Departing Hanoi: the Reunification Express Rucksacks slung over our shoulders, Brian and I board the night train at Hanoi Station. The Reunification Express, as it’s formally known, is a weathered, no-frills train. Like so much of Vietnam, it feels like a bit of a time capsule. Through the PA system overhead, an authoritative recording blares … Continue reading The Night Train

A safari outfitter client asked for an overhaul of their web copy on one of their activity pages. Here, I detail how I optimized their page with fresh, engaging copy that sells.

Planning to travel to Paris with your kids in tow? Follow these must-have tips for enjoying the city with travelers young and old. Get around on foot as much as possible. Paris is a delightfully walkable city. Much of it is dense,–in a good way–and distances between many major sights are shorter than you might … Continue reading Essential Tips for Navigating Paris with Kids

Today, my parents and little sister are making a huge move: from western Washington (where we were raised) to the suburbs of Phoenix. The news has raised a few eyebrows among our friends, so I think it’s rather fitting that my family’s new address will be in Surprise, Arizona. No joke. Meanwhile, I’m 3,000 miles … Continue reading Where in the World

The tinkle of a bell—tin meeting copper— Shakes stiff bones to consciousness. Still, awakening, my ears receive the day’s first sounds: The rustle, crinkle, swish of sheets tossed back.   Teak floors leaking cracks of daylight from below Creak under snappy, cracking, good-morning toes. Screen doors pop, snap, click in and out of frames, Ushering in fugitive … Continue reading Prelude to Morning Yoga