Hey Reader!

We’re guessing you’re deep in summer vacation planning mode right now — and personally, I love that! There’s something magical about dreaming up your next getaway, isn’t there? I'm excited for you! ❤️

In this issue, we’re digging into the sharp drop in international tourism to the U.S. (and why that matters), a super-sweet fact about the Greek island of Tinos (seriously, your sweet tooth will thank you), and a quick reminder about the looming Real ID deadline.

As always, we hope to see you at one of our upcoming virtual events! (There's one on Thursday!)

Think of this newsletter like a layover lounge: a quick pause to fuel up on travel smarts, a little sweetness, and updates that’ll keep you journey-ready—wherever you're headed.

Let’s get into it.

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Learning Events 💻

Join us as Timathea Workman takes us on an unforgettable journey through this North African gem — where ancient medinas meet the Sahara’s golden dunes, Berber villages dot the Atlas Mountains, and every bite of tagine tells a story. From Marrakech’s colorful souks to camel rides under the stars, you’ll get a taste of Morocco’s rich culture, deep history, and timeless magic.

Save your spot now for these upcoming virtual events!

Here's what we've got coming up:

• ​Magical Morocco - A Tapestry of Culture - Thursday, May 8 @ 4 PM Pacific / 7 PM Eastern
• ​May Community Happy Hour - Thursday, May 22 @ 9 AM Pacific / 12 PM Eastern
• ​Tips for Traveling to "Dangerous" Places - Thursday, June 12 @ 9 AM Pacific / 12 PM Eastern
• ​June Community Happy Hour - Thursday, June 26 @ 4 PM Pacific / 7 PM Eastern

We can't wait to see you there!

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Showing the Love 🙏

You may have heard in the news that international tourism to the U.S. is expected to drop significantly this summer, and experts warn that this could have a tremendous impact on many businesses.

The U.S. travel industry, which was worth $1.3 trillion and supported 15 million jobs in 2024, is facing serious challenges in 2025. In March alone, visits from Germany plunged by 28%, reflecting a growing negative sentiment toward the U.S., as well as concerns about being welcomed when a traveler arrives.

Now, more than ever, it’s important to show the love for U.S.-based businesses — that includes hotels, tour guides, restaurants, parks, festivals, local activities... the list goes on.

So whether you’re exploring your hometown or embarking on an adventure somewhere new, your visits this summer will make a big difference — and be greatly appreciated! ❤️ Read more

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Opa! Taste Tinos’ Sweet Side🍬

Tucked into the cobblestone villages of sweet little Tinos, Greece are tiny, family-run shops that have been crafting traditional loukoumia (Greek delights) and amygdalota (almond sweets) for generations.

But here’s what makes it special:

💠 Loukoumia aren’t your average Turkish Delight knock-offs. On Tinos, they're often infused with unique local flavors like rosewater, mastiha, and even citrus from nearby groves. Some families guard their recipes like ancestral treasures!

🌸 Amygdalota, the island’s signature almond sweet, are bite-sized gems made with ground almonds, rose water, and sugar — often shaped like little pears or teardrops. They're naturally gluten-free and traditionally gifted at weddings and name days.

🍯 Of course, then there’s the baklava—the crown jewel of Greek sweets. Layers of buttery phyllo pastry, stuffed with finely ground walnuts, almonds, or pistachios, and soaked in honey syrup. On Tinos, baklava is made with a touch of local flair, often infused with mastiha or citrus.

Walking into one of these shops is like stepping into an edible time capsule. And guess what? We’ll be tasting these very treats this September on our Greece adventure, straight from the source.

✨ Ready to explore the sweet side of the Cyclades? Join us in Greece, Sept 24th through Oct 3rd! There are only three spots left!

GRAB YOUR SPOT!

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Real ID: Time's Up ⏰

Time's up! The deadline has finally arrived. Starting May 7, you’ll need a Real ID (or another TSA-approved form of ID) to board domestic flights in the U.S. Your old driver’s license won’t cut it anymore.

If you show up at airport security without one? You could be grounded.

Now’s the time to double-check your ID and make sure you're travel-ready.

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12 Spots for Summer Fun ❤️

In the vein of showing love to local tourism, here’s a great list to inspire you: 10 awesome vacation spots right here in the U.S.

Whether you're craving wide-open landscapes, small-town charm, coastal breezes, or off-the-beaten-path discoveries, this list has something for every kind of explorer. No passport or Real ID required!

West Coast Summer Escapes ☀️🌲

1. Bend, OR - Mountains, river floats, epic trails, and craft beer everywhere. It’s in my backyard and ridiculously beautiful—of course I had to include it! 😉
2. Catalina Island, CA - Snorkeling, golf carts, and a taste of the Mediterranean just off the SoCal coast.
3. Leavenworth, WA - This Bavarian-style village delivers alpine vibes, bratwurst, and river fun.
4. Joshua Tree, CA - Surreal desert landscapes, funky art, and stargazing you’ll never forget (pic above is my daughters and me in 2023 - SUCH a fun trip!).
5. San Juan Islands, WA - Think whales, kayaks, peaceful island roads, and major unplugged energy.
6. Sedona, AZ - Red rocks, spiritual energy, and trails that’ll have you pulling over every five minutes for just one more photo.

East Coast Summer Escapes 🌿🌊

1. Bar Harbor, ME - Lobsters, lighthouses, and dramatic Acadia cliffs—classic Maine magic.
2. Asheville, NC - Eclectic, artsy, and nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. So many trails, so much local beer.
3. Newport, RI - Sailboats, Gilded Age mansions, and a breezy Cliff Walk by the sea.
4. Cape May, NJ - Colorful Victorians, laid-back beaches, and old-school boardwalk fun.
5. Lake Placid, NY - Mountains, mirror-like lakes, and Olympic history in the Adirondacks.
6. Mystic, CT - Seaside charm, historic ships, and lobster rolls done right.

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We know how it goes… you get home from one trip, and before the laundry’s even done, you’re dreaming of the next one. 😉

If your heart’s already wandering, we’ve still got THREE unforgettable journeys coming up this year—Greece, Peru, and Morocco!—each packed with all the connection, culture, and off-the-beaten-path magic that we live for.

You don’t have to wait for “someday.”

The world is ready when you are.

Let’s make some memories!
Lisa & The Nomadic Network Team 🌍
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