“I’m planting roots, I’m not a tourist.” That’s how Army veteran Isah Kushma describes her decision to buy a home in Costa Rica and pursue legal residency instead of relying on border runs to extend tourist stays. Isah retired from the Army in March 2022 in El Paso, Texas. After …
Whether you’re flying Space-A through Dover AFB or just exploring the region, you’ll find plenty to do nearby. Dover’s history runs deep, with landmarks and museums around every corner. If you prefer the outdoors, you have everything from quiet bay beaches to sprawling state parks within a short drive. From …
If you’ve been to Disney parks in the U.S., Disneyland Paris will feel familiar, with a few notable differences. Disneyland Paris offers significant savings for military families and a wide range of accommodations. It blends familiar favorites with attractions unique to the park, all in a streamlined visit that fits …
On my first trip to Berlin, I had five full days to explore and still only scratched the surface. You could spend weeks there without running out of things to see and do. I went in with a specific focus on history, mainly from WWII forward. What makes Berlin such …
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 …
Tokyo blends centuries of history with one of the most dynamic cityscapes in the world. In this detailed 5-day itinerary, guest contributor and Navy spouse Katie McDonald shares her firsthand recommendations for making the most of your time in Japan’s capital. You could dedicate an entire trip to Tokyo alone, …
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 …