To truly understand the country of Estonia, you need to know its history. After being occupied for more than 50 years – first by the Soviet Union, then the Nazis, then the Soviets again – Estonians began the quest for independence. They had no army so they used what they … Read more
If you want to get into a heated debate with a geography know it all, ask what is the southernmost part of the USA. Many places claim this special recognition, but at 19 degrees latitude, South Point Beach on Hawaii’s Big Island takes the pineapple. Known as Ka Lae, it’s … Read more
Located in the center of Germany, the federal state of Thuringia has plenty to attract tourists of all ages, from rolling hills to nature preserves with scenic hike-and-bike trails, from relaxing spas and health resorts to winter sports centers for downhill and cross-country skiing. But if you’re a “city person” … Read more
Weimar is a city made for walking and, if you take an impromptu stroll, at almost every turn you’ll encounter statues, museums and famous buildings linked to the Age of Enlightenment. Located centrally in the German federal state of Thuringia, this UNESCO World Heritage destination was the focal point of … Read more
There was a time when the Catholic Church offered absolution from sins in exchange for money – the sale of indulgences. There was a man – Martin Luther, a thinker, a monk and a rebel who fought against the sale of indulgences with his weapon of choice – his words.
When you think of Cuba, old cars, cigars, mojitos and Buena Vista Social Club come to mind, not exactly things your children might appreciate. But if you’re willing to venture a few miles outside of Havana, you’ll find a wealth of family oriented actives for all ages.
Martin Luther, the great religious reformer who lived from 1483 to 1546, is one of the most famous figures in German history. Anyone wanting to follow in the footsteps of Martin Luther can visit many of the most important places associated with his life in the German federal state of Thuringia, located in the heart of the country.
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
When I moved to California years ago, I vowed to explore it. After settling in San Diego, I enjoyed many visits to northern California and developed a real connection with some of California’s well known destinations – L.A., San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Carmel and Napa. But those journeys paled in … Read more
Like to be at the center of things? Then travel to Thuringia. Located in the middle of Germany, the federal state of Thuringia is an attractive tourist destination with much to offer travelers of all ages. Although Thuringia is still better known to European tourists than to Americans, that’s about … Read more
Some kids are suckers for trains. I admit I was one of them. At least once or twice a week a few of us “trainies” would head for the local tracks near the neighborhood and try to clock in the speeds as the shiny cars sped along a (now … Read more
Nothing compares to the thrill that can be experienced in Siena, Italy during summer. This ancient town located in central Tuscany dates back to the 14th century. The fan-shaped Piazza del Campo, the town’s center square and a UNESCO World Heritage site, was used for activities such as jousting, boxing … Read more
Dave Shearon and Mario Castro, life partners, left the cold winters of Chicago behind when they purchased the Ashford Manor B & B in Watkinsville, Georgia. They saw the inn for the first time on New Year’s Day, 1997. Walking around the grounds and then inside, both David and Mario … Read more
Twenty years ago if you mentioned to anyone that you were going to Pittsburgh the response would’ve been “Why? Everything is covered with grit from the steel mills.” That was true then; today Pittsburgh has come a long way from its “steel city” days and is now a growing metropolis … Read more
Whether you’ve been one time or a hundred times, every jaunt to Las Vegas is different. When a city features the Eiffel Tower across from Lake Bellagio, a short distance from the Pyramid of Giza and around the corner from the Brooklyn Bridge, it’s no ordinary town. Add its ever … Read more