Eileen Cotter Wright
(She/Her)
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Est. in 2013, Pure Wander aims to inspire, guide, tell stories and offer tips on seeing the world. Come hang with me (Eileen) & all of us while we jet! ✈️
Articles by Eileen Cotter Wright
Thrilling Tail of the Dragon Road Trip: Tennesse to Atlanta, Georgia
Being from New England, I’ve done the road trip from Boston to Maine dozens of times. Sticking to the coastlines, I tend to take Route 95 north and south, and sometimes venture into California or Florida for the occasional fly and drive. But it was time to research something new. This is THE trip for those who love to just drive, baby! Fly into Chattanooga, head to the border of North Carolina, back down to Atlanta.
Vail, Breckenridge & Aspen: A Family Road Trip (with No Snow!)
While my home region of New England is arguably the prettiest in the summertime, we were still itching to get out of town for a little summer adventure. With lots of direct flights on Southwest to Denver (plus our companion pass in action!), we made a quick decision to spend a week on a mini road trip to some of Colorado’s best ski towns…in the shoulder seasons! Each place brings something very special to the table.
It’s All in the Details: A Closer Look at Panama City
I grew up hearing stories about the Panama Canal from my grandmother, a woman who had made it to all seven continents by age 80. She used to explain the ingenuity it took to create such a feat of manpower, connecting the world through trade and commerce. Decades ago, before it was a real cruise stop, she got to see the canal in person. She loved sharing the story, especially since her husband was an engineer and worked on many modern man-made marvels.
Las Vegas Off the Strip: A Girls Trip Guide
It’d been almost 20 years since I’d partied on the Las Vegas Strip in my 20s. It was magical: a dozen study abroad friends met up from all across the country after graduation to have a big celebration and a bit of debauchery. We had a blast at the clubs, the buffets, and maybe had a cigarette or seven and a free well drink at the slots at 3am. Here’s Vegas in 2008! Fast forward two decades and I’m a little more tired, but I still have that night owl spark.
Add Grand Rapids, Michigan to your adventures: A weekend itinerary
So, you’ve tackled New York, Miami, and L.A. You’ve been to the major cities, the theme parks, and have seen the Grand Canyon. There are a few notches under your belt when it comes to trips, but now you want to dig a little deeper. You want to see some lesser-known parts of the U.S. that have a soul and a vibe all their own. You might want a cool place for the girls to go for the weekend, or an easy destination for a family with a short flight and lots to do.
The 7 Best Soccer Bars in Boston for Watching the World Cup
Boston Sporting Events Restaurants + Bars by Eileen Cotter Wright Jun 2, 2025 Boston loves its champions. With 39 titles across baseball, football, basketball, and hockey, this city is sports-obsessed. Come 2026, this will surely spill over as a passion roaring just as loud for the World Cup’s soccer stars. The New England Revolution’s arrival in the 1990s was one of the catalysts that sparked a local soccer boom.
Casually Eat Your Way Around Mexico City: 48 Hours
I could have eaten my way around Mexico City for weeks and still barely scratched the surface. I’m happy to recommend these fun spots, mostly for casual eats and small bites. I think they embody a good spirit of adventure and taste for the city. If you plan to stay longer, definitely do some additional research to enjoy a wide range of cuisines in Mexico City (or simply extend your stay elsewhere, like Oaxaca!).
Masters of Craft: A Sweet and Savory Showdown in Mexico City
Within 24 hours of landing in Mexico City from the freezing airport in Boston, I was soaked in sweat, chopping up about 50 pounds of beets. The open-air restaurant was shaded from the sun. However, that didn’t help much as I cut blood-red veggies into small chunks hunched over a rustic wood table. I had thought lunch would be ready when we got to this restaurant in Xochimilco. Instead, we were thrown into this mini-competition to make our own meal from the vegetables and herbs grown on-site.
We loved living in a city by Boston for 12 years, but the cons kept adding up. Now, we're happily settled further south. Original
I've had the privilege of living in and around Boston for at least 12 years. After renting for years, my husband and I bought our first house in Quincy, a city in the greater Boston area, in 2018. Buying in this city felt tough with just our budget, so we split a two-family home with two 800-square-foot units with a friend for $598,000. We loved having a house on the subway line and living in a city minutes from Boston.
Feel like a local ski bum in North Conway, New Hampshire
Night markets in Thailand, steaming bowls of ramen down little alleys in Japan, and five-star hotels overlooking the Pitons of St. Lucia. All of these experiences have vastly impressed my husband when we travel together. But I think, honestly, If he had to choose a vacation with all his family, he’d go back to New Hampshire in the U.S. again and again. I’ve grown to love the familiarity too, which is just slightly different from home, but feels fun like a real trip to visit.
All about Etsy: Holiday gifts for travelers
I’m in the age of practicality when it comes to travel gear. I like to take trips with as minimal things as possible and utilize the space in my head and my suitcase to its full potential. With that said: I also am a sucker for a cozy airplane sweater. Or a cute wallet to hold all my travel documents. Traveling is supposed to be fun and even a bit indulgent! So it’s perfectly alright in my book to have a few creature comforts for the journey.
Travel Experiences and Giving Back Gift Guide 2024
Experiences always win over things in our family and friends crew. We’re very fortunate to have a great homebase full of fun toys, a full kitchen, clothes, and anything else we could possibly need. I’m working on being a minimalist as best I can around the holidays too. We reuse our favorite decorations, avoid single-use plastics, and try to purchase things that will last a long time. When it comes to gifting, I much rather book my family a trip than use our funds on anything else.
The 2024 Delicious Gifts to Inspire Travel
Honestly, I travel for the food. I love being outdoors hiking, or immersing in local culture. I have a blast at music festivals abroad and reading a great book on the beach too. But really, I dream of al fresco restaurants with delectable tasting menus, cooking demonstrations suing only the freshest local ingredients, and night markets filled with tasty curiosities.
The 2024 Travel Gift Guide for Those Who Bring the Kids Along!
Babies grow so fast, but it doesn’t feel that way when you’re stuck with them on a long flight! Luckily there’s solidarity in millions of parents and caregivers before you. They’ve all braved planes, trains, and automobiles to make lasting memories with littles. Or simply get them to grandma across the country when you need a break. Either way, there’s some great gifts you can give others with babies, kids, or yourself this holiday season that can make travel a little bit easier.
The 2024 Gift Guide to Celebrate Sustaining our World
Some live for this time of year, others prefer to head out to a tropical island and wait out the holiday chaos. I get it: I like a balance of both. During this season of gift giving, I focus on things for my loved ones that are personal, sustainable, and hopefully something they will use for a long time. As we do every year for our recommendations, we really work hard to choose gifts that amplify small businesses, marginalized groups, and that are friendly for our planet.
Time for Tucson, Arizona: A Great Guide
It’s rare that I spend more than a week in a destination. It was such a luxury to take our time in Tucson, Arizona, check out some attractions, and really feel at home while doing so. This plucky town is about a 90-minute drive from Phoenix. Use Tucson as a base for admiring national parks and mountains, digging in birria tacos, and learning a little about local indigenous culture.
Lovely London with Littles: Best things by a local
I was nervous the first time bringing my kids into a pub because they’re a bit young and rowdy. We walked into the Brompton Cross early afternoon when only a sprinkling of older people were frequenting the bar and the tables. Within minutes, big smiles erupted throughout the pub as my husband announced, “It’s baby’s first pub!” Seeing cute puppies and babies in pubs is something I really miss about London.
Savor and Explore: Salt Lake City's Epic Escape
UPDATED JUNE 2024! It would take hours to reach towering mountains from my own home city. I can see why so many people love to call Salt Lake City (SLC for short) home, especially those who love the outdoors. Not only is the urban sprawl itself inviting, bright, and fun, you can reach several national parks and ski resorts in a short amount of time. I’ve visited a few times and this last experience won me over completely.
What Can RoutePerfect Help You with for Your Trip Planning?
Trying to organize a quality holiday can be pretty stressful, especially if you’re a perfectionist like me. You’ll spend hours pouring over different hotels, comparing their price, amenities, proximity to activities, food options and so much more. And that’s just the hotel, then you’ve got to think about what you’re actually going to do while you’re there. What are the best sights? Where is the best food? Have you considered transportation? What if there are any delays?
What to Skip and What not to miss in Oahu, Hawaii
It’s a wonder of nature that craggy, green mountains can seemingly burst from the ground so close to sea level. This is what brings people to Oahu, Hawaii, in droves. The drama of this incredible landscape and deep rooted, diverse culture is a treasure to experience first-hand. For some days I lounged in the near-perfect leeward side dripping with luxury resorts.
River boat fun during family French holiday in Southern France
My retired father called one day and said he and my mom were ready for a European adventure. One of his dreams was to travel through France on a family French holiday… by canal boat. I knew a little about river cruising and thought that’s what he meant of course. Sounded relaxing. Fun. Not quite. His idea was a canal boat with just us four! He found a company called Locaboat that lent Pénichettes, or French river boats, out to guests all over Europe.
Hike, Camp, Stargaze: Your Bryce Canyon Adventure in Utah Starts Now!
When you have five national parks, how can you choose only one to visit in the state of Utah? Normally I’d like to road trip though and experience as much as I can. But this trip to the Beehive State was for work and a conference. Wanderful and Visit Utah graciously hosted my return trip to Bryce (20 years later!) for a short trip before the conference in Salt Lake. Here’s a rough guide to get a taste for Bryce Canyon National Park if your time is limited to a couple days.
St. Augustine, Florida's Charming Must-Sees: A Journey Through Time
There’s something familiar, cozy and laid-back about Florida. It often draws me in when I want to get away for a while. It’s familiar and breezy to navigate, yet feels far enough to be a tropical getaway. I usually spend time on the Gulf coast for trips, or near Daytona Beach to see family. But this time I checked out a new destination. St. Augustine is nestled on Florida’s Historic Coast, known for its interesting past of Spanish colonial occupation, battles, and indigenous traditions.
Remarkable women rug weavers in Oaxaca, Mexico
We often celebrate firsts: the first person on the moon, the first to invent the lightbulb, or the first and fastest in a racecar. But what about an everyday first that is still just as extraordinary? The Vida Nueva Women’s Weaving Cooperative just outside Oaxaca City, Mexico, accomplished just that. (This story was originally told by founder Pastora, translated and paraphrased.
Six Smooth Catamaran Tours Around the World to Make You Swoon
There’s something magic about the water that unites destinations under a common beauty. I grew up on the water and no matter where I live, I’m drawn back to the coast. Swimming, boating, sailing, and even fishing is in my bones. I always jump at the opportunity to experience a catamaran tour—or sailing afternoon. From shimmering lakes to choppy seas, it’s an indescribable feeling to sail through beautiful bodies of water.
Babies on the road! 2023 Gift Guide
You have a baby and traveling ends, right? Sure, things look a little different for my trips now that I have two daughters. There’s definitely a LOT more gear. But with some careful planning and strategic packing, I’m having just as much fun traveling with them as I did solo. It’s a process, but I’ve tested out what works and doesn’t work to streamline our experience.
Camden, Maine's delights during shoulder seasons
When it’s hot in the northeast, we go further north! There’s been some scorcher summer days this season, so utilizing Maine’s welcoming coastal towns brings some relief. But really, all year round is perfect for Maine, from hiking and swimming in the spring and summer, to skiing and leaf peeping in the fall and winter. Camden, Maine is the newest place on my list of favorites to visit. You could definitely extend a road trip from Boston to Maine and visit Camden for a few days.
Stay a while on South Carolina's Hammock Coast
South Carolina’s Hammock Coast is comprised of six coastal communities. I had the pleasure of experiencing half of them in just over a week: Pawleys Island, Murrells Inlet and Georgetown. Here’s a personal guide to some highlights of the Hammock Coast well worth checking out. On paper, Georgetown is a historic South Carolina city, being the third oldest in the state. However, the rich past runs deep in West African heritage, evolving into Gullah culture that connects to food, art, and local lore.
Spend an Oceanside Week in Nosara, Costa Rica
If you had a week to go anywhere, where would you go? Would it change if you had a toddler in tow? Recently an opportunity came to travel somewhere from the northeast U.S. for a week. It was winter, cold, and blah. Our small crew wanted to experience a new place together, but also find ways to unwind and get off the grid. Costa Rica won by a landslide. I knew rainforest hiking wouldn’t be doable this time with a two-year-old.
The 2022 Gift Guides: A little love of Home
It’s that time. It’s the end of the line and the holiday season to wrap up the year.. Sometimes, it feels like it may never come. But here we are again after a wild, challenging, yet often wonderful, year. Every time we hand-pick our gift guide features, we really try to level up. This year, we’re doing a little more of what we love at home, as traveling has been a little thinner in 2022. I did manage a few great domestic trips to Florida, Missouri/Kansas City and Arizona.
The 2022 Gift Guides: Foodie finds
Food is central to many of my most vivid travel memories. Some complex curry can take me right back to Sri Lanka, or a perfect cup of tea and shortbread reminds me instantly of Scotland. I love giving foodie gifts to loved ones during the holidays. As consumables they don’t clutter up space and can be enjoyed right away. I also try to choose gifts that enhance food and support passionate global cooking pursuits.
Fall Travel Tips for 2022!
Summer weather was not meant for me. Sure, I’ll take a palm tree and a pina colada any day. But when that fresh and crispy air of autumn rolls in, I’m ready. Fall might be my favorite time of year, which means it’s also my favorite time to travel. I know we are in the thick of the season, but now is the perfect time to plan a quick getaway or be prepped for a trip the next time this season rolls around. Don’t fret: I have you covered. What to wear for fall travel?
Food and Female Empowerment in Oaxaca, Mexico
I’m still processing the experience I had in Oaxaca, Mexico. As my first real trip away from my daughter, I was all around feeling anxious – and guilty. Was it OK to start traveling again? Did I deserve it? Is seeing the world still important to me when a bigger piece of my heart is at home? Every second was worth it. Purposeful Nomad: Travel with Intention had us deep diving into the spirit of women in Oaxaca, who celebrated their Zaptoec and Mexican heritage through talented artisan skills.
Father’s day sorted for the traveling dads!
Let’s go traveling daddy-o’s! Father’s Day really celebrates all those who care for others. We’re raising a glass to the dads, the ‘funcles’, the cousins, the babysitting boys, the nanny men, the father-like figures, the moms who play both roles, the dads who play both roles, and everyone in between. If you’d like to support and appreciate the masculine mentors in your life who also love travel-themed, unique gifts and experiences, we have you covered.
Time for Tucson, Arizona: A great guide
It’s rare that I spend more than a week in a destination. It was such a luxury to take our time in Tucson and really feel at home. This plucky town is about a 90-minute drive from Phoenix. Use Tucson as a base for admiring national parks and mountains, digging in birria tacos, and learning a little about local indigenous culture.
What to see in Plymouth, Massachusetts besides the rock
Plymouth, Massachusetts is HUGE. I technically live in Plymouth and I’m still almost a 30-minute drive from downtown. Downtown is where you’ll find the famed Plymouth Rock, the supposed spot where pilgrims first landed on North American soil. But honestly? Don’t just come to Plymouth for cringey pilgrim waxed statues, questionable historical references, and a rock on the ground. Actually, you could skip all that and still have a fabulous time.
Newport, Rhode Island: girlfriend getaways in the off season!
While researching pretty destinations in New England we could take a little drive to see, I remembered Newport. It’s a seaside town in Rhode Island I hadn’t visited before despite growing up only 90 minutes away. This late winter was the perfect time to finally see what all the fuss was about those famed mansions! You’ll be spoilt for choce with many hotels complementing the area in coastal and nautical charm.
Where to next in Asia? Philippines!
I wish this trip was already booked. When I think of where we’d love to go next in Asia, I am always drawn to the Philippines. Not only is it a gorgeous country full of beautiful cities, shorelines and culture, I have some family connections there too. My aunt and two cousins are from Manila, and I always hoped to visit there to see where they grew up.
Give and Give Back: Pure Wander’s Annual Gift Guide (with a twist!)
It’s a time to reevaluate, grow and re-adjust to what’s most important. We’ve loved putting together our guides for years, but after a tumultuous 2021, we want to highlight something new. Priorities are changing, as is our view on holiday presents for loved ones. So we ask you think mindfully about giving this year – including to great causes for positive change and organizations that take care of those in need.
Plan for P-Town: 24 Hours in Provincetown, Massachusetts
There’s never enough time in the day to fully appreciate Provincetown, Massachusetts. This colorful spot on just the tip of Cape Cod welcomes all walks of life to fully be themselves. Regular shopping, dining, and beach lounging opportunities are abound. There’s also a thriving nightlife scene full of animated drag shows, pool parties, and more.
An Off-Season, Safe Trip to Chatham, Massachusetts
Please Adhere To Local Regulations When Traveling Currently In 2021. In Fact, We Urge You To Do Your Part By Staying Home Whenever Possible! Avoid Travel Even If It’s Permitted, And Eventually Get Vaccinated To Keep Our Global Community Safe! The quiet calm of morning enveloped by a gentle snowfall and steaming cup of coffee is something really magical to experience on Cape Cod.
Road-Trippin': Pure Wander's Holiday Gift Guide
Royce Luxury Travel Grooming Kit Toothbrush.. check.. razor.. check.. nail clippers..check. Shorten your travel checklist by just writing Royce Luxury Travel Grooming Kit…check! This genuine leather encased grooming kit eliminates the need for an extensive list of travel necessities. Its stylish zip up design unfolds to present an array of items to keep you looking dapper on your travels. An indispensable baggage companion, loaded with luxury toiletries that keeps you looking your best.
What to Do in Philadelphia: The Perfect Weekend
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is much more than Ben Franklin and an old broken bell. I’ve had the pleasure of exploring what to do in Philadelphia over the years, and love the city as a spot for a weekend out-of-town or an east coast road trip stop. I have the low-down on everything from the best margarita in town and the newest penthouse lounge to the best suit-style accommodations and, of course, how to avoid lines at the Liberty Bell.
Travel Buddies: The 6 Best Vitamins and Supplements to Take on Your Trip
While it’s best to get your daily vitamins and minerals from the food you eat, sometimes travelling can throw a spanner in our dietary plans – which can be an exciting, adventurous thing! We love to try new foods while in fresh destinations, from Pad Thai in Bangkok to the perfect pancakes in Chicago. But extra indulgences can lead to feeling fatigued, bloated or just not our best. Not to mention, other factors such as jetlag, lack of sleep and potential illness can also leave travellers sluggish.
The 12 Best Travel Skincare Products You Need in Your Carry-On
When traveling, many people find that they have to combat all sorts of new challenges. Luckily, however, most of them are good challenges! If your body is sensitive to change, it’s important to maintain routine even when you’re on a trip. This is especially true for your skin, which can react to everything from climate changes to what you eat. When planning your carry-on, you’ll want to make room for some skincare products to ensure you feel great while in transit.
Bangkok: Wild and Wonderful Experiences
When you land in a city of eight million people, how do you even know where to start? After taking a taxi and being dropped off more than a mile from our hotel, landing in Bangkok quickly became a game of dodging crowds and trying to translate street signs. Once you get your bearings though, it can be a place of excitement and warm welcome. From the elegant and golden Wat Pho temple to the bustling Siam Square, there’s so much to see and do there.
What's so amazing about a little town called Heiligenhafen in Germany, near the Danish border? I grew up near Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and this spot has to be a sister destination to New England. With boardwalk promenades, rolling waves, sea-grass dunes and nautically-themed businesses, this really is a beautiful place.
A Hamburg Music Festival and More in Germany
I’ve countries the massive German road trip through Bavaria and gone to a few of the major cities. Of all the countries in Europe that are the easiest to navigate and the friendliest, I’d say Germany is at the top of my list. So when the opportunity to travel back for a Hamburg music festival, I jumped at the change to explore more of Germany, especially up north. You can find flights straight from NYC to Hamburg on United, or other major US to cities to nearby German cities.
How You and Your Friends Can Have the Ultimate Group Getaway Together
Are you and your friends thinking of heading off on a group getaway? With so many places to potentially explore, choosing where to go can be really difficult. So, to help give you a little inspiration, here you’ll discover some great tips to help ensure you and your friends can have the ultimate group getaway together. Ideally, you’ll want to head to a destination you’ve never been before.
Mirbeau Inn and Spa: A Woodsy, Elegant Escape in Plymouth, MA
What’s better than a spa vacation? A spa vacation in your backyard! Growing up near Cape Cod, Massachusetts, I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy sun and sand within easy reach. But sometimes you take for granted what’s closest to you – I haven’t stayed in a hotel or resort in-state for years. My mother, a Plymouth local, had always raved to me about this secret spa retreat tucked in the woods off the highway.
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