Book The Damn Trip — My Thoughts on Travel Right Now

Are you constantly postponing your travel dreams, waiting for the "perfect moment" when your finances align, the world feels stable, or when Mercury isn't in retrograde? Here's the truth: that perfect moment doesn't exist. Every election cycle, global event, or economic fluctuation gives us new reasons to delay our adventures—but life continues moving forward regardless.

Remember how quickly those lockdown "few weeks" in 2020 turned into two years of staring out windows while passports gathered dust? The harsh reality is that you'll blink and suddenly be years older, with the same dreams but potentially less freedom to pursue them. Your dream destinations will still exist, but will you have the same energy, health, or opportunity to experience them fully?

Stop letting uncertainty paralyze you. That Moroccan camel ride through the Sahara, that authentic cooking class in an Indian home, that breathtaking sunset from a Cuban mountaintop—these experiences are waiting for someone brave enough to say "yes" now. Your future travel-obsessed self will thank you for not waiting until "someday."

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Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards

Summer Travel Gear That's Actually Worth Your Suitcase Space

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.

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Travel Inspiration, Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards Travel Inspiration, Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards

6 Favorite Morocco Stays

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.

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Group Trips: They’re Not Just for the Ladies

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.

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Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards

Spring Break Survival Kit: Things That Actually Get Used

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.

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Places to Go & Plates to Break: The Bucket List That Grows

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.

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Lauren Richards Lauren Richards

Nostos Serifos: Where Sustainability Meets Serenity

Discover Nōstos Serifos, a boutique eco-hotel in Greece that blends luxury with sustainability. Nestled in the Cyclades, this serene retreat offers stunning views, eco-conscious design, and a unique cultural experience. Explore the future of responsible travel at Nōstos Serifos.

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Kenya Stole My Heart: A Journey Beyond the Typical Safari

Ever wondered what Kenya feels like beyond the typical safari circuit? Join me as I share how a FAM trip turned into a soul-stirring journey of unexpected connections - from cycling through dramatic landscapes and dancing with Maasai warriors to supporting women-led enterprises and finding family among strangers. This is Kenya as you've never seen it, where authentic experiences and responsible tourism create magic that Instagram can't capture.

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Cuba, Cultural Experiences Lauren Richards Cuba, Cultural Experiences Lauren Richards

7 Must-Do Cultural Experiences in Cuba

Immerse yourself in Cuba’s rich cultural landscape with our guide to the seven must-do experiences that will take you beyond the usual tourist trail. From cruising Havana’s streets in a classic car to learning the art of Cuban cigars, we dive into authentic local encounters that will transform your trip into an unforgettable journey. Whether it's salsa dancing in hidden spots or savoring mojitos in Havana’s secret bars, these cultural adventures reveal the true soul of Cuba. Ready to experience Cuba like never before?

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A Photographer's 10 Tips For Capturing Portrait Shots Like The Very Best

Calling all adventurous souls and cultural explorers! Ever wondered how to capture those breathtaking travel moments without feeling awkward or missing out on the experience? Get ready to transform your travel photos from ordinary to extraordinary! In this blog, I'm spilling my top secrets for nailing those Instagram-worthy shots, even if you're camera-shy. From blending into stunning landscapes to catching the vibrant colors of Holi, learn how to tell your unique travel story through photos. Discover how to look natural, use props creatively, and capture those candid moments that truly reflect your journey. Whether you're a solo traveler or part of our amazing group trips, these tips will help you create memories (and photos!) that'll last a lifetime. Ready to dive in and make your next adventure as colorful as you are? Let's turn those travel dreams into frame-worthy realities!

#AuthenticTravel #PhotoTips #AdventureCalling

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Feta Late Than Never: My Athens Cooking Odyssey with EatWith

Join solo travel expert Laura Ericson on a mouthwatering adventure in the heart of Athens! Discover how a hidden terrace cooking class became the highlight of her Greek journey. From crafting authentic dishes to forming new friendships, Laura shares how EatWith experiences can transform your travels. Get ready to savor the flavors, stories, and connections that make solo exploration truly unforgettable. Your ticket to a genuine taste of Greek culture awaits!

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Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards Travel Tips And Advice Lauren Richards

8 Current Obsessions That Are Changing The Game For Me

Hey there, fellow wanderlusters! 👋 Laura here, coming at you with a roundup of my current obsessions that are making my nomadic heart sing. Whether you're plotting your next adventure or just dreaming of far-off places (I see you, Patagonia!), I've got some goodies that'll get you inspired and prepped for wherever your wanderlust takes you. You know how it goes - you find something cool on your travels and suddenly you can't shut up about it.

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