It’s called “Agriturismo”. The name gives it away. Translation, a working farm, vineyard (or both!), open to guests offering hospitality in a rural setting. Usually with an emphasis on sustainability and a connection with the land. Perfect for our Italian adventure where gastronomy is the heart and soul of this country. In the Campania and […]
Southern Italy’s Treasure: The Best in Farm to Table Dining Read More »
The Wieliczka Salt Mines. A thousand feet deep, 200 miles of passageways first dug with hand tools by salt miners beginning in the 13th century when salt was precious as silver. Magnificent carvings in grey salt rocks. Chandeliers carved from salt crystals. There are over twenty separate chapels in the mine dating from the 17th
Poland’s Buried Treasure: The Grandeur of the Wieliczka Salt Mines Read More »
This is a difficult post to write. It should be. The inconceivable horrors that took place here, and in over 450 other concentration camps in Poland alone, are memorialized on a scale equal to the evil of their complex, messianic perpetrators. The people of Poland and the Baltic countries do not doubt that this evil
Walking Among the Ghosts of Auschwitz-Birkenau Read More »
Easter Sunday just outside of Krakow in Europe’s most Catholic country. This most important holiday is a celebration of food, family and worship. No shops are open and even the picnic tables at the monastery of Jasna Gora have been removed. Bells peal from the towers as we enter the small sanctuary where the Madonna
The Mysterious and Miraculous Black Madonna of Czestochowa Read More »
It’s a simple shrine. Just outside of the northern city of Sialuliai, Lithuania on a hilly expanse of cleared land, forested on one side and bordered by streams; a monument like no other I’ve see. It’s origin is a mystery. It is a holy place. Thousands of metal and wooden crosses draped with rosaries, medals
The Hill of the Crosses: A Triumph of Relentless Faith Read More »
My favorite city on this tour. Riga, Latvia. The Art Nouveau capital of Northern Europe and nicknamed “The Paris of the North.” This is an image post, words can’t do justice to the city’s beauty. Art Nouveau was an ornamental style that became popular throughout Europe and America between 1890 and 1910. It was an
My Ultimate Views of the Rich, Lush, Fabulous Art Nouveau Streets of Riga Read More »
In this country, anti-Soviet sentiment runs fresh, harsh and deep. Occupation is a recent memory. Estonia was established as an independent country with a government and eventual NATO membership just 32 short years ago in 1991. During the Second World War, Estonia was first invaded by Russia, then Germany and finally again by Russia. In
Singing For Freedom: The Incredible Liberation of Estonia Read More »
I’ve been researching. Planning the next great escapade for travel abroad. In the midst of this wonderful distraction I came across listings of the world’s most luxurious destinations. So I asked myself…”if money didn’t matter, where would I go for the ultimate spa experience? Here’s my curated super-short list of top spa destinations with their
My Bucket List of the World’s Ultimate Luxury Spa Destinations Read More »
Today I should be in the bustling capital of Bangkok. Three years of planning. My bucket list trip to Southeast Asia. Siem Riep, Angkor Wat, a cruise on Ha Long Bay, Luang Prabang, 150 foot reclining Buddhas, Hanoi. Silks, pearls, Pho and the Khmer Dynasty. Three flight cancellations and delays over three days nixed the
Know When to Fold ‘Em: My Best Advice If A Trip Goes Sideways Read More »
Dreaming of spending Valentine’s Day in the most romantic city in the world? Don’t limit yourself to the 14th of February. Paris is the perfect city for a romantic getaway, ANY day. First, check and book flights. Skyscanner is a great app for that. Make hotel, lunch and dinner reservations online with the information provided
How to Plan the Perfect Valentine’s Day in Paris Read More »