There’s something magical about the Canadian Rockies, and our recent trip to Calgary, Banff, and beyond was nothing short of spectacular. From cityscapes to towering peaks, fine dining to alpine lakes, every moment felt like a postcard-worthy adventure.

A Taste of Calgary

We kicked off our journey in Calgary, a city that blends modern vibrancy with western charm. Walking the downtown streets, we soaked in the sights of the iconic Calgary Tower and the bustling energy of Stephen Avenue. The crisp air and clear blue skies set the perfect backdrop for exploring before our much-anticipated dinner at Major Tom.

Perched high above the city, Major Tom offers not just incredible views but an unforgettable dining experience. Their steaks and cocktails were top-notch, and the atmosphere was the perfect sendoff before heading toward the mountains.

The Road to Banff & Canmore

With full stomachs and eager spirits, we set off west toward Banff, choosing to stay in the nearby town of Canmore. Nestled among jagged peaks, Canmore offers a quieter, less touristy alternative to Banff while still being just minutes away from all the action.

Banff Adventures: Gondola Views & Iconic Landmarks

No trip to Banff is complete without taking the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain. As we ascended, the views became more and more breathtaking, revealing panoramic scenes of Banff and the Bow Valley below. At the top, we walked along the boardwalk to Sanson’s Peak, where the air was crisp and the vistas stretched endlessly.

Back in town, we made our way to the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Walking through the grand halls of this “Castle in the Rockies,” we couldn’t help but feel transported to another era. The combination of history, luxury, and mountain scenery makes it a must-see, even if you’re not staying overnight.

Lake Louise & Peyto Lake: Nature at Its Best

Continuing our adventure, we visited the turquoise gem of the Rockies—Lake Louise. Even with the crowds, its beauty never ceases to amaze. After a peaceful stroll along the lake, we pressed on to Peyto Lake, known for its striking wolf-head shape when viewed from above. The short hike to the viewpoint was well worth it, offering one of the most spectacular sights of the entire trip.

Sky-High Thrills & Lunch in Golden

One of the highlights of our journey was walking the Golden Skybridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge. Suspended high above the canyon, it delivered a thrilling experience with sweeping views of waterfalls and rugged landscapes.

After working up an appetite, we stopped for lunch in Golden, BC—a charming mountain town with a relaxed vibe. A hearty meal and warm hospitality were the perfect way to wrap up our adventure before heading back to Canmore for one last cozy evening in the Rockies.

Final Thoughts

From the city energy of Calgary to the jaw-dropping beauty of Banff and beyond, this trip was everything we hoped for and more. Whether it was the views, the food, or the sheer wonder of the mountains, every moment reminded us why the Canadian Rockies are a destination like no other.

Would we do it all over again? In a heartbeat.

Our recent trip to Washington, DC, and Philadelphia was a whirlwind of history, culture, and amazing food. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, we packed our itinerary with unforgettable experiences. Here’s a recap of our journey!

Day 1: Arrival in DC

We landed at Dulles Airport in the late afternoon and took an Uber to our Airbnb in the heart of Washington, DC. After picking up some essentials at Whole Foods, we kicked off the trip with a delicious dinner at Il Canale, a cozy Italian spot in Georgetown.

Day 2: Monument-Hopping and Art Appreciation

We started the day with a refreshing walk along the National Mall before visiting the towering Washington Monument. From there, we admired the White House and grabbed lunch at Fogo. The afternoon was spent exploring the National Gallery of Art, where we marveled at masterpieces, followed by a relaxing coffee break at Tryst in Dupont Circle.

Day 3: Museums and a Night of Irish Dance

The morning was dedicated to the Holocaust Museum, a powerful and moving experience. After lunch, we visited the Museum of Natural History and took a guided tour of the stunning Library of Congress. The evening ended on a high note with a spectacular Riverdance performance.

Day 4: A Day Trip to Philadelphia

An early start took us to Philadelphia via Amtrak. We wandered through Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest residential street in the U.S., paid our respects at Ben Franklin’s Grave, and explored Liberty Center. After a delicious lunch at Reading Terminal Market, we checked out the immersive exhibits at Wonderspace Philadelphia and, of course, posed with the iconic Rocky Statue before heading back to DC.

Day 5: More Smithsonian Museums and National Archives

The day began at the Museum of American History, where we saw everything from the Star-Spangled Banner to Dorothy’s ruby slippers. After a relaxing lunch at Pavilion Café, we explored the National Museum of African American History and Culture, followed by the National Air and Space Museum. Before wrapping up, we visited the National Archives to see the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Dinner at China Chilcano was the perfect way to end the day!

Day 6: Arlington, Georgetown, and the Zoo

We picked up our rental car and visited Arlington Cemetery, where we witnessed the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Then, we strolled through Georgetown, grabbed lunch at Clyde’s, and spent the afternoon at the National Zoo. The day ended with an entertaining performance of Spamalot at Toby’s Dinner Theatre.

Day 7: Farewell, DC!

After a final breakfast, we made our way to the airport, reflecting on an incredible week filled with history, culture, and great memories.

This trip reminded us of how rich and diverse America’s past and present are. We can’t wait for our next adventure! 🚀✨

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This past Christmas, we spent an unforgettable time in Utah, enjoying everything from winter adventures to incredible food and quality time with family. From the snowy hills of Soldier Hollow to the vibrant food scene in Salt Lake City, every moment was filled with fun, laughter, and a bit of holiday magic.

Snowy Thrills at Soldier Hollow

One of the highlights of our trip was tubing at Soldier Hollow, where we raced down the snowy slopes and embraced the thrill of winter. With stunning mountain views and perfectly groomed lanes, it was the ultimate way to enjoy the fresh Utah air and get into the holiday spirit.

Tennis and Staying Active

Despite the holiday indulgences, we stayed active by playing tennis at both the Cottonwood Tennis Club and the Park City Rec Center. The combination of indoor courts and crisp mountain air made for some great matches and even better memories.

A Foodie’s Holiday Dream

Utah’s food scene did not disappoint! We revisited some of our favorite spots and tried some new ones:

• Hires Big H – Classic burgers, fries, and that signature fry sauce—always a must when in Salt Lake.
• Red Iguana – The mole is legendary, and this visit was no exception.
• Aker Restaurant – A fantastic dinner experience with incredible flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
• Top Pot – Enjoying hot pot on a cold winter night was both delicious and comforting.
• Rubi’s Peruvian Restaurant – A hidden gem where we savored authentic Peruvian dishes.
• Asher Adams – The perfect spot for drinks and winding down after busy days of exploring.

Cheering on the Utah Utes

We caught a University of Utah women’s basketball game, soaking in the energy and excitement of the crowd. It was great to see the team in action and experience the passion of Utah sports fans.

Family Time in Sugarhouse & Holladay

The best part of the trip, of course, was spending time with family. Whether it was hanging out in Sugarhouse, Holladay, or other areas in Salt Lake, sharing meals, exchanging gifts, or simply enjoying each other’s company, it was a holiday to remember.

Looking Forward to the Next Trip

As we wrapped up our time in Utah, we left with full hearts (and full stomachs!). Between the winter fun, amazing food, and quality family time, it was the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.

Until next time, Utah!

A Magical Voyage: Our Disney Fantasy Cruise & A Day in Mérida

Our family recently set sail on the Disney Fantasy, embarking on a journey filled with magic, adventure, and unforgettable moments. One of the highlights of our trip was our stop in Progreso, Mexico, where we had the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Mérida—a place rich in history, culture, and warm hospitality.

Setting Sail on the Disney Fantasy

From the moment we stepped aboard the Disney Fantasy, we were immersed in the signature Disney experience—elegant décor, incredible entertainment, and top-notch service. Whether it was enjoying Broadway-style shows, indulging in world-class dining, or simply relaxing on deck while the ocean stretched endlessly before us, every moment felt like a dream come true.

Exploring Progreso & Mérida

Our port of call in Progreso gave us a chance to experience the Yucatán Peninsula beyond the usual beachside resorts. We opted for a day trip to Mérida, a city known for its stunning colonial architecture, Mayan heritage, and bustling markets.

As we arrived in Mérida’s historic center, we were captivated by the charm of the Plaza Grande—a lively square surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Catedral de San Ildefonso, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas. Walking through the colorful streets, we admired the blend of Spanish and Mayan influences in the architecture and the local culture.

Of course, no visit to Mérida would be complete without sampling some authentic Yucatecan cuisine. We treated ourselves to cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and panuchos (crispy tortillas stuffed with refried beans), accompanied by a refreshing glass of agua de chaya—a local favorite made from chaya leaves.

A Magical End to a Perfect Trip

After an enriching day in Mérida, we returned to the Fantasy, where the magic continued with pirate night festivities, character meet-and-greets, and a final evening under the stars. There’s something truly special about experiencing the best of both worlds—Disney’s signature enchantment and the authentic beauty of a place like Mérida.

As we disembarked at the end of our journey, we carried with us not just souvenirs, but cherished memories of family time, new experiences, and the joy of discovering new places together.

A Magical Weekend: Disneyland, California Adventure & Coldplay at the Rose Bowl

This past weekend, our family embarked on an unforgettable adventure filled with Disney magic and incredible live music. We kicked off the trip with two days at Disneyland and California Adventure, immersing ourselves in the rides, food, and nostalgia, before capping it off with a breathtaking Coldplay concert at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.

Disneyland & California Adventure: A Family Tradition

No matter how many times we visit, stepping into Disneyland always feels special. There’s something about the sight of Main Street, U.S.A., the scent of churros in the air, and the first glimpse of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle that brings out the kid in all of us.

We wasted no time diving into our favorite rides—Hyperspace Mountain was a family favorite, as always, and we braved the Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay, which was decked out in its full Nightmare Before Christmas glory. Valentina and Daniel led the way through Galaxy’s Edge, where we piloted the Millennium Falcon on Smugglers Run and had a close encounter with Kylo Ren and the First Order.

At California Adventure, the highlight was Avengers Campus, where we watched Spider-Man perform insane aerial stunts and helped Rocket rescue the Guardians on Mission: Breakout! The new San Fransokyo Square was a fun addition, and we made sure to grab a bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Pacific Wharf.

Of course, no Disney trip is complete without the classics—Radiator Springs Racers, and Soarin’ Over California.

Coldplay at the Rose Bowl: The Perfect Finale

After two days of Disney fun, we made our way to Pasadena for what would be an unforgettable night—Coldplay at the Rose Bowl. There’s something magical about seeing a legendary band perform in such an iconic stadium, especially when you’re surrounded by thousands of fans singing along to every song.

From the moment Coldplay took the stage, the energy was electric. The LED wristbands lit up the stadium in waves of colors, synchronized to the music, creating an immersive experience unlike any other. They played all the classics—Viva La Vida, Yellow, Fix You, Clocks—and every song felt like an anthem. One of the standout moments was A Sky Full of Stars, where the entire stadium turned into a sea of twinkling lights.

Chris Martin’s energy was infectious, and his heartfelt connection with the audience made the night feel intimate, even in a stadium of over 80,000 people. It was the perfect way to end an already magical weekend, leaving us with memories we’ll cherish forever.

A Weekend to Remember

Disneyland, California Adventure, and Coldplay—each part of the weekend was incredible in its own way, but together, it was truly unforgettable. Whether it was screaming on roller coasters, watching fireworks over Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, or singing our hearts out at the Rose Bowl, this trip was one for the books.

Here’s to more adventures, more magic, and more live music in the future! 🎢🎆🎸

Exploring the Wonders of Peru: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Natural Beauty

June 24 – Lima: A Glimpse into Peru’s Rich Past and Vibrant Present Our adventure began in Lima, where we enjoyed breakfast at Los Pineiros before embarking on a city tour that showcased the city’s most iconic landmarks. From the ancient Huaca Pucllana ruins to the grandeur of the Plaza Mayor, the Government Palace, and the majestic Cathedral, Lima’s blend of history and modernity was on full display. The highlight of the day was the visit to the renowned Museo Larco, home to an impressive collection of pre-Columbian gold and silver artifacts.

June 25 – Family Time in Lima After a leisurely breakfast at our Airbnb, we spent the day reconnecting with family. It was a heartwarming experience, filled with laughter, storytelling, and delicious homemade Peruvian cuisine.

June 26 – Journey to Cuzco: The Heart of the Incan Empire An early flight took us to Cuzco, where we checked into the Casa Andina Standard Plaza. The afternoon city tour led us through the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, and the Convent of Santo Domingo, built atop the sacred Incan site of Koricancha. Venturing beyond the city, we explored the fascinating archaeological sites of Kenko, Puca Pucará, Tambomachay, and the awe-inspiring fortress of Sacsayhuamán.

June 27 – The Sacred Valley: Tracing the Footsteps of the Incas Our day began with a visit to the Pisac Ruins, perched atop a mountain with breathtaking views. We then explored the colorful artisan market in the town of Pisac before heading through the picturesque Sacred Valley to Urubamba for a delightful lunch. The afternoon took us to the fortress of Ollantaytambo, where we marveled at the precision of Incan engineering.

June 28 – Machu Picchu: A Dream Realized Taking the PeruRail Vistadome train, we journeyed to the legendary Machu Picchu. The guided tour introduced us to the architectural wonders of the site, including the Royal Palace, the Temple of the Three Windows, and the Sacred Plaza. The experience was truly surreal, a testament to the ingenuity of the Incan civilization. The return train ride featured a unique fashion show showcasing exquisite baby alpaca garments.

June 29 – From Cuzco to Trujillo: Coastal Culture and Colonial Charm After a scenic flight, we arrived in Trujillo and settled into our Airbnb. The evening was spent enjoying a delicious dinner from El Romano and preparing for the next leg of our journey.

June 30 – Unveiling Trujillo’s Ancient Treasures Our exploration of Trujillo began with a visit to the Huacas de Moche archaeological complex, where we admired the intricate reliefs of the Moche civilization. At Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the world, we wandered through the impressive Palacio de Nickan. Lunch in Huanchaco was followed by a captivating performance of Marinera Norteña and Paso Horse Show. The day concluded with a memorable dinner at El Cellar de Cler.

July 1 – Immersing in Trujillo’s Colonial Elegance After breakfast, we embarked on a city tour before enjoying lunch at the prestigious Club Central. The afternoon offered free time to soak in the charm of Trujillo, followed by an evening of entertainment at a local theater.

July 2 – A Relaxing Day Before Heading to Cajamarca Sunday was spent unwinding, attending church, and savoring lunch at Ziba. In the evening, we boarded an overnight bus to Cajamarca, ready for the next adventure.

July 3 – Cajamarca: A Journey Through Time Arriving early, we settled into our Airbnb before setting out on a city tour. The historic Plaza de Armas, Atahualpa’s Ransom Room, and the Belén complex provided fascinating insights into the region’s past. The day ended with a breathtaking view from the Santa Apolonia hill.

July 4 – Cumbemayo, Otuzco, and Baños del Inca Our day trip began at the Cumbemayo rock formations, an ancient Pre-Incan aqueduct site. We then explored the Otuzco necropolis before indulging in a relaxing soak at the Baños del Inca hot springs, a rejuvenating end to an adventure-filled day.

July 5 – Back to Lima: A Final Taste of Peruvian Culture Returning to Lima, we lunched at La Cuadra de Salvador before strolling through the artsy Barranco district. In the evening, we marveled at the Magic Water Circuit, a dazzling display of lights and fountains.

July 6 – An Adrenaline-Fueled Finale Our last day in Peru was nothing short of exhilarating. We soared over the Lima coastline with a paragliding experience before visiting the Basílica y Convento de San Francisco, famous for its eerie catacombs. A delicious farewell lunch at Chifa Wa Lok concluded our unforgettable journey.

Reflections on an Unforgettable Adventure From Lima’s colonial grandeur to the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu, from the vibrant markets of the Sacred Valley to the ancient wonders of Trujillo and Cajamarca, this journey was a profound exploration of Peru’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Peru left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we cannot wait to return one day to uncover even more of its hidden gems.