If Italy did not exist, surely we would have to conjure her. It’s a land of rustic wines, hearty food, undulating hills, art-filled churches and medieval walled towns populated by some of the most vivacious people on Earth. It’s also a place offering an infinite variety of experiences, destinations waiting … Read more
Nestled on a tiny piazza amid the blessed chaos that is Naples, Italy is a rare find … the Palazzo Decumani. The 4 star albergo takes its name from its heritage – a former palatial residence almost hidden within the narrow streets and alleys of the Decumani neighborhood, a beehive … Read more
Instead of being greeted with threatening “DO NOT TOUCH” signs displayed so prominently in the majority of art museums around the world, as soon as you enter the Erarta Museum of Contemporary Art in St. Petersburg you’re likely to be invited to try out an interactive exhibit by one of … Read more
After sailing Maine’s sparkling seas, kayaking and canoeing its pristine lakes, hiking its lofty mountains or schussing down its snow-covered slopes, what could be better than an icy-cold beer—especially a hand-crafted ale or lager from a local microbrewery or brewpub? Maine now ranks fifth in the nation for the number … Read more
Let me say this straight out. It’s hard to go too long without Italian food. Blame it on my mom’s spaghetti and meatballs or the home made lasagna an Italian friend of mine used to make regularly. So it was with a sense of expectancy that we approached Capuletti, situated … Read more
If you know the difference between Thranduil and Thorondor (hint: one’s a fierce elf and the other a huge bird), then you’ve probably spent a good amount of time with your nose stuck in the Lord of the Rings books wishing you could visit Middle Earth yourself. Well, now you … Read more
Who couldn’t love getting lost in Rome? Wandering down vine strewn cobblestoned streets with hanging laundry and locals chattering away in fast Italian is one of my favorite memories. But, the charm of getting lost can quickly turn to frustration when you’re trying to find the Trevi Fountain but didn’t … Read more
Heck yes, shopping in Zurich is expensive. Apparently when it comes to the cost of living, Switzerland is not neutral. They are pro-luxury and pro-chic! My fave finds in Zurich ranged from every day needs to seriously sweet and fun souvenirs. Downtown Zurich Navy Boot was founded in 1991 as … Read more
Like pilgrims flocking to the Holy Land, Smiths fans travel for days to be here. No distance is too great for true devotees, who cross oceans and time zones to reach this temple of popular culture. I’m at the Salford Lads Club in Greater Manchester, a Victorian youth centre immortalized … Read more
Would you prefer a view of the Denver skyline or of the Rocky Mountains? That this is one of the first questions you’re asked as you check-in to the Four Seasons Denver is a good sign. This, along with the genuine cheerfulness of the reception staff, should clue you in … Read more
Standing on a downtown Nashville street corner waiting for the “walk” signal, my toes began to tap. I heard music. It wasn’t coming from a restaurant, bar or nightclub, of which there are many—it was playing from the metal box controlling the traffic light. Music is everywhere in this city. … Read more