UPDATE:  The contest has ended and Yulia (@thefoodiemiles) is the winner of this great Universal Orlando Resort vacation package. Congratulations Yulia!  You all know that I’m a big fan of Universal Orlando Resort. From the three theme parks (including the newly opened Volcano Bay water theme park) to the CityWalk entertainment area to the onsite hotels, I think they are aces when it comes to the guest experience. Today I’m excited to announce a contest that I’m running on my Instagram account – a giveaway for a package to Universal Orlando. Before you head on over there, here are the details: The Prize Two 3-Day tickets to Universal Orlando Resort parks, including Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal’s Volcano Bay! Plus, a 3-Night stay for two at one of at one of Universal Orlando Resort’s onsite […]

I’m working on the next Traveling with MJ newsletter (it comes out on the first Sunday of the month) – have you subscribed? It’s a quick read each month and recaps where I’ve been and where I’m going, highlights some key articles from across my several blogs, and provides recommendations for your next trip whether it’s across town or around the world.  

Last month the monthly themed travel round up focused on Romance. There were some great ideas, suitable for Valentine’s Day or any time you want a little romance in your life. My favorite of the linked up travel inspiration posts was from Raphael at A Journey of Wonders. His story and photos challenge us to think about whether or not Paris is the City of Love. After reading his list of romantic things to do in Paris, I think you’ll say yes. What’s Up This Month? The theme for this month is Architecture.  There are so many beautiful buildings around the world, all you have to do is share a story, photo, or post about one of your favorites. If you’re a blogger and would like to participate in the link round up, here are the guidelines: Post should be […]

Last month the monthly themed travel round up focused on Art. As a big fan of both museum quality art as well as street art, I found the submissions a great list of places to check out. My favorite of the linked up travel inspiration posts was from Marysia at My Travel Affairs. Her story – and photos – about street art in Tel Aviv was amazing. I had no idea there was such a street culture in Israel, and if you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to click through to read her post. What’s up This Month The theme for this month is Romance, in honor of Valentine’s Day.  A romantic hotel or restaurant, a beautiful beach or sunset, a hideaway that’s perfect for two, any take on the theme of Romance is great for this month’s link up. If […]

Last month the monthly themed travel round up focused on Inspiration. There weren’t a lot of participants, in large part due to an error on my part cutting off the submission date. Nonetheless, I enjoyed reading what inspires people to travel. My favorite of the linked up travel inspiration posts was from Suzanne Fluhr at Boomeresque. Her story about Mexico, specifically San Miguel de Allende, in 1963 and how that was the genesis of her desire and love of travel, was heartfelt and inspirational. If you haven’t read it, click on through and do so. I think you’ll be as moved as I was. What’s Up This Month This month I want to know a little more about how you have experienced and appreciate art while you’re traveling. Perhaps you have a favorite art museum, or a piece of public […]

This morning I had the chance to chat with some friends and colleagues about the upcoming TBEX conference in Dublin. A lot of people do a lot of work to make this all come together, and I’ll admit to lots of late night crankiness here at my house as well, but once I get on the plane on Sunday, it’s all smooth sailing. This Google Hangout was organized by Alastair McKenzie as part of his Travel Coffee Break series. It’s a lively and informative discussion on not only the TBEX conference, but also our thoughts on the evolution of travel and tourism and its relationship with the media.