florida's family beaches

Florida’s Great Family Friendly Beaches

Looking for the perfect beach location for your family’s next vacation? With over 1,350 miles of coastline, Florida is certain to have something for everyone. From the Gulf of Mexico to the shores of the Atlantic, here are a dozen of Florida’s great family friendly beaches. Fort De Soto Park … Read more

Vieques, Puerto Rico

It was a hot, humid February 13th in Fajardo, a port town on Puerto Rico’s eastern shore, the day I boarded the 1:00 PM ferry to Vieques Island with my friend Gillian. The last time I’d been on the open sea was during a family vacation to Mexico when my … Read more

Somerset

The Somerset, Turks & Caicos

  Admittedly I’m a novice when it comes to over the top luxury in the Caribbean, so it’s fair to say that I could be easily impressed, but when The Somerset’s jovial bellman (a Reggaeton singer on the side) dropped me at reception, I was just about speechless.  And I … Read more

Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii

First things first. I love Maui. I’ve been visiting my favorite Hawaiian island for years. In fact, I’ll continue to return every year or two for as long as I’m able. Curiously, this annoys some people. “Aren’t there more interesting places to travel in the world?” they ask with a … Read more

Tahiti Solo

Exploring Tahiti Solo

The TSA agent looks at my passport and back at me with a skeptical look. “You’re traveling to Tahiti by yourself?”  I nod, indicating yes.  While French Polynesia is often synonymous with “honeymoon” and “romantic getaway,” I want to see what it has to offer the solo traveler. I figure … Read more

Cobblers Cove, Barbados

I’d been to Barbados before, and counted it as one of my favorite Caribbean islands.  Now having recently been there again, I have to say that it’s not just one of my favorites; it’s my absolute favorite.  Credit of course has to go to the island itself—its warmth, its beauty, … Read more

Best Beaches to Find a Celeb

It’s true that when the weather’s steamy, many celebrities choose to retreat to the private pools of their multi-million dollar estates. Others, however, seek fun in the sun on the sandy shore of a picture-perfect beach. Some, like Gwen Stefani and Gavin Rossdale, build sand castles with their kids. Athletic … Read more

Casa Morada, Islamorada Key

Anticipation builds as I exit Miami’s frantic turnpike and begin my journey on U.S. 1 to the Florida Keys.  Soon the gawking billboards disappear and I find myself on a simple two-lane road with turquoise water on both sides.  I’m finding my way to Casa Morada, an all-suite boutique hotel … Read more

Miami’s Most Famous Beach

Miami’s Most Famous Beach

  Famous for its pristine beaches and glamorous nightlife, Miami’s star hasn’t lost any lustre; in fact it’s brighter than ever. Once equated with crime and retirement, the city has staked its claim as a venerable tourist mecca anytime of the year even when the sizzling dog days of summer … Read more

Cruising to Bermuda

It was our 45th wedding anniversary and the maitre’d in the Norwegian Star’s opulent Versailles dining room was pouring us champagne. This was the most romantic of settings for our special event.  I felt like I was in a dream … and the dream had come true. After toasting a … Read more

Around the Caribbean in 101 Flavors

Flying Fish in lemon butter sauce with fungi sweet potato and plantains. Chopped conch with herbs and spices served with coconut Run Down sauce. Goat stewed with a blend of cilantro, garlic, onions, red pepper, leeks, scallions and rosemary in a red wine sauce. These mouth-watering menu descriptions alone are … Read more

Santorini – A Modern History

It’s been said that the island of Santorini was created by a famous earthquake about 1500 BC and that it may be a remnant of the legendary lost continent of Atlantis.  While this is true, there is another side to the mysterious island.  Writers throughout history have already dedicated countless … Read more