If you have a love of history, or want to instill it in others, research the budget flights to Washington DC, and check out some of the vital documents of our nation’s history with a visit to the National Archives. The National Archives is the repository for documents related to the business of running the country, which in turn are made available for public viewing. Thee aren’t some dry and dusty pieces of paper, though, these are some of the most legally and historically significant documents of our country’s history. The most significant documents to me are those related to the founding of the country and, in fact, they are some of the most often visited displays. The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution are proudly displayed in a Rotunda, with the original documents preserved and displayed in glass […]
Read MoreCategory Archive: Destinations
Where to See Wildlife in Kenya
When it comes to thinking about an African safari, Kenya usually figures prominently on the list. There are plenty of day trips and sights to see in Kenya, although most safaris in Kenya center on one of the major areas, parks, or reserves. Amboseli National Park Formerly known as the Maasai Amboeli Game Reserve, this park is part of a larger eco-system that spans the Kenya-Tanzania border. The reserve has an active tourism economy and offers some of the best opportunities for viewing wildlife in Africa, if not the world. You can have a very successful visit, even if only for a weekend, and offers the best opportunity for getting close to free-ranging elephants. The Reserve has been designated a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve, and in addition to the wildlife, visitors can enjoy the views of Mount Kilimanjaro and […]
Read MoreMardi Gras Celebrations Around the U.S.
I’m currently on a plane (yay inflight wi-fi), heading to Shreveport-Bossier for my first Mardi Gras celebration. When I was younger, the idea of partying and whooping it up at this quintessentially decadent holiday had great appeal with all the drinking, parades, and beads. Somewhere along the way to adulthood, the allure faded and the idea of a Mardi Gras celebration had more appeal in my mind that in my reality. At a recent travel event, however, I had the opportunity to meet and chat with some lovely people from the Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau. I’ve never been to Shreveport, but they shared the knowledge and enthusiasm about their area, and convinced me that Mardi Gras there was just as much fun, while still being primarily family friendly. Sure, there were still some of the traditional activities – parades, […]
Read MoreRoyal Beasts Return to Tower Of London
The Royal Wedding isn’t the only royal excitement in London the spring, although it probably overshadows most. But there’s another magical story that comes to life this spring, and that’s the story of the Royal Menagerie at the Tower of London. The Royal Menagerie was first established at the Tower of London in the early 1200s, making it one of the country’s oldest zoo. “Royal Beasts” offers visitors a chance to see these former residents through a display of modern sculpture, along with interactive and sensory displays. The displays will be housed in the north wall walk (recently restored) as well as the Brick Tower, opening for the first time. The Tower offers audio guides in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Dutch, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean and Chinese (Mandarin), providing English School in London students an opportunity to enjoy a […]
Read MoreSun & Sand on Mallorca
A popular Spanish holiday island in the the Mediterranean, Mallorca has a bit of a split personality. On one side are the secluded beach, challenging cycling trails, spectacular natural beauty for hiking and enjoying, challenging deep water rock climbing, and an environment that creates a haven for a variety of seabirds. On the other side, Mallorca appeals to the hip and trendy, with luxury resorts, marinas full of yachts and luxury sailing craft, top notch restaurants, and plenty of rocking nightlife and bars. So how does a visitor take advantage of the warm weather in Mallorca, and reconcile these two versions of the island into a wonderful vacation? There’s plenty to do on Mallorca, whether you’re young, hip, and ready to party, or are just looking for a relaxing beach getaway. Here’s some ideas on how to make Mallorca the […]
Read MoreDelicious Dining From Oahu’s Food Trucks
Lunch wagons have long been a part of the Hawaiian culture, feeding workers as well as hungry surfers. Lately, though, it seems these 4-wheeled eateries have started providing more upscale, dare I say gourmet friendly cuisine, responding, in large part, to the mobile restaurant trend that’s hot all across the country. Choose from among these eclectic choices on your next Hawaii vacation for a fun, local dining option: Haili’s Hawaiian Foods – This small, family run business has been a favorite with locals for over 60 years, serving up traditional and contemporary Hawaiian food. They’ve recently expanding to a lunch wagon that they’ve located in an open parking lot across from Ward Entertainment Center. Food choices: Hawaiian and local plate lunches, stews, wraps, and rice bowls. Ige’s Lunchwagon – Located in the Harbor Court, this lunch wagon serves up savory […]
Read MorePhoto: Daytona Speedway
Last year I had the opportunity to visit Daytona Speedway, and I’m remindsx of it today while the Daytona 500 is running. To be honest, I’m not a NASCAR fan, nor really of racing in general – although I have plenty of friends and family members who are. But I went to the speedway with an open mind to learn about a sport than fascinates millions of people. This photo was taken in front of the stands (the ones you see, if you’re watching on television today). It’s an iconic shot with the stands, pit row, and the finish line right at hand. After some time to take photos, we were loaded up into a pace car for a few laps around the 2 1/2 mile tri-oval course. Although our speed was nothing like the race speeds, we did get […]
Read MoreAustralia’s Ahhhhh Factor
Even well-traveled and jaded adults will succumb to what I call Australia’s “Ahhhhh” factor – the unusual, cute, and often cuddly-looking animals that you’re sure to find on the picture postcards from the smallest of our continents. While there is much to see on holidays to Australia, seeing the animals always seem to be a part of the experience. What’s in store for animal loving travelers? Kangaroos – This hopping marsupial is the iconic animal of Australia, and will be found on the country’s coat or arms, on some currency, and in a variety of advertising. And although you won’t find them in the major cities, once you venture out into the countryside you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled to make sure you don’t run into one. Literally. Those yellow Kangaroo crossing road signs are a serious warning, not […]
Read MoreBaby Boomer Berlin
As a student, I learned history by memorizing dates, place, battles, generals, and a host of other stuff that I just couldn’t relate to. Traveling, however, has helped put history into perspective, a trait common with Baby Boomers, I believe, who learned history through rote memorization rather than through any experiential or emotional connection. That’s why I believe that Baby Boomer travel to Berlin has become popular. This generation, defined as those born in the years after the end of World War II, are visiting the city that is symbolic of the end of the Cold War. Here are a five historical Berlin sites that should be of interest to Baby Boomers: Berlin Wall – This symbol, which for so many years represented the division in Germany, is crumbling, both from age and tourists. A section has been preserved as […]
Read MoreMy Love Affair with Italy
Do you remember the first time you fell in love? Was it love at first sight, or was it the kind of love that grows over time? Did you go through the ups and downs that all relationships seem to experience, or has it been nothing but smooth sailing? Do you still see the goodness behind the facade, or has your love faded over the years? When you see your love, whether it’s every single day or with extended absences, does it still make you smile, perhaps your heart skips a beat? And when you finally must part, do you start planning and counting the days until you are reunited once again? That’s how I feel about Italy. I forged a relationship with Italy rather late in life. I first knew her through family and friends who teased me with […]
Read More