Blog

    Wallabies outside in San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

    25 Insider Tips for Visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (2026)

    I’ve spent years exploring the Safari Park with my family and know the best ways to navigate its 1,800 acres in every season. My insider tips cover tickets and tours to kid-friendly breaks and animal encounters, so you can enjoy the park like a pro.

    The marble lobby check in experience.

    St. Anthony Hotel San Antonio Review & How to Book VIP

    After an unexpected visit, I found The St. Anthony to be a solid historic luxury hotel choice at a good price and with Marriott STARS VIP benefits.

    The lovely bed bed with gold headboard and crisp white sheets.

    The Marlton Hotel NYC Review: A Greenwich Village Gem + Our Perks

    I finally stayed at The Marlton Hotel in Greenwich Village, checking in with the same VIP benefits I extend to clients: upgrades, late checkout, and daily credits. Here’s what the petite rooms, cozy lobby, and buzzing Chez Nous dining scene are really like.

    San Diego Zoo Safari Park Caravan Safari

    San Diego Zoo Safari Park Paid Safaris (Tours): Are They Worth The Upgrade?

    As a longtime Safari Park member, I love the free Africa Tram and feel that you don’t need a paid safari to have a great visit. But for families who want a deeper, more hands-on experience, our clients consistently say these tours are a highlight of their San Diego trip. Here’s what to know before you book.

    My king bed and leather headboard in the Grand Deluxe King.

    Soho Grand Hotel NYC Review: My Stay in a SoHo Icon & How to Book with VIP Perks

    The Soho Grand is a downtown icon, but is it the right fit for your NYC trip? My review breaks down the rooms, the scene, who this hotel is a fit for and how to book with valuable VIP privileges.

    The Mercer Hotel in New York City's brick exterior.

    The Mercer Hotel NYC Review: My SoHo Loft Stay & How to Book VIP

    I spent a week at The Mercer Hotel in NYC’s Soho. See what I liked and things you should know. Book through us to get our exclusive benefits like daily breakfast for two and hotel credits.

    Sea lions hanging out at La Jolla Cove as shot with a SONY a7r ii mirrorless camera.

    25 Best Free Things to Do in San Diego with Kids

    A curated list of no-cost experiences locals enjoy and families of all travel styles include in their San Diego itineraries.

    San Diego Seal Tours bus boat waits for guests at Seaport Village

    20 Best San Diego Sightseeing Tours for Kids & Teens

    You won’t find endless tour options for families in San Diego—but the really fun ones? They’re all right here.

    Cabana Fire Pit Terrace rooms at Hotel del Coronado.

    9 Best Coronado Island Hotels in San Diego Reviewed

    I share the most popular Coronado Island hotels based on personal stays, reader and client feedback, and tips from our on-property contacts.

    Kids float in innner tubes on the Four Seasons Punta Mita lazy river.

    Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita Review: Insider’s Guide + Booking Advice

    A firsthand guide to Four Seasons Punta Mita—where to stay, what to expect, and how to book with exclusive benefits through a trusted Four Seasons advisor.

    Colorful sculpture in front of Tidelands Park playground in Coronado Island.

    Coronado Island with Kids: Detailed Stay & Play Family Planning Guide

    I’m a San Diego mom and travel advisor who books families into Coronado Island hotels. I cover everything you need to know, including family-friendly beaches and activities, transportation, dining, and where to stay.

    Katie's daughter swings on a plays structure at Kate Sessions Park in San Diego.

    Our Family Guide to San Diego Parks with Playgrounds

    San Diego has no shortage of sunshine—and these playgrounds make the most of it. Explore our favorite parks with epic views, splash pads, ziplines, and plenty of space for kids to climb, run, and play.