As a lover of Europe, I often find myself missing the ancient buildings, glorious architecture and stone streets of the old world. Still, if you look you can find hints of Europe here in the U.S. if you need a fix. Here are some that you may or may not have heard of that I’ve …
Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday. In Catholic tradition, it is the last day of feasting before Lent. In modern practice, carnival season begins on January 6th, the Catholic holiday of Epiphany marking the arrival of the three wise men after Christ’s birth. It is also known as “Twelfth Night” being 12 nights after Christmas. Parades can be …
Wanting a quick trip to a historic place that will put you in touch with the country’s past? Washington DC is a good bet. While Cherry Blossom Season is a great time of the year to visit, any time will do – I went in February to visit a friend. Oldtown Alexandria Alexandria is right across …
Few sights are more spectacular than Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast. Set on the northwest corner of the island, it is a lush and remote area in the Nā Pali Coast State Park. It’s stunning green, brown and red cliffs which stretch from sea to sky were made famous in opening segment of the 1970’s show: …
Pacing and checking my phone had now become a constant habit. “Not one but two hurricanes headed toward Maui on the weekend of my wedding?” I asked in disbelief. It was an event planner’s nightmare – with 30 guests flying in from all over it seemed all would be lost. A destination wedding can be an …
The Napa Valley conjures up images of rolling vineyards, upscale wineries and well-stocked gourmet stores. While it is widely known as a romantic destination for couples, it can also be a great location for a memorable girl’s trip. Three friends and I took a long weekend bridesmaid trip here. We live in different cities, so …
Austin, Texas is also known as the “ATX” and the “live music capital of the world.” It is home to the annual South by Southwest Music, Film & Interactive festival (SXSW) and the long running Austin City Limits music show, studio and festival. Celebrities who live here include Matthew McConaughey and Willie Nelson, to name a …
When considering destinations to visit during the holidays, the Southwest may not immediately come to mind. However, Sante Fe has a unique holiday charm in its historic buildings, colorfully lit square and thousands of farolitos topping its adobe structures. From the annual tree lighting on the square, to its yearly La Posada procession, to its Christmas …
There are common, recognizable charms to the historic port cities in the southeastern US: period architecture, cobblestone streets, gas lanterns, mossy oaks, nautical influences, horse drawn carriages, famous parks & squares and colorful cottages to name a few. The region’s warm weather and many days of sunshine make these cities a year round destination. Out of a long list of options, five …
I am in Key Largo on a diving trip. We traveled here by car and I am always surprised at how the Keys feel like a sweet reward for an hours-long driving effort. As you cross the bridge from Florida City into Key Largo, you know you are leaving the mainland behind. You are suddenly …
We are in Hawaii! It sounds so exotic and expensive, but when we did the math, with free airfare, it was cheaper to venture to Oahu than to the Florida Keys. The time change helped as I had work to do on this trip and the differing U.S. time zones ensured a little more free …
One of my new favorite resorts is set by itself in a dramatic red rock canyon so remote that cell phone service is often non-existent. It is a proud member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World group, the aptly named Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona. I discovered it accidentally while researching a post graduation trip to …