We all know traveling is more than just getting from point A to point B – it’s about embracing the journey, savoring the experiences, and taking in the little details that make each trip unique. Over the years, I’ve honed my travel style, learning from countless adventures, unexpected mishaps, and memorable moments along the way.

Whether it’s tracking down the perfect hotel, putting together a detailed packing list, or mapping out our route – I love the planning process almost as much as actually being on the trip. My approach is a blend of smart planning, a touch of spontaneity, and always keeping things as fun and stress-free as possible.

On Life of Whimsley I share how we travel, with tips, tricks, and stories from our adventures. Get to know me as I unpack my travel style with a few rounds of This or That!

Get To know my travel style

Let’s go a little deeper:
  • I prefer flying because it’s typically faster. Although since moving out west, I have a new appreciation for taking a road trip.
  • I’ll always choose exploring a destination abroad. Experiencing a whole other country and culture is such a privilege.
  • When we’re at home, I make most of our meals. So when we travel, dining out gives me a break from groceries and meal prep.
  • Traveling during shoulder season is the best! Milder weather, less crowds and better prices. April is my favorite month to travel in.
  • I love figuring out the public transportation system in a new location. It makes me feel less like a tourist and more like a local.
  • Considering “planful travel” is part of my motto, this one shouldn’t be a surprise!
  • Popular spots are generally popular for a reason. Plus, it’s an easy way to connect with others who have had similar experiences.

01. Flying over Utah / 02. Grabbing happy hour on Pink Street in Lisbon, Portugal / 03. Getting to see the Acropolis in Athens, Greece

Let’s go a little deeper:
  • Generally, we aren’t staying at a place for more than a few days and I like the flexibility that hotels offer. For longer stays, I think a vacation rental is the way to go.
  • Staying in the city is part of the fun! It makes it easier to get around and provides more options for things to do and places to eat.
  • I’m not a frugal traveler, but I don’t like blowing the bank either. Value finds are the best way to go and help to balance the budget – a.k.a quality travel at an affordable price.
  • The charm of a boutique hotel is always so captivating to me. I like the personal touches and thoughtful design put in to making our stay a memorable experience.
  • I like exploring local dining options over being limited or obligated to the same spots at an all-inclusive resort.
  • Sharing a space is not for me. We like to have our own place to come back to at the end of a long day exploring.
  • I am lucky enough to have mountain views at home everyday, so waking up to the ocean is one of my favorite things and we’ll splurge to have the view.

01. Staying at The Palmetto Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina / 02. View from the Airbnb we stayed at in Barcelona / 03. Catching the sunset from The Royal Kona Hotel in Hawaii

Let’s go a little deeper:
  • Biking is one of my least favorite things to do – I’m too anxious I’ll get hit by a car. I’ll stick to sidewalks and walking!
  • We are not museum people. I said it. We like history exhibits but looking at art isn’t really our thing. We’ll opt to explore outside instead.
  • I like having a home base that is centrally located so we can take day trips without having to pack up and change hotels often.
  • I’ve never been someone who needed a lot of sleep and I’m naturally wired to wake up early. We like to get the day started bright and early!
  • Don’t get me wrong, I need downtime, but I like getting out and exploring as much as we can while we are in our destination.
  • It is so fun finding trinkets and keepsakes when we are traveling, but I leave most shopping to browsing online at home. Guided tours are a great way to learn about a place!
  • As much as I love a tropical vacation, I actually do not like sand. It’s messy and impossible to get out of your suitcase.

01. Getting an early start in Tokyo to head to the Fish Market for fresh Sushi / 02. Hiking the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto / 03. Enjoying a Piña Colada poolside in Hawaii

Let’s go a little deeper:
  • Another one of the best parts of traveling is experiencing all the local food, especially things that you’d never make for yourself or be able to get at home.
  • This one is tough – because I love a great street food stand but some of our fine dining experiences while traveling have been some of my favorite memories.
  • If we are going to pay for a meal, we prefer the break to sit down and enjoy it. Snacky foods are great for on the go, especially ice cream!
  • Finding a coffee shop and indulging in their specialties are so much fun. We make it a point to find local cafes to enjoy our morning cup of joe!
  • There’s just something special about sitting down for dinner at the end of the day to reminisce about our adventure.
  • I love food that has a kick. Not too much that it will torch my palette, but enough to bring a depth of flavor to the dish.
  • This one was too close that I couldn’t decide. I love sweet and salty things and the balanced combination it creates.

01. Snacking on Takoyaki and a Japanese beer in Kyoto / 02. Having an amazing dinner at La Maison in Santorini, Greece / 03. Sipping on a latte in front of the Colosseum in Rome

Hi, there!

I’m Brianna

The blogger behind Life of Whimsley, a site that’s centered around travel, with little bits of life mixed in. Whether you’re planning a trip around the world or a staycation, I am here to help you plan your travel with ease so you can explore with joy.

You’ll find travel tips, destination guides, ideas on creating joyful moments whether you are near home or far away, and a glimpse at what brings me joy when we aren’t traveling.

Thanks for joining me on this adventure!

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