ABOUT US

Hi, we are Todd & Tricia Blakney!

We live in a small town in Iowa — population: about 1,000 people. Yes, you read that right. One stoplight (just kidding, not even a stoplight), everybody knows everybody, and if you blink, you might miss the whole thing.

And somehow… from there… we built a life that spans continents.

By day, my husband and I both work in the medical supply industry. It’s fast-paced, people-centered, and constantly moving — which is fitting, because we’re almost never standing still. Whether it’s work travel or hopping a flight to Europe, we’re usually on the road. Airports feel more familiar than our own driveway some weeks.

But that contrast? That’s the sweet spot.

Small-town roots. Big-world energy.

When we are home, we lean into it. Slow evenings. Netflix on the couch. Dinner out with friends. Drinks with family. Loud laughs around tables where everyone has known each other forever. It’s grounding in the best way.

And then there are our two VIPs, our dogs: Teddy and Tater Tot. They love when we’re home — but they also love their “vacations” two blocks away at Grandpa’s house when we’re off gallivanting across Europe. It’s a full family operation around here.

Travel, for us, isn’t about escaping our life. It’s about expanding it.

We believe you don’t need three suitcases to see the world — just a solid plan, a good pair of walking shoes, and enough room in your bag for something fabulous you absolutely didn’t plan to buy.

We travel Europe with backpacks. Carry-on only. No chaos. No overpacking. Just intentional experiences, great wine, boutique hotels, cobblestone streets, and the occasional designer “souvenir.” Yes, you can do it. I have closets full of clothes, hair products, makeup, shoes…everything you can imagine, and yet I can still do it, which is just with a carry-on bag. 

It started because people kept asking:

“How are you doing Europe with just a backpack?”

“How do you make it look that easy?”

The answer? Systems. Confidence. And knowing what’s actually worth carrying — in your luggage and in life.

Here you’ll find:

• Smart packing strategies

• European travel guides

• Luxury experiences without unnecessary excess

• Honest recommendations

• A little humor

• And a reminder that you should probably order the second glass of wine

This space is for people who love beautiful places but also love their people back home.

For those who can appreciate a five-star rooftop view…and also a Friday night in a town of 1,000.

For couples who work hard, travel often, and laugh a lot.

We pack light.

We drink well.

We shop irresponsibly.

And we collect stories — from Iowa to Italy and everywhere in between.

Welcome to our journey.

Let’s go somewhere unforgettable.