The first thing that strikes you about Olongapo City isn't the visual – it's the energy. As our jeepney rumbles down Magsaysay Drive, the main artery of this bustling port city about 80 kilometers northwest of Manila, the vibrant pulse of street life emerges against a backdrop of mountains and sea. Once home to the largest U.S. naval base outside American soil, Olongapo has transformed itself from a military outpost into a dynamic Filipino city … [Read more...]
5 reasons to experience autumn in Armenia 2025
Autumn in Armenia is the ideal season to explore the country’s natural beauty, culture, and flavors. Mild weather, crisp air, and fewer crowds make October and November perfect months for discovering Armenia at its most vibrant. Here are five reasons why 2025 is the season to visit. 1. Skies full of color From 11 to 15 October, the “Discover Armenia from the Sky” International Hot Air Balloon Festival fills Yerevan’s Republic Square and other … [Read more...]
Grand Ole Opry, Nashville Tennessee – November 2025
A must visit for any country music lover - this is the country's longest running radio broadcast, dating from 1925 with the first show broadcasted on Nashville station WSM - now a 50,000 watt radio station that still broadcasts the Friday and Saturday Opry shows and plays country music full time (including being able to listen live via the Internet). Sirius XM Radio Channel 59 (Willie's Place) also broadcasts these shows on the weekends. … [Read more...]
Two Days in Vegas: Where Every Hour Counts
Las Vegas is one of those cities that has always appealed to me in an intriguing sort of way. It’s not a 'conventional' city by any definition; its wink is seductive, filled with opportunity, excitement and flash - where money is always on full display. The city can be overwhelming, especially for first time visitors. My first trip was in college. Stepping out of the plane into one of the terminals at Harry Reid International Airport, I remember … [Read more...]
Budget Travel in Canada: Expert Tips to Explore More and Spend Less
Canada's vast, captivating scenery is excellent for budget-friendly adventure. Many travelers incorrectly assume that navigating this country requires a prohibitive financial expenditure. Strategic planning unlocks amazing experiences without dipping into required savings funds. Smart budgeting changes an ultimate Canadian dream vacation from a pricey fantasy to a real possibility. Cost-control necessitates dedicated research and an open mind to … [Read more...]
Catalina Island to Host First-Ever Mermaid Festival October 25–26, 2025
AVALON, Calif. – Oct. 20, 2025 – Catalina Island is diving into something brand new this fall: the inaugural Catalina Island Mermaid Festival, splashing into Avalon Oct. 25–26. The free, family-friendly celebration will transform Avalon's waterfront into an under-the-sea playground of art, music, food, and - of course - mermaids. The festival kicks off Saturday, October 25, at 10 a.m. along Crescent Avenue with nearly 20 ocean-themed artist … [Read more...]
6 Michelin Star Restaurants in Japan for you to try in 2026
Japan is world-famous for its rich culinary heritage, with unique creations that have been imitated worldwide for years. Ramen, one-of-a-kind sushi, and exquisitely raised wagyu beef are sought after by millions yearly, earning Japan the status of the second country with the most Michelin-Star Restaurants. One-star, two-star, and many three-star establishments are dotted throughout Japan—some specializing in Japanese cuisine, others blending … [Read more...]
Abra: The Hidden Charms of Highland Culture
The morning air carried the scent of pine as our jeepney navigated the winding roads of Cordillera. My destination, Abra Province, remained largely unknown to international travelers—a hidden gem in Northern Luzon, Philippines. As we climbed higher into the mountains, leaving behind the tourist-filled streets of Baguio City, I found myself wondering what secrets this remote province might hold. Abra sits nestled between mountains and rivers, … [Read more...]
The QE2 Sails Again! This Time… On a Culinary Journey
Around the World in 80 Days — launching October 1 to December 19 2025. From Southampton to Singapore, Marseille to Mumbai — One Ship. Eighty Destinations. Infinite Flavours. This October, the legendary Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) will set sail on a new kind of voyage – one of flavour, culture, and nostalgia – with the launch of an extraordinary culinary series, Around the World in 80 Days. Running for 80 nights from 1 October to 19 December … [Read more...]
East Coast Escapade: A Whirlwind Adventure
I caught a red eye from California to JFK in New York but before I left, our flight was delayed 90 minutes due to crew who had not yet arrived at the airport. This and other delays have plagued nearly most of my flights this year - although this wasn't as bad as sitting on the tarmac in Germany earlier in the year for nearly 6 hours for maintenance issues and then having to go back to the gate because the flight was ultimately canceled. And … [Read more...]