Midsummer Travel Plans
A few months ago, summer seemed so distant. July was an empty playground to be filled with hikes, sailing on the lake, driving with the top down and barbeques with all your friends. But sneaky June has come and gone, leaving you in panic mode. Where did the time go? … Read more
Après Ski at 39 Degrees Lounge
It is no wonder that the term used to describe, “after skiing shenanigans” is French. Après ski has become a universal term originating from the European concept of bringing an end to an epic day of skiing with some drinks, dancing and socializing. Austria has particularly cultivated the art of … Read more
Eight K, Aspen
Snowmass Village, Colorado Boudin balls with fennel remoulade awaken your palate and spark curiosity about what’s next … a surprising barbequed shrimp with grits and crisp duck rillettes made of duck confit enlivened with cassis jelly and pistachios. These appetizers surely have you thinking – ‘Creole food in the middle … Read more
Where Celebrities Wed
A-listers always know what’s hot, which is why summer is such a suitable time for a celebrity wedding. But it also translates well for the hoi polloi, as those who decide to tie the knot in June, July or August are savvy enough to realize that tropical locations are picture-perfect … Read more
Marilyn Monroe In Palm Springs
I see London, I see France, I see Marilyn’s underpants … There’s little doubt of Marilyn Monroe’s predominance as America’s iconic sex symbol. One of the most timeless and well-known images of Marilyn has her standing over the subway grates in a white halter dress as the wind blows her … Read more
Hudson River School Trail
The Hudson River School was a mid-19th century group of landscape painters noted for their romantic depiction of America’s rapidly changing landscape. Named for the region in which the movement originally began, the paintings depicted the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains and surrounding areas. Thomas Cole, considered the founder of the … Read more
Montreal’s Gay Pride
Are you ready for Montreal’s third annual Queer of the Year competition? Yup, you’ve read that correctly. Five finalists will be flown to Montreal while it’s in full bloom for Gay Pride week (Aug 13-19) for an all expense paid trip. Finalists will be judged in a series of “social … Read more
Discovering Leipzig
When I lived in West Germany before the fall of the Berlin Wall, cities across the border in the Communist East Bloc seemed a world away. Any travel to East Germany was especially restricted, and the red tape required for visiting wasn’t worth the hassle. But all that has changed, … Read more
Ishikawa Travel Guide App
Here’s an idea for a summer destination: anywhere in Ishikawa. Bordered by the Japan Sea on the western coast of Japan, this prefecture perfectly lends itself to outdoor sports and relaxation. Just so you know what to expect, Kanazawa, the most well-known city in Ishikawa, rightfully boasts of Japan’s best … Read more
Landhuis Daniel, Curacao
A large open air patio cooled by swirling ceiling fans lures you into Landhuis Daniel, a stunning tropical setting that appears at the end of a drive down a long country road. Chirping crickets and the bling of an occasional firefly provide the perfect setting for romance, along with world … Read more
Selene, Pyrgos, Santorini
A striking amber chandelier leads the way into Selene’s dining room. It definitely belongs in the Dale Chihuly school of art glass fixtures but it has a freeform composition that can only be the representation of the Greek spirit. It’s also emblematic of the restaurant’s inventiveness, the glow casting a … Read more
Cabana Beach, Curacao
A gleaming disco ball under a neon canopy greets you at Cabana Beach along with a “friendly” beach person. After all this is a beach restaurant and guards are down. Groovy retro sounds from the sixties, seventies and eighties se the mood and the lounge atmosphere fits perfectly with the … Read more
Barnes Foundation, Philadelphia
One of the most exciting events in art news this summer is the opening of the new building housing Philadelphia’s famous Barnes Foundation’s collection of masterpieces. Albert C. Barnes amassed a fortune in the early 20th century developing pharmaceuticals. With the subsequent sale of his company, he became a passionate … Read more
Travel Resources
So, you’re planning a vacation. Maybe you’re still in the early stages of the process – you haven’t picked a destination, and you’re not clear yet on the exact dates. Maybe you’re not even sure who’s going with you or how you’re getting there. Maybe you’re weeping under a pile … Read more