Spring Break is calling (and our family trip feels different this year)

Hi ,

For the first time in over 20 years of family travel, the four of us won’t be heading off together.

Kalyra already had her spring break… and she spent it in Venice, Italy. Yes — Venice!

She joined a one-week study abroad program through college, something Craig and I were really hoping she would take advantage of while she had the chance. What an incredible experience — a week exploring Venice with her best friend, including a day trip to Verona.

Most of the time was spent soaking up the magic of Italy, but there were also two short educational visits to hospitals and psychiatric wards to learn about the history of medicine — which earned her a college credit.

Honestly, what a brilliant alternative to sitting in a classroom for a full semester.

And thanks to a stash of airline miles, we were able to book her flights for free! One of those moments where all those points collecting efforts really paid off!

Still… it feels strange planning a family trip knowing she won’t be there.

Our Spring Break: Charleston

Craig, Savannah, and I are heading to Charleston, South Carolina for spring break.

It’s actually been nearly 20 years since our last visit, which feels hard to believe because Charleston has always been one of our favorite US cities.

This time we’re planning to savor it slowly.

On the list so far:

• A Charleston food tour (because this is one of the great foodie cities of the South)
• A horse and carriage tour through the historic district — a classic Charleston experience
• A Gullah culture tour to learn more about the incredible history and traditions of the region
• Wandering the colorful historic streets and waterfront

And we’re staying at a beautiful Southern boutique inn that looks like something straight out of a novel.

We’ll be sharing it all with you so stay tuned.

If you're planning a getaway too, I pulled together a guide to some of the best spring break destinations across the US, from beaches to charming cities to national parks. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or sneaking away for a couple’s trip, there are some fantastic ideas in there.

A few life updates

It’s been a full few weeks over here.

After officially becoming a US citizen, I’ve already had the opportunity to do two things that felt really meaningful.

First — I voted.

And recently I attended a Ladies of the NC General Assembly gathering at the historic Borden House in Raleigh. As a relatively new citizen, I’m committed to learning more about how our state works and how I can contribute in a meaningful way. It was inspiring to meet several senators and representatives and hear their perspectives on voting and the issues shaping North Carolina.

And last week Craig and I attended the NC Courage season kickoff gala for Raleigh’s women’s professional soccer team.

If you’ve followed us for a while, you know we’re big fans of this organization and the incredible athletes who play for the Courage. It was such a privilege to be included in the evening and celebrate the start of a new season.

One of the highlights was catching up again with Aussie legend Cortnee Vine, who plays for the team. Whenever we chat, the conversation usually turns to two things we miss from home in Australia… and where to find the best coffee in Raleigh.

We’ll be at the game this weekend and are excited to continue supporting women’s sports and deepening our partnership with the Courage this year.

Spring is arriving, travel plans are forming, and life feels full of movement again.

I’d love to hear where you are headed for spring break this year! Hit reply and share.

Caroline

Warmly,
Caroline