The Minted Traveler

02/05/2023

Be where the water meets the sea.
The infinity pool at the Westin Princeville is stunning during the day and evening.
One of 3 pools at the resort, this pool is still my favorite for this view. We also got to spot whales from the pool - now how cool is that!?
Check it out here: https://prf.hn/l/GlneOGZ
The Westin Princeville, Ocean Resort Villas Westin Vacation Club Marriott Vacation Club

26/04/2023

Seeing this famous tower is worth a day trip from Florence. And yes, the photos don't do the lean justice.
Want to see the leaning tower, but not sure what else to do? Plan a trip from Florence. Easily a 50-minute train ride, Pisa is a half day journey to this major tourist destination.
Pro tip: book your round-trip train tickets ahead of time to save. We used ItaliaRail and they validated our tickets for us and emailed a QR code. Easy peasy!
ItaliaRail

23/04/2023

Happy Earth Day 🌎
On Earth Day and every day, make sure to leave no trace when visiting places.
Most hiking trails will ask you to pack out your trash, keep to the trail, and take nothing but photos. All wonderful reminders wherever we roam.

20/04/2023

Make sure to grab a picture of the Swiss guards at the Vatican 🇻🇦 if you spot them!
Each guard must meet traditional requirements and take an oath to protect the Pope. It's so cool to see this history from the 1500s and their Renaissance inspired uniforms.

18/04/2023

The St. Regis Venice was absolutely dream-worthy!
From the moment the wood boat arrived, stepping into this luxurious hotel was nothing short of magical. The furnishings and decor were stunning, and the service was top-notch. The St. Regis Bar and Gio's were spectacular from the views to the drinks and food. Additionally, we were able to participate in the sabrage event!
Our room was pleasantly upgraded to a partial Grand Canal view room with a Juliette balcony and a bottle and pastry with a custom welcome note to boot!
We utilized our Marriott Bonvoy card for 3 free night awards to stay here for free. I can show you how, too.
Book your stay: https://prf.hn/l/Y3jgZGy
Marriott Bonvoy The St. Regis Venice Marriott International Marriott Hotels St. Regis Hotels & Resorts

12/03/2023

What's better than traveling!?

Having not only an entire row, but the exit row to yourself!

Sometimes, you get lucky and are one of 37 people on a flight where Southwest tells everyone to spread out for weight and balance. Talk about winning!

10/01/2023

Want to catch that perfect sunrise, but don't want to sacrifice sleep on your vacation?
Try your first morning! Due to jetlag, you will most likely head to bed early on your first night and wake up earlier before your body adjusts. Take advantage of this and capture a beautiful sunrise at your next destination.

05/01/2023

Horseshoe Bend and its mountainous depth!
Located in Page, AZ, Horseshoe Bend is a quick walk down to the Bend from a parking lot ($5 parking pass required). There are 2 viewing platforms, rest stops along the way with shade to hide from the heat, and breathtaking views when you arrive!
Top tip: the middle of the Bend is more towards the right of the main viewing platform. Be careful, as there is no railing on the edge (it's a long way down!)

12/11/2022

Talk about a grand entrance! 😍
The lobby at the Westin Kierland is nothing short of stunning. With two bars - one being a scotch lounge - up top, and decadent restaurants below, there's plenty to fulfill your appetite while taking in the gorgeous golf course views.

04/09/2022

Hiking the infamous Devil's Bridge in Sedona is a relatively flat hike, until the end when you are climbing up rocks. But the views are worth it!
Take a look at some of the sights you can see on the trail/4x4 path, the "easy rocks" per previous reviews I encountered, and the view of the bridge from the top.
The hike starts from a parking lot (with bathrooms) and is also a shuttle drop off point. You will walk along the 4x4 road for 1.2 miles until you veer to the right to start the Devil's Bridge hike. From here it's 1 mile to the top. The first ½ mile is relatively flat or similar to the road. The last ½ is steep, stairs or rocks to climb up until you reach the bridge.
We hiked at 5 pm and enjoyed the cooler weather, minimal people (only saw 6 on the trail), and no wait at the Bridge for photos. Round trip time was 2 hours, taking our time and stops for photos 📸
Have you hiked this trail?

27/06/2022

One of the many hobbit holes in Hobbiton.
If you haven't visited Hobbiton, you should add it to your trip to New Zealand. The tour walks you through the hobbit town filled with history, movie references, and hidden secrets. Top off your trip with a cold, refreshing beverage at the Green Dragon Tavern.
For those wanting a little more, schedule the breakfast or dinner feast tours complete with a meal for a hobbit!

11/06/2022

Magens Bay is an amazing beach, perfect for an afternoon outing.
If you have a cruise stop here, make sure to check out this beautiful beach and make sure to stop at the top for pictures first.

05/06/2022

Travel back in time... to 1753!
Independence Hall is filled with blocks (literally) of history. Chilling to walk on the same ground where history was made so many years ago.

04/06/2022

Eating beignets in New Orleans is like a rite of passage.
Just make sure you don't wear black, laugh, or breathe on them. IYKYK 😅

02/06/2022

Happy National World Reef Day!

31/05/2022

Sliding into the work week like...
Dreaming of cooler weather, like our incredible hike on Fox Glacier where we slide through glacier crevasses, hiked on a glacier, and drank glacial water.

25/05/2022

Dreaming of visiting the garden isle but not sure where to start? Check out the highlights for a week in Kauai.

How to spend an incredible week in Kauai. Check out the must-dos for a week-long trip.

24/05/2022

Grand Canyon of the Pacific - Waimea Canyon

21/04/2022

Napali Coast - Kauai

16/04/2022

15/04/2022

That one time in New Orleans...

New Orleans is a vibrant city filled with incredible food, culture, and humidity!

Have you been?

10/04/2022