Travel

There’s something about the Westside of Los Angeles that feels like its own little world—breezy, sun-soaked, and just the right blend of relaxed and electric. It's not trying too hard, and yet, it quietly offers some of the best food, views, and hidden gems LA has to offer.

As the summer sun paints the sky with hues of gold and azure, the lure of the ocean becomes more tempting than ever. Yet, for many of us, the thought of crowded beaches buzzing with tourists is far from the tranquil beachside retreat we desire.

Taking a vacation is hands down one of the best ways to reward yourself after grinding away for the other 50 weeks of the year. I’ve learned that it doesn’t have to break the bank, either. Over the years, I’ve mastered the art of scoring free travel perks, and trust me — nothing feels better than a flight upgrade you didn’t pay for or a free hotel stay.

A few months ago, I found myself scrolling through flight deals while eating leftover takeout in sweatpants—classic. The deals were tempting. The wanderlust was real. But my bank account? Less so.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that you don’t need a two-week vacation to feel completely refreshed. Sometimes, a perfectly planned 48-hour getaway is exactly what you need to hit reset — without rearranging your entire life schedule.

If you ask me, travel is the ultimate life teacher. It shakes up routines, introduces you to new cultures, and leaves you with stories you’ll tell for years. But one thing travel has also taught me? Packing smart isn’t just a skill; it’s an art form. Over the years, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) how to prepare in ways that make every trip easier, more enjoyable, and less stressful.

Packing light is often touted as an art and a science, especially when you want to maintain preparedness for whatever adventures await. Whether you're setting off for a weekend getaway or embarking on a month-long journey across Europe, learning to pack efficiently empowers you to travel with ease. This guide offers practical, value-driven advice to inspire lifestyle improvement and financial wisdom through smart packing strategies.

The allure of traveling the world is undeniable, but for many, the expense is a significant hurdle. Enter travel credit cards—a tool increasingly marketed as a savvy way to offset the costs associated with globetrotting.

Ah, spring. It’s that glorious time of year when nature wakes up from its long winter nap. Flowers bloom, the air feels crisp yet warm, and suddenly, my wanderlust kicks into high gear. After years of chasing travel trends, I’ve learned that spring is the perfect season to explore. The crowds are thinner, the weather is dreamy, and everywhere you go, there’s a sense of new beginnings. That said, packing for spring travel requires thoughtfulness. It’s not the sweltering heat of summer or the cozy chill of autumn. Spring is its own unique adventure, and so are its travel essentials.

Hi there! Sarah Houghton here, your resident globetrotter and hotel deal hunter. Over a decade and a half of exploring the world has taught me one undeniable truth about travel—there’s always a way to get more for less. Whether you travel for pleasure or work or just need a break from your day-to-day routine, finding the best hotel deals can feel like a game. But lucky for you, I’m here to help you win it.

Hi, fellow wanderers! It’s Sarah here, your trusty travel-loving storyteller. After 15 years of collecting passport stamps and chasing dream destinations, one question always follows me around like an eager travel buddy. People want to know, “Sarah, how do you save money on flights?” Well, saving on a plane ticket isn’t exactly a walk in the park, but it’s doable once you know where to look. Today, I’m sharing some golden tips and personal stories to help you save big on your next adventure.

Traveling has always been my greatest teacher. Over 15 years of exploring the world, my passport has become a patchwork of stamps, each one holding a unique story. But you know what? No matter how far I venture, the United States always amazes me with its diversity. From jaw-dropping natural wonders to vibrant cities, every corner of this country holds a gem waiting to be discovered.