see the usa | The Memorable Journey ~ The Affordable Mouse

Unlocking Hidden Travel Gems: The Experts Behind Guided Tours

When your amazing tour guide not only tells you WHY you should watch the sunrise at the Grand Canyon, but also shares where to watch, AND gives you tips for perfect viewing – the result is a true memory of a lifetime!

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know that we are big fans of guided tours – especially for those bucket list destinations that we’ve always dreamed of. Having now experienced 3 very different – and amazing – tours, we are even more convinced that the stress-free nature of guided touring is a fabulous way to spend time exploring new places!

When people ask me about guided touring, one question that often comes up is “What are the guides like? Are they really knowledgeable?”

So, let’s chat about that a bit today. Read more

Create Lasting Memories: Multigenerational Travel in America’s National Parks

Nancy Great US Destinations April 3, 2023March 30, 2023americas national parks, how to visit americas national parks, multi generational travel, multigenerational vacation, see the usa, travel with extended family, travel with grandchildren, travel with grandparents 0 Comment

America is a beautiful country, and from “sea to shining sea” there are so many amazing places to see! From bustling cities to quiet forests, from historical sites to the beauty of nature – the US offers something for every age, and every interest. It’s no wonder then, that American destinations are popular for multigenerational vacations – and I don’t mean just a week at the beach (not that there’s anything wrong with that!).

The US offers hundreds of incredible places that are perfect for families – from grandparents to grandchildren – to explore and you’ll find many of them in America’s national parks.

Here’s why you should consider visiting our national parks with your extended family – and what to think about as you plan your family’s American Adventure. Read more

Exploring America’s National Parks Like a VIP

Nancy Great US Destinations March 6, 2023March 2, 2023benefits of guided tours, best way to see the grand canyon, best way to see the national parks, best way to see the usa, guided tours US, most popular national parks, national parks, see the usa, us guided tours 0 Comment

Sunrise at the Grand Canyon – one of the most breathtaking moments I’ve ever had.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, national parks have continued to be among the most popular vacation destinations in the U.S. In fact, in the most recent listing of the best places to visit in the USA from US News and World Report, Grand Canyon National Park is in the No. 1 spot, followed by Yellowstone National Park, and Yosemite National Park. Among the remaining destinations in the top 10, Glacier National Park ranked 5^th, with Zion National Park #6 and Grand Teton National Park at #9.

And really, it’s no surprise that these American natural treasures are so popular with visitors – from breathtaking glaciers to incredible canyons and mountain ranges, the appeal of the outdoors, easy accessibility, and natural beauty all combine to create some of the most memorable vacation destinations in the United States. Read more

Top 5 Tips for Planning Your Vacation to Hawaii

Nancy Aulani a Disney Resort and Spa, Great US Destinations, Vacations Around the World July 25, 2022July 12, 2022hawaii, hawaii vacation, hawaiian vacation, see the usa, vacation to hawaii visit hawaii, what to do in hawaii, what to see and do in hawaii, where to stay in hawaii 0 Comment

So you’re planning that long-awaited bucket list vacation to Hawaii – how exciting! Once you’ve decided which island(s) you’re visiting, then comes the fun part of planning the rest of your trip. Of course, your travel agent will be happy to guide you, but to start, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Read more

Exploring the “Other” Islands of Hawaii

Nancy Aulani a Disney Resort and Spa, Great US Destinations July 11, 2022July 6, 2022hawaii, hawaii vacation, hawaiian vacation, see the usa, vacation to hawaii, visit hawaii, what to do in hawaii, what to see and do in hawaii, where to stay in hawaii 0 Comment

The 7 inhabited islands (and over 100 smaller uninhabited islets, atolls, and coral reefs that count as “islands”) that we collectively know as Hawaii, provide some of the most beautiful sites in the world. Visitors to this paradise of islands will also find a fascinating history and culture, delicious regional cuisine, and a wide variety of outdoor activities – kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and of course surfing.

And each island is different from the next! While Oahu may be the first place that visitors think of when planning a vacation to Hawaii, many folks find that one (or more) of the other islands may be the perfect Hawaiian vacation destination – especially for those looking for a quieter, more “nature-centered” visit. Read more

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