My Family Travels | Latest Articles
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7 Underground Music Festivals In Colorado That Locals Love

Colorado's mountains hide more than just ski slopes and hiking trails – they're home to some of the coolest music festivals you've never heard of! While tourists flock to the...

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10 Florida Hidden Springs That Feel Like Nature’s Secret Spa

Florida's underground aquifer system creates magical springs where crystal-clear water bubbles up from deep within the earth. I've spent years exploring these natural wonders that...

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8 Illegal Camping Areas in Nevada That Could Ruin Your Trip

Nevada’s vast desert vistas might seem like an open invitation for adventurous campers, but there are plenty of places where pitching a tent is strictly off-limits. From bustling...

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The California Grocery Meat Test: 5 Fails vs. 5 Winners

California’s grocery stores offer a range of experiences. From bustling national chains to community markets, no two stores are quite alike. Shoppers across the state often judge...

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7 Historic Mining Towns Across Nevada for a Weekend Trip

Nevada’s past glitters with the legacy of mining, stretching back to the silver and gold rushes that changed the state forever. Many travelers, myself included, are drawn to...

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10 Weekend Getaways to Ohio’s Charming Small Towns

Have you ever had one of those weeks that just chewed you up and spit you out? If you’ve ever fantasized about vanishing with your favorite playlist and a suitcase...

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9 Secret Taco Spots in Florida

Florida’s food scene reflects its coastal setting and diverse communities, and tacos are no exception. While well-known restaurants serve Mexican-inspired dishes, some of the...

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7 Illegal Tour Routes in Hawaii That Can Get You Fined

Hawaii’s stunning landscapes draw visitors from across the globe, but not every trail, road, or shoreline is open to the public. Some areas are closed to protect fragile ecosystems...

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10 Texas Small Towns That Make the Perfect Quick Escape

Texas may be known for its big cities, but its small towns offer easy getaways filled with history, scenery, and a slower pace. Within a short drive of urban centers, these towns...

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7 Under-the-radar North Carolina Restaurant That Locals Can’t Get Enough Of

North Carolina’s food scene ranges from coastal seafood to mountain comfort cooking, with barbecue and Southern staples in between. While many well-known restaurants draw visitors,...

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7 Illegal Fishing Zones in Florida Tourists Often Accidentally Enter

Florida is a top destination for recreational fishing, but not every body of water or stretch of shoreline is open to anglers. Certain areas are off-limits due to environmental...

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7 Illegal Trails in Colorado That Hikers Should Avoid

Colorado’s mountains and public lands draw hikers from every corner of the world, but not every well-worn path is legal or safe to explore. Some trails cross into private property,...

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7 Lakefront Blossoms Found Only in Michigan Perfect Gentle Trips

Michigan’s freshwater shorelines create unique habitats where rare wildflowers and lakefront blossoms grow. These blooms, found only within the Great Lakes region, flourish thanks...

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8 Wildflowers You Can Only See in Texas Perfect for Senior Day Trips

Texas is home to a dazzling array of wildflowers, many of which exist only within its vast and varied landscapes. Thanks to the state’s size and ecological diversity, each region...

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7 Florida Water Lily Gardens That Offer Benches, Shade, and Stunning Views

Florida’s climate makes it an ideal setting for aquatic gardens, and water lilies thrive in ponds across the state. More than ornamental plants, these flowers provide color,...

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7 Michigan Lakefront Restaurants Only Shared Among Locals’ Closest Friends

With over 3,000 miles of shoreline, Michigan is full of dining spots where water views and local flavor go hand-in-hand. While some restaurants draw crowds from far and wide, others...

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8 Florida Restaurants You’ll Only Hear About If a Local Trusts You

Florida is full of well-known dining spots, especially in tourist centers like Miami, Orlando, and Key West. But beyond the guidebook highlights are restaurants that locals keep...

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6 Texas Riverwalks Perfect for a Stroll

Have you ever noticed how the right walk at the right time can solve almost anything? Not the kind of walk you squeeze in between errands, but one where you actually have space...

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8 Hidden Parks in Los Angeles You Haven’t Seen Yet

Here’s a real talk moment: Even in a city packed with palm trees and yoga studios, finding a truly peaceful spot in Los Angeles can feel like trying to get the last everything...

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7 Zipline Parks in West Virginia for Adventure Seekers

You know that feeling when your morning coffee just doesn’t cut it and you crave something truly electrifying? West Virginia gets it.

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8 Public Caves in Arkansas You Can Explore

Real talk: there’s something oddly grounding about crawling around under a chunk of the Ozarks. Maybe it’s the cool air, maybe it’s the fact that your phone...

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8 Washington Wineries Perfect for a Day Out

Your best friend probably won’t say it, but I will: some days, you crave more than just another weekend brunch. Maybe you want to taste something that reminds you you’re...

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9 Underrated Pizza Places in Michigan

Michigan is home to some incredible and often overlooked pizza joints. From classic deep-dish to unique local flavors, these pizzerias have something special to offer.

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8 Small Artist Villages in California for a Unique Weekend Trip

California, known for its diverse artistic landscape, is home to several quaint villages perfect for a creative escape. These towns, scattered across the state, offer visitors...

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7 Ways Native History Still Shapes Travel in New Mexico Today

New Mexico, with its rich Indigenous history, offers a unique travel experience. The influence of Native American culture can be seen throughout the state, providing both educational...

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9 Charming Downtown Areas in Florida Locals Love

Discover the vibrant charm of Florida's downtowns, where history, culture, and community converge. From historic streets to waterfront views, each area offers a unique experience...

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8 Roles of Jazz in Defining Louisiana as a Global Destination

Jazz is an integral part of Louisiana's identity, shaping its cultural and musical landscape. With its roots deeply planted in New Orleans, jazz has become a symbol of the state's...

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7 Florida Grocery Stores Tourists Love But Locals Don’t Trust

Florida's grocery scene is as diverse as its culture, with many stores attracting tourists while leaving locals skeptical. This list explores seven grocery chains that are popular...

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8 Reasons Why Seniors in Arizona Prefer Desert Towns Over Big Cities

Arizona may be best known for its sprawling cities and bustling retirement communities, but many seniors are quietly choosing a different path; settling in the state’s smaller...

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8 Michigan Grocery Chains With Prices Locals Say Are Too High

In the bustling state of Michigan, grocery shopping can be an experience of sticker shock for many residents. Some local grocery chains are known for their high prices, leaving...

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6 Ways Texas BBQ Culture Builds Instant Friendships Among Strangers

Texas barbecue is more than just a culinary delight; it's a vibrant social culture that fosters friendships among strangers. The...

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9 Ohio Pizza Chains That Locals Secretly Complain About

Ohio, known for its rich culinary diversity, is home to numerous pizza chains that have sparked varied opinions among locals. While some of these establishments boast a loyal following,...

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The Psychology Behind Why New Yorkers Escape to the Adirondacks

The hustle and bustle of New York City can be overwhelming, making the serene landscapes of the Adirondacks an attractive getaway for many city dwellers.

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7 National Chains in New York State Where the Food Just Doesn’t Match the Price

Discover seven national restaurant chains with locations throughout New York State, where patrons often find the menu prices don't align with the food quality.

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7 Ways Small Towns in Ohio Survive Tourist Booms and Busts

Ohio's small towns have long been reliant on tourism as a significant economic driver. However, the cyclical nature of tourism presents unique challenges and opportunities, requiring...

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6 Florida Seafood Chains That Feel More Like Tourist Traps

Florida, known for its stunning coastlines and fresh seafood, is home to numerous seafood chains. However, not all of them live up to the local culinary standards.

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What It Takes to Keep Michigan’s Great Lakes Clean for Visitors

Michigan's Great Lakes, a natural wonder and vital resource, require extensive efforts to maintain their beauty and ecological health. This article explores eight crucial efforts...

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7 Local Music Festivals In Texas Small Towns

Texas is full of small towns where music isn’t just heard - it’s deeply felt. Beyond the big city spotlight, these charming communities host vibrant festivals that celebrate...

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9 Cultural Street Fairs In California This Season

California's streets come alive with vibrant cultural celebrations every year, showcasing the state's incredible diversity through food, music, art, and traditions. From the foggy...

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7 Summer Street Fairs In Florida

Summer in Florida brings out the best in street celebrations! From coastal towns to city centers, the Sunshine State transforms into a playground of food, music, and local culture...

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9 Weekend Escapes To Michigan’s Hidden Lakeside Towns

Michigan's shoreline stretches for thousands of miles, hiding dozens of charming lakeside towns that most travelers overlook. These peaceful havens offer a perfect weekend retreat...

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9 Hidden Hiking Trails In Washington State You Haven’t Tried

Washington State is a hiker's paradise with endless trails winding through emerald forests, alpine meadows, and rugged coastlines. Beyond the popular paths like Mount Rainier and...

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6 Michigan Diners Where Neon Signs Outshine the Menu

Michigan’s diners are often as memorable for their atmosphere as for the food. Across the state, glowing neon signs still light up highways and main streets, signaling places...

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7 Unique Ohio Grocery Chains You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

Ohio’s grocery landscape blends national retailers with smaller regional and independent chains that reflect local shopping habits. These Ohio-based chains often highlight fresh...

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9 Annoying Travel Mistakes First Timers Make in Washington State

Washington State attracts visitors with its blend of mountainous landscapes, lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and vibrant cities. For newcomers, the variety is appealing, but...

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How Colorado Locals Really Prepare for Tourist Season

Tourism is a major part of Colorado’s economy, drawing millions each year for skiing, hiking, national parks, and mountain towns. For locals, the arrival of visitors brings both...

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10 Spots in Washington State Where Sunsets Are the Main Event

Washington State’s varied landscapes, from ocean shores and mountain ridges to river valleys and urban waterfronts, make it a strong setting for memorable sunsets. The light...

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7 Texas Grocery Chains Where BBQ Counters Rival Real Smokehouses

In Texas, barbecue is as common at roadside smokehouses as it is inside grocery stores. Some supermarkets have turned their deli counters into full-fledged smokehouses, where brisket,...

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9 Vermont Small Towns That Smell Like Fresh-Baked Bread

Vermont’s small towns are recognized for their historic charm, close-knit communities, and a strong appreciation for local food traditions. Among these traditions, the making...

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8 Iconic Grocery Stores in Michigan That Locals Treat Like Landmarks

In Michigan, grocery stores are more than just places to shop, some have become community fixtures and even regional landmarks. They often reflect local history, carry specialty...

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