Three months after separating from the U.S. Air Force in 2019, Markeiz Ryan moved to Vietnam for what he thought was a temporary break from life in the United States. Six years later, he calls Vietnam home. He has built a new life in Ho Chi Minh City, developed a …
Military lodging can give you access to incredible places, and sometimes the quarters themselves are part of the experience. Such is the case with the historic Jackson Barracks in New Orleans, LA. Poppin’ Smoke reader and U.S. Army Reserve retiree Bruce Becker and his family recently stayed there and shared …
Looking for a tropical getaway? Take a “hop” to Guam! This U.S. territory in the western Pacific makes a great getaway for military travelers who can fly Space-A right into Andersen Air Force Base (AFB) on the island’s northeastern coast. Andersen AFB is also a stopover on many missions between …
What happens when one member of a couple is ready to fully retire overseas and the other still wants to work? Air Force retiree Valerie Rivera and her husband Ralph, an Army retiree, found a creative solution by obtaining two different residence visas in France. After Ralph wrapped up his …
Space-A travelers to Europe are adjusting to a new reality. As of October 2025, five Patriot Express (PE) routes have ended, including flights between Naval Station (NS) Norfolk and locations in Spain, Italy, and Greece. The PE, aka “the rotator,” is a Department of Defense-contracted commercial flight operated by civilian …
Discover Vicenza, a city that offers beauty, culture, and easy access to the rest of northern Italy. As a military traveler, you can use your earned benefits to travel here with ease. Learn everything you need to know in this article. Where is Vicenza and Why Visit? Vicenza sits in …
What started as a quick trip to Mexico City turned into a brand-new chapter for Army veteran Heather Bruno and her family. They had been planning a move to Portugal, but a last-minute visit to Mexico changed everything. A few days of exploring neighborhoods, checking out schools, and tasting local …
Tucked along Okinawa’s northern coast, about 50 miles from Kadena Air Base, Okuma Beach is a U.S. military recreation area with a prime beachfront location, endless outdoor activities, and relaxing coastal vibes. Whether you’re stationed in Japan or just visiting, it’s the perfect spot to unwind. Poppin’ Smoke reader and …