tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6137623845050884392024-02-06T21:19:58.184-08:00Dawn of TravelAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-77236069151785484872017-01-23T08:22:00.000-08:002017-01-23T08:23:55.443-08:00Valuable Travel Tips<div class="MsoNormal">
Those of you who follow my blog will recognize these travel tips from my site. I do print and copy them and include them with the documents that I give my clients. Just a few things that I have learned over the years that make travelling a bit easier.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Always,
always, always, contact your credit and/or debit card companies before you
leave home and advise them of your upcoming trip. In these days of credit card
fraud and identity theft, if you do not do this, your cards will be locked and
you will not be able to use them which could be a nightmare. Try to keep cash
to a minimum (though I do recommend have a few bucks handy for those moments
when someone doesn’t take credit cards). ATM’s are readily available at most
places in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Check with
your health insurance company and determine if you have coverage when traveling
internationally. If not, make sure to
purchase trip insurance that covers your medical needs. Accidents happen everywhere and you need to
protect yourself. Also, if renting a
car, the same applies for car insurance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Get
yourself a really good tour book and read it, prior to your trip or on the
plane so you are somewhat familiar with the cultural norms at your destination.
Things that are acceptable at home may not be so in other lands. You never want
to insult the residents of your host country. Always remember their way may not
be the same as ours but it is not wrong, it is only different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-When
travelling abroad it is best not to talk politics. Not every country has the
freedoms that we do, so err on the side of caution and leave the political
banter at home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Do not let
your cell phone roam or you may come home to an astronomical bill. Either set
up an international plan before you leave or use your phone only on Wi-Fi. This
tip holds true for cruises also because once you enter international waters you
will get hit with very expensive charges.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-When you
check into your hotel, ask for their business card (one for each member of your
party). That way, if you get lost, are too tired to walk or had one drink too
many, you can simply hail a cab and give the driver your card. Even if you
don't speak the local language, it will be obvious where you want to go!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Always
carry pjs, a change of clothes, a toothbrush, your jewelry or any other
valuables and any necessary prescription drugs in your carryon. Keep a copy of
your itinerary in your checked bag. In the event that you and your bags get
separated, the airline can quickly determine exactly where you are going to be
and that will expedite the process of getting those bags back to you and in the
meantime, you should be okay for 24 hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-In some
destinations, like the Dominican Republic or Mexico, it is wise to drink only
bottled water. Also order drinks without
ice and bear in mind that fresh fruit and vegetables are washed in local
water. No matter what your destination, it is always advisable to travel with Imodium and Pepcid or something similar, just in case. <b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When
traveling abroad, always leave a copy of your passport at home. Also have a
copy in your suitcase or take a picture of it with your phone. In the unlikely
event that your passport should be lost or stolen, it is much easier to replace
when you have a copy with all of the pertinent information needed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-Border
control agents DO NOT understand humor or sarcasm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">-In these
uncertain times, it may be a good idea to register with the State Department’s
International travelers program at </span><a href="https://step.state.gov/step/pages/common/citizenship.aspx"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">https://step.state.gov/step/pages/common/citizenship.aspx</span></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">.
In the event of a natural disaster or any other unforeseen event, it
helps if the government knows how to locate you. I register every time I travel
internationally. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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So, until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<b><i>Today's Quote: " You don't have to be rich to travel well." --Eugene Fodor </i></b><br />
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<img src="https://letcteachers.files.wordpress.com/2012/06/packing_suitcase.jpg" /><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-86809811018044827632017-01-09T09:30:00.001-08:002017-01-10T06:43:10.842-08:00My Happy PlaceI know that I have been absent for some time. Life and family obligations can get in the way sometimes and make it hard to have time for anything else. I missed writing about my passion and it got me thinking about the reasons that I travel. I don't have an instant or flippant response. For me, it is as necessary as breathing, it fulfills a need that is deep and ever present.<br />
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It is impossible for me to understand people that look at me and say that they have no desire to travel. I don't understand a total lack of curiosity about this great, big, wonderful planet that we inhabit. Why wouldn't your ears want to hear the alien but magical, lyrical languages of the world? How can you go through life without tasting and savoring new and exotic dishes from the far corners of this earth? Who doesn't want to feel the warm African sun on their face as the tall giraffes saunter by or the cold night air on your face as the Northern Lights dance across the sky? Whose eyes don't want to turn upward to look for the highest peak in the Alps or view the unreal color of Lake Louise? How can one go through life and not hear the ever present music on the streets of New Orleans or the sound of the Mediterranean waves as they meet the shore on the Amalfi Coast? After all, it is what life is about, isn't it??<br />
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I know there are people that never want to leave the safe confines of the small town they grew up in. Others are only comfortable within the borders of their own countries but it is hard for me to imagine. Where do they go when the every day stresses start to get to them? I close my eyes and see Crow's Foot Glacier in the Canadian Rockies, or maybe I can see myself on the rocky beach at the Cape of Good Hope with the waves crashing all around me. Sometimes it is the Eiffel Tower that makes me smile or the chiming of Big Ben echoing in my mind. These places make me smile and bring me peace and ease my every day troubles. I suppose that is why, I always feel the need to explore somewhere new, I need an endless supply of "Happy Places" to go to when necessary. Those places that evoke warm memories of fun times in distant lands. It makes the day to day more manageable. <br />
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Every nation that I have visited has a distinct and different feel than any other. Foods may be similar, Navajo flatbread tastes just like Yorkshire pudding and beignets are like Funnel cake but they are both native to their own cultures. Languages may be similar like Italian and Spanish but they too are indigenous to their own lands. Traffic may be the same in Paris and Philadelphia but despite Philly's reputation for being tough, the Parisian taxi drivers put them to shame (I still have not recovered from that cab ride, 20 years ago). <br />
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I think what I have come to understand over the years is that we have far more in common that we do different and we need to embrace our differences with curiosity and interest and get to know each other. I have met so many wonderful people from all over the world and though our interactions were brief, each and every one of them taught me something that led to a greater understanding of their culture. It is my fervent wish that everyone could have the opportunities that I have had because it may be our only hope of making the entire planet a "Happy Place". <br />
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Until next time, safe travels!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-16088284444134984922016-05-24T11:11:00.000-07:002016-05-24T11:11:52.633-07:00Sedona, ArizonaI never knew about this little gem in Arizona until I came across it when planning my first trip to the Grand Canyon. The more I read, the more intrigued I became with the town nestled in the great red rocks. I decided to spend one night there, just to see what was all about and have returned there for longer visits. It is a beautiful and some believe, a magical place.<br />
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Sedona sits in the Arizona desert (about 113 miles from Phoenix to the south and 114 miles from the Grand Canyon to the North) and is surrounded by enormous red rock buttes, steep canyon walls and beautiful pine forests. You can do your sightseeing by horseback, by jeep or even by hot air balloon. It is home to numerous trailheads and Red Rock State Park which offers great hiking. We chose to investigate on our own and stumbled upon ancient pueblo ruins just outside of town. A ranger took us on a private tour we actually could walk in the rooms of the ancient people that built these amazing shelters. <br />
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If wandering around in the Arizona desert (home to at least a dozen poisonous species) doesn't appeal to you there is plenty to do in Sedona. It is home to more that 40 art galleries and artwork abounds in the town. You can also pamper yourself at more than a dozen spa facilities. Many tourists visit solely to experience the vortex energy centers in the area. The Native Americans have always considered this area to be sacred and a place for healing and spiritual rejuvenation. Modern man has contributed to the popularity of Sedona as well. There is a recreated Mexican village, complete with cobblestone streets that is full of shops and restaurants and is a great way to while away a couple of hours. One of my personal favorite man made attractions is the Chapel of the Holy Cross which was designed by Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright and sits nestled in the gorgeous red rocks. It happens to be a Roman Catholic church but no matter what your belief it is well worth a visit.<br />
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Again, there all kinds of accommodations in Sedona. There are many luxury properties (including spa resorts) but I have always stayed at the Best Western Arroyo Roble Hotel and Creekside Villas. On our first visit, we just booked a standard room and the views were spectacular and when traveling with the kids we booked one of their villas, which was great. It is close to attractions, within walking distance of some restaurants and shops and offers free breakfast. It is a great mid-range hotel and I will stay there again when I return. <br />
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There are a wide variety of restaurants in Sedona for every palate and pocketbook. Depending on the time of year, reservations may be a good idea. During peak tourist time, the lines can get long. Again, I recommend that you try the local fare, we really enjoyed buffalo burgers with cactus fries. We ordered it again on our return. Be adventurous, why eat something that you can get at home!<br />
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If you want to take a beautiful drive from Sedona, head for Oak Creek Canyon. Words won't do it justice but if scenic drives are your thing don't miss it. You will also find the local Navajo selling their wares along the way. If you are a sucker for Native American turquoise jewelry, like I am, you will find everything imaginable at a really fair price. We purchased an original piece of art painted on a piece of red rock and spoke with the artist at length. It is one of our most cherished souvenirs. <br />
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So, if you are headed to the Grand Canyon, consider stopping in Sedona for a couple of days. It is a place worth exploring and will leave lasting, cherished memories. <br />
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Until next time, safe travels! <br />
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<b><i>Quote of the Week: </i></b>People don’t take trips, trips take
people. ----John Steinbeck<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-74468677658370803892016-04-01T08:26:00.000-07:002016-04-01T08:26:03.376-07:00San FranciscoI 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. <br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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. <br />
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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. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Gate to Chinatown</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just love the traffic lights in Chinatown.</td></tr>
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<b>Quote of the Week: </b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Travel often; getting lost will help you find yourself. –Unknown</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-51875700321493060442016-03-23T06:59:00.001-07:002016-03-23T06:59:29.405-07:00The Canadian Rockies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Louise</td></tr>
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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.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crow's Foot Glacier</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Snocat atop the glacier</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freezing atop the glacier (of course, it is a gigantic ice cube!)</td></tr>
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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.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My twins at Athabasca Falls</td></tr>
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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.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bighorn Sheep<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-48367098215595284452016-03-15T08:23:00.000-07:002016-03-21T09:07:09.876-07:00Seville, 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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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". <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Portada lit up at midnight.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter and I at the Portada on the first day of La Feria.</td></tr>
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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.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dancing in the Public Caseta.</td></tr>
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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. <br />
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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.<br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-64477142564984122852016-02-26T11:05:00.000-08:002016-02-29T10:41:05.441-08:00More Bucket List AdditionsThese are some of the places and experiences that gave me such vivid and treasured memories. Everyone should add them to their Bucket list.<br />
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1. <b>Enjoy cocktails on the African plain- </b>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.<br />
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2. <b>Walk across a live runway while crossing an international border-</b>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.<br />
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3. <b>Eat a frankfurter in Frankfurt-</b>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.<br />
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4. <b>Stand in the room where William Shakespeare was born-</b>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.<br />
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5. <b>Run the steps of the Philadelphia Art Museum like Rocky-</b>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.)<br />
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6. <b>See the amazing gardens in Keukenhof, the Netherlands-</b>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.<br />
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7. <b>Sit and experience the Northern Lights-</b>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.<br />
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8. <b>Stroll the streets of San Francisco's Chinatown-</b>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.<br />
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9.<b> Whale Watch off the coast of Plymouth, Massachusetts-</b>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.<br />
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10. <b>Walk the beautiful beaches and wonderful boardwalks of New Jersey-</b>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.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-71237552875279827792016-02-09T12:30:00.000-08:002016-02-09T12:30:01.223-08:00Cape Breton IslandI 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. <br />
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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. <br />
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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. <br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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. <br />
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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. <br />
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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.<br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvX-HZsPSACMCKdOdUqyVBAb3FL0Y_U6UzSKotqlBa8b0zMsN_WUWNh2846O6jTiZmEBEn4wXwVy37i_YLknpAP_w60d_l18JJwzGo2-c8m2p9IkQt7t4hZ2jOfzeIZdxt7Bkt1IW0dvY/s1600/DSCN1374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvX-HZsPSACMCKdOdUqyVBAb3FL0Y_U6UzSKotqlBa8b0zMsN_WUWNh2846O6jTiZmEBEn4wXwVy37i_YLknpAP_w60d_l18JJwzGo2-c8m2p9IkQt7t4hZ2jOfzeIZdxt7Bkt1IW0dvY/s320/DSCN1374.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the little fishing villages along the trail</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWUG_usl1pThMQxJVSVj1Eeqh0b0lpCQsrfxze3r-X7SUj08e8F3SeTgn9gJsybpOvDlt5qtjW17P7pqQkEecEmnhXoEC9N5fAOreMpIagKqO0Xdw1NQbQKjyhrvtldN8Tj0LFf0qa3M/s1600/DSCN1386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWUG_usl1pThMQxJVSVj1Eeqh0b0lpCQsrfxze3r-X7SUj08e8F3SeTgn9gJsybpOvDlt5qtjW17P7pqQkEecEmnhXoEC9N5fAOreMpIagKqO0Xdw1NQbQKjyhrvtldN8Tj0LFf0qa3M/s320/DSCN1386.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just one example of the beautiful scenery</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphOE1tmaZCCg6PE5zcBHG9VIHJGi1lew8BkXoPFWduucoWFuku-AVrgMdSHROyO8UrbN63tne4Cd0RRRNaleENVnghZMlD7sV8Xb22JNYSaDFawP_eGYunGg__RdgVw1rZaVqoGzLtrc/s1600/DSCN1388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjphOE1tmaZCCg6PE5zcBHG9VIHJGi1lew8BkXoPFWduucoWFuku-AVrgMdSHROyO8UrbN63tne4Cd0RRRNaleENVnghZMlD7sV8Xb22JNYSaDFawP_eGYunGg__RdgVw1rZaVqoGzLtrc/s320/DSCN1388.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beaches are rocky but beautiful</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujvxvfS9mAU2ds1JqAPaYfsl3u6usPzTmfYQMV4ie44ZNuegYrIksXmi1mTBOtroKXnj61AP5-JDNde_FaX-a7vNgUMIamG1GW5ywz45AEBGwsA0SuKlUJ3DuQEzDtlPD3nzF6V5ACkI/s1600/DSCN1413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujvxvfS9mAU2ds1JqAPaYfsl3u6usPzTmfYQMV4ie44ZNuegYrIksXmi1mTBOtroKXnj61AP5-JDNde_FaX-a7vNgUMIamG1GW5ywz45AEBGwsA0SuKlUJ3DuQEzDtlPD3nzF6V5ACkI/s320/DSCN1413.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband having some fun with Alexander Graham and Mrs. Bell</td></tr>
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<b>Quote of the Week: </b>All journeys have secret destinations of which
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-71543635787782557462016-01-20T11:39:00.002-08:002016-01-20T11:39:36.628-08:00 10 Good Reasons to Use a Travel AgentI 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.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";">1. We, quite simply, know more than you do. We are always training, getting certifications and visiting the</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">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.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>2.</b> We also have clout with many suppliers because we do business with them everyday. We can often get</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">that oceanview room that is unavailable on the websites.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b><br /></b><b>3. </b>When things go wrong, as they sometimes do, your travel agent will go above and beyond to make</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">things right. Again our influence with many suppliers that we use on a daily basis works in your favor. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">They will work hard to not only insure your satisfaction, but the travel agency's as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>4. </b>The best agents, will save you money. They have access to specials and discounts that you know</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">nothing about. Maybe it's a room upgrade or or beverage credit, or other amenities that will give you more bang for your buck.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>5. </b> 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</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">relax and do something that you enjoy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>6. </b>Your agent, can match you with the trip that best suits your needs. For example, a cruise line that</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">attracts a younger crowd would not be appropriate for retirees. Your agent will know the difference and steer you in the right direction.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>7. </b> We will know about that nonstop from your gateway city to your destination that may not be shown on</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">that internet site. Who wants to spend their time in airports when they don't have to?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>8. </b>Using a good, local agent will help protect your from travel scams. We know when a deal is too good</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">to be true and we know where to go to get the real lowdown. Countless people show up in our offices</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">asking for our assistance to recoup their money once they have been scammed by internet sites. As</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">badly as we feel for them, we cannot help because it was not booked through us. This is happening</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">with more and more frequency in recent years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>9. </b>You will receive all of our travel services at no charge and we usually are able to price match if you</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">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.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman";"><b>10.</b> We are as excited about your trip as you are. We can't wait to hear from you upon your return and</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";">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.</span></div>
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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.<br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<b><i>Quote of the Week: </i></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” – Helen Keller</span><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-67857612989413914882016-01-11T10:59:00.000-08:002016-01-11T21:19:07.265-08:00Another Four Great GetawaysReceived lots of response to the first blog that I did on Great Getaways, so here are four more to add to your bucket list.<br />
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1. <b>Boston, Massachusetts</b>-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. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/09/82/af/c4/faneuil-hall-historic.jpg" height="265" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Faneuil Hall<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://blog.sonos.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Fenway-Park.jpg" height="240" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tours are available at Fenway</td></tr>
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2. <b>Washington, D.C.-</b>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<a href="http://washington.org/washington-dc-monuments-memorials"> http://washington.org/washington-dc-monuments-memorials. </a> 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.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i.telegraph.co.uk/multimedia/archive/02037/Washington_DC_Fire_2037787b.jpg" height="200" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Celebrate the 4th in our Nation's Capitol.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo looking down the National Mall</td></tr>
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3. <b> Portland, Maine-</b>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 <a href="http://www.visitportland.com/dining-portland-maine.aspx">http://www.visitportland.com/dining-portland-maine.aspx</a>. 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.<br />
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Old Port </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portland Head Light</td></tr>
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4. <b> Toronto, Ontario, Canada-</b>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.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.newcollege.utoronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/centre-island.png" height="258" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shot of CN Tower from Centre Island</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Distillery District</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://thriftytourist.ca/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Toronto-Skyline-at-Night-580x386.jpg" height="266" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toronto has a gorgeous skyline at night</td></tr>
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Hope this gives you some ideas for your next getaway. Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-83151069536431814082015-12-10T09:12:00.000-08:002015-12-11T07:09:30.888-08:00Travel Insurance-Ripoff or Necessity?I would like to share several things that have happened in my professional experience that argue for the necessity of trip insurance.<br />
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I always, I repeat,<b> ALWAYS</b>, encourage my clients to insure their travel investment with insurance. Most will purchase it, once I assure them that it is in their best interest to do so. But of course, there is always that stubborn few, that refuse to do so, stating that they are going, no matter what and insurance is a waste of money. The problem is that despite the best planning, life often gets in the way.</div>
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One of my all time favorite clients, a retired police officer, booked his wife's dream vacation to Paris,as a surprise for their anniversary. He refused to take the insurance because he felt is was an unnecessary expense. His wife was excited beyond words and we spent literally hours on the phone, planning every little detail to fulfill all the things on her bucket list. Two weeks prior to departure, he had a heart attack while mowing the lawn. Thankfully, he survived the attack but required open heart surgery and was told by his doctor, in no uncertain terms, that he could not travel to Paris. Of course, everything was nonrefundable and this couple could ill afford the loss of thousands of dollars. They called me just frantic and asked if there was any thing at all that I could do for them. I resisted the huge temptation to say, "I told you so" and told them that I would do the best that I could. Of course, the airlines would not budge on the airline tickets, so they were looking at huge change fees to use them in the future. But thanks to my good relationship with the tour company involved we were able to negotiate travel at a later date with just a small penalty. If they had purchased the trip insurance, they would have been covered for every cent that they had invested and it would have involved a phone call, a doctor's note and a claim form. It was a very expensive lesson for my client. The good news, is that he fully recovered and they went to Paris as planned, this time with insurance, and a wonderful picture of her dancing in the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles, hangs in my office to this day. </div>
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Another classic example, my clients were stuck in Disney World because of Hurricane Sandy. They called me just frantic when all flights were cancelled into Philadelphia on the day of their return. As you can well imagine, this was a very tough day for me and I was putting out fires everywhere. When I answered the phone, he was very upset and was practically yelling at me. I told him how fortunate he was to be riding out the storm in Disney with his wife and kids because I had clients in much worse places. I reminded him that the travel insurance that he had purchased would reimburse him for his trip delay. I told him to go back to the park and enjoy his extended vacation and to save all of his receipts. He laughed and thanked me for encouraging him to buy the insurance. Upon his return, we filed the claim, attached the receipts and the insurance company refunded every cent. Instead of a really bad experience, he could relax and enjoy time with his kids. </div>
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Most people do not understand that travel insurance not only covers trip cancellation but it also covers trip delay, trip interruption, baggage loss or delay and medical insurance (some medical insurance companies will not cover you when traveling abroad so you should always check before departure). I once had a client on Medicare (which does not cover medical outside of this country), fall and break his leg in Europe. Thankfully, he too, had purchased the insurance on my recommendation. Again, a phone call, a claim form with receipts and another happy reimbursed client. </div>
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There are many more examples that I could cite, a death in the family, an automobile accident on the way to the airport, I even had one client whose employer cancelled all vacations, these are just a few things that can and do happen. Insurance covered all of these scenarios. </div>
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On a more sobering note, with all of the scary things happening in the world today, insurance may be more important than ever. Check the fine print with your travel agent regarding terrorist acts. Some companies cover it, others do not. A really good option is the Cancel for any Reason policies, but for some, this may be cost prohibitive. Just educate yourself and get the policy that works best for you.</div>
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I hope these concrete real life examples help to convince you that travel insurance works very well when the need arises. Life is complicated, we can't predict the future and if you are making a significant investment, you should protect it. </div>
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Until next time, safe travels.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-46840956286746270852015-11-06T09:39:00.000-08:002015-11-06T09:39:46.358-08:00A Visit to the Wild West-Deadwood, SDWhat a great little place to spend a few days while visiting this part of the country. Even Deadwood's origins are illegal. The Black Hills had been given to the Lakota Indians in 1868 but Custer's discovery of gold soon led to an illegal settlement in 1870. Land disputes are still ongoing and have reached the United States Supreme Court on several occasions. It set the stage for what was to become a lawless mining town that would spawn folklore and legends that live on today. After its sordid past and a bout of smallpox and a devastating fire, Deadwood struggled to survive and hit some very hard times which came to an end in 1989 when the town legalized gambling and their financial troubles came to an end. In spite of, or perhaps, because of, its colorful past, modern day Deadwood is a fun little town to visit.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of downtown Deadwood.</td></tr>
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Accommodations are many and varied but try to stay in town so that you can walk everywhere. There are plenty of great restaurants located in its environs that run the gamut in quality and price. We ate at the Gem Steakhouse and the Deadwood Social Club. They were both wonderful, reservations recommended. Also Mustang Sally's was great for lunch. The casinos all have restaurants also so you certainly won't go hungry in Deadwood.</div>
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While visiting, take a tour and learn all about the characters and folklore of the town, we really enjoyed it. Of course, Deadwood's most famous citizens were Wild Bill Hickok, whose shooting in reenacted every day, and Calamity Jane whose relationship with Wild Bill is still the matter of much speculation. Both are buried in Mount Moriah Cemetery which sits high above the town and has some great views. There is a great little museum downtown if you want to learn more about the personalities and history of the area. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The graves of Deadwood's most famous citizens, Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane</td></tr>
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We used Deadwood as our base to visit the surrounding area. Of course Mount Rushmore, is a must see as is, the Crazy Horse Memorial. The latter is still in progress and probably will not see completion in my lifetime but it is impressive and completely privately funded. From time to time, there are blastings at night and you can watch. I am told it is really a neat thing to see. My personal favorite, in this area was the Needles Highway in Custer State Park. The views are rock formations are just stunning and of course there is wildlife everywhere. While visiting the area we saw antelope, wild horses, wild burros, mountain sheep and of course, American Bison. Most of them are harmless and will run should you get too close but be very wary of the bison, they can, and do, get very aggressive. Do not get out of your car unless they are a good distance away. People are hurt every year because they get to close and I, for one, do not want roughly 1400 pounds charging at me. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looks just like it does in pictures.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The wild burros walk right up to people.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Needles Highway</td></tr>
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We left Deadwood with some reluctance and traveled through the South Dakota Badlands on our way to Sioux Falls for our flight home. The Badlands are beautiful and desolate and also full of wildlife and it made a fitting ending to a great trip to the wild, wild west.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Badlands</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Couldn't believe how well these animals blend with the rocks.</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-85411155739031110792015-10-28T14:48:00.001-07:002015-10-28T14:48:50.391-07:00Family Travel-Plymouth, MassachusettsOne of our favorite Family destinations is Plymouth, Massachusetts. Plymouth is located approximately 40 miles south of Boston and is best known for Plymouth Rock where in 1620, the Pilgrims first set foot in our nation after arriving on the Mayflower and the site of the first Thanksgiving. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite pictures taken in Plymouth.</td></tr>
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There are several hotel chains represented in Plymouth for every taste and budget. When travelling with family, I always recommend one that offers breakfast, it is cheaper and so convenient. The closer to the waterfront the better because it can be tough to find parking especially in the summer months. <br />
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One of the best things to do with the kids is a visit to nearby Plimoth Plantation. The Plantation was founded in 1947 as a living history museum. It shows the how the original village of Plymouth looked in the 17th century. The "historical interpreters", as the staff are called, have been trained to speak, act and dress appropriate to that age. They speak with visitors, in the first person expressing viewpoints of the Pilgrims of 1620. They often represent actual people that once lived in there. They loosely follow the actual timeline of 1627 from March until November, celebrating events, deaths, funerals, births as they really happened in the past. The museum also recreates the nearby village of the Wampanoag, the native people of this area. These interpreters do not interact in character but they are in traditional dress and answer questions and offer information about their people of that time. Plimoth Plantation also manages the reproduction the Mayflower that is anchored in town. The Mayflower II, also has historical interpreters that represent real crew members of the original ship. This is a wonderful history lesson for the kids and an enjoyable day for the adults. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plimoth Plantation</td></tr>
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Perhaps the most unforgettable thing to do in this lovely town is the Whale Watching tour. The memory of my first experience with humpback whales off of this coastal Massachusetts town, is still vivid and moving. The size of these beautiful creatures is something that must be seen to be believed. The trip out of Plymouth takes you about 25 miles out to Stellwagen Bank, an 842 square mile National Marine Sanctuary, where the migrating whales feed. There are whales there all year but because of the migration, May and November are the best times to be there. I have done the watch several times and I have never been disappointed. I was even blessed enough to see whales breach (come straight out of the water) on a few occasions. These wonderful mammals are a wonder to behold and everyone should see it at least once. Tours are available every day, one morning and one afternoon departure. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Humpback whale breaching.</td></tr>
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Of course, you have to stroll down the main street to see Plymouth Rock, which has great historical significance but is a bit of a disappointment. I expected a huge rock and in reality it is quite small and this is just their best guess where the Pilgrims came ashore. Even so, take the walk, if only to get a chuckle about its size.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> My husband and twins with the Plymouth Rock historic Monument in the background,</td></tr>
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You can also take a boat ride over to Provincetown, at the tip of Cape Cod, for the day. P-town as it is often called is artsy, home to some great beaches and a real favorite of the LGBT community . While we were there, we took a dune buggy tour of the enormous sand dunes around this popular tourist destination. It was not only interesting but great fun. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My twins rolling down the sand dunes in Provincetown.</td></tr>
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Plymouth, like most tourist towns, offers endless options for dining. I encourage everyone to go with the seafood dishes because what you are eating was probably swimming less than 24 hours ago. The endless options of seafood has something for everyone. There are lots of shops along the main street to wander through after dinner and you might even want to take a Ghost Tour through this very old city or perhaps, just sit oceanfront and watch the stars over the Atlantic Ocean.<br />
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Though I have been here often, I do plan to visit again, this time with grandchildren. I want to watch yet another generation in awe as they see the incredible humpbacks off the Massachusetts coast and their endless questions as they explore Plimoth Plantation. There is nothing quite like it. <br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-9638500440616893212015-10-20T10:34:00.001-07:002016-03-31T10:02:02.674-07:00Ten Things For Your Bucket ListWhen, I was a young girl, growing up in a very small Canadian prairie town, I used to sit on the banks of a nearby lake. As I watched the pelicans frolic, I would wonder where they would fly when they left the snowy north for their summer homes. It was then that I began to make a wish list. Later, in my adolescence, now living in a suburban New Jersey town, I devoured everything that James Michener and others, wrote about different countries, their histories, their cultures and their people. My list grew and grew. And, I confess, it continues to grow even now.<br />
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In my opinion, everyone should have a Bucket List. It is so wonderful to imagine things for a very long time and then actually do them. Below are some of the things that I have been lucky enough to do and they will remain with me for the rest of my life. You might want to try them, too!<br />
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<b>Watch the sunset over the Grand Canyon-</b>I often tell people that everyone should see the Grand Canyon at least once in there lives. There, quite simply, aren't words to describe the stunning views. The sunset changes the colors in the Canyon and if I close my eyes, I can still see it. I am told that the sunrises are equally amazing. I chose sunset because I wanted to see the stars at night, something worth doing also and who wants to get up that early, especially on vacation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset on the Canyon.</td></tr>
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<b>Feel the mist coming of Niagara Falls-</b>It doesn't matter what time of year that I visit the Falls, it still manages to take my breath away. They are best viewed from the Canadian side and what a view!! Forget all the souvenir shops and the other tourist oriented things, just stroll along the Niagara River Gorge and feel the mist and enjoy the lovely gardens. They also freeze from time to time and that is a sight not many get to see.<br />
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<b>See the Mona Lisa in person-</b>Everyone should see this iconic piece of art that hangs in the Louvre. Though encased in plastic and surrounded by a crowd, most of the time, it is still quite something to view the mysterious smile in person. <br />
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<b>Sit and watch the world go by on the Champs-Elysee</b>-Who hasn't seen those old newsreels of the troops marching down the Champs-Elysee when liberating Paris. This is an absolute "must do" in the City of Lights. You won't be alone, many Parisians sit and savor their beautiful city on this beautiful street.<br />
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<b>Stand below Big Ben in London and listen to Westminster Chimes-</b>It was a great moment when I heard that very familiar tune from its original source. I had pictured that moment since I first saw a picture of the Parliament Buildings in London, at a very young age. <br />
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<b>Visit the Anne Frank House-</b>Though a very sobering experience, I wanted to pay homage to the bravery of a little girl under horrific circumstances. It did bring tears to my eyes but it is something that will stay with <span style="text-align: left;"> me forever.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The room where Anne pasted pictures from magazines<br />
(this is the room that just moved me to tears).</td></tr>
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<b>Walk on a glacier-</b>I have been lucky enough to do this twice. The Athabasca Glacier on the Icefields Parkway in Alberta is enormous. They take you up in a vehicle with wheels that are taller than the average person and they do let you actually walk on the glacier. It is said that when you drink the water from the glacier it adds 10 years to your life, so I guess I get 20 more. People always ask if it is cold....of course it is, you are literally standing on a mountain of ice! </div>
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<b>Stand on the top of the Rock of Gibralter-</b>Wow, what a view!! It is not hard to figure out why the rock is such a strategic piece of real estate sitting at the entrance to the Mediterranean. What I didn't know when I imagined visiting here was that the rock is the home to wild apes. No one is quite sure how they arrived, the most common theory is they stowed away on a ship but now they own the rock. They tolerate humans pretty well and leave us alone but it was such fun to watch the babies. </div>
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<b>To walk the ruins of Pompeii-</b>I remember the first time that I heard the story of Pompeii, I was just fascinated. It was a lifetime later before I actually got there but my fascination hadn't ebbed. Though it felt a bit morbid to be walking around what is, in essence, a tomb, what remains of the city is a wealth of information. Standing in the shadow of Mt. Vesuvius and knowing the terror that befell these people was another sobering yet memorable moment.</div>
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<b>Walk across the London Bridge-</b>I remember wishing I could do this when I was a child. Today it is a bit trickier than it was when I was a kid because the London Bridge is no longer in London. It now stands in Lake Havasu City, AZ. So that is where I went to cross another item off my bucket list. When the City of London was going to dismantle the old bridge to make way for a new one, a wealthy AZ businessman bought it and moved the bridge piece by piece and reconstructed it. The bullet holes of WWII are still in the bridge. A real piece of history. </div>
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So, that is just ten of the items that I have been fortunate enough to cross off my bucket list, there are many, many more that I will happily share in the future but in the meantime, start your own list. It is a big world with so much to see, so what are you waiting for???</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-66207869739902417972015-10-05T10:23:00.001-07:002015-10-06T07:27:38.725-07:00Five Favorite Short Getaway CitiesThis morning I woke up with the itch. That familiar restlessness that I know can only be resolved in one way, take a trip. I am so grateful for this wanderlust, it has taken me to wonderful places where I have met warm, welcoming people. I have eaten exotic foods and tried new and different things which only leaves me longing for more. I know it is genetic as my parents are the only people that I have ever known that have walked on all seven continents and they instilled that desire to see, feel, experience in me, for which I will always thank them.<br />
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I have just a few days but I will open this computer later this afternoon and look for somewhere that I have never been before and start making my plans. It is a process that is almost as fun in the planning as it is in the actual doing. I will look for charming, different with great food and lots to do and believe me, this country is full of such places as is our beautiful neighbor to the north, Canada. I have been blessed to travel to 45 of the 50 states and 7 of the 10 Canadian provinces and there is so much that I haven't seen just yet. So today, we will talk about some of my favorite short getaway destinations (not in any particular order, I love them all.)<br />
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1. <b>New Orleans</b>-I have blogged about this beautiful city before. I often travel here for a 4/5 day getaway. It is a very short flight from the East Coast and it offers accommodations of every variety and food that just defies description. But the thing that I love most about this wonderful European flavored city is the abundance of music. You hear it on every street corner in the French Quarter. There are street entertainers every where and I defy you not to smile as you stroll the streets lined with ancient and beautiful Pin Oak trees.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jackson Square, New Orleans</td></tr>
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2. <b>Quebec City</b>-Another French influenced city that offers so much to see, do and eat. There are all types of accommodations but when I travel to this lovely city, I stay behind the walls of Old Quebec at the majestic Chateau Frontenac. Opened in 1893, the Chateau (which is currently operated by Fairmont) sits atop a cliff overseeing the St. Lawrence Seaway and the views are spectacular. It is by far, the most prominent structure in the Quebec City skyline and is said to be one of the most photographed hotels in the world. The Old City is full of shops and restaurants and Rue du Tresor or Artists Alley where you can buy an original piece of art as a souvenir. I will blog further about this lovely place in the future but it is a great getaway from the east coast.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rue du Tresor (Artists' Alley)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chateau Frontenac, Old Quebec City</td></tr>
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3.<b> Charleston, South Carolina-</b>This city is loaded with Low Country southern charm. Again, there are accommodations of every variety but my favorite is the Embassy Suites that is the site of the original Citadel. It is lovely and historic and in a very good location right down the street from the Visitors' Center. Again, the food is wonderful. If you want real Low Country Southern cooking this is the place to go. The city itself is full of history and a ferry ride over to Fort Sumter where the first shots of the Civil War were fired is worth the trip. Take some time to see one of the many plantations and a city tour and learn about this charming southern city. Again an easy drive or plane ride from the east coast.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset in Charleston</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Battery, Charleston</td></tr>
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4. <b>Baltimore, Maryland- </b>This is a city that I really have come to appreciate over the past few years. There are accommodations of every type available but stay down at the Inner Harbor or up at Fell's Point. Again, there is plenty to do and see, but make the aquarium a priority. It is the finest that I have ever visited. When in Baltimore, you must eat the crabs. They have it in every possible form all over this great city but crabcakes are my favorite though my husband is a big fan of Crab bisque soup. Fell's Point offers restaurants and bars of every variety and on a warm summer evening it is a very busy place. I will blog in greater detail about this great east coast city in the future but suffice it to say, it is worth a visit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkeNc_PXU4IWXnkzc60ByTRx9OJLJQiQigBZmgfBGoMYLAOEMqX1FtvX7CbBjGM7jnPp8jdT2zqpc9OHiTmwkKR4vt4pww70Wz6zXwpb_sWwauANgxZt2iMHtwBhgwLKS628Q7PNpxHdQ/s1600/Baltimore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkeNc_PXU4IWXnkzc60ByTRx9OJLJQiQigBZmgfBGoMYLAOEMqX1FtvX7CbBjGM7jnPp8jdT2zqpc9OHiTmwkKR4vt4pww70Wz6zXwpb_sWwauANgxZt2iMHtwBhgwLKS628Q7PNpxHdQ/s320/Baltimore.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baltimore at Dusk</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fells Point, Baltimore</td></tr>
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5. <b>Philadelphia, Pennsylvania</b>-In the interest of full disclosure, I live right across the river from this historic city but even I will cross the bridge and stay for a weekend. Again, the variety of accommodations is endless but try to find something close to the historic district. A trip to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the Constitution Center is a must. Of course, every tourist wants to run up the Art Museum steps (until they actually see them) and do the Rocky dance at the top, so go for it. The restaurants run the gamut also but you must try a Philly soft pretzel and a cheesesteak before you head home. Pat's and Geno's have an ongoing battle over "Best Cheesesteak in Philly" but there a plenty of places that make great ones. Don't leave without trying one. For the more adventurous, try Scrapple or Pork Roll and Tastykake's Peanut Butter Tandy Kakes, other Philly favorites. If you are looking for a 4th of July trip, this is absolutely the place to be, The Birthplace of America, because Philly really knows how to celebrate our nation's birthday. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liberty Bell and Independence Hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Philadelphia Art Museum<br />
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Hope this will give a start when you get that travel bug and only have a few days to spend. I will add more to this list in the coming months but right now, I am off to find another hidden treasure. So until then, safe travels.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-84696863265347854122015-09-11T12:59:00.000-07:002015-09-11T12:59:32.845-07:00Vatican CityWhen I saw Vatican City, the smallest independent country in the world, it took my breath away. I am a Roman Catholic so I am sure that it moved me in a way that it may not move everyone, but that being said, it really is a stunningly beautiful place. <br />
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St. Peter's Basilica has the largest dome in the world (second is St. Paul's in London, third is the US Capitol building) and it is so impressive. Our first view was at night and it was lit up and was visible from a great distance. We returned the next morning to visit the Vatican Museum that houses so many indescribable treasures that have been collected by the Popes for centuries. It contains not only works of art but archaeological treasures as well. Unfortunately, our schedule did not allow us to saunter through these wonderful rooms in a leisurely way. I hope, one day, to remedy that and spend some time poking around this impressive collection.<br />
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Once we left the museum, we entered, the Sistine Chapel. This small little chapel with its famous ceiling moved me in a way that I was totally unprepared for. As I gazed at Michelangelo's ceiling, I suddenly realized that I was standing in the place where the Pope's kneel to pray, alone, immediately after their election. The historical significance brought tears to my eyes. Despite being surrounded by tourists, that moment was very spiritual for me. Whatever ones religious beliefs this is a place built to honor God, by true believers and it is a masterpiece that defies description.<br />
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Next stop, St. Peter's Basilica. The central door dates back to 1455 with depictions of St. Peter and St. Paul. I had to stop and take in the vastness of the basilica and noticed that most people paused for a moment. I immediately spotted Michelangelo's Pieta on the right side which is now shielded by thick glass after being damaged by a tourist a view years ago. This is the only piece ever signed by the artist and it can be seen on Mary's belt. Though we have all seen duplicates and pictures of this piece, there is nothing like seeing the original work of art. The basilica is full of entombed popes and saints including John XXIII, the benevolent and much beloved Pope of my childhood. The more recent Popes, have been entombed beneath the Basilica with the first head of the Roman Catholic Church, Saint Peter. <br />
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As you leave the Vatican you pass the Swiss Guard (the Pope's personal detail) and enter St. Peter's Square that is familiar to all of us. But like the Pieta, there is nothing like seeing it in person. High above the balustrade and columns are sculptures of 140 saints. The square is impressive in size and it was just swarming with tourists during our visit. It was not hard to envision the crowds during a papal election.<br />
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I do recommend a visit if you are in Rome but try to get your tickets prior to your arrival as the lines are very long. Or opt for a tour, they get right in and there is no waiting. If you arrive in Rome without a ticket, speak with your hotel concierge and they will make arrangements for you.<br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Central door into St. Peter's</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Depiction of Christ and St. Peter</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Swiss Guard</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A few of the 140 statues of Saints.</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-40394828806231505132015-09-04T19:00:00.000-07:002015-09-04T19:00:42.226-07:00ParisMy very first view of the iconic Eiffel Tower was from the backseat of a cab careening through the streets of Paris. Despite the perilous ride, it was a wonderful moment. I could not believe that I was finally in the beautiful City of Lights.<br />
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Like London, the accommodations in Paris run the gamut from budget hostels to five star luxury hotels. The more impressive and expensive properties are located on the more formal Right Bank and they are gorgeous but costly. I personally prefer the Left Bank where the hotels are more moderately priced and offer some old world charm. You can find so real gems in the shadow of Notre Dame, St. Germain du Pres and even the Louvre. Remember that hotel rooms in Europe offer little in the way of elbow room and may feel cramped to those of us that are accustomed to big, spacious American hotel rooms. Most rooms offer TV with CNN and BBC in English and internet (not always free) and some are now offering air conditioning. Traditionally, a continental breakfast which consists of a croissant or pastry and coffee is included with your hotel stay.<br />
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There is so much to do and see in this old city. Of course, a must do is the Eiffel Tower. It is the most visited paid monument in the world with almost 7 million visitors a year. There are 1665 steps to the top but most of us opt for the elevators. I always recommend a trip up the tower at dusk. There is nothing like standing on the platform and watching the lights come up all over the city. The view is spectacular and it becomes obvious why Paris is often called the City of Lights. You can avoid the lines by reserving a ticket online prior to your visit.<br />
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Also, visit Hotel des Invalides, the eternal resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte. His remains lay directly below the spectacular golden dome (said to be the inspiration for the American Capitol Building) in six coffins, one inside the other similar to Russian nesting dolls. The tomb is very large and very impressive. The building also houses the French Army museum, including Napoleon's uniform and tri-corner hat.<br />
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Of course, every tourist wants to take a leisurely stroll down the Champs-Elysees toward the magnificent Arc de Triomphe which most of us remember from the newsreel movies of the liberation of Paris. This historic landmark was built by Napoleon and was inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus because Bonaparte considered himself the heir to the Roman emperors. The Arc is known for its impressive sculptures and they are really something to see. France's Unknown Soldier is buried beneath the arch and a memorial flame is lit every night at 6:30pm, The traffic circle around the Arc radiates out into 12 avenues and is infamous for its traffic accidents. Watching the traffic from the top the Arc de Triomphe is definitely not for the faint hearted.<br />
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A trip to Paris would not be complete without a visit to one of the most famous and largest museums in the world, the Louvre. The most famous pieces housed in this historic gallery are the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and Winged Victory. Where you go after seeing these three amazing works of art depends on your personal interests. Suffice it to say that you could literally spend days viewing these spectacular works of art so it is best to pick up one of the museums excellent color coded maps and prioritize according to your interests. Passes for the Louvre can be purchased stateside to avoid the long lines.<br />
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While in Paris, we attended mass at the incomparable Notre Dame , the first cathedral built with flying buttresses. The mass was celebrated in French, we were surrounded by people from all over the globe. We did not meet one French citizen on that Sunday morning. To sit and take in the glorious stained glass window and to hear the incredible organ play familiar hymns was a very moving experience for my husband and I. Since our visit, they have installed nine bronze bells to celebrate the cathedral's 850th birthday which I am told are very impressive when they ring. Leave yourself plenty of time to explore the cathedral and its grounds, it is well worth it.<br />
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Not too far from Notre Dame is Sainte Chappelle which is a small chapel that managed to survive the Revolution. Try to visit in the afternoon to fully enjoy the stunning floor to ceiling stained glass windows as the sun shines through them. Though a bit off the beaten track and not one of the top attractions, this was one of my favorites. The windows defy description and you should make every effort to see them for yourself. <br />
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Like London, there is so much to do and see in the French city, that I will have to blog about it again in the future but I hope this gives you just a taste of what Paris has to offer. So until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrp3HiSuys0gCKjXxRNOBCgitsye8i_vNFSAmuW19QA6yoZK-WX9QtL_ZDv8qxYuCD1nlFcshJm9-SD2CZM-B_dmq1kGjJDuOrDmKmJQYJ1LgyJ_eqGiJAtLLIB-4a0PDAK8Vh7Tp22E/s1600/scan0070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrp3HiSuys0gCKjXxRNOBCgitsye8i_vNFSAmuW19QA6yoZK-WX9QtL_ZDv8qxYuCD1nlFcshJm9-SD2CZM-B_dmq1kGjJDuOrDmKmJQYJ1LgyJ_eqGiJAtLLIB-4a0PDAK8Vh7Tp22E/s320/scan0070.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notre Dame</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Windows of Sainte Chappelle</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdXnVE7go3CT2P1P2ij6e4QWFNU_NnX-8s5JuHt1fQRlnypFS9kovrWSHKuXsSA-EO-vPKVv3PgrmEIkREXZNjVXzPGulrkSwjMXSpGlrKgT7a28rYg1vkU5GcJ0QC3ylui2c6QkFCz4/s1600/scan0073.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjdXnVE7go3CT2P1P2ij6e4QWFNU_NnX-8s5JuHt1fQRlnypFS9kovrWSHKuXsSA-EO-vPKVv3PgrmEIkREXZNjVXzPGulrkSwjMXSpGlrKgT7a28rYg1vkU5GcJ0QC3ylui2c6QkFCz4/s320/scan0073.jpg" width="219" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another shot of the windows</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2UGbkZdEZDiMR94eB869_YLkrrpWPV6BLiRztp3PdaRsWSASoBLnWn8k9kP_mpRxiKPIsMkpcU7qQ0Gm8TVtECa4jyu2C0vYqPL-ghUA_EnZerpTPkvP4_ayvllIuDDRxZcMXcbmkOU/s1600/scan0074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2UGbkZdEZDiMR94eB869_YLkrrpWPV6BLiRztp3PdaRsWSASoBLnWn8k9kP_mpRxiKPIsMkpcU7qQ0Gm8TVtECa4jyu2C0vYqPL-ghUA_EnZerpTPkvP4_ayvllIuDDRxZcMXcbmkOU/s320/scan0074.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Louvre</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6khnzdY7vWR2B8O0dTKBRydEObrQ3iPGhF0EJdHWmlkFEpGaKPnlP-9JGcRG6wm-BwBj9q2cQWxDppwarNBQR9T2MukHVtVX2vllPe9mCTbTFVQ14CrT5yAuphkGLOJW-MvYTHyTmZGE/s1600/scan0075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6khnzdY7vWR2B8O0dTKBRydEObrQ3iPGhF0EJdHWmlkFEpGaKPnlP-9JGcRG6wm-BwBj9q2cQWxDppwarNBQR9T2MukHVtVX2vllPe9mCTbTFVQ14CrT5yAuphkGLOJW-MvYTHyTmZGE/s320/scan0075.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another shot of the Louvre</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ozjxkkRsKzyHRmx0nlSQMyy2WGla-stflCEQNFZ61Jvfma9XiCRGvQf5WXghMeybqxTMegaHhLzph6TdyM7Hf6ZZMGwg4tpCwonfnrLyiq5FyIPs2J6B-IE3-xgjIX7H_Y4-1KJQQ2c/s1600/scan0236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ozjxkkRsKzyHRmx0nlSQMyy2WGla-stflCEQNFZ61Jvfma9XiCRGvQf5WXghMeybqxTMegaHhLzph6TdyM7Hf6ZZMGwg4tpCwonfnrLyiq5FyIPs2J6B-IE3-xgjIX7H_Y4-1KJQQ2c/s320/scan0236.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Eiffel Tower from the top of the Arc de Triomphe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCVY-UkyyJycHachMwhVe3jGVuSlxeis0jKYGQA-JA7rlt-Cui9QxcaBx2QVbPZO14XGxsr_ZE0pEckI3AGLZq_8I1MprGTlfbS_CsolBFFUFvAG2PfuINCuY3L0CLAjS_OoqUdXeqInI/s1600/scan0076.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCVY-UkyyJycHachMwhVe3jGVuSlxeis0jKYGQA-JA7rlt-Cui9QxcaBx2QVbPZO14XGxsr_ZE0pEckI3AGLZq_8I1MprGTlfbS_CsolBFFUFvAG2PfuINCuY3L0CLAjS_OoqUdXeqInI/s320/scan0076.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Venus de Milo</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-65455990068702178372015-08-28T08:53:00.000-07:002015-08-28T08:53:08.298-07:00LondonI will never forget the first time I saw London. I had dreamed of seeing this old city when I was a little girl watching Peter Pan, as a teenager seeing My Fair Lady and as a young adult reading so many novels about the British Royals from Henry the VIII to the current house of Windsor. Your flight will probably land in Heathrow, one of the largest international airports in the world and the airport itself is an adventure. People from virtually, every corner of the globe, rush to claim their bags, speaking languages that I had never heard before. <br />
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From there, we took a double decker bus to transfer to our hotel. The accommodations in this great city are as varied as the nationalities encountered at the airport. Most rooms come with a full English breakfast every day. The Brits early morning meal differs from ours, only slightly, offering tomatoes, mushrooms and baked beans, but include also, eggs, sausage, bacon and toast with butter. Of course, tea is their beverage of choice and I avoid the coffee in England, it is not the best. This generous meal is a great way to start a day of nonstop sightseeing.<br />
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There is so much to see and do in London that I can only touch on the most popular sights today. On our first trip we jumped on a Hop On Hop Off double decker bus to just get the lay of the land and it worked really well for us. Our first view of the majestic Parliament Buildings on the Thames, took my breath away. I had seen the pictures a million times but to see them in person is so different. I sat on a bench for a few moments so I could be right below Big Ben as it rang Westminster chimes on the hour. Yet another, "goosebump" moment for me<br />
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Among my first stops was St. Paul's Cathedral which has the second largest dome in the world (the largest is St. Peter's in Rome) and is an iconic feature of the London Skyline. Climb to the top of the dome and experience the Whispering Gallery where you can speak lowly and your companion can hear you, clearly, on the other side of the dome. Another "must see", is Westminster Abbey, the site of so many royal coronations. It also contains the crypts of many of them. My favorite place in Westminster Abbey is Poets' Corner where the likes of Chaucer, Lord Byron, Dickens, Kipling and more recently, Laurence Olivier, among many others. Though arguably the greatest of them all, Shakespeare is not buried here but is honored by a memorial. <br />
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From there, we moved on to the Tower of London. We did the Crown Jewels tour and a tour given by one of the Tower's famous Beefeaters. It was well worth doing. If you are going and have planned your trip more that six weeks prior, you can arrange to do the Ceremony of the Keys, where you accompany them on the evening rounds as they lock up the allegedly, haunted Tower. Though I have yet to do this myself, I am told that the Beefeaters consider it part of the job to scare tourists to death on this tour. It is something I will do on my next visit. It is a very eerie place when you can stand in the spot where Anne Boylen lost her head on the orders of Henry VIII. Built in 1066, the Tower has a very long and sordid history that is well worth exploring. <br />
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Of course, no trip to London is complete without a visit to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard. The Guard has performed this ritual since 1660. It takes about 45 minutes and is done daily from April until the end of July at 11:30am. Any other time of year, check the schedule before your visit so that you sure to see it. <br />
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I also highly recommend a stop for high tea at Fortnum and Mason's or Kensington Palace. This is a nice British tradition and it is still done today as it was a hundred years ago. The tea sandwiches are very good and the sweets will satisfy any sweet tooth. On the day that we schedule high tea, we always plan on a very light dinner because it is all that is necessary after this late afternoon snack.<br />
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Lastly, do not, I repeat, do not, miss London Theater on your visit. I try to see at least one or two shows on every visit. Tickets for the most in demand shows should be purchased prior to your trip but if you aren't picky about what you see, tickets are readily available through your hotel concierge or at the theaters themselves. <br />
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We love London and always eat in the Pubs. We have met so many delightful people, both locals and other tourists. (Believe it or not, I once met a woman in a London Pub who knew two of my daughters.) Pub fare is usually very good and reasonably priced and with the strength of the British pound, reasonable is a good thing. Again, there is an unlimited variety of dining options for you to chose from budget to gourmet, or grab a delicious meat pie from one of the many shops, to eat as you explore.<br />
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Well, that's it for today, I will blog on London again, sometime in the future because I have just touched on the many things to do and see. <br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Westminster Abbey</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tower Bridge</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Paul's Cathedral</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tower of London</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beefeater at the Tower of London</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Ben</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-24894833770618373012015-08-20T11:12:00.003-07:002015-08-31T11:10:03.037-07:00New OrleansNeed a quick four day getaway, then try one of our favorites, the beautiful city of New Orleans. We always, stay in the French Quarter so we can walk to just about everthing. .<br />
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We love those walks past the many unique specialty shops and the antiques dealers. Every corner provides some kind of street entertainer that perform to the delight of the tourists and music resonates through the whole area. Be sure to stop by the French Market for souvenirs. It is full of many vendors with everything you can think of, offered at a good price. After a leisurely stroll down the Mississippi River, a "must do" tourist stop is Cafe du Monde to snack on beignets, that are covered in powdered sugar complemented by the chicory flavored coffee that is served with them. As you guiltily savor this New Orleans delight you are serenaded by the ever-present music.<br />
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After this savory snack, you can take a tour of the Garden District that is full of gracious and stunning southern homes and enormous Pin Oak trees. Or take a horse and buggy tour that stops at the oldest bar in New Orleans where you can order a drink delivered right to your carriage. This is a wonderful way to learn the history of this lovely southern city. Other tour options include a Swamp tour through the Louisiana Bayou which is like entering another world that is full of alligators. It was well worth seeing. Or you can opt for a Cemetery Tour. New Orleans cemeteries are very unique because people cannot be buried underground as the city sits below sea level, so centuries ago, they designed a cemetery system that is really interesting and unique. One of the highlights of these tours is a visit to the tomb of the Queen of Voodoo. Voodoo has had a presence in the city for centuries and for those who are interested there are many museums and tours available to further explore the darker side. A visit to the Mardi Gras Museum is educational and a nice way to spend some time. <br />
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The best time of day in New Orleans, is meal time. The dining options are endless and the local dishes have to be tried. A Po'Boy sandwich (NOLA's answer to a hoagie) for lunch usually consist of meat of some kind or seafood. Of course the choices for dinner on at least one evening should be jambalaya or gumbo and the more daring among you, should try alligator. I have tried all three while visiting and really enjoyed it. One dinner should be reserved for a trip to Emeril's or NOLA, Emeril Lagasse's restaurants in his hometown. It is well worth doing and I enjoyed every savory bite of it. <br />
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In the evenings, a stroll down Bourbon Street, while sipping a frozen margarita (or just about any drink of your choice) will provide you with some entertainment but when you want to settle in somewhere, the options are endless. We have spent many an hour at a piano bar singing along to show tunes. Or on other occasions, we have stopped into a local Irish pub. And of course, there are many local jazz clubs where you can enjoy the music that put New Orleans on the map.<br />
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I am always so sad to leave this lovely place but I always leave with great memories<br />
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Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the French Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVJi5uV2QQWiUoxVHipmLoVrMtvjn41MRlaudBv3BtuSbyO2yqwYZ6ut_GflMSUx7GLODegPmatR1t74faAcLGUyMDhq1HGSrp6ssGAdGtcZdAyiZ5Rggomn_dgm2NPnQdqPdRkRcVq8/s1600/scan0142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibVJi5uV2QQWiUoxVHipmLoVrMtvjn41MRlaudBv3BtuSbyO2yqwYZ6ut_GflMSUx7GLODegPmatR1t74faAcLGUyMDhq1HGSrp6ssGAdGtcZdAyiZ5Rggomn_dgm2NPnQdqPdRkRcVq8/s320/scan0142.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jackson Square</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horse and Buggy tour</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-75219561010588796812015-08-13T13:44:00.000-07:002015-08-13T13:44:12.155-07:00WyomingOne of our most memorable family vacations, and one that I highly recommend, was to the beautiful state of Wyoming. We began out trip in Cody, Wyoming, a small town with a very western flavor. There were accommodations to suit every pocketbook and family restaurants in abundance. During the summer, Cody hosts a rodeo every night. Tickets are very reasonable and readily available. My children, without exception, relished this very new experience. During the day, I would recommend a trip to the Buffalo Bill Museum for those of you interested in the Old West. Cody sits at the northeastern entrance to Yellowstone National Park, so I would recommend that your book accommodations early.<br />
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From Cody, we drove to Yellowstone along an incredibly scenic stretch of highway. Our older children were full of questions and observations and the younger kids seemed awestruck. Of course, Old Faithful was a high point but do not miss Cascade Canyon. The sheer depth of the canyon is incredible and it is sight that you won't soon forget. The thing the kids enjoyed most was the abundant wildlife. Buffalo stretching out for miles on all sides gave you some idea of what the pioneers experienced. Pelicans, elk, moose, deer and even a couple of coyote grazed by the roadside in close proximity to the cars and we were just enthralled. I recommend that you allow at least two full days in Yellowstone just to see the most popular things but you could easily spend a week exploring this fascinating place.<br />
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We left the park reluctantly and headed for Jackson Hole. The Grand Tetons rise from the flats in a manner that takes you by surprise. Jackson Hole is a tourist town that offers a tremendous amount of family oriented activities. Take a horseback ride up the mountain and have a real chuck wagon dinner, under the stars. Or, take a boat ride across Jenny Lake and hike up the mountain. At Jenny Lake, don't miss the Chapel of the Transfiguration. This simple little log chapel was designed so a large picture window behind the altar, frames the Grand Tetons. My kids were absolutely silent as they sat in this little church that was so moving in its simplicity. For the more adventurous, white water rafting is available at whatever skill level you desire. Until you have had this experience, you can't begin to know how much fun it is. As we floated in calmer waters, we observed dozens of bald eagles along the river's edge. Jackson Hole offers plenty of shopping for the teenagers and a daily shootout and stagecoach rides for the little ones. A great family destination with plenty of hotels and condos available. <br />
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Check out Wyoming, it is well worth the trip. Until next time, safe travels!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chapel of the Transfiguration</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Faithful</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-613762384505088439.post-19454140212099062015-08-13T06:59:00.001-07:002015-08-13T13:34:22.248-07:00The Beginning<span style="background-color: white;">My cousin asked me recently if there was anything that I would do differently, given the opportunity. I told him that I had missed my calling and if I had it to do all over again, I would become a travel writer. He looked over his glasses and said, "Well, just what is stopping you?" I didn't have an answer. His wise words stayed with me and evolved into this blog. The only thing that I love as much as travelling is sharing my experiences and adventures with others. It is my hope that my readers will find my tales interesting and informative. Would love to hear your feedback. In the meantime, compose a bucket list and don't waste one second making it happen. There is a great big, beautiful world out there, full of wonderful people with so much to share. Embrace the opportunities. Until next time, safe travels!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10833541562806237284noreply@blogger.com0