From Homepage to the World!
I’m Liz, a travel expert who has been to more than 90 countries. That’s a lot of traveling! Most of my trips have been with my husband, Gary, and our two sons. We love to wander, hike, adventure, EAT, swim and relax. Although I’m now based in Laguna Beach, California, I have lived and worked in 13 different countries, and have traveled the world. I have my favorites, for sure, but have found that even the worst situations become the best stories and memories (especially the time I got locked in the Great Pyramid on Giza when the lights went out). Enjoy this site! Move beyond the Homepage. Maybe it will inspire you to travel the world, too.
Travel Posts from Recent Trips
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3-Day Boston Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Visiting Boston for the first time? This 3-day Boston itinerary covers historic landmarks, walkable neighborhoods, classic food stops, and waterfront views—an easy, well-paced plan for seeing the city’s highlights.
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Best Time to Visit Boston: A Month-by-Month Guide
Wondering about the best time to visit Boston? This month-by-month guide breaks down weather, crowds, and seasonal highlights to help you plan the perfect trip.
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What to Eat in Boston: Classic Dishes You Shouldn’t Miss
Wondering what to eat in Boston on your first visit? From New England clam chowder and lobster rolls to cannoli in the North End and classic Fenway Franks, these iconic dishes offer a delicious way to experience the city’s history and culture.
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Where to Stay in Boston for First-Time Visitors
Choosing where to stay in Boston for first-time visitors can make or break your trip. This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods to stay in Boston based on walkability, top attractions, and ease of getting around, so you can focus on enjoying the city instead of navigating it.
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Where to Stay in Boston
Wondering where to stay in Boston? This guide breaks down the best neighborhoods for first-time visitors, families, food lovers, and couples—plus top hotel picks in each area to help you find the perfect place to stay.
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The Ultimate Boston Travel Guide
Planning a trip to Boston? This ultimate Boston travel guide covers the city’s top sights, where to stay, how to get around, and the best things to do—perfect for first-time visitors looking to make the most of their time in one of America’s most historic cities.
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10 Affordable Travel Destinations for 2026
Dreaming of an international trip in 2025 that feels luxurious without the price tag? These 10 destinations offer world-class experiences at budget-friendly prices.
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Airport Travel Hacks: 35+ Tips to Fly Smarter (and Stress Less)
Ready to skip lines, breeze through security, and actually enjoy airports? These airport travel hacks cover packing, check-in, lounges, family tips, and smart gear—plus when Priority Pass is worth it and the exact products that make every connection easier.
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A Stroll Through Beacon Hill Park: Victoria’s Oasis by the Sea
Just steps from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, Beacon Hill Park offers peaceful trails, family fun, and ocean views. See why this walkable gem belongs on your itinerary—especially before or after hiking the West Coast Trail.
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Victoria to West Coast Trailhead
Planning your West Coast Trail adventure? Getting from Victoria to the trailhead—whether Gordon River or Pachena Bay—is easier than you might think. In this guide, I share exactly how we navigated the logistics without a car, using the West Coast Trail Express. From pre-hike prep in Victoria to post-hike relaxation, every step ran like clockwork.
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Where to Stay in Victoria Without a Car: Hotels Near Everything
Looking for where to stay in Victoria BC without a car? This guide covers walkable hotels for every budget—plus my personal stay at the Marriott before hiking the West Coast Trail.
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What to Do in Victoria Before the West Coast Trail
Before hitting the rugged terrain of the West Coast Trail, take time to enjoy Victoria’s charm. This one-day walking guide covers everything from gear shops to stunning ocean views.
About Me
My name is Liz and I am the owner and author of Suitcase & Sunglasses. I caught the travel bug when I was a young girl moving around the world with my parents who were international educators. After college and graduate school, I took off for my first job in Egypt. 13 jobs, 2 kids, 1 husband, 1 dog and 92 countries later, I’m still traveling the world! I am based in Southern California, but spend much of my time traveling, wandering, exploring and immersing myself in cultures all over the world. Read more about my journey by clicking here.
