Most people were pretty shocked - and a little scared - when I announced I was going to visit Nicaragua. I was asked why, what was there, was it really worth what was perceived as a safety risk. Well, after two weeks exploring much of the Pacific region of the country (more than 60% of…
It is hot. Very hot, sitting at an even 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The air is steamy, the humidity approaching 85% and seeping through me. I stand in the shade of a tree, drinking water and sweating it out just as fast, staring at Temple 1, a large pyramid at one side of Tikal's grand plaza.…
It's all Southern Californians are currently talking about, what with baseball season barely underway and the Lakers far out of the playoff picture in the NBA. It is a natural phenomenon breathtaking to behold, and on such a scale that it can be seen from space. No, not fires, although that's a good guess, sadly.…
Crystal clear waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Quaint medieval buildings along hillside cobblestone streets. Canals lined with cafes, criss-crossed by bridges. Lakefront parks. A castle and hilltop church overlooking the whole scene. It sounds pretty perfect, doesn't it? I am only a two hour - and €18 - bus ride from my apartment in bustling…
Bordeaux is a wonderful city. It has broad boulevards lined with trees, charming eighteenth century architecture, a wealth of tasty restaurants and wine bars, and cute parks and squares to lose oneself to one's thoughts. I love it here. And yet, there is so much to do just outside the city boundaries, as well, and…
In November of 2018, three fires devastated parts of California, in what has seemingly become a dark annual ritual. While the main story has been - and should be - the incredible loss of life and property from the blazes, I also wanted to tell the tale of a place that is very special to…
Often, destinations that are a bit more remote tend to be ignored. Places outside big cities, lacking in national parks or other well-known landmarks, can still be wonderful. There is a calmness to rolling hills, forests and meadows, mountains and streams that are, of themselves, not a focal point for travel. Southwestern Pennsylvania is one…
Sometimes, travelers are lucky in weather. I've had perfectly blue skies at Crater Lake in Oregon in a single week between snow storms, had the rain let up in Amsterdam just as I arrived, and had a storm abate just long enough to visit the ruins at Ephesus before it came back in. Other times,…
For most people from elsewhere, West Virginia is a bit of a blank spot. We know it exists, but we don't know what there is to do there. It's most famous export, coal, isn't exactly something that draws the tourists in droves. However, West Virginia is a wonderful place. It has some unique history, incredible…
"Almost heaven, West Virginia. Blue Ridge Mountains. Shenandoah River. Life is old here, older than the trees. Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze." The song is beautiful, and one I can't stop singing as my father and I criss-cross this state. The mountains loom over us, wisps of clouds hovering around the tops,…