FOOD AND DRINK Venice Food Secrets: What Happened at Don Fernando’s Octopus Dinner Posted on April 3, 2024February 26, 2026 We both sat there staring at the plate placed before me. When I ordered a seafood salad, I figured I’d see a little crab and shrimp over some leafy greens with a splash of vinaigrette. I had no idea someone would go into the kitchen and out the back door to the canals beyond, scoop up whatever was unfortunate enough to swim into the net, and serve al fresco with a splash of olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper. We sat there, staring at the seafood salad I ordered. This is the story about My Octopus Dinner on the Venice Canals at Don Fernando’s in Treviso, Italy. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Spring in Italy: How to Plan the Perfect Birthday Trip Posted on March 28, 2024September 24, 2026 Today is my birthday and I am spending ot and the month of March in Italy. Spring in Italy has been full of surprises. Despite my initial concerns about the cold potentially spoiling the enjoyment of Italy’s famous natural beauty, my worries were unfounded. The weather is unexpectedly warm, a pleasant surprise that probably points to global warming. The heavy coat I brought, expecting to shield against the chill, has become my personal sauna. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES How to Master Public Transportation in Italy: Trains, Buses, and Taxis Posted on March 27, 2024February 15, 2026 I am hanging out in Italy for a month. Unfortunately, I didn’t get my international driver’s license before going to Italy, so now I can’t drive here. This will require me to use buses, trains, and other public transport to get around. I’m not hating it, it’s been awhile since I’ve driven in Europe. While it’s a handy way to travel, there are a few things I’ve had to figure out to make it easier and cheaper a bit of know-how. Here’s a concise guide to making the most of your public transportation experience in Rome, Florence, Formia, and Naples Italy. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Find Spain’s Authentic Flamenco: Go Beyond Touristy Spots Posted on March 24, 2024September 24, 2026 If you can see a flamenco show in Southern Spain, opt for one outside the touristy areas; you’ll thank me later. Your best bet is to follow the locals; they know where you’ll get an authentic show. Flamenco is not merely a performance for tourists but is deeply ingrained in Spanish culture. For me, Flamenco in Southern Spain isn’t just about the music and dance… Read more
FOOD AND DRINK How to Make Arancini at Home: Lessons from My First Attempt Posted on March 23, 2024December 20, 2025 Italian cuisine holds a special place in my heart, especially for its rich flavors, vibrant history, and the comfort it brings to any dining table. Among the vast array of Italian snacks, arancini have always been my favorite. These crispy, golden rice balls filled with savory meat sauce are a testament to Italy’s culinary ingenuity. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Make the Most of an ATV Tour in Mijas, Spain Posted on March 22, 2024September 24, 2026 I was really excited when I planned to visit my daughter Ashley in Italy, where she’s been living for a year. She’s caught the travel bug just like her mother. So, when I told her I was coming, she surprised me by planning a secret trip to either Spain, Greece, or Montenegro for a long weekend. She booked our flights and hotel but kept the destination a secret. She even joked about walking me to our gate blindfolded! This post is all about how we ended up in Malaga, Spain, for an unexpected and amazing 4-day adventure. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Celebrate the Holi Festival in Spanish Fork, Utah Posted on March 21, 2024December 20, 2025 A couple of years ago, an intriguing advertisement by the Indian Tourist Association urged Americans to immerse themselves in the original festival of colors right in the heart of India. However, the stunning visuals capturing the essence of Holi were from a different location than West Bengal but surprising from Spanish Fork, Utah. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Plan a Mother-Daughter Weekend Escape in Spain Posted on March 20, 2024December 27, 2025 My daughter Ashley planned a secret trip for us to Spain, Greece, or Montenegro! She booked flights and hotels without telling me the destination. We ended up in Malaga, Spain, for an unforgettable 4-day adventure! You won’t believe what happened! Read more