Mt. Fuji

I had a list for Japan that was about three trips long.

That’s not an exaggeration. Every time I saved something — a shrine, a market, a neighborhood, a food spot — the list just kept growing. It became obvious pretty quickly that there was no version of this trip where I would see everything. Once I accepted that, planning got easier.

We went for two weeks in November for our first trip. Fall colors, cooler weather, and way too many places I thought we “should” see. At one point I was staring at my notes thinking, this is impossible. I had far more saved than any human could fit into fourteen days without turning the trip into a blur.

That’s when I stopped asking, “How do I see everything?” and started asking, “How do I want this trip to feel?”

Bishamondo Temple

For us, the answer was intentional. Cultural. Not rushed. I didn’t want to sprint from temple to temple all day and collapse at night wondering what we actually experienced. The biggest mistake I wanted to avoid was overplanning every hour. And really, that’s the mistake I see most people make with Japan. They stack too many stops into each day and underestimate how much walking and transit time everything takes. Japan is incredible, but if you plan it like a checklist, you’ll feel like you survived it instead of enjoyed it.

Once I knew the feeling we were aiming for, the route got clearer.

Hozugawa River

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

We started in Tokyo, spent the bulk of the trip based in Kyoto, did an overnight in Koyasan, added a few nights in Okinawa, and ended back in Tokyo. Osaka was originally on my list, but the deeper I got into planning, the more it felt like another big city stop we didn’t need. We’re more drawn to nature and cultural experiences than city hopping, so we stayed longer in Kyoto instead. That decision eventually led to one of our favorite experiences: an overnight stay at a Buddhist temple in Koyasan.

The single most helpful thing I did during planning was build everything out in Google My Maps. About three weeks before we left, I pinned every place we wanted to go — temples, markets, neighborhoods, train stations. Seeing it all visually changed everything. It showed me what could realistically be done in one day and what absolutely could not. Some stops that looked close on a list were nowhere near each other once mapped.

Traditional Tea Ceremony in Kyoto

That mapping phase is what kept this trip from feeling chaotic. It helped me group days logically so we weren’t zigzagging across cities and exhausting ourselves.

Transportation was the other piece that felt intimidating before we left. Everyone says the train system is easy, but very few explain what it feels like to walk into a massive station in Tokyo and try to find the right platform. We gave ourselves plenty of time for our first shinkansen departure because I knew I didn’t fully understand the layout yet. Once we figured it out, it was fine. But building in that extra time made a huge difference in stress levels.

Insuien Garden in Nara

We also skipped the rail pass after doing the math. It didn’t make sense for our route. Local trains are inexpensive, and we were only taking the shinkansen once. I think a lot of people overbuy passes because they assume they need them.

A few other realities: Tokyo hotel rooms are tiny, packing light matters more than you think, and you will walk a lot. We’re early risers, which is funny in Japan because not much opens early. Convenience stores became our go-to for coffee and snacks before starting the day. By the time most places opened, we had already logged thousands of steps.

One of the best decisions we made was staying longer in Kyoto instead of bouncing around constantly. Having a home base made the middle of the trip feel calmer. From there, we did the overnight to Koyasan and stopped in Nara on the way back. It was a good balance of movement and stability.

Koyasan ended up being one of the most memorable parts of the trip. Staying at a Buddhist temple isn’t something most people get to do. It was expensive, partly because we opted for a private driver instead of navigating multiple trains. At the time, that choice made the experience smoother. Now that I’ve done it once, I’d probably use the train system next time and save the money. But I don’t regret it.

Okuno-in Cemetery

Looking back, the biggest thing that made this trip work was planning ahead and then giving ourselves room within that plan. Flights were booked about seven months out. Once those were set, I had time to map everything, adjust, and build days that flowed well instead of feeling crammed.

If I went back tomorrow, I’d pack lighter, spend a few more nights in Tokyo for the food scene, and explore somewhere off the typical route — maybe a mountain town or a ryokan stay. Now that I’ve seen many of the “must-see” spots, a return trip could feel more like living there instead of trying to see it all.

If you’re planning your first trip to Japan and feeling overwhelmed, that’s normal. There’s a lot you could do. But you don’t need to do everything. Decide how you want the trip to feel, map your priorities, and build from there.

That’s how you experience Japan without turning it into a sprint.

Hanamikoji Street in Kyoto

Paper Lantern in Koyasan

If you’re planning Japan and your notes app is starting to look like a second job, you’re not alone. Mine did too. There’s a lot you could see, a lot you’ll be told you should see, and a lot that will look doable on paper until you actually map it out. The shift for me was realizing I didn’t need to do everything in one trip. Once I focused on pacing, mapped the stops that mattered most, and built the days around how we actually like to travel, the overwhelm settled down and the trip started to feel like ours instead of a checklist. We didn’t see everything, and that ended up being exactly why we loved it. Japan isn’t a one-and-done destination anyway. It’s the kind of place you experience a little at a time — and then start thinking about when you can go back before you’ve even unpacked.

Want more tips for planning bucket list trips? Need help with flights and accommodations? That’s literally what I do. Send me a message if you want me to put a trip together for you.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post How I Planned a Trip to Japan Without Completely Overwhelming Myself appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

Getting to Saint Maries

The easiest way to reach Saint Maries is by flying into Spokane International Airport. From there, it’s about a 1 hour 20 minute drive east, cutting through forested mountains, winding rivers, and wide-open skies until you arrive at this charming riverside town- one of the best spots to discover North Idaho’s quieter side.

Where to Stay: Riverfront Bliss

On my trip, I stayed at a riverfront camp owned by friends, and let me tell you… waking up to the St. Joe River flowing just outside your door feels like something out of a postcard. You’ll find plenty of cabins, riverfront rentals, and campgrounds in the area.

Charming Room 5 in the St. Maries Inn

check availability

Cozy St. Maries House with Private Dock on St. Joe River!

check availability

Waterfront Cabin w/ 2 Boat Docks & Mtn Views!

check availability

Imagine sipping coffee on a dock with nothing but mountain reflections on the water. It’s the perfect mix of rustic peace and outdoor fun. It’s the kind of morning that makes you grateful you chose to discover North Idaho’s hidden gems.

Water Adventures on the St. Joe & Saint Maries Rivers

This place is a water lover’s paradise. Between two rivers, you’ll never run out of ways to get out and play. Some of the best options include:

• Renting jet skis or paddleboards for a day of adrenaline or slow cruising.
• Tubing and knee boarding behind a boat for a classic summer lake day feel.
• Swimming and floating in the clear, crisp water surrounded by Idaho pines.

Want to see what this looks like in real life? I made an Instagram reel from Saint Maries that shows the river in all its glory.

4-Wheeling Trails for Days

Saint Maries isn’t just about the rivers. The surrounding mountains are full of 4-wheeling and off-roading trails that stretch for miles. Whether you bring your own ATVs or rent locally, it’s the perfect way to explore the forest, climb into the hills, and take in sweeping views you can’t see from the main roads.

It’s messy, it’s thrilling, and it’s one of the best ways to really experience North Idaho.

Small-Town Charm (and Coffee + WiFi!)

Saint Maries is a quaint small town with old-school diners, friendly locals, and a slower pace that forces you to breathe a little deeper. One morning, I ducked into a cozy café to catch up on work (and snag some decent cell service). It’s the kind of place where you’ll see the same people every morning, sipping coffee and chatting with neighbors.

Don’t expect big chains… this is where mom-and-pop shops still thrive.

Why Pick Saint Maries Over Coeur d’Alene?

Here’s the truth: Coeur d’Alene is beautiful, but it’s also crowded and pricey. Saint Maries offers:

• The same natural beauty without shoulder-to-shoulder crowds.
• Affordable accommodations that don’t break the bank.
• A more authentic Idaho experience – the kind that feels like your own private getaway.

If you love the outdoors but want to skip the chaos, this is where you need to be.

Final Word

For me, Saint Maries struck the perfect balance of play and peace. Days on the river, afternoons tearing up the trails, evenings under the stars. It was everything I needed in a summer escape.

Want a peek at what it all looked like? Check out my Instagram reel from Saint Maries for highlights from the trip.

If you’re ready to swap the tourist hustle for a trip that feels real, Saint Maries is waiting for you and it’s one of the best places to discover North Idaho at its best.

Need help planning? From flights to stays to excursions, I can take care of the hard work for you so you can just show up and enjoy. Reach me here.

Want more outdoor adventures? Check out these blogs next…

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The post Discover North Idaho: Why Saint Maries Should Be on Your Travel List appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

If I could bottle up the vibe of San Pedro, Belize, it would smell like saltwater, sound like reggae, and taste like fresh coconut. Island life on San Pedro is truly unique in its mix of casual elegance and pure relaxation.

We spent an extended weekend tucked away in a private villa on San Pedro Island—and let me tell you, this was barefoot luxury at its finest. From snorkeling with sea turtles to sipping cocktails waist-deep in the ocean, here’s everything we did (and how we did it without spending like a Kardashian). Our luxury stay was split among multiple people, making it quite affordable per person. I’ll be sure to share numerous options that are still budget friendly if you are traveling alone during your exploration of island life on San Pedro.

Getting to San Pedro: Puddle Jumpers & Private Boats

We flew into mainland Belize, then hopped on one of those tiny island flights that make you feel like you’re either starring in a rom-com or a travel documentary. Quick, scenic, and yes—a little bumpy.

From there, a boat picked us up and took us straight to our home. It felt a little like a James Bond entrance. Worth noting: a taxi works just fine too!

Our Villa: Private Dock, Pool, and the Dreamiest Sunsets

We stayed in a stunning home right on the white-sand beach. Think private pool, hot tub, and a hammock with a front-row seat to the sky turning pastel every evening. Our villa even had a caretaker on-site who made us breakfast every morning.

Let’s be clear: I’m not saying you need a hammock for sunrise and sunset… but I’m also not not saying that.

Here are some excellent options from very inexpensive to luxurious for your stay on the island:

Ocean Tide Beach Resort

Beachfront with outdoor pool

Check availability

Oceanfront Villa

Pool, beach access, and ocean view

check availability

Relaxing Seafront Escape

Condo with kayaks and infinity pool

check availability

Private Beachfront Paradise

Entire home with infinity pool

check availability

Miramar #5

Condo with gorgeous views plus pool, pier, palapa & kayaks

check availability

Exploring by Golf Cart + The Coolest Beach Bar Ever

On San Pedro, golf carts are the main mode of transportation—and honestly, it makes everything more fun. We cruised over to Secret Beach bar and grill where the picnic tables are literally planted 30 yards out in the ocean. Waist-deep, crystal-clear water, floating volleyball courts, cold drinks, and great friends? 10/10.

Boat Day Adventures: Conch Diving, Shark Snorkeling & Fresh Ceviche

Day 3 was for adventure. We chartered a boat to dive for conch and lobster (yes, with our own hands!). After that, we snorkeled in Hol Chan Reserve and Shark Ray Alley—sea turtles, stingrays, and finally… nurse sharks.

And as if that wasn’t already magic, we came home to fresh ceviche made from our morning catch. Our caretakers = island MVPs.

Town Day: Souvenirs, Shots, and Full Vacation Mode

On the last day we hit the town to explore San Pedro—picking up souvenirs, doing a little bar hopping, and yes, taking group shots off a bamboo rail, just living our best lives. It was full-on beach party energy, and I was ready for every second of island life on San Pedro. My favorite stops of this trip were for our multiple dinners at The Truck Stop. Most excellent quality fresh seafood and the chill vibe you hope to have on an island.

Final Thoughts: Belize Is Worth Every Flight, Ferry, and Flip-Flop

This was hands down one of my favorite trips. Relaxing, adventurous, and full of moments that made me feel completely present. If Belize and the island life on San Pedro are on your radar, bump them to the top of your list.

From sunrise walks on powdery white sand to snorkeling with sharks and sipping cocktails in the middle of the ocean—this place delivered the kind of magic that photos don’t do justice. It was the perfect mix of boujee and barefoot. If you’re craving a tropical escape with serious wow factor and don’t want to drop your entire savings to get it—Belize is the move.

Want help booking a similar trip or have questions about staying boujee on a budget?
Drop them in the comments or DM me on Instagram: @boujee_on_any_budget_travel

For more Island Life options:

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

The post The Perfect Belize Getaway: Island Life on San Pedro appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

There is something truly unforgettable about the Big Island of Hawaii. Unlike any other Hawaiian island, the Big Island offers a raw, untamed beauty and a diversity of landscapes that feels like you’re exploring multiple worlds in one. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking through lava fields or just soaking up the sun on the white sand beaches, this perfect Big Island itinerary will cover must-see spots, hidden gems, and unforgettable moments. Truly, this island is the best of Hawaii. 

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. 

When to Go:

Getting Around:

Where to Stay:

The Big Island has 2 distinct sides. The wet side and the dry side. With the towering volcanoes in the center of the island, it creates it’s very own weather pattern. The volcanoes block a lot of trade winds for the Kona side, capturing much of the moisture in the atmosphere and dropping it on the Hilo side. You will notice quickly that Kona and the surrounding areas have a lot of lava fields and mostly sunny, dry days. The Hilo side is lush with gorgeous plants, rain forests, and waterfalls- plus you can count on rain almost daily. 

For the ideal vacation, you likely want to stay on the Kona side and visit the Hilo side. During our stay, the visit to Hilo and the surrounding areas was hands-down, my favorite. It has a very “Jurassic Park” vibe. But it would have put quite the damper on the trip to have rain most of the days. 

We stayed with my parents, I know, lucky us. They have a condo in Kona that served as the PERFECT base for this trip. There were numerous resorts up and down this coast. You have SO MANY choices. Do you want to walk out to a luxury pool just steps from the beach with a few restaurants within reach? Maybe a hotel is your best option. Do you want to have a kitchen available and less traffic? Then a vacation rental is your choice.

Either way, here are some fantastic options to start your trip off on the right foot:

Kona Coast Resort

Resort offering 2 outdoor swimming pools, Spa service and restaurant on site.

Check pricing

Royal Kona

Upscale hotel offering luxury pool with cabanas and sun loungers. Beautiful property landscaping with restaurant on site.

check pricing

Hilton Grand Vacation

Family-friendly suites, outdoor pool with bar, on-site gym, and nearby beaches.

check pricing

Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo

Oceanfront hotel with 2 bars/lounges and on-site restaurant. Near Coconut Island Park

check pricing

How long should you stay?

I suggest a week. You could get away with 5 days, 10 would be fantastic if you have the time to really lounge and relax. But if you travel like me, we are there to see the world. Show me what you are made of, give me the goods, AND let me relax some, but I’ve got to get home and back to reality. So- 7 days is the perfect length of time. 

Things to Do:

If the Big Island had a motto, it would probably be something like “Why choose just one vibe when you can have them all?” Every corner of this island offers something different- something unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite experiences plus the ones that I missed to fill out this perfect Big Island itinerary. 

Night Dive with Manta Rays

Whale Watching (winter activity)

Chasing Waterfalls 

Visit a Coffee Farm

Helicopter Tour

Hike in Volcano National Park

Beaches and Snorkeling Galore

Get in the car and drive!

Use the GuideAlong app I’ve mentioned in previous blogs and let Ranger Rick (this is what we’ve named the voice) give you a wonderful, guided tour as you cruise by the Waipio Valley, Hamakua Coast, Akaka Falls, and through lava fields. Hunt for Petroglyphs, stop on the Coffee coast, and take a look at the caldera of Kilauea- Halema’uma’u.  

And finally, no trip to Hawaii would be complete without a gorgeous sunset Luau. 

Final Thoughts

From soaring over volcanoes and waterfalls in a helicopter to dancing under the stars at a luau to snorkeling with sea turtles, this island delivers nonstop magic with a side of chill. Pack your sense of adventure because the Big Island isn’t just a destination- it’s a full-blown experience. This perfect Big Island itinerary will leave you sandy, sun-kissed, and seriously considering a one-way ticket back.

Aloha

Leave me a comment about your trip to Hawaii or if any of these tips have sparked your interest to plan a getaway! 

For more beach escapes, check out this trip to Sayulita, Mexico and San Pedro, Belize.

The post The Perfect Big Island Itinerary, the Best of Hawaii appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.

Tucked away along Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, Sayulita is the kind of place that feels like a well-kept secret- where colorful streets meet golden beaches, and time seems to slow down just enough for you to breathe it all in. Once a sleepy fishing village, Sayulita has blossomed into a vibrant surf town with bohemian charm, yet it’s managed to hold onto its laid-back soul. From morning surf sessions and jungle hikes to fresh ceviche and sunsets that light up the sky, Sayulita will capture your heart. Check out this ultimate guide to Mexico’s hidden gem, whether you’re chasing off-the-beaten-path adventures or simply looking to unwind with a drink in hand. 

Day 1

Arrive in Puerto Vallarta and catch your ride to Sayulita. Check in to your accommodations, unpack and get settled. Then head out to explore the small town. There are plenty of options for cute patios to grab a drink and snacks. We had a sunset dinner on the beach.

We hired 2 cars as we were travelling with 4 couples and 2 children. You can easily get an Uber or taxi from the airport. Another option is the bus, which leaves every 20-30 minutes and is only 60 pesos. The drive to Sayulita is about an hour. 

Where to Stay

One of the best things about Sayulita is that there are no large hotels or all-inclusive resorts. This leaves the overall vibe much more relaxed and offers an authentic view of Mexico. If you choose a hotel in town, almost everything will be within walking distance. If you choose an Airbnb/VRBO up on the hill, you will also want to rent golf carts. Getting around with a car is cumbersome and unnecessary. Golf carts fit the small streets much better, and you will be in good company as this is the way the majority of people get around.

We stayed in the most amazing VRBO. Each room was completely detached from one another with private baths. This open-air home was beautifully designed with fun touches like a tree trunk going through the shower and intricate stone designs on the spiral stairs.

Check out these other amazing accommodations:

Casa Mar with Private Beach

Gated 5 acre property with private beach

check availability

 Las Hadas Del Mar

This is TRULY one of the most amazing villas in Sayulita

check availability

Riviera Sayulita Hotel

Aparthotel with free parking, a quick walk to Sayulita Square

check availability

Day 2 

Easy lazy morning at the house. We had a private chef that came to prepare us breakfast each morning. The home we rented was spectacular, with amazing views, so much of this trip centered around taking full advantage of such luxury.

We took the golf carts into town to do some shopping and exploring. The afternoon was spent at the beach enjoying the warm water, building sandcastles and people watching. We wrapped up this day back at our house, taking in the sights from the infinity pool and relaxing with our friends. 

Here are some other great activities to do in Sayulita:

Day 3

The guys left early for a fishing expedition while the girls had a slow morning before heading into town for lunch. The sleepy town of Sayulita is such a lovely place to visit in the shoulder seasons (Oct-Nov & Apr-May). It was not overcrowded, and the weather was perfect. Shopping ranges from inexpensive to some very pricey shops. There is something for everyone to enjoy.  We spent the early afternoon hours relaxing by the pool awaiting the return of our fish!

The guys brought back a large haul of Mahi Mahi. We gave some to the private chef so she could curate a beautiful dinner for us the following night. For this nights’ dinner, we brought the fish to a local restaurant, and they prepared numerous dishes using the Mahi Mahi. From ceviche, to sashimi, to various fried versions. The spread was absolutely amazing, and I would highly recommend asking a local restaurant to do the same for you if you go fishing! 

Other great places to eat:

• El Itacate
• Xochi
• La Rustica
• The Dock

Day 4

Mid-morning departure to the marina to catch a catamaran with Ally Cat Sailing. This was a 5 hour, completely catered adventure. There was a full bar, fresh spreads for snacks, and a full lunch menu. We dropped anchor 2 times and got off the boat to snorkel, swim, and relax on the floating pad. This was a special excursion for sure and would have felt quite costly if not split between 4 couples. 

Our dinner this evening was absolutely amazing. The private chef and her crew outdid themselves with the meal that featured the Mahi Mahi caught by our guys.

Day 5

We hired the same 2 cars to bring us back to the airport. Depending on the time of year, it can get quite busy at the Puerto Vallarta airport so you will want to plan accordingly.

Have you been to Sayulita or have questions about planning a trip? I’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below and share your thoughts or experiences. And if you enjoyed this post, don’t forget to subscribe for more hidden gems, travel tips, and destination inspiration straight to your inbox.

Similar Beach Trips

The post Sayulita: Your Ultimate Guide to Mexico’s Hidden Gem appeared first on Boujee on Any Budget Travel.