Pigeon Forge is what happens when the Smoky Mountains decide they want to party! After the peaceful beauty of Gatlinburg, I found myself in a wonderfully over-the-top world of giant buildings, mini golf, wax museums, dinosaurs, dinner theaters, and enough attractions to keep a family entertained for days. My favorite stop was The Island and its giant Ferris wheel, where cloudy skies made the Smoky Mountains look absolutely magical from above. And, of course, no Tennessee road trip would be complete without a stop at Buc-ee’s to visit everyone’s favorite beaver and his flavored nuts!
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Dolly, Dreams & a Whole Lot of Tennessee Magic: A Day at Dollywood
I went to Dollywood expecting roller coasters and left thinking about the extraordinary power of one person to change the world. From incredible live music and the Dolly Experience to gorgeous mountain scenery, a historic steam train, delicious food, and a truly impressive commitment to the Smoky Mountain community, Dollywood completely won me over. I even survived the giant faux jar of mayonnaise—which, if you know me, is saying something! Come along for a day of Dolly, dreams, music, and a whole lot of Tennessee magic.
Chasing Waterfalls and Conquering My Fears: A Day on Lookout Mountain
Day three of my Tennessee road trip took me high above Chattanooga to the unforgettable wonders of Lookout Mountain. From exploring the underground beauty of Ruby Falls and wandering the whimsical trails of Rock City to facing my fear of the heart-pounding Incline Railway, every stop offered breathtaking views, fascinating history, and a deeper appreciation for the people who once called this mountain home. It was a day filled with adventure, reflection, and just enough adrenaline to keep me talking about it long after the ride was over.
Rain, Reading Rooms, and Oysters: A Perfectly Cozy Day in Carmel-by-the-Sea
There are some places where rain ruins your plans. And then there’s Carmel-by-the-Sea — where rain somehow makes everything feel even more magical. My day began with one undeniable truth: absolutely no coastal storm is going to stop Californians from getting their fresh produce. The local farmer’s market was alive with bundled-up shoppers carrying flowers,Continue reading “Rain, Reading Rooms, and Oysters: A Perfectly Cozy Day in Carmel-by-the-Sea”
Snickers, Storm Clouds, and the Madness of Bixby Bridge: Driving Big Sur to Carmel-by-the-Sea
There are road trips… and then there are California Highway 1 road trips.
Today was the kind of day that reminds me why I love traveling solo. No schedule. No pressure. Just me, the open road, and two complimentary Snickers bars.
From Fuji Sunrises to Tokyo Nights: A Day of Magic, Chaos & Oysters
Mt. Fuji at sunrise. A shrine wedding straight out of a romance drama. Shibuya Crossing madness. Sushi, souvenirs, palace guards, and the world’s most devastating ice-cream rejection. Oh—and oysters worth writing home about. This day in Tokyo had EVERYTHING. Come see how it all unfolded!
Kyoto to Mt. Fuji — The Long Road to Japan’s Iconic Peak
From Kyoto’s quiet charm to Mt. Fuji’s breathtaking beauty, this road trip was pure magic—complete with mountain views, crimson maples, and a 7-Eleven so good it made me question everything I thought I knew about convenience store food.
Day 2 in Kyoto: Golden Dreams, Whispering Floors & Endless Orange Arches
Day 2 reminded me that Kyoto isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience, one that stays with you long after you’ve left.
Jet Lag, Joy, and Japanese Toilets — a Love Story of Sorts
Six women. One city. Countless servings of takoyaki. Osaka was more than a destination—it was the start of rediscovering who I am (with a little help from my dear friend and a very advanced toilet)
Felicity Arvizu Takes On: Washington, D.C.
They say Washington, D.C. is the beating heart of American democracy. Personally, I’d say it’s more like a heartbeat monitor—beep… beep… pause… “oh, is this thing still on?” But after three days in the nation’s capital, I can confirm: it’s a city worth taking on, even if you nearly end up knocking on the WhiteContinue reading “Felicity Arvizu Takes On: Washington, D.C.”
Felicity Arvizu takes on... 