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Ko Samui, Thailand: Amazing Jungle Adventures
The adventure in Ko Samui was definitely a great day! Surrounded by the beautiful natural jungles all day, the experience was awesome. The day stands out in my mind as a favorite! The tour that we took was careful to not take harm the natural resources.
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Quick and Easy Guide to Get To Know Southeast Asia
Our itinerary for Southeast Asia included Singapore, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. It was a 32-day cruise with overnights in several ports—a distinct culture in each.
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Singapore, the Lion City and Home of the Singapore Sling
Singapore was the first stop on a month-long adventure through South East Asia. After departing, we visited four other countries, experiencing one incredible adventure after another.
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Cruise Through Your Gap Year!!!
A gap year is typically a year-long break between secondary school and college but sometimes after graduating from undergraduate study and before beginning graduate school or the workforce. During the gap year, a person normally travels or performs some type of regular work.
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The Absolute Best of 2023 Travel Destinations!
Belaboring on the point of post-pandemic travel, people have changed attitudes towards traveling. They are looking for ways to save money, have unique experiences, and positively impact the destinations that they travel to.
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New Digital Opportunities When Traveling to the Eu and the Uk!
Whether you are a seasoned traveler or an infrequent traveler, you have probably experienced long waits and frustration when trying to pass through border control in foreign countries. After a long-haul flight, the last thing you want is to stand in line and feel like you are herded cattle.
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The Most Fabulous Global Dream Destinations for Nature Lovers!
Everyone has their idea of the perfect vacation. Some people travel for cultural vacations or romantic getaways. Others travel seeking the best beaches in the world. Still others travel for adventure. There are countless reasons people travel but in this article, we will discuss travel for adventure
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A Fabulous New Discovery in Europe's Glorious Pindus Mountains
The Pindus mountains are known as the "Spine of Greece" with the range running along the border of northern Greece and Southern Albania. This mountain range has an intriguing history and holds a special place in my heart. The most recent discovery in this remote area adds to the intrigue.
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Top Ten Most Romantic Destinations in the World
With Valentines Day and June weddings approaching, I think it is wise to explore romantic destinations. But, what is a romantic destination? Don't we all have different views of romance?
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Halkidiki, Greece: All You Need to Know About This Hotspot
Halkidiki, Greece has been a popular summer tourist spot for decades since people from Thessaloniki started spending their summer holidays in the beautiful coastal villages. As the secret of this lovely region spread, more and more tourists began flocking.
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The Love at Montmartre Casts a Glorious Shadow Over Paris
When we think of Paris, we often think of lovers and artists on the banks of the Seine, and famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. But how many of us associate Montmartre?
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Exploring the Arc de Triomphe & Spokes of the Champs Elysees
On my first day visiting Paris, I spent time exploring the Arc de Triomphe and the entirety of the sprawling Champs Elysees around it, all the while practicing being a flâneur.
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An Awesome "How To" Gift the Gift of Travel!
The Gift of Travel is one that comes with different benefits to different people. For the giver, it brings up a number of questions, and for the receiver an equal number.
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Christmas in Paris, The Amazing Louvre! Day 5
Where had the time gone? It was my last day in Paris... The Louvre. Wow! Overwhelming doesn't capture the feeling of magnificence I found! However, let me not confuse you. Overwhelming can be good or bad and it was, no doubt, both!
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Spending Christmas in Paris Had Been a Childhood Dream! Day 4
So far, the trip had been awesome! My dream of spending Christmas in Paris was all I had hoped it would be! Having done pre-trip research, I learned that most everything would be closed on Christmas Day, so, other than a dinner reservation, the day remained unplanned.
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A Spectacular Christmas Eve in Paris! Day 3
My time in Paris was flying by and Christmas Eve came before I knew it! Aside from the plan to visit the Arc de Triomphe, the day had surprises along the way!
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The Eiffel Tower, Dinner Cruise and Other Adventures! Day 2
Day 2 was a brilliant success! So far, Paris with everything I had hoped for and dreamed of!
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A Christmas Adventure in Paris! Day 1
Not unlike many girls, I grew up with a desire to visit Paris, my vision of the City of Lights included walking along the Seine River, visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Champs Elysees. I dreamed of artists and fashion, women walking poodles, and endless coffee time at outdoor cafes.
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Christmas in Paris and What You Need to Know?
Christmas in Paris? Yes, please! As an American ex-pat having lived in Europe, traveling had its advantages; the flights are short since it's like flying from St. Louis to Dallas, and with no jet lag, you hit the ground running.
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Travel to Paris With Me!! The City of Lights Was Amazing!
If you have visited the City of Lights before, I'm hoping this will trigger wonderful memories and inspire another visit. If you've not been, I'm hoping you will be so intrigued that you will be on the phone with your travel agent, booking your very own Parisian adventure!
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How Do you Prepare for the Trip of a Lifetime to Paris?
The time is near and my trip to Paris, France is right around the corner! I'm told that there’s whimsical magic on a trip to Paris at Christmas when the City of Lights is lit even brighter by millions of twinkling lights. Each of Paris’ arrondissements has something festive going on.
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Stumped on Where to Travel in 2023? Top Tips To Help!
Looking forward to traveling in the new year of 2023? Most people are! And, it's no wonder. 2023 will be the first year in a while where travelers won't be facing daunting travel restrictions. With such a glorious world having fabulous destinations, are you stumped on where to travel?
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Will the New Schengen Zone Travel Rules Affect You?
Since 1985, traveling in and out of the Schengen Zone required nothing but showing up with a passport; that's all about to change! Read on to discover how this will affect your travel to most European countries in 2023.
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Batumi, Georgia: Hidden Treasure of the Black Sea!
Batumi is the second-largest city in Georgia and the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Adjara. It is on the Black Sea on the southwest side of Georgia. It is located on the site of the ancient Greek colony in Colchis called Bathus, or Bathys, which means “deep harbor”.
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Best 5-Minute White Chocolate Almond Bark Ever!
When I am not traveling or writing, I love to cook and create my own recipes. This recipe for White Chocolate Almond Bark is fabulous and only takes five minutes! I ask you, what is better than a quick and easy recipe that doesn't trash your kitchen? And, I have honestly made this in hotel rooms.
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Living in Albania, a Balkan Treasure
I lived in Albania and was able to explore the country's diverse and stunning geography, the metropolitan areas, and, of course, shop! Here are my recommendations for your trip to Albania.
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Route 66: Americana Road Trip With Mapping and Travel Tips
My husband, two dogs, and I took nearly a month-long road trip generally following the historic Route 66. Read on to hear about our adventures—we coordinated the entire trip without a GPS!
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San Francisco: The City of the Golden Gate, Fog, and Love!
San Francisco is another one of those destinations that have special meaning to me. The Golden Gate Bridge and Lombard Street are just a few of the places I'll recount from my travels to the city.
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Running With the Night in NYC, Pro Travel Tips, and More
In love with the man of my dreams, we decided to take a trip together. NYC was our destination with a piggyback journey to DC. We eventually married and made yearly trips to the Big Apple.
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Florence, Italy, Is Like a Outdoor Museum; Walk With Me!
The first time I was in Times Square, I couldn't see everything fast enough! The lights and signage put me on total sensory overload! Fast forward to Florence, Italy. Sans the lights and signage, it was the same child-like wonderment.
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The Stunning Waters of Albania (And Insider Tips for Visiting)
Recently, Albania has emerged on the tourism radar with its old-world charm. The topography is diverse, giving way to mountains, lakes, rivers, pristine beaches, and cities.
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Sailing Into Venice With a Bellini in Hand Is Heavenly!
Sailing into Venice whilst listening to Puccini's La Boheme with a Bellini in hand is like Heaven on Earth! Venice is so cliche—but a must-see for travelers!
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Observing Simplicity, Politeness, and Equality in Copenhagen's Culture
I spent time in Copenhagen as part of a pre-cruise excursion. The Tivoli Gardens, The Little Mermaid, and taking a canal cruise were great. I also spent time in cafes chatting with locals and getting a feel for their beautiful city and lifestyles.
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Navigating the Most Popular Neighborhoods of Merida, Mexico
Merida, Mexico, located in the Yucatan Penisula is considered the safest and cleanest city in Mexico it has earned the nickname "White City." It's known for its cenotes, colorful Mayan culture, and beautiful neighborhoods.
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Merida, Mexico: The Honest Truth of Life as an Expat!
I've read articles stating that Merida, Mexico, is considered to be in the top 10 international destinations. Having lived there for a while, I thought I would bring this cultural city on Yucatan Peninsula to life for you.
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The Ultimate Road Trip: 4 Friends, 14 Days, 10 National Parks, 5860 Miles!
It all started with four friends chatting it up one day. One said, "Let's go on a trip." The other said, "Yes, a road trip!" Another said, "The ultimate road trip!" and the fourth said, "Let it be said, let it be done!".
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Finding Tranquility on the Island of Corfu, Greece
Corfu (Kerkyra), Greece, is across the bay from Saranda, Albania, my home for a couple of years. Depending on the weather, it looks as if you can throw a baseball and reach the island with little effort.
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How I Found Out About the Secret Tunnel of the Sistine Chapel
Travel is always an adventure, and my first attempt to experience Vatican City, The Sistine Chapel, and St. Peters Basilica was truly an adventure!
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The Very Real Drama and Controversy Behind the Sistine Chapel!
I have to admit after my last time in the Sistine Chapel, I approached my entry with trepidation. Determined to see what I missed the last time, I set foot in the chapel. Stopping dead in my tracks, my head whirling with the vision in front of me, the tears of joy flowed! Wow!
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Can You Successfully Re-Pat After the Ex-Pat Expereince?
Life is a journey that we find ourselves traveling through each day. I believe that we can compare relationships, experiences, and seasons of life to destinations; in a sense, they are like places we visit when traveling. With at in mind, a few years ago, I made a major lifestyle change.
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Barcelona: A Modern City Living Its History Everyday
Barcelona! Wow, where to start? It's a city that lives its history every day yet offers a modern lifestyle. I have been to Barcelona many times and can honestly say that I haven't even begun to see all that it has to offer!
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Which Two Famous Stars Had an Affair in Antibes?
If you are one to engage in a love affair, then Antibes, with all its beauty is the perfect romantic hideaway! There are two famous people, whose affair was global, that included Antibes in their shenanigans. Who are they? Inquiring minds want to know!
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Just Like Rome Wasn't Built In a Day, You Can't See It in a Day!
Rome, the Eternal City, is without a doubt, a fabulous city! I have been there several times and it seems to be like a fine wine; better with age!
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An Amazing Journey Through Renaissance Art at St. Peter's Basilica!
A lover of magnificent Renaissance Art, recently, I was able to spend ample time exploring St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museum, and the Sistine Chapel. It took ten years later to get back but this time, I had the time of my life! The wait was worth it!
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The Amalfi Coast: A Dream That Isn’t Quite Real
John Steinbeck described Positano as "a dream place that isn't quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone." I believe you could describe the entire Amalfi coast in this way!
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The Je Ne Sais Quoi Feel of Cagliari, Sardinia
Cagliari is the capital of the island Sardinia in Italy. Considered the cultural capital of the area, it's noted for its art nouveau architecture and long and diverse history, it has become a popular destination on cruise and land-based travel itineraries.
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The Most Picturesque Ride on the Flåm Railway in Norway
Flåm, Norway, was a port of call on our cruise through Europe. It's a small village located on the Sognefjorden, the largest fjord in Norway. Then, we got to take a stunning ride through the village on the Flåm Railway!
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The Absolutely Perfect Hack for Spending Time at the Louvre
Originally built as a palace for Phillip II, the Louvre is the most visited museum in the world. Holding a prominent spot in French history, this massive campus is located on the right bank of the Seine River.
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Experience the Absolute Best of Bergen, Norway in 7 Hours!
The next stop on the cruise was Bergen, the second largest city in Norway. My pre-trip research had warned me of the cool, misty days this location often has, so we were prepared with warm clothes and waterproof outerwear.
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The Eiffel Tower: Fun Facts and a Fantastic Virtual Tour
The Eiffel Tower, or The Iron Lady, is a must-see in Paris. How can you visit the city without spending time at this iconic landmark? Even if you lack the time to actually go up it, don't worry, you can view it from most places in the city.
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My Embarrassingly Horrible Expat Secret Exposed in Palma de Mallorca!
I didn't know I would betray myself when I disembarked the ship in Palma de Mallorca! And to make my self-betrayal worse, it was in front of my traveling companion! Before I tell you what happened, let's talk a bit about Palma de Mallorca.
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What Is the Best Way to Experience Rome?
Rome is one of my favorite cities in Europe! I have been many times and every time I find something new and interesting. I've seen Rome on foot, by a private driver, and by tour but find the best way to experience it is using a multi-stop, self-guided tour bus!
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How Ephesus, Turkey Launched Me Into the World of Travel
As I have mentioned in previous articles, I've traveled since I was 5 years old but as an adult, it approached epic proportions in 2010 when I came to find Ephesus, Turkey!
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All the Tea in China! But What About the Tea in Turkey?
The drinking of teas in Turkey is not only a social ritual but has a substantial economic impact on the country. Turkey is the 5th largest exporter of tea globally, but at the same time, the nationals are the largest consumer in the world; with an average of seven pounds per person annually.
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How to Preserve Your Travel Memories with the Best Souvenirs!
With years of travel under my belt, I have found some pretty cool ways to preserve my travel memories with the best possible souvenirs! In this article, I'm going to share my tried and true methods of choosing souvenirs and what to do with them when you get home.
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The Very Best Walking Tour of Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and Heraklion is the largest city on the island. I have been traveling to Greece since I was very young but recently I had the pleasure of visiting Crete for the first time.
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The Fabulous Views of Croatia From the Eyes of Elisona!
I wanted to show you what and how she sees things; A bird's eye view of the world, the way Elisona experiences it.
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Rakia, the National Balkan Drink: Traditions, Facts & More
In many Balkan countries, rakia is considered to be the national drink. The beverage is made by distilling fermented fruit.
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Dubrovnik, Croatia: A Historic Treasure on the Adriatic Sea
Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a historic and fascinating city that will beckon you to return each time you leave. Here are some of my favorite places as well as some history on the fascinating city.
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Traditional Athens at It's Best! Take the Plaka Walking Tour
Athens has a history like no other city. In my opinion, it's one of the coolest places in the world! There is a spectacular mix of the ancient and the modern worlds in every step you take!
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Visiting Meteora, Greece, a Heavenly Experience
I've had the privilege of visiting Meteora, Greece, where my family lives, three times, and each time was wonderful and spiritual!
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A Fantastic Impromptu Trip to Athens via Corfu
In September, I took an impromptu trip to Athens for a few days. Here's a bit about my adventure; it involves shopping, historical sites, and a few tips for navigating Athens.
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Thessaloniki, the Ouzeri Capital of Greece
Thessaloniki is near and dear to my heart. Not only do I still have family there, but it is the region of Greece where my father came from. Here's what you should take the time to do.
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Off the Beaten Path Destination, Metsovo, an Unforgettable Mountain Retreat!
Metsovo is a small charming village in Greece tucked away in the Pindos Mountains, rich in fascinating history and a year-round haven for activity! I have had the privilege of visiting twice and both times were an absolute pleasure!
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Relaxing in Crete!!!
My heritage is Greek and I have been to Greece 11 times but, this was my first time in Crete and it was fabulous! I am already planning a return trip in the Spring as a piggyback to my trip to Egypt.
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Villefranche, France: One of the Top Ten Cruise Destinations
A couple of years ago, when cruising the Mediterranean, by happenstance, I ended up in Villefranche for a couple of hours. It was absolutely lovely. The port stop was Monaco, but I had been there twice and decided to take the train to Nice.
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What's the Best Way to Experience Marseilles?
I've been to Marseilles a few times.The first time I visited Marseilles, I was not impressed. It seemed to be just another port city. Being close to the end of a long cruise, perhaps, I was just too tired to enjoy the city? However, I had a fabulous time and came away with a whole new impression.
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More of Monaco, the Playground of the Rich and Famous! And, Me?
I briefly covered the history of this sovereign state, discussed the "Curse of the Grimaldis", and outlined the Monaco of today. I also shared my James Bond-ish adventure on my first visit. Today, I will discuss, in more detail, the attractions or must see places of Monaco.
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Monaco, the Playground of the Rich and Famous and, Perhaps, Me?
I grew up with the story of the movie actress, Grace Kelly, marrying the handsome prince, Rainer, and becoming the Princess of Monaco. With role models like Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty, I thought this was a real life fairy tale. My dream came true the first time I visited the country!
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Walking Tour of Paris!
A dear friend shared this walking tour with me. Now, in turn, I would like to pass it on to you. I'm definitely going to do this tour on my trip! Yes, by this time tomorrow, I will be walking the streets of Paris and I can't wait to share my experience with all of you!
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Pompeii a Horrible Disaster Waiting to Happen or Just Bad Luck?
I remember learning about Pompeii when I was in grade school and thinking about those poor people who were burned alive. Never in a million years did I ever think I would get the opportunity to visit, not once, but twice! Pompeii is relatively close to Sorrento, Rome and to Naples.
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The Amazing Story of Florence's Ponte Vecchio Bridge
The historic Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, Italy, has a dramatic history dating back hundreds of years. The story is one worth hearing.
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Is It Possible for This City Girl to Survive the Wild South African Bush?
After spending an incredible few days in Cape Town, it was time to move on to the next leg of the journey, Kruger National Park in Hoedspruit, South Africa.
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How to Survive Victoria Falls like a Pro!
Traveling to South Africa had been a long, adventurous journey! The final leg of the trip took me to Zambia and Zimbabwe to see the magnificent Victoria Falls!
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The Beginning of an Incredible Journey to South Africa!
Deciding to go to South Africa was a big deal. It was the fulfillment of a dream that I had never thought possible! The trip was 31 days and required a ton of planning. Getting from the United States to South Africa is no small undertaking and definitely not for the faint of heart!
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Wow! Are There Really Diamonds in Cape Town, South Africa?
We would be in Cape Town for four days. I was looking forward to Robben Island, The Winelands, Diamonds (because they really are a girl's best friend!). We would also go to the top of Table Mountain and experience the winds of The Cape of Good Hope.