Famous Thuringia Bratwurst

Celebrating Thuringia’s Festivals

Germany brings to mind many things including beer, bratwurst and a rich cultural history.  One of the great things about Germany – besides the beer and bratwurst – is the country’s preservation of customs and traditions which includes its “Volksfeste” (peoples’ festivals).  Located in the center of Germany, the federal … Read more

Restaurant Dwars, Amsterdam

Snuggled in between well-known beer producers, Belgium and Germany, The Netherlands isn’t acknowledged often enough for its contributions to the beer scene. Of course Amsterdam based Heineken is well known and wildly popular, but there are a number of craft breweries worthy of a taste.   And in Amsterdam’s Jordaan neighborhood, … Read more

Germany, German Traditions

Exploring German Traditions

Standing in Germany’s Black Forest surrounded by dense canopies of dark towering evergreens, I fully expected to see Little Red Riding Hood skipping along to Grandma’s house with the big bad wolf undoubtedly lurking somewhere behind a tree. This geographically blessed region in southwest Germany’s state of Baden-Württemberg was the … Read more

New Orleans for the Holidays

Part French, part Southern and 100 percent enchanting, New Orleans is unlike any other city in the country.  In this famed place where Creole tradition abounds, legendary music, superb cuisine and of course, extra special cocktails combine to create a celebratory atmosphere for the holidays.  Every year during this time, … Read more

Getting to Know Hagerstown

Located in Western Maryland where Interstates 81 and 70 intersect, Hagerstown was once a pit stop on my road trips through the area. But when I was gassing up the car and grabbing food to go I had no clue what this charming little city had to offer. Situated against … Read more

Adventures in Peru

Few countries offer as much diversity as Peru.  From the Andean mountains to the Amazon to the islands of the mountain lakes, there are endless opportunities for adventure beyond the well-known trek to Machu Picchu.  I set out to explore this fascinating country with my girlfriends, all of us jungle … Read more

Girl with a Pearl Earring Returns Home

Home to the international Peace Palace, 118 embassies and King Willem-Alexander, The Hague is one of the Netherlands most extraordinary cities. This “Royal City by the Sea” is also home to a girl whose face you may recognize – Johannes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring. The Girl recently returned … Read more

Key West: Historic, Entertaining and Quirky

Key West is unlike any place you’ve ever been. Sunsets are celebrated, roosters roam the streets, conch fritters are a recognized food group, drinking is an Olympic sport and everyone – and I do mean everyone – has a story. As one Key West resident told me, “This is where … Read more

Moravia, Czech Republic’s Wine Country

Nestled between Austria, Poland and Slovakia, the ancient kingdom of Moravia is relatively unknown and often upstaged by neighboring Bohemia and its capital city of Prague. Moravia is a treasure and arguably one of the best preserved and most historic regions of the Czech Republic. In Southern Moravia the treasures … Read more

Pennsylvania’s Land of Wine and Beer

Pennsylvania is known for rolling hills, picturesque farms, brilliant fall foliage and even a town built by chocolate.  But did you know that USA Today ranked Pennsylvania number six out of the top ten states for drinking locally crafted beer?  And it’s not all about beer.  According to the U. … Read more

Florida’s Intriguing Historic Sites

With its gorgeous beaches, thrilling theme parks and fascinating wildlife, it’s no surprise Florida is a favorite destination for families.  From the nation’s oldest settlement, to sponge docks, trains, planes and Indian mounds, Florida also has an intriguing history.  Here are a few great historical sites to entertain the family. … Read more

Florida’s Incredible Array of Theme Parks

OK, so you’re headed to Florida and Disney World tops the “must do” list.  We’re not surprised.  Disney is spectacular, but Florida has so many amazing family attractions you may want to consider expanding your itinerary.  Here’s a rundown of some of Florida’s best theme parks. Busch Gardens African wildlife, … Read more

Getting to Know Florida’s Wildlife

Before Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy arrived, Florida’s cast of characters included manatees, alligators, reptiles, herons, egrets and the elusive Florida panther. They’re all still around, along with many other interesting species. Here are seven great places to introduce your family to Florida’s original characters … the wildlife. Blue Springs … Read more

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

Dresden

Dresden: Germany’s Cultural Treasure

Once upon a time, Dresden, Germany was a cultural mecca … then along came World War II.  Dresden seemed to have a bull’s eye on its back and suffered greatly toward the end of the war with horrific bombings.  Next the Iron Curtain fell and the once highly touted cultural … Read more