Author: Jim Santos
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Slow Travel Book Coming Soon
Slow travel is not a trend to us; it is a framework for living that grew from a simple choice to trade a crowded itinerary for a deeper connection. When we first weighed a 12-cities-in-14-days package against a self-planned three-week stay, the math and the mood both favored slowness. Renting an apartment near the Arno…
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Castles, Creepy Laundry Rooms, and Airbnb Disasters
Our ten-week journey through Europe recently concluded with an extensive exploration of Ireland, completing a circuit that began on the east coast and took us through Northern Ireland, the Great Atlantic Way, the southern coast, and finally back to the eastern coast of Ireland before finishing in Dublin. After our adventures in England, Wales, Scotland,…
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Exploring Western Ireland: From Galway to the Wild Atlantic Way
Our recent 10-week journey through Ireland’s western coast offered a glimpse into both well-traveled tourist destinations and hidden local gems. After establishing our base in Oranmore, just outside Galway, we set out to experience Ireland’s famous landscapes and small towns that define its rugged western edge. Galway itself presented a mixed experience. As Ireland’s fourth…
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The Unexpected Connection Between Travel and Stage Fright
There’s something uniquely terrifying about standing in front of a crowd, all eyes on you, waiting for you to speak. As it turns out, this fear isn’t just common—it’s practically universal. Public speaking consistently ranks higher than death in surveys about people’s greatest fears. As Jerry Seinfeld famously joked, most people at a funeral would…
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Discovering County Roscommon: Ireland’s Hidden Heartland of History, Legend, and Pastoral Beauty
Escape the crowded tourist trails and discover County Roscommon, a hidden gem in Ireland’s heartland. This beautiful and bucolic county offers a peaceful retreat steeped in history and legend, a place where pastoral landscapes meet ancient stories. While Ireland’s overall visitor numbers have seen fluctuations, with overseas visitors down 15% in March 2025 compared to…
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Tips for Visiting The Cliffs of Moher: Costs, Crowds, and the Best Viewing Angles
The Cliffs of Moher. Just the name conjures images of dramatic coastlines, crashing waves, and windswept beauty. This iconic Irish landmark attracts approximately 1.5 million visitors every year, and for good reason. But planning a trip to this natural wonder requires a little know-how to make the most of your experience. From understanding the costs…
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Ditching the 9-to-5 for Wide Open Roads: Is Full-Time RV Living for You?
Ever dreamed of saying “see ya!” to the daily grind and hitting the open road? The idea of living full-time in an RV or camper has definitely captured the hearts of many, promising a life filled with freedom, adventure, and a whole lot less stuff. But is it all sunshine and scenic overlooks? Let’s dive…
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From Belfast to Roscommon: Castles, Coastlines, and Cultural Discoveries
Ireland presents a captivating tableau of contrasting experiences, where stunning natural beauty mingles with stark reminders of a troubled past. Our recent 10-week overseas journey brought us to this enchanting island, where we embarked on a 29-day counterclockwise exploration that revealed both expected treasures and unexpected delights. Our Irish adventure began with an unpleasant surprise…
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Is Affordable Healthcare Worth Leaving Home For?
Medical tourism is a growing trend among Americans seeking respite from the astronomical costs of healthcare in the United States. As someone who has experienced both systems firsthand, I want to share my journey of receiving medical care abroad and how it compares to healthcare in America. This perspective might help those considering similar options…
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Beyond Cruise Ships: The Freedom of Charter Sailing
Charter sailing represents one of travel’s most liberating experiences, offering adventurers the opportunity to explore coastal destinations with unparalleled freedom and authenticity. In our latest podcast episode of “Travels with Jim and Rita,” we were fortunate to speak with June Russell-Chamberlain, a seasoned travel writer and photographer who has discovered the joys of exploring the…