San Francisco

I was, recently, lucky enough to do a road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles with a stop in beautiful San Francisco.  It isn't hard to understand the song, "I Left my Heart in San Francisco", once you have been fortunate enough to spend some time there.

We entered the city by crossing the iconic, Golden Gate Bridge which is actually orange in color.  It gets its name because is crosses the Strait of the Golden Gate from the city to the Marin headlands.  It is 1.7 miles long and first opened in 1937.  At that time, it was taller than any other structure in the city.  There are vistas at both the north and south ends of the bridge with accessible parking lots or you can walk or ride a bike across if you are so inclined.

We chose to stay down on the world famous Fisherman's Wharf.  The wharf just bustles with activity all day into the night.  They are a myriad of restaurants, bars and souvenir shops within an easy walk regardless of where you stay at the wharf.  I really like the Sheraton for its accessibility but like most hotels in great locations, it can be a bit on the pricey side.  I must recommend Pompeii's Grotto for dinner at some time during your stay.  I had a pasta and salmon dish there that I have yet to find anywhere else in the world.  It was just delicious (I think of it often and may just have to return just for that dish!)  Of course, you also have to wander down the wharf to Pier 39 to see the amusing sea lion colony.  Now one knows why, but they started appearing at the pier in October of 1989, shortly after the Loma Prieta earthquake.  By January 1990, these barking and boisterous creatures completely took over Pier 39 to the exasperation of the local marina tenants.  The marina sought advice from all the experts on just how to handle these marine mammals and it was recommended that the sea lions be allowed to remain in their new home.  So the marina gave up trying to chase them away and let them remain.  It is said that there can be as many as 1700 sea lions there at one time, depending on the season.  It is great fun to watch them as they slip and slide and push each other around.  Children especially love this activity.

Of course, when in San Francisco, you just have to take a cable car ride.  It is the world's last manually operated cable car system and is on the National Register of Historic Places.  We took it from the wharf all the way up to Union Square.  The views are just spectacular and watching the sharp incline as you get higher and higher is not for the feint of heart.  Use the cable car to take you up because a walk on these hills would be very taxing unless you were in very good shape.

Once at the top, we went to Chinatown.  It is said that San Francisco's Chinatown has more Chinese residents that any other place in the world outside of China.  (Though I know that Vancouver, Canada, argues this point as they have a significant Chinese population also.)  The residents here continue to practice their own customs, languages and religions that they did in China.  It has become a huge tourist attraction and draws more visitors annually than the Golden Gate Bridge.  And it is no wonder, there is great shopping here and bargains galore.  We poked around all the little shops until lunchtime when we found a great little rooftop restaurant for lunch.  Though the food was just mediocre, the views were great.

The Gate to Chinatown

Just love the traffic lights in Chinatown.

If you are a Baby Boomer (or just someone who is interested in that time), you have to visit the Haight-Ashbury section of the city.  This area was at the center of the 1960s hippie movement.  Youth from all over the country flocked here to experience the counter culture.  It became a concentrated gathering spot for those seeking the drugs, the music, the ideals and the freedom of the 1960s.   It became a haven for rock performers of the time like Jefferson Airplane, the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin who all immortalized the area in song.  Today, remnants of that time remain and for us, it was like a stroll down memory lane.  Wonderful consignment shops with vintage clothing brought back so many great memories of a turbulent time in our history.  I found myself humming, "If you are going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair....." , the great song by Scott MacKenzie of the Mamas and the Papas.  So take that stroll if you are of a certain age, it will really take you back.

Of course, if you have the time, take the trip out to Alcatraz, located in San Francisco Bay and little less than 2 miles from San Francisco.  Originally used for a lighthouse and military fortification in 1868, it is better known as the sight of a Federal Prison from 1933 until 1963.  During the 29 years that was used as a prison, some of the most notorious of all convicts were held here.  It housed the likes of Al Capone, Robert Franklin Stroud (the Birdman of Alcatraz), George "Machine Gun" Kelly, James "Whitey" Bulger and many more.    The penitentiary claimed that no prisoner successfully escaped during its 29 years of operation, though many tried and were either caught, shot or killed during their attempts.  It is an interesting place to visit and is now operated by the National Park Service and is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

So, I too, left a piece of my heart in San Francisco and hope to return one day for another visit.  It is an interesting place with its own personality and charm.  Try it, you won't be disappointed.

Until next time, safe travels!



Quote of the Week:  Travel often; getting lost will help you find yourself.     –Unknown

The Canadian Rockies

I am often asked, what trip is my favorite.  Impossible to answer.  They are all so different.  Some offer amazing scenery, others are so historically significant and yet others have a charm unlike any other place in the world.  So today, I will talk about my favorite scenic trip, so far, and that is the Canadian Rockies.

This trip is so spectacular that even though I rarely go somewhere twice (the world is such a big place with so much to see), I did return here.  The easiest way to get here is to fly into Calgary, Alberta and drive to Banff.  The sight of the enormous Rocky Mountain range rising out of the prairie is so awe inspiring that I had to pull of the road and take it all in on my first visit.  I highly recommend the experience.  Banff itself, is a bit of a tourist trap with accommodations that range from luxury (the Banff Springs hotel, is just gorgeous) to budget hostels.  It also boasts loads of restaurants, souvenir shops and of course the cable car ride up the mountain to enjoy spectacular views.  On my first visit, we witnessed a large elk just strolling down the main street, something that it did with some regularity, according to the locals.  While in the area, you might want to take a ride over to Lake Louise and have lunch on the beautiful emerald green lake which is unlike anything you have ever seen.

Lake Louise

But the real scenery is yet to come when you travel the Icefields Parkway to Jasper.  On my second trip with my husband and kids, it was so fun to watch their faces as they experienced this magnificent place for the first time.  Just when you think you have seen the best there is to see, you come around a bend in the road to see something even more amazing.  You will see glacier after glacier along the way and then you will come upon the Athabasca glacier, the Granddaddy of them all.  Not only is it incredible in its size and beauty but you can go up and walk on it, if you so desire.  A huge Sno-cat with wheels that are taller than the average man, will transport you to the top.  Drink the pure water of the glacier, it has no taste whatsoever because it has yet to mix with the minerals on its way to the oceans.  It is also said to add 10 years to your life, so I guess I am good for 20 more.  This particular glacier is a triple continental divide with water that originates there going to the Atlantic, the Pacific and the Arctic.  Sadly, global warming is effecting the glacier and though it continues to move at a breathtakingly slow pace, it is losing density, some say it will be gone in a generation.

Crow's Foot Glacier

The Snocat atop the glacier

Freezing atop the glacier (of course, it is a gigantic ice cube!)

Jasper is a lovely little town at the northernmost end of the Icefields Parkway.   Again, the accommodations run from luxury to budget.  My personal favorite is Becker's Chalets, just outside of town.  I have stayed there twice and it is a lovely place with a great little restaurant.  My first visit there was just two of us but on our second we had two of our kids with us and they have rooms that are plenty big enough for a family.  Some have kitchens and fireplaces which is just perfect for the location.  Though I confess, it has been a few years since my last visit, Becker's continues to get good reviews from guests. Just down the road from Becker's is Athabasca Falls.  Take some time and see them, they are stunning.

My twins at Athabasca Falls

The wildlife viewing on this trip is just fantastic.  On my two visits there I have seen elk, moose, deer, Bighorn sheep, Mountain sheep, marmots, otter, beaver and Black bear along with the everyday critters that inhabit most of North America like squirrels, skunks and chipmunks.  Seeing these incredible animals in their native habitat is a memorable experience. When close to them, you have to exercise caution as they are truly wild animals and as such, are unpredictable, especially the bear.  I have seen people do some pretty foolish things while trying to capture the perfect picture.  So enjoy it, but always be smart and careful.

Bighorn Sheep

If you are a bit adventurous, join a rafting trip and ride the whitewater on the Athabasca or the Fraser River. I have done this many times, in different parts of the world but this was the only time that I had to wear a wetsuit in the warm summer months because the rivers are glacier fed and are very cold. They are often said to be "drown proof" because the water is so cold you would suffer from hypothermia before you would drown.....such a lovely thought.  Never deters me though, I love the thrill of riding the whitewater on the raging rivers.  Most outfitters take every safety precaution and know exactly what they are doing and I have never felt unsafe.  It is a heart pounding thrill ride and I just love it.

This is a trip that is about the scenery and the wildlife.  Take your hiking boots and try one of the hundreds of trails available.  Take a boat ride out on one of the emerald green lakes or rent a canoe and paddle down a river.  Enjoy the great outdoors and the magnificence of nature.  Nowhere, is it quite as spectacular, as in the Canadian Rockies.

Until next time, safe travels!

Seville, Spain-Feria de Abril (April Fair)

What a spectacular explosion of color and culture and food!  Unlike anything that I have ever seen before.  Two weeks after Easter, in the beautiful city of Sevilla, the city comes alive with horse drawn carriages decorated with flowers and ribbons.  Riding in them are the people of Sevilla, all wearing traditional Spanish clothes.  The women have beautiful dresses and elaborate combs in their hair.  It is just an amazing sight to see.  The men wear their short bolero jackets and hats and are typically astride beautiful horses all decked out for the occassion.  It is a splendid celebration of their culture; their food, their drink, their music and their way of life and it is so exciting to be welcomed at their party.

It is believed that the fair evolved from a cattle fair that started in 1847.  The party loving people of Sevilla started erecting tents that became known as "casetas" for the local dignitaries to hang out in during the fair.  The number of casetas grew year after year until the 1920s when Feria de Abril had grown into Sevilla's largest annual event.

In the 70's the city opened its current fairground.  It is an enormous site that last year housed more that 1000 casetas and is known as 'Real de la Feria" and right next door is "Calle del Infierno" which is full of your typical carnival rides and circus show.  La Feria begins on a Monday at Portada which is the entrance to the fairground.  The Mayor of Seville switches on thousands of lights at midnight and let the party begin!!   The fairgrounds teem with traditionally dressed Sevillanas every day of the fair and they party well into the early morning hours.  It is very understandable that the poet Byron when referring to Seville said it was "famous for oranges and women".

The Portada lit up at midnight.

My daughter and I at the Portada on the first day of La Feria.

It always comes as a great surprise to tourists that most of the casetas are privately owned and admission is by invitation only but that doesn't stop us from enjoying ourselves.  There are several public casetas available.  We found the locals very welcoming and song and dance broke out all over the place.  So much fun to be twirled around by handsome Spanish gentlemen on your way to the restroom.

Dancing in the Public Caseta.

Every evening, during LeFeria the year's top bullfights take place at the historic Plaza de Toros. Though  some find this tradition of Spanish culture objectionable, I attended with an open mind to try and understand its evolution and appeal.  Take the time to tour the Museum dedicated to the bullfights before you go to the fight, it helps you to understand what is happening as you watch.   It is not dissimilar to an American baseball game.  Music is playing, fans are yelling, booing and cheering the matadors as they fight the bull. It can be a bit disconcerting when the massive bulls get too close to their human counterparts and a bit gruesome when they kill the bull but I embraced the experience as an important part of the Spanish culture and never regretted attending.  If you wish to enjoy this experience, get your tickets early because they sell out every night during La Feria.

This is one of the best cultural experiences that I have had abroad and I encourage anyone visiting the lovely country of Spain at that time of year, to take a few days and enjoy this truly unique Spanish event.

Until next time, safe travels!

More Bucket List Additions

These are some of the places and experiences that gave me such vivid and treasured memories.  Everyone should add them to their Bucket list.

1. Enjoy cocktails on the African plain- this is one of my favorite memories of my trip to South Africa.  We were parked on the African plain watching the sun go down behind the mountains.  The sky was a wonderful shade of pink and our new favorite South African wine, Pinotage was just perfect.  As we sat savoring the day and all of the amazing things we had seen, two giraffes emerged from the bush and sauntered by.  It was just icing on the cake and quickly became a treasured memory.

2.  Walk across a live runway while crossing an international border-There is only once place in the world that you can do this, Gibralter.  Still a matter of contention between Spain and England, it remains a British possession and the only way to enter it by land is to cross a live runway.  Traffic lights let you know when it is safe to cross.  As we stood waiting we watched a plane arrive.  It was an interesting experience.

3.  Eat a frankfurter in Frankfurt-This just seemed like a really fun thing to do, so we did it.  It was really good!  There are just some things that you have to do.

4.  Stand in the room where William Shakespeare was born-As a voracious reader and a lover of Shakespeare, this was a moving moment for me.  Anytime that I can reach out and touch history, I feel emotional.  I could imagine him toddling around the room, totally unaware of the remarkable contributions he would  give to the world.

5.  Run the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum like Rocky-Not an easy task, I assure you.  Take time at the top to savor the view down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.  Then enter this beautiful building and spend some time in this world renowned Museum which hosts wonderful exhibits from all over the world. (I am local so I love to see the tourists as they recreate the Rocky scene, makes me chuckle every time.)

6.  See the amazing gardens in Keukenhof, the Netherlands-This is arguably the most amazing floral display in the world.  It is only open 10 weeks a year when the bulb growers of the Netherlands all gather and try to out each other with there massive displays of tulips, daffodils, crocuses and other bulb plants.  It is just gorgeous and their creativity knows no bounds.  It is truly a unique experience that every one should do once.

7.  Sit and experience the Northern Lights-As a child, I lived far enough north that I experienced the Aurora Borealis with some regularity.  I really took it for granted until I moved south and never saw them again.  They are visible in so many wonderful northern destinations like Alaska, parts of northern Canada, Iceland and the Nordic countries in the fall and winter.  They are just incredible to watch and I hope to do it again in the not too distant future.

8.  Stroll the streets of San Francisco's Chinatown-The largest Chinatown outside of China offers so many great little shops for every pocketbook and Chinese restaurants galore.  The one we chose was a rooftop restaurant.  It was not exceptional but the setting was with great views of the city and the water.  After lunch, we poked around in the shops and brought home some real bargains.  Plan to do again in the future.

9.  Whale Watch off the coast of Plymouth, Massachusetts-I never tire of this amazing trip and I wish I had $5.00 for every person that I sent to Captain John and Sons Whale Watching tour in Plymouth.  They go out twice a day, morning and afternoon for four hours.  I have never been disappointed and have seen some spectacular things, like a Fin whale breaching which is extremely rare.  But mostly, it is the Humpbacks that do all of the entertaining.  They slap there enormous fins against the water and roll over on their backs and sunbathe.  I swear that they people watch as much as we whale watch.

10.  Walk the beautiful beaches and wonderful boardwalks of New Jersey-The much maligned state of New Jersey has some of the loveliest beaches on the East Coast.  From the Victorian splendor of Cape May at the states southernmost point, to the retro architecture of the Wildwoods, to the glitzy bright lights of Atlantic city and all the little beach towns in between, you will enjoy a marvelous beach vacation on Jersey's coast.  The boardwalk's offer great entertainment and every kind of food imaginable not to mention souvenirs!  I visit at least once every year to feel the warm New Jersey sand between my toes.

Cape Breton Island

I just love this place, it is that simple.  There is a reason that Conde Nast and Travel and Leisure repeatedly pick this lovely destination as one of their favorite places in North America.   Cape Breton is located at the northern end of the province of Nova Scotia in eastern Canada, about a five hour drive from Halifax. At one time, you could only get there by ferry but there is now a bridge connecting the island to the rest of the the province.  Upon your arrival, follow the Cabot Trail, named in the 10 Best Motorcycle Trips is USA Today.

The vistas are spectacular.  You will never tire of seeing the cliffs meet the ocean as you meander through small fishing villages.  We drove the the most northern point of the island to a place called Meat Cove and crossed a shaky wood bridge to get to the top of the cliff where a small shack sat with a "seafood chowder" sign out front.  We purchased the thick, fragrant chowder and went outside on a beautiful October afternoon and sat at a picnic table.  I have never before, and probably never again, had such a wonderful lunch because as we savored the warm, tasty soup, we watched an enormous pod of whales swim below us on their way to warmer waters for the winter.  It was, quite simply, magical.

One of the most unique things about the island is that all the signs are in English and Gaelic.  Nova Scotia means New Scotland in French and this lovely place was settled by the Scots and some Irish and their influence is everywhere.  Cape Breton houses the only Gaelic College outside of the United Kingdom and it is a neat place to visit.  But that is not where the influence ends, Celtic music is heard everywhere and some of the most famous Celtic musicians in the world come from this tiny island.  Often when sitting in a pub, a spontaneous Ceilidh, which involves singing and dancing, will begin.  One moment you are sitting quietly eating dinner and in the next moment, the room comes alive with a delightful folk song, sometimes in Gaelic. The spontaneity of these very traditional Gaelic songfests makes the experience like no other.

Perhaps, one of the things that I like best about the island, is just how unpretentious it is.  Our innkeeper recommended what she called the "best restaurant" on the island.  When we arrived, we entered a bakery, the restaurant was in the back.  There was absolutely nothing fancy about it but the meal did not disappoint.  I had Lobster Mac-n-Cheese and it was memorable.  For dessert, I opted for a Butter Tart, which is a popular pasty in Canada, and it too, was really good (not my Grandmom's but I don't think any tart will ever be that good).  The meal was inexpensive and delicious, a wonderful combination.

There are a myriad of accommodations on the island.  There are a couple of resorts available.  They are very nice and a bit pricey.  We stayed at a Bed and Breakfast Inn that is owned, ironically, by a couple from New Jersey.  It was a lovely little place right on the Atlantic.  We had a studio room and our bed faced French doors.  If we left the curtains open, we could watch the sunrise over the Atlantic.  It was a lovely way  wake up each morning.  Our breakfasts were made to order and really tasty.  There was a hot tub on the deck overlooking the Atlantic which we put to good use.  We used the Inn as our base and traveled all over the island.

If you visit between May and September, take the time to visit the nesting grounds of the Atlantic Puffins at Bird Island.   The Puffins share the island with bald eagles, Great Comorant. Razorbills, Great Blue Herons, Belted Kingfishers and many other species of birds.

There are surprises around every corner as you explore the Cabot Trail.  You will pass a Buddhist Monastery in your travels which is open for tours.  You will also find a small town that doesn't speak English or Gaelic, they all speak French.  Also visit the town of Baddeck where Alexander Graham Bell had his summer home.  Here you can visit exhibits and interactive demonstrations at the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.

We just loved the time we spent on the island.  The scenery, the wildlife, the food, the music and the people of Cape Breton made this trip a unique and treasured memory.

Until next time, safe travels!

Watching the sunrise from our room

One of the little fishing villages along the trail

Just one example of the beautiful scenery

The beaches are rocky but beautiful

My husband having some fun with Alexander Graham and Mrs. Bell

Quote of the Week:  All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware. 
                                                                         --Martin Buber

10 Good Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

I am often asked why you should use my services versus booking your own trips online.  Below you will find several reasons that a good travel agent is as valuable as a good mechanic.

1.  We, quite simply, know more than you do.  We are always training, getting certifications and visiting the destinations that we sell.  We also have input from our clients, about hotels, restaurants and activities. We know the best time to visit, when hurricanes are likely to happen and when the rainy season is.  We know if you need a visa or if a passport is sufficient.  We have the inside information and are really happy to share it with you.

2.  We also have clout with many suppliers because we do business with them everyday.  We can often get that oceanview room that is unavailable on the websites.

3.  When things go wrong, as they sometimes do, your travel agent will go above and beyond to make things right.  Again our influence with many suppliers that we use on a daily basis works in your favor.  They will work hard to not only insure your satisfaction, but the travel agency's as well.

4.  The best agents, will save you money.  They have access to specials and discounts that you know nothing about.  Maybe it's a room upgrade or or beverage credit, or other amenities that will give you more bang for your buck.

5.  In high pressure world with crazy, busy schedules, a travel agent will save you so much time.  Let them do all of the research and find the best value for your trip.  Leave it to the pros while you get that time to relax and do something that you enjoy.

6.  Your agent, can match you with the trip that best suits your needs.  For example, a cruise line that attracts a younger crowd would not be appropriate for retirees.  Your agent will know the difference and steer you in the right direction.

7.  We will know about that nonstop from your gateway city to your destination that may not be shown on that internet site.  Who wants to spend their time in airports when they don't have to?

8.  Using a good, local agent will help protect your from travel scams.  We know when a deal is too good to be true and we know where to go to get the real lowdown.  Countless people show up in our offices asking for our assistance to recoup their money once they have been scammed by internet sites.   As badly as we feel for them, we cannot help because it was not booked through us.  This is happening with more and more frequency in recent years.

9.  You will receive all of our travel services at no charge and we usually are able to price match if you find a good deal on the internet.  (Some agencies charge a research fee that is applied to the cost of your trip at booking.  I rarely do this unless it is a very detailed itinerary that is going to require more time than most bookings.)

10.   We are as excited about your trip as you are.  We can't wait to hear from you upon your return and love to see your pictures.  We want to know about that fabulous restaurant and that place that was a disappointment.  Your feedback helps us to be better when we book that destination again.

We do all of the above at no charge, we are paid by our suppliers, it does not cost you a dime.  So next time you get that travel bug, give us a call, we should always be your first stop in planning a memorable adventure.

Until next time, safe travels!


Quote of the Week:   “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” – Helen Keller

Another Four Great Getaways

Received lots of response to the first blog that I did on Great Getaways, so here are four more to add to your bucket list.

1.  Boston, Massachusetts-A great city full of history, charm and amazing seafood.  Walk the Freedom Trail and learn so much about this country's great history.  This 2.5 mile trail through downtown Boston takes you to 16 historical sites.  You can walk the tour independently or take one of the organized walking tours.  On Tuesday, they even offer a Pub Tour because we all know those brave rebels found some of their courage at their local pub.  One stop you must make on The Freedom Trail is Faneuil Hall that has served as a marketplace and meeting hall since 1743.  The marketplace is teeming with food options and street entertainers.  It is on of my very favorite places in Boston.  Like most cities, their is an abundance of museums.  Two of the most notable is the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum and Library and the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum.  And of course, baseball fans will want to see historic Fenway Park. Music lovers will want to see the Boston Pops.  The list just goes on and on.   This is just a great city for a quick four day weekend or you could spend a full week here and not run out of things to do.

Faneuil Hall

Tours are available at Fenway

2.  Washington, D.C.-Everyone needs to visit our nation's capitol at least once.  It is a stunningly beautiful city, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.  To stand on the National Mall and gaze in either direction is a moment that you won't soon forget.  Of course, there are accommodations of all kinds in the city and they are expensive (expect to pay for parking, like all cities) but most of the attractions are free so it helps offset the financial burden.  Visit the Capitol Building and stand under the third largest dome in the world.  The building itself is a work of art and it is inspiring to stand at the top of the stairs where so many of our presidents have taken the oath of office.   Climb the Washington Monument, visit the Vietnam memorial, sit for a moment at Lincoln Memorial,  See the White House and the National Zoo (it is free too).  Dedicate several hours to the Smithsonian, it is also free and well worth the time.  I still laugh at the memory of my husband realizing that his first bike was housed in the Smithsonian, he was horrified that he's was old enough for that to happen.   To read more about the national memorials, the zoo and the Smithsonian,  go to  http://washington.org/washington-dc-monuments-memorials.    When it comes to eating the restaurants run the gamut from fast food to very exclusive,  Remember that this our nation's captiol and like all capitols, prices are on the high side.  There are all kinds of tours available but try to find one that transports you from place to place and you can get off and on as you desire.  Some offer multi-day passes.  There is not a bad time to visit but cherry blossom time draws more crowds and of course, the 4th of July is one huge party.  Take your time, learn your history, savor the beauty of the city, it is a trip that is well worth taking.

Celebrate the 4th in our Nation's Capitol.

Photo looking down the National Mall

3.  Portland, Maine-What an unexpected little gem of a city.  I had no plans to visit but it was a port of call on a cruise that I took and I am so glad that we visited and we have returned here a couple times since.  It is a small city of about 66,000 people but if you include the suburbs, Portland houses almost a quarter of Maine's population.  It sits right on Casco Bay and is home to the U.S.'s first lighthouse, the famous Portland Head Light.  It was commissioned by George Washington and was built in 1791.  They have a great little museum and the photo opportunities abound.  The Old Port district is probably my favorite place in Portland.  It is crammed full of cute little shopa and boutiques and lots of great places to eat.  I usually try to book accommodations within walking distance of the Old Port, and there are lots available.  Like all cities, Portland does have museums of all kinds and its own symphony.  It is a pretty casual town so leave the dressy clothes at home.  Remember, you are on the water and pretty far north so layers are recommended.  In the summer months, it gets cool when the sun sets and the wind off the water and we all know winters in Maine are pretty frosty, so dress appropriately.  Of course, Portland is famous for its seafood, particularly, the lobster.  I just love sitting on the waterfront savoring a Lobster Mac-n-Cheese......just thinking about it makes me want to go back.  For more on the culinary scene in this great town, check out  http://www.visitportland.com/dining-portland-maine.aspx.  Beer aficionados  will love this town   with its abundance of microbreweries and pubs.   Enjoy a local craft beer will enjoying pub fare.  So, if you are like me and Portland, ME was not even on the radar, give it a try because I am sure you will really enjoy a visit to this lovely northern city.

Old Port 

Portland Head Light

4.  Toronto, Ontario, Canada-In the interest of full disclosure, I was born in this beautiful, ethnically diverse city on Lake Ontario.  It is city of towering skyscrapers that are all dwarfed by the amazing CN Tower.  It is home to world class shopping and dining.  Again, as in all major cities, accommodations run the gamut from budget to luxury.  One of my personal favorites is the Fairmont Royal York, which is more on the luxury side, but it is just a grand old hotel with hand painted ceilings and Travertine columns.  All the neighborhoods in the city have their own unique personalities so try to visit as many as you can.  Visit the St. Lawrence Market. which dates back to 1803 and offers cheese. meats, produce and baked goods.  Most vendors will give you a sample so try anything that looks appealing.  While there try the Paddinton Pump Restaurant.  All there food comes from the market and don't let the lines stop you, they move quickly.   During the summer, a trip out to Centre Island.  When I was a kid this was the highlight of our visits to Toronto.  It has something for everyone.  The ferry trip alone is worth the trip because views of the skyline are spectacular.  Once there enjoy the small amusement park for the little ones, rent a bike or rowboat or get lost in the wonderful maze.  Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the 50 square metres of park.  Another favorite of mine, is the very trendy Distillery District.  This place was designed with foodies in mind, with its many restaurants and breweries.  The old brick factories of this neighborhood have been turned into wonderful galleries and storefronts which makes it a lovely place to spend an evening.  Make a trip to the iconic CN Tower and go to the top, the views defy description and for the more adventurous among us, you can walk the rim of the Tower's upper rim (weather permitting)....crazy, if you ask me!  Of course the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must see for hockey fans where they can get their picture taken with the Stanley Cup (unless is it on loan to the reigning NHL Championship city).  Again, there are endless museums, theaters and music venues to explore.  If going, check Toronto's calendar of events because there is always something going on in Canada's largest city.

Shot of CN Tower from Centre Island

Distillery District

Toronto has a gorgeous skyline at night

Hope this gives you some ideas for your next getaway.  Until next time, safe travels!