EMRJ Travel

08/12/2026

Blog post up.

Gyeongju, South Korea, is often described as a “museum without walls.” Throughout the city, reminders of the ancient Silla Kingdom appear in parks, neighborhoods, mountains, and along ordinary roads. Two of the area’s most memorable sights are its pyramid-like royal tombs and the historic Bulg...

08/12/2026

Today was all about exploring the history of South Korea.

I know many people equate travel with food—and I agree that food is a big part of the experience. But today’s journey took me about an hour and a half from the cruise terminal to walk among ancient burial mounds and temples.

We stopped for lunch along the way, and as a traditionally picky eater, I’m proud to report that I enjoyed approximately 64% of the food!

History, culture, a little culinary adventure, and a lot of walking—the day was definitely a success.

Check out the brief blog post I just published to read more!

08/12/2026

Walking among the massive grassy burial mounds at Daereungwon Tomb Complex—also known as Tumuli Park—in Gyeongju, South Korea. These ancient tombs are the final resting places of Silla royalty and nobles, offering a fascinating glimpse into Korea’s rich history.

08/12/2026

This morning, we spent a couple of hours exploring a beautiful Buddhist temple and shrine. The complex is still in use today and is home to about 68 active monks.

The buildings are incredibly colorful, with intricate hand-painted details. According to our guide, the paint used hundreds of years ago contained substances that were poisonous to both humans and insects. While that certainly wouldn’t be allowed today, it helped protect the wood from insects and decay—which is one reason so much of it still survives.

08/12/2026

Proof of life—and outfit of the day—from South Korea! 🇰🇷 Still exploring, learning, and enjoying every moment of this incredible journey.

08/11/2026

Check out the first video blog from my trip to Japan! 🇯🇵

Experiencing Japan’s rich history and remarkable ancient buildings has been mesmerizing. In this short video, I visit Kyoto’s famous Golden and Silver Pavilions.

Come explore with me—and let me know which temple is your favorite!

Join me in Kyoto, Japan, as I visit two of the city’s most famous h...

08/11/2026

Europe by river in 2027 sounds even better with this offer!

Enjoy FREE AIR OR SAVE $1,800 PER PERSON on select 2027 Avalon Waterways Europe river cruises.*

Charming towns, iconic cities, scenic stretches of river—and only one unpacking along the way.

Offer ends October 12, 2026.

Message me at [email protected] to start planning.

*Terms and conditions apply.

08/11/2026

As we pulled into port in South Korea, I found myself thinking about how almost every place on this trip has been touched by war.

With Nagasaki as our next stop, I was also struck by just how far from home Americans were fighting during World War II. I’m not sure why I had never fully considered that before.

The more I travel, the more I realize that nearly every place I visit has endured conflict at some point in its history. Looking out at the port in South Korea, I couldn’t help but wonder: What lasting impact have all those wars had on a nation’s collective soul?

08/11/2026

Discover the charm behind Vienna's coffee house culture — where every cup of coffee comes with a side of history and mouthwatering pastries. Dive into our latest blog to learn how Vienna’s bakery traditions became an UNESCO-recognized cultural experience. Read more: https://wix.to/cbqI5Fh

Experience Vienna's famous coffee house culture and dive into a world of aromatic coffee and fluffy Viennese pastries. UNESCO has awarded Vienna's coffee house culture the status of "Intangible Cultural Heritage", because it offers much more than just drinking coffee. It's a feeling. It's an experie...

08/11/2026

Hey LEGO my Lego friends and I are having a great time on the Celebrity Cruises to Japan. I travel everywhere with Lego man and Lego lady. They help me break the ice. Check out my recent video