As our small plane approaches the Kogatende airstrip in Tanzania’s Northern Serengeti, we’re on the edge of our seats. We just flew over the majestic and active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano—the only volcano in the world that spews black lava. And we know we’re about to see more wonders … Read more
Meatless Monday. Tofu Tuesday. For carnivores looking to decrease their meat intake, themed days like this might do the trick. But for vegans and vegetarians, seitan, faro, jack fruit and other healthy dishes are daily culinary staples which can sometimes be hard to find while traveling. But take heart … Read more
“We’re a little bit out of the way,” our genial host cites as we enter Bourne & Hollingsworth Buildings. Spoiler Alert: Not at all! The Clerkenwell restaurant, set in a 19th-century building, is a quick 10-minute taxi from our hotel even though the driver fretted that he didn’t recognize the … Read more
If you were to try to guess where the geographic center of Europe is, you’d probably be wrong. The outer reaches include a remote area of Norway to the north, the Canary Islands to the south, the crests of Russia’s Ural Mountains to the east, and the Azores to the … Read more
Last year was a challenging year for the Caribbean, as Category 5 Hurricanes Irma and Maria pummeled many of the primarily eastern islands in one month, causing extensive damage and devastating loss of life and property. Tourism is the life-blood of the Caribbean islands, with revenue generated from cruise ship … Read more
The Doomstone. That’s its name, and it’s the best relic I’ve ever seen. Aside from sounding like something Indiana Jones might off a few Nazis for, it depicts a typical day in Hell: fiends, demons and a cauldron full of the damned — Bon Appetit! A picture is worth 1000 … Read more
“Are you boys going to watch some football today?”, our hostess coyly asks as she seats us. We’re still a little groggy from the short flight to Manchester from Philadelphia and coffee more than football is what’s on our minds. In the ensuing days in this compact metropolis, however, we’ll … Read more
The official expression might be, “When Pigs Fly,” but in Exuma, Bahamas, it’s actually, “When Pigs Swim!” A bucket list item of mine was always to swim with the pigs … which to some might not sound like the adventure of a lifetime, but once I heard about indigenous swimming … Read more
Museums, Restaurants, Nightlife & Art Fairs Chicago is a city you can visit all year with cultural events, exhibitions and art fairs to suit every taste. The city LITERALLY lights up during the holidays. Christmas Tree 2017 marks the 104th year of Chicago’s official tree and the third year it’s … Read more
By Thom Meintel With twenty-four countries having legalized same sex marriage to date, it’s safe to say that gay friendly honeymoon destinations are on the map. Let’s face it. The holidays are the perfect time to get hitched and gallop off into the sunset together. And there’s never been a … Read more
Everyone knows Phoenix boasts indulgent spas, fabulous resorts and great golf. The arid desert climate offers a year-round escape and more than its fair share of cloudless, blue-sky days. And for those of us who prefer an active vacation, one that balances poolside lounging and ferreting out the city’s best … Read more
Like wine in Italy, tequila in México, and vodka in Russia, beer is an integral part of the culture and heritage in many European cities. Behind every amazing stout, pilsner, doppelbock, lager, and pale ale, you’ll find historically rich undertones of flavorful ingredients, brewing processes, and traditions. So, saddle up … Read more
Traveling across a broad swath of America to view the works of Frank Lloyd Wright, we stayed true to the artistic theme by staying at three unique Hilton hotels, each in their own way complementing the themes underlining Wright’s work—an art-world beacon in Indianapolis, the eponymous hotel of a historical … Read more
Tis the season for twinkling lights, choirs caroling, warm mulled wine, decadent sweets and plenty of holiday cheer. And there’s no better way to experience the sights, sounds and tastes of the season than with a visit to a Christmas market. While Germany is renowned for its markets and totally … Read more
KANSAS TO ARIZONA and BACK HOME Taliesin West Scottsdale, AZ 1938 After a 3-month break, I (sadly) ended my road trip solo with a visit to Taliesin West in Arizona, where Wright died at the age of 91. For relief from the desert heat, I took the road … Read more