What happens when you put forty lively travelers — most of them seasoned adventurers 50 and above — on a bus bound for New York City? You get seven days of laughter, surprises, shopping bags, and memories that shine brighter than the Times Square lights!

We kicked things off rolling through Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia — snacks in hand and trivia games underway. (Shoutout to our travel trivia champs 🏆🙌 — bragging rights well earned!) By the time we hit our first dinner stop and watched The Bucket List on the bus, it was clear: this wasn’t just another road trip. It was the start of something unforgettable.

And let me tell you — nothing bonded us faster than our surprise pit stop at Buc-ee’s 🦫🥤. For some, it was their very first time experiencing the beaver wonderland of oversized snacks, sparkling clean bathrooms, and souvenirs galore. The cheering could’ve convinced anyone we’d already hit Times Square.

Of course, the real excitement came after two days on the road, when the New York skyline finally appeared. Goosebumps, camera phones snapping, and that collective “WOW” moment reminded us why they call it the city where dreams are made.

We wasted no time diving into the magic. Our first stop was Central Park, where we walked among the trees, soaking in the calm tucked inside the world’s busiest city. From there, we made our way to the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, crossing like true New Yorkers and stopping every few feet for those can’t-miss skyline photos.

Our adventure unfolded quickly from there — soaring high at the One World Observatory 🌎, reflecting at the 9/11 Memorial 🕊️, wandering Chinatown, and celebrating the sights, sounds, and food of a street festival in Little Italy. And let me tell you, this group did a lot of eating and shopping. From shrimp feasts at Bubba Gump to barbecue platters at Dallas BBQ, plus shopping at Macy’s and the National Harbor Outlets, we gave both our appetites and our wallets a serious workout! 🛍️🍤🍗

For our Gilded Age fans, strolling past St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, and Millionaire’s Row felt like stepping right into their favorite show. Their excitement was contagious, turning sightseeing into an impromptu fan club moment.

The highlight of our time in New York, though, was visiting the Statue of Liberty 🗽 and Ellis Island. Standing beneath Lady Liberty was powerful — a symbol of freedom, resilience, and new beginnings. Walking through Ellis Island reminded us how important it is to understand why people came to America. Generations of immigrants arrived seeking freedom, safety, opportunity, and the chance to build a better life for their families. And those same hopes are what continue to bring people here today.

It was a moving reminder that America is truly a melting pot — built on countless stories of hope, hardship, sacrifice, and determination. Learning those stories deepens our appreciation for the diverse roots that make this nation what it is.

Through it all, two people made this trip extra special: our amazing tour guide, Zoe, and our incredible driver, Jose. Zoe was more than a guide — she was a true historian. She had a way of weaving stories that made the past come alive, connecting the sights we saw with the people and events that shaped them. Her knowledge brought depth to every stop, and her kindness made every single person feel included. We didn’t just see New York; we experienced it, thanks to Zoe.

And Jose — what a rock star behind the wheel! Maneuvering a big motorcoach through busy highways and even busier New York streets is no small feat, but he did it with skill, patience, and a smile. He kept us safe, on time, and comfortable the entire way. More than that, he became part of our family — laughing with us, joking with us, and making sure every stop went off without a hitch. We couldn’t have asked for a better driver.

On the way home, we still weren’t done. The National Harbor Tanger Outlets gave us shopping, food, and even a little casino time 🎰. Back on the bus, The Blind Side and Forrest Gump carried us through the miles, filling the aisles with laughter, quotes, and a few happy tears. “Life really is like a box of chocolates” — and this trip gave us the sweetest memories.

By the time we rolled back into Sweet Home Alabama 🎶💜 on Day 7, the bus was quieter — part tired, part reflective — but every smile told the story of a week well spent. We came home with more than shopping bags and photos — we came home with friendships, laughter, and memories that will stay with us for a lifetime.

And for me, that’s the greatest reward of all. I absolutely love traveling with my clients — especially those 50 and above who know how precious each moment is. Watching the joy on their faces as they experience something new, laugh a little louder, or simply take in a breathtaking view is why I do what I do. There’s nothing like seeing people live life to the fullest, creating memories that will be talked about for years to come.

✨ That’s the magic of bus travel. ✨ You don’t just see the sights — you laugh together, eat together, and make memories in every mile.

The moment I set foot on Ghanaian soil, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging. It was as if the land itself whispered, “Welcome home.” And from that very first greeting, the warmth of the people embraced me. Ghanaians have a way of making you feel seen, heard, and valued. Their smiles are genuine, their hospitality unmatched. Every handshake, every conversation, every shared laugh felt like reconnecting with a long-lost family.

The culture is alive in every corner—in the colors of the kente cloth, in the rhythm of the drums that echo through the streets, in the intricate art and timeless traditions passed lovingly from generation to generation. There’s an energy in Ghana that’s hard to put into words. It makes you want to dance, to celebrate, to live fully in each moment.

And then there’s the food. Oh, the food! Every meal felt like a warm embrace. From the spicy, flavorful jollof rice to the comforting waakye, from fresh-caught tilapia grilled to perfection to the sweet, juicy pineapples that taste like sunshine—every bite told a story of love, tradition, and pride. Sitting down to eat in Ghana isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about connection. It’s about sharing, about community, about savoring not just the food but the people and the stories that come with it.

But beyond the beauty, the culture, and the flavors, what touched me the most was the rhythm of life in Ghana. There’s a slower pace, a sense of presence that invites you to pause, breathe, and truly feel each moment. Watching children play in the streets, hearing the call to prayer in the distance, seeing elders sit together and share wisdom—it all reminded me that life is meant to be lived with intention and gratitude. Ghana has a way of stripping away the noise and busyness of the world and bringing you back to what truly matters: connection, heritage, and heart.

Yet, the most profound part of my journey was standing in the places where history still lingers heavy in the air. Visiting Cape Coast and Elmina castles was an emotional, almost sacred experience. Walking through those dungeons where my ancestors were once held, feeling the chill of the stone walls, hearing the echoes of their pain and resilience—it’s something I will carry with me forever. I cried. I stood in silence. I prayed. In those moments, I wasn’t just a visitor. I was a witness. I was a descendant. I felt the weight of their suffering, but also the strength of their spirit. It was humbling and deeply healing.

And this—this—is why I believe that everyone needs to experience Ghana at least once in their lifetime. Especially our young people. At a time when there are efforts to erase, distort, or downplay our history, there is nothing more powerful than standing on the very ground where our story began. No textbook can replace the feeling of walking through those castles. No classroom can capture the spirit you feel when you connect with your roots face to face.

Our young people need to see this, to feel this, to know where they come from—not just to honor the pain, but to celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of our ancestors. Ghana reminds us that we are more than what history books say. We are survivors. We are builders. We are dreamers. And we are deeply connected to a rich and enduring heritage.

Both of my trips to Ghana left me transformed. I returned home each time feeling more grounded, more centered, more aware of who I am and where I come from. Ghana has a way of shifting something deep inside you—in the best way. It teaches you through its history, its people, its landscapes, and its traditions. It holds a mirror up to your soul and reminds you of your strength, your beauty, and your place in the world.

That’s why Ghana will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a place that doesn’t just welcome you—it embraces you fully. It doesn’t just teach you—it transforms you. And even now, long after my visits, I carry a piece of Ghana with me wherever I go.

If you ever feel called to visit, I can only say: open your heart, take your time, and let Ghana speak to your spirit. Because once it does, you’ll never be the same—and that’s a beautiful thing.