All Posts - Page 2 of 6 - Sojourns with Sue

Motel sign decor at Carpinteria Beach Cottages

Carpinteria Beach Cottages – My Charming 31-Night Stay

Have you ever dreamed of spending a full month by the California coast — soaking up the sunshine, exploring a charming walkable beach town, and truly settling into “slow travel” life?…

Carpinteria | California

The Best Restaurants in Carpinteria according to my stomach

The next time you drive down California’s glorious coast, be sure to stop in at Santa Barbara’s less glamorous but equally beautiful little sister, Carpinteria! This small city of @15,000 is…

A picturesque view of colorful houses perched on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Riomaggiore, one of the Cinque Terre villages.

Cinque Terre | Europe | Italy

Cinque Terre in One Day: A Relaxed, Fun Itinerary from a First-Time Visitor

You’re planning out your European vacation, then realize you’ve only allotted one day for a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Cinque Terre! What will you do? What WILL you…

A serene beach scene in Monterosso al Mare, featuring sun umbrellas and lounge chairs facing the tranquil waters.

Cinque Terre | Europe | Italy

Best Place to Stay in Cinque Terre for Beach Lovers: Hotel Baia Review

Planning a beachy escape to Cinque Terre? Discover why Monterosso al Mare is the best place to stay for sea views, sand, and charm—plus my full Hotel Baia review.

A woman relaxing in a deck chair by the water near Malibu Pier, under a red and white beach umbrella. She’s wearing a cozy sweater and jeans, enjoying the sunny day with the pier extending over the calm ocean in the background. The scene captures a laid-back, beachside vibe with rocks and gentle waves along the shore.

United States | California | Malibu

A Fab Afternoon in Malibu California

If you find yourself in LA or Santa Barbara and want to take a little drive along the PCH (i.e., Pacific Coast Highway or Highway 1), here is my recommendation for…

A scenic view of Florence with warm sunlight illuminating historical buildings and the iconic dome of the Florence Cathedral, symbolizing the city’s charm.

Europe | Florence | Italy

My First Time in Florence: What I Loved, Regretted, and Would Do Differently

Florence Italy was a place I’d always dreamed of visiting. Largely because of my obsession with the movie, “A Room With A View“. I finally made it there recently, and I…

United States | Trains | Travel Modes

Planning Your California Zephyr Experience: Best Stops and Cool Hotels

Plan your ultimate California Zephyr train trip from San Francisco to Chicago with this detailed stop-by-stop guide. Discover top attractions, best hotels, and travel tips for every stop on Amtrak’s most scenic route.

A bright and sunny view of Stanford University's iconic Hoover Tower, standing tall with its red-tiled dome amidst lush green trees and a wide grassy lawn in the foreground. People are casually walking and sitting on the lawn, enjoying the clear blue sky and open space.

United States | California | Silicon Valley

What to Do in Palo Alto: A Local’s Guide for Solo Female Travelers

I’ve lived in the Silicon Valley area my whole life, so trust me, I know Palo Alto isn’t just for hoodie-wearing tech bros and Teslas on every corner. (Though to be…

Solo Travel Essentials

Solo Female Travel Safety Tips & Confidence Hacks

Traveling on your own, especially as a woman, can feel a bit daunting. Over my years of solo traveling, I’ve come up with a tips that have helped me feel more…

United States | Memphis | Tennessee

What’s it like visiting Elvis’s Graceland in Memphis?

On a recent visit to Memphis, Tennessee, I couldn’t resist stopping by Elvis Presley’s Graceland home for a visit. My mom was a huge Elvis fan, and his music always played…