Destination Texas: Galveston, Texas.   Dickens on the Strand and more

Destination Texas: Galveston, Texas. Dickens on the Strand and more

Along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston, Texas, is a coastal destination that is an easy weekend getaway for North Texans that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and fabulous events for the whole family.  Experience A Holiday Tradition Dickens on the...

Luxury Redefined: Hotel Verte, Ultimate 5-Star Getaway in Warsaw

Luxury Redefined: Hotel Verte, Ultimate 5-Star Getaway in Warsaw

When I arrived at Hotel Verte in Warsaw, I was immediately struck by its resemblance to a palace. Little did I know that this resemblance was no coincidence. The hotel is a stunning restoration of two 18th-century palaces, the Branicki and Szaniawski Palaces, once the...

Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel—A Luxury Hotel In Rome

Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel—A Luxury Hotel In Rome

Walking up the red-carpeted stairs into the Anantara Naiadi Rome Hotel, I entered a world of luxury and grandeur.  I couldn't help gazing with wonder around the lobby adorned with exquisite artwork, setting the tone for the elegance that awaited.  Read more...

Lérins Islands, Near Cannes, Peace After the Bustle

Lérins Islands, Near Cannes, Peace After the Bustle

While rolling through Provence on a slow travel train from Bordeaux to Cannes, I was greeted by vistas of lavender fields and olive groves. From my window, the vibrant hues of purple and green painted a picturesque scene. My anticipation grew as we approached...

Fresh Tomato Pasta Bowl – Celebrating the Abundance of the Season

Fresh Tomato Pasta Bowl – Celebrating the Abundance of the Season

When the Texas heat is in full swing, that’s when our gardens and farmers’ markets are chock-full of flavorful produce choices. As soon as the first good tomatoes appear, I snatch them up. I buy fresh basil and a good-sized chunk of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and whip...

Home Sweet Austin: Our New Hometown

Home Sweet Austin: Our New Hometown

Moving from our home of 34 years in Dallas to Austin, Texas, took a lot of work. After the arrival of our first granddaughter, our hearts yearned to be closer, to be actively involved in her life in a way that a three-hour drive couldn't provide. So we moved to...

Sarlat: A Medieval Town You’ll Never Forget

Sarlat: A Medieval Town You’ll Never Forget

A fairytale come to life—that was my first impression of Sarlat.  On a train journey that started in Paris, I had already spent time in many lovely French villages.  I even stayed in a wine chateau in St. Emilion.  But Sarlat was something else entirely. Read...

Attending Austin Bat Fest

Attending Austin Bat Fest

Austin, TX is home to North America’s largest urban bat colony with an estimated population of over 1.5 million Mexican Free-Tailed bats. Their nightly emergence from beneath the Congress Avenue Bridge makes for a captivating natural phenomenon which enthralls...

Planning A Trip to South Dakota

Planning A Trip to South Dakota

South Dakota’s combination of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and Native American culture makes it a must-travel destination for those seeking to explore the heart of America. The state’s landscapes range from rolling prairies to the majestic Black Hills and are a...

Grieving for Lahaina Along with the World

Grieving for Lahaina Along with the World

I first learned about the August 2023 wildfires that ravaged Lahaina on the evening news; it hit me like a punch to the gut. Seeing the complete devastation of a place I’ve known and loved was heartbreaking. It was like watching a horror movie on repeat, visuals of...

Exploring Southwest Austin and its Charming Hill Country Neighbors

Exploring Southwest Austin and its Charming Hill Country Neighbors

Southwest Austin is a hidden gem offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation with a laid-back lifestyle. I recently moved from big-city life in Dallas to the rural countryside of Southwest Austin. I chose this area for the peaceful natural...