The Category

Lorraine Black

Hola! Welcome to the Mexico 🇲🇽 & Canada 🇨🇦 Travel Blogs!

Bienvenidos! Welcome!

Here you will see all things Mexico & Canada! 

Guides for destinations and travelling in Mexico & Canada, hotel reviews, facts about Mexico and Canada.

You will read interesting reviews, tips and recommendations to help make your travels the most fun and smooth as possible!

Fun Weekend Trips near Niagara Falls

Fun Weekend Trips Near Niagara Falls

Looking to extend your vacation outside of Niagara Falls? Maybe you want to do something a bit different or see somewhere new. I have some fun weekend trip ideas for you. This is my list of fun weekend trips near Niagara Falls!

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Butterfly Sanctuary in Puerto Vallarta - Mariposario Jardin Magico

Butterfly Sanctuary in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is already such a beautiful place, to add to that there is even a butterfly sanctuary that is called Mariposario Jardin Magico.  That translates to Magical Butterfly Garden. What a nice name! I am going to share everything that you need to know about visiting the Butterfly sanctuary in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

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Complete Guide to Puerto Vallarta

Complete Guide to Puerto Vallarta

Here your questions will be answered such as “What’s it like in Puerto Vallarta?” or “What is Puerto Vallarta known for?” or “why should I visit Puerto Vallarta?”
This is coming from me, someone who has lived in Puerto Vallarta and loves it, here is your complete guide to beautiful Puerto Vallarta, Mexico!

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Best Areas to Visit in Hamilton, Ontario

Best Areas To Visit in Hamilton, Ontario

Hamilton, Ontario in Canada is so much more that the factories you see as you drive by on the highway! Hamilton is such a big city with so many areas to visit! I am going to share with you my tips on the best areas to visit in Hamilton, Ontario!! This is not about a specific place such as Dundurn Castle or the HMCS Haida, instead it’s about areas or streets to mingle on and places to hang out in Hamilton.

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Cancun to Valladolid on the Mayan Train

Cancun to Valladolid on the Mayan Train

I was so excited to check out the all-new Mayan train that I had to experience it!
I am going to share my experience and everything that you need to know about getting from Cancun to Valladolid on the Mayan Train.

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Best Things to do in Valladolid, Mexico

Best Things to do in Valladolid, Mexico!

If you have never been to Valladolid, you are missing out!
It is a Pueblo Magico in Mexico that is full of charm, authenticity, and history.
Here I am going to share some of the best things to do in Valladolid, Mexico.

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Guide to Choosing Where to Travel

Choosing Where To Travel

Choosing your next vacation or travel destination can sometimes feel overwhelming with so many beautiful places to see around the world!  Maybe you’re asking yourself ‘How do I decide where to travel?’ Don’t get travel decision paralysis, answer this questionnaire to help you with choosing where to travel next.

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Romantic Niagara Falls Activities

Romantic Niagara Falls Activities

Looking for romance in Niagara Falls? You got it! No more struggling to come up with romantic ideas! Just follow along and plan it all out here! This blog is full of romantic Niagara Falls activities!

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Cave Restaurant in Playa Del Carmen

Cave Restaurant Alux- Playa Del Carmen

Have you ever eaten in a cave restaurant? It is an actual restaurant inside of a cave. This is actually a cenote and a cave that you can dine in with a full restaurant inside! If you have never been to Alux Restaurant and Lounge, I’m going to tell you everything that you need to know before you go!

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Pretty Places in Canada

Pretty Places in Canada

There are so many pretty places in Canada! I’m going to give you some Canadian travel inspiration with some breathtaking landscapes and picturesque views that make up the beauty of Canada. Canada is rich in captivating destinations.  Whether you like quaint towns, beautiful bright cities, or the stillness of nature, Canada has it all. Canada’s diverse beauty invites you to travel from sea to sea!  Join me as I explore some of the pretty places in Canada.

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Mariachi Songs to Request travel blog

Mariachi Songs To Request

Do you love mariachi music as much as I do? The horns, harp, guitars, trumpets, accordians, playing in unison as the mariachis wear matching charro outfits and sombreros!
The mariachis approach your table and ask which song you want to request…You don’t know the names of any songs, so you say La Bamba.
Even though you really enjoy the music, you may not know which songs to request. 

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Creating your Bucket List Blog title person writing

Creating your Bucket List

As we’re coming to the end of another year, maybe it’s making you think about your life and what you want to accomplish in the future.
Creating your bucket list is way to focus on these goals. I am going to share some tips with you about creating your own bucket list.  I will also talk about why it’s importance to have a bucket list.

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Dundas Christmas Festival - Dickens of a Christmas

Dundas Christmas Festival!

A Dickens of a Christmas. That is the name of the Dundas Christmas Festival.

It’s a cute town that has a feel-good Christmas vibe like one of those Hallmark movies!
Actually it really is! More on that later… 
I am going to share all about the yearly tradition of the Dundas Dickens of A Christmas Festival.

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Toronto Distillery District Winter Village

Toronto Distillery district Winter Village

Every year there is a great tradition in Toronto that happens at the Toronto Distillery District. It’s a Christmas market and so much more! It’s called the Distillery District Winter Village.
Here I am going to share everything that you need to know about the Toronto Distillery District Winter Village.

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Niagara Falls Winter Festival Of Lights

Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls

Every year Niagara Falls has a great light show that you can walk through.

This Winter Festival of Lights is now in its 41st year as of 2023-2024.

Even though it may be cold, I feel like it’s worth checking out!

It is actually Canada’s largest illuminated festival!

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Ven A La Luz Tulum Guide

Ven A La Luz Tulum Guide

Here is everything that you want to know about visiting the Ven A La Luz large wooden sculpture!
So you’ve seen these really epic pictures on Instagram of people posing with this amazing huge wooden statue of a woman…
… Well I’m hear to answer all your questions…
Here is your Guide to the Ven a La Luz in Tulum to answer all of your questions and help make your experience and photos awesome!

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Best Restaurants in Downtown Tulum

Best Downtown Tulum Restaurants

If you’re visiting Tulum and you’re staying downtown, you will see that there’s a lot going on in the area.
Tulum has a fun downtown area! On Avenida Tulum there are some great hotels, bars, shops, and, of course, some great restaurants!
Here are some of the best downtown Tulum restaurants.

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Ultimate Guide to Long Bus Trips in Mexico

Ultimate Guide to Long Bus Trips in Mexico

Are you wondering what bus travel in Mexico is like?
Sometimes the bus is a much better deal than a flight, but is it worth it to take the bus in Mexico rather than fly?

Well, here is your ultimate guide to long bus trips in Mexico.

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How to leave the airport quickly!

How to Leave the airport quickly!

Your plane has finally arrived and you can’t wait to get to your final destination spot! You feel so excited, but you have to get through airport security, baggage check, immigration, etc. before you can start enjoying.
Here is my guide on how to leave the airport quickly.

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Fun things to do in Playa Del Carmen

Fun Things To Do In Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen is a beautiful place to enjoy in Mexico! It’s visited by people from around the world every year!  It’s also a good place to visit if you’re looking for a party and good times! 
I am going to share some fun things to do in Playa Del Carmen to help make your trip even more awesome!

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How to Get to Niagara Falls from Toronto

How to Get to Niagara Falls from Toronto

So many people ask the question of how to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto. Niagara Falls is such an awesome place to visit that people from around the world come to visit it everyday!There are several options for you to get to Niagara Falls from Toronto, so depending on if you’re going in a group, by car of public transportation, let’s take a look at how you can get to Niagara Falls from Toronto.

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What to pack for a Great Weekend Away blog with pictures of people packing and going away

What to Pack for a Great Weekend away

If you want to make your weekend getaway great, check this out my ideas, items and lists of what to pack for a great weekend away!
Now, this is not the type of blog that’s going to tell you how many pairs of socks to pack, it’s more about making sure you have fun and are comfortable. 
My goal is help you with what to pack for a GREAT weekend away!

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Things to do the day before a vacation blog post

Things to do the day before a vacation

Do you want your vacation to be stress free and the best vacation ever?
To avoid as many issues that could happen as possible, I recommend following this checklist.
Here is my checklist of things to do the day before your vacation.

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Fun Spontaneous photos of day trips from Toronto

Fun Spontaneous Day trips from Toronto

Looking to get out of the busy city and do something a bit different or see somewhere new?
I have some fun last minute ideas for you.
This is my list of fun spontaneous day trips from Toronto here.

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Picture of someone working online while travelling.

How To Work Online While Travelling

As many of you know, besides being a travel blogger, I am also an English teacher.  There are definitely some supplies, strategies and tips that help me to be successful working online as I travel. Whether you want to be a full-time digital nomad, or just be able to go away for a month and keep up with your work, this is my guide on how to work online while travelling.

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How to Celebrate Mexican Independence Day

How to Celebrate Mexican Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day is the ultimate day to celebrate Mexico and Mexican culture.
It’s a day to share Mexican pride and all traditional Mexican things.
Here I am going to share all about how to celebrate Mexican Independence Day.

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Fun Fall Activities in Ontario

Fun Fall Activities in Ontario

Fall is such a wonderful time of year!
There are so many classically Canadian activities to do in the fall!
My plan is to inspire you to enjoy some of these fun fall activities in Ontario, Canada!

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Interesting Facts About Mexico

Interesting Facts About Mexico

As Mexico is the 13th largest country in the world, it is very diverse.
Mexico is so much more than beaches and tacos.
Here I am going to share a list of interesting facts about Mexico with you.

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Self-care while travelling blog cover photo

Self-care While Travelling

It can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be. I am going to share some tips that I either use or recommend to other to maintain self-care when travelling.
If your physical, emotional, spiritual or mental health is not well, it can make it challenging to enjoy your travels to their fullest.
I am going to cover different aspects of self and ways to keep up self-care while you’re travelling.

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16 Epic Things to do in Niagara Falls

16 Epic Things To Do in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is pretty epic itself! There are so many amazing, interesting, and fun things to do there!
Here is my list of the most Epic activities to do in Niagara Falls, Canada.
As there are so many amazing things to do in Niagara Falls, this is part 1 of this series of epic activities in Niagara Falls.

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Pictures of the best ways to keep in touch while travelling

Best Ways to Keep in Contact While Travelling

Whether you’re travelling with someone, or you’re a solo traveller, there are always family and/or friends that we want to keep in touch with. 
Furthermore, they want to hear from us, know that we’re okay, and where we are in the world. In this blog, I’m going to explore different heartwarming ways to keep in contact with your family and friends while you’re off exploring the world!

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3rd Largest Monolith in the World

3rd Largest Monolith in the world!

The 3rd largest monolith in the world is in Mexico! Bernal, Querataro, Mexico, to be specific. Here you will learn everything you need to know about this monolith, including information to help you climb it safely, and how to prepare.

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Picture of woman with carry on bags and an airplane

Ultimate Carry on Packing Tips

Don’t you want to be as comfortable as possible as you travel?  I know I do…
That’s why I made this list of carry on packing tips! They include what to put in your carry on luggage and great recommendations for carry on luggage too! Having a good carry on bag with the right things in it can really make your travels that much more comfortable!

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15 tips to sleep better in your hotel- travel blog

15 Tips to Sleep Better at your Hotel

This is my guide of 15 ways to sleep well at your hotel.  Which number do you think helps the most? Let me know!
Maybe you’re exhausted from your travels or a night out, or you have to get up super early the next day…
Whatever the reason, sometimes it’s especially important to get a good night sleep.

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Guide to Visiting Bernal

Guide to Visiting Bernal, Mexico

Are you going to visit Bernal, Mexico?
This is your guide to visting Bernal! Bernal is located in Queretaro, Mexico.
I will be including things to know before you, things to do and more important details to help you have an amazing time in Bernal, Mexico!

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Hotel Vista Oceana

Sayulita Beach side hotel review

If you’re going to Sayulita, the beachfront is definitely the place to be!!
This is a hotel review of a beachfront hotel that I stayed at in Sayulita.
If you’re not sure where Sayulita is, it’s in the state of Nayarit, Mexico.

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Picture of traveller with beach and city view

Tips To Not Get Lost While Travelling

It’s so exciting to explore somewhere new, but it can come with some complications.
I don’t know about you, but for me, I want to avoid as many problems as possible while travelling!
Here are some tips to not get lost while you’re travelling.

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Awesome Mariachi Restaurant in Puerto Vallarta

Awesome Mariachi Restaurant in Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for a guaranteed-to-see-mariachi-place, this is it!
Casa Guadalajara Bar & Grill is the up and coming mariachi restaurant in Puerto Vallarta!
It’s a fairly new place, so I’m going to share all the details here!
Mariachis EVERYDAY! Yep, everyday!

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Complete Guide to Enjoy Mariachi in Puerto Vallarta

Complete Guide to Enjoy Mariachis in Puerto Vallarta!

When you think Mexican music-most people think mariachi music! It’s a Mexican tradition!
It has such an authentic, beautiful and fun vibe!
If you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta, here is a complete guide for enjoying and finding mariachi bands in Puerto Vallarta!

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The Best Natural Attractions in Ontario

The Best Natural Attractions in Ontario

Ontario, Canada has so much diverse natural beauty!
There are so many natural attractions that are worth visiting!
There are even 4 UNESCO sites in Ontario!
I am going to share some of the best natural attractions in Ontario here!

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How to prepare for a long trip blog photo

How To Be Prepared for a Long Trip

The way you prepare for a long trip can be a little bit different than a week long vacation. There are some different ways or things to pack if you’re headed on a trip that’s more than your average week long vacation. So, here are my tips on how to be prepared for a long trip.

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21 reasons why travel is important

21 Reasons that Travel is Important!

Did you know that travel is good for you?
Yep! It Is!  There are many reasons why it’s valuable.
Here, I’m going to share 21 reasons why travel is important!
Which number is the most important for you? Maybe it’s 4, 7 or 21…
Let’s find out!

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A Guide to Pueblos Magicos in Mexico

Guide to Pueblos Magicos in Mexico

If you have not heard about Pueblos Magicos (translation – Magical Towns) in Mexico you are missing out!!!
If you’re looking for a new Mexican destination to visit, I highly recommend choosing a Pueblo Magico!
I am going to share with you why I think Pueblos Magicos are so awesome, and why I think you will enjoy visiting them!

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Beaches in Huatulco

Beaches in Huatulco!

Looking for some beach time in Huatulco? Maybe you’re in Huatulco now, or you’re headed there.
There were 2 beaches that I really enjoyed while I was in Huatulco, Mexico.  I  would like to share these beaches with you!

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Hotel Bahia Huatulco

Huatulco Hotel Review

If you’re planning a trip to Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico, check this out – Hotel Bahia Huatulco!

Location, cleanliness, hotel decor & atmosphere and amenities and perks. These are some factors that I think are important, what about you?  I really enjoyed my time at Hotel Bahia Huatulco, so I want to share it with you!

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Release a Baby Sea Turtle

Release a Baby Sea Turtle

This seemed like such an amazing experience that I couldn’t pass up!

I love turtles 🐢  and watching them go free into the ocean… How beautiful! 🥰

It was one of the most beautiful experiences ever!! I loved it!!

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Must-Do Things in Puerto Escondido

Must-Do things in Puerto Escondido!

Here is my list of the must-see and must-do things in Puerto Escondido to help make your trip the best it can be!

I hope you have an amazing time and experience the most that you can while you’re in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico! 🙂

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Best Mexico Travel Tips (Read Before You Go)

Best Mexico Travel Tips! (Read Before You Go)

First time travelling to Mexico? …Or maybe you haven’t been in a long time!

Well, check out these top tips. 

I have travelled in many different states of Mexico, and I have learned as I went. So,  I’m going to share my top tips with you to help you have an even more amazing time in Mexico!

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Ultimate Guide to the Puerto Vallarta Boardwalk

Ultimate Guide to Puerto Vallarta Boardwalk

The Puerto Vallarta boardwalk is awesome!! I love it and I want to share it with you! So, here is my ultimate guide to enjoying and exploring the malecon in Puerto Vallarta.

The word in Spanish for the boardwalk is the ‘malecon’.

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Curve in the road

Unexpected Road Trip Stops

Do you love road trips as much as we do?
My husband and I love them!! You’re on the road, tunes are flowing, coasting along scenic roads, discovering new places… Then, something stops you… possibly even in the middle of the road.  It could be unavoidable, or something …

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covers of 2 travel journals by Open Doors With Words

19 Ways to Use a Travel Journal

Maybe you use travel journals all the time…
Maybe you’ve haven’t taken advantage of them yet…
Did you know that travel journals have so many benefits?
Let’s look at some of the way that travel journals can benefit you.
As we look at the benefits, you will be able to figure out which type of travel journal is best for you.

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Ways to Make Money and Travel

Ways to Make Money & Travel

There are many ways that you can still travel and make some money.  In some cases you can have your accommodations and/or food paid for as well!

Wouldn’t that be great! No cooking, no dishes, and a new wonderful location to explore!

Even if you do have to cook and clean, you are still exploring a new place and enjoying!

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map with pushpin on it

Yearly Recap & Looking Ahead!

As this is my last blog of the year, I am using it as a time to reflect on this year and to connect!

More importantly, I am using it as an opportunity to chat with you!

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Restaurant in a Cave in Mexico

Restaurant in a Cave – Mexico

So we were walking by some mountains and hills when I saw an arched-opening in the mountain. 
Naturally, I walked up to it because I wanted to see what was inside!

To say that I was surprised is an understatement!
It was actually a cave, and when I looked inside, I couldn’t believe it!

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Niagara Falls - Clifton Hill Attractions

Niagara Falls- Clifton Hill Attractions

Heading to Niagara Falls to see the Clifton Hill Attractions? When you look at the pictures, or maybe you went before there are so many attractions on Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls.  It can be hard to figure out which ones to go to.  
I am going to highlight some of the most interesting and unique attractions on Clifton Hill in Niagara Falls, Canada. 

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Road Trip Near Toronto travel blog

Road trip near Toronto

It’s a beautiful fall day, the leaves are so vibrant and bright… you want to drive around and enjoy the weather and some nice scenery for the day… but where?

I have an idea that I think you’re going to love!

You can get away from the city, and enjoy winding country roads with beautiful nature and cool stops along the way!

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17 Uses for a Sarong While Travelling

17 Ways to Use a Sarong while travelling

I have a list of packing essentials that I always bring no matter where I am travelling.

A sarong is definitely on that essentials list!

Why a sarong you’re wondering? Well, there are so many reasons why!

Sometimes I even pack 2 sarongs!

Check out these 17 uses for a sarong while you’re travelling.

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Fall Colours in Southern, Ontario

Fall Colours in Southern Ontario, Canada

Have you see the fall in Southern Ontario, Canada?

So, I have had some of my readers ask about the fall time in Canada.
The trees, the colours, the leaves… if you’ve never experienced it before- check this out! It’s so amazing – the leaves look like they are painted I’ve heard some people say before.

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Corn Maze and Fall Farm in Ontario

Corn Maze & Fall Farm in Ontario

Have you ever been to a corn maze? Are you looking to go to a corn maze in Southern Ontario, Canada?

This is definitely a fall tradition for many in Canada, that along with going to a pumpkin patch!  All that fall farm fun stuff!

Well, I have a place for you!

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Beachfront Hotel in Puerto Vallarta

Beachfront Hotel in Puerto Vallarta

Are you trying to decide where to stay for your vacation in Puerto Vallarta? You know you want a beachfront hotel, but you’re not sure which one…

If your checklist includes: great location by the beach, clean, safe, and very nice, then I have the perfect place for you!

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The 7 Best Casual Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

The 7 Best Casual Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta

Are you looking for some restaurants in Puerto Vallarta where you don’t need to get all dressed up? Well, you are in luck, there are so many great restaurants in Puerto Vallarta!!

…and the good news, many of them don’t have a formal dress code.  A

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Longest Suspension Bridge in the World

Longest Suspension Bridge in the World!

Who wants to cross the longest suspension bridge in the world??

If you are all about that type of adventure, I bet you’re wondering where it is…

Well, I crossed it! I think I held my breathe for half of it, the first time, but I crossed it!  Twice!!

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8 Free things to do in Puerto Vallarta

8 FREE things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Are you planning your vacation to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico?

Vacations can be expensive, food, drinks, excursions, souvenirs, gifts… I could go on and on…

Looking for some FREE things to do while in Puerto Vallarta?? Looking to save some cash while vacationing in Mexico??

I am going to share 8 free things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Windsor, Ontario

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Windsor

Are you looking for a weekend getaway?

I have the perfect place for you!

It’s by the water, relaxed, fun, and very beautiful!

It’s Windsor! I bet you are asking why Windsor? Maybe you don’t know too much about Windsor…

Before the weekend that my husband and I spent there, we didn’t know too much about it either.

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How my Travel adventures started

How my travel adventures began!

Hello! My name is Lorraine Black. I am an Indigenous Canadian travel blogger and English teacher. 🇨🇦

So, I have decided to start a travel blog.

Why? Well, many reasons…

My husband and I love road trips, adventuring, vacations, living in different places, and so much more!

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