Experiencing 16 ships and one virtual ship in less than a week at the ASTA River Cruise Expo was a lot to absorb! Now that I’ve had time to settle back in at home, and gone through my copious notes, here are a few of my favorites.

The average age of river cruisers has dropped from the mid-60’s to mid-50’s over the last few years and I think millennial women will bring it down even lower. When I’m looking to travel, I look to build a trip that will let me see the world in a new way without sacrificing the conveniences (and safety) I crave, especially when I’m solo. It’s why I’m recommending river cruises to more and more women.

If you’re short on time in London but still want to indulge in a classic afternoon tea experience, Bustronome offers a clever twist: tea on wheels. The Bustronome London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour combines two quintessential British experiences—sightseeing and tea. Imagine sipping Vanilla Rooibos and nibbling finger sandwiches while Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and the London Eye glide past your window.

Planning your next girls trip and wondering if you can bring a bottle (or two) of your favorite wine aboard? You’re not alone! Whether you’re sailing with Disney, Celebrity, Norwegian, or Virgin Voyages, each cruise line has its own wine rules (some generous, others will add up).

This whole trip I fought the wind with hats, braids, and a whole lotta outtakes! My wardrobe was a mix of rentals and rewears.

Let’s get one thing straight: I’m not doing carry-on only. I want options. I want cute outfits. I want to be that girl with towel clips, maxi dresses, AND the perfect flats for every port. So if you’re headed to Europe, with a cruise through Spain, Portugal, and England, and you’re planning on checking a bag, here’s how to overpack intentionally.

When I tell people I’ve been to Antarctica, the reactions are usually a mix of awe, curiosity, and “Wait, how did you do that?” And honestly, it’s a fair question. Visiting the sixth continent (Australia was my seventh) isn’t as simple as hopping on Kayak and clicking “book.” With so many expedition ships, varying itineraries, and a wide range of price points (some that seem too good to be true - because they are), it’s a destination where you really want to get it right.