We left Rochester Hills before the clouds thickened, racing northeast toward Port Huron with a hopeful eye on the weather radar, skipping lunch so we could stay ahead of the storm cells. We made it into Port Huron with a with rain gear on and getting wetter. Get your rain gear on and come with us.

Jackson to Brighton — a brisk 48-mile ride of good roads, great company, and a well-earned lunch. We pedal through rolling countryside and tidy towns, pause for a family visit midroute, stops for photos or snacks. Lunch at a cozy diner—hearty, local fare—refuels us, then we ride into Brighton.

From Battle Creek, home of Kellogg’s, to Jackson, famous for its legendary penitentiaries, this road trip stitches together Americana, quirky art, and lakeside tranquility into one unforgettable adventure.

Come along while we do the peddling.

The journey back to Port Huron begins with a familiar mix of excitement and the comfortable hum of routine. We met an old friend for lunch, detours around construction stretched our patience, and the constant chorus of jackhammers and cones turned smooth plans into improvised route.

We have our first and only crash. It was abrupt, harmless in the big picture but jolting in the moment: a slipped wheel, a scattering of gear, and a pulse of adrenaline. We checked for broken bones and bike damage, dusted off pride and knees, and laughed when we realized the worst casualty was a dented ego and a scuffed pannier.

Once again we’re pedaling across another state, this time Michigan—starting in Port Huron on the shores of Lake Huron, taking the train and a short ride to South Haven on Lake Michigan before looping back to Port Huron six days later. Expect blue-water vistas, lighthouse stops, hearty Midwestern hospitality, and a mix of peaceful bike paths and rolling country roads as we chart our route across the mitten. Pack a sense of wonder and leave the pedaling to us—come along and enjoy Michigan, one scenic mile at a time.

Road Scholar was outstanding again — we’re already planning the next adventure, we just have to figure out where to go! Katherine was phenomenal, doing the work of three people to keep everything running smoothly and making the experience effortless. Huge thanks to Barbara for sharing her Merlin list; it made tracking and recording of the birds we saw. Can’t wait to see what Road Scholar has in store for our next trip!

Crocodile Man Tour — This did not disappoint. In just an hour I walked away with over 1,000 pictures and memories that’ll last a lifetime. Our guide’s knowledge and calm confidence made every close encounter thrilling but safe, letting us see crocodiles in natural behavior without feeling rushed. Perfect mix of action, storytelling, and photo opportunities— up-close views, and expert insight into how these ancient predators live. Ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants a hands-on, heart-pounding half-day adventure. Don’t forget extra memory cards.

A streak of color caught my eye through the bathroom window this morning — a tiny, unfamiliar silhouette darting between moss-draped branches. It was a new bird sighting.

Living at the edge of the cloud forest means every day can feel like a surprise package, and today’s surprise was a new bird sighting that made the steamy mirror and morning routine fade into the background.

Danger comes in many forms: venomous snakes that strike silently, loud birds that announce themselves, and rodent-sized animals as big as dogs. These species demand respect—some snakes are dangerously venomous, birds can dominate soundscapes, and large rodents thrive near people. Encounters can thrill or endanger; travel smart: stay informed, keep distance, and learn local first aid and wildlife rules. Adventure includes caution.

Birds burst into color—while the forest floor hid tiny, jewel-bright frogs that warned “don’t touch.” We strapped on helmets and life vests, gripped our paddles, and plunged into the river’s white water, spray washing the rainforest from our faces as birds wheeled above and the poisonous frogs reminded us how wild this place is.

Four hours on a winding bus, then a 90-minute boat ride because there are no roads to our lodge — and just like that, the real adventure begins. The bus hums along as landscapes shift from open fields to dense forest; conversations quiet, cameras click, and anticipation builds. The boat cuts through mirror-still water, shores thick with dangling vines and the occasional splash that hints at unseen life. By the time we step onto the lodge’s small dock, binoculars are already around necks and every rustle feels like a promise. This is where our birding and animal safari starts: dawn choruses, bright flashes of wings, and patient tracking through trails and waterways. Remote, immersive, and utterly alive — the journey there is part of the wild.

After many hours of planning and a long flight bring we make it to San José. The city greets you with warm, humid air, tree-lined boulevards, colorful buildings, and the hum of life beneath watchful volcanoes. It’s the gateway to Costa Rica’s wilds—cloud forests, banana plantations, hot springs, and beaches. Jet lag fades as pura vida takes over—our adventure begins.

On our last day of exploration we visited the Glenkinchie Distillery. For some this was the highlight of the week. By the end of the tasting there were many smiling faces by the end of the day. Come along.

We continue our exploration of Scotland with a visit to Berwick Law and the Tantallon Castle. Berwick Law was another climb, and Tantallon Castle a castle from the 14th century. The hike challenging and the castle was fun to explore. Come along.

We continue our exploration of Scotland with a visit to Glasgow. Our main goal was enjoy high tea at the Willow Tea Room. Along the way we enjoyed a couple museums. Come along.

We continue our exploration of Scotland with a visit of a chocolatier, more hiking and a whisky tasting… - your adventure awaits!

We continue our exploration of Edinburgh with the visit of the Rosslyn Chapel and a hike on the Pentland Hills – your adventure awaits!

We continue our exploration of Edinburgh with the National Gallery of Scotland. Join us and make memories in one of the world’s most captivating cities – your adventure awaits!

We continue our exploration of Edinburgh with the National Gallery of Scotland. Join us and make memories in one of the world’s most captivating cities – your adventure awaits!