When I think of fall, I think of the changing colors in the vineyard as the lush green grape vines turn yellow and orange. It is the perfect time for a weekend escape to Santa Maria Valley. Not only is it the ideal time to enjoy the wineries, but it is time to enjoy the
If you want a change of scenery, enjoying a weekend escape to Solvang, CA, offers a fantastic option with its Danish flair, good wine, and burgeoning dining scene. My recent visit included tasting wine at Coquelicot Estate Vineyard, dining at the Michelin Plate restaurant First & Oak, and staying at the Mirabelle Inn. This same
One of our darkest periods in history occurred during World War II. The inhumanity dealt to those persecuted during the holocaust is something that we should never forget. Auschwitz Not Long Ago Not Far Away is the world’s largest traveling exhibition about the Nazi’s notorious death camp. Over seven years, the exhibit will travel to
The Gulf Coast of Florida draws visitors with its pristine beaches of glorious white sands. They beckon you to walk along the peaceful shores digging your toes into the soft billowy sand and immersing you into the beach lifestyle and abundance of nature. These include sea turtles, shorebirds, dolphins, and manatees. The beaches of Anna
The terrain of the Santa Ynez Valley is diverse, with its green pastures dappled with horse ranches and vineyards. The landscape is studded with oak trees that signify one has landed in Chumash country. It is an agricultural area surrounded by the Santa Ynez Mountains on the south and the San Raphael Mountains on the
Flowers are all the rage in California this year. Our rainy winter brought a super bloom heralding spring that increased the wildflower population, those in your garden, and the flower fields around Southern California. Let’s look at two great places to visit for super blooms. Super Bloom at Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve For those wildflower
Life is about immersing yourself in extraordinary encounters. For those of you who enjoy cruises, Princess Cruises has one of those memorable experiences. The Van Gogh and Claude Monet Immersive Experience enhanced your sense of sight as you viewed the exceptional works of both artists. Add in your other senses of taste, smell, and touch
Heading east on Interstate 10 from California to Arizona, one passes through Quartzsite, Arizona. At first glance, one thinks Quartzsite is just a place to stop for gas upon entering Arizona or before returning to California. Gas is cheaper in Arizona, so most Californians top the tank before returning to California. There is more to this
In 2022 my travel adventures exploring destinations continued both virtually and in person. Although travel was primarily within California, I also traveled to Florida. Enjoy my travel 2022 year in review as I discovered many places in person and virtually more that I hope to visit soon. Travel 2022 Year in Review – In-Person Travel
Strolling up the rain-soaked Rue de la Bûcheri on the Left Bank of Paris, I attempted to close my umbrella despite the brisk wind challenging me to a duel. I wanted no distractions as I approached the 17th-century building that Shakespeare and Company occupies. Feeling the tingling of a long-wished-for dream, I rested my eyes