Travelling doesn’t necessarily mean going somewhere far and wide. One of my favorite trips during the summer is right in my backyard of Michigan. Going up north is a trip I look forward to every summer. In Evart Michigan, lies a little cabin in the woods owned by my family. Its my perfect Michigan summer getaway from reality. With 40 acres of playing ground, a lake down the street, and neighbors 3 miles down the road I find myself at comfort. 

Pure Michigan offers a variety of different up north activities. One of my favorite places in Michigan to visit is the sleeping bear dunes. Many people visit the dunes for the rolling hills of land overlooking Lake Michigan, but I go for different reasons. On a hot summer night, sleeping bear dunes makes for one of the best stargazing locations. I’ve even seen many northern lights in the sky on clear nights. This location is perfect for late night stargazing. 

Just north of Lansing lies Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. This casino is filled with entertainment for all types of people. Offering a waterpark, dining options, spa relaxation, and an outdoor amphitheatre, Soaring Eagle has options for any category. My family loves travelling to Soaring Eagle on up north getaways. While I usually attend the outdoor hot tub, my parents love the casino. This is up north location is perfect for the whole family. 

Mackinac Island is another hot spot located in the upper peninsula. My first time at Mackinaw, I was surprised to hear there was no automobile access. Although the experience made it more fun, riding bikes and walking on the island. Mackinaw is also known for its variety of different fudges. One of my family’s favorite things to do on Mackinac is charter fishing. Mackinaw offers fishing off the straits with outstanding scenery. This relaxing island offers many more activities including carriage rides, castle tours, and parasailing. 

Glen Arbor is my last stop in my up north travels. This city is one of my favorite destinations in the state of Michigan. Offering crystal blue waters and winerys all around the area, this trip is not one to miss. Downtown Glen Arbor, has many vintage stores. With walkable distance, the Cherry Republic is by far one of my favorite stores. All of the items in the store are made out of cherries or cherry based, such as cherry jam, candy, and pie. Glen Arbor also contains many hiking and outdoor activities such as Alligator Trial. This summer vacation spot is perfect for all recreations.

Find your perfect up north Michigan spot!

Chloe West.

Packing your suitcase is one of the most stressful parts before and after a vacation. Many people struggle with the weight limit, not enough space, and how to fold clothes. From my experiences of travelling, I’ve learned some techniques along the way to make the process flow. Your goals is to maximize as much space as possible without ruining any of the items. Read below to learn about easy tips for packing and handling. 

When deciding on clothes, make a pile of every item you’re considering bringing. Once you have your pile, I usually take out half of the items so I don’t overpack. After setting aside the clothes you want, my favorite technique is to roll each piece. I would start by rolling T-shirts, jeans, and any other article of clothing that won’t be wrinkled. Clothing that can be wrinkled should be folded and layed on top of rolled clothing. Make sure you have extra space just in case of any last minute items you need to take.

What you wear on the trip is almost as important as packing. Picking heavier items to wear on the trip will create more room in the suitcase. It is important to bring another bag besides your suitcase as well. This can be used to store smaller items or any last minute objects. I always find it useful to bring a backpack to store items such as my makeup, hairbrush, and underwear.  I always try to wear layers of items, so I can place more in my suitcase as well.

Packing shoes is always a challenge when you’re travelling. I always try to pack a minimum of three shoes for any vacation. I base my shoes off of comfy, fancy, and casual. This could be tennis shoes, heels, and sandals for someone traveling to a warm destination. Making shoes in a suitcase usually takes up a lot of space, so choose wisely. I also try to wear the heaviest shoes possible when travelling to leave more space for others. 

Liquids and toiletries should be placed near the top of the suitcase, so they are both easy to access. You may also want to keep liquids near the top in case of any T.S.A checks at the airport. I usually keep my toiletries in a different kit to stay more organized on my trip. This way, I can bring all my items into the bathroom at my destination. For liquid products, such as sunscreen or lotion, I always double bags the items in case of any spillage. 

Following these basic tips will help you stay organized in your suitcase throughout the trip. 

Chloe West.

This past summer, I travelled about an hour West of my house to Michigan’s International Speedway for the Faster Horses Festival. The day before the festival, one of my friends called me asking to purchase these reasonable tickets and go to the weekend getaway with her. I was hesitant at first, considering I’ve never been to the Faster Horses Festival. I knew I would be living out of tent, a roll-away shower, and no air conditioning for a weekend. Although, I was determined to make my last few weeks of summer spontaneous, so I said yes. 

Packing the night before was stressful. I threw half of my summer clothes into a suitcase, a couple snacks, water bottles, and a pillow. I knew that people prepared for this festival with weeks in advance so the pressure was starting to build up. Although at the same time, it was only a weekend getaway so I could survive off whatever I didn’t bring. I slept over with my friend the night before and made a last minute checklist of items to bring. The next day we woke up early, packed our items in the car and headed to Michigan’s International Speedway. 

Once we arrived to the campgrounds, the speedway was surrounded by huge campers, canopies and tents. I continued to become nervous knowing we only had a little tent. The heat index this weekend was also at the hottest point Michigan had all summer. After setting up our tent, the heat was almost unbearable. We knew sleeping would be dangerous if we didn’t have at least a fan on. All the campers around us had generators and outlets for fans, while we had nothing. One family was nice enough to let us share an outlet and one of their fans for the weekend. We realized we should’ve brought a fan and extension cords… 

Trying to not let our living situation bring us down, we made our way over to the concert grounds. Besides the intensive heat and large crowds of sweaty people, the concert was fun. Although, I knew what happens after the concert in the “infield” of the speedway. Midnight rolled around and party started to begin. We made our way to my other friends camper in the infield. All my troubles went away after seeing multiple people from my hometown having fun and enjoying the night. I let loose and enjoyed the moment I was in. 

Although the next day crept about and continued to give us hardships. Since the weather was so hot, a tornado was supposedly forming about 20 miles outside of the grounds. My friend and I knew it wasn’t safe to stay in our tent, so we packed up all our gear and went to a nearby camper. Our friends in the camper let us stay till the intense storm blew over and it was safe to head back to our campsite. Once we got back to our campsite, our tent was gone. 

Many people always try to plan spontaneous adventures without any knowledge on the designated area. Although I did have fun with my friends at the festival, I knew I should’ve planned in advance. If I would’ve ordered the tickets earlier, I would’ve known to bring necessary items such as a generator. I also lost money on top of the tickets considering my tent blew away and we had to get ice everyday for drinks. Before partaking on an adventure, make sure you have the necessary items for living. This way you won’t be worried and it will make your experience more enjoyable.

Chloe West.

Charleston, South Carolina is known for its sandy beaches, downtown architecture, and everlasting history. Being ranked the “world’s best city,” by Travel and Leisure, Charleston offers a wide range of options. This city is my favorite travel spot for all of my hobbies. Read below to learn about what the famous city of Charleston, South Carolina provides. 

My favorite hot spot on the outer banks of Charleston is an island called “Isle of Palms.” Isle of Palms offers a remotely quiet beach, surf shops, and dive-in bars. Located 16 miles from downtown, this warm beach front is the perfect weekend getaway. The small town atmosphere of the island gives off that warm and cozy feelings. This is one of my favorite beaches along the Charleston strip due to the serenity and relaxation. 

My next favorite spot is located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the city market. This market is referred to as the “slave market,” because many slaves were purchased at this location back in history. The old rustic market is lined with producers selling different goods. From fine jewelry to city souvenirs, the market offers a variety of purchasers. This spot is hot tourist site to not only learn about the history of the city, but the shop as well. It’s hard to miss this strip market, so make sure you walk through on your way! 

Many people recognize the city of Charleston from the different colored mansions along the water strip. This location is called “The Battery,” and is a must see site. This neighborhood is filled with a variety of colors and architecture. These mansions cost millions of dollars and are owned by many famous citizens. Near White Point Garden, at the end of the mansions lies many statues commemorating the Civil War. This scenic stroll down Charleston is one for the sightseers. 

One of my favorite tourist spots was the old city jail located in downtown Charleston as well. This haunted tour will take you around the jail grounds and through prisoner cells. Many famous criminals such as John Fisher a hotelier, who supposedly poisoned his guests. This spooky tour also gives you more knowledge on Charleston history and background. Visitors of the jail have often seen door slams, loud noises, and objects move. This thrilling site see will keep you on your toes. 

Since my dad is a distiller, we had to visit Charleston’s first ever distillery after prohibition when we vacationed. I didn’t think I would be that interested in the process, but I was. You get a close look at the custom mills and the process of distilling. My parents favorite part was the tasting room. This rusic distillery is another taste of history in Charleston. This distillery walk thru is a fun family sightsee adventure!

Chloe West.

Planning your vacation can be stressful and time consuming. Although this process is necessary for a successful trip. These important tips below will help you prepare. 

Before enduring on your adventure, you should always plan ahead of time. One huge important task before leaving is making sure you have all forms of documentation. Documentation is needed regarding passports, credit cards, etc. Even bringing second hand forms of these options is encouraged because you never know what could happen. In events of your card being stolen or lost, you don’t want to be stuck somewhere without any form of money. As well as a second form of ID. Keeping these items on your phone is a safe and quick way for pulling up your information too. 

Learning the language or basic sentences in the area you are traveling too is important for interactions. Communication among locals is key for guidance within the area and overall enjoyment. The locals will appreciate your effort of trying to speak their language. Learning basic phrases such as “where is the bathroom” or “thank you,” can go a long in way in communication. Before speaking, you want to make sure you know the exact word. This way any offensive slang will not occur accidently. You might even find enjoyment from learning this language and will continue to pursue it!

One huge item travelers tend to forget to bring is a first aid kit. Bringing a first aid kit on vacation is essential, considering you never know when accidents happen. Bringing band-aids, gloves, tweezers, pain medication, and types of ointment will go a long way. If minor accidents happen, you will have the tools on hand rather than having to figure out where to go and purchase them. Make sure if you are traveling through custom officials, you keep on the brand names of the liquids, therefore you don’t waste time being checked. Be prepared for your vacation and the accidents that could potentially happen. 

Many vacationers try to workout before traveling to show off their body. Although, your figure is not the only thing you gain from working out. Working out before vacation will give you a high endurance and keep you energized on the trip. You want to make sure you can keep up with that 5 mile walking tour. Vaccinating before you go on trips is also apart of your health. Becoming ill on a vacation is not fun and will keep you from enjoying your trip. Many countries require certain vaccinations either way, so make sure you do research before. Contact your local medical professional to learn more about necessary vaccinations. 

One of my personal tips is to not overplan your vacations! Let your plans flow and visit sites as long the way. My family travels to Cancun, Mexico every year. We always do the same activities such as laying on the beach, but one day we decided to travel to an island off of Cancun. Ever since we traveled to the island, we go back every year. This makes your trip less stressful and relaxed. Spontaneous adventures will lead you to new experiences, food, and people. 

Chloe West.

This is an example post, originally published as part of Blogging University. Enroll in one of our ten programs, and start your blog right.

You’re going to publish a post today. Don’t worry about how your blog looks. Don’t worry if you haven’t given it a name yet, or you’re feeling overwhelmed. Just click the “New Post” button, and tell us why you’re here.

Why do this?

• Because it gives new readers context. What are you about? Why should they read your blog?
• Because it will help you focus you own ideas about your blog and what you’d like to do with it.

The post can be short or long, a personal intro to your life or a bloggy mission statement, a manifesto for the future or a simple outline of your the types of things you hope to publish.

To help you get started, here are a few questions:

• Why are you blogging publicly, rather than keeping a personal journal?
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• If you blog successfully throughout the next year, what would you hope to have accomplished?

You’re not locked into any of this; one of the wonderful things about blogs is how they constantly evolve as we learn, grow, and interact with one another — but it’s good to know where and why you started, and articulating your goals may just give you a few other post ideas.

Can’t think how to get started? Just write the first thing that pops into your head. Anne Lamott, author of a book on writing we love, says that you need to give yourself permission to write a “crappy first draft”. Anne makes a great point — just start writing, and worry about editing it later.

When you’re ready to publish, give your post three to five tags that describe your blog’s focus — writing, photography, fiction, parenting, food, cars, movies, sports, whatever. These tags will help others who care about your topics find you in the Reader. Make sure one of the tags is “zerotohero,” so other new bloggers can find you, too.