CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Our Passports Were Stolen in Mallorca—Here’s What Happened Next Posted on December 12, 2024February 19, 2026 As the dimly lit street emptied, a heavy silence settled around us. My purse, once slung carelessly over a chair, was gone. The contents—passports, credit cards, and cherished trinkets—vanished without a trace. Had we crossed paths with a cunning thief or stumbled into a hidden plot? The questions lingered. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES Quick Stop in Barcelona: What You Should Do Posted on July 28, 2024December 20, 2025 Surviving a Stolen Passport in Barcelona “Is there someplace nearby that serves good food?” I asked the front desk attendant. “Yes, two blocks down. The carne y huevos are the best in the city,” he replied. It was 6 p.m., but we often eat breakfast for dinner at home. The… Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES The Truth About Driving on the Left Side of the Road in Malta Posted on July 17, 2024December 20, 2025 I enjoyed driving on the right until I had to make right turns. My brain does not work that fast. I chanted keep my body on the center line– when there was one. Read more
CULTURE, EVENTS & EXPERIENCES Northern Spain: Three Reasons You’ll Love it Here Posted on July 1, 2024January 28, 2026 From the heart-pounding excitement of the world-renowned San Fermín festival in Pamplona, where the running of the bulls takes center stage, to the soul-stirring rhythms of flamenco echoing through historic streets, this region is a celebration of life itself. But that’s not all – indulge your taste buds in the delightful world of pintxos. These savory Basque tapas are nothing short of culinary art and savor the joys of affordable sangria that flow like a river. Join us as we uncover the vibrant northern Spain, where every moment invites you to immerse yourself in a lively, authentic, and unforgettable culture. Read more
FOOD AND DRINK Why I Love the Late-Night Tapas Tradition in Spain Posted on June 25, 2024December 20, 2025 In Seville, the concept of dinner starts at a time that might seem late to many, with restaurants typically beginning service at 9 p.m. or even later. However, this late dining hour aligns perfectly with the local tradition of bar hopping. Spaniards frequently gather with friends to enjoy tapas and drinks in the early evening. Visiting several bars or cafes and trying various tapas dishes is customary before settling for a complete meal. Here, I’ll share a few delicious reasons to love southern Spain and return to this enchanting place whenever possible. Read more
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Find Spain’s Authentic Flamenco: Go Beyond Touristy Spots Posted on March 24, 2024December 21, 2025 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
DESTINATIONS & CITY GUIDES How to Make the Most of an ATV Tour in Mijas, Spain Posted on March 22, 2024December 20, 2025 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 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