We're typically low-key travelers who prefer affordable places to stay that are easy to get to and conveniently located near the activities we enjoy. However, the booking of our Hawaii trip was a bit last minute because we had to cancel our Puerto Rico plans. That meant that almost all the Big Island hotels in the Kailua-Kona area were near capacity and we had to book whatever was left. We decided ... Read more
Best Pool Floats for Summer
** This post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission on purchases made through these links. If I could change one thing about my home in Chicago, it'd be that it would have a swimming pool. If you have a pool, do you know just how lucky you are? No, really, do you? The lake isn't exactly conducive to floating on a large tube sometimes, and in fact floats aren't allowed. ... Read more
Stay at the Islander Resort | Islamorada, Florida Keys
When searching for an affordable, beachfront hotel option in the upper Florida Keys, I came across the Guy Harvey Outpost Islander Resort. The photos caught my eye, and the resort had decent reviews on Booking.com. I booked a three-night stay for us to explore the Keys during our recent trip. (If you'd like to try Booking.com, consider using my link.) When we drove up to the resort, an ... Read more
Staycation at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
Graham and I have been together for 3 years! We wanted to celebrate, but a trip was not possible — we are trying to cut back on spending in preparation for our wedding. So we did the next best thing: a staycation! We booked a stay at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. Neither of us had ever stayed there, and we were excited to spend a weekend at its pool. We were hoping it wouldn't be teeming ... Read more
Relaxing at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa
A recent day at Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa opened my eyes to the staycation possibilities.My cousin invited me over to her spa suite and to relax at the pool for her birthday. A highlight was the view of Praying Monk on Camelback Mountain. It made me want to spend my own relaxing weekend at a Valley resort. If only my birthday weren't amid the busy (and pricey) tourist ... Read more