An Easy Guide to Getting American Airlines Elite Status—And How to Optimize it Once You Do
A work trip to Egypt in January helped me earn American Airlines AAdvantage Platinum status thanks to a stopover in Dubai and flying oneworld alliance airlines. This post was originally published in April 2024 and updated in August 2025 to reflect recent changes to...
How to Avoid Travel Bank Fees
The easiest way to save money while traveling is having the right kind of bank accounts. Here’s how to avoid ATM fees, foreign transaction fees and dynamic currency conversion when using ATMs and credit cards abroad.
Why American Airlines Elite Status No Longer Makes Sense for Most Travelers
American Airlines recently changed its upgrade system, making elite status harder to justify. This post breaks down what’s changed and whether elite status still makes sense.
I Travel Full-Time. Here’s Seven Things I Always Pack Under $25.
Nonstop travel has made me a packing pro. On my last six-month stint abroad in Japan and Southeast Asia, these seven things under $25 were the most useful.
How a Road-Trip Pit Stop to Pet a Camel Led to an Unlikely Friendship
A spring break detour off I-55 to pet a roadside camel sparked an unexpected, decades-long friendship with her 79-year-old owner. What began as a class photo project turned into one of my most personal travel stories.
What to Pack for the Camino de Santiago: Advice from a Woman Who’s Walked It Twice
I chat with experienced hiker Chris Rufflo who trekked the Camino de Santiago twice about her experience along with a detailed packing list for the Camino de Santiago.
I Used a Saily eSIM for 1 Month in Southeast Asia—Here’s How It Went
On a recent trip to Southeast Asia, I tested Saily’s local and regional eSIM for iPhone for six weeks. Overall, it worked well except for a few glitches in Vietnam. Read for all the details.
11 Things to Do in Hanoi That Are Actually Worth Your Time
Hanoi is a glimpse at the chaos and history of Vietnam. It’s home to the country’s largest airport and the gateway to Ha Long and Lan Ha Bay and Ninh Binh. Here’s the best things to do in Hanoi.
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