In late 2013, I decided to ride a bicycle through Africa in an attempt to turn my life around. My parents had passed away back home in Ireland but, to tell the truth, it was not their memory that had dislodged my equilibrium, it was me indulging in self-destruction. It all seemed so impossible on the airplane as I sat reading a beginner’s manual about how to repair punctures, but after a year spent riding through deserts, mountains, remote … [Read more...]
Archives for February 2017
MGM National Harbor—Local Flavors, International Appeal
It may sound like a crock of balderdash to start out a review of a luxury resort with a statement about how happy the employees seem. Or that the property has transformed an area by emphasizing local hiring and local artists. But cross my heart, the service people weren’t smiling at Maryland’s MGM National Harbor resort because they were Westworld robots. And the place has such regional roots that the very clay from the property … [Read more...]
The Joys of Travel and Stories That Illuminate Them by Thomas Swick
Author Swick highlights "the seven joys of travel" in seven chapters - anticipation, movement, break from routine, novelty, discovery, emotional connection and a heightened appreciation of home". This book is about his experiences, people he meets on the road and the resulting stories from travel when one is open to experiencing these seven joys. These seven chapters are followed by seven additional chapters focusing on personal stories from … [Read more...]
Ko Yao Noi Island, Thailand – February 2017
This little piece of paradise is located merely about 25 minutes from near Phuket on a speed boat - you can also access the island from the other side - from the city of Krabi. For being located in between and fairly close to two popular urban areas - somehow this island has escaped the pull of developers and the crowds that are found on those other mainland destinations. The locals are extremely friendly and helpful, the pace of life is slow - … [Read more...]