March 2026
Your sassy slurp of travel intel, deals, and insights from your solo European immigrant.
Welcome
Last month, I took a risk and added a monthly newsletter, Pearls. Less a creative pivot, more a strategic move to protect both quality and what’s left of my sanity. Between preparing to move from Portugal to France via the United States, learning a new language and culture, navigating immigration again, and planning full-time travel from April 2026 to April(ish) 2027, something had to give. Oh, and write my first book!
The response? Overwhelmingly positive.
Thank you to everyone who subscribed, shared, reached out, and took advantage of the tips and discounts. It means a lot… and confirms this community is on the right track.
Shucking Travel News
Here´s an under-the-radar topic to consider: Where are antibiotics failing, and what comes next? This can negatively affect your travels abroad, where quality, overuse, and dubious manufacturing may impact your health. Pro Tip: Antibiotics are a staple in my travel kit. While I hope to never need them, they’re a little insurance policy if I get sick on the road. I know where they were manufactured, ensuring they come from a reputable, local farmácia. The last thing you want is to be wobbling through unfamiliar streets, searching for an ER or toilet.
Truth be told, I’ve been hauling around the same slightly beat-up pack of not-yet-expired antibiotics for years. They’ve logged plenty of miles — and thankfully, have never been called into action.
It may surprise you that the world´s deadliest creature is not a lion, a snake, or even the infamous Australian box jellyfish. It´s the humble mosquito. After a long, wet winter — like the one much of Europe and parts of the United States just experienced — mosquito populations can explode just in time for spring and summer travel. Mosquitos can transmit a host of very nasty diseases, causing sickness or even make you pop your last cork. And protecting yourself applies to more than just the tropics… I´m talking to you, Europe, with your lack of window screens and ineffective insect repellent. Knowing how to protect yourself from these buzzy little creatures could save your life and ensure your itch to travel is bite-free.
The Silver Lining Discounts
Once the calendar turns to March, there´s an appetite to get outside, travel, and soak up some sun. Let´s call it spring fever!!
Whether you´re heading for warmer days or committed to hitting the slopes one more time, Viator offers discounts on all-inclusive vacations or walking tours to help you get the most out of spring. Also, you can create a wishlist… putting your dream holiday within reach. Yes, by using the above link, I may receive a small commission. There, lawyers are happy.
Juicy Morsel Tips
Coordinating travel logistics is not for the faint of heart. Every year, travel becomes just a little more tedious with ever-increasing regulations and hoops to jump through. Recently, when I was whining to a friend about how difficult it is becoming to book a simple international flight, he shared that he gets excited when in the throes of logistics because it means he´s going somewhere. Great perspective, but I still had to take a mental break. Pro Tip: When frustration builds and you want to punch your laptop, stepping away for a few minutes (or an hour) to clear your mind can lead to success. Yes, I found a better, cheaper, and faster international flight. Yabba Doo!
Our friends over at Travel + Leisure recently shared how to Save Money by Avoiding These 8 Flight Booking Pitfalls. We´re talking to you, algorithms.
Strands-From The Archives
Preparing for trips, big or small, may include a wave (or ten) of anxiety, especially on travel days. Something I´ve always struggled with, I continue to stare down complex bus routes and grin with pseudo-confidence while my heart does a little tap dance.
From the archives of July 2024, "How to Calm Your Travel Day Anxiety" will help you arrive with your sanity in check, be mentally present, and require only one glass of therapy. Let my experience and tips send your travel anxiety packing.
Turn The Page
Soldiers Of A Different Cloth: Notre Dame Chaplains In World War II
What started out as “Oh, I’ll read something historical” ended up as one of the most engaging books I´ve ever read. A true page-turner. I had no idea of the contributions, guts, and hardships Chaplains endured on both the European and Pacific war theaters. Highly recommend for any history buffs. By John F. Wukovits
Stupid Things I Won´t Do When I´m Old
A humorous and honest memoir challenging stereotypes about aging. Inspired by his parents’ experiences, Petrow lists “stupid” things to avoid — such as being stubborn or limiting one’s social circle — to ensure a vibrant, independent, and joyful later life. Perfect to read alone or to spark a lively book club discussion. By Steven Petrow
