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90 Miles and a World Away · Day 10 · Departure
Phone alarm goes off violently. Mario, our casita owner, knocks softly on our side door, the aroma of Cuban coffee densely fills the air…time to pack our belongings and head for the airport. We were moving in fifth gear as we needed to get to the airport three hours prior to departure. I was nervous! …
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Finding Stillness at Ten Thousand Waves in New Mexico
For summer of 2024, my college bestie and I decided to drive cross country from San Diego to Anna Maria Island. As soon as we shared our road trip plans with friends, one name kept coming up—Ten Thousand Waves. “If you’re passing through Santa Fe, you have to treat yourself there,” they insisted. So, as…
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The Complete Guide to Beach Warning Flags on Anna Maria Island
Beach warning flags on Anna Maria Island play a critical role in keeping visitors safe while swimming in the Gulf. Understanding what each flag means can help you avoid dangerous conditions and enjoy the beach with confidence. From peaceful, low-hazard swim days to strong currents and temporary water closures, beach warning flags help you decide…
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90 Miles and a World Away · Day 9 · Havana
Our last day in Cuba! How did time escape me? We had tasks to accomplish this morning. We walked a few torn-up streets to Hotel Nacional to exchange a little more Euros for CUCs, and to purchase our Cuban cigars. Our research was unwavering in that if we wanted “authentic Cuban cigars” we needed to purchase…
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Ultimate Guide to Purchasing Fresh Seafood on Anna Maria Island
There’s something different about seafood on Anna Maria Island. Maybe it’s the salty air drifting in from the Gulf, the shrimp boats anchored just offshore, or the quiet rhythm of a working fishing village that still feels untouched by time. Here, “fresh” isn’t a marketing word — it often means caught that morning. Whether you’re…







