In my touring around Tokyo, I was fortunate to happen upon a number of traditional weddings, giving me an opportunity to learn more about the customs and traditions involved. In this post-wedding reception, a helpful mom assists with her daughter’s wedding kimono.
Read MoreFinnair Flight Attendants: Tales from a Thousand and One Flights
Finnair Flight Attendants have published a collection of stories from their lives in the skies aptly titled Airborne: Tales From A Thousand And One Flights, Drawing on decades of flight attendant history and experiences, Airborne is a collection of true stories written by the professionals who’ve seen it all. You think they make this stuff up, huh? Not a chance! There are too many crazy true stories, you just don’t have to make it up. The book is available in English and Finnish, with profits from the sale donated to the Finnish Central Association for Mental Health to be used in the prevention of mental health issues among children and adolescents. Finnair won the World Airline Award for Best Airline Northern Europe for the past three years running. Photo credit: Atar Publishing
Read MorePostcard from the Air: ANA Dreamliner at 40,000 Feet
I flew from Seattle to Tokyo on ANA’s inaugural Dreamliner flight. There was plenty of mood lighting, during boarding as well as this peaceful post-dinner evening lighting. This aircraft, and ANA’s business class service, has me spoiled about luxury flying. See more pictures in my Tokyo flickr stream.
Read MoreUpdated Map of Where I’ve Been
Now that I’m back from TBEX in Spain, it’s time to update my map of how much of the world I’ve visited. I still have lots (and lots!) of countries to visit, but plan on checking another one off this coming week. Make yours @ BigHugeLabs.com
Read MorePostcard from Girona, Spain
Colorful homes line the Onyar River in Girona, Costa Brava, Spain. Walking across the bridge is an eyeful of color.
Read MoreSpain by Land or by Sea
My head has been thinking a lot about Spain these days and have been sussing out all the things to see and do in the Catalunia province in northeastern Spain, from the big city of Barcelona to the mid-sized city of Girona to the small town of Begur. There’s exciting stuff: medieval cities, historic town centers, fabulous food and drink, incredible, art, charming seaside villages, beaches, and lots more. Oh yeah, my time is Catalunia is going to be just fine. As I talked to friends and family members who have been to Spain (I haven’t, this is my first trip there), I discovered that a family member is going to Barcelona to start a cruise during the precise time I am going to be in there. We live 20 miles apart from one another, but we have to travel […]
Read MorePostcard: Macadamia Nut Pancakes in Hawaii
While it may be a more touristy choice than loco moco, I’ll take macadamia nut pancakes any time I’m visiting one of the islands of Hawaii. Add some coarsely chopped macadamia nuts to your pancake batter, then plop them on the griddle as usual. Add some slice fruit and more macadamia nuts on top and serve with maple (my preference) or coconut syrup. It’s a little taste of the islands even when you’re at home.
Read MoreMy Favorite Paris Museum
In a city as full of museums as Paris, you might think think it tough to choose a favorite. After a whirlwind week soaking up as much as I possible could, and visiting more than a few museums, there were only a few Paris museums that made a lasting impression. The Louvre was vast and covered an extensive period of time. But while I enjoyed it, the art on display – with a few notable exceptions – wasn’t really my cup of tea. The Rodin displayed statuary that was lovely, but it didn’t offer the depth to really captivate me. Although this museum would score a solid second on my list of favorites in large part because of the gardens that surround it. The Centre Pompidou made me smile with its architecture and exhibits, the Delacroix was nice, the Quai […]
Read MorePostcard from Napa: National Cabernet Day
I know that there are all sorts of made up holidays, but National Cabernet Day is one I can get behind. One of the world’s most popular grapes, it’s a cross between cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc grapes. While the Bordeaux region of France is home to some of the best cabernet grapes in the world, you’ll also find a nice selection much closer to home – in Napa. Don’t rush out to buy a card for this holiday, just raise your glass in appreciation.
Read MorePostcard from Carlsbad: Pacific Ocean
A few weeks ago, I head to Carlsbad, California, for a weekend retreat with the staffs of TBEX and NMX. We stayed in a beach house along the Pacific Ocean coast which offered a wonderful view to stir up lots of creativity. I love quiet mornings looking out at the ocean.
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