Dr. Lisa Rusczyk- CZYK Publishing

 


I went to an entrepreneurship training this week which inspired me to write down my story again. Hi, I’m Lisa. I went to school to initially to teach online classes so I could be home with my children while perusing a career I enjoyed. I earned my doctorate in Education a year after my first child was born. I was an multimedia creator, instructional designer, and software training before having children.


While I was pregnant I had so many questions. I wrote a blog post to help others through pregnancy called “50 Things to Know Before Having a Baby”. That post went viral! I then took the post and made a book out of it which became the first book in the “50 Things to Know” series. After I published about 50 books, I started hiring other writers to write books and creating more series of books. I have a love of travel, so I created the “Greater Than a Tourist”, and “Eat Like a Local” series.

After the pandemic my children went back to school full-time but I decided to still work on my company CZYK Publishing which now has over 2,000 books, and 1,000 audiobooks. I continue to work on these series daily and learn how I can share more tips in an easy to learn format. I love working with people all around the world to do this from my computer at home.

I would like to tell others that want to become entrepreneurs that this was not my first idea for a business. I tried YouTube for a while, created content for teachers, published 50 online classes, and was an influencer to only name a few. While I had fun doing these things, for different reasons they did not work out. But it did not keep me from trying new things until something stuck. This has been a 10-year process.

Another thing that was helpful for starting my business is I used mostly free software on the internet to grow my businesses and lots of feedback. While this was time consuming on my part, I learned so much without going into debt. This allowed me to keep trying new things until I started creating an income. I hope people can learn from my journey as it was not straight but fulfilling. I appreciate all the education that I had that helped with each step along the way.

I believe life blows you like a sailboat. You get to readjust after every strong wind.

hashtagLisaRusczyk CZYK Publishing

GREATER THAN A TOURIST Travel Guides

 TRAVEL GUIDES WRITTEN BY LOCALS by Dr. Lisa Rusczyk



Oh, Hello There!

  • Welcome. Pleased to meet you!
  • Traveling is a passion of this series creator. She studied abroad in college, and for their honeymoon Lisa and her husband toured Europe. During her travels to Malta, an older man tried to give her some advice based on his own experience living on the island since he was a young boy. She thought he was just trying to sell her something. When traveling to some places she was wary to talk to locals because she was afraid that they weren’t being genuine. She created this book series to give you as a tourist an inside view on the place you are exploring and the ability to learn what locals would like to tell tourists. A topic that they are very passionate about.

This Is Our History

  • Lisa created this book series to give you as a tourist an inside view on the place you are exploring and the ability to learn what locals would like to tell tourists. A topic that they are very passionate about.

Our Books

  • Diverse Destination
  • Available Anytime
  • Passionate Locals
  • Our books come from various locations worldwide.
  • Feel free to purchase the books at your convenience.
  • Our writers have a deep passion for their local community.
  • Greater Than a Tourist- 50 Travel Tips from a Local

Vision

  • To inspire and connect travelers with the authentic, unique, and enriching experiences offered by local experts.

Mission

  • Greater Than a Tourist is dedicated to providing travelers with valuable insights and insider knowledge, curated by locals, to enhance their journeys and foster a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultures, hidden gems, and untapped potential of global travel destinations.

Many Formats

  • eBook
  • Paperback or Hardcover
  • Audiobook

Hello, I'm Lisa

  • CZYK Publishing Creator
  • My name is Lisa, and I hold a Doctorate in Educational Leadership. I have a passion for exploring new destinations and immersing myself in different cultures. Through my latest book series, I've merged my love for travel with the power of technology to create a comprehensive guide that offers local insights and knowledge to fellow travelers like you.

CONTACT INFORMATION

11 Things to Know About Your First Trip to Black Moshannon

 

Black Moshannon State Park is situated in Centre County, approximately 9 miles east of Philipsburg, Pennsylvania. It covers an area of more than 3,000 acres in the Moshannon State Forest. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. We love the swimming and beach area there. The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, swimming, camping and wildlife watching. Black Moshannon State Park is known for its serene natural setting, with the lake and surrounding forest providing a peaceful backdrop for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation. Whether you're interested in water activities, hiking, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The park is known for its unique ecosystem, including a sphagnum moss bog, which is a rare type of wetland.

 

  1. Outdoor Activities: Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, bird-watching, picnicking, and camping. We went camping in a cabin for two nights. You can book 2 nights or more (up to two weeks) after the busy season is over.
  2.  Hiking Trails: The park offers several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels. The Moss-Hanne Trail is a popular choice that takes you through diverse habitats. There is a board walk section that is short and easy to get to by car.
  3.  Fishing: Black Moshannon Lake is stocked with trout and provides excellent fishing opportunities. A fishing pier is available for anglers. We have not tried fishing but there is kids finishing rods to borrow as well as other items from the main area.
  4.  Boating: Non-motorized boating is allowed on the lake, making it perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. You can rent boat there for around $20 an hour.
  5.  Swimming: There's a sand beach at the lake where you can swim during the summer months. There is a playground on the beach too but no life guard.
  6.  Camping: The park offers both tent and RV camping options. Campsites are available year-round, but it's a good idea to make reservations during peak seasons.
  7.  Winter Activities: In the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.
  8.  Wildlife Viewing: Black Moshannon is home to various wildlife species, including deer, turkey, and a variety of bird species. Don't forget your binoculars and camera for wildlife watching. We even saw some blue herons. We were told the lake has 5 and we saw two on a boat trip led by the education center. I love the Lilly pad on the black water. The view is amazing. 
  9.  Environmental Education: The park hosts environmental education programs and events, making it an excellent destination for learning about the natural world. We did a UV walk at night which was amazing. We then saw the stars which was not part of the program but was one of my favorite parts. We also saw solar flares during a program.
  10.  Picnicking: Numerous picnic areas throughout the park feature tables and charcoal grills, making it a great spot for family picnics and outdoor meals.
  11.  Pets: Pets are welcome in most areas of the park but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after. There are designated pet-friendly areas, so check the park's rules for specifics. We brought our dog and was allowed to keep her in a cabin!


A few days away to this beautiful place so close to home. Solar flare viewing. Pontoon boat. UV light walk in the dark. Uno. Beach. Bog water swimming. Our first canoe ride (We didn't tip but it wasn't very long).

We saw some blue herons on the boat ride and the park only has 5. Olivia helped drive us back. 

There is no internet or phone signal at this park. The elevation of this park is 1,900 and it just feels different there. 

"Bogs are freshwater wetlands with sphagnum moss that create the conditions necessary for rare plants, including various species of orchids, to thrive."










10 Things to Know About Your First Trip to Bald Eagle State Park

 

Bald Eagle State Park is a situated in Centre and Clinton Counties, the park encompasses diverse natural landscapes, including forests, fields, wetlands, and a significant portion of the Bald Eagle Mountain. The park is centered around the Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, a 1,730-acre lake.

 

The reservoir offers opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water-related activities. You can rent boats, and bikes. Boaters can enjoy sailing, powerboating, kayaking, and canoeing on the expansive lake.

 

There are also numerous hiking and nature trails within the park, providing visitors with opportunities to explore the surrounding natural beauty, observe wildlife, and appreciate the diverse flora. The Bald Eagle State Park is well-known for its habitat for bald eagles, a majestic bird of prey and the park's namesake.

 

Additionally, the park offers camping facilities, picnicking areas, educational programs, and opportunities for birdwatching, making it a popular destination for both local residents and visitors seeking outdoor recreation and a connection with nature.

Bald Eagle State Park in Pennsylvania is a stunning natural destination with a lot to offer. Here are 15 things to know for your first trip to this beautiful park:

 

  1. Activities Galore: Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, camping, picnicking, wildlife watching, and birding. Our favorite thing to do there is to sit on the beach, let the kids play and talk with our friends in our camping chairs. Remember to bring all the things you would to go to the beach. Sunscreen included.
  2.  Hiking Trails: The park boasts a variety of hiking trails, suitable for different skill levels. Notable trails include the Skyline Trail, Lakeside Trail, and Butterfly Trail, each offering unique scenic views. We really enjoy the Skyline trail. Look on the website for trail lengths and difficulties.
  3.  Boating Fun: The 1,730-acre lake provides ample opportunities for boating and water sports. Multiple boat launch areas are accessible, and rentals for paddleboats, canoes, and kayaks are also available. Known for its excellent fishing, the Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir is stocked with various fish species, including bass, muskellunge, and catfish. There's a fishing pier and boat rentals available.
  4.  Swimming Beach: During the summer months, you can swim at the park's sandy beach. They lower the water level so you can’t do this all year around from a sandy beach. There are no life guards but there is a snack shop!
  5.  Camping Options: Bald Eagle State Park offers both tent and RV camping options. Various campgrounds cater to different needs, including those with electric hookups and modern restrooms. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. They even have some Yurts!
  6.  Wildlife Observation: The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for Bald Eagles! Don't forget your binoculars and camera!
  7.  Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic areas throughout the park feature tables and charcoal grills, making it a great spot for family picnics and outdoor meals.
  8.  Events and Programs: Bald Eagle State Park often hosts special events and educational programs, particularly during the summer months. Check their website or the visitor center for a current schedule. These are really well done but don’t happen often. Check the calendar on the website.
  9.  Pets Welcome: Pets are welcome at the park but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after. There are designated pet-friendly areas, so check the park's rules for specifics.
  10.  Stargazing: The park's remote location away from city lights makes it an excellent spot for stargazing. You may need to wait for a clear night.




 

8 Things to Know About Your First Trip on the MSC Meregivlia

 The MSC Meraviglia is a stunning cruise ship operated by MSC Cruises, one of the world's largest cruise lines. When it was launched in June 2017, it was one of the largest cruise ships globally, and it boasts a wide range of features and amenities to provide passengers with an unforgettable cruise experience. Here are some key highlights of the MSC Meraviglia:

 

Size: The MSC Meraviglia is a massive vessel, capable of accommodating over 5,700 passengers and approximately 1,500 crew members. It features 19 decks, with a length of 315 meters (1,033 feet).

 

Entertainment: The ship offers a wealth of entertainment options, including Broadway-style theater shows, a water park with multiple slides, a full-sized bowling alley, a sportsplex, and a state-of-the-art LED ceiling in the main promenade that displays digital sky imagery and various visual effects. The ceiling was like something we have never seen before. Well other than Vegas.

 

Dining: Passengers can choose from a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, as well as more casual dining venues such as buffets and cafes. We thought the food was great and they even had fresh mozzarella on the ship.

 

Cabins: The MSC Meraviglia offers a wide range of cabin categories, from inside cabins to luxurious suites with private balconies. Many cabins are designed to accommodate families, making it a popular choice for family cruises. There is a bunk bed option for kids who enjoy that on the cruise. We did not choose that one.

 

AquaPark: The ship features an impressive water park with multiple pools and water attractions, including water slides and a Himalayan rope bridge. This was a great place for our family to hang out during sea days.

 

Entertainment for Kids: MSC Cruises places a strong emphasis on family-friendly amenities, and the ship includes clubs and activities tailored to different age groups, ensuring that kids and teens have a great time on board. Our family enjoyed this spot. They even have a Lego girl theme. We love bringing our kids on cruises and we are not alone! There are many other kids on the ship. We brought our child at 10 months and we now have an 11 year old. 

 

Wellness: For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, the MSC Aurea Spa offers a range of wellness treatments, including massages and beauty services. There's also a fitness center for those who want to stay active. They had a thermal spa which was really neat for us to try out for the first time.

 

Itineraries: The MSC Meraviglia sails on various itineraries, exploring destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and other regions, allowing passengers to experience a wide array of cultures and landscapes. We choose the Caribbean as we could leave from New York. The boat sailed out of Bayonne New Jersey for our trip.