Author Profile: Valerie Hansen

Rome — the Eternal City, where history greets you at every corner… along with several thousand other tourists. Don't let that detour you from putting Rome on your next Italy itinerary! Here’s how we managed to see Rome’s greatest icons without feeling like we were stuck in an endless game of tourist traps — and how you can do the...   view more

Welcome to one of the Lower Mainland's best getaways: Coquitlam, British Columbia. This beautiful city is a bustling urban getaway 40 minutes from downtown Vancouver. I grew up in the area, and spent a few years in Coquitlam. It was an amazing adventure to revisit childhood...   view more

Lisbon is Portugal’s bustling capital, and beautiful Cascais is the little sister. The song " Almost Paradise " describes my thoughts exactly about visitng Cascais. However "almost" is not an accurate description- it is paradise. This charming seaside town is the perfect blend of old-world elegance and laid-back coastal fun. If you have three days in Cascais, here’s how to make the most of...   view more

Paris, the City of Light, is timeless, charming, and endlessly entertaining. If you’re planning a three-day mother-daughter trip to Paris, get ready for a whirlwind of shopping, dining, and unforgettable experiences. This guide will help you make the most of your Parisian...   view more

If you’re based in Albufeira and itching to explore beyond Portugal’s borders, Seville, Spain’s sun-kissed gem, makes for a perfect day trip. With its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and delicious...   view more

Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-drenched capital, is a solo traveler’s paradise. With its cobblestone streets, stunning vistas, and rich history this city effortlessly combines the charm of old Europe with a modern, laid-back...   view more

Are you looking for the best places to shop in Las Vegas? Look no further! I'm sharing expert tips in this local's guide for shopping high end to low. Las Vegas is famous for entertainment, amazing hotel-casino stays and sports. (not as much for shopping.) However it is actually a fabulous destination to shop til ya drop! Where are the best places to go shopping in Las Vegas? I've got you covered to shop for every...   view more

Today I invite you to a tour through Lake Geneva. Spring fed and crystal clear. Geneva Lake is gorgeous in any season. This beautiful town has plenty of options for fun experiences! It did not take long to fall in love with this spot! The options for activities are endless, so I've rounded up my...   view more

Are you looking for the best things to do in Seattle in the spring? This expert local's guide features well known spots, and hidden gems you can't...   view more

Travel with me virtually across the Atlantic to Venice Italy. This charming city on a lagoon, could take days to explore. You might ask " Is one day enough for Venice?" It most certainly is! I was bummed I only had 8 hours, nonetheless it was the most wonderful...   view more

Madrid will be the perfect city for your next girl's holiday in Spain. Less known than Barcelona, the capital of Spain will make your holiday unforgettable and you will offer you things to do to have fun and make the most of your stay. Discover in this post the best tips to make your stay in Madrid a success. We'll give you the best places to eat, shop, relax in a spa or go out to...   view more

Costa Mesa is a fascinating city in California, and perfect for a girl's trip . We visited on a Mother/Daughter Trip. This Orange County gem is centrally located between Los Angeles and San...   view more

In the past, Tacoma was never considered a touristy place. It's always had a reputation as a smelly industrial city with lots of crime. The city has undergone a huge face lift in recent years. "Destiny City" has done a complete turn around, and is now a GO TO Northwest destination. Move over...   view more

Buongiorno everyone! I just returned from an amazing trip to Italy. I was not supposed to go solo, but that is how it worked out. A friend and I planned it together, and at last minute she could not make the trip. No one from my family could swing the cost on short notice either. I decided to put on my big girl pants and be brave. I'm not gonna lie, I was very scared and almost backed out. I 'm so glad I made the choice to go! Hang on to your seat, as I take you on a whirlwind tour of the...   view more

Calgary is a beautiful prairie city, located an hour from the Canadian Rockies. It's a destination fueled by natural wonders and resources. I've had many opportunities to visit, and still haven't covered everything there is to do. Join me to explore the city of Calgary Alberta: 1 City-5 Ways. It's ranked #4 on The Economist's latest "Quality of Life Index" of 140 cities- the highest in North...   view more

Woodinville WA is a Seattle area gem, nestled in the Sammamish Valley on the Eastside. It's outrageous I've never visited here before. A few weeks ago we were invited to partner with the Willows Lodge and TeatroZinZanni to bring you a fabulous weekend...   view more