On a recent Saturday afternoon I visited market square in Otavalo, Ecuador, two hours from the larger city of Quito. Textile arts and fabric creation is integral to South American culture, especially in the Andean region. Here, indigenous vendors dress in traditional outfits in a comfortable, easy to navigate setting. Saturday is the biggest day […]
Must See to Believe! The Luxurious Textile Art of Otavalo Read More »
The southeasternmost point the Italian Stiletto, Otranto has been a target for invaders and crusaders both. Otranto is a great day trip from anywhere in the Puglia region with charming shops, fascinating history and (very important!) many reasonable restaurant choices facing the crystal, azure waters of the Adriatic just south of Brindisi. Otranto is as
Beautiful, Macabre and Delicious Otranto on The Italian Stiletto Read More »
“A good story cannot be devised, it has to be distilled” Raymond Chandler Ireland: Republic of and Northern Distilled in great photos with brief commentary. Five grand adventures beginning with Dublin and a circumnavigation of the Republic of Ireland, with a pause for positive Covid test adding eleven days to the journey. A chance to
My Top 10 Unexpected but Amazing Travel Moments in 2022 Read More »
Paper cones filled with roasted steaming chestnuts, the air perfumed by cauldrons of hot, mulled cider, cinnamon and cloves. Sacher torte with peppermint-laced cream. Blown glass ornaments delicate as soap bubbles, hand-painted eggshells, their holiday scenes painted with a feather brush. St. Nicholas, Pere Noel, Weihnachtsmann, Father Christmas… The Christmas season offers an intimate portrait
Once in a Lifetime Christmas Markets You Must See Read More »
Remember when you had to actually GO shopping to shop? Not any more. Any of these wonderfully giftable items are guaranteed to generate tidings of great joy from your favorite traveler. I recommend each of these after lots of research and personal usage but would love to hear from you if you have a better
The Absolute Best Christmas Gifts for Broads Traveling Abroad Read More »
You will never forget your shopping experiences in Morocco. There are the open bazaars and medieval markets, back-alley souks in labyrinths of the medinas. From Fes to Marrakech, the neon colors and bold patterns deliver a sensual assault. In a good way! It is overwhelming at first. Every shopkeeper is a carnival barker, circus performer,
Ultimate Shopping in Morocco: Here’s What to Look For Read More »
First, do not try to navigate this medina without a guide. Or two. Or even three. We are a group of 20 seasoned, fit, veteran travelers. Multi-lingual, mature. This isn’t anyone’s first rodeo. On Saturday here at the Medina, we criss-crossed the Mellah, (the Jewish quarter and visited 13th century synagogue, still active), Andalusian and
Happily, Hopelessly Lost in a Fes Medina: My Survival Tips Read More »
Morning in Rabat, busy due to King Mohammed VI visit with the Parliament tomorrow. Flags flying, cobblestones washed in the square of the Royal Palace. Morocco is a Parliamentary Monarchy, emphasis on monarchy and HE’s coming tomorrow! The air is electric. Today’s itinerary and then the eloquence of pictures. After breakfast, a tour the capitol
Astonishing Rabat: Kings, Kasbahs and a Pink Lamborghini Read More »
What if I lose my phone? Yep, this is a biggie. But first… Before departing for a trip, it’s important to take necessary precautions should the unexpected occur. “Only bring devices you need during travel and remove any unnecessary data,” said Bahman Hayat, a cybersecurity expert. “I highly recommend signing out of or deleting apps
What To Do Immediately If You Lose Your Phone While Traveling Read More »
Sachertorte has a sweet secret. In 1832, the Austrian State Chancellor challenged his kitchen staff to prepare a “dessert to impress” special guests. With the Head Chef taken to his bed, his 16-year old apprentice, Franz Sacher performed the original culinary magic creating a chocolate cake which soon gained a cult following. From the imperial
Sachertorte, Schloss Mirabell and St. Nicholas Market: Sweet Secrets of Salzburg Read More »