Travel

How Breckenridge Turned a Sled Problem into Precious Plastic

Breckenridge, Colorado, best known for its world-famous ski resort, had a plastics problem. Every year visitors flock to this charming historic mining town to enjoy schussing and sledding down the slopes. What do they leave behind? Sleds. Tons of them. Cheap red, blue, green, and orange plastic sleds started to pile up in a shed… Continue reading How Breckenridge Turned a Sled Problem into Precious Plastic

Travel

Can an Airline Amenity Kit Really Change Lives?

Who doesn’t love to be spoiled by airline amenity kits? It’s a perk of upper-class travel to receive those little goodie bags filled with silk eye masks, rich hand lotion, lip balm, and maybe even a pair of pajamas. Sometimes the kits themselves are keepsakes, with brand name designers crafting handsome purses and pouches that can… Continue reading Can an Airline Amenity Kit Really Change Lives?

Travel

Natural Attractions: Central Florida’s Nature Spaces Draw in Visitors

Some of Orlando’s oldest attractions have nothing to do with roller coasters or 3-D rides. Tranquil lakes, forests, and ponds filled with water lilies are home to hundreds of species of birds, reptiles and mammals that called the area home long before tourists arrived. Head to some of these natural attractions to experience the thrill… Continue reading Natural Attractions: Central Florida’s Nature Spaces Draw in Visitors

Travel

Heights House Raleigh: Historic Southern Charm

I was drawn to Raleigh by its history and Southern charm. As one of the nation’s oldest capitals, this North Carolina city boasts stately Victorian homes, parks with shady oaks and iconic barbecue restaurants. I came to soak up the glamour of the past, so what better way than by staying at a historic boutique hotel? Heights House sits… Continue reading Heights House Raleigh: Historic Southern Charm

Family, Travel

6 Lesser-Known Hikes in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

I felt the loss when my oldest son left for college last August. I knew I would need something to look forward to. I’ve always found solace in nature, so I invited three friends to join me for a week of hiking in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. We hit the well-known places in Grand Teton National… Continue reading 6 Lesser-Known Hikes in Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Food, Travel

Ultimate Guide to 2 Days in Montreal

Montreal should top your list if you’re looking for the charm of Europe without the travel hassles of flying across the pond. This French-speaking Canadian city is in the eastern province of Quebec, about 300 miles north of Boston. Hop on a plane or train, and you’ll be sipping coffee in a sidewalk café in… Continue reading Ultimate Guide to 2 Days in Montreal

Food, Travel

SAVORY EXPLORES: WHERE TO PLAY, EAT, AND SLEEP IN BOSTON

Boston, a historic city on the Charles River, is a delightful mix of old and new. You can follow Paul Revere’s footsteps into the Old North Church and then shop for the latest fashions at Copley Place. Grab a cup of classic clam chowder, a Boston favorite for hundreds of years, or dine at a trendy pop-up restaurant. Boston… Continue reading SAVORY EXPLORES: WHERE TO PLAY, EAT, AND SLEEP IN BOSTON

Food, Travel

DISCOVERING HISTORIC SANFORD, FLORIDA

Located halfway between Orlando’s theme parks and the beaches of Daytona, historic Sanford is one of Central Florida’s lesser-known gems. It makes a perfect day trip if you’re in the area, but also offers a great weekend getaway. This charming town on Lake Monroe is filled with restaurants, antique shops, craft breweries, and nature spots.… Continue reading DISCOVERING HISTORIC SANFORD, FLORIDA

Food, Travel

How Your Next Central Florida Burger or Latte Can Change the World

If you’re heading to the Orlando area, I’m sure you’ve given a lot of thought to your itinerary. You’ve probably booked a hotel, made theme park reservations, and maybe even though about which restaurants to visits. But did you know there are coffee shops and bistros in Central Florida where your visit could literally save lives? By… Continue reading How Your Next Central Florida Burger or Latte Can Change the World

Food, Travel

Six Places in Reykjavik for Licorice: Love it or Hate It

When it comes to licorice, there’s no middle ground. There are believers, like me, who salivate at the mere thought of the strong, dark confection. And then there are haters who can’t understand why anyone would eat something that looks like tar and makes their eyes water. Iceland is full of believers. Years of restrictions… Continue reading Six Places in Reykjavik for Licorice: Love it or Hate It

Food, Travel

Welcome to Eatonville, the Town that Freedom Built

I’ve driven by the exit off Interstate 4 just north of Orlando, Florida, dozens of times, and always wondered about Eatonville. You can see the sign from the freeway that reads “Oldest Incorporated African American Municipality in America.” Recently, I decided to take the exit and finally explore this city of deep significance to our country.… Continue reading Welcome to Eatonville, the Town that Freedom Built

Travel

Beyond the Beach: Land-lubber’s Guide to Nassau, Bahamas

Why would I come to the tropical beach paradise of the Bahamas if I prefer dry land? Yes, I love to stroll on the beach, collect shells and take a quick dip in the ocean, but then I’m ready for my next adventure. My husband and sons, on the other hand, love scuba diving. On our… Continue reading Beyond the Beach: Land-lubber’s Guide to Nassau, Bahamas

Food, Travel

Pick Up Sticks: Who Says You’re Too Old to Play With Your Food?

From meaty, cumin-scented lamb skewers to sweet, candied hawthorns, Beijing is filled with food on a stick. These fork-free dishes are perfect for strolling, sharing, dipping, or indulging. If you’ve ever cooked over a campfire or savored a popsicle, then you’ll know that hand-held food is fun for all ages.  For those of us staying… Continue reading Pick Up Sticks: Who Says You’re Too Old to Play With Your Food?