I can't believe that this trip is upon me. I've wanted to visit Guatemala since my first exposure to Mayan culture in Belize about fifteen years ago. On that trip, I journeyed to Altun Ha, a small Mayan trading city. It was impressive, and I learned of the existence of the grandest Mayan city of…
After an incredible three months in France and a month back stateside, it is time for me to head back out of the country. The destination? Central America! I've designated this Central America Part One since I will be returning to a couple more countries later in the year. It wasn't intentional to visit Central…
Well, February just flew by. My time in Bordeaux is already coming to an end, and it is now a chance to look ahead to next month, my last in France (for now). March sees me traveling to Lyon, the culinary hub of France and, of course, some side trips to better explore the region.…
February is nearly upon us, and with the changing of the month, my time in Marseille is drawing to a close. Up next: the wine capital of France - and the city voted most livable in the country - Bordeaux. However, as with my itinerary here in the south, I won't be confined to just…
While jet lag has its tentacles in me, I have arrived safe and sound in Marseille. France's second largest city and one of the most important Mediterranean ports, Marseille is a bit gritty, multi-cultural, and so far, absolutely wonderful. I will be here for a month, using the city as my base to explore the…
With the start of 2019, I am going to be traveling more, and a bit differently than in the past. I have rented out my house and am off on some longer journeys than I have undertaken before. My first stop: three months in France! To start, yes, I am skipping Paris. I have already…
I'm not leaving for a week, but timing of other posts mandates that this one go up a tad early. In any event, it is time for my annual driving trip with my father, and I am - as always - excited! This year we are headed to coal country to see the fall colors,…
I've said it before and I'll say it again: I love driving trips! I especially love driving trips when they combine seeing close friends, eating amazing food, experiencing exciting culture, and basking in natural beauty. Tomorrow I head east for a week spent driving through Arizona and New Mexico. Here is my itinerary, and of…
At my house I keep two large laminated maps on the wall. One is a world map and the other is a United States map. On each, I put star stickers on places I have been. The stars are all blue, though since the star manufacturer changed, they are in two slightly different shades. Don't…
The countdown to a trip is always a source of excitement for me. Last minute arrangements, sourcing my favorite travel sites for recommendations, and generally figuring out what I am going to do (though I always try to remain flexible) are a lot of fun. So here I am in the final days before my…