Experience Culture Travel

Past Newsletters

If you’ve missed previous newsletter emails that I’ve sent out, you can find them below! I don’t archive the What to Be Planning ones because they are typically only relevant in the month they are sent. Let me know if any of these make you eager to travel!

April 17, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Argentina

April 17, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Argentina

Argentina, a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking natural landscapes, and rich history, invites travelers to experience its diverse tapestry of experiences. It is here that the passionate dance known as the tango was born, loaded with expression and emotion, and a beautiful dance to watch - or perform. Embrace the cosmopolitan charm of Buenos Aires, where the echoes of European architecture blend seamlessly with Latin American flair, offering a glimpse into Argentina's colonial past and modern urban vibrancy. Beyond the bustling cities, immerse yourself in the gaucho culture of the vast pampas, where traditional folk music and horsemanship reflect Argentina's rural heritage.

Destination SpotlightKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024tango, argentina, buenos aires, patagonia, tierra del fuego, iguazu falls, brazil, chile, boliviaComment

April 10, 2024 - What to Be Planning: Northern Africa

April 10, 2024 - What to Be Planning: Northern Africa

Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt and the like are typically year round destinations, but going in September through November or February through April are the best times to visit as the weather tends to be dry and warm then.

What to be PlanningKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024morocco, tunisia, egypt, algeria, northern africa, star wars, africaComment

April 3, 2024 - What am I Working On? Ireland

April 3, 2024 - What am I Working On? Ireland

My client and her sister wanted to take their parents to Ireland, as their mother is 3/4 Irish and has always wanted to go see her ancestral lands. On a previous vacation they experienced Germany which was Dad's heritage, but now it's Mom's time!

What am I Working On?Kara BrownSeptember 27, 2024ireland, emerald isle, galway, dublin, killarney, limerick, cork, waterfordComment

March 27, 2024 - My Own Backyard

March 27, 2024 - My Own Backyard

2024 has hit us a little harder than most years do - with ER visits, family medical scares, and now our beloved cat, Ptolemy, has crossed the rainbow bridge. It was quite unexpected - he hadn't shown signs of feeling unwell until just last week, but his illness was so great that we were faced with the difficult decision to help him pass to end his suffering.

My Own BackyardKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024kitty, cat, ptolemy, board gamesComment

March 20, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Iceland

March 20, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Iceland

NASA scientists have predicted that 2024 will be "super season" for Aurora Borealis, also known as the northern lights - so where better to catch the painted skies than in Iceland! The best time to visit to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder is between September and April - and if you head to Iceland in December or January you may find yourself luckier to see them as there are only 4-5 hours of daylight during this time.

Destination SpotlightKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024iceland, northern lights, aurora borealis, rv, golden circleComment

March 6, 2024 - What am I Working On? Poland, Czechia, & Austria

March 6, 2024 - What am I Working On? Poland, Czechia, & Austria

These clients are celebrating their two kids graduating high school with a big trip to Europe. Their son is very into World War II history, while their daughter loves good architecture and historic places. I think they definitely picked three cities that will fit that bill!

What am I Working On?Kara BrownSeptember 27, 2024krakow, poland, prague, czechia, czech republic, austria, vienna, salzburgComment

February 28, 2024 - My Own Backyard

February 28, 2024 - My Own Backyard

Last month EV broke her arm so we "enjoyed" the emergency room and orthopedic appointments. This month brought me back to the hospital as my dad has had some health issues of late, one of which required him to go in for diagnostics (Malcolm and I kept him company for most of one of the days he was there). Hopefully none of my clients felt any type of interruption in the services I provide, but in case you were wondering, life has been a bit hectic for me as of late!

My Own BackyardKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024my own backyard, hospitalComment

February 21, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Antarctica

February 21, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Antarctica

Getting the 7 continent badge of honor often seems a lofty goal to people - like Antarctica is unattainable or only for "true adventurers" or those with very high disposable incomes. While of course those two categories of people do travel to Antarctica, it is possible for some of us "common folks" to go there too!

Destination SpotlightKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024antarctica, expedition cruise, expedition, argentina, drake passage, penguins, penguin, 7th continent, seventh continentComment

February 14, 2024 - What to Be Planning: Shoulder Season Travels

February 14, 2024 - What to Be Planning: Shoulder Season Travels

Shoulder season - the term for the time between peak season and completely off-peak season travel - is a great time to travel to destinations on your bucket list. Being adjacent to peak season means that the weather is usually pretty good still, but the destinations won't be as crowded, and availability will be greater (pricing typically is favorable too)!

What to be PlanningKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024shoulder season, europe, new zealand, south america, kenya, tanzaniaComment

February 7, 2024 - What am I Working On? Canyons of America

February 7, 2024 - What am I Working On? Canyons of America

My clients have previously taken escorted tours of the UK and Iceland, but this time wanted to join a tour group that was closer to home. They had been wanting to see the natural beauty found in the canyonlands of the Southwest, and this itinerary ended up as the winner!

What am I Working On?Kara BrownSeptember 27, 2024utah, arizona, wyoming, bryce canyon, zion, zion national park, arches national park, arches, dead horse point, grand canyon, las vegas, vegasComment

January 31, 2024 - My Own Backyard

January 31, 2024 - My Own Backyard

Last month was the month of clearing out water damage from our basement, and this month started off with a bang - literally! My 8 year old, EV, tripped and fell and broke her wrist on the 1st. She's in a cast now for about 4 weeks, but unfortunately has to wait another 4 weeks to enjoy her gymnastics class again safely.

My Own BackyardKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024cold weather, broken armComment

January 24, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Spain

January 24, 2024 - Destination Spotlight: Spain

With a long history that is different than most of its European relatives, Spain is a terrific place to travel to. Situated on the Iberian peninsula in Western Europe, Spain has influence from not only its European neighbors, but also exhibits unique Moorish architecture and some Islamic ties from their neighbors to the south.

Destination SpotlightKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024spain, alhambra, cadiz, madrid, portugal, morocco, france, basque, seville, barcelona, prado, la camina, pilgrimage, la sagrada familiaComment

January 17, 2024 - What to Be Planning: Summer Trips

January 17, 2024 - What to Be Planning: Summer Trips

It's always a good idea to plan travel as far in advance as you can, so in January, I recommend thinking about your summer travels. And as always, I'm here to help you plan out your trip!

What to be PlanningKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024new zealand, tanzania, ecuador, thailand, galapagos, kenya, alaska, universal studio, universal studios, family travel, family trip, family tripsComment

January 10, 2024 - What am I Working On? St. Lucia

January 10, 2024 - What am I Working On? St. Lucia

When you think of spring break destinations, I'm guessing you think of something warm and tropical. Often I get requests for Mexico, Jamaica, or the Dominican Republic as the flights tend to be easy from Minnesota and the rest of the frozen tundra. This year I've gotten several spring break requests to more unique destinations like St. Lucia!

What am I Working On?Kara BrownSeptember 27, 2024st lucia, spring break, spring break trip, island time, caribbeanComment

January 3, 2024 - Year in Review

January 3, 2024 - Year in Review

As I take a moment to reflect, I want to thank you for your support and especially thank all of you who have used me to book and plan your travels this year!

My Own BackyardKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024accomplishments, new year, travelers, trips, thankfulComment

December 27, 2023 - My Own Backyard

December 27, 2023 - My Own Backyard

This year I took off from new trip inquiries for a couple weeks to ensure I had plenty of time to do holiday activities with my family. The kids and I enjoyed making 6 different types of cookies/treats to give out as gifts to some friends, family, and neighbors - and all were gluten free and dairy free (aside from butter, which my kids tolerate).

My Own BackyardKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024christmas, holiday, holidays, kwanzaa, hanukkah, cookiesComment

December 20, 2023 - Destination Spotlight: Thailand

December 20, 2023 - Destination Spotlight: Thailand

Thailand is a mesmerizing destination that seamlessly blends rich cultural heritage with stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal getaway for diverse travel experiences. Nestled in Southeast Asia, Thailand boasts vibrant cities, ancient temples, and pristine beaches that cater to a wide range of interests. Bangkok, the bustling capital, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences with its vibrant street life, opulent temples like Wat Arun and Wat Pho, and a lot of delicious restaurants and eateries with authentic Thai flavors.

Destination SpotlightKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024thailand, phuket, bangkok, chiang mai, khao, pad thaiComment

December 13, 2023 - What to Be Planning: Family Trips

December 13, 2023 - What to Be Planning: Family Trips

This month for the holidays, consider planning a trip for your whole family. I can't think of a better gift to give your loved ones. Of course I'm always here if you'd like me to work on the trip!

What to be PlanningKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024family trip, family trips, trip for christmas, south america, mexico, caribbean, europe, london, paris, amsterdamComment

December 6, 2023 - What am I Working On? London & Paris

December 6, 2023 - What am I Working On? London & Paris

This family was referred to me by another lovely client (thank you for referrals!) and they wanted to spend their kids' Spring Break in London & Paris. As they wanted to ensure they made the most of their time there, they opted for private tours for many of their activities.

What am I Working On?Kara BrownSeptember 27, 2024london, paris, england, france, united kingdom, big ben, eiffel tower, versailles, catacombs, harry potter studios, harry potter, english premier league, soccer, football, changing of the guardComment

November 22, 2023 - My Own Backyard

November 22, 2023 - My Own Backyard

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving in the States, and a perfect time to stop and reflect on what I'm thankful for both personally as well as professionally.

My Own BackyardKara BrownSeptember 27, 2024thanksgiving, turkey, thankful, holidayComment