I’m a doer by nature. I have lists that have lists. My family motto growing up was “Find something productive to do.” I wake up in the morning asking “what’s the plan?” It’s not who I want to be. But it is who I am.

And so, as I sat on the deck of this cruise ship with no land in sight, I , of course, had my notepads, laptop and phone at the ready. I would use my time to figure stuff out. To plan next steps. To make this “downtime” productive.

And then I saw them.

About a half dozen birds leading the ship forward. Riding the wind. There was little discernible effort on their part. Wings flapped only when necessary. No extra effort. Just gliding.

That is, until they spotted their prize. Some fish in the water would make itself known and then everything changed. The birds would exert full effort to do the thing they are built to do. In that moment I saw laser focus and precision. A targeted dive. A mission with a purpose.

But, in between, none of that stress is visible in their body. They simply relax and ride the wind. Literally, go with the flow.

I shut my laptop, put my notebook aside and watched them for a long time. And in the end, I decided that we should all try to be a bit more like the birds.

That magical device that offers the opportunity to connect more, do more, see more, learn more… has become a constant reminder that we really can’t (and don’t have the time to) do/see/learn it all. What once seemed like infinite possibility, now feels like a bitter pill.

Recently, I removed social media from my phone. (Before you applaud, know that it’s a temporary move and not the first time I’ve done it.) Every so often I’ll delete the apps to ensure that going online takes a bit more effort; a conscious decision instead of a routine.

As a freelancer who works alone, it isn’t uncommon for my most consistent interactions to happen via my thumbs. And I realized I wasn’t enjoying the endless stream demanding I focus on stranger’s lives, dreams or recipes. Plus, the constant squeezing of the sides of my phone to create an impossible screenshot to-do list that I had no chance of ever completing left me feeling anxious.

Removing the apps from my phone always comes with a deep exhale. It really does feel good to cut all of those chains. But I also know it’s a temporary reprieve. As a travel writer, my camera and those apps are often a part of how I tell and share stories. I need them to effectively do my job. But that’s next week’s problem.

This week, there was a chance for a break. And instead of scrolling posts, I started going through all those photos and screenshots to root out the ones that are useful and remind myself that I’m not the Julia Child I think I am.

And that’s how I found this video.

I find it every few years and it never fails to delight. Captured by the talented Amanda Palmer 12 years ago, the video was done as part of a story I wrote for The Toronto Star about an RV trip through the Pacific Northwest. It is one of my favourite family trip memories.

As I watch the pint-sized versions of my kids, and hear their squeaky voices and high-pitched giggles, all the pain and pleasure of being a parent on the road comes flooding back. There is a joy in reminding myself that I have lived these moments, nor merely watched them float by on a screen.This is where I would rather “waste” my time.

I guess this is my way of encouraging you to take a break from the scrolling if you sense that you need one; to make time to get nostalgic about the memories you’ve already made. And, perhaps, to hop out and make some more magical moments before summer sets and we’re all complaining about how quickly it went.

I’ll be over here on Memory Island hoping that your last few weeks of summer include experiences that bring you joy years from now; and a life so filled with good times, that you’d rather scroll through those than anything the social media apps could serve you.

It takes place at the home of my aunt and uncle.

As a kid, staying with them was a regular occurrence. I was born only a year after my parents were married. Two years after my father - the youngest of his siblings - had emigrated from Jamaica. I was the much loved, unplanned baby doll that was passed from loving home to loving home while my parents figured out their new life in a new country. Night shifts and double shifts were common in those early years, and my parents were lucky to have an array of family and just-like-family aunts and uncles close by who’d simply fold me into their families for a few nights or long weekend. Those days are among my favourite memories. There was an endless supply of love. And as one of the rare nieces in the mix of a gaggle of brothers and male cousins, I was preened over and prized and loved.

On one particular weekend, as the story goes, I was with my aunt Winnie and Uncle Jr. There was a Christmas party at the hotel where my aunt worked and I, then about two years old, was gifted a “glow worm.” It was one of those riding toys where you straddle the back and scoot around Flintstones-style.

As the story goes, on seeing the toy I was so excited that I squealed with joy, “Yesus Christ! I lub it!”

It’s a simple moment, but to my aunt and uncle it was funnier than any stand-up comedy special. They would laugh until they cried, recalling how out of the mouth of a baby came this blasphemous cry of delight. (Clearly a term I’d overheard and held for the exact right moment.) It is a foundational story among my childhood recollections. I remember it clearly. But, of course, I don’t. When I examine the movie that plays in my mind’s eye, I see myself on the worm as a third-party might. They planted this memory in me through the retelling of it. At every reunion with my aunt and uncle during my entire life - be it a party, a funeral, a backyard bbq, their kitchen, my wedding - they would recount the story and remind me of the moment.

“Jr,” my aunt would call out over her shoulder while holding both my hands and looking into my eyes. “You remember when she got the worm?” And he’d sing it back without missing a beat, “Yesus Christ! I lub it!” And they would laugh. Tears in their brightened eyes, before diving into the next story.

“You remember when we caught her eating the hot dogs straight out of the fridge?”

And the laughter would continue. Sometimes at my expense. Always with love.

They had so many stories.

When you’re a teenager, and you’ve heard those stories a million times, you can take them for granted. You can silently think, “Here we go..,” as their eyes meet yours and the words start to fall from their mouths. You might even offer up the punchline before they get there. It won’t matter. They will just laugh and tell it again when you’re done.

The story, you’ll realize, isn’t being told for you. It’s theirs. You getting to hear it, is a gift and it’s one you won’t fully appreciate until you’re much older. It’s as an adult, maybe after you have kids of your own, that you’ll begin to collect those early memories like Easter eggs.

You’ll find yourself digging through the milk crates of your brain for clues to who you were and what makes you you. And you’ll treasure these glimpses into your childhood that tell you the story you could never tell yourself. And it’s then, if you’re lucky, that you’ll realize that throughout your life you’ve had people who loved you enough to hold on to those moments, like small treasures, delivering them to you throughout your life in soft, subtle ways that only truly resonate decades later.

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I have other memories with this dynamic duo. I remember my uncle teaching me how to make dumplings. Standing on a stool by his side at the counter as he rolled out the dough. He’d hand me a piece to work with, as he gently massaged the floured stickiness into twists and dropped them into sizzling hot oil.

I remember my aunt’s steady hand as she gave me my first chemical relaxer. I was 13 and had been forced to wait by my mother despite all the other girls’ at school already swinging straightened locks in the hallways. I remember how the two of them would stand behind me as parts were made with a fishtail comb. My mother cautioning my scissors-wielding aunt to make sure my “trims” never became “cuts.”

When I think of their home, I recall the delicate trinkets in curio cabinets, I needed to steer clear of when I played; the few steps that led up to the rooms in their home; the salon chairs with mounted hooded hair dryers in the basement. The freedom I felt to open their fridge or rummage their cupboards. They are cherished memories of a childhood that was already pretty stellar. Even more so now that they’re both gone.

My aunt passed away last year. Her final years were tougher than I’d have liked. Dementia transformed her and I hesitated to stain the image I had of her, with the angrier version she’d become. But one day, my mother called. She knew our relationship had been special and she gently let me know that my aunt wasn’t expected to live much longer. I was warned that she might not behave as I’d expect and I was braced for that.

“Auntie Winnie, it’s Heather.”

“Is that my baby?” she asked. And we had a beautiful time.

Then, a few weeks ago, I lost my uncle.

A community man who once ran a popular Jamaican food restaurant in Toronto, “Daddy G’s” personality was as large as life. Bold. Loving. Comical. There wasn’t a story you could tell him where he couldn’t find a dirty insinuation. (It was a talent that made him extremely popular with the teenage boys in my family.) But more than anything he radiated love. Each of us kids felt special when we were with him. And he was so loved in return.

Between them, I had storytellers I didn’t fully appreciate until recently. The things they said over and over again are now lore I share with my own kids. Reminders of who I am, where i came from, the precociousness of youth, the love that abides in the telling. I catch myself doing the same. Telling my boys their stories. Hoping to imprint on them, as my storytellers did on me. I cringe at the version of myself that thought they were silly or irrelevant. I’m so grateful to have lived long enough to recognize their importance; to hope to be a better storyteller myself.

Because that is the real lesson, isn’t it? When we are blessed with story tellers, we must allow them to tell those stories. Over and over again, so the memories can travel across lands and seas, keyboards and ethereal planes.

The gratitude I feel for my extended family was already heightened when I attended my uncle’s funeral this weekend. Through tears and laughter we celebrated a man whose legacy is clear. And then, just as the hearse with his body was rolling away, an older cousin pulled me aside. “Do you remember how you used to “karate chop” the dumplings next to him?” She asked. She recalled how, standing next to him I would give my dough a final decisive blow before it hit the pan. I’d forgotten. But, just like that, in the depths of grief, a new memory took shape. And a reminder: I have not lost all of my storytellers. We can all fill that role. I can do for others as was done for me.

The stories can continue. The love lasts beyond the grave. The gratitude runs deep.

A few weeks ago my son, Cameron graduated from the University of Ottawa. He’s the second of my two kids to do so and this time I knew what to expect.

I knew we should book a hotel early and try to snag extra tickets for the ceremony in advance. I knew where he’d go to get his robe on and where the best spots were to grab a photo once he’d donned it. My purse held the tissues that I knew I’d need and the rolled up poster I’d been sure to make the night before. My purse also held the purple pompoms I’d shake when they called his name. I was ready.

Just as we were leaving our home to start the drive to Ottawa, I caught Cameron removing something from the dryer and pushing it into his suitcase. I did a double take. Along with his well pressed suit, collared white shirt and tie, he was packing…a Spider-man costume.

Not a t-shirt. The entire neck to finger tips to ankles Spidey suit that he’d bought a few years ago and has been staple at movie premieres and halloween parties.

Cam loves Spider-man. A trait he inherited from his dad. But why, on the eve of his graduation from a prestigious university was he putting it in his bag?

“I’m going to wear it,” he told me.

I panicked. “You can’t!” I said. And he just looked at me.

Cameron is 21. He’s an adult. I can no more control what he wears than how much he eats. But he is a respectful child and it’s rare that he outrightly rejects my suggestions. He chose silence but he packed the suit. And on the morning of his graduation, he simply put it on underneath his suit and tie.

The ceremony went off without a hitch. They called his name. He crossed the stage. I hooted and hollered as planned. And then, I saw it. One hand gloved in Spidey fingers and motioning to the camera on stage. I’m betting most people missed it. But it made me smile.

And then I was ashamed.

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I didn’t want Cameron to wear a Spider-man costume on stage, because I was afraid. I was afraid that an esteemed institution would be put off by his costume; that they’d think less of him or think that his decision was disrespectful. I was worried about how it would look to others. What if someone thought he wasn’t serious about his education. Or just saw a Black boy fooling around.

But as he crossed the stage, I realized I was wrong. I was witnessing Black Boy joy in all its glory. He had decided to accept his degree as his full self. The self that has loved to climb and jump since he was a toddler. The self that saw himself in Miles Morales, the young Black protagonist in Into the Spiderverse. The self that earned a Magna Cum Laude designation on his Bachelor of Social Science degree.

He wasn’t afraid to be himself. And I had almost made him question that.

When we met up again after the big moment, I apologized. And what followed was a photo shoot that fully embraced his decision.

And as a result, I got a front row seat to his joy.

I’m proud of Cameron for the work he put into that degree. Even prouder of the man he has become and the way he continues to teach his mama. When I grow up I want to be more like him.

I’m almost 25 years into this parenting game. And still learning how to do it.

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But there’sone thing that has lingered in my mind.

In 2011, we sold everything we could and my family and I headed off on the adventure of a lifetime: a yearlong around-the-world trip. We hit 29 countries on six continents and came back refreshed and with new purpose. It was epic. But the entire time we were away, I couldn’t shake the thought, “What about all the kids who don’t get the opportunity to do a trip like this?”

I know how privileged we are. I know that travel is expensive andthat passports aren’t all the same. That the educational system can be flawed. And yet that flawed system is what people trust most. And this is where my regret comes in.

I wish I could have taken more kids with me. I tried. Before we left, we tried to get computers into classrooms here at home. The plan was that we would then be able to check in as we traveled, connecting students at home with the world. And it almost happened.

But, at the last moment, our best efforts fell through. And so, in the 14 years since we returned, there’s always been a part of me that regrets that we weren’t able to open the world up to more kids.

Until now.

Today, after years of efforts by a lot of incredible people (especially my co-creator, Original Content Lab), I’m pleased to share the news that I’ve been holding in for the better part of the last six months.

Ladies and Gentleman, may I introduce you to …. Globe Bros!

Next year, you, your kids and your grandkids will be able to follow the adventures of brothers Kayden and Miles, and their family around the world. The show is inspired by my family’s travels with our two sons, Ethan and Cameron.

I’m a co-creator and Executive Producer on the project. And, I can tell you that each episode is being developed with intention and care. We know that what kids are exposed to can change their view of the world, and I’m thrilled that we’ll finally have the chance to share some of the beauty we found.

Here’s today’s press announcement with all the details on the developers, producers, writers and animators, as well as more details on when and where you can watch it.*

I can’t wait to share more about this new adventure in the months to come.

Thanks for all of your support. I look forward to taking you with us on this next adventure.

*Media outlets looking for more information can reach out to Jessica.Labi@epicstorymedia.com.

But if there’s one thing I’m learning as a parent, it’s that the lessons we gain from our own parents, and they from theirs, aren’t always meant to be carried forward. Times change. People change. Societies change. And what may have worked to get you to work hard in life, might actually be the wrong message for your own kids … and for your adult self.

Above: The writer “letting it rest” on a Caribbean island.

Case in point? This ditty that, thanks to my parents, is engraved in my brain:

Good, better, best.

Never let it rest.

Til your good is better.

And your better best.

The idea is a common one: Work hard. Give it your all. Strive for greatness. But that’s when things get murky. “Never let it rest?” “Until your better is best?” Really?

That one has the markings of burnout all over it. (Ask me how I know.)

Perhaps, we should stop at better even if it isn’t best, even if best is within view. Even if Instagram offers up an easy route to best. Maybe better can be where we land safely, with rest as a possibility, with room for more life.

I’m learning that I actually need to let it rest. And that sometimes – most times – better is good enough.

What my parents needed to survive – to get them through their educations in Jamaica; across the world to Canada; into systems that didn’t see them as worthy; and through careers that weren’t prepared to give them anything without maximum effort – is no longer as necessary for their daughter or their grandchildren.

What else am I holding on to that no longer serves me? And how I can make sure I’m not carrying things forward because I’m used to them, as opposed to because they actually help? Even now – when my kids are young adults – I want to model to my children what it looks like to give yourself permission to question what you know, and to leave behind lessons that no longer serve you.

We’re already deep into 2025. The time for resolutions has long passed, but goals can be made at any time. And to me, September always feels like a fresh start. Going forward, I’m trying to be aware of the moments when I’m striving for best when better would suffice. I’m learning to let go of the self-imposed pressure and judgment to do more, and to remember to make time to rest.

Good. Better. Best.

Take the time to rest.

Sure, good could be better.

But sometimes good is best.

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Things I’m reading/watching/loving at the moment

1. The Air Canada Strike is over! When I started sharing this post it had just begun, so I’m grateful that the two sides seem to have come to an agreement. The short strike had major ramifications for travellers but even those of us who weren’t on the go at the time have come away with some valuable lessons. I’ll be putting pen to paper on that in the days ahead. If you want details on compensation offerings, click this.

2. Cameron’s heading to China! My son, Cameron, is spending a semester abroad this year and I’m so excited for him. It’s the latest in his solo travel experiences (He spent a month in Mexico earlier this year for a course as well.) Travel (obviously) has factored heavily into how I raise(d) my kids and watching them continue to find ways to meet the world reminds me why it all matters. I’m heading to Shanghai at the beginning of September to see his new home city. If you’ve got tips on what we should see and do before school starts, let me know!

3. Time with friends and family. I spent the loveliest afternoon with old friends and new ones the other day. I can count on one hand the number of times I looked at my phone – and most of that was to help my brain remember an eighties artist that wasn’t on the tip of my tongue. It was one of those evenings where you become painfully aware that the summer is coming to an end. This is your reminder to make the most of what’s left of it.

4. Exciting new projects on the horizon. Is vague-posting still a thing? Can’t share much yet but really happy to see new opportunities to share the travel I love with even more people in the months ahead. As soon as I can share details, I will!

5. My TV watching time has been decidedly dark in nature lately: Dept. Q and Friends and Neighbors. Both aren’t doing much for my hope for humanity. Grateful for any lighter fare, you want to send my way.

6. More Canada Travel! This year I’ve already had the chance to explore Alberta and PEI, alongside my home province of Ontario. Next month, I’ll return to Alberta (Jasper) for GoMedia - a gathering of all of the provinces and territories where they’ll share their news. (Hey editors/producers: Reach out if you’re looking for new Canadian content!)

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1. I had five TV appearances in eight days.

2. I celebrated the accomplishments of two of my favourite people.

3. I drove an electric vehicle from Toronto to Ottawa (and back).

4. I watched my firstborn receive his first degree.

5. I hosted a daylong backyard celebration.

Each of these was a first for me. It might surprise you to know that I don’t often walk into new experiences with confidence. Quite the opposite. My nerves are so fraught ahead of time that I over-plan and under rest. I imagine disasters before they happen and am on high alert in an effort to prevent them. (Spoiler: My superhero abilities are rarely actually needed.) Still, it means that even when things go right, I’m exhausted.

But despite the bone-tired weariness I feel today, the joy is palpable too. Those TV appearances (including this one on The Social) reconnected me with hosts I know and appreciate, and allowed me to share about a topic I love deeply.

When I cheered for ROYSON JAMES’ induction into the Order of Ontario, it was a chance to celebrate my mentor. If not for James, I’d never have had the chance to work at the Toronto Star all the way back in 1995. A move that has been pivotal to the rest of my career. The honour is well-earned and much deserved.

And only days later, I got to cheer for my pal AMY ROSEN. Her first novel, Off Menu is available now. A longtime travel and food writer renowned for her way with words, the novel is a first for her, and already winning high praise. Raising a glass to her at its launch was a privilege.

In between, I got to drive this sexy beast. I’ve been considering a hybrid vehicle for years, but the Cadillac LYRIQ I borrowed for a trip to Ottawa has convinced me I can go fully electric with my next vehicle. I’ll be sharing more on that experience on Instagram in the weeks to come. But suffice it to say that the roomy, smooth ride meant my parents could comfortably travel with us to the nation’s capital. And the powerful drive-ability convinced my not-so-sure-about-electric husband, Ish, that we could be an EV family.

My son, ETHAN DAVIS was the reason for that Ottawa trip. And the moment I saw Ethan in his gown at convocation, my heart caught in my throat. I started crying the moment the first speaker took to the stage. And then I was cheering so loudly as he crossed the stage that I forgot to take a proper photo of it. Meanwhile, he crossed with confidence, taking time to wave at us as he went. There are a few moments in life that, in the moment they’re happening you know you’ll remember them forever. This one, for me, is one of those moments. So very proud of that kid who has persevered consistently, in the face of incredible odds.

And then this weekend, on a day that the weather forecasters said there’d definitely be rain, Ish and I hosted dozens of people in our sun-drenched backyard. They came to celebrate Ethan. And though it was really busy, I took a moment at the party’s mid-way point to look out and take in ALL THE PEOPLE who took time out of their weekend to be with us. It takes a village to raise happy, healthy kids and we have a phenomenal one.

Each of these moments had things that didn’t go exactly as I’d like. Bumps, hiccups, unexpected delays. There were invitations we forgot to send. There were overestimates (on how long it’d take us to eat breakfast before the ceremony) and underestimates (seems like we could’ve done with one more round of mains at the BBQ). But in the end, I look back and see the joy, all the same.

The lesson: Trust the process, celebrate the small wins (and the big ones),Give things the time they need to blossom, rest when you can and always plan for late-night snackers.

People often think it’s all the travelling I do that makes me lucky. It’s really not. The travel delivers, for sure, but it’s the lens it affords me to realize the opportunities for joy at home where I really win. And that’s the kind of luck we can all strive for.

Things I’m reading/watching/loving at the moment

1. I finished Forever, and immediately went to Spotify to download all the playlists. No regrets.

2. There was no real time for TV over the last few weeks, and so instead I found myself digging into podcasts again. Lately, I’ve enjoyed Good Hang with Amy Poehler and anything featuring Kathryn Hahn.

3. It’s porch season! Every summer mine becomes my outdoor office and those first days that I can sit outside and get a sunshine boost are the best. I killed all of my plants from last year, so I’ll need to find some new accoutrements to make it cozy. Have un-killable favourites? Send them my way.

Thanks for reading. Travel well.

Heather

I don’t make a habit out of visiting crime scenes when I travel. But I felt compelled to see the space that had launched a movement and become a shrine for a community’s grief.

There is nothing particularly remarkable about the area where George Floyd was killed. It’s a corner that looks a lot like ones I’ve seen all over the country. But the memorials that are laid out across the street and sidewalks - art, posters, prayer candles, items of clothing - made it instantly recognizable to anyone who saw the news of the time. This was the place where an atrocity happened that was so heinous, so painful, so universally human that it ignited an outcry from a city, a country, the world…only five years ago.

When I was making arrangements to visit the city, I knew that I didn’t want to visit this area without someone who could offer perspective at my side. I found that person in Jeanelle Austin at the headquarters - of Rise and Remember. The organization was created after the murder, when locals took it upon themselves to maintain the area, care for the items that were left at the memorial and speak to the people - yes, even gawking tourists - who wanted to understand.

She showed me the painstaking work they were doing to manage all of the memorial items. To preserve the signs and art left in tribute. She talked to me about the museums across the country who were interested in showcasing some of the artefacts, all in the name of continuing the conversation.

And then Austin kindly offered to show me the neighbourhood. She walked us past the giant raised black fist sculpture that marks the blocks most affected. The took us over to the makeshift graveyard where the names of dozens of people who’ve died at the hands of police are printed on tombstone-shaped stakes in the ground. She walked us through the greenhouse where some of the plants that were left are cared for. To the gas station turned mural and graffiti laden expressionist art that depicts the rage, grief and pride of a community. She told me where things stood. And I understood, better than I ever had, the grief and rage that simmer here.

I didn’t cry when I was in the square, but I was filled with sadness. The kind you feel as a human when you understand that another human once stood where you now stand, and cried out for their mother as they lay dying in front of a crowd of people who couldn’t/wouldn’t/didn’t intervene. It was a choking sadness. And one that never relied on the question of why it all happened to be understood

But when I think back on my time in George Floyd Square, what I feel more than sadness is pride. It’s pride for a community that stood up and said, “he was ours, this neighbourhood is ours, and we’ll decide what happens next.” And who, five years later, continue to monitor, protect, preserve, push for better.

And as strange as it is to say, that day in Minneapolis left me hopeful. I hope that Austin and her neighbours and their allies will somehow continue to find the strength to use their grief and rage to make their community better. And though it’s too much to ask, I find myself hoping that they can keep the fire burning until the rest of the world wakes up and once again remembers what injustice looks like.

Things I’m reading/watching/loving at the moment

Forever on Netflix: I’ve loved Judy Blume for most of my life. My weathered books still live on my bookshelf. Forever was likely the last of her books I read before becoming an adult and I loved it. To see it reinterpreted with a modern day context gave me so much joy. Do yourself a favour and don’t binge it. Let it linger.

Planning for PEI: I’m heading to eastern Canada in a few weeks with my folks and can’t wait to show them this gem of a province. I’m taking all suggestions on where we should go and what we should see. Drop me a note.

Shopping for waterproof mascara. If the city of Ottawa has a flood in a few weeks, it’s likely my fault. I have no intention of holding back the tears as I watch my first-born son cross the stage for convocation. So proud of that kid.

Getting the inside scoop on Mexico City and Oaxaca : My youngest son just came home after three weeks in Mexico and I’m reminded of how travel can transform. If your kids have opportunities to join work abroads, summer semesters abroad or exchanges and you can make it happen, I strongly encourage you to invest.

Thanks for reading. Travel well.

Heather

I heard myself saying this to someone lately and was reminded of how true that can be. The simple sentence is the reminder that often the people who are best at helping others, neglect themselves. So, the dentist skips his own check-ups. The hair dresser wears her hair in a simple ponytail. The housekeeper rarely makes time to organize his own cupboards. When I spoke the sentence, a verbal finger-wagging at my victim, I realized that three of my fingers pointed back at me. I needed to look in the mirror. This travel writer is sorely in need of a vacation.

That statement might surprise you. I understand. It’s because so much of what travel writers do for a living showcases the best parts of your vacation. We consistently show you the beauty of travel, help you navigate the bumps and offer up a mild scolding when you leave those PTOs on the table.

But that’s the job: to do the research so that your vacation can be phenomenal. Those are the restaurants you’ll be able to dine in, the hammock you’ll be able to snooze in, the beach waiting for you to walk it. My job is to visit a destination and, in as short a time as possible, glean what a week of lazing there would be like. But actual lazing is rarely part of the job.

This is NOT a complaint. I love what I do and I feel privileged to do it. I was a medical malpractice litigator once. Believe me, I know the grass is likely greenest right where I am.

But all of that travel, (last year I flew more than 79,000 miles on Air Canada flights alone) helped me forget that I haven’t had a real vacation in a long time.

And so this week, I booked one. Never has anyone smiled so wide while giving money away to someone else. Hitting that button may have been a lifesaver and in the immediate afterglow, here’s what I remembered:

1. The world feels less gloomy when there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. Just knowing that I had a vacation on the books turned my mood around.

2. You can’t pour from an empty cup. We hear it all the time because its true. And you may not even realize your cup is running low but there will be signs: exhaustion, irritability, feelings of helplessness… Your body requires attention. And the engine will burn out if you don’t tend to your own needs.

3. If you’re type-A personality (*raises hand) and self-employed (*raises other hand) giving yourself time off can feel like failure. That’s time when I could be hustling hard. Or helping my kids. Or checking in on my parents. Often, this is why it takes so long for us to get to the point where we recognize we are in a danger zone, physically, mentally and emotionally. I wish I knew how to eradicate the guilty feelings, thinking of a vacation can bring on. I’m working on that. But the minute I booked the vacation, those thoughts were replaced with ones that celebrated how much better I’ll be able to give to those I love, when I’m rested and ready.

4. My type -A, list-making self can work for me. In this moment when the importance of taking time is clear, I’m making plans for the vacation that will follow this one. I’m already looking at the calendar to see where I can schedule some time. I’ll be booking my next vacation, before I finish this vacation, because then it becomes a commitment and those are harder to cancel.

5. Despite the lavish lifestyle I often share through my stories, I myself am not rich. Taking cash out of my needs for my wants isn’t an easy decision. But – and this is a lesson I’ve learned over and over again in my life – self-preservation IS a need. Everything else falls apart without it. You don’t have to book the Ritz to have a break. Find it where you can afford it. For me, this trip, will lean heavily on saved frequent flyer miles. If those weren’t available to me, maybe my vacation, would happen closer to home.

My point: If you, like me, have been pushing your vacation aside, I respectfully suggest you reconsider. Have some stacked PTO you haven’t paid attention to? Let this be your sign. Working for yourself and not building in that downtime? Trust me, it’s a recipe for disaster.

While the dentist may have the worst teeth**, it doesn’t have to be that way. Especially if they’ve got a friend who can point out the looming dental disaster and offer up a mirror.

I hope that I’ve been that mirror for some of you today.

Stay warm and well,

Heather

** This post is in no way a reflection of my own dentist, whose teeth are impeccable. ;)

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Together we’re working to compile data for Canadian Family Travel Survey 2024. This latest edition is looking for your insights to help us better understand the family travel trends that matter most to you, and to help advocate for the needs of families like yours. And it’s now live! Your insights are invaluable in helping us understand family travel trends and advocating for the needs of families travelling with kids.

Can you help?

It only takes 10 minutes to complete (perfect task to accompany your morning coffee!) , and as a thank-you, you’ll be entered to win 1 of 2 $250 gift cards to the store of your choice—just in time for the holidays!

Click here to take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7V2ZRNH

Thank you for sharing your feedback and supporting families on their travel journeys.

Sincerely,

Heather

“ Look for what is good and you will find it.”— Anne Perry

What a year it has been. Are you feeling it too? Like you’ve been running a sprint since January 2023 with no clear sign of where the finish line might appear? I only recently realized just how fast I’ve been moving due in large part to the outside forces that conspired to send me clues: My knees ( a story for another day) and my inbox.

I collect Aeroplan miles and about a week ago they sent me my stats for the year. I’ve travelled more than 70,000 miles with them this year which is only a part of my total flying time. Still, it’s a total, they say, that is equivalent to circling the globe three times. I feel like I did it on foot.

This year’s highlight reel is an impressive one. I’ve spent more time on the continent of Africa than ever before with emotionally powerful stops in new-to-me destinations that included Botswana, Senegal and The Gambia.

I completed my quest to visit every province and territory in Canada. (It was a dream my mom put in place when I was a kid and it stuck.) I went to places I hadn’t heard of before (Guana Island) and found new stories in places I’ve been many times (New York city, Maryland,Bermuda, New Orleans…). And the lessons learned in all of them are still rolling out through my stories and appearances.

Speaking of which: What an honour to share my stories in incredible publications like Conde Nast Traveler, Travel +Leisure, Afar, National Geographic, The Globe and Mail and The Toronto Star. And who would’ve ever thought I’d be a regular on television shows like The Social and CHCH Morning Live for so many years, or appear as a guest judge on HGTV’s hit show Renovation Resort (It’s available in a bunch of spots including Apple TV) ? What a year.

It is a tremendous privilege to do the job that I do. I don’t take it lightly. There are choices I have made in my life to make this travel fantasy possible. (Buh bye legal career.) But there are also aspects of my good fortune that have nothing to do with me. My parents chose the country of my birth. People fought long before I got here for freedoms I currently enjoy. No one is bombing my country. I don’t struggle to find clean water or good food. I try not to take that for granted.

My travels have taught me that the world is cruel and unfair and beautiful and kind. And we do ourselves (and each other) little favour when we fail to reflect on and learn from all of it.

That’s what I’ve been doing this week and below you’ll find some of the stories and appearances that taught me something this year, as well as some of the places I hope to bring you to in 2024.

In the meantime, I wish you a 2024 that brings joy, love, peace and moments that make you smile, even when things are hard. And I hope your 2023 taught you the lessons that help to make that happen.

Happy new year to you all,

Heather

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Lessons I learned (and shared) in 2023:

What it feels like to love in transition: That family trip that ended with sending my firstborn off to university and the empty nester-moon that proved I’d learned my lesson by the time my second son left home.

That I’m willing to share everything I learn. Even if it puts you to sleep.

That you don’t have to stray far from home to find fantastic travel opportunities.

That there will always be opportunities to find some new spots for fantastic getaways.

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Where you’ll find me in 2024!

2024 is already gearing up to be an incredible year of travel. You can be sure that this year I’ll be sharing stories that inspire, educate and entertain. Here are just a few of the spots already on my calendar.

[If you are an editor looking for new stories from any of these spots, ping me (all my contact info is below). I’ve got some great ideas and itineraries lined up!]

January: Minneapolis, Minnesota, New York City, NY

February: Antarctica

March: Portugal

May: Montana

June: Newfoundland

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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“"The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it and join the dance." — Alan Watts

September has always been one of my favourite months…and not just because the nerd you know me to be today is the nerd I have always been.

There’s just something about September that will always feel like a fresh start to me. It’s my new year, far more than January first. It has helped that my kids return to school each September. And when that school was elementary school or high school, it was pretty predictable. When it turned into university, it came with a gut punch I really wasn’t prepared for.

I’ve watched for years as parents lamented the leaving the nest drop-offs of their post-secondary kids and prepared myself (I thought) for when it was my turn. Even going so far as to make sure there was an epic trip before we parted ways that first time. But, it didn’t matter. After dropping Ethan, my oldest, off at university, I came home thinking I’d handled it well only to find myself doubled over in pain and sobs a few hours later.

So when it was time to take Cameron, my second son, off to school, Ish and I came up with a new plan. When we pushed this bird out of the nest, we’d fly the coop too. It worked. Were we sad? Sure! But being sad on a beach is a way better. Plus, we were now empty nesters and ready to return to figuring out who we’d become as a couple. Doing all of that at an Exclusive Resorts property in Nevis just felt right. ;)

You can read all about that adventure here.

All of this to say: If you’re struggling with a drop off this year? I get it. If you’re handling it by running away? I get that too. I wish you the easiest, softest September you can muster. And I want to offer you a glimpse from your future, as I prepare to send my two back for another year. They’ll be back before you know it, your story doesn’t end here and the future is bright.

Wishing you a soft landing September,

Heather

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Looking for a new place to stay?

I popped in for a night at the ARLO NoMad in NYC and loved this newest take on the tiny room stay. Where the NoMad is different from others I’ve tried is in one serious detail: Floor to Ceiling windows in their SkyView King rooms! It felt like I was floating on a cloud above the city. The 249-room boutique property is definitely Instagram-worthy and I expect to see those wrap-around floor-to-ceiling window views of Manhattan popping up everywhere. Also, don’t miss A.R.T. NoMad on the 31st floor. The rooftop lounge offers incredible views and drinks to match.

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How I’m feeling this month:

Hungry: Here’s what to eat on a trip to Toronto.

Ready for a road trip: Here’s one that impacted me long after it was over.

Awestruck: Africa never disappoints.

Something to think about:

The recent weather phenomenons including wildfires and floods has me thinking more and more about how we can travel better. I liked this pragmatic approach one writer took on a recent trip. No answer is THE solution, but thinking about what we do and why is certainly a step in the right direction.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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“This is my life. It is my one time to be me. I want to experience every good thing.” ~ Maya Angelou

Above: All smiles in Yukon, Canada - the most recent trip in a summer filled with travel.

Soooo…how’s your summer going? Let me guess: It is whizzing by in a blur. You can’t believe it’s August. And why is it SO hot? I get it.

This summer has been memory-making. So many beautiful trips and new friends made. But it’s also been exhausting. A lot of running around between trips, family management stuff and long hours at my computer. It has left me dragging, so for the next few weeks I’m doing the one thing travel writers rarely do…I’m staying put.

I’m about a week in to this slower life. As a result - right at the time when news reports are warning me that summer is coming to an end - I feel like I’ve got a new lease on the season. Walks with Ish and movie nights with my sons are filling up my time and my soul. I’ve tried new recipes, am working on re-establishing my health routine and settling in for long stints on my porch for chats with the neighbours.

It’s not a staycation, but it is offering some of those benefits. I’m recharging and I know from experience, it’ll make for a better on-the-road Heather when I head back out.

I hope your summer is offering you both time on-the-go and time on-the-slow, as well. If we don’t make time for the things we need, no one else will.

Wishing you phenomenal travels or incredible downtime,

Heather

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Looking for something new to watch?

Are you a fan of home renovation shows? Then, you’ll want to catch all the episodes of the latest offering from DIY superstars Scot McGillivray and Bryan Baeulmer. And guess who showed up as a guest judge in last night’s episode? Me! You can catch the show Sunday nights on HGTV in the USA and wherever you stream your favourite HGTV shows.

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Where to hear me:

On NPR, I spoke with Here&Now’s Scott Tong about some of my favourite road trips and offered some tips when you hit the road this summer. You can listen here.

What I’m thinking about:

AirTags Still Rule

I’ve already professed my love of Apple AirTags when it comes to checked luggage, but you know I tuck them in my carry-on items too, right? I’ve also heard of people leaving them in their own cars and boats to help in case of theft.

Travel without a neighbour

I flew Ethiopian Airlines to Tanzania in June and the Cloud 9 service was exactly what the doctor ordered. I’ll be sharing the experience on my Instagram reels in the weeks ahead. But what I didn’t know is that you can also buy yourself a row on the plane! I received an email that said for a fee “starting from $225 USD” I could “own the whole row” on my next flight allowing me to “lie down and get some rest!” It’s an interesting idea - especially if it’s less than the cost of an upgrade - and you can bet one I’ll be keeping my eye out for on other flights.

Trusted Travellers can keep their liquids in their bags

The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) and Transport Canada recently announced their Verified Traveller program. Now NEXUS members can expect (depending on location and checkpoint) to:

·       Leave permitted liquids, aerosols and gels in your carry-on
·       Leave laptops and electronics in your carry-on
·       Keep shoes, belts, light jackets and headwear on
·       and keep small items in your pockets

To learn more about the screening benefits offered across various airports and checkpoints, visit the Verified Traveller page on CATSA’s website.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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“Wisdom begins in wonder.” ~ Socrates

Above: The closest I usually come to being “outdoorsy.”

“Seasons change. Feelings Change.” - Expose, 80’s pop group.

Oprah often speaks of the things she “knows for sure.” She is far more confident than I. There is very little that I am truly certain of beyond my love for family and friends. I thought I also loved caffeine and chocolate. But recently that relationship was disrupted in a way that makes me unsure .

I spent 7 days at Mountain Trek in British Columbia. It’s a high-end retreat that aims to transform its guests. There are physical aspects to that change, but the biggest ones are mental. A focus on meditation - both traditional and forest bathing options, good, healthy food, and getting outside, turned this non-adventurous, happiest-on-the-couch-with-her-laptop introvert into a backpack wearing, sips from a 3L water bladder, eats an apple on the side of the mountain type of gal.

No one is more surprised than me.

When the kids were little, I often got outdoors by proxy. But by choice? When I’m home, I’m happiest watching the world pass by from my porch.

It took a semi-forced exodus to change my mind. But if I really think about it ,the transformation that happened at Mountain Trek is part of a series of transformations that are always happening in all of us, all of the time. It was the next step in a series of steps my body has been craving since the pandemic began to wane.

The week before Mountain Trek, knowing 3-hour hikes and coffee deprivation were in my future, I spent a week at the Adventure Travel Trade Association mini-conference in Maine. It’s an area of travel I’d like to be able to share more about with readers. There was a much shorter hike there, but it was a confidence builder. And seeing all of the adventurers in attendance, of all shapes, sizes, ethnicities and abilities…helped me to remember that there is room in the outdoors for us all.

My week at Mountain Trek wasn’t an easy week, but it was a week made easier by the support team. Not everyone will be able to afford this adventure. But you can take some of the basics and move them into your own life. Drink more water. Walk more often. Breathe more deeply. (In fact, the Mountain Trek website offers free recipes and ideas.)

Embracing your inner outdoorsy person takes effort (ask me how I know) but after a few nibbles of that outdoor life, I’m feeling better and more motivated to get up off the porch. And, like any good evangelist, I’m wishing you the same.

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Making the outdoors more comfortable for all

If hiking brings to mind, thin bodies and expensive gear, you’ve likely seen a hiking brochure. Don’t fit the mold and you might feel left out. But things are slowly changing for the better.

Recent trips reminded me of two game-changing movements that could turn the tide and finally encourage more people to get outside.

Gear Sharing: I love this concept. A lot of us can’t afford the top priced stuff but want to have outdoor trips  too. I saw this concept most recently while visiting Millinocket,Maine. The Katahdin Gear Library allows anyone to borrow everything from bikes to helmets to skis to backpacks to help you get outside. The great news is that these spots are popping up all over. Just search for “gear library” and your closest city to find them. In the Greater Toronto Are, check out the University of Toronto Outing Club, Arcteryx Gear Libray and the BIPOC outdoor gear library in Guelph .

Gear You Want to Wear: Another concept I love seeing is the increase in fitness gear that caters to people of all sizes and fashion tastes. You don’t have to wear gray and black to be outside, and you don’t have to already be fit and/or skinny to get into a great jacket. Helly Hansen which is one of the most popular gear designers out there has all kinds of offerings that now cater to all sizes and sentiments. I tested out some the items recently and was pleasantly surprised by the colour choices available and boots that didn’t require me to break them in before hitting the trails. And I’m excited to get my hands on some of the items in the Unlikely Hikers collection at Merrell.com collection.

Here’s hoping more outfitters move in this direction. The outdoors should be for everyone.

Now that you have the gear, I know exactly where you should go. Read all about it by clicking over to our post on Globetrottingmama.com by clicking the link below.

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What we’re thinking about this week:

If you’re entering those messy middle years when aging parents and older kids collide, you’ll take comfort in reading about how Asha Dornfest manages it.

Whether you call Canada home or you’re looking for a place for your next family vacation, these hidden gems from writers who know them best are worth considering.

Did you catch my story about travelling to NYC with my son? You can read that here or pop over to my Instagram feed (@byheathergd) and check out this reel for some ideas for a trip of your own.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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Life is uncharted Territory. It reveals its story one moment at a time. Leo Buscaglia

Mother’s Day Gift-Giving

Psst! I know the secret to gift-giving. It’s the fail safe option no matter the occasion - birthdays, graduations, sentimental Hallmark holidays…even the anniversary of the day you first ate at an Italian restaurant with your partner (not to be confused with the day you first ate Thai food with your partner!) I know the gift that any and everyone in your life will always appreciate. And it isn't flowers, candles or fancy dinners out. (Not that any of that isn't lovely too.) It is time.

With Mother’s Day around the corner, many will be searching for the perfect way to show their love. And I guarantee you that if you make time…for her, to honour her or to honour your feelings about her, you’re guaranteed to come out ahead.

How that time is spent may depend on where and how a mom factors into your life (given, chosen or lost). New moms might need time to themselves without having to worry about little ones. Moms in the middle may be wishing for time with the teens doing something that won’t erupt in arguments or snarky comments. And moms of older kids may be hoping for a visit where their phone stays in their pocket.

The gift of time works for Mother’s Day, but its genius is that it really works for any time you’re pondering gift-giving. My family gave up Christmas gift exchanges years ago. Instead? We gift time - together, doing the things we love, with the people we love. It hasn’t let me down yet.

And travel can factor into that gift-giving too.

What I love about travel - well, one of many things really - is that it doesn’t have to involve a huge financial cost. Yes, bucket list trips are the dream, but the act of leaving your house, gathering someone you love and exploring a place that is new to you - a block, a city or a country away - all counts equally. This year, whether for Mother’s Day or that Italian food-eating anniversary, why not scrap the expected, and show up with a gift of time instead.

Let me know how it goes!

This month’s travel highlights

I’ve been on the road a lot over the last few weeks and have been dutifully sharing the experiences on Instagram. The hope is that they offer you moments of joy during your scrolling. Pop over to @byheathergd for a glimpse of some of my most recent activities including a visit to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, talking honeymoons on The Social on CTV and tips for sustainable travel in Hawaii.

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Things to Share with your family this month…

Listen to Milwaukee Bucks basketball star Giannis Antetokounmpo talk about what  failure is not.

Introduce your kids to your childhood with author Judy Blume

Get sustainable fast using these simple climate change hacks

Prepare for your next trip to the U.S.A. The United States are ending vaccine requirements for foreign entry. Here’s what you need to know.

And here’s a story about a trip I did with my mom and oldest son, along with some pointers on how to make intergenerational trips work.

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If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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“Easter egg hunts are proof that your kids can find things when they really want to.” - Anonymous

“How can it already be April?!?”

Sound familiar? I can relate. Every month I’m genuinely shocked at how quickly time is passing. Weren’t we just wrapping up the holidays? How can it already be Easter?!? But time, as the saying goes, waits for no one. So here we are.

While we can’t slow time , we cam slow down. As I write to you, I’m in Namibia. I’m about halway through a safari and cultural trip with CroisiEurope where rushing gets you nowhere. We meander along rivers, eyes peeled for hippos and elephants. We walk long dusty roads between villages to meet the people of each region. We linger over dinners and have time to watch every inch of a sunset.

Being here is a reminder that the issue isn’t how fast time goes, it’s how little we appreciate it in the rush. I’m going to do my best to carry the lessons I’m learning here, home with me. You don’t have to get to Namibia (though I’d highly reccomend it) to feel this way. Create slow moments by choosing to sip your coffee at a window instead of your computer screen, building in a morning meditation ritual, or going for a walk outside at the peak of your day.

The time we’re given is finite, it’s true. But, with the right amount of slow moments, we can stretch it just a little bit further.

Easter

Do your Easter plans require a road trip? Globetrotting Mama has a few travel-friendly ideas that will help you avoid the tantrums and tap into some fun. For the rest of our Easter tips, see visit the GTM blog.

Games, Puzzles and Virtual Field Trips

Before you leave, hop online where you can find some Easter-themed games and puzzles. These could range from crossword puzzles to wordsearches, or you might even find some more creative games you can complete as a family. Websites like TeachersPayTeachers can be a great resource for finding simple, printable items. You can also use those tablets in a resourceful way! If you have service, check out some virtual field trip options related to the holiday or springtime. These will keep kiddos entertained and offer an educational spin to your road trip.

Pack some Festive Snacks

No road trip is complete without the right snacks. Why not mix in an Easter theme. Even though you may be tempted to stock up on jellybeans, a Cadbury Cream Egg or Peeps, remember you’ll be stuck in the car with those sugar-high kids for several hours. Instead, consider packaging your kiddos’ snacks with an Easter theme. Want to get creative? Head over to The Pioneer Woman’s website for some creative inspiration for your Easter treats.

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April news you can use!

• Want to change your perspective on the world, consider trips that literally change your viewpoint. If you’re in Phoenix, check out Hot Air Expeditions

• With spring comes beautiful weather, here are my tips on getting the kids outdoors and finding adventure near you!

• If you love international travel paired with luxury outdoor getaways, these five experiences might be for you.

• Here are some soft-luggage recommendations for those of you thinking about taking a cruise or yacht trip.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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“Spring won’t let me stay in this house any longer! I must get out and breathe the air deeply again.” - Gustav Mahler

Who’s ready for springtime? I am definitely among those who are happy to wave goodbye to the colder temperatures and grey days. This year, Ontario had more than it’s fair share (see our link below) and believe me, I felt it.

But this winter I also travelled more than I have in a longtime, and even a few days of sunshine made a huge difference in my mood and outlook. Even if it rains where I’m going, just the act of travel has a way of fixing any internal “grey” feelings .

Whether you’ve been lucky enough to get away already or are planning your next escape, there’s no time like the present to start thinking about what that might look like. Here’s hoping this week’s newsletter gets your creative juices going and that soon, you’ll have your own selection of travel stories to share.

Spring Travel Ideas

Spring is a beautiful and picturesque time to travel! GTM thought we’d give you a sneak peek at some ideal spring travel that will bring you calm, relaxation, and some beautiful views. For a few more spring travel suggestions, check out our blog.

Amsterdam, Holland

Though Amsterdam is always exciting in all seasons, it is particularly scenic during Tulip Season. The Amsterdam Tulips are a perfect and colorful backdrop for any selfie! If you have a trip scheduled to Amsterdam in April or early May, be sure to make a stop to see the massive, colorful tulip fields. You can even attend Tulip Festival 2023 from March 23rd through May 14th.

Iceland

A chillier destination, but full of unique sights. Stop at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon for a boat or nature tour. Keep your eyes peeled for the Aurora Borealis in the evening. And be sure to enjoy Diamond Beach to see the appealing contrast of volcanic black sand, glacial ice and blue sky !

Things to Share…

• If you’re looking for a Spring Break trip that is both fun AND educational, check out this GTM blog

• Cruises can be an all-inclusive way to see a particular location, but have you ever heard of an Around the World in 180 Days Cruise? Read more here

• Need a good read while you’re on vacation? Listen to this segment on The Next Chapter with Shelagh Rogers where I share my top three books that feature journalists who travel.

• In Parent vs. Kid, readers get recommendations for five family vacation spots where everyone in the family gets what they want.

• It’s never too soon to get started on summer travel plans, here are 51 Great Family Summer Vacation Ideas

• Here’s another article on great summer trips for families and kids of all ages

• I was a guest judge on Episode 2 of HGTV’s newest show Renovation Resort. I was tasked with choosing the best living space out of four incredible cabins. Which one would you want to stay in? Check it out here

• I love Amber Mac’s newsletter (you should subscribe). Recently she shared this information about kids’ brains.

• This article is an interesting read for anyone who has debated how much of their family’s lives to share online.

• And this interesting article on Ontario’s darkest winter in 80 years proves explains why we might be gloomier than usual up here.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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“We travel, not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” - Unknown

A Note from Heather

Whether your kids get a March Break or a Spring Break, I’m willing to bet the whole family is counting down to the time away from school. For a lot of families it will also be the prime time to hit the road, rails and skies in search of a much needed vacation. When my kids were little, it also raised a financial dilemma. With everyone looking for a vacation at the same time, deals were elusive. Recently, I spoke with travel agents who told me the situation is worse this year. Our collective desire to get away after years of feeling cooped up has been a boom for the travel industry, but also left families on a budget in a dilemma. As prices rise alongside the cost of daily necessities, trips that were once a guaranteed deal are suddenly out of reach.

I often push for the importance of travel in my writing. It’s something I believe it wholeheartedly. But, I also understand how an Instagram view of travel has led many to forget that there are options beyond faraway places and expensive resorts. If you haven’t been able to secure an affordable trip for your family this year, consider getting creative with spots closer to home. When my kids were little, turning March Break into a week of exploring our hometown or the city next door was more than enough to get them excited and to switch our mindsets to fun.

However you choose to spend your time, I hope your family spends time together that creates the kind of memories you’ll look back on with a smile years later.

Planning for Spring Break

All great vacations have to start somewhere, and that place is usually the planning phase. As Spring Break approaches over the course of the next month, get the family together to decide on a few things. Here’s what to consider:

• What does our budget look like? Just because the budget is tight doesn't mean you have to forego the fun. In this article I share some ways to save money on your vacation.

• Next, what type of vacation do you want to experience? Consider weather, domestic vs. international, activities. If you’re the family that typically goes to the beach, you may want to mix it up and try a cold-weather destination or even a theme park.

• Finally, how long are you looking to stay? If a week-long excursion isn’t in the cards this year, consider booking an alternative type of accommodation. Staying at a treehouse or Getaway Cabin can be more memorable when you don’t have too many days to invest. The kids are more likely to remember that unique locale than then length of the vacation anyway!

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Check out these links…

• Podcasts can make those long road trips more interesting. If you have a passion for history, travel and podcasts, check out Travel with Rick Steves . For more Family Travel centered conversations check out The Jetsetting Family.

• Good Housekeeping shares the 10 Best Spring Break Destinations for Families in this article

• If you’re taking a road trip, try scheduling in some nature breaks to calm antsy travellers. Get inspired and read more here.

• If you’re considering a trip that engages with wildlife, you’ll love this important update .

• Considering pulling your son or daughter out of school early for that spring break vacation? Check out this GTM blog on the teacher’s perspective.

• This article shares some unique new travel trends that have arrived after two years of lockdown and pandemic restrictions. It might help you think of creative ways to travel this year.

• We’ve been sharing tips on Carry-On only travel on the @byheathergd Instagram page. Here’s a video sharing some family travel luggage tips and here’s one that offers a suggestion on the two items that make every carry-on travel attempt better!

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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How has your year been so far? Here in Toronto the weather has dipped to record cold temperatures at times, making it very easy to dream of warm weather and white sand. Last month, I did more than dream. I set out on two trips to new-to-me destinations that really scratched my travel itch. The first was on a crewed yacht through the British Virgin Islands. (It is as comfortable and luxurious as you’re imagining.) And the second took me to the lush, green island of Dominica (not to be confused with the Dominican Republic which is FAR larger.) Both trips offered opportunities to learn while I was enjoying them. Conversations with locals changed “trips” into “visits” and I feel pretty lucky to have had the opportunity and privilege to do both.

I hope your travel plans present you with those chances to connect too. Take the time to strike up a conversation and you’ll never be disappointed. Step outside the all-inclusive or just make time to chat with the staff who is hosting you. Any interaction with a local is bound to give you a deeper understanding of where you are. And what’s the point of travelling if you aren’t learning more about the world as you go?

More Sites to Visit to Honour Black History Month

Recently we shared a blog including four destinations to visit during Black History Month 2023. Since there are so many places to visit, we are continuing to share more today. Please check out this new blog post. Each of these destinations offer the chance to learn a bit of history, honor Black culture and support Black-owned businesses.

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Things to Share…

• MLK Jr, Malcom X and James Baldwin are household names, but what about their mothers? Learn more in this NPR podcast episode: Anna Malaika Tubbs: The Three Mothers

• The news out of Turkiye and Syria is devastating. Via Project Hope, you can donate to Turkiye and Syria and aid in Earthquake Recovery

• Take a look at this man, Will “Akuna” Robinson, who is reportedly the first Black man to complete the triple crown of hiking!

• Check out my story in National Geographic on How reading the night sky helped Black Americans survive. You can share this lesson with your children by reading the famous children’s book, Follow the Drinkin’ Gourd. And take a moment to observe the night sky once you’ve read through the story!

• Planning a trip to the UK? By 2024 you may need a permit (and to pay a fee) to get in. Read about it here.

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If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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“Travel makes you realize that no matter how much you know, there’s always more to learn.” - Nyssa P. Chopra, The Cultureur

It’s February. A month when love is top of mind. It’s fitting that it’s also Black History Month - a time when the spotlight shifts to focus on Black people across the diaspora and their contributions to society.

This is a good thing.

Just like with any other celebratory month, it offers a chance to stop, reflect, champion and support people whose experiences might be different than your own. This month falls on the heels of yet another tragic loss of life. The grotesque attack on Tyre Nichols showcased the worst of humanity.

One of the reasons I believe in travel is because it offers the chance to do the opposite. Through travel, this mother raising two Black sons, has encountered people in places around the world that believe - as we do - that humanity requires seeing each other as human beings who are equally worthy of love and respect. Our hearts are with Tyre’s loved ones and the Black people around the world who are re-traumatized by this heinous attack. There is a gofundme for his family and should you feel a need to demonstrate your love - not just for Tyre but for a world that stamps out this kind of inhumanity - a donation might be the way to do it. Even better? Work with your community leaders to effect real change, so that we can all feel as safe in the world as Tyre should have been.

Celebrating Black History Month

February is Black History Month. It’s a time for us to celebrate Black achievement and the perfect opportunity to educate ourselves (possibly via travel)! Here are three easy ways you can make sure you and your family are on the path to learning more this month.

LISTEN: A few years ago, I spoke with some of the Black Historical Interpreters at Colonial Williamsburg for National Geographic. It was eye-opening. If you are in the area, consider scheduling a visit that allows you to hear from these unique voices. Black History Month offerings.

READ: If you’re interested in learning about racism and unconscious bias, consider Emmanuel Acho’s book, Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man. This book is written in a conversational style, while offering you answers to questions you may have been too uncomfortable to ask. If you’re looking to diversify your kids’ reading materials, check out this selection.

VISIT: Looking for places to travel to visit this month that can help you tap into the meaning behind Black History Month? We’ve got you covered. Head over to the GTM blog for ideas.

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February news you can use!

• Valentine’s Day is coming up and Galentine’s day is gaining in popularity, but men who'd rather spend time with some Bros and Brews, should check this out.

• Parents looking for a bit of lunchtime fun in Tofino (especially on Valentine’s Day) might want to travel to Tofino where the “Nooner Shaggin’ Wagon” at Hotel Zed is offering a different Valentine’s Day suggestion.

• Love and Pride combine in Ft. Lauderdale at the inaugural Pride of the Americas Festival hosted by ‘80s icon Boy George!

• It’s Oscar Time! Ish and I loved the Oscar-nominated movie, The Banshees of Inisherin. I’m hoping to check out some of the filming locations on an upcoming trip to Ireland.

• Any White Lotus fans out there? If you’ve fantasized about the hotels since watching Seasons 1 and 2, read this article for tips.

• If you are Canadian, you likely have strong feelings - one way or the other - about Poutine. If they lean towards the LOVE IT side, consider celebrating during La Poutine Week (February 1 to 14)!

Stay Tuned…

Recent travels have taken us to Phoenix, Arizona and out to the British Virgin Islands. Check out our Instagram page for some highlights.

If you enjoyed this newsletter, don’t forget to share it on social media or forward it to a friend! 

And we’d love to hear from you too. Message us on the social media platform of your choice and let us know what travel question we can answer for you!

Instagram: @byheathergd

Facebook: Heather Greenwood Davis

Twitter: @ByHeatherGD

TikTok: @byheathergd

LinkedIn: Heather Greenwood Davis

Website: www.heathergreenwooddavis.com

Blog: GlobetrottingMama

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