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Traveling While Reading? Here Are the Best Audio Book Apps to Try.

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I’m a Big Reader. Seriously, whenEVER I find myself sitting still or waiting, I grab my book and read. Anywhere and any kind of waiting. I’m in love with paper books despite their bulky heaviness. That’s just me. So why would I care about the best audio book apps?

Because there are times when I need to lean into technology for reading, like when I’m traveling. Hey, just because I ALWAYS check my bag doesn’t mean it’s heavy. Packing a few paper books can make it heavy, though, so I use an audiobook app when I travel. 

Click here for the headphones I LOVE to use for listening to audiobooks while I’m traveling. 

Without doing any research on the best apps for listening to audiobooks, I started out using Amazon’s Audible app. 

How much is Audible?

I paid a $14.95 monthly subscription fee for a full year. But I don’t travel every month. After a year, I’d paid a whopping grand total of $179.40 for the luxury of being able to download audiobooks for the few trips I took. I think this is like the Gym Membership income model – you continue paying even though you don’t go to the gym. Gym owners love it. Audible and Amazon love it!

Here’s how Audible works. The monthly subscription fee gives you one credit. Each credit allows you to buy one audiobook and credits have to be used within 12-months of issuance. Audible sends an email if any of your credit(s) are expiring in the next 30 days, which makes it much easier to keep track. (I should know because I received that email – proving my point that I don’t ‘read’ with audiobooks unless I’m traveling.)

What could be worse than spending $14.95/month and not using the credit? Having it go away forever. If not for the email warning from Audible, that would have happened to me! Yikes. But that got me wondering if there are other audio book apps like Audible? Apps that are better, or just as good? Well, it turns out there are several! 

Other Audio Book Apps

I don’t know if there is one audiobook app that’s the absolute best for travel. There are some that require a monthly or annual subscription (like Audible,) some let you read completely free, and some are subscription-free but you do pay for the audiobooks.

If you like to listen to audio books even when you’re not traveling, you’ll want to compare subscription costs, audiobook costs, and availability. Why is availability a consideration? Because some audiobook apps are connected and accessed through your local library membership. 

Waitlists!

If waitlists don’t bother you, join your local library and ask about the audiobook apps they’re connected to. Here’s an overview of the most used apps by library systems.

Want to find out about other amazing apps to make your travel smoother, lighter – better? Then check out this post about the best apps for planning travel , or learn about the apps that keep your travel details organized while you’re on your trip here. 

Library Books on Audio

If you have a library card, you might already access audio books, ebooks, movies, music, and magazines online for free. If you don’t have a library card – take a minute and go online to your county library and follow the directions to obtain a free membership. 

I didn’t have one (“WHAT?!” Yep, just got mine recently.) Even though libraries in my county are not physically open due to the Pandemic – I was able to apply in two minutes for an Ereader card online. The next day I received an email with my card number and Pin. 

Next, I learned about the services my library system is hooked up to for audio books apps. They’re popular and shared by most library systems, so read on and then check out your own library system!

  • Hoopla is one way I can access audiobooks and ebooks from my library. This app connects me to my library’s collection for both types of “reading” books, plus a whole lot more. I can use it to watch movies, TV, and listen to music and those are all things I actually do when I travel.
  • Overdrive is another source of audiobooks and ebooks from your public library. You can search for books on their site and then access them via your library. Search for your library on the Overdrive site and use your library card. Or, use the new app Overdrive now offers to make the process mobile – Libby.
  • Libby By OverDrive is a mobile app for Android, iPhone, or iPad. It even gives you the option to download straight to your Kindle. I use the Kindle app on my iPad to cut down on devices but either way works great.

Use the app with your library card, and your public library, to search for book titles. Once you find books to listen to, or read, you can download them immediately or get on the waitlist. Downloaded books will disappear on their due dates so you don’t have to worry about fines.

Like a Library Virtual Assistant!

The app is free and super easy to set up. All you have to do is make sure you have enough books in your queue to last for your trip and read them before the due date. Using one of these apps is like having an extra $180 to spend during your trip compared to a subscription service like Audible!

best-apps-for-listening-to-audiobooks

A Quirky Audio Book App

  • LibriVox is one more free option even if it’s a bit quirky. This app identifies itself as an “acoustical liberation of books in the public domain.” Books in the public domain are not the hot new titles advertised everywhere. But you know what – there are some wonderful books published in the past and this is your chance to listen to one or two. (How about “A Foreign Office Romance,” by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle?) The quirky caveat is the actual people recording the books – they’re all volunteers. It’s potluck on who you’ll be listening to but definitely an adventure. Feel like volunteering yourself? Check out the information on the website and take a look at the Forum there too.

Another Way to Access Books on Audio

Outside of the library, there’s a whole world of books to buy, of course. I’m an On-Demand kind of person – an impulse shopper at my core. Sigh. (Maybe I’ll change my ways now that I have an e-library card?) But is paying for a subscription the only other way?

Not at all, it turns out. There are apps you can use to find and access audiobooks and ebooks without a subscription called pay-as-you-go apps. Meaning you pay for the audiobook in order to read it. A great option for paper book lovers, like me, who only use audiobooks when they’re traveling.

Check out these options.

  • Google Play Books is available as an app for Android or iPhones. No subscription needed to access, you just log in and search for the title you want, purchase and download to listen. You can buy ebooks and audiobooks, but you’ll need to go to the website to purchase and then access your book via the app.

Here’s an example of an audiobook on Google Play Store and the cost is $14.95. Depending on how quickly you read and how long you’ll be traveling, you may want to buy 2 or 3 titles. Looks like that might get expensive. 

best-audio-book-apps-for-travel

 

Titles seem to range from $14.95 upwards to $25.99 for newer release books. There are definitely older titles available there which cost less, though. And one more cool tip about the Google Play Store – you can also rent movies and download to watch on the go!

  • Nook Audiobooks is an app available for Android and iPhone/Apple devices. This is the Barnes & Noble ebook/audiobook app and there is no subscription fee. But like Google Play, you buy the audiobook before downloading to read. Prices for bestsellers and new releases look like they run from $18 and up. For Android users, you can buy audiobooks directly from the app but iOS users need to log into the NookAudiobook.com site to purchase before downloading on the app to listen.
  • Chirp is another free app (Android and iOS devices) that doesn’t offer a subscription service – a ‘pay-as-you-go’ that looks easy and affordable. In fact – I smell a deal! You can access bestsellers on this app and website, but you can also hop on their limited-time deals. When I checked out the deals, there were several newish books at the $1.99 and less price point! There’s even a way to sort books by different deal prices like $6.99 or less, $4.99 or less, etc. The way my brain works – I’m already planning ahead to buy a new release on Google Play Audiobooks, or NookAudiobooks, and then grab two or three bargains on Chirp!

Audiobook Alternatives to Audible

Back to the paid subscription audiobook app model in search of affordable alternatives to Audible. Surprisingly, I did find options and options make me feel like I’m in charge of my own destiny.

Feast your eyes on these options:

  • Scribd is an app (Android and iOS) and a website where you can access audiobooks, along with ebooks, magazines, and articles. At only $9.99/month, it’s a bargain compared to Audible, and the book list is extensive, including new releases. It’s an even bigger bargain when you realize that a $9.99 subscription entitles you to listen to as many audiobooks as you want each month.

Are there restrictions on that? I haven’t personally tried Scribd but I read this on the Premier membership disclosure page here:

How many books can I read each month?

As many as you can! We strive to provide the most comprehensive catalog to all of our members.  We can’t guarantee the immediate availability of any specific title, but our members can always read an unlimited number of books and audiobooks each month. Occasionally, some titles in our library may be temporarily unavailable to you depending on your recent reading activity.

Still seems like a great deal and I’ve had nothing but positive personal recommendations for this app. I’m going to try it out and if you have personal experience please comment below or email me and let me know what you think! (cindi@travelinglater.com)

  • Downpour is a paid subscription app that’s a lot like Audible but for $12.99/month. You get one credit per month and you buy the audiobooks in exchange for a credit. But Downpour has one cool feature – you can rent books. And it costs much less while not taking up digital space.

The reality is you are bound by most app agreements to not share the audiobooks you buy. Plus, if you’re like me – it’s Uber rare that I ever reread a book. Except for Atlas Shrugged every five years, but that’s a different story (book reader pun and dangerously close to a Dad joke.) Rentals are for 30 days, generally, although for longer books (like Atlas Shrugged) they automatically give you a 60-day rental.

Downpour works on Android or iOS devices and if you go the rental route, it looks like you can access those without a subscription. Rentals have to be done on the desktop site and then you will be able to access the audiobook from the app on your mobile device.

  • Audiobooks.com is priced at $14.95/month but the difference between this app and Audible is the monthly subscription will let you access two books. One book will be from the Premium Titles section (new releases) and the other from the VIP section. 

What kind of books are in the VIP section? It’s a curated selection of books that is updated on the first of every month. You will also have access to podcasts (their website states over 1.2million podcasts) and the ability to trade your monthly credit for 30 days of unlimited reading via one of their book clubs.

All in all – if you’re an adventurous reader – this might be a good option to try.

  • Serial Box is something completely different. It’s not a place to buy audiobooks – but it is a place to get hooked on Sci-fi and Fantasy stories that are released, episodically, every week. Or – you have the option of buying the whole “season” and binging reading a la Netflix.

I saw titles for $9.99/season and I saw titles for $1.99/season. If you’re a true Sci-fi or Fantasy fan and also open to exploring new writers, this is a very cool way to entertain yourself on a long, long road trip (or, one day, on a long international flight.)

Check out this post about the travel hack for your iPhone! This tip might take a lot of travel anxiety out of the trip!

Not Interested in Audible Alternatives?

If deep down in your heart of hearts Audible is your favorite, you can still save some money. Choose the annual fee option and get all 12 credits at once. The plan gives you the first year for $119.50 which is equal to about $9.96/month. After the first year the annual fee increases to $149.50 which is $12.46/month. 

Had I chosen the annual subscription plan, I would have saved $59.90 in the first year and another $29.90 in the second year. A $90 savings over two years compared to paying $14.95/month! And yes –  you can buy 24 credits at once (for an annual payment of $229.50.)

Reading keeps me entertained when I’m in transit on a trip, which includes airport lounges, plane rides, and train rides. I can even read in the car! But my go-to is listening to an audiobook. My next challenge is to find and read some great travel books. Or maybe just books about far off places. Have any good suggestions?

 

Safe Travels,

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Best Tips For Your First Ancestry Trip

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Best Tips for Ancestry Trip

Photo by Melissa Berry

True confessions: I’ve fallen headfirst and hard into researching my family tree. If you haven’t done it – word of warning – it’s a deep, dark rabbit hole. My plan, once I’ve researched enough, is to take an ancestry trip to explore my family tree – one branch at a time.

Then I talked to my dear friend, Melissa Berry of the Everyday Spokane blog, about her first ancestry trip and the plans for her second. I immediately asked for all her tips on how to plan my own heritage journey.

If you want to take your own Ancestry trip – read on and then execute, People!

You’ve probably seen the commercials: happy families with percentages over their heads, getting together for the holidays. Or a single woman, visiting all sorts of unique and interesting locations, from frozen wonderlands to tropical beaches. Each of the commercials ends the same way: encouraging you to sign up for a genealogy program, like 23AndMe or Ancestry, to learn more about your heritage. 

Whether you sign up for a program to learn more about your specific genealogical history or you decide to take an ancestry trip given the family history you have, there are a few things you’ll want to do before heading out. Chances are your trip will be long and may include a flight over an ocean, so make sure to read up on Cindi’s awesome post on the best travel carry-on essentials for long flights and her best tools for travel planning in order to get good deals and plan your trip. 

Once you’ve planned your trip as best as you can (best to plan a little loosely, in case you find out something really interesting in one city and want to stay longer), it’s time to prepare for your first ancestry trip!

Taking My First Ancestry Trip

I have to say, when I went on my first ancestry trip, I was unnecessarily cocky. This was pre-23AndMe and pre-DNA-Ancestry info. I had done some genealogical work on Ancestry.com, made sure to ask my grandmother all of the information she could recall on her family, and basically figured that was enough.

I figured I would show up in Ireland, easily find our records based on the information gathered, and bring back a goldmine of information I could show off to my completely-not-interested-in-genealogy family.

Ancestry Trip to Ireland

Photo by Melissa Berry

I’m sure you see where this is going – it didn’t turn out that way at all. When I and my cousin (who’d come along to learn more about this side of her family, too) reached Cork, Ireland and began looking in the library records, we were immediately stymied. What I hadn’t known was how… creative… people could get with spelling names. Plus, all of the men for some reason shared the same first name and, apparently, everyone had the same occupation (or so it seemed).

At one of the church libraries we were working in, a kindly priest tried to make me feel better by telling me some of the records had been destroyed in a fire. “In the 1860s?” I asked. “Sure,” he replied – but I’m pretty sure he was lying to make me feel better.

Preparing for and Getting the Most Out of Your First Ancestry Trip

After drowning my sorrows in some Guinness and encouraging my cousin to go after some cute Irish guys (her response: “no – they’re probably related to us!”), I realized we could have been more successful if we had taken a few key steps before we got to Ireland.

First, realize that not every ancestry trip is the same.

If your family kept very good records, or is a recent arrival and still has living family abroad, the trip should be a lot more successful for you. The further away you are from living relatives from ‘the old country’, the harder it will be. But just because we struggled finding our relatives (only 4 generations away – not as far as some!) doesn’t mean you will!

While ancestry trips are different for everyone, use these tips for getting the most out of your ancestry trip:

  1. Do some research before you go. Which side of your family came from this country? What do you know about them? Do you know the region from which they came? If you know, start by planning your trip there. Some countries are very big, and being able to narrow it down will help shape your itinerary.

When I took my first ancestry trip, I hadn’t yet taken an Ancestry.com DNA test. While the results didn’t surprise me, since I’ve taken it, I’ve been connected to more people who’ve done serious research on my family tree. I’ve even connected to someone around my age who lives in England (and is related to that side of my family!).

If you can, before you go, take a DNA test, do some research within your own family and whatever records you can find online, and get to know as much as you can about where you’re visiting. If you really want to research your history, this prep work will be invaluable – and may connect you with a living, breathing relative!

  1. Attend events, places, museums, hikes and more from the area where your family is from. We did some hiking, museum-touring, and bed and breakfast stays around Ireland because we really wanted to get to know and experience it. Visit churches, libraries – any place that may have more information about your family can be informative. You may find information you never would get from an online search!
Hike and Explore On Your Ancestry Trip

Photo by Melissa Berry

Not only is it just a great idea to get out and do things when you travel, but you may also learn more things about your family history while out. Most of our (limited) success came from visiting churches, but even the museums gave us an interesting backstory of what was going on when our ancestors lived there. Museums gave us a background and hiking around the countryside made us feel we were connected to our family, as they may have walked those same or similar trails. 

  1. Live like a local. As much as possible, try to get into the culture while on your ancestry trip. We visited Ireland for a little over a week, and we toured the whole island. We rented a car and stayed at bed and breakfasts along the way, so we could take our time, talk to locals, and feel like part of the community. There’s nothing like driving on tiny roads in the middle of Ireland, trying to get to a museum before it closes, only to be waylaid by sheep!

For me, it felt like a homecoming. I looked like I fit in while in Ireland – not particularly tall, curly, reddish-brown hair. People didn’t treat me like an American ‘outsider’ when I was in Ireland, because I didn’t really stand out from the crowd.

This was not my cousin’s experience (taller, darker-haired) and it may not be yours either – but that’s okay! Depending on your genealogical history, the first ancestry trip you take might not feel like a homecoming. None of your trips may feel like a homecoming – and all of that is okay too. But keep an open mind, because you never know what you may learn or experience while taking an ancestry tip – and it might surprise you.

Best Tips for Planning Ancestry Trip

Photo by Melissa Berry

Planning My Second Ancestry Trip

Needless to say, I’m planning my second ancestry trip (for my Dad’s side) but taking my own advice this time. For this trip, I’m very glad I took a DNA test, because where we thought my Dad’s family was from (Germany) is not… it turns out, he’s mostly Scottish. A surprise to everyone (including my family’s last name, which is a top 10 common German name). So it’s off to Scotland for me next – not Germany!

However, I learned my lesson in a variety of ways, and this trip will be significantly different because of three key factors:

    1. Planning ahead – I’ve done much more research on this side of the family, and have planned my trip accordingly. I’ve researched where I want to go, roughly where I want to stay, and the museums I’d like to visit.
    2. Not being disappointed by what I do or don’t find. I’m not expecting to find any traces of my Dad’s side in Scotland – first of all, our family name isn’t Scottish, and I don’t know where I’d start. But you never know what you may find – from research, I discovered there was a war in Scotland around the time we think my ancestors fled to Germany. Could this be the reason we’re ‘German’? Maybe – but I’d like to go to Scotland and learn more about this time period to learn more.
    3. Realizing that ancestry is more than just ‘where you’re from’ – For some people, it can be easy to get discouraged and feel down about a country (or travel in general) if things you planned didn’t go right. This can feel even heavier if it’s an ancestry trip and nothing is going right.

There’s a chance you plan an ancestry trip to France because you’re 45% French, but you get there and absolutely hate it. Maybe you have 5% Spanish, so you head there and feel like you totally fit in and fall in love with the country. 

All of that is okay! It’s about what you want to get out of it and adjusting your expectations. If I had gone to Germany expecting to fit in, but felt very out of place, I might feel like something was wrong with me. But don’t forget: if you’re reading Traveling Later, chances are you’re traveling because you love to travel. 

Travel and affinity for other cultures aren’t dictated by your DNA – imagine how boring life would be if we only traveled to places ‘where we were from’ – I’d never love Morrocco if that were the case! 

Ancestry travel can be amazing, life-changing, and connect you to your heritage in ways you never dreamed. It also may be disappointing, sad, or make you feel out of place. I recommend everyone who’s interested take an ancestry trip, but (as with most travel advice) be realistic and roll with what you find!

Are you planning an ancestry trip? Where would you go?

 

Melissa Berry is a travel blogger at Everyday Spokane, a local travel blog for people relocating to and living in the Inland Northwest. When she’s not planning trips, she works as a freelance editor and website consultant. You can read more of her work at Everyday Spokane.

 

Ten Best Destinations for Your Next Girls Trip

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ten-best-destinations-for-girls-trip

 

In the back of my mind, I’m constantly designing the best girls trip EVER. Like in the history of girls’ trips. 

First question – how many girls should go on the trip? There’s no perfect answer because your posse probably isn’t the size of my posse. And maybe the whole posse isn’t going?

An even bigger question is what’s the best destination? Again – no single answer. But if there isn’t a generic plan – or place – for the best girls trip – how do you plan it and where do you go?

How Do You Pick the Best Destination for Your Trip?

Well, you gotta know your girls and plan accordingly. Start with what they like to do. Hiking? Beach? Shopping? Zip-lining? Sightseeing? Ski Poles? Even if there’s more than one answer it helps whittle down the options.

Next qualifying question: How long of a hall-pass can you all get (AKA a get-out-of-jail-free card)? Does it need to be a girls’ weekend trip? Are we talkin’ a girls vacation? You have to work with what’s written on the hall-pass.

Ok! This is getting exciting! You and your BFF’s, who like to do similar things (whatever those have been sorted out to be), are now ready to pick the destination for your weekend/vacation girls trip to… 

Where are you going?

No worries!! I’ve asked ten amazing travel bloggers what their top picks are for the best destination for a girls’ trip. Read on for a diverse mix of beaches, mountains, and city scenes. All you have to do is choose one. Here they are in no particular order: 

SAMOA!

Beach-in-Samoa-for-girls-trip

Photo by Christy Dunn

From Christy Dunn @ https://www.planestrainsandmonorails.com/

For the ultimate once-in-a-lifetime girls’ getaway, head to the beautiful island nation of Samoa.  This tropical paradise in the South Pacific offers the perfect combination of breathtaking views, delicious food, warm weather, and a welcoming environment.  Whether you and your friends are looking to relax on the beach or tackle an adventure, Samoa has you covered. The people here will make you feel right at home.  And, it has lower prices and fewer crowds than some of its more famous neighbors. 

Taumeasina Island Resort is the place to stay if you want relaxation, luxury, and convenience.  It has spectacular views in every direction and is only a five-minute cab ride to the heart of the capital city of Apia.  Another great option for lodging close to the action is the Sheraton Aggie Grey in downtown Apia. If you would prefer an all-inclusive resort, I recommend the Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort near the airport.  

Your trip to Samoa is not complete without a meal at Paddles.  This small restaurant offers scrumptious Italian food in a laid-back island environment.  Your stomach and your girlfriends will be thanking you for this one!  

During your trip, take a little time to shop in the various markets in Apia.  You will find tons of Samoan handicrafts. For a little adventure, rent a car and drive to To Sua Ocean Trench.  This amazing swimming hole is about 100 feet below ground and is connected to the ocean by underwater tunnels.         

Christy is a wife, mom, and attorney who’d rather be traveling than in a courtroom! She learned a lot about traveling the last fifteen+ years with her husband. She believes traveling is the best way to teach children about the world and her son started traveling at two years old. Her favorite destinations are Disney World, sporting events, and the South Pacific. Follow her on Pinterest.

 

CANCUN!

Cancun-beach-for-girls-trip

Photo by Christine Zelina

From Christina Zelina @ https://treasuredfamilytravels.com/

Sun, sand, and food!  That was what my BFF and I were looking for when we planned a long girlfriend weekend getaway. Cancun fit the bill on all accounts.

Countless all-inclusive resorts abound tempting you with unlimited food, drink, and activities. There is no need to go outside the resort area unless you want to.  In fact, we did more onsite group activities than I have ever done with my family.

Salsa dancing lessons, Spanish cooking demonstrations, mixology classes, and an introductory scuba lesson kept us busy when weren’t eating, sleeping or sunning.

Venture out one night to Coco Bongo – a party club located within Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Seriously, you need to see this place! Flying acrobats, loud music and so much going on you don’t know where to look.

Consider booking a package deal that includes airfare and airport transfers. Many cities have charter airlines with non-stop flights which I highly recommend. Where else can you get so much for your money and not have to worry about anything once you get there?

 If you’re looking for a tropical and inexpensive girlfriend getaway, do your research on Cancun. The white sand and beautiful blue water will literally melt away any stress you came with. And, you may even learn a new recipe to take home!

Christine, the founder of the family travel blog Treasured Family Travels, writes about her families world travels using miles and points. She’s a huge Disney fanatic and devotes a  section of her website to all things Disney. Follow her on Pinterest.

 

TUSCAN COAST, ITALY!

The-Tuscan-Coast-for-girls-trip

Photo by Katy Thomas

From Katy Thomas @ https://katyinumbria.com/

A weekend catching up with girlfriends on the Tuscan coast while getting a tan and sipping local white wine? Pretty close to perfect.

Starting from Perugia, in a small car, take the slower, windier roads to Talamone. Pit stops included: San Casciano Dei Bagni, a wealthy spa town, great for a quick panino and a stroll. Pitigliano, perfect for an afternoon gelato. Get ready to take lots of photos and stock up on their famous local white wine for pre-dinner drinks. And finally Le Terme di Saturnia, free hot springs with healing mineral waters that have created gentle waterfalls and pools, my favorite so far. 

Activities: snorkeling off the rocks of Talamone, driving to the nature reserve for walks and naps on the long sandy spit, and late-night shopping sprees in Orbetello. Looking for a bit more adventure? Take a ferry to one of the islands, like Elba. 

Food: keep it Italian! Breakfasts of pastries and cappuccinos. Light lunches with local prosciutto and melon or tomatoes and mozzarella. Dinner? My favorite restaurant in the area is Agriturismo Buratta for their wild boar ragu, red wine, and pickled onions. Perfect after a day exploring the coast of Tuscany’s Maremma. And be sure to try what this region is known for, Tortelli. Large square pasta stuffed with spinach and ricotta.

The salty Mediterranean sea and the warm Italian sun help with the relaxing, the wine is for chatting. Because what summer is complete without a road trip with your friends to the beach?

Katy is from the West Coast of Canada. She studied violin making in England, lived in Toronto, Canada for a time, and now lives in Perugia, Italy since 2014. She runs a business making and restoring violins with her Italian husband, and spends her spare time exploring every inch of Central Italy and sharing it all on her blog. Follow her on Pinterest. 

 

CHICAGO!

Pano-ariel-of-Chicago-on-girls-trip

Photo by Catherine Brady

From Catherine Brady @  https://travelingwiththelittles.com/

For a girlfriend weekend getaway to Chicago, there are endless possibilities of things to do! I’m not a martini drinking, clubbing, spa type of gal, so this itinerary is somewhat laidback.  BUT, if you are into clubs, bars, and spas, Chicago has no shortage. 

The first order of business is your hotel.  I’d stay at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, on Wacker Drive, located right on the Chicago River.  It’s affordable, has excellent views, and is smack in the middle of all the action. The Hyatt boasts three restaurants on-site if you’d like to eat at the hotel.   They also have the BIG Bar and a café/snack shop that’s open 24/7.  

Friday night grab pizza at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria.  Everyone has an opinion about which Chicago pizza is the best and most authentic, and Lou Malnati’s takes the cake! After pizza, grab a drink at the Signature Lounge on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Building. It’s free to get up there (except for the $13 mojito you’ll pay for) and has some of the best views of the city.  The best view is from the ladies room, so be sure to check that out!

Saturday grab breakfast at the hotel or on the go and get after the day.  First, take the architectural tour down the Chicago River. I’m not into architecture, per se, but this is probably the best tour in Chicago.  Grab lunch at Eataly Chicago, and then go shopping down Michigan Avenue on the Magnificent Mile. For dinner, I’d recommend the Dearborn.  

If you have time to kill in the evenings, you can catch a play at one of Chicago’s many theaters, or take a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan.  Alternatively, you can catch a free concert in Millennium Park or at the beer garden at the end of Navy Pier. 

Sunday morning hit up the Nutella Café for some confections and a bit of indulgence.

Catherine is an attorney – turned Travel Writer. She started travelingwiththelittles.com as a resource for parents who love the idea of traveling post-children but are apprehensive about traveling as a family.  Her goal is to make family travel more manageable and to take the anxiety out of traveling with children!  Follow her on Pinterest.

 

MADISON, WISCONSIN!

Girls-trip-to-Madison-Capital-Square-Wisconsin

Photo by Sue Reddel

From Sue Reddel @ https://foodtravelist.com 

Madison, Wisconsin is a unique capital city on an isthmus surrounded by two beautiful lakes. Enjoy water views, beautiful sunsets and amenities like a serene spa and wellness center at the boutique Edgewater Hotel. 

April through October visit the Dane County Farmers Market, the largest producers-only market in the country, where vendors fill Capitol Square on Saturday mornings. Then go inside the historic capitol building and explore its breathtaking historic interior.

Stroll the beautiful Olbrich Botanical Gardens free every day or choose from many biking and hiking trails. In summer you can go kayaking, SUP or canoeing. Winter offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.

Ready to eat? Try farm-fresh fine dining at L’Etoile or a creamy frozen custard at Michael’s. Downtown food carts offer great ethnic eats and local gems serve unique authentic food like Indian, Korean, Laotian, Ethiopian and more. Breakfast and brunch get serious attention at spots like Short Stack Eatery and Marigold Kitchen. Don’t miss Wisconsin’s famed supper clubs like Toby’s or the Tornado Room for an Old Fashioned cocktail or a hearty meal. Lombardino’s has excellent wood-fired pizza and a hefty wine list.

Try ciders and get some tasty noshes at the Cider Farm Taproom at Brennan’s Cellars for fun. Like beer? Madison’s thriving craft brewery scene offers many options like lively Vintage Brewing.

One thing’s for certain – if you come to Madison once you will return because you won’t be able to do, see and eat it all in just one-weekend visit.

Sue has a great post with even more information and tips about Marvelous Madison here on her blog. Follow her on Pinterest.

 

NEW ORLEANS!

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Photo by Kara @Destination Live Life

From Kara @ https://destinationlivelife.com/

If you’re looking for a girlfriend weekend getaway that can include both history AND debauchery, then look no further than New Orleans, Louisiana! A well-known destination for all things culinary, spooky, and raucous, you’re sure to have one heck of a time.

When the sun is up, spend your days exploring the rich architecture in the French Quarter. You can admire the buildings you pass and do some shopping in the many boutiques! I also can’t recommend an afternoon/early evening cooking class enough. It’s a great introduction to New Orleans creole where you can prepare (and then inhale) famous NOLA dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, or pecan pralines. 

When the sun goes down, the city really comes alive (OR dead). Taking one of the city’s many spooky haunted tours will give you chills for days. And discovering all the famous Bourbon Street has to offer may give you a hangover for days. Head over to karaoke at Catz and hit the high notes with your ladies to Beyonce’s “Single Ladies.” 

Luckily, I also have just the ticket to help cure that hangover! Head on over to Tableau in the French Quarter for a little jazz brunch. The food is amazing, they have bottomless mimosas (a little hair of the dog never hurt), and a cute little jazz trio who will serenade you with the likes of Bruno Mars and Metallica on their brass instruments.

Kara is a current full-time world traveler and the writer, editor, and publisher behind the travel blog Destination: Live Life. She loves live music, travel (duh!), animals, and a great cocktail. Keep up with her adventures on the blog, or photographically on her Instagram.

 

CANMORE, CANADA!

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From Natasha Alden @ https://theworldpursuit.com/

The small mountain town of Canmore is the perfect place to have a girls weekend outside. Canmore is just outside of Banff National Park and is easily one of the most beautiful places in the world. 

It’s Nestled in the Canadian Rockies meaning there are tons of things to do for the gals to enjoy.  My girlfriends and I wanted to do some hiking, and there are literally hundreds, if not thousands, of hiking trails around. Trails range from easy walks in the woods to hard scrambles up a mountain. Once you’re on top of the mountains you are rewarded with amazing views and the feeling of being on top of the world. Some great hikes in Canmore are East End of Rundle, Grassi Lakes, and Tent Ridge.

If you don’t want to sweat it out in the mountains Canmore has a great downtown area. There are tons of bars and restaurants, and yoga studios in case you girls want to stretch it out. The downtown area is surrounded by mountains on every side so you’re always getting a view no matter which way you look. 

If you happen to be visiting Canmore in the winter you will be in heaven. There are four ski resorts within an hour of Canmore and plenty of backcountry access if you want a more extreme adventure. Canmore is well worth spending a weekend away with your girlfriends. You may never leave (I moved here after visiting!).

Natasha writes her travel blog with Cameron Seagle, where they share their experiences, photography, and informative travel guides. They love off the beaten path destinations and hope to inspire other independent travelers and provide the resources to do so. You can read more about things to do in Canmore on the blog, and follow her on Instagram. 

 

NASHVILLE!

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Photo by Ashley Hubbard

From Ashley Hubbard @ https://wild-hearted.com/

Nashville is the perfect weekend getaway for girlfriends no matter what you’re interested in doing while here. We’ve randomly and fiercely become known as being a hot spot for bachelorette parties due to our lively downtown scene, but the fun doesn’t stop there. 

Nashville has plenty of boutique and one-of-a-kind shopping, enough delicious brunch spots to fill an entire year’s worth of brunch, beautiful outdoor activities to burn off the brunch calories, and amazing local coffee shops to catch up with your girlfriends. Check out a show at the historic Ryman Auditorium, find something completely unique at the Nashville Flea Market, find your inner hipster walking through the East Nashville neighborhood, go for drinks and bowling at Pinewood Social, try to find all 200+ murals in the city, take a hike at Radnor Lake or Percy Warner Park, or head a little bit South to Franklin and visit Arrington Vineyards. Take a picnic and soak up the fresh country air while enjoying wine and live music.

Hotels can get pricey in Nashville but there is still some affordable unique accommodation in Nashville that is perfect for a weekend with your girlfriends in Nashville. 

Ashley is a freelance writer, photographer, vegan travel blogger, animal, environmental and social justice warrior, scuba diver, and adventure junkie from and living in Nashville, Tennessee. You can follow her on Instagram. 

 

CURACAO!

Girls-trip-to-Curacao

Photo by Acquania Escarne @ Purpose of Money

From Acquania Escarne @ https://thepurposeofmoney.com/

One of my favorite girl’s trips was to Curacao. A country full of vibrant colors and colonial architecture – a piece of the Netherlands without the cold. Perfect for relaxing, good food, and enjoying Caribbean culture year-round (the islands’ location shields it from most storms and hurricanes.)

We stayed in the center of Willemstad at Renaissance Curacao Resort & Casino, near shops, restaurants, and a movie theatre. Perfect because one night we saw Girls Trip on our girls trip! The hotels’ amazing infinity pool overlooks the beach but didn’t have the most direct beach access. 

One day, we drove our rental car to Karakter, a beach, lounge, and restaurant with amazing Caribbean food and cocktails. We also checked out the Hato Caves, Kura Hulanda Museum, and local markets. The highlight was driving to the furthest part of the island, and hitting every major beach on the way back. We explored the big beach resorts and small tucked-away places. It was fun and filled with great music along the way.

I highly recommend you venture to Curacao if you are seeking Caribbean vibes, warm weather, and good food. It can be affordable or pricey depending on your level of lux – our trip fell in the medium price range. Good to know: Official currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, but the US dollar is readily accepted. And locals speak both English and Dutch and Papiamento–a local dialect. 

Acquania is a financial coach, freelance blogger, and public speaker who helps people find financial freedom and build generational wealth. She plans and saves for her travels with family and friends. Follow her on Instagram.  

 

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK/BAR HARBOR, MAINE!

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Photo by Kasia Lee

From Kaisa Lee @ https://www.glamgranolatravel.com/

Once a year, my best gal pals from college and I get together. We always have a great time, but this year we went to Acadia National Park and had an amazing time. 

When I say Acadia National Park, I technically mean the charming Maine seaside town of Bar Harbor. We stayed at the High Seas Motel, which was equidistant from the National Park and restaurants and shops in downtown Bar Harbor. 

It was also extremely reasonably priced, which was great as we’re all ballin’ on a budget. You could also camp in the park, but be warned—Maine’s weather can be fickle even on the nicest of summer days. We discovered this the hard way, stuck in the middle of a downpour exploring tide pools a mile away from our vehicle! 

As for activities in the National Park, I strongly recommend driving the road, stopping for picnics and overlooks, and picking a couple of hikes. The Beehive was our absolute favorite. Without giving too much away, it’s short but steep, and there are metal bars to help you climb a mountain. The views of Acadia’s surrounding forests and ocean are, of course, as breathtaking as the (mildly terrifying) hike up. Believe me, this hike makes for some badass selfies. 

Acadia even has a beach, if you’re brave enough for a post-hike dip in the Atlantic!

You can also experience nature at sea with Bar Harbor Whale Watch! They offer different themed boat trips depending on the time of year. 

Follow that up with a little tasting sesh at the local winery (hello, sweet Maine blueberry wine) and a bowl of chowder at the Thirsty Whale Tavern. We couldn’t spend a weekend in New England without getting some chowder! 

Between the winery, quirky local shops, and stunning hikes, Bar Harbor and Acadia make for a pretty perfect girl’s trip.

Kaisa is a Colorado-based budget outdoor adventure blogger, who loves National Parks and craft beer. Follow her on Instagram.

 

There you have it!

Pick one or pick them all! Line up your trips for the next few years because no one thing puts more fuel back in your tank than spending time with your Girls. Love them, please!! But…in case you need it, here’s an article that might be required reading for the group before your trip.

Safe Travels,

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PS. Ok, Ok, maybe you should read this one too, depending on your destination of choice! And this one – perfect for Group travel planning and organizing!