Porscha Simmons, Author at Pure Wander

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🌍Profesh traveling hot mess for 20 yrs! 💅🏼
🌎Travel tips with family & friends✨
🌎Different destinations beyond basics 🛩️
🌏Inspo, guides, & deals 🖊️

Some behind the scenes stuff. I have the easiest j

Some behind the scenes stuff. I have the easiest job in the world compared to most, but the ego/promo side of it is something wish I could leave behind. I wish I could just write all day.

Social media is a made up game where the points don’t matter so I’m just trying a little bit of everything. And trying to get over my elder millennial self with having a perfect grid 😅

#IFWTWA #travelwriterslife #eldermillennial #travelmoms

SAVE this list, my weekend warriors! 💪🏼 ✈️ Tag a friend you want to travel with for a long weekend who’s down for adventure!

It’s no joke trying to squeeze in travel when you’re working full-time. I’ve done it and sometimes it can be a headache! But the trick is to plan ahead. Last month I managed to get to Mexico City from Boston for just four days, I took a direct flight. It was fairly easy to get a feel for a new destination and still be back to work by Monday with only taking one day off.

I hope these dates can help you figure some quick adventures out too. And if you’re willing to travel over the holidays, that’s even more time to wander!

Tell me the wildest trip you squeezed in between work and life to satisfy that travel itch. 🌍

#travelblogger #weekendwarriortour #ptotimewellspent #purewander

Did you know North Conway, New Hampshire, is the #

Did you know North Conway, New Hampshire, is the #1 ski town in the U.S.? Yes, for real.

It's the perfect base to reach mutliple mountains, plus have options for family-friendly skiing and more challenging slopes too. There's plenty of other outdoor opportunities (tubing, skating, polar plunge?!), lots of foodie spots, tax-free shopping and great accomodations. 🏔

Do you ever go somewhere over and over again and forget how special it is? I've probably been up to North Conway 20 times with family and friends over the decades (!) and NEVER wrote about it. Ice Coast beat the West Coast! 😆

If I've peaked your interest go visit the Pure Wander blog for the full itinerary and insight from (almost) a local.

# #visitnh #familyski #skitowns #skitownusa #wintertraveler #wintertravels #wintertraveltips @visitnh

Honestly, sometimes I have FOMO, sometimes it’s

Honestly, sometimes I have FOMO, sometimes it’s hard. But I love having two perspectives on witnessing the world - through my own eyes and now through my daughters’ wonder. 💫

Less than a decade ago, I was out running a flash flood while searching for elephants in Sri Lanka. Now I’m touring museums in London, very slowly, with my two children under five. Times have changed and my methods of traveling have too.

But it’s all good, life begins and ends in seasons and it’s all right I’m slowing down for a little while right now.

Maybe we will all chase elephants together someday! #CapCut #srilanka #london

Should you go to Iceland 🇮🇸 in the dead of w

Should you go to Iceland 🇮🇸 in the dead of winter? It's definitely a different experience. My husband and I drove from Reykjavik to Vik and back on empty, snowy roads. Everything was fairly dark: but not in an ominous way, more of a cozy way. Soups and hot coffees were part of the main diet, and big chunky scarves were necessary as the wind whipped our faces on freezing beaches.

I haven't been back when it's warmer, but it was so special to visit this place when it felt deserted nine years ago. Like another planet. I need to go back, whether warm or cold, and check out the hot springs though!

Where do you travel in the winter? ❄

#visiticeland #travelwriterslife #wintertravels #wintertraveler

SAVE for a unique European ski destination! 🎿

SAVE for a unique European ski destination! 🎿

In 2011, the local Kayseri government and people officially launched a $200-million project to have a world-class ski complex on Mount Erciyes. They succeeded by bringing in consultants from Austria and eventually, city investors to create a slick winter oasis to visit. ⛷️

There are 18 lifts over several peaks that boast 75 miles of trails and runs for all levels. You can take ski classes one-on-one with top instructors, or go off-poste up top and conquer some double black challenges too. Those not into skiing can enjoy the fun sledging hill or any of the winter-lone events, such as the snow volleyball tournament happening while we were in town. ❄️

One Of The Best Parts? As the resort is subsidized by the local government, it’s roughly $10 USD a day to ski – all slopes, all lifts, all day (and night!) It’s another $9 for skis, boots and poles to rent. And PS – if you book a flight from the US to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines, they will offer a domestic flight to Kayseri, complimentary. It’s a steal for anyone who skis – and I’d say this skiing in Turkey rivals anywhere in Europe. 🇹🇷

* Hey I’m Eileen! I’ve dropped it all over the world to find interesting things to experience, especially with friends and family. Let’s travel together. I’d love to show you around! *

#visitturkiye #skiturkey #femaletravelblogger #wintertravels

Let’s talk Google flights! ✈️☁️ SAVE the

Let’s talk Google flights! ✈️☁️ SAVE these tips!

It’s one of the most intuitive and basic flight searchers out there. You can book directly through them, or just use it to start getting inspired for your next trip. Here’s some quick tips when using Google Flights:

☁️ Flexible Dates: Use the flexible dates feature to find cheaper options by adjusting your travel dates. If you’re going by school break or PTO, that might not be helpful, but give or take a day and make a huge difference!

☁️ Explore Destinations: if you’re cool with a lot of different potential destinations, use the “Explore” feature to discover affordable destinations.

☁️ Set Price Alerts: Enable price alerts to receive notifications when the fares for your chosen route drop.

☁️ Filter Options: Utilize filters for non-stop flights, preferred airlines, and specific airports to tailor your search.

☁️ Check Nearby Airports: Compare prices at nearby airports to find potential savings.

☁️ Use the Map! The map feature helps visualize flight prices for different destinations, making it easier to plan.

☁️ Best Time to Book: Generally, booking flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays can sometimes lead to lower prices. Obviously, a midweek trip is often more affordable than a weekend one if you’re flexible!

Comment ‘☁️’ if you need some help with a specific trip!

#flighthacks #googleflights #traveltip #traveljournalist #travelwriters

It was one of those years. I felt like I did nothi

It was one of those years. I felt like I did nothing and everything all at once. Here’s the travel recap!

* Our travels started out rough back in January with a trip to Florida to see my snowbird parents…who caught COVID the day before.

* We then took a successful ski trip to New Hampshire in February and got the three-year-old on skis for the first time.

* I took a quick solo weekend in March to Virginia for my brother’s baby shower, and then headed to Utah in April to speak at the Women in Travel Summit with @witsummit and @sheswanderful : a highlight of the year!

* A couple weeks later in May my husband and I headed to Hawaii for a lucky work incentive trip, and then a quick collaboration trip in June to Vermont.

* Later that August we tackled England and Wales with our two little ones, and did some fun local Boston events like @ciderfeasthq! Then earlier this December I had a work trip to Mexico City for a food competition hosted by the Marriott.

No new countries for 2024 but still managed to get around on a trip with my partner, a couple solo trips, some trips with friends, and a few with my two kids under five! I love a good mix and a good balance. This was a good year for that.

As to 2025: We have a couple things half booked to the UK, the Dominican Republic aaaand who knows where else! So happy to have you along for the ride with me. I’m having more fun on social and on Pure Wanderers storytelling than ever: getting my groove back! Cheers all.

#findeaño #femaletravel #familytravelling #travelwriter #optoutside #IFWTWA

I’m going to gush over something I never thought

I’m going to gush over something I never thought I would: BEETS.

In Mexico City, 🇲🇽 I visited one of the richest agricultural areas of the world, partly due because of the volcanic soil that makes everything super lush and fertile as well as the man-made canals.

In Xochimilco, there is a farm that doubles as an off the grid restaurant called @arca.tierra. And as if it couldn’t get any more special, we were treated to a cooking class led by an incredible zero waste chef @marianaoe_ who gave each table a dish to make in real time. Our women-only team efficiently prepped pounds of beets to sauté with olive oil, vinegar, honey, and salt and pepper. Simple and absolutely perfect, sourced directly from the farm.

I was so inspired that the week I got home I bought beets for my family to replicate the recipe in the last photo! Don’t get mad: I could only find pre-chopped beets (& a radish for fun) with no stems on them. I would’ve used them otherwise 😆 but it’s made me want to check out local farmers markets, and other ways to source my produce so less does go to waste in my home in the future. 🥦🥒🌽🥕🍅

My travels always revolve around food and it’s such a beautiful way to connect with a destination and people who live there. I can’t wait to share more from this jam/packed trip for now, I’m gonna go pack for a little New Year’s trip with friends to New Hampshire and probably will check in again next year! 🥂

(Thanks to Marriott Bonvoy for hosting this experience!)

#agritourism #agritourismo #marriottbonvoy #marriottbonvoymoments #arcatierra #zero #waste #zerowastechallenge #travelwritings #IFWTWA #visitcdmx

Here’s a mini holiday early evening itinerary in

Here’s a mini holiday early evening itinerary in Boston’s North End!

❄️ Grab several fresh pizzas at the OG @pizzeriaregina with a hearty glass of wine. Go early: at 4PM we had our pick of seats
❄️ Have the kids frolic down Hanover Street in the snow, stopping by @modernpastry for some cannoli to-go!
❄️ Stop in Caffé Vittoria for a cocktail, espresso, dessert, or all three! The fruit tart and lobster tails were show stoppers. PS, they’re cash only.
❄️Pop into a shop nearby before closing like @loftandvine
❄️ Be an old lady and be back in bed by nine!

We’re making a night with the littles in Boston’s Little Italy a new holiday tradition with the grandparents. Tell me about yours!

#travellocal #travelwithkidstips #bostonnorthend

this time of year, I feel like I don’t have a se

this time of year, I feel like I don’t have a second to care for myself. But I shoved in some space for my own sanity and did something I’ve always wanted to do! 👩‍🎤

@overtonecolor sent a fun package full of hair dye opportunities. I’ve NEVER dyed my hair at home, but while I’m home for the holidays I thought it could be fun to give this a whirl!

It’s a semi-permanent conditioning hair dye that smells great and goes on very easily. What a simple way to brighten up a look around the holidays. I’m kind of obsessed with how it looks and might need to get a bit more to keep the color shining for a long time!

#overtonerosegold #overtonerosegoldforbrownhair #selfcaresis #pinkhairinspo

Stay diligent out there, ladies. You never know wh

Stay diligent out there, ladies. You never know who’s crowding your shot and invading your space while you’re trying to relax on your trip.

You especially have to watch out for those husbands of 10 years who are really good sports.

Hi, I’m Eileen, and I don’t take myself too seriously while traveling almost 40 countries. Come on in, the water’s fine.

I’m truly optimistic about the use of AI and tra

I’m truly optimistic about the use of AI and travel. There will be bumps in the road, but wonderful companies like @catalinaquest.ai are changing the game when it comes to utilizing this technology and personal expertise to craft incredible trip experiences. 🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒➡️🛫

You can have a peek at their quiz for free to see how AI can inspire you on your next vacation and take care of all the details!

#aitravel #traveladvisorsmakeithappen #familytravel #london🇬🇧

800+ sous chefs, pastry chefs in training, and shi

800+ sous chefs, pastry chefs in training, and shining bartenders competed throughout Latin American and the Caribbean for "Masters of the Craft". The finals were held in Mexico City at the @thewestinsantafe - I had a front row seat!

Obviously watching these talented people compete was a highlight, but we also hung out with everyone while we had some fun cocktail hours at the beautiful hotel and visted some agritourism spots just outside the city. Many of the nine finalists had not left thier home country before and this was a huge, honking deal. Marriott rolled out the red carpet for everyone. It was such a treat to learn about so many incredible culinary stories, flavors, and traditions in one place.

We had a blast in CDMX eating all the things and cramming in as much fun as you can in four days - I can't wait to share the adventure more. Thanks to Marriot Bonvoy for putting on such a thrilling event. -Eileen

#MexicoCityEats #mexicocityfood #cdmxfoodie #cdmxparatodos #femaletraveler #femaletravelbloggers #purewander #mastersofthecraft

I used to collect magnets but I need to up my trav

I used to collect magnets but I need to up my travel ornament 🎄 game! Of course we have all the standards and classics too, but I’m starting to look for a trinkets we can put on the tree when we travel. Here’s what I have so far:

Pawleys Island, South Carolina: oyster shell
London, England: fabric double decker
Kyoto, Japan: wooden temple
Edinburgh, Scotland: Tartan pattern
Provincetown, Massachusetts: Hot gay Irish mermaid

My mermaid leprechaun is my favorite 😂

Show & tell your favorite ornament !

#holidaytravels #holidaytraveling #travelornaments #happyholidayseason #homeforchristmas

I ate as many Mexican dishes as I could in three d

I ate as many Mexican dishes as I could in three days. We covered tiny taquerias, carts full of carnitas, even a taco stand with a Michelin star. 🌮✨

But I want to offer a nod to the @thewestinsantafe first in Mexico City, because they have paid homeage to so many Mexican culinary traditions. I was there for a food competition (more later on that), but also had a chance to enjoy the restaurants.

At the Market I indulged some local fish ceviche and duck confit tacos to start out my CDMX adventure. The truffles in the Westin Club were so rich and wonderful, as was the flan and chocolate mousse cake. Then we enjoyed a dinner at K-ntina, where we sampled a traditional Mexican Christmas eve dinner. Mole, bacalao fish, sweet potato puree and steak all went down great with margaritas and Mexican wine.

Sure, I could have had a pizza or pancakes anytime too, but I was glad I didn't have to roam far to have some tasty local dishes right at the hotel. -Eileen

#IFWTWA #westinsantafe #foodietraveler #tacosmexicanos #travelforthefood #MastersoftheCraft

✨Pure Wander’s Annual Travel Holiday Giveaways

✨Pure Wander’s Annual Travel Holiday Giveaways: Prize Bundle #2! ✨

My boots from indigenous-owned Manitobah are the only pair that have ever kept my toesies warm all winter in New England.

I’m thrilled to partner with @manitobah and @nosopatches to choose two lucky winners for prize is valued at more than $395!

If you travel near or far this winter, these will be essential for your next trip. Two winners will each be chosen to win either an incredible prize bundle from Manitobah featuring their waterproof snowy owl mukluk boots, hat, and mittens. Or, a $75 gift card to NoSo patches for sustainable outerwear repair without ironing or sewing.

You can read the full review of these gifts and many others on our gift guide series at the Pure Wander site. We curated things that support marginalized communities, offer sustainable solutions, and are unique choices for the holiday season!

TO ENTER:

✨FOLLOW @pure_wander, @manitobah and @nosopatches

✨LIKE and SAVE this post

✨TAG friends who like to live a little more sustainably, or who will need to keep warm this winter!

For BONUS entries, visit the Pure Wander blog giveaway page for lots more chances to win! -Eileen

Giveaway ends December 20 at 11:59 EST. We will notify the winner via Instagram, DM or email.

Entrants must be 18+ and be residents of the US or Canada.

I am not finding a healthy balance. Is anyone else

I am not finding a healthy balance. Is anyone else struggling with that? 🧘🏽‍♀️🙃

Sometimes it feels like everyone’s figured out some Zen middle where they consume things about the world burning and still find peace and meditation and the present and this that the other thing. I’m lucky I have tools too cope fairly well, but still.

I took a second this last week to spend way less time online because not only was news making me feel bananas, I started getting down a hole of comparison. This is my slowest year of travel ever I think and although I know deep down it’s OK, it still makes me feel a little melancholy to see everybody else flying around the world. Or at least it feels that way.

With that said, I am getting on a plane in two days so I need to just be grateful for the opportunities I have because they are wonderful and I’ve done so much in the past too. But I really do think I need to get out and touch grass more. 😅

The only clothes I wear now when I'm far away from

The only clothes I wear now when I'm far away from my kids yogurt-covered hands is @unboundmerino. These basics are so soft, almost wrinkle-free, and stay clean for days/weeks with an odorless wool fabric. It's magic apparel for traveling moms (and dads!) like me. Their long-sleeve shirt worked great for casual hiking in Bryce Canyon, and the basic white t-shirt is my go-to for remote working.⌨

They are investment pieces because they're made to last a long time, but once a year they go on sale at 40% off tanks, shirts, pants, and more. It's well worth browsing to see if you'd like to update and streamline your travel and liesure wordrobe. My traveling friends have worn Unbound on safari, while biking in Italy: almost everywhere. Have a peek and shop sustainably this year!

Comment 'Merino" for the sale link or find it in my b!o. I won't be promo-ing too many Black Friday sales, but this one is a goodie.🌳

#unboundmerino #femaletravel #sustainabletraveling #blackfriday2024 #blackfridaydeals #blackfridaysales

Happy "Women-led Wednesday"! Since 2018, this wome

Happy "Women-led Wednesday"! Since 2018, this women-led orginization has encouraged holiday shoppers to consider business owned by women first to help level the playing field and support these great brands. 🌠

Don't you worry: this year I did the leg work for you. Our travel-and-food-themed gift guides are now live on Pure Wander, and more than 90% of the brands I researched and reviewed are from women-owned businesses, sustainable brands, or from marginialized communities (or all three!)

Here's a few:

🎁Melissa Coppel vegan chocolates
🎁In2Green woven blankets
🎁NoSo patches
🎁Chunky Deli foodie onsies and gourmet board books
🎁Busy Baby tethers and bungee travel mat

See the full reviews on the Pure Wander blog with links to special sales too! I keep my gifts to a minimum these days, choosing quality over quanitity and investing in things that leave imapct and last. I hope you find some hidden gems on my lists, curated my me and a few other fellow travelers, to find some amazing brands to support. Happy holidays!

#womenledwednesday #travelgifts #HolidaySavings #familytravel #wlw

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About Us
Travel Tips
Destinations
- North America
- South America
- Caribbean
- Europe
- Asia
- Africa
- Oceania
Letters To The Editor

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6 Tips to Make the Most Out of Any Destination
10 Terrific Tips for Traveling College Students
Feel like a local ski bum in North Conway, New Hampshire
Milan in 3 Days: 5 Must-See Highlights for Explorers
The Experience Festival: 4 Days of Love, Peace, Trance & Dance in Thailand

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