Here at A Dangerous Business, I write about adventures and destinations all around the world in the hopes that I can inspire you to travel to some of them yourself. I love to use my own experiences to encourage people to explore the world – but I don't believe that you have to quit your job and become a full-time nomad in order to do it.
In fact, that's an unrealistic goal for the vast majority of people.
So, instead of selling you on a dream that isn't really feasible, the goal of this site has always been to show you how you can fit more travel and adventure into the lifestyle that you already have.
POSTS FOR INSPIRATION
Keeping in line with the mission of this site, I've decided to launch the 10-Day Adventure Project.
This “project” will focus on bucket-list-style adventures you can have in two weeks or less. Many people (and Americans especially) only have two weeks (10 days) of paid vacation days per year, so this project will focus on all sorts of adventures you can have within that time frame.
The goal will be to cover a variety of travel styles and destinations, from independent travel itineraries, to long-weekend getaways and city breaks, to reviews of guided tours and excursions.
Check out my favorite 2-weeks-or-less holidays below!
SELF-GUIDED TRIP ITINERARIES
NORTH AMERICA
A Perfect 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary for the American Southwest
Want to see all the top sights in Utah and Arizona? This 10-day road trip itinerary visits the Mighty 5 National Parks in Utah, along with amazing natural sights like Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon.
An Epic 12-Day Road Trip Itinerary for Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas
The Northern USA is another great spot for a road trip. This particular one includes 8 national parks and monuments, along with unique wildlife and history.
The Perfect 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary for Oregon in Summer
Oregon has everything from mountains to waterfalls to wine country to a beautiful coastline. This 10-day road trip itinerary will help you see all the best spots in Oregon – including a couple that you probably haven't heard of before!
The Perfect One Week West Virginia Road Trip Itinerary for the Outdoors Lover
If you love the outdoors and getting off the beaten path a bit, then a road trip in West Virginia may be the perfect fit for you! Check out this 7-day West Virginia road trip itinerary, filled with adventure.
The Ultimate 7-Day Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary
The Florida Keys are an excellent spot to go slow and enjoy a road trip. Here's a 7-day itinerary that includes activities on multiple islands and Key West.
The Perfect 10-Day Michigan Road Trip Itinerary in Fall
Want to travel in the autumn to see amazing fall colors in the US? Don't overlook northern Michigan! This fall road trip itinerary covers the best of the Mitten State in the fall, including Mackinac Island, the Upper Peninsula, and Traverse City.
A Perfect Finger Lakes Road Trip Itinerary for 5 or 7 Days
Explore the wineries, waterfalls, quaint small towns, and lakes of Finger Lakes Wine Country in this road trip itinerary perfect for either 5 or 7 days.
The Perfect 7-Day California Desert Road Trip Itinerary
This desert road trip itinerary starts and ends in Las Vegas, and includes sites like Death Valley, Joshua Tree, Alabama Hills, Valley of Fire, and more!
EUROPE
10 Days in Ireland: The Perfect Irish Road Trip Itinerary
Want to plan an independent road trip around the Emerald Isle? This 10-day road trip itinerary will help you hit all the best spots in Ireland.
An Epic 10-Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary for the Best Iceland Road Trip
Take a memorable road trip around Iceland on the iconic Ring Road. This 10-day itinerary covers all the major highlights, and then some.
A 10-Day Itinerary for Iceland in Winter (Without Renting a Car)
Want to head to Iceland in winter, but don't feel comfortable driving in the snow? Then this itinerary is for you!
The Perfect 10-Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary for the Whisky Lover
From Edinburgh to the isle of Islay to Speyside and the Malt Whisky Trail, this itinerary is perfect for any whisky-lover (or anyone wanting to learn more about it and see lots of Scotland along the way)!
The Perfect 10-Day London and Paris Itinerary for Your Dream Europe Trip
Plan your dream trip to Europe using this detailed day-by-day itinerary for London and Paris! Spend 10 days exploring the highlights of these amazing capital cities.
The Perfect 10-Day Itinerary for Portugal (Without a Car)
If you're planning your first trip to Portugal, here's a great itinerary you can steal that includes Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, the Douro Valley, and more and doesn't require a rental car!
Road Tripping Around Norway's OTHER Northern Islands
This weeklong road trip itinerary focuses on some of Norway's lesser-visited northern islands, including Senja and the Vesterålen Islands.
A Travel Itinerary for 10 Days in Norway
This 10-day itinerary focuses on the best of southern and central Norway, with stops in Oslo, Trondheim, Alesund, Geiranger, and more.
A Perfect 10-Day Itinerary for Norway in Winter
Yes, you can totally visit Norway in the winter! And this itinerarywill help you see the best parts of the country, whether you want to see the fjords or the Northern Lights.
AFRICA
How to See the Best of South Africa in 12 Days
This itinerary highlights the very best of South Africa, from its wildlife in Kruger National Park to its vibrant cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.
How to Spend 1 Week in the Seychelles
Looking for a luxury island escape that hasn't been done to death on Instagram? Consider heading to the Seychelles, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean.
OCEANIA
New Zealand Road Trip: The Perfect Itinerary if You Only Have 2 Weeks
Yes, you CAN explore both the North and South islands of New Zealand even if you only have two weeks. This jam-packed itinerary hits all the highlights – and then some!
CARIBBEAN
The Perfect Aruba Itinerary: 5 Days on One Happy Island
Aruba makes for the perfect Caribbean getaway any time of year. This itinerary is a mix of adventurous and relaxing, depending on what kind of trip you're after.
5 Days in San Juan, Puerto Rico: The Perfect Caribbean Getaway
Make the most of 5 days in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with this detailed guide that included what to do, where to stay, and what to eat.
GUIDED TOURS
EUROPE
Hopping Around the Hebrides with Haggis Adventures
Scotland's Hebridean Islands are magical – maybe even more magical than the Highlands! And this tour with fun-loving Haggis Adventures is a great way to get a budget-friendly taste of both.
The Scottish Highlands with Highland Explorer Tours
While I've loved the tours I've done with Haggis Adventures in Scotland, this one with Highland Explorer Tours is slightly more luxurious, yet still hits all the highlights.
Having a “Highland Fling” with Haggis Adventures
Here's a look at Haggis' Highland Fling tour. It's geared toward backpackers/budget travelers, but is SO FUN and really does pack in the best of Scotland in 5 days. This tour made me fall in love with Scotland.
Geeking Out on an Outlander Tour of Scotland
How does a themed tour of Scotland sound? This 3-day tour through the Highlands is all about following in the footsteps of the characters and real historical events from “Outlander” – definitely a must for any fan!
Discovering Ireland with Shamrocker Adventures
Want to see the highlights of Ireland and Northern Ireland in just a few days? This tour with Shamrocker Adventures is perfect – and also pretty easy on the budget.
Exploring Eastern Europe with Intrepid Travel
My obsession with Eastern Europe started all the way back in college, and this 17-day tour (while slightly longer than two weeks) hit every single place I dreamed of visiting, from Budapest to Transylvania to Istanbul.
Exploring Russia with Viking River Cruises: The Highlights
Curious about visiting Russia? This 13-day cruise hits on all the highlights, including major cities, smaller villages, plus plenty of history and opulent churches.
Christmas Markets with Viking River Cruises: What's It Really Like?
Find out what it's like to go on a Rhine river cruise during the Christmas market season. (Hint: it's awesome!)
6 Highlights from an Active River Cruise with Avalon Waterways
A glimpse at a new kind of river cruise: an active river cruise in Europe with Avalon Waterways.
AFRICA
Egypt Experience Tour: Exploring Egypt Safely with Intrepid Travel
If you've ever dreamed of visiting Egypt but have been hesitant about going on your own, you'll want to read this review of a great 12-day tour that hits all the highlights of ancient Egypt.
Morocco Uncovered: The Best Morocco Tour with Intrepid Travel
With its diverse landscapes, unique culture, and amazing food, Morocco is unlike anywhere else you'll ever visit. And this tour allows you to see the very BEST of Morocco in 2 weeks.
Overlanding in Southern Africa: Everything You Need to Know
To be fair, this trip was a little longer than two weeks (it was 19 days), but I really do think that overlanding is THE way to experience Africa!
East Africa Highlights: Kenya and Tanzania with Rock My Adventure
For the perfect mix of wildlife viewing and cultural immersion, this East Africa tour gets two thumbs up. It covers all the highlights in Kenya and Tanzania, from the Maasai Mara to the Serengeti to the island of Zanzibar.
ASIA
Traveling in Vietnam with Intrepid Travel
This is one of my favorite guided tours I've ever done! It features all the highlights of Vietnam, fro Ha Long Bay to Hoi An to Ho Chi Minh City.
Traveling in Cambodia with Intrepid Travel
Want to visit Cambodia but don't want to go solo? Booking a tour like this one is a great happy medium, ensuring you'll see all the best spots with the least amount of stress.
Turkey Encompassed with Intrepid Travel: A Great Intro to Turkey
If you want to explore Turkey beyond Istanbul, then this tour is for you! You'll visit ancient sites, little towns on the sea, and everything in between.
NORTH AMERICA
Everything You Need to Know About Riding the Rocky Mountaineer Train in Canada
Looking for a luxury train journey that traverses through some of the most stunning scenery in the world? Then you'll want to check out the Rocky Mountaineer.
SOUTH / CENTRAL AMERICA
Exploring Ecuador on a Shoestring with Intrepid Travel
This budget-friendly tour is a great introduction to South America. Highlights include overnighting in the Amazon and adventuring in Baños.
Highlights of Belize and Guatemala with Intrepid Travel
Looking for a fun, laid-back introduction to Central America that includes the best of the jungle AND the sea? Then this 8-day trip with Intrepid Travel is one worth checking out.
OCEANIA
Exploring Middle Earth with Red Carpet Tours
Are you a Lord of the Rings fan who dreams of exploring New Zealand? Then this LOTR-focused tour is made especially for you.
WEEKEND GETAWAY GUIDES
NORTH AMERICA
5 Days in Savannah: The Perfect Day-By-Day Itinerary
Explore the Hostess City with this 5-day itinerary. Stroll pretty squares, visit historic cemeteries, eat amazing food, and even take a trip to the beach!
How to Spend 72 Hours in Washington, DC
Here are all the highlights you can pack into three days in America's capital city, from monuments and museums, to cool neighborhoods to explore.
A Couples' Long Weekend Getaway to Chicago
Chicago is one of my favorite cities to spend a long weekend in in the U.S. Here are all the must-dos for your first time in Chicago.
Solo in Chicago: The Perfect Itinerary for a Solo Weekend Trip to the Windy City
Looking to plan a solo trip to Chicago? Here's a great 3-day itinerary that will help you love your time alone in the Windy City.
3 Days in Scottsdale, Arizona: 3 Itineraries for 3 Different Types of Travelers
Scottsdale, Arizona, makes for a great long weekend getaway destination, whether you love art, food, the outdoors, spas, or a mixture of all of the above.
A Long Winter Weekend in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Your guide to a magical winter weekend in the college town of Ann Arbor, Michigan. It can be cold and snowy, yes, but that doesn't mean you can't have a cozy weekend!
3 Days in Detroit: How to Spend a Long Weekend in Motor City
Detroit is an often-overlooked city in the Midwest, but it's actually awesome! Here's how to spend a long weekend in Detroit, visiting museums and parks and eating lots of good food.
Stepping Back in Time for 2 Days on Mackinac Island
Spend a perfect weekend on Mackinac Island, the Michigan getaway that will make you feel like you've traveled back in time. Explore the car-free island by bike, stay in a historic hotel, eat lots of fudge, and more!
The Best Things to do in Lexington, KY: The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary
Explore the Horse Capital of the World over a long weekend, soaking in all the history, art – and maybe some Kentucky bourbon, too.
How to Have a Classy Girls' Weekend in New Orleans
New Orleans is one of my favorite cities in the US for a long weekend break – and it's even better if you go with your best girl friends!
A Romantic Weekend Getaway to Niagara Falls
Visiting both sides of Niagara Falls makes for the perfect romantic weekend getaway. Here are all the must-dos on both the American and Canadian sides of the Falls.
A Couples' Long Weekend Getaway to Orlando
Who says adults can't have fun in Orlando? See what fun you can get up to at both Disney and Universal Orlando over a long weekend with your significant other.
2 Days in Edmonton: A Summer Weekend in Alberta’s Capital
Alberta isn't ALL about the mountains and national parks. Before your trip to Banff or Alberta, consider spending a weekend in Edmonton!
A Weekend in Winnipeg: The Best Things to Do in Winnipeg, Manitoba
Things to do, see, and eat in Winnipeg, the largest city in Manitoba, Canada. Winnipeg often gets overlooked for other cities in Canada, but is a great place to visit.
EUROPE
5 Days in Paris: The Perfect Paris Itinerary for Your First Visit
The City of Love is a bucket list travel destination for a reason. Use this 5-day itinerary to help plan a memorable first trip to Paris!
5 Days in London: The Perfect London Itinerary for Your First Visit
You could easily spend weeks in London and still not see it all, but this 5-day itinerary will help you see all the highlights on your first visit.
3 Days in Dublin: The Perfect Dublin Itinerary for First-Timers
Explore Ireland's capital city thoroughly with this 3-day itinerary that's perfect for a long weekend visit.
How to Spend 3 Days in Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland's capital isn't huge, but there's still plenty to do here to fill up three days. Check out this long weekend guide to the best of Edinburgh.
Discovering Inverness: 3 Days in Scotland's Highland Capital
While Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, Inverness is the “unofficial” capital of the Scottish Highlands. This guide hits all the highlights you can see in 72 hours.
A Weekend in London's East End
London is much too big of a city to cover in just a long weekend, but you can absolutely focus on one part of the city at a time. Here's how to make the most of a weekend in London's funky East End.
How to Spend 3 Days in Oslo, Norway
Norway's capital city is way cooler than most people realize. With a cool waterfront, both indoor and outdoor art, and some unique museums, there's a lot to do in Oslo over a long weekend.
3 Days in Lisbon, Portugal: The Ultimate Lisbon Itinerary and To-Do List
Use this detailed itinerary to plan the perfect long weekend in Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal. The best views and a trip to Belem included!
2 Days in Porto: The City in Portugal You Shouldn’t Skip
Your guide to an epic 2 days in Porto, Portugal's oft-underrated northern city. Learn how to pack in food, history, sightseeing, and more even if you only have 2 days.
3 Days in Bologna: What to Do in Italy’s Foodie Capital
The historic city of Bologna is often referred to as the “foodie capital” of Italy. This itinerary includes all the historic AND delicious things to do there in 3 days.
AFRICA
72 Hours in Cape Town, South Africa
Three days isn't really long enough to truly explore Cape Town, but here are all the highlights you can see in 72 hours, from Table Mountain to Boulders Beach.
3 Days in Marrakech: The Perfect Itinerary for Your First Visit
Your guide to what to see and do in a long weekend in one of Morocco's most vibrant cities. You can pretty much pack everything in to just 3 days!
Zanzibar Itinerary: How to Spend 4 Days on the Spice Island
Looking for a tropical getaway on Zanzibar that takes in both the beautiful beaches AND the island's unique history? Then this 4-day itinerary is for you!
SOUTH / CENTRAL AMERICA
Sisters Getaway: Discovering Little Corn Island in Style
Looking for a great girlfriend getaway? Or perhaps somewhere off-the-beaten-path for a romantic retreat? Yemaya Island Hideaway on Little Corn Island in Nicaragua is perfect for both!
ASIA
I don't have any long guides to Asia, but here are some shorter city guides you can check out:
- 24 Hours in Bangkok, Thailand
- The Best Things to Do in the Imperial City of Hue, Vietnam
- Highlights from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
RELATED: How to Plan the Perfect Long Weekend Trip
Which destination(s) would you like to see me explore and highlight next?
The 10-Day Adventure Project is really all about YOU and how I can help inspire you to fit more travel into your normal life, so let me know what you'd like to see!
Love the itinerary for Oregon. Do you have one for Colorado?
I don’t, I’m afraid, though it is on my list of states to eventually write one for!
I and 3 of my girlfriends go on weekly hikes on local trails. Last Sept we hiked Yosemite and then in Dec went up to Niagara Falls. Amazing experiences, esp since this whole hiking thing is new-ish to me….I didn’t start until late 2020, when I was 59! This year, we have booked a trip to Moab and Sedona. Apart from that, I have booked a 10-day family trip to Rome for this coming May. There is SO much to see and so little time to see it all, so when I googled Day Trips from Rome (our home base) and your blog came up, I was sucked in! I so look forward to your newsletters and dissecting every inch of your blog for all your highlights and advise!
How about a trip cross country (USA)? I’m doing that with my mother this summer!
USA road trips are my favorite! But it would be tough to fit an entire cross-country trip in to just 10 days. 😉
Do you have a 10 day project to see New England in the fall?
Not yet I’m afraid! It’s on my to-do list, but I haven’t done that road trip yet!
I FOUND YOUR WEBSITE VERY HELPFUL!!!
Great way to encourage people to go on an adventure. But sometimes even 10 days is too much. Have you ever just did a bikeride in your country and just camped when you were exhausted. Great way to go on an adventure close by with minimal days spend :)!
Can’t say that I’m much of a cyclist or camper, but of course that could be a great adventure!
I love your blog! Your attitude toward fitting travel into your life really matches my own. My husband and I are following your perfect 10 day itinerary for Norway in Winter during our Christmas holiday this year. It really helped me pare down my too big travel aspirations and focus the trip. We’re so excited for the trip. Thank you for helping make the planning of it so much less overwhelming.
I’m so happy to be able to help – and I’m jealous of your Norway trip! Norway is magical in the winter.
Would love any advice on Japan.
I haven’t been there yet, but it’s definitely on my list! The husband and I are talking about planning a trip there in 2020, maybe for the Olympics!