PLACES 3 Days/ 2 Nights on a Halong Bay Cruise: A Complete Review of Our Experience Posted on October 24, 2024November 8, 2024 If you had told me I would be paddling a kayak (with Steven) in the middle of Halong Bay in the South China Sea, I’d have told you you’re crazy. Sometimes its necessary to do something crazy every now and then, right? Read more
PLACES Explore the Best in the Midwest: Muscatine History, Nature, and Luxury Too Posted on October 21, 2024November 18, 2024 What do a historic mill, a butterfly garden, and a splash pad have in common? They’re all part of the unique charm that makes Muscatine stand out along the Mississippi River. We’re heading out for another road trip. From sipping wine at a local vineyard to posing with the world’s… Read more
PLACES Fushimi Inari Temple Guide: How to Explore Kyoto’s Iconic Shrine and Torii Gates Posted on October 18, 2024November 8, 2024 Asia is filled with temples and shrines, but after a while, they can blur together. However, my visit to Fushimi Inari was different. From the first steps under its towering torii gates, I realized this place was special. In this Fushimi Inari Temple Guide, I’ll share what makes it stand out, from the striking red gates to the peaceful paths that wind up Mount Inari. Every moment felt unforgettable, and now every torii gate I see reminds me of that serene, beautiful walk. Read more
PLACES How to Plan a Kid-Friendly French Riviera Spring Break Road Trip Posted on October 16, 2024October 17, 2024 The hill was so steep, every time I took my foot off the clutch to give it some gas, it rolled back and stalled out. Me and the car were going in the wrong direction. I tried again and again with the same outcome. The nice people of Eze were getting a little impatient until one politely rapped on my window. Then he took off, up the hill with both my kids in the peering out the rearview window. Read more
PLACES Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Wines and Wineries in Pfalz, Germany Posted on October 16, 2024October 16, 2024 Pfalz, located near the French border, is one of Germany’s most significant and warmest wine regions, making it perfect for producing a wide variety of wines. Known for its rich, full-bodied Rieslings, the region is also famous for its reds, especially Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and Dornfelder. Pfalz Wine Region is… Read more
PLACES Santorini to Kos The Ultimate Island Hopping Experience on Blue Star Ferry Posted on October 14, 2024October 15, 2024 We caught the slow, overnight ferry to the island of Santorini to catch up with my daughter who is in the Navy. The ferry left Kos around 8pm and arrived in Santorini early in the morning. I called ahead and the owner of the hotel sent a taxi for us and had tea and biscuits waiting for us in our room. My daughter’s ship was anchored off the coast of Santorini for a week. We rode the cable car down to the jetty where we received a brief tour of her ship. Read more
PLACES Explore the Best in the Midwest: Lake Geneva Weekend Itinerary and Activities Posted on October 14, 2024November 18, 2024 Spend a weekend in Lake Geneva, WI, and explore its scenic lake paths, dine at lakeside restaurants, enjoy charming cafes, and visit historic spots like Yerkes Observatory and Black Point Estate. Perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and history buffs alike. Read more
PLACES Bodrum: A Day Trip to the Turkish Riviera Posted on October 12, 2024October 12, 2024 We walked in and out of little shops along the long footpath near the water until we reached the inner part of the town. Glad to be shaded from the sun by a large undulated tarp of living plants above our heads. We found a little cafe and decided to have a snack which was delicious. The boys got henna tattoos and I bought a few pieces of jewelry. I bought a pendant with the Turkish eye to ward off against the evil eye. Read more