Step aside craft beers; there are some new spirits in town. Rum, vodka, gin and moonshine have all become an integral part of the San Diego scene as local distilleries brew up small batches for the cosmopolitan crowd. To introduce diners to these indie craft brands, Solare Ristorante in Liberty … Read more
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
Alaska’s bears are quite possibly the most popular attraction in the entire state. Whales breaching in graceful arcs are amazing and glaciers are icily gorgeous, sure. But bears? North America’s largest land mammal demands attention if only for the stories surrounding its fierce nature and frenetic feeding habits. Simply … 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
Traveling frequently to Chicago for business, I seem to be forever in search of a hotel that pampers the business traveler and offers unique amenities on site so if free time arises I can kick back and enjoy my surroundings. I recently discovered that The Thompson Hotel fits the bill … Read more
Wilderness meets pampered luxury at Alaska’s four-star Hotel Alyeska. Ski runs overlook glaciers and powder reigns supreme. The mountain-top Seven Glaciers restaurant consistently receives Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence and a bounty of first-class amenities make this resort a go-to winter destination for those seeking adventure. Located just … Read more
New York is a tapestry of ever-changing places. Construction and build outs are literally everywhere (“Watch out for that crane”…), but many buildings manage to maintain a facade recognizable to long-time residents. Yet, even then change remains constant. And sometimes, that change comes in the form of delicious, cheap ramen. … 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
It’s difficult enough following a vegan diet, but doing it while traveling would seem close to impossible. And, especially in Italy where delicious home-made pasta, meats and cheeses are over the top tempting. Luckily, Vegano ItalianoTours, a joint project of Tierno Tours and Green Earth Travels, have teamed up to … 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
As the days grow longer and temperatures climb, ski resorts in the Great White North come alive. Locals shed their layers and it seems plenty of pent-up energy comes rushing to the surface. The general atmosphere becomes pretty wild, almost akin to an adults Spring Break. Sprintime events feature live … Read more
As long as there is a bit of a chill in the air on the East Coast the jet set will flock to Palm Beach to play golf and work on their tans. Situated on a pristine beach on the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by lush tropical gardens is the … Read more
Nestled high on a rugged perch along California’s Central coast and just a short, scenic ride from the Santa Ynez Valley,’ (the region’s ‘other wine country’), the Bacara Resort & Spa is a romantic enclave with the refined attributes of a full-service, luxury resort. Situated on a vast 78-acre plot … Read more