 3 meals/day, beverages, alcoholic beverages, safari guides. 

A trip like this runs about $15,000/person for 10 nights and 11 days (excluding airfare).

There are less expensive versions available. This is just to compare what we did as I described above.

Before You Go:

Tribes: I wish I had known about all of the African tribes before arriving in Kenya, particularly the Maasai. In two weeks, I have learned so much but I would have had better conversations with them had I known some history and understanding of their culture. One of my favorite parts of the trip was my conversations with Isaac (below between me and my son) and talking about his life as a 27-year-old young man in the Massai tribe and my son who is a similar age but works on Wall Street. Hearing about their norms and customs was fascinating. I could have stayed up all night chatting with him.

If Kenya is on the list, learn about the various tribes in the area.

The Kenyan people were the kindest, happiest people I���ve ever met. They have so much joy in their hearts and pride for their country. When we were driving through the villages or on our last day in Nairobi, the kids loved seeing us and would wave like crazy. In this picture, we were stopped and they lined up to shake our hands and talk to us.

Words:

Here are a few words to bring with you when you go. Say Jambo and you will get an immediate smile from everyone!

Jambo ��� Hello, Greetings

Asante ��� Thank you

Asante Sana ��� Thank you so much

Karibu ��� Welcome and You���re Welcome

Kwa afya ��� Cheers

___________________

If this is on your bucket list and doable, do it!!! 

Here are my main suggestions summed up:

Use a seasoned travel agent (Jen at Destinations Done Right will take amazing care of you). Ask specific questions regarding your specific needs (sleeping arrangements/family quarters, dietary restrictions, anything special you want or need).Get a seasoned guide! I cannot stress this enough. I���ve heard so many people who went on safari and saw nothing. Pack light with mix-and-match outfits and wear your boots on all the small flights. Download the checklist.Write out your itinerary. It gets very confusing with transfers and flights if you are moving camps.Charge your phone and bring a backup batteryEnjoy every minute!

I hope you are enjoying life over 50! If you want inspiration, tips, and advice for life at this stage, tune into the Living Ageless and Bold Podast at LivingAgelessandBoldPodcast.com. New episodes drop every Wednesday

Join our community at www.LivingAgelessandBold.com

See all of our podcasts at https://christinadaves.com/living-ageless-podcast/

Listen on your favorite platform and make sure to subscribe.

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And if you love it, please leave a review!

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BRAVE-ish wins��Gold at North American Book Awards

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. 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 grateful for the recognition from these esteemed organizations.

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:

2024 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

Exciting upcoming events where I���ll be sharing the Brave-ish journey include Zibby���s Bookshop, Frequent Traveler University, and WriterCon. Plus, for those who want to dive deeper, you can take my class on UDEMY.

Most recently, I had the honor of bringing my Gold Medal to The Adventurers��� Club of Los Angeles on Galentine���s Day, sharing this milestone with fellow explorers and storytellers.

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

MORE AWARDS FOR BRAVE-ishBRAVE-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

Inspirational:

READ by Tony Kriz and Jeff Martin ��� Gold
Brave-ish by Lisa Niver ��� Gold
Freeing Teresa by Franke James ��� Gold
Culture Catalyst by Wes Love ��� Gold
Shed by Michelle Martin ��� Silver
The Five Sciences of Self by Dr. Ronald J. Bonnstetter and Carissa Gwerder Collazo ��� Bronze

2024 North American Book Award Winners

The post BRAVE-ish wins��Gold at North American Book Awards appeared first on We Said Go Travel.

Reader’s Digest: “The New Gen Z Travel Trend”

Thank you��Reader���s Digest for publishing my article: “The New Gen Z Travel Trend You Won���t Want to See at the Airport.”

Even airport security has become an art project, thanks to Gen Z’s latest TikTok trend

Now Trending

There���s nothing glamorous about airport security ��� but what if there could be? Gen Z influencers are attempting to infuse a little joy into their TSA-checkpoint experiences by crafting perfectly curated travel bins. Yes, you read that right���travelers are turning the mundane act of organizing items for the standard TSA screening into a moment of self-expression, all while capturing the experience for social media.

While it sounds harmless enough, it could also be a breach of basic airport etiquette. Let���s not forget that organizing things ���just so��� takes time���something you may have, but the people behind you in an airport-security line may not. And when those lines are long and people are stressing about making their flights, it���s easy to see how things could go awry quickly.

Read on to find out more about this travel trend, how prevalent it is and what the TSA thinks of it.

What does this travel trend entail, exactly?

In this somewhat strange trend, travelers are taking a pause before putting their items on the conveyor belt and carefully arranging their belongings in neat, visually pleasing layouts. Think color-coordinated toiletries, jackets folded just so and electronics laid out with precision. It���s not just about getting through security efficiently���it���s about turning an ordinary task into something beautiful and shareable. And share they do! Travelers are posting these curated bins on TikTok, transforming the TSA process into a mini art project.

One note: Some TikTokkers are taking these pictures after going through the X-ray machine, ostensibly so they don���t annoy the TSA agent they���re about to encounter and everyone else behind them in line. Others, however, are doing it before, apparently throwing caution to the wind! And still other influencers are staging these pictures at home���yes, away from the actual airport. In fact, that���s how this whole trend started: Graphic designer Piper Taich posted a series of these bins on TikTok with the caption ���in my art director era.���

Overall, the goal of any of these videos, often tagged #airportaesthetic, remains the same: to capture the moment when their belongings look picture-perfect.

Why are people doing this?

For many, it���s a way to inject a little creativity into an otherwise stressful part of traveling. Gen Z, in particular, has a knack for finding inspiration in unexpected places, and airport security is no exception. Curating a visually appealing TSA bin not only helps these travelers feel more organized, but it also allows them to find joy in the small moments of travel.

For others, it���s all about the content. Social media is overflowing with travelers who share every aspect of their journey���from packing tips to��airplane-outfit choices���and this trend is an extension of that. It���s about making travel look effortlessly stylish and, of course, getting a bit of extra engagement from fellow travelers who appreciate the creativity. Comments range from things like ���your shoes omg��� to ���obsessed��� to ���i would buy prints of these! they are art is right ��� while others ask for info on where to buy the cute items featured in the pics.

How prevalent is this trend?

While you might not see curated bins in every TSA line just yet, the trend is growing, especially among influencers and content creators who frequent large, international airports. TikTok has been the primary platform where this trend is spreading, with hashtags like #airportaesthetic and select videos racking up tens of thousands of views. The trend is most visible at hubs where social media-savvy travelers gather, but it���s slowly making its way to more airports.

Is it legal to take pictures in the airport security line?

The legality of snapping a photo in the TSA line varies, but generally, the TSA doesn���t prohibit photos as long as they don���t interfere with security operations. However, some airports have stricter rules when it comes to photography in secure areas. If you���re traveling internationally, the rules can be even more stringent. Always check local regulations before setting up a mini photo shoot at the security checkpoint.

What does the TSA say about this?

From a security standpoint, TSA officers have two goals: keeping the line moving and ensuring safety. While many officers don���t mind travelers organizing their items, they do caution against letting creativity slow down the process. Here���s what a TSA spokesperson told me when I reached out for a comment on this: ���As long as the staged glamour photos are not causing delays or issues with other passengers in the checkpoint, there are no issues.���

In other words, if you want to embrace this trend, make sure it doesn���t hold up fellow travelers who just want to get through security quickly.

What are some other airport trends on social media right now?

The curated TSA bin trend is just one of many travel-related movements popping up online. Here are a few other creative airport trends currently capturing attention:

Airport OOTDs (Outfits of the Day):��Travelers show off their stylish yet comfortable outfits, often posting a ���before and after��� once they settle into their airplane seats.Packing challenges:��In these videos, content creators fit an entire trip���s wardrobe into a carry-on and often include tips with folding techniques and liquid rules.Luxury lounge tours:��Here, you���ll get a sneak peek into the exclusive world of��airport lounges, with influencers giving detailed walkthroughs of the food, relaxation spaces and perks.Speedy security runs:��In this playful challenge, travelers time themselves on how quickly they can get through the TSA line without missing a beat.Why trust us

Reader���s Digest has published hundreds of travel stories that help readers explore the world safely, easily and affordably. We regularly cover topics such as the best places to visit (and the best times to visit them), tips and tricks to zoom through airport security, flight-attendant secrets, hotel-room hacks and more. We���re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers��� personal experiences where appropriate. For this story on the new Gen Z travel trend, Lisa Niver tapped her experience as a longtime travel journalist who has visited 102 countries on six continents to ensure all information is accurate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.

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Galentine���s Gathering at the Adventurers��� Club: Dinner, BRAVE-ish & Grand Giveaways!

I���m incredibly honored to be speaking at the 103-year-old Adventurers��� Club for a special Galentine���s Day celebration this Thursday, February 13th! This legendary space has long been a gathering place for explorers, storytellers, and adventurers, and I can���t wait to share my journey with you.

With 10 awards and counting, my book BRAVE-ish has taken me on an incredible ride���one filled with bold travels, unexpected challenges, and unforgettable moments of discovery. During this special evening, we���ll talk about the power of stepping outside our comfort zones, the thrill of exploring new places, and the connections we make along the way.

This event has been featured in the Jewish Journal���s print calendar and is listed on both the KTLA Community calendar and Discover Los Angeles���and I couldn���t be more excited to bring this celebration to life. Your ticket includes dinner, a book talk, and a signing���bring your own copy of BRAVE-ish or purchase one at the event! Plus, you���ll be entered into a raffle with over $700 in travel giveaways!

I���d love to see you there! Let���s raise a glass to adventure, friendship, and the journeys���both big and small���that shape who we are.

As seen in the Feb 7, 2025 print Jewish Journal

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Discover Your Brave-ish Spirit with Lisa Niver

I am incredibly honored to be invited to speak at the 103-year-old Adventurers’ Club! Please join me on February 13th for a special Galentine���s Day gathering, where we���ll celebrate the spirit of adventure. Together, we���ll explore stories of bold journeys and meaningful connections, and I���ll share insights from my travels with fellow wanderers across the globe. Let���s talk about the transformative power of stepping into the unknown and embracing the adventures that await!

GET YOUR TICKET for Feb 13th: CLICK HERE

This program includes over $800 worth of giveaways!!!

Guests will get a chance to win from a selection of awesome travel prizes, including:PADI Scuba ClassLos Angeles CityPASS tickets (2)Travel Writer 101 Class with Lisa NiverLos Angeles Travel and Adventure Show passesMs. Magazine One Year MembershipRichard Bangs ���The Art of Living Dangerously���

Los Angeles CityPASS�� tickets (valued up to $408) to the City of Angels.

Each Los Angeles CityPASS�� ticket contains prepaid admission to: Warner Bros. Studio Tour plus a choice of 3 more of these attractions: GRAMMY Museum, La Brea Tar Pit and Museum, LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, SoFi Stadium Tours and Starline Tours. There are no blackout dates, but reservations are��required��at Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Madame Tussauds Hollywood and Starline Tours. SoFi Stadium Tours recommends reservations.��CityPASS.com

Join award-winning travel expert, journalist, and adventurer Lisa Niver for an inspiring talk about her journey through heartbreak, reinvention, and fearless exploration. In her memoir, Brave���ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty, Lisa shares how she embraced bold adventures across six continents to rediscover her courage and transform her life.

But her story didn���t stop there. Continuing to live ���brave(ishly),��� Lisa has taken her adventures even further, from a polar bear walking safari in Canada to a polar plunge in Antarctica. Through these post-50 feats, she has proven that bravery knows no age and that life���s most exciting chapters can happen at any time.

Whether you���re seeking motivation to start a new chapter, pursue your own bold dreams, or simply connect with an adventurous spirit, Lisa���s captivating stories will inspire you to embrace the unknown and say ���yes��� to life���s greatest opportunities.

Lisa Niver is an award-winning travel expert, journalist, and adventurer who has explored all seven continents and over 100 countries. With a passion for pushing boundaries, she has journeyed through the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, dived the vibrant reefs of Palau and Sipadan, and visited Vanuatu twice���scuba diving 130 feet deep on the SS President Coolidge, one of the world���s most famous wreck dives, and walking along the edge of an active volcano in Tanna.

Lisa has scuba-dived with bull sharks in Mexico at Shark School, snorkeled with whale sharks in the Philippines, and swum with humpback whales in Tonga. Her adventures include polar bear walking safaris in Canada (twice!), taking a polar plunge in Antarctica, and experiencing thrilling safari encounters with Africa���s Big Five.

An avid thrill-seeker, Lisa has skydived, mountain biked, and even hula-hooped with Maasai warriors. In the Philippines, she danced and hula-hooped with the inmates of Iwahig Prison. As a backpacker, Lisa spent three years traveling across Asia, connecting deeply with the places and people she encountered. To reinvent herself, she completed 50 challenges before turning 50, proving her commitment to personal growth and fearless exploration.

Lisa is an expert storyteller who brings her global adventures to life through her acclaimed memoir, Brave(ish): One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty. Lisa is a sought-after international speaker, inspiring audiences with her daring tales and the transformative power of adventure. Whether exploring underwater worlds, cycling rugged terrains, or sharing her insights, Lisa embodies the spirit of a true adventurer.

GET YOUR TICKET for Feb 13th: CLICK HERE

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Tikkun Olam: Restoring Palisades School Libraries, One Book at a Time

The recent fires in Los Angeles have left many feeling overwhelmed, struggling to process the devastation and wondering if their efforts can truly make a difference. But in moments of crisis, individual action has the power to spark real change.

Zibby Owens, owner of Zibby���s Bookshop in Santa Monica and a Palisades resident, knows this firsthand. After her own home was impacted by the Palisades fire, she quickly mobilized to help others. She organized a pop-up clothing drive, rallying over 50 brands to donate essentials for more than 800 families who lost their homes. Now, she���s taking her efforts even further���committing to rebuilding the school libraries for four Palisades schools destroyed in the fire, where many students are also facing the devastating loss of their homes.

To further support the community, Zibby’s Bookshop in partnership with Scholastic and LitWorld gave away 1,000 children���s books for World Read Aloud Day, ensuring that young readers affected by the fire can still find comfort and inspiration in stories.

Her story is a powerful reminder: even in the face of overwhelming loss, action matters. The question isn���t just can you make a difference���but how you will.

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Let’s Rebuild School Libraries. Together.

Zibby’s Bookshop is launching a campaign to help Palisades schools that have been destroyed by the fire. Please help.

Zibby Owens

Feb 04, 2025

Donate

Hi everyone,

As you may know, I���m the owner of Zibby���s Bookshop in Santa Monica, CA and a (part-time) Palisades resident who has been deeply affected by the fire. I���ve just finished organizing a pop-up clothing drive for 800+ families who lost their homes with items donated by 50+ brands.

Now, I���m committing to rebuild the school libraries for four Palisades schools which have been destroyed by the fire. Many of the students at these schools have also lost their homes.

Please consider what it would feel like if you were in this situation, if your school library (and school) had burned down. Think about what books you loved reading growing up. The librarians. The cozy nook where you fell into a book that changed your life. Or think about the power of school libraries for your kids. The books they���ve brought home and begged you to read. The chapter books they couldn���t put down. The times you volunteered to read to the class.

Now imagine losing all of it.

I know so many people want to help families who have been affected by the fires but just don���t know how. Here���s one specific way you can help.

Donate

Please contribute to the Zibby���s Bookshop campaign to rebuild the school libraries of

St. Matthew���s Parish SchoolSeven Arrows Elementary SchoolThe Village SchoolMarquez Charter Elementary School

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You can contribute at any level.

$0 – $20: Helper

$21 – $50: Great Helper

$51 – $100: Super Helper

$101 – $250: Awesome Helper

$251 – $500: Incredible Helper

$501 – $1,000: Amazing Helper

$1,001 – $10,000: Fantastic Helper

$10,001 – $100,000: SUPERSTAR Helper

$100,001 – $800,000: UNBELIEVABLE Helper

Every donation helps. In addition to donating yourself, please, please forward the drive to all your friends and family who might consider joining you in this effort. Give others the opportunity to make a tangible difference in someone���s life.

We will try to put personalized bookplates in all the donated books with your names (or whoever you���d like to honor, perhaps your kids!) or will find other specific ways to acknowledge your generosity.

Let���s get the schools their books again. It���s the least we can do.

Donate

(Note: please no used books or individual book donations at this point. The schools have specific catalogs that we will be replacing so while the thought is lovely, please don���t send or offer books you���ve written or have in your own library. Thank you!)

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My Bucketlist 7th Continent: Niver’s Jan News 2025

January News 2025 with Lisa Niver & We Said Go Travel:Milestones, Memories & Change in Motion

January has been a month of milestones, challenges, and unforgettable moments. I made it to my 7th continent! After years of dreaming, I finally set foot in Antarctica, surrounded by breathtaking ice, whales, seals, and thousands of penguins. Sailing with Quark Expeditions on the Ultramarine was an adventure of a lifetime, and I can���t wait to share more videos and stories from this incredible journey.

9th Journalism Award & Standing Strong as a Jewish Author

I���m honored to have now won nine journalism awards between the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards (NAEJ) and the Southern California Journalism Awards. It���s not always easy being a Jewish author in today���s world, especially with the wave of online hate, but I remain committed to telling meaningful stories and amplifying voices that need to be heard.

Another exciting milestone? My memoir, BRAVE-ish, is now in the library aboard Quark���s expedition ship! Knowing that my story is sailing through the icy waters of Antarctica���just like I did���feels surreal.

500 Days of Waiting: A Moment of Hope

While I celebrate these achievements, I can���t ignore the weight of the world. It has been nearly 500 days of waiting for the hostages to return home. While some have returned, too many are still being held in dark tunnels.

The LA fires have also been devastating, another reminder of how fragile life can be. Through it all, I hold onto the belief that small steps lead to big changes.

Join Me February 13 at The Adventurers’ Club

One of the most exciting events coming up? My talk at The Adventurers’ Club on Galentine’s Day, February 13! This legendary institution has gathered every Thursday for 103 years, and in a long-overdue shift, women were finally allowed to become members in 2024.

I can���t wait to share stories from my travels, my 7th continent adventure, and what I���ve learned about pushing boundaries���whether in exploration, storytelling, or breaking barriers.

Here���s to new adventures, bold steps, and making 2025 unforgettable.

Wondering where to travel next?I loved celebrating Heather’s birthday at TWO Velas Resorts in Mexico! Check out both Casa Velas and Grand Velas–it is a direct flight to Puerto Vallarta from Los Angeles. I had the most relaxing time at SECRETS BAHIA MITA! It was the Ultimate Unlimited Luxury Experience by Hyatt!I loved my adventures on Ruby Princess for a California Coastal Cruise. It was so much fun I had to make TWO articles about it: Part 1 SF & Santa Barbara and Part 2 Los Angeles & San Diego. Thank you Princess Cruises! Did you hear me on iHeart Radio? Click here to listen in!! More events for BRAVE-ish are coming in 2025!

See you on Feb 13, 2025 in Los Angeles. I will also be speaking in Dallas and Oklahoma. Want me to speak at your book group or conference? INVITE ME!!

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 store at Dubray bookstore on Grafton in Dublin, Ireland! Brave-ish is available all over the globe!

Learn more about my events: click here and my articles here Want to travel more? I have a Travel Writer 101 class on Udemy. CLICK here for a coupon to take my class for FREE! WATCH my podcast, “MAKE YOUR OWN MAP: Are YOU ready to be BRAVE?” on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Podcast,  Google Podcasts, Audacy, Audible, Anchor, Pandora & iHeart Radio THANK YOU for watching my award-winning podcast, Make Your Own Map! It has now been seen and heard in 55 countries on 7 continents. WHERE CAN YOU FIND MY TRAVEL VIDEOS?

Here is the link to my video channel on YouTube where I have over 2.25 Million views on YouTube! (now at: 2,290,000).

Thank you for your support! Are you one of my 4,470 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.

Have you heard my recent podcast episode? Explore WILD IRELAND which I filmed on location when I was in Ireland for my TV special on The Jet Set. I am GRATEFUL beyond words to the entire team at THE JET SET TV who have made my TV dreams come true. THANK YOU!

LOS ANGELES: See you FEBRUARY 13, 2025 at The Adventurers’ Club! Register TODAY! SO MANY PHOTOS from Crossing the Antarctic Circle with Quark Expeditions. Click here to see all of my videos so far!

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Los Angeles Times: Lost Luggage, Missed Flights, Why Travel?

Thank you Los Angeles Times for publishing my article: “Lost luggage, Missed Flights, WHY TRAVEL?” in PRINT!!

As an L.A. native and a professional traveler, I know getting a ride to LAX is rarely fun. But even I was tested in summer 2023 after an Uber and then a Lyft canceled on me when I needed to be at the airport in an hour and a half.

Trying not to throw up for fearing of missing my flight, I drove myself to the familiar parking lot next to the In-N-Out on Sepulveda. I checked in by app, photographed the spot so that later my dad and nephew could retrieve my car, and galloped to the airport shuttle. At the terminal, the woman who checked my bag said I got there in time ��� with 11 minutes to spare. I tried to think in pass/fail terms: I made it. I would board the plane to Loreto, Baja California, to go scuba diving.

After traveling to more than 100 countries and working on dozens of cruise ships for three companies, I have experienced not just sprints to the airport but also hurricanes, medical emergencies and helicopter evacuations. I���m used to the perpetual horror stories about flight delays, astronomical ticket prices and other challenges. What keeps me going ��� even more than opportunities to, say, swim with stingless jellyfish in Kakaban Island, Indonesia, or see a 380-foot Buddha statue near Monywa, Myanmar ��� is that nothing quite compares to the magic of unexpected connections that travel can bring.

On a trip to Israel, after my luggage got lost in transit, a fellow traveler who was joining my group excursion arranged to receive the daily contact lenses I desperately needed in the mail. One new friend shared a dress and another her curling iron.

The help from strangers has gone beyond the practical. To reinvent myself after my divorce, I challenged myself to complete 50 dares around the world before turning 50. Pursuing that challenge in Kenya, I met Maasai warriors who shared their jumping warrior dance. In return, with permission from their chief, I showed them how to Hula-Hoop. With each destination I visited and community I encountered, I felt small parts of myself that had numbed in recent years reengage. The world felt smaller and friendlier.

Some of my favorite encounters have happened by serendipity. At a restaurant in Upolu, Samoa, when I asked my waiter a few words in the local language, he translated a song for me. The next day I headed to the smaller island of Manono, and while walking around I saw elementary school children at recess. Their teacher encouraged them to say hello, talk to me in English and sing. They were thrilled when I could join along because they happened to belt out the song I���d learned at the restaurant the day before.

Yes, travel is pretty much always chaotic. It���s impossible to plan for every possible setback, though I have picked up tricks that make it easier. Although I made it to Israel with stops in Germany, Spain and Italy, my lost luggage inspired a discussion with other travelers about the objects we couldn���t live without (for Toni it was make-up; for Kaitlyn, special socks). I realized my contacts should always go in my carry-on next to my passport and Kindle.

I book my flights one way for flexibility. On return trips I often choose a different carrier depending on what is the most direct route and whether I want to arrive at LAX after the worst of rush hour traffic, or I might fly into the calmer Burbank airport. I use packing lists and remind myself that if I forget something, there will be a store. (Even in the ���vast expanse of nothingness��� on the way to the Gobi Desert in Mongolia, I found Costco���s Kirkland brand in the small stores of tiny towns.)

But ultimately, navigating the logistical maze of transportation issues, hotels and languages is a token toll for the thrill of joining with people for meals, songs, fashion and conversations I would never otherwise experience.

Perhaps my favorite perspective on travel comes from the stamp that Palau adds to the passports of visitors. It���s a contract, a pledge, they are asked to make to ���to act in an ecologically and culturally responsible way on the island, for the sake of Palau���s children and future generations of Palauans.���

I hope more destinations will adopt something like this as a reminder to care for one another���s homes as we do for our own. The opportunity to travel and be a guest in other countries has changed my life, and no amount of challenges or inconveniences can distract from that.

Lisa Niver is the author of the award-winning memoir ��� Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents, and Feeling Fearless After Fifty ,��� a travel TV host and  writer . @LisaNiver

On Los Angeles Times Facebook page: On Los Angeles Times Twitter:

Opinion: Why travel and suffer through LAX, flights, lost luggage? Here's one good reason (via @latimesopinion ) https://t.co/EwahiedOPQ

— Los Angeles Times (@latimes) December 18, 2024

Want more of my travel stories? Read my memoir, BRAVE-ish!

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On the hunt for Northern Lights, geothermal pools, and majestic glaciers in Iceland

Iceland’s wealth of lakes, rivers, and glacial lagoons are highlights of the island’s inimitable landscape.

Since it first landed on the radars of backpackers, hikers, and mountain climbers in the 1990s, Iceland travel has seen a 30 percent uptick, to the tune of nearly 2 million visitors per year. Over the past decade especially, the number of hotels and attractions have multiplied, as have the island���s opportunities for luxury vacations, a relatively new category in a country originally known for its budget-friendly adventures.

Even with all the best-of lists and glossy print magazine coverage, the Nordic country still feels like a place where you can get away from it all���sometimes far, far away���while still returning to cozy surroundings at night. This is an important distinction for me. While I love roughing it in the outdoors during the day, I���m not a camper. Having a ���home base��� where I can kick back, savor a great meal, and sleep in a snug bed is essential.

In November, I was invited by Hidden Iceland, a bespoke-tour operator, on a five-day trip highlighting the island���s singular landscape, from its glaciers to its geothermal pools, and its blossoming culinary scene, all with an eye toward the ease and comfort that makes luxury travel so desirable.��

Booking a tour with Hidden Iceland

Although any one of Hidden Iceland���s already-designed tours offer excellent options for exploring the island, I had a specific agenda: I wanted to go glacier hiking, see some of the Golden Circle highlights I���d missed on my last trip (in 2022, when I���d stayed in capital city Reykjavik for a few days), relax in geothermal pools, and chase the Northern Lights. So Hidden Iceland put together a three-day custom Iceland travel tour based on my interests, with a day in Reykjavik on either end.

Iceland travel: a four-star hotel, geothermal spa, and superb seafood

My husband, Floren, and I were picked up at Reykjavik���s Keflavik International Airport by a private car service arranged by Hidden Iceland���a huge improvement from my first trip to the city, when I navigated the city���s reliable and cost-effective, but sometimes confusing, bus system in order to make the 40-minute trip into the downtown.

Hallgr��mskirkja’s “pipe organ” facade was inspired by unique elements of the Icelandic landscape.

We rested for a couple hours at the Hotel Reykjavik Saga, a newer accommodation only steps from the banks of Lake Tj��rnin and its snow-globelike houses and churches, and about a half mile from Hallgr��mskirkja, the hilltop church whose 240-plus-foot-tall is tower visible from nearly everywhere in the capital city. Its ���pipe organ��� fa��ade was inspired by the glaciers, basalt cliffs, and craggy mountains we���d get a close look at over the next few days.��

In the afternoon, we headed for Sky Lagoon, a high-end mashup of Nordic bathing culture and spa treatments. (See We Said Go Travel founder Lisa Niver’s fun videos from our trip to Sky Lagoon, where we first crossed paths.) While the Blue Lagoon, overlooking Mount����orbj��rn, is the city���s better-known geothermal spa, it receives more tourist traffic. I���d visited Sky Lagoon on my 2022 trip, shortly after it opened, and knew a reprise would be ideal after a long flight.

The spa has become much more popular in the ensuing years, but it didn���t dull the soothing nature of Sky Lagoon���s calling card, its seven-step spa ritual: soaking in an oceanfront manmade geothermal infinity pool, followed by a cold plunge, sauna, cold ���rain��� shower, body scrub, herbal steam, and a final rinse before hopping back into the warm pool���with or without drinks at the swim-up bar. My only regret was that we didn���t have time to grab a bite in Sky Lagoon���s Smakk Bar, which gave me fond foodie memories on my first Iceland trip.

The seafood at Reykjavik’s Fiskf��lagi��, or The Fish Company, is so fresh, it’s practically still flapping.

We returned just in time to change and walk to dinner at Fiskf��lagi��, or The Fish Company. Fish and seafood are don���t-miss treats in Iceland, and The Fish Company���s menu offers a wealth of so-fresh-it���s-practically-still-flapping choices. Floren and I shared two appetizers���tuna tataki with roasted jalapeno puree, and a fried egg in a nest of shredded fried potatoes with ���rocks��� made of fried mushrooms and truffles���plus the superb seasonal sushi platter.

Three-day Iceland travel: glaciers, Northern Lights, Golden Circle Iceland’s Seljalandsfoss waterfall tumbles nearly 200 feet over a cliff and into a freezing pool of water.

In the morning, Ingimundur, our chatty, amiable Icelandic guide, picked us up at our hotel. Because of an oncoming winter storm, we set out a little earlier than planned, and headed straight for our first stop, about an hour and forty-five minutes from the city along the southern coast, at Seljalandsfoss. The river that feeds the nearly 200-foot waterfall���foss is Icelandic for ���waterfall������originates at the base of Eyjafjalljokull (kull means ���glacier��� in Icelandic), and tumbles dramatically over a cliff that was once at the island���s coastline.

It’s a stunning sight, and memorable experience to walk the path behind the cascade, as long as you don���t mind getting a little damp. Even in waterproof gear, which Hidden Iceland provided, the tumbling water, carried on Iceland���s bitter winter winds, will find its way into any opening in your hood or zipper. Is it worth enduring a soggy shirt for a couple hours? You bet.

Icelaand’s most powerful waterfall, Gullfoss is an awe-inspiring force of nature, even in freezing winter temperatures.

We visited several other waterfalls over the course of the tour, including Gullfoss. Here the water plunges into a canyon in two steep drops, creating spectacular raw power that was almost harnessed for hydroelectric power in the early 1900s, before a local farmer���s daughter mounted what would become one of the first conservation campaigns in Iceland.

Other stops included Reynisfjara, a beach whose black sands derive from volcanic lava, and are surrounded by basalt-column cliffs that look like staircases in a Dal�� painting. Legend says that the pair of sea stacks off the coast were once trolls who attempted to pull a ship into shore, and turned to stone when the light shone on them at dawn. We also walked around the Geysir geothermal area, where we captured video of an exploding geyser.

J��kuls��rl��n Glacier Lagoon, where miniature icebergs that have calved off from glaciers float, is worth a leisurely stop.

One of the highlights of Iceland travel for me was Brei��amerkursandur, an 11-mile strip of sand that wraps around Iceland���s coastline to the J��kuls��rl��n Glacier Lagoon. Here, miniature icebergs that have calved off from their glacial parents float around the lagoon, in spiky shapes and intense shades of blue and green, before pouring into a tidal river. The lagoon is also home to a number of seals, who surface with a snort before undulating back beneath the waves, or else sunbathe atop the little ���bergs.

The black-sand beach at Brei��amerkursandur is the perfect backdrop for glacial chunks that look like diamondesque sculptures.

The beach itself was littered with sculptural, shimmering ice, much of it tumbled into diamondlike facets. Some pieces were as small as baseballs, and others large enough for me to semi-recline on, like an awkward Hollywood siren trying to look glamorous on an uncomfortable divan. 

Glaciers were the undisputed centerpiece of my visit. Because of climate change, the ice masses are retreating worldwide. But in Iceland, some are advancing. The island remains one of the only locations where the average, non-mountain climbing Joe or Jane can experience a glacier.

The many outlet glaciers around Vatnaj��kull National Park make the ice caps accessible to almost everyone — not just experienced mountain climbers.

We visited one of the outlet glaciers���frozen channels that flow out of ice caps along the sides of a valley���emanating from the Vatnaj��kull glacier. At about 3,100 square miles, Vatnaj��kull covers 8 percent of Iceland, and is part of the eponymous Vatnaj��kull National Park, a stony, lunaresque landscape in the southwest corner of the island.

Getting to the glacier is the hardest part, and required a bumpy, seesawing ride in a decked-out super jeep over rough, pockmarked-and-potholed terrain. We had already been outfitted in belaying harnesses, which are used for rescue, should a visitor venture a little too far toward the edge of a fissure, and once we had hiked a couple hundred feet up the rocky side of the glacier, we donned crampons and pickaxes for better traction. Then we were off, stomping across the ice behind our guide, Jan, with Ingimundur pulling up the rear.

This ice cave was a small but memorable spot on our Iceland glacier hike.

We stopped at several points along the walk to observe, snap photos, and learn about the glaciers. We also tromped through a small but scenic ice cave, its pale blue walls glinting in the fading sunlight. In the midst of one of our discussions, a crackling sound brought conversation to a halt. Off in the distance, high up on the glacier���too far away to be a safety concern���sparkling chunks rained down in a small ice avalanche, a normal part of glacial formation and decomposition.

The great indoors: tomato greenhouses, Northern Lights sightings, and a superb private villa

Our Iceland travel also included a few indoorsy stops, including a meal and a visit to the national park museum in compact Vik, and lunch in the extensive Fri��heimar tomato greenhouses. As a volcanic island, Iceland is short on agriculturally viable soils. Greenhouse operations now supply nearly half of residents��� food.

The jazzy new wine bar at Fri��heimar tomato greenhouses in Selfoss, Iceland.

While the flavor of greenhouse tomatoes will never quite match the juicy brilliance of their sun-drenched Mediterranean cousins, Fri��heimar���s are tasty, and served up in a wide variety of soups, salads, and entrees. The greenhouse restaurant, where you dine surrounded by twelve-foot-tall tomato plants, is also a welcome respite from the freezing winter temperatures. Fri��heimar���s brand-new, adjacent wine bar, with its library wall, cozy armchairs, and plethora of indoor plants, is a relaxing, sunny delight, and serves excellent desserts.

H��tel J��kuls��rl��n, on a glacial lagoon, is ideally positioned for viewing the Northern Lights. In non-stormy weather, you can even do it from the cozy comfort of a hot tub.

Although you���re never guaranteed a Northern Lights sighting���it depends partly on aurora activity, and partly on the clarity of the night sky���I got my wish at H��tel J��kuls��rl��n, located on a glacial lagoon at the edge of Vatnaj��kull National Park. From our plush room, decorated in dark, moody hues, we eagerly peeked out the windows for a few hours. Finally, around 11:00 p.m., we gave up, and succumbed to sleep.

A little after midnight, the phone rang: ���The Northern Lights are visible in the sky,��� said a friendly female voice from the front desk, via the hotel���s Northern Lights wake-up service.

My first experience with the Northern Lights was a doozy: this ever-moving “river” of green flowed and twisted through the sky for nearly 15 minutes.

Right outside our window, a ribbon of electric green flowed and twisted like a sky-bound river. It lasted for only 10 or 15 minutes, but the bright color and near-constant movement were unmistakable, and easy to capture with a camera phone. We were later told that the ���show��� was even more spectacular from the other side of the hotel, but I didn���t feel cheated���especially given the single-digit temperatures and 30-mph winds that blustered around the lagoon, making it difficult to even walk outside, let alone steadily hold up a camera.

Our other accommodation during our Iceland travel included Hof Luxury Villa, a freestanding, style-forward hotel designed to complement the landscape. I loved the villa���s middle-of-nowhere location, in a remote valley of the already-remote Hella, as much as I adored its modern comforts: a spacious king suite, combination living room and dining area with a cozy fireplace, and glass-enclosed Northern Lights lounge, where you can gaze up at the night sky from the comfort of an upholstered settee.

Plan to stay more than a day at Hof Villa, where you can indulge in modern comforts, culinary excellence, and private Northern Lights viewing.

The culinary program at Hof Luxury Villa is led by G��sli Matth��as Au��unsson, owner of three Icelandic restaurants, and a gentle, warm presence. He prepared an exceptional three-course dinner for us, featuring seafood, pasta, and lamb, another Icelandic favorite, before bidding us good night.

There were no Northern Lights sightings that night, but my only real regret of the trip was that we arrived at Hof after 8:00 p.m., too late for anything but the leisurely dinner. This meant forgoing a soak in the private hot tub, or sweating it out in the sauna. If I had a do-over, I���d stay for at least two nights, and make sure I built in a few hours of R&R time per day for enjoying the accommodation���s welcoming amenities.

Bidding farewell to Iceland

On our final tour day, we braved the biting winds for a walk around ��ingvellir National Park. If the park, which is the site of the world���s first parliament, looks like something out of Game of Thrones, then it won���t surprise you to learn that it was a repeat filming location in season 4 of the hit series. Tucked into a rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, it���s a sampler platter of some of Iceland���s most memorable natural assets: waterfalls, rushing rivers, frozen lakes, Lego-brick cliffs, and trails that seem to meander off into eternity.

The brand-new Hvammsv��k Nature Resort and Hot Springs, along a fjord that feeds into the Atlantic Ocean, is a welcome respite to Iceland’s chilly winter temperatures.

Bringing our tour full circle, we paid a visit to the new Hvammsv��k Nature Resort & Hot Springs. It���s impossible to overstate the natural beauty of this spot, cradled along the southern lip of Hvalfj��r��ur��(���whale fjord,��� named for a legend of an elf woman who transformed her human lover, who denied he was the father of her child, into a red-headed whale). This inlet along the western coast of Iceland, cradled between snow-capped mountains, is so gorgeous, gazing at it evokes immediate serenity.

The property has eight hot springs. A few fluctuate with the temperature of the North Atlantic, from lukewarm to woah. Others stay warm, even hot. We dipped into four different pools���including the one adjacent to the resort���s restaurant, which has a swim-up bar���as we watched the sun disappear behind the peaks. After we���d rinsed off and changed, the staff of Hvammsv��k treated us to a selection of appetizers, including a seafood soup with a rich broth and chunks of fresh shellfish.

Ingimundur deposited us back in the Icelandic capital and Hotel Reykjavik Saga, where we relaxed downstairs with cocktails at Fr��ken Reykjav��k Kitchen & Bar, and plotted which attractions to see the next day using our Reykjavik City Card. The card offers free entry to nearly three dozen museums, galleries, and thermal pools.

The National Museum of Iceland covers the history and culture of the island.

In the morning, we walked less than a half mile to the National Museum of Iceland. Absorbing and well laid out, it deserves more attention than I could afford it in an hour���the amount of time I had before running a crucial Iceland travel errand: a stop at Omnom Chocolate, in the revitalized Grandi neighborhood, for their licorice-topped ice cream, plus our usual travel pilgrimage to a local grocery to shop for typical foods.

Northern Lights were in the forecast again, and although we didn���t see them a second time, what we took away from this trip was far more gratifying: a sense of the rare beauty and majesty of a country that, even two decades ago, wasn���t even considered a tourist destination, and an up-close look at some of the world���s rapidly disappearing glaciers. Even more indelible than the hundreds of pictures I took, what sticks with me are the singular moments���the roar of a waterfall, the wind slapping my cheeks as I stood atop an ice cap, the black sand of a volcanic beach whispering through my fingers, and lounging in a glass-walled room while stars began to blink to life in the night sky���that I won���t be able to duplicate anywhere else.

How To Get to Iceland I couldn’t have planned an image better than this one of a full moon rising over the mountain peaks.

For our Iceland travel tour, we flew out of Boston Logan Airport into Keflavik International Airport in Reykjavik, via Icelandair. Although it���s not technically a budget airline, Icelandair���s rates are often lower than that of its competitors. But you���ll need to shell out extra cash for almost everything, from a checked bag to seat selection and even snacks and meals. You won���t get so much as a bag of pretzels without paying for it.��

Meals need to be ordered in advance using the Icelandair website or app. We used our Priority Pass to relax in the Air France lounge before our flight, where we ate dinner���which included a respectable take on New England clam chowder���and filled up our water bottles before boarding.

Our departure flight was delayed by a few minutes, both on the departure and return, mostly because of the airline���s unusual policy of seating Saga Premier passengers first, followed by everyone else in a single, disorderly cattle call. Flight attendants were pleasant and helpful, especially when we requested blankets, which had not been placed on the seats for the return flight, despite frigid temperatures inside the aircraft. (How frigid? I kept my winter jacket on for all 5.5 hours!) The airline was kind to upgrade us to an exit row, which offered more leg room but was otherwise indiscernible from the rest of economy class.

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Breaking Boundaries: Celebrating My NAEJ Win and the Journey of Award-Winning Work

I���m thrilled to share that I WON in the Diversity in Entertainment category at the 2024 National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards for my podcast interview with Carolyn Ray of JourneyWoman!

What an absolute honor to be nominated FOUR times this year���and to now celebrate as a 9-time winner and 35-time finalist! I’m also deeply humbled to be nominated multiple times at both the NAEJ and Southern California Journalism Awards for Online Journalist of the Year.

This recognition means so much, and I���m incredibly grateful to the Los Angeles Press Club for not only celebrating my work but for the career-changing opportunities they���ve given me. From mentoring to networking and connecting with extraordinary people, they���ve been a transformative part of my journey.

I want to thank ALL of my incredible podcast guests���now spanning five seasons of Make Your Own Map! Each of you has brought unique perspectives, meaningful stories, and powerful insights to the mic, making this journey truly special. From Beth Santos and Carolyn Ray to Samantha Brown and beyond, you inspire me to keep asking questions and sharing stories that matter.

A HUGE thank you to the judges, my listeners, and everyone who continues to support my storytelling. My book has won awards, my podcast has won awards, and both my digital and print work have been recognized. I���m also excited to share that my YouTube channel has surpassed 2.25 million views���an incredible milestone that wouldn���t have been possible without you all.

I���m honored, inspired, and more motivated than ever to keep going! Here���s to continuing the journey and telling stories that connect us all.

What an honor to be nominated for online journalist of the year among these other incredible journalists: A3. Online Journalist of the Year ��� Independent Lisa Niver,  We Said Go Travel  J3. Diversity in the Entertainment Industry Lisa Niver, PODCAST: Make Your Own Map, ���Ageless Ambition: Inspirational Leadership of Carolyn Ray, JourneyWoman��� Lisa Niver, PODCAST: Make Your Own Map, ���Maximum Beth: Disrupting Travel for Women, Changing the Wander World Worldwide ��� A Community Builder���s Journey��� J5. One-on-One Interview, TV PersonalitiesLisa Niver, We Said Go Travel, ���Journey into the World of Wanderlust: Samantha Brown, Travel Goddess���  I also help with social media for LA Press Club—

Lisa Niver has won many awards! From 2017 to 2024, in the Southern California Journalism Awards and National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards, she has won nine times and been a finalist thirty-five times for a variety of broadcast, print, podcast and digital categories.

2024 Winner: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards Diversity in the Entertainment Industry 2024 4x Finalist : National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards finalist for Online Journalist of the Year, and for three of my podcast interviews with Beth Santos, Wanderful, Carolyn Ray, JourneyWoman, and Samantha Brown, Places to Love.2024 2x Winner: Southern California Journalism Awards for podcast segments with Samantha Brown, Places to Love, and Tony Phelan, A Small Light 2024 6x Finalist : Southern California Journalism Awards for Online Journalist of the Year, Podcast Host and for my podcast interviews with Andrew McCarthy, Samantha Brown, Tony Phelan and Christie Tate2023 Winner: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards Diversity in Entertainment2023 3x Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards2023 2x Finalist: Southern California Journalism Awards for Travel Reporting and Podcast Interview 2022 Finalist : Southern California Journalism Awards for BOOK CRITICISM2021 Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards for Commentary Diversity/Gender and Commentary Analysis/Trend ��� Film2021 Winner: Southern California Journalism Awards for  TECHNOLOGY REPORTING 2021 Finalist: Southern California Journalism Awards for BOOK CRITICISM2020 Winner: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards for Book Critic. See all of Lisa���s book reviews here.2020 Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards for Book Critic2020 Winner: Southern California Journalism Awards for print magazine article: Hemispheres Magazine for United Airlines2020 Five Time Finalist: Southern California Journalism awards2019 Winner: NAEJ Award for KTLA TV segment2019 Finalist: National Arts and Entertainment Journalism Awards in three categoriesCategory H2a. Soft News: Ms. Magazine: Polar Bears Can���t Vote So You Have ToCategory F6a. Soft News Feature ��� Under 5 Minutes���Film/TV: KTLA TV Oscars Countdown to Gold with Lisa NiverCategory C1b. Business, Music/Tech/Art: My Wharton Magazine article: Four Female Founders Share Their Origin Stories2019 Finalist: Southern California Journalism Awards for Broadcast Television Lifestyle Segment: Ogden Ski Getaway2018 Finalist for three categories of Southern California Journalism Awards:SCIENCE/TECHNOLOGY REPORTING: Smithsonian TRAVEL REPORTING: Popsugar FitnessPERSONALITY PROFILE: Saturday Evening Post2017 2nd place winner for Southern California Journalism Award Print Column ���A journey to freedom over three Passovers��� and finalist for Travel Reporting.

More about Lisa Niver: https://lisaniver.com/awards/

More about BRAVE-ish

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A California Coastal Celebration Aboard the Ruby Princess ��� Part Two

California Coastal Cruise: Los Angeles, San Diego and Ensenada

Sailing aboard the Ruby Princess was more than just a cruise; it was a celebration of life, connections, and California���s captivating coastline. Following the adventures of San Francisco and Santa Barbara, Part Two of this journey brought more ports and unforgettable celebrations. Marking my birthday aboard the Ruby Princess added a special layer to this adventure.

In Long Beach, I wandered the Naples Canals, marveling at the beautiful homes decked out for Halloween. The peaceful waterways and charming architecture were the perfect backdrop for dreaming of a future kayaking adventure in this picturesque neighborhood. The day ended with a stroll along the beach, sharing laughter and stories with my friend Lemor who hosted my book BRAVE-ish’s 1st birthday party at Small World Books!

San Diego took the celebration to new heights���literally! One of the highlights of the trip was soaring over the coastline with Corporate Helicopters. Cynthia and I, guided by our expert pilot Christian, were treated to an awe-inspiring view of La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Del Mar, and the Coronado Bridge. Seeing the Pacific Ocean���s shimmering waves, the golden beaches, and San Diego���s vibrant cityscape from above was an exhilarating experience. It wasn���t just sightseeing; it was a thrilling new perspective on one of my favorite cities, made even better by sharing it with a dear friend.

Earlier in the day, I embraced another adventure on the water with Speed Boat Adventures. Steering my own speedboat through San Diego Bay under Alex���s guidance, I felt a mix of adrenaline and awe. The views were spectacular���spotting the Ruby Princess from the water, passing the historic Maritime Museum ships, and catching sight of the iconic “Unconditional Surrender” statue. Playful sea lions added an extra touch of joy to the experience and now I can add CAPTAIN to my resume!

Ensenada, our final port, brought a more serene and reflective energy. Waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over the mountains was the perfect way to start the day. Julie, Alessio, and I spent a peaceful afternoon at a beach resort, basking in the warm sun and our day together.

Back on board, it was time for our Halloween celebrations. I attended the Most Traveled Members party before heading to dinner at Crown Grill with Captain Marco, Julie, and Alessio. Dressed as a vibrant rainbow butterfly, I felt completely immersed in the festive atmosphere. The combination of formal night elegance, delicious food, and great company made for an unforgettable evening.

As the cruise came to a close, I reflected on the magic of celebrating life at sea. Whether it was marking my birthday with adventures, marveling at California���s beauty from a helicopter, or laughing with friends during Halloween festivities, every moment on the Ruby Princess felt like a gift.

The journey ended as it began���with awe and gratitude. Watching the sun rise over San Francisco from my balcony, I felt a deep appreciation for the experiences this cruise had offered. Princess Cruises is the perfect place to celebrate life���s milestones, and this California Coastal voyage was one I���ll treasure forever���an unforgettable mix of adventure, relaxation, and the warmth of being surrounded by friends and family aboard the Ruby Princess.

Click here to read PART ONE: San Francisco and Santa Barbara

Wake up, Ruby Princess!

Wake up, Ruby Princess! The sunrise at the Port of Los Angeles was absolutely breathtaking. I loved starting each day of our cruise by watching the colors paint the sky from my balcony���it was a peaceful and magical way to greet every new adventure.

Naples Canals in Long Beach

Have you seen the Naples Canals in Long Beach? The gorgeous houses, beautifully decorated for Halloween, made it such a treat to explore. I can���t wait to come back and kayak here one day! Also loved strolling on the beach with Lemor���such a perfect way to enjoy this beautiful area

San Diego Sunrise

San Diego welcomed us with a breathtaking sunrise, its golden light streaming between the city���s iconic downtown skyscrapers. Every port has had its own unique beauty, and this view was no exception���a peaceful and inspiring start to the day. Watching it from the ship was unforgettable. The perfect way to prepare for adventures on the water and from above!

Speedboat Adventures in San Diego

Taking the helm of a speedboat in San Diego was a thrilling adventure that I���ll never forget. At first, I was a bit nervous���after all, I was the captain of my own boat! But Cynthia believed in me, and as I got the hang of steering and controlling the speed, my confidence grew, and the experience became pure joy. Zipping through the sparkling waters of San Diego Bay, we were treated to stunning views of the city. I spotted the majestic Ruby Princess, my home for the coastal California adventure with Princess Cruises, and marveled at the “Unconditional Surrender” statue, also known as the “Kissing Sailor” statue, standing tall near the USS Midway Museum. This 25-foot sculpture, inspired by an iconic photograph from V-J Day, perfectly captures the joy of celebration���just like I felt out on the water. The sights didn���t stop there. We passed the Maritime Museum���s historic ships and even caught glimpses of playful sea lions lounging on buoys. With the excellent guidance from Alex at Speed Boat Adventures, and their motto ���You���re in the driver���s seat! Speed Boat Tours with a twist,��� I felt like I���d experienced San Diego from a whole new perspective���one filled with speed, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Soaring Over San Diego: An Unforgettable Helicopter Adventure

While San Diego is often celebrated for its laid-back coastal vibes, it���s also the perfect city for an unforgettable adventure from above. Cynthia and I recently joined Corporate Helicopters for their 42-minute ���Unforgettable Tour��� and got a breathtaking bird���s-eye view of San Diego���s iconic landmarks. From the Del Mar Racetrack, Pacific Beach Pier, and the historic Pt. Loma Lighthouse to the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, Coronado Bridge, Petco Park, and Balboa Park, we soared past over 20 of San Diego���s top attractions. With instructor-pilot Christian guiding the way, this aerial adventure showcased the city���s beauty in a way I���ve never seen before���truly unforgettable.

San Diego from The Sky with Corporate Helicopters

In San Diego, Cynthia and I soared above the coastline on an unforgettable helicopter ride with Corporate Helicopters. With our expert pilot, Christian, guiding us, we took in breathtaking views of iconic spots like Del Mar, La Jolla, Torrey Pines, and the Coronado Bridge. Seeing these landmarks from the sky was a completely new experience. The Pacific Ocean���s deep blues, the sprawling sandy beaches, and the glittering urban skyline were absolutely jaw-dropping. It wasn���t just sightseeing���it was an exhilarating adventure that gave me a fresh perspective on one of my favorite destinations. I absolutely loved every moment of this incredible ride!

Ensenada: Sunrise to Sail away

Ensenada marked our last port of call on the Ruby Princess during our California coastal cruise. Waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over the mountains was the perfect way to start the day. Julie, Alessio, and I enjoyed the serene atmosphere and soaking up the sun at a local resort. We returned to the ship for Halloween festivities and formal night���this whole week has been filled with friends, new adventures, and cherished moments with great company.

Halloween celebrations on Ruby Princess

Princess Cruises is the perfect place to celebrate with countless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. I celebrated my birthday all week long, and for Halloween, I dressed up as a butterfly. The celebrations continued at Crown Grill and Captain Marco, Julie, Alessio and I enjoyed the delicious food and excellent service on the Ruby Princess.

Formal Fun on the Ruby Princess

So fun to have a reason to dress up! The Captain���s Welcome Party was magical, featuring the iconic champagne tower and a surprise birthday cake just for me! It���s so great to be back onboard with my friends���working at sea for Princess Cruises was an amazing chapter of my life, and it���s such a joy to now experience it all as a guest. Feeling celebrated and grateful for this unforgettable night at sea.

Ruby Princess: Bridge tour and Sunrise San Francisco

On our final sea day, I was invited to visit to the bridge, where I got a glimpse of the incredible work that keeps the Ruby Princess running smoothly. Before we disembarked in San Francisco, I watched the sun rise for a final time from my balcony over the bridge ���a perfect week filled with celebrations, adventures, and memories to last a lifetime. Thank you Captain Marco and #PrincessCruises

Flying from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Leaving SFO for LAX, I found myself reminiscing about my incredible California coastal cruise aboard the Ruby Princess. Just as I treasure the views from a window seat on a flight, I cherished every moment on my balcony at sea. From breathtaking sunrises to the soothing sound of the waves, it was the perfect vantage point to soak in the beauty of the coast���whether in the sky or on the water. Thanks to #Delta @Delta for the safe flight and @princesscruises for my wonderful #cruise!

Did you know I used to work for Princess Cruises? Read more about my adventures in my award-winning memoir, Brave-ish: One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty

MAJESTIC PRINCESS:

I loved my Alaskan Summer Cruise��on the Marvelous Majestic Princess. Read about cruising Alaska���s Inner Passage��in 2021.

For Spring Break April 2022, I went on the��magnificent Majestic Princess��to Mexico! Read my article on the ship.��

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