If someone who literally gets set on fire for a living can book a trip to Morocco right after a divorce, what's actually stopping you? I sat down with two Hollywood stunt doubles to talk about fear, risk, and why the people who do the most "dangerous" things are often the calmest travelers. Here's what they taught me about overcoming travel fear.

If you've ever eaten ramen for the third night in a row while scrolling travel Instagram because you're "saving for a trip," this one's for you. Money coach Rachel Covert (who retired at 36 with $500k saved) just dropped a truth bomb: saving for travel doesn't have to suck. The problem? You've been conditioned to believe saving means extreme deprivation. No restaurants. No fun. No life. And then you crack and book a trip on a credit card. Here's what actually works: automation, clear priorities, and zero lentils required.

I'll never forget the moment I decided to quit my job and start my travel business. I was floating in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia, Turkey, when my entire body just... knew. Within a week, I'd submitted my resignation from a 14-year career. My brain was screaming at me the entire time. But my body? My body was calm. Quiet. Certain. That's the thing about intuition that nobody tells you: it doesn't scream. It whispers. And it lives in your gut, not your head.

Join Darcy Luoma on her humanitarian journey through Cuba with Laura Ericson Group Trips. Traveling under a special visa, Darcy's group brought essential donations for communities affected by the US embargo while experiencing authentic Cuban culture. From classic cars in Havana to horseback riding in Viñales, this travel diary showcases how meaningful travel can create positive impact while fostering genuine cultural connections.

While Cuba is famous for classic cars, cigars, and free healthcare, the reality of daily life tells a very different story. Based on my conversation with Andres, a Cuban tour guide who has spent his entire 38 years on the island, here are the eye-opening truths about Cuban life that most tourists never see - from highly educated doctors who earn less than waiters to locals who've never tasted the "Cuban" cocktails served to visitors.

After stumbling off a 4am flight from Morocco (fueled by exactly zero sleep and one too many espresso martinis), I found myself on a bus to Donegal for TBEX—one of my favorite travel creator conferences. What followed was a perfect mix of Irish hospitality, questionable life choices involving 72-kilometer bike rides after carb-heavy lunches, and meeting Buttons, my new alpaca best friend who had some serious bathroom priorities. Between traditional music sessions, the best clam chowder of my life, and a car breakdown that somehow turned into Irish Tetris with our luggage, Ireland reminded me why sometimes the most magical travel moments happen when absolutely nothing goes according to plan.

Just got back from Morocco with my latest group, and honestly, I'm still processing everything that went down. Here's the real, unfiltered story of nine days that reminded me why I love this crazy job—even when it nearly kills me. From Operation Wine Stockpile in Casablanca to monkey attacks in the cedar forest, heat exhaustion in the Sahara, and way too many leather bags in Fes, this trip had it all. Follow along for the authentic behind-the-scenes of what boutique group travel really looks like—complete with 80 billion cats, drum circles under the stars, and the kind of transformational moments that change you forever.

Patagonia isn't a country—it's a region spanning both Chile and Argentina. And choosing which side to visit sparks heated debates among travelers. Travel writer Steph Dyson, who lived in Chile for three years, breaks down the real differences: "The Argentines are so good at tooting their own horns... but the Chileans frustrate me because they just need to promote themselves a little bit better."

While most people think "Argentina" when they hear Patagonia, that's largely due to superior marketing rather than superior experiences. Chilean Patagonia offers more diverse landscapes, better value, and authentic experiences without the crowds—but requires more planning to discover its hidden gems.

Let's be honest - nobody gets excited about buying travel insurance. It's not Instagram-worthy, it's not fun to research, and most of us would rather spend that money on literally anything else. But after witnessing countless travel disasters and talking with travel insurance expert Erin Fish, I'm here to set the record straight on the myths that could ruin your trip. From why your credit card "coverage" probably isn't enough to the real cost of medical care abroad, these are the 7 travel insurance myths every traveler needs to stop believing.

So there I was in Antalya, Turkey, on what was supposed to be a romantic double date, except the guy was a total asshole and there was only one of him. My travel buddy Kari and I were stuck at dinner with this insufferable man who kept interrogating us like we were applying for citizenship instead of just trying to have a drink. That's when Kari started swirling her wine glass and accidentally created an international incident involving fake American traditions and armpit fart noises. Nobody talks about this stuff in travel guides, but these ridiculous disasters? They're the moments that stick with you long after you've forgotten what you ate for breakfast in that beautiful café overlooking the Mediterranean.

I've dragged suitcases through enough airports and survived enough questionable hotel bathrooms to know what actually works when you're living your best travel life. These aren't your typical "influencer must-haves" that look pretty but fall apart the second you use them—these are the products that have earned their spot in my luggage through real-world testing. From $14 sunglasses that can handle Sahara sandstorms to pajamas that society deems acceptable public wear, this is my no-BS guide to 30 summer essentials that actually make travel (and life) better.

Morocco is a traveler's dream where ancient medinas meet stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences await at every turn. From the vibrant corniche of Casablanca to the iconic blue streets of Chefchaouen, the historic medina of Fes, magical nights under Saharan stars, refreshing infinity pools overlooking palm oases, and luxurious riads in bustling Marrakech - each of our carefully selected accommodations offers a unique glimpse into Morocco's enchanting character while providing the perfect balance of authentic charm and modern comfort.

From spontaneous decisions in Medellín Ubers to flower-adorned designs in Mexico City, Laura Ericson shares the meaningful stories behind her four travel tattoos. Learn her practical tips for getting inked abroad safely and why marking your body with the places that have marked your soul creates lasting memories more powerful than any souvenir.

Ever feel guilty for wanting to explore the world on your own terms—even when you're happily married? You're not alone. We interviewed Jenna, a passionate traveler in a thriving marriage, who believes independent adventures aren't just acceptable—they're essential. "I always knew that whoever became my spouse had to support my love of travel and doing things on my own," she explains. Discover how solo travel helps you rediscover yourself, build confidence, and ironically, appreciate your partner even more. Because the healthiest relationships have room for individual growth.

Travel has a way of surprising us, challenging our assumptions, and opening up new possibilities. In this candid discussion, two travelers - Vince and Rich - share how group travel transformed their perspectives, from making mojitos in Cuba to exploring Colombian coffee culture. Their experiences reveal how the right balance of structure and freedom can create meaningful connections and authentic cultural immersion.

After 14+ countries and too many suitcases, I've got strong opinions about what's worth the precious luggage space. Not the Instagram-perfect crap that travel influencers push, but the real MVPs that have saved me from disasters across four continents. These are the things I've panic-bought in foreign pharmacies, stolen from friends, and finally invested in after one too many "well that was completely preventable" moments.

India did not disappoint! Who wants a resort trip when you can get out, experience and truly immerse yourself in the culture? From the breathtaking scale of Holi celebrations to custom-made saris, rickshaw adventures, and heartwarming school visits, our group experienced the true beauty of India beyond stereotypes. The vibrant colors, infectious energy, amazing food, and humbling perspectives left us with memories and friendships to last a lifetime.

Looking for bucket list inspiration? Meet Amanda, whose aspirations range from breaking plates in Greece to naming someone's child. Through her eclectic mix of dreams—both accomplished and pending—we discover how bucket lists become more than just checkboxes; they're repositories of family history, personal healing, and pure adventure, reminding us that the best life goals combine grand adventures with everyday joys.

There's nothing quite like your first Holi celebration. As ancient traditions burst to life in a dazzling spectacle of colors, you'll find yourself swept up in a joyous frenzy that transforms strangers into friends and paints the world in rainbow hues. But like any great adventure, proper preparation makes all the difference between a magical celebration and a potentially uncomfortable day. From protecting your skin to packing the right gear, here's your complete guide to celebrating Holi like a pro.

Coming home from an amazing trip can feel like landing on a different planet. This guide explores the delicate art of transitioning back to everyday life after transformative travel experiences, offering practical tips and emotional support for dealing with post-vacation blues, jet lag, and reintegrating into your routine while keeping your travel spirit alive.