Mark Morin, travel writer and founder of The Happy Traveler blog

Welcome to theHappy Traveler

I am Mark Morin, the Happy Traveler. I’m a travel enthusiast, foodie, wine aficionado.

This website devoted to travel, food and discovery the world over, but mostly where I’ve had the pleasure to visit in the company of my wife Danielle.

Our goal is to share our travel experiences and give you helpful tips on where to go, what to do, and of course, what to eat to travel happy.

Recent stories ⸻

Wet tiled terrace overlooking Lisbon rooftops on a quiet winter day

Lisbon in Winter: Rain, Light, and the Pleasure of Slowing Down

Lisbon in winter reveals itself slowly. Rain deepens the city’s colors,…

Cliffside homes overlooking the ocean in Albufeira with a wooden boardwalk.

Albufeira in Winter: A Coastal Town Meant to Be Lived In

Winter changes Albufeira. Crowds thin, routines form, and the town settles into…

Porto Ribeira district at dusk, with rabelo boats on the Douro River and historic hillside buildings lit up in the background.

Porto in Winter: When Rain, Stone, and Silence Make the City Better

Winter doesn’t soften Porto. It sharpens it. With fewer crowds and a slower…

Two people walking along the sandy beach in Pêra, Algarve, on a bright winter day with waves and dramatic clouds overhead.

The Algarve in Winter: A Snowbird’s Guide to Sun, Seafood, and the Best Coastal Towns

Winter in the Algarve reveals a quieter, more authentic side of Portugal. From…

Explore our travel content

THE PLACES WE GO

We just love to get away from it all, exploring new destinations and cultures, savouring the local cuisine and seeing the sights at a leisurely pace.

Happy Travels!

Discover wonderful destinations we’ve had the pleasure to visit. You’ll enjoy our detailed travel guides and tips to travel happy!

Alaska

Alaska cruise

Harvesting grapes in a Tuscan vineyard - Tenuta Torciano is a great attractions

Attractions

Cruises

Cruises

World map highlighting The Happy Traveler blog destinations in Europe, Mexico, and other regions, updated in June 2025

Destinations

Blue-domed churches in Oia, Santorini, overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Greece

Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence at sunset with golden buildings reflected in the Arno River.

Italy

Front facade of Teatro Morelos with ornate signage and warm lighting at dusk

Mexico