Historic core of Istanbul walking tour inspired by Rick Steves

Sultanahmet, the center of old town Istanbul

If you only have a few days in Istanbul, or even one, and are wondering what to do, the historic core walk is your best bet. Sultanahmet, the center of old Istanbul, is home to many of the city’s must-see sites, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and the Hippodrome. The walk begins …

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Twisted Fork: Scallops and shredded duck confit in Vancouver

The beautiful Marinated Scallops

It was my first day in Vancouver. After a long day of traveling, I was hungry and willing to eat anything within walking distance. Near my hotel on Vancouver’s Granville Street, I discovered Twisted Fork, a French-inspired bistro offering dishes with a Canadian twist. Twisted Fork is a no-fuss, non-pretentious bistro that prides itself on …

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How to get from Nagano to Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Snow monkeys hanging out at the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park near Nagano

One of the main reasons you should visit Nagano is for the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, a unique onsen, or hot spring, filled with wild Japanese Macaques. Yes, you read that correctly. There is a hot spring with wild monkeys that you can visit in Japan. The park, located northeast of Nagano, requires a little …

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My 4 must eat places at Seattle’s Pike Place Market

When you travel to a new city and want to find great local food, you usually know to skip the tourist trap spots that love to jack up prices for mediocre food. This is mostly true except for the case of Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington. Yes, it is touristy, and you should avoid …

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5 new places I would love to visit in 2015

At the top of the list...Vietnam

I have been fortunate enough to have been able to travel to many awesome locations all around this amazing globe. But like any other person who loves to travel, I’m always ready to plan a new trip. Always looking ahead for my next adventure. I think I have a problem, but a good problem. I …

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My best travel tips for an awesome trip

New friends met in Tokyo

Whenever my friends plan a trip, they ask me the same questions. Do you have any travel tips? Where should I stay? What should I eat? How can I save money? I always help them with tips I have learned through years of traveling and experience. Here are a few of the best travel tips …

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