Erika is an avid traveler and explorer of over ninety countries on six different continents. Since 2011, she has spent time studying Arabic in the Middle East, teaching English in Namibia and working as a flight attendant for a major US airline. When not traveling overseas, she loves exploring her own backyard in the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

  • Le Grotte di Frasassi, Marche
    Italy

    Guide to the Frasassi Caves in Italy

    Deep under the hills of Italy’s Marche region, you’ll find a subterranean world of delicate calcareous sculptures and fairytale spires. This ethereal wonderland—known as the Frasassi Caves (or Grotte di Frasassi in Italian)—is one of Europe’s largest cave systems and a highlight of travel to Central Italy. The Frasassi Caves are rich in whimsical formations. Gouged out by the Sentino River over the course of 150 million years, their sculpted chambers rival the most intricate on Earth.   THE GROTTE DI FRASASSI The Grotte di Frasassi are located in the…

  • Erechtheion statues
    Greece

    Visiting the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens

    The ancient Acropolis of Athens is the beating heart of Greece. Crowned by the Parthenon, its Pentelic marble ruins—visible from nearly  everywhere within the city—tower above the modern Greek capital. Arguably the most important building in the Western world, it is regarded as the apotheisis of Classical Greek civilization. The Acropolis is the original home of democracy. The birthplace of modern philosophy. The cradle of Western Civilization. One of ancient humanity’s crowning achievements. And the absolute #1 place to visit in Athens (by a long shot).   THE ACROPOLIS OF…

  • Greece

    Things to Do in Milos, Greece

    Milos is an Aegean gem that features dramatic coastal landscapes and quintessential Cycladic architecture. The Greek island is home to picture-perfect fishing villages, ancient ruins, and remote sun-kissed beaches.  Yet despite its appeal, Milos still manages to fly under the radar. Outside of major tourist attractions like Sarakiniko and Kleftiko, the island is a treasure trove of secluded beaches, isolated swimming holes, and lonely dirt roads. Milos’ claim to fame, the venerated Venus de Milo, may have found a new home in the Louvre, but the island’s breathtaking scenery and…

  • Cute Street in Nouassa, Paros
    Greece

    Guide to Paros and Antiparos, Greece

    The idyllic island of Paros—awarded best in Europe by Travel and Leisure in both 2018 and 2020—seems to have it all.  The pretty Greek island has managed to strike a balance between easygoing and bustling, rustic and cosmopolitan, amenity-filled and affordable. It blends laid-back sophistication with unspoiled Cycladic beauty. Though certainly not off the beaten path, Paros often takes a backseat to the more popular islands of Mykonos and Santorini. As such, the island remains enticing in its beauty, yet still shielded somewhat from influencer fame.   PAROS ISLAND: THINGS…

  • Hilltop Churches in Naxos Greece
    Greece

    Things to Do in Naxos: Largest Island in the Cyclades

    The Greek island of Naxos is an unassuming gem. Boasting traditional Cycladic whitewashed villages and dramatic scenery, it is both understated and well-endowed. Naxos welcomes visitors with its laidback charm and sparkling Aegean waters. It may not be as renowned as nearby Santorini or Mykonos, but the island exudes a different vibe: one that is less commercialized, less Insta-famous, and equally beautiful.    TOP NAXOS ATTRACTIONS AND ITINERARY SUGGESTIONS Naxos is the largest and greenest island in the Cyclades. It contains a wonderful balance of charming towns, photogenic scenery, ancient…

  • Santorini White Village and Blue Domes
    Greece

    Two Days in Santorini: Gem of the Cyclades

    Santorini is a destination that needs no introduction. One of the most renowned islands in the world, it is quite simply a breathtaking place—with whitewashed villages tumbling toward the sea and cobalt waters scintillating under the Aegean sun. Considering its beauty, it comes as no surprise that the Greek island is a magnet for Instagrammers and honeymooners. Millions of tourists flock to its shores every year in search of the perfect white and blue backdrop. Although I often pride myself in straying away from the crowds, I could’t resist adding…