My travel story starts in Greece in 2000, which sounds very romantic and life-changing—and to be fair, it kind of was.

Unfortunately (or fortunately), it also gave me a lifelong case of wanderlust and the strong belief that I should probably be planning a trip at all times.

Fast forward a few years, add kids, real life, and a home base in North Carolina, and travel started to look… different.

Less “perfect itinerary,” more “does this plan account for snacks, naps, and the possibility that someone will refuse to walk?”

But here’s what I learned: those trips? Still pretty great.

Not perfect. Not seamless. But fun, memorable, and absolutely worth it.

So now I plan travel the same way I experience it—honestly.

Good plans over perfect ones. Real expectations over highlight reels. Trips that you’ll actually take… and actually enjoy.