My dad introduced me to adventure long before I started traveling the world. His love of exploring new places continues to inspire me today.
Tomorrow, I board a plane to Dubai. Itâs a trip Iâve wanted to take for years.
But this adventure means more to me than visiting another country.
It reminds me of my dad.
He introduced me to the world of travel when I was young. Now, as I begin a new chapter, I want to honor that gift.
How my dad inspired my love of travel
Berlin, Germany, 1991. I took this photo of my dad during a trip we shared. Looking back, I realize how much those early adventures inspired my lifelong love of travel.
My dad owned a travel agency when I was growing up in Wisconsin.
He loved discovering new places. He also loved sharing that excitement with others.
Because of him, I dreamed about seeing the world.
I imagined visiting distant countries, meeting new people and exploring different cultures.
However, life took me in another direction.
After high school, I pursued a career in broadcasting. That decision changed my life.
Thirty years of telling other peopleâs stories
My early broadcasting days at WXVT 15 News in Greenville, Mississippi, where I served as the main weather anchor. Journalism became my career, but my love of travel never faded.
For more than 30 years, journalism became my world.
I covered breaking news, investigated crimes and shared stories that mattered.
Eventually, my career brought me to Houston.
For nine years, I reported from a helicopter above the city.
I watched beautiful sunrises and sunsets from thousands of feet in the air.
I loved those moments.
Still, the demanding schedule left little time for travel.
I spent years telling other peopleâs stories. Meanwhile, I kept putting my own adventures on hold.
The trips my dad never got to take
The breathtaking Whitsunday Islands in Australia, 2024. I visited on my dad’s birthday to honor his dream of seeing Australia. He never made it there, but I carried his love of travel with me.
My dad passed away in 2018.
Even today, I think about the places he wanted to visit,.
Australia was on his bucket list. So, in 2024, I traveled there on his birthday.
It was my way of honoring him and experiencing a place he had always dreamed of seeing.
I wish we could have shared more adventures together.
But I canât change the past.
Instead, I can carry his love of travel into my future.
Thatâs what makes this next chapter so meaningful.
Why Iâm traveling to Dubai
On October 13, Iâm leaving Houston for Dubai.
Iâll explore a city Iâve never visited. I also plan to experience the desert, enjoy the water and discover a new culture.
Most importantly, Iâll finally give myself time to explore.
After years of early mornings and breaking news, that feels exciting.
Of course, I still love journalism.
Iâm not retiring from telling stories.
Instead, Iâm stepping away from daily helicopter reporting. Iâll continue my investigative work, true crime coverage and independent reporting.
Now, Iâll also share my travels.
A new chapter, inspired by my dad
As I prepare for Dubai, I keep thinking about my dad.
He showed me that the world offers endless possibilities.
I just needed to make time to explore them.
I wish he could join me on this trip.
But in many ways, heâs coming along.
His love of travel started this dream.
And now, Iâm finally following it.
Sometimes the greatest adventure isnât about where youâre going. Itâs about remembering who inspired you to go.
Follow my journey here on ChopperRose.com and on my YouTube channel, Tammy Rose Reports.
My new book, When Two Worlds Collide During WWII, follows two families on opposite sides of World War II and the remarkable events that eventually brought their lives together in Wisconsin.
My Italy Adventure: Rome, Sardinia, Hotels, Excursions and Travel Essentials
Italy has been on my travel list for a long time, and this September Iâm finally making the trip.
My itinerary takes me from Rome to Sardinia and back to Rome, with historic sights, beautiful beaches, boat excursions and plenty of walking along the way.
Iâm sharing where Iâm staying, the excursions Iâm planning and some of the travel gear Iâm packing in case youâre planning your own Italy adventure.
My Italy Itinerary
I arrive in Rome on September 3 and will spend several days exploring the city before heading to Sardinia.
My itinerary includes:
Rome: September 3â6 Sardinia: September 6â10 Return to Rome: September 10 Final night near Rome Fiumicino Airport before flying home
Planning a Vacation? Kathy Chrappa Can Help
Iâve worked with Kathy Chrappa at Dream Vacations, and she has more than 25 years of experience helping travelers find vacations that fit their budget and travel style. Whether youâre planning Europe, a cruise, or a tropical getaway, having someone help with the details can save time and reduce stress.
The location was a major reason I chose it. I wanted to stay close to central Rome so I could walk to restaurants, shops and major attractions without spending too much time dealing with transportation.
Staying near the Trevi Fountain also puts me in one of the most recognizable areas of Rome.
Rome is packed with history, architecture, food and famous landmarks.
I expect to do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes will be one of the most important things in my suitcase.
My Rome Excursions
I already have several must-see Rome experiences planned for this trip.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Iâm taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour to get a good overview of Rome and see more of the city without having to walk every mile. It will also give me the flexibility to stop at different landmarks along the way.
Vatican City
A visit to Vatican City is also on my itinerary. Iâm excited to see the Vatican Museums, St. Peterâs Basilica and some of the incredible history and artwork found throughout the area.
Colosseum
No trip to Rome would feel complete without seeing the Colosseum. Iâll be visiting one of Romeâs most famous landmarks and learning more about its history while exploring the surrounding ancient ruins.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Romeâs cobblestone streets make comfortable shoes especially important.
One of the biggest reasons I chose Sardinia is the water.
Iâm especially excited about exploring the La Maddalena Archipelago, an area known for islands, beaches, coves and incredibly clear Mediterranean water.
La Maddalena Boat Excursion
A boat trip around La Maddalena is one of the excursions Iâm looking forward to most.
The excursion should give me a chance to see parts of the islands that are much easier to experience from the water.
What Iâm Packing for Sardinia
Beach and boat days require a completely different set of essentials than sightseeing in Rome.
I want items that work for sightseeing in Rome, walking around Sardinia and spending time on boats and beaches.
Some of my Italy travel essentials include:
Comfortable walking shoes Lightweight backpack Water shoes Snorkel gear Waterproof phone pouch Small dry bag Portable charger European travel adapter Sunglasses Refillable water bottle
Follow My Italy Trip
Iâll be sharing more from Rome and Sardinia as I travel.
I plan to show you the hotels, excursions, beaches, food and places I visit along the way.
Iâll also share what I loved, what I would do differently and whether the hotels and excursions were worth the money.
If youâre planning your own Italy trip, I hope my experience helps make your planning a little easier.
Affiliate Disclosure
This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase or booking through one of these links, at no additional cost to you.
Planning a trip can feel overwhelming. I recently planned my dream trip to Italy, and I found a few tools that made everything much easier. They also helped me save money and stay organized.
If youâre planning your next vacation, here are a few travel tips that worked well for me.
1. Use Google Flights to Find the Best Airfare
I used Google Flights to compare airfare and track prices before booking my Italy trip. It helped me find the best fare before purchasing my tickets.
Before booking any flight, I always start with Google Flights.
It compares prices from multiple airlines and travel websites in one place. One of my favorite features is the price tracking tool. You can turn on alerts and Google will email you if the fare goes up or drops before you book.
This helped me keep an eye on flights until I found the best price for my trip to Rome.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend services I personally use or believe provide value.
One of the biggest surprises while planning my trip was how easy it was to keep my hotel reservations organized with Hotels.com. I could compare prices, read verified guest reviews, and book accommodations that fit both my itinerary and budget.
If youâre planning a trip to Italy, you can browse hotel options here:
Instead of juggling confirmations from several companies, I could keep my hotel plans in one place while still booking attractions, airport transfers, and other travel experiences separately.
Having everything organized makes traveling much less stressful.
Planning a Vacation? Kathy Chrappa Can Help
If planning an international trip feels overwhelming, consider using a travel advisor.
Iâve worked with Kathy Chrappa at Dream Vacations, and she has more than 25 years of experience helping travelers find vacations that fit their budget and travel style. Whether youâre planning Europe, a cruise, or a tropical getaway, having someone help with the details can save time and reduce stress.
An RFID-blocking wallet can help protect your credit cards from electronic scanning and keeps your travel essentials organized in one place.
Crowded tourist areas can attract electronic pickpockets.
An RFID-blocking wallet or purse helps protect your credit cards and passport from unauthorized RFID scanning. Itâs a small investment that can provide extra peace of mind while traveling.
A MagSafe portable charger kept my iPhone powered throughout the day for maps, boarding passes, photos, and navigation without searching for an outlet.
Your phone quickly becomes your camera, GPS, boarding pass, hotel key, and attraction ticket.
A MagSafe portable charger lets you recharge while walking around without carrying extra cables. It has become one of the travel items I never leave home without.
5. Book Popular Attractions Before You Leave
Many of Italyâs most popular attractions sell out weeks in advance.
For my trip, I booked:
Colosseum Arena Floor Experience
Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel
La Maddalena Archipelago Boat Tour
Rome Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Booking early gave me more choices for dates and times, and it helped me build my itinerary before arriving in Italy.
Final Thoughts
A little planning goes a long way. Using Google Flights to track airfare, Hotels.com to organize reservations, and a few simple travel accessories can make your trip much smoother.
Iâm excited to share photos, videos, and travel tips from Italy, so be sure to check back for updates.
For more travel stories and adventures, explore my other travel articles here.
Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you buy through my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Travel is one of the greatest joys in life, but accidents can happen when you least expect them.
Thatâs why travel insurance for medical emergencies abroad is one of the most important things you can have before leaving home.
Over the years Iâve had three travel mishaps that could have turned into financial disasters if I hadnât had the right coverage. They taught me a lesson every traveler should understand:
Travel insurance isnât just about lost luggage or canceled flights â it can save you thousands if you get hurt.
Here are three real experiences that changed the way I travel.
Scooter Crash in Turks and Caicos
Our first lesson happened in Turks and Caicos.
My husband and I rented a scooter to explore the island. It seemed like the perfect way to see the beaches and enjoy the tropical breeze.
Then we crashed.
My husband was wearing sandals, and when the scooter went down he ripped open the side of his foot on the pavement. It was a pretty nasty injury.
Luckily, I had been wearing water shoes, which protected my feet. I walked away with bumps and bruises, but it could have been much worse.
Medical care on islands can be expensive, and this was the moment we realized how quickly a fun vacation could turn into a medical situation.
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Coral Cut While Snorkeling in Honduras
The second incident happened while snorkeling in Honduras.
I scraped my lower right leg on coral. At first it didnât seem like a big deal. We cleaned it and continued enjoying the trip.
But after returning home, something didnât feel right.
My doctor diagnosed a serious bacterial infection, often called âflesh-eating bacteria.â Thankfully it was caught early and treated with antibiotics.
The medical bill added up quickly, but my travel insurance helped cover the costs.
That coral scrape could have turned into something far worse if it hadnât been caught early.
After scraping my leg on coral while snorkeling in Honduras, I now always travel with reef-safe water shoesto protect my feet and legs when swimming near reefs.
Cenote Accident in Cozumel
The third incident happened in Cozumel, Mexico.
We were visiting a beautiful cenote and decided to jump into the water. On the jump I inhaled a huge gulp of water and quickly became very sick.
Not long after, I ended up in the emergency room.
The bill?
$9,000.
Thankfully insurance covered most of it. Because I didnât purchase a dedicated travel insurance plan for that trip, my portion of the bill was still $500 out of pocket.
It was a powerful reminder that accidents can happen anywhere â even during something as simple as a swim.
Now, I always keep a small waterproof first aid kit in my travel bag in case something happens on a boat or while snorkeling
Why Travel Insurance Matters
I also keep my travel insurance paperwork and medical information in a travel document organizer so itâs easy to access in an emergency. Many travelers assume nothing will happen to them on vacation.
But injuries and medical emergencies can happen while:
And when they happen outside your home country, costs can escalate quickly.
Travel insurance designed for medical emergencies abroad can cover:
âą emergency room visits âą ambulance transport âą hospital stays âą medications âą emergency evacuation if needed
Without coverage, travelers can face thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars in bills.
Before traveling internationally, itâs always smart to review the latest travel health recommendationsfrom the CDC.
Just like flying, travel conditions can change quickly. Iâve seen firsthand how unpredictable situations can become, similar to when the sky turns dangerous during flight as I shared in this story about travel emergencies and aviation challenges.
If youâre visiting Cozumel, one of the best excursions you can take is a 3-stop snorkeling tour with Chac Choc Tours. At about $90 per person, this tour included reefs, starfish, food, drinks, and a stop inside the famous Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel.
This was easily one of the highlights of our trip.
đ Meeting at Adventure Planet
The tour begins at Adventure Planet, where you check in and board the double-decker snorkel/dive boat. The crew was friendly and professional, and the boat had plenty of shade.
Exploring the colorful underwater world of Cozumel on my first scuba dive at Chankanaab Beach.
If youâve ever dreamed of diving into crystal-clear waters surrounded by vibrant marine life, Cozumel is the place to make it happen. Thanks to our travel agent, Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations, we discovered an excursion that truly knocked it out of the park: scuba diving at Chankanaab Beach Adventure Park for under $80! Whether itâs your very first dive or youâve been exploring the depths for years, this experience is absolutely not to be missed.
I captured this entire dive using my GoPro underwater camera, and it was worth every penny for the footage.
First-Time Divers Welcome
Getting ready for the dive! Our instructor made sure everything fit perfectly before heading into the water.
I had never dived before, but our instructor was amazingâpatient, supportive, and right there with me the whole time. From the moment we got our gear on to our descent into the turquoise waters, I felt safe and encouraged. My pictures and video show the excitement leading up to the dive and the calm, careful instruction that made everything seamless.
Underwater Wonders
We always bring our own snorkeling masksand goggleswhen we travel. Having gear we trust makes a huge difference in comfort and visibility.
Once underwater, it was like entering another world. We swam alongside schools of colorful fish, curious barracudas, starfish clinging to coral, and even spotted a few stingrays gliding gracefully across the sandy bottom. Every photo and video I captured showcases the incredible variety and beauty of Cozumelâs underwater lifeâit was like snorkeling through a living aquarium!
More Than Just Diving
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After the dive, we had the chance to relax and explore Chankanaabâs beach area. There was plenty to do: enjoy the sun, grab a bite, or watch the entertaining sea lion show.
Pro Tips for First-Time Divers
âą Book Through a Trusted Travel Agent: Kathy Chrappa Dream Vacations made the whole process easy. Call (832) 703-2432 to learn more.
Crystal-clear blue water. Limestone walls. Sunlight pouring through the opening above. The kind of place that makes you forget everything else and just jump.
So I did.
And five days later, I was in the emergency room.
Moments before jumping 20 feet into a cenote in Cozumel, Mexico.
The Excursion That Looked Too Good to Pass Up
Before traveling to Cozumel, I booked an excursion that included a 20-foot jump into a cenote. The photos looked incredible â travelers suspended mid-air over glowing blue water, smiling like they were in a travel magazine.
I had never done a jump like that before, but it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
There was no real warning. No talk about risks. Just climb up, step forward, and jump.
So I went for it.
I’m so glad I was wearing my GoPro during the cenote jump because it captured the entire moment-even though I had no idea at the time it would later send me to the ER. Watching it back now is unbelievable.
Before you jump, watch this: my real cenote experience and why I got sick.
The Jump
The second I hit the water, everything changed.
Instead of a smooth landing, I swallowed a large amount of water.
It went down my throat, into my nose â everywhere.
I came up coughing, but everyone around me was laughing, smiling, and swimming like nothing happened.
I brushed it off.
I wish I hadnât. Click video below to see the jump.
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The Symptoms Didnât Hit Right Away
At first, I felt mostly fine.
But over the next few days, things started to change.
It started with nausea.
Then fatigue.
Then I just felt⊠off.
Each day, it got worse.
I couldnât understand how jumping into beautiful, clear water could make me feel this sick.
I‘m so glad I was wearing my GoPro during the cenote jump because it captured the entire moment-even though I had no idea at the time it would later send me to the ER. Watching it back now is unbelievable.
Five Days Later, I Ended Up in the ER
By day five, I was throwing up blood.
My husband rushed me to the hospital.
Tests showed I had picked up bacteria.
I was given medication and treatment, and thankfully, Iâm now recovering.
But it was scary.
Because it all started with something that looked completely harmless.
This is when I knew something was seriously wrong-five days after swallowing cenote water, I ended up in the ER.
What Many Tourists Donât Realize About Cenotes
Cenotes are natural sinkholes.
They are not chlorinated pools.
They contain natural water â and sometimes bacteria and parasites.
Even when they look clean, they can still make you sick if you inhale or swallow the water.
Most people are fine.
But not everyone.
And I wasnât.
According to travel health experts, natural bodies of water can contain bacteria that may cause illness if swallowed. Click here to learn more from the CDC.
Travel has a way of testing you before it rewards you. Our Princess cruise through Australia was no exception. What began with an unexpected electrical fire quickly tested our patience and plans. However, that rough start turned into an unforgettable journey filled with stunning island views, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences â and even a surprise jellyfish sting.
Stop One: Whitsunday Islands, Queensland
A stunning view from the Whitsunday Islands, Queensland.
Our first stop was the breathtaking Whitsunday Islands. The scenery here feels lifted from a postcard. Turquoise water meets powderâwhite beaches, and the natural patterns of sand and sea stretch as far as the eye can see. Just looking out over this vast beauty reminded us how lucky we were to be here.
Lookout Mountain in the Whitsunday Islands offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Lookout Mountain â Whitsundays
From Lookout Mountain, we took in sweeping vistas of the islands. It was one of those moments where you simply pause and appreciate how enormous and beautiful the world really is.
Visiting an animal preserve in Cairns and experiencing Aboriginal culture.
Meanwhile, Cairns offered a completely different experience from the islands. Here, we visited an animal preserve where we were able to see koalas up close along with other native Australian wildlife.
This stop also included an Aboriginal cultural show, featuring traditional music, dance, and storytelling. Watching the performance was both moving and educational, offering a deeper understanding of Australiaâs Indigenous heritage and connection to the land.
Stop Three: The Great Barrier Reef
Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s natural wonders.
No Australian cruise would be complete without experiencing the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkeling among the coral and marine life was one of the most unforgettable moments of the entire trip.
Even with an unexpected jellyfish sting along the way, the beauty of the reef made every second worth it. Floating above vibrant coral formations was unforgettable. The clear blue water made the experience even more surreal.
Explore More Travel Adventures
If you loved this Australian cruise journey, donât miss our other amazing trips! For more sun, sand, and unforgettable experiences, click here to read our Turks and Caicos adventure: Turks and Caicos Travel Story
Cruising through Central America should be relaxing, but our trip quickly turned eventful during a snorkeling excursion. Between strong currents, unexpected waves, and a few clumsy moments, what started as a leisurely adventure became a story worth telling.
We explored the reefs in Honduras, Belize, and Cozumel, following safety guidelines from the Belize Tourism Board.
First Stop: Honduras
Tammy & Paul on boat in Honduras
Our day in Honduras began with calm waters and bright skies. I had my snorkeling gear ready, excited to explore the reefs.
However, the water quickly reminded me that even calm-looking currents can be tricky. I accidentally hit a coral outcrop with my leg, and my GoPro was totaled in the process. It was painful, but I didnât realize how serious it could get.
When I got home, I discovered the cut had become infected with flesh-eating bacteria. I was lucky to see a doctor quickly â early treatment made all the difference. This experience taught me how a simple injury while snorkeling can turn into a dangerous situation if not treated promptly.
With guidance from our tour leaders, we navigated carefully through the rest of the reef. Despite the mishap, I still enjoyed the vibrant coral and tropical fish. It became one of those stories youâll never forget â and one I hope others can learn from.
Next Stop: Belize
Belize offered a completely different underwater landscape. The currents were gentler, making it easier to explore
The reefs were alive with colorful fish, and coral formations stretched as far as the eye could see. At one point, a small stumble led to a bit of laughter, turning a minor mishap into a memorable moment.
Exploring Belize reminded me how each snorkeling spot has its own character. Even small challenges can add to the adventure, making the experience more vivid and unforgettable.
Belize water huts/dock
Final Stop: Cozumel
Cozumelâs waters were pristine and inviting. With more confidence from previous stops, I navigated the reef smoothly. Turtles glided by, rays floated beneath us, and the vibrant coral stretched in every direction.
đ„ Watch the video below to experience the adventure as it unfolded â snorkeling, sailing, and all the moments in between.
Princess Regal Cruise to Honduras, Belize & Mexico!
Even a few small bumps and minor stumbles couldnât dampen the excitement. Every stop offered unique sights, reminding me why multi-port cruises are so rewarding â each location has its own charm, challenges, and beauty.
Video produced, written, and edited by Tammy Rose.
What started as a picture-perfect getaway quickly turned into chaos. From breathtaking beach views to a near drowning and a scooter crash, this Turks and Caicos travel story captures how fast paradise can change. Click the video above to see what really happened during our island adventure.
When a Dream Vacation in Turks and Caicos Goes Wrong
From gorgeous views to a near drowning and a scooter crash, Tammy and Paul set out on another adventure in Turks and Caicos. Click the link above to watch their story unfold.
