The art world is an endless vista of influence and culture, from abstract to impressionist and surrealist, there is always something that appeals to the human spirit no matter your preference. If you’re like me, Salvador Dali is one such appealing artist. Take a day trip from Barcelona to Dali's home and museum, experience his genius up-close, and get inspired! Dali’s Portlligat Museum-House Just north of Barcelona, very close to the border … [Read more...]
Scandinavian Cruise to the Baltic Capitals
A Scandinavian cruise to the Baltic Capitals sat on our travel list for several years, while easier and less expensive trips took precedence. For us to set sail towards our Viking roots, we needed a big occasion—like a 50th birthday. I think of 50 as an easy going innocuous number. It’s neutral (fifty/fifty), romantic (Fifty First Dates), and even sexy (Fifty Shades of Grey). But for my husband, 50 conjured dark and disturbing … [Read more...]
Istanbul Travel Tips even for the Experienced Traveler
, I sometimes go there just to roam the streets, take pictures, eat the traditional food and talk to the locals. It is possibly my favorite city of all that I have visited. I really could have benefitted from some Istanbul travel tips before I went the first time. I learned to do my research. The first time I went to Istanbul I felt an energy as soon as I left the airport. I believe a city is a living, breathing, ever changing organism. … [Read more...]
SFO to Manchester Flight Launch!
I recently had the pleasure of attending a reception to celebrate Virgin Atlantic's new direct route from San Francisco to Manchester. The event was held at the residence of the HM Consul General Andrew Whittaker who made the announcement, followed by an evening of mingling with journalists. British food and cocktails kept flowing through the evening as we celebrated this momentous occasion for who doesn't want more non-stop flights from the … [Read more...]
The art of Damasquinado in Toledo Spain
Damasquinado (Toledo Craft) can be found in many shops in Toledo Spain. While in Toledo, we were “pulled” (seduced) into a workshop where the ancient craft of Damascene is practised. We literally had just checked into our hotel, dropped our bags in the room and headed out to grab a bite to eat. We walked a few steps when I felt a few raindrops hit my head. Of course the umbrellas were in our room but my husband volunteered (aka- was forced) to … [Read more...]
Antequera: Andalucia Spain without the tourists
We say we want an authentic local experience when we travel. But do we? Suburbs and industrial parks are authentic if, by that word, you mean a place where people actually live and work. What we really seek are sights and a slice of life that doesn’t feel produced for the consumption of others. Or maybe all we desire are places not frequented by other tourists. We want to feel we’re having a unique experience, one that hasn’t shown up already … [Read more...]
Five Reasons to Visit Amsterdam with the I Amsterdam City Card
Last November, I took a leap of faith and booked my first solo trip abroad. I headed to the Netherlands. Having never traveled alone before, I needed to be safe, smart, and strict about my spending. I enjoy comfort and privacy, so costs add up quickly with both an international hotel and a flight. Through my research, there appeared to be five reasons why the I Amsterdam City Card was the best option. It allowed me to be smart about my … [Read more...]
Ghosts of Verdun
"On the battlefield of Verdun I stand. Half a million, young as I, are buried here. Where are they now?" - excerpt from Verdun and You, a poem by German battle survivor William Hermanns Marshal Ferdinand Foch, France's Supreme Commander of Allied Forces in WW1, is said to have once remarked that the training of a Major General requires about 15,000 dead soldiers. In 1916, at the infamous battle of Verdun, more than 20 times that number … [Read more...]
An Unfinished Dream
Every Wednesday evening between March and October, Charles Dickens visits the house he made an early London home. He must have great affection for it. Oliver Twist was born here; so were Dickens’ two eldest daughters. At 7:30 p.m., the lights in the basement library are dimmed, and a long-haired actor in full Victorian dress strides through the open door, marches towards a burgundy-coloured velvet armchair, and regales his “guests,” their … [Read more...]
Oh, the Eating in Lyon is To-Die-For
Lyon is considered France’s capital of gastronomy. And with good reason. With the highest concentration of restaurants per capita in the country, Lyon lies in an enviable position. Literally. It’s surrounded by the best sources of raw ingredients and fresh produce. And this allows the city and its people the ability to create some of the best dishes in the world. Bresse chicken and Charolais beef from the north (with Bresse chicken dubbed as … [Read more...]
- 1
- 2
- 3
- …
- 36
- Next Page »