Finding Your Perfect Break—Whether Home, Away, or Just Next Door

Let’s face it: life moves fast, and sometimes you just need to hit pause and catch your breath. But when it comes to taking time off, there’s more than one way to recharge your batteries—and each option brings its own flavor of fun (and challenges!).


Staycation: Max Relax, Minimal Hassle

Ever dreamed of being on vacation... without packing a single suitcase or braving airport security? Welcome to the staycation! This is all about swapping hotel room keycards for the comfort of your own home. No flight delays, no rental cars, no wallet-emptying expenses—just your favorite PJs, your own coffee mug, and maybe a local spot you’ve always meant to check out. But heads up: your to-do list might try to crash the party! Home can be full of sneaky chores and half-finished projects. The trick? Shut out the distractions, and don’t feel guilty about putting your feet up.


The Classic Vacation: Pack Your Bags and Let’s Go!

Craving that “see you later, real world!” feeling? The traditional vacation is your golden ticket. Think new cities, sandy beaches, fresh mountain air—whatever calls your name. You’ll be racking up memories (and maybe a few souvenirs), totally free from your regular routine. Of course, adventures like these aren’t always cheap. Airfare, hotels, eating out, and activities can quickly add up. Plus, coordinating logistics can be its own type of workout (I can help with that!). Still, it’s hard to beat the thrill of a true escape.


The ‘Backyard’ Vacation: The Best of Both Worlds

Not sure you want to go far, but craving a little change of scenery? Meet the ‘backyard’ vacation. This mini-getaway style is all about exploring gems just a short drive away—usually within two or three hours from home. Book a cozy place for a night or two, try out a cute nearby town, or soak in some nature. You’ll get that “I’m away from it all” feeling, minus the travel headaches and big price tags—and you won’t be tempted to fold laundry on your day off!


No matter how you like to unwind—whether you’re a homebody, a globe-trotter, or somewhere in between—there’s a perfect way to take a break. So go ahead: pick your adventure and make the most of your time off!


Choosing the Right Escape

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal needs, budget, and ability to disconnect from everyday life. If finances are tight, a staycation or local trip can still offer meaningful rest and enjoyment. For those seeking complete separation from routine—and if resources allow—a longer vacation might be just what you need. The key is to be intentional about setting boundaries, whether that means ignoring your to-do list during a staycation, or carefully budgeting for travel to avoid post-vacation stress.


Tips for a Successful Break, Whatever You Choose
  • Staycations: Time off can be used similarly to a vacation. Scheduling enjoyable activities or relaxation and temporarily setting aside daily responsibilities, just as you would if you were away, may create a sense of escape.
  • Traditional Vacations: I recommend planning well in advance and creating a travel budget. Consider traveling during off-peak times or exploring alternative accommodations to help stretch your funds further. I can help you find the right fit.
  • ‘Backyard’ Vacations: Let’s discover local destinations you’ve never explored. Booking a night or two away—even nearby—can truly enhance your sense of escape. By using my help to coordinate your short getaway you can maximize value and really set the mood as a true vacation. I can recommend hidden gems nearby, suggest unique experiences, and help coordinate your short getaway to maximize value and enjoyment.


In the end, taking time for yourself—whether at home, abroad, or somewhere in between—is vital. 

No matter which option fits your life right now, remember that dedicating time for yourself is essential. With creativity, thoughtful planning, and expert guidance, your next escape can offer the renewal you deserve. If you’d like help designing your perfect getaway—whether abroad or somewhere in between—I’m here to help every step of the way.

Ready to start planning? Let’s create your next memorable adventure together.

Contact Me

Window Seats & Wanderlust

By Sharon Bridge • November 1, 2025
🚂 Why Train Travel Might Be the Most Underrated Joyride in America Let’s bust a myth right out of the station: train travel isn’t just for European backpackers or vintage movie buffs. In fact, hopping aboard a train might just be the most relaxing, scenic, and soul-satisfying way to explore the U.S.—especially if you’re craving a slower pace, a window seat to wonder, and zero baggage fees (looking at you, airlines). Whether you're planning a girls’ getaway, a solo soul-search, or a cozy couple’s escape, here’s why train travel deserves a spot on your itinerary: 🌄 1. The Journey Is the Destination Unlike planes that whisk you above the clouds or cars that demand your full attention, trains let you see the country. Think rolling vineyards, misty mountains, sleepy towns, and golden fields—all from a wide window with a cup of coffee in hand. It’s like watching a living postcard unfold in real time. Bonus: no need to navigate, refuel, or reroute. Just sit back and let the rhythm of the rails do its thing. 🧘‍♀️ 2. Stress-Free Vibes, All Aboard No TSA lines. No middle seats. No “your gate has changed for the third time” announcements. Train stations are often centrally located, boarding is a breeze, and you can arrive minutes—not hours—before departure. Once on board? Stretch out. Walk around. Grab a snack from the café car. Or just curl up with a book and let the gentle sway lull you into a state of pure travel zen. 🧳 3. Pack What You Want (Within Reason) Most trains have generous baggage allowances—often two carry-ons and two checked bags for free. That means you can bring your favorite boots and that extra bottle of wine from Napa without playing suitcase Tetris. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 4. Built-In Bonding Time Train travel is surprisingly social. Whether you're catching up with your besties over wine in the observation car or striking up a convo with a fellow traveler, there’s something about the shared rhythm of the ride that invites connection. Planning a girls’ trip? A train car becomes your mobile lounge. No one’s stuck driving, and everyone gets to enjoy the ride. 🌎 5. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly Trains are one of the most sustainable ways to travel, with a lower carbon footprint than flying or driving. And with flexible fares, rail passes, and discounts for students, seniors, and groups, it can be surprisingly affordable—especially when you factor in the savings on gas, parking, and hotel nights (hello, overnight sleeper cars!). 🚫 6. No Sketchy Pit Stops Required Let’s be honest: road trips can be fun… until someone needs a bathroom break in the middle of nowhere. Train travel skips the whole “seedy gas station” and “greasy spoon with one Yelp star” experience. Onboard restrooms? Clean and accessible. Café car? Stocked with snacks, drinks, and actual tables. Better yet bring your own picnic! You can sip wine, nibble on cheese, and never once wonder if the bathroom key is attached to a hubcap. 💡 Train Travel Tip: Try Your Luck with Amtrak’s Bid Up Feeling fancy? Amtrak’s Bid Up program lets you name your price to upgrade to Business Class or a Roomette. After booking your ticket, you might get an email inviting you to bid for an upgrade. If your offer wins, you’ll enjoy extra space, priority boarding, and other perks—without paying full price. It’s like travel roulette, but with legroom and free coffee. ✨ Final Boarding Thoughts Train travel invites you to slow down, look out the window, and fall in love with the in-between. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about rediscovering the joy of the journey itself. So next time you're planning a trip—whether it’s a weekend escape to a charming small town or a cross-country adventure—consider trading the fast lane for the rail line. Your future self (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.

How to Make the Most of a Holiday Layover in the U.S. (Yes, Even During Peak Travel Season)

By Sharon Bridge • October 10, 2025
Holiday layovers (or layovers in general) in the U.S. don’t have to be a travel nightmare. With the right mindset—and the right airport—you can turn that in-between time into a moment of joy, discovery, or at least a decent meal. Whether you’re stuck for two hours or six, here’s how to make the most of your layover without losing your holiday cheer. 🛫 1. Pick a Layover-Friendly Airport (If You Have a Choice) Some U.S. airports are practically destinations in themselves. If you’re booking flights with a layover, aim for one of these traveler-approved gems: San Diego International (SAN): Wine bar, 36 restaurants, and easy access to downtown beaches Denver International (DEN): Art installations, outdoor terraces, and 500+ shops & restaurants Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP): High passenger satisfaction, comfy seating, and local eats Seattle-Tacoma (SEA): Pacific Northwest charm, live music, and great dining Austin-Bergstrom (AUS): Local BBQ, live music, and a laid-back vibe Nashville International (BNA): Close to downtown, hotel access, and Southern hospitality Myth to bust: All layovers are stressful. Not true—some airports are so well-designed, you’ll wish your flight was delayed. 🎒 2. Pack Smart for the Pause Your carry-on is your layover lifeline. Include: Portable charger (outlets are competitive real estate) Cozy layers (terminal temps are unpredictable) Reusable water bottle (hydration stations are everywhere now) Snacks (bonus points for festive treats) Entertainment (downloaded shows, podcasts, or a holiday read) 🧘‍♀️ 3. Recharge Your Body and Brain Seek out quiet zones, lounges, or even nap pods. Many airports offer: Meditation rooms (SEA, DEN) Spa services (MSP, SFO) Family play areas (DEN has five!) Sharon’s tip : Use apps like LoungeReview to find hidden gems for rest and relaxation. 🍷 4. Taste the Region Skip the generic food court. Try local flavors: BBQ in Austin (AUS) Seafood chowder in Boston (BOS) Craft beer in Portland (PDX) Gumbo in New Orleans (MSY) Snap pics, rate dishes, and share your finds—your readers will love the foodie angle. 🏙️ 5. Got Time? Explore Nearby If your layover is 6+ hours and the airport is near the city, consider a quick excursion: San Diego (SAN): Beaches and harbor views are minutes away Washington D.C. (DCA): Monuments and museums via Metro Nashville (BNA): Honky-tonks and hot chicken just 7 miles out Pro move : Set alarms and leave buffer time for security and boarding. 🎁 6. Be the Holiday Hero Use the downtime to: Wrap gifts (some airports offer gift-wrapping stations) Write postcards Pick up local souvenirs Organize travel photos for your blog or socials ✨ Final Boarding Thought Holiday layovers in the U.S. don’t have to be a drag. With a little prep and a playful mindset, they can become part of the adventure. So next time you’re stuck between flights, channel your inner travel elf and make the most of the moment.
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