In a 300-year-old library in Ireland, I sat in Bram Stoker’s chair. Walking up to Marsh’s Library in Dublin is the exact experience I wanted but never imagined when following in the footsteps of the author of Dracula. A heavy iron gate stood open, leading me through an arch in the grey stone wall. Places like this can be intimidating, but multiple signs along the way assured me it was open to the public. When I stepped inside I couldn’t help … [Read more...]
Herbert Hoover, Library & Birthplace – West Branch, Iowa – December 2024
"In the middle of nowhere" as it were when Herbert Hoover was born here, it still seems that way for visitors not from this area. Located along the great interstate 80 (which spans New York to San Francisco), the Herbert Hoover Library & Birthplace is about a 15 minute drive from the nearest town, Iowa City (population about 80,000). It is humbling to see where Hoover was born - a since restored very small wooden two-room cottage. He did not grow … [Read more...]
Markets In Cancun: Mercado 23 Cancun Mexico
If you want to experience the real Cancun, head to Mercado 23. This bustling market is the heart of the city, offering a sensory overload of vibrant colors, fresh produce, and traditional Mexican goods. Unlike the more touristy Mercado 28, Mercado 23 is where locals shop, giving you an authentic taste of everyday life in Cancun. Here, you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and delicious street food. Mercado 23 … [Read more...]
Why you should hire a tour guide when visiting Athens
Traveling is a deeply personal experience, and no two journeys are exactly the same. Some travelers prefer to go it alone, relying on guidebooks or self-guided tours, while others may choose the efficiency of a bus tour. However, more and more visitors to Athens are discovering that hiring a private guide can transform their trip from ordinary to extraordinary. With their extensive local knowledge and personalized service, private guides offer a … [Read more...]
Helpful Tips for Tidying Up Your Front Yard
A first impression is going to last the longest, so if you are trying to get your house ready for the season then you know the first place to start is your front yard. As Christmas fuss approaches, you want to get your home tidied up and ready to reflect your festivities across the neighborhood, whether you're adding Father Christmas to the front yard or you simply want to mow back the lawn and make it ready for the winter. Your front yard is … [Read more...]
Bricks and Beats: Berlin’s Blend of Grit and Glamour
Berlin, Germany is full of history blended with stunning architecture, landmarks, and its art scene. And since its start, the nation has become an iconic city found in history books. The capital of Germany peeps reminders of its rough past, including the Holocaust and Berlin Wall along with its Cold War divide. With a rich history comes many stories that are found through architecture all over Berlin. Looking to explore this city and all it … [Read more...]
Enjoy a European Geo Thermal Spa Experience in the heart of Southern California
Murrieta Hot Springs, California, Geothermal Resort Review I first discovered the benefits of thermal springs as a young bride living in Southern Germany. My life there included visits to picturesque towns which evoked scenes right out of the “Sound of Music.” But nothing quite surpassed the rejuvenation and relaxation I felt after a dip in one of the many thermal pools that dotted the Bavarian countryside. I had the pleasure of … [Read more...]
Discovering Art, Crafts, and Culture in Puerto Vallarta’s Zona Romantica
Puerto Vallarta has long been a favorite travel destination of mine, a city where tropical beauty meets rich tradition. Nestled along the sparkling blue waters of Banderas Bay and framed by lush green mountains, this vibrant port town bursts with charm, art, and a rhythm all its own. After more than 30 years of visiting, both by land and sea, I always find something new that stirs my heart. Located in the Mexican state of Jalisco, Puerto … [Read more...]
A short stay in Hampshire (just isn’t enough!)
While visiting family in Hampshire, I decided to make a weekend of it and accept an invitation to make our base the newly rebranded voco® Winchester Hotel & Spa. Previously part of the Holiday Inn group of hotels, we were lucky enough to be among the first to have the voco® experience as the wraps came off a £2m refurbishment. The contemporary hotel, which was first built in 2010, is located on the edge of the beautiful South Downs … [Read more...]
Where in the World Am I Now?
Driving from Mumbai to Nashik we passed road construction chaos. If I had to guess I would say completion on this project will be sometime between 550 and 750 years from now. It had the appearance of having been worked on for decades with little progress to show for the effort. What appeared to be total chaos for kilometers included piles of rotting garbage, lengthy sections of broken pavement, stones everywhere, partially paved sections covered … [Read more...]