A First Timer’s Guide to Jazz Fest

By on May 8, 2013 in Go

I’ve just returned home after a food-and-music-fueled weekend away in New Orleans. This was not my first visit to the Big Easy, but this trip marked my first time at one of this city’s biggest draws: the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Jazz Fest, as it’s colloquially called, has been around for over 40 [...]

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The Best Food In DC… part 1!

By on April 4, 2013 in Pack

As a devout reader of the Washingtonian’s annual “100 Very Best Restaurants” edition, it’s safe to say that I’m a bit of a foodie-in-training. After 10+ years of living, working and playing in DC, I’ve eaten at my fair share of notable places. Rather than compile a list of my top restaurants, I wanted to [...]

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The Polar Bear Plunge

By on March 10, 2013 in Go, My Travels, Video

I’ve done some crazy things over the course of my life. I’ve jumped out of a tiny pink plane at 15,000 feet in New Zealand. I’ve climbed to the top of Mayan pyramids and (inadvertently) swam with a shark. But, sometimes life is all about knowing your limits… and recently, my threshold was put to [...]

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#FriFotos: Trees

By on March 1, 2013 in Dream, Snapshot

This week, I’m co-hosting the #FriFotos Twitter Event with @EpsteinTravels, @CharlesYap, @TravelDesigned and @lindsey_epperly. The theme? TREES! Here are my favorite tree photos… enjoy!                    

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Testing my Geography Knowledge…

By on February 4, 2013 in Dream

Most African Tourists Like Elephants.* No, this isn’t the latest travel trend. Rather it’s a mnemonic device for Africa’s northernmost countries: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt. I work at the National Geographic Channel, part of one of the smartest and most worldly organizations on the planet. I take a lot of pride from working [...]

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Things to Do in St. Michaels, Maryland

By on January 14, 2013 in Pack

St. Michaels, Maryland (the “Hamptons of the Chesapeake”) is where the elite goes to spend the weekend. Located right along the Old Line State’s craggy coastline, it’s an idyllic waterfront retreat where all roads lead to the water. With a deep history and a familiar, small-town feel, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. Here are the top things [...]

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Win an UncommonGoods Traveler Gift Pack!

By on December 4, 2012 in Contest

UncommonGoods is one of my favorite brands. I’ve spend many a holiday perusing their catalog in search of fun and unique gift ideas for friends, family and (ahem) myself. This year, I’m excited to partner with them to offer all of you a chance to win the Packed Suitcase 2012 Traveler Gift Pack, comprised of [...]

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2012 Packed Suitcase Traveler Gift Guide

By on December 3, 2012 in Dream, Pack

I’ve noticed a dramatic transformation all around my hometown of Washington, DC. Trees and buildings are decorated with twinkly lights, cheery music is playing out of every speaker and everyone is walking around with a little more bounce in their step. It can only mean one thing… yes, the holidays are upon us once again! [...]

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The Best Quick Trip Tip… Ever!

By on November 30, 2012 in Pack

If you’ve been reading my blog of late, you probably have noticed a number of “2 days in ______” itineraries. It’s not that I wouldn’t love to have longer to explore world-famous destinations like Montreal, Seattle or Sydney, but I share the plight of so many other Americans in today’s economy… I only have two weeks [...]

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Snapshot of the Week: Chichen Itza, Mexico

By on November 26, 2012 in Dream, Snapshot

I am fresh back from my trip to Mexico. I had an awesome time… but am in the midst of some serious Cancun-withdrawal. To help me transition back to the real world, I wanted to share one of the experiences I had on my trip. One day during the week, I visited the Mayan ruins [...]

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