My yearlong culture trip continues to be both enjoyable and fascinating. If you’re new here, I’ve committed to engage in and highlight the color and culture of a different country each month. This first venture was Spanish flamenco dancing. I enrolled in classes and chronicled the progress (or lack of :-)) on social media and
One joy of travel is learning other countries traditions. Indigenous food, music, and dance all reveal culture handed down through generations. These traditions are emblematic of the countries where they originate. Travel is the great unifier. I find people eager to teach their practices, and equally as enthusiastic to learn other countries heritages. As we
The EU has postponed European Travel Information & Authorization System (ETIAS) visa requirements for US passport holders until 2025. Originally slated to be required in 2024, ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization linked to your passport. It allows short-term entry into European countries up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The purpose is to
Imagine a world where long security lines, shoe removal, and unpacking your laptop at the airport become distant memories. That world exists, and it’s called TSA PreCheck, an expedited security program. The Department of Homeland Security started this service under the Trusted Traveler program in 2013. Here’s how it works. As a TSA PreCheck member,
Tips to Host a French Themed Dinner Party
- Europe, France, My Blog
- charcuterie board, Duralex Picardie clear tumblers, Flip top glass water bottles, French bread basket, French cloth napkins, French country table cloth, French plates, French press, French theme dinner party, From Paris to Rio, Karrin Allyson, Maldon Sea Salt, olive oil dispenser, Parisian homes, rooster apron, salt and pepper shakers, Springtime In Paris, Taper candle holder set, the city of light, Voluspa candles
I miss traveling. The anticipation when planning a trip, foreign foods, experiencing new places, meeting people around the world. I miss it all. Undoubtedly, you do too. While countries outside the United States may be closed for now, we can still create our own foreign getaway at home. A few years ago I spent the
10 Photos to Inspire You to Visit French Polynesia
- French Polynesia, Oceania
- Aitutaki, Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Mo'orea, Noa Noa vanilla paste, Tahiti, Tahitian pineapple, Tahitian vanilla
French Polynesia is a breathtaking archipelago in the South Pacific an 8.5 hour flight southwest of Los Angeles. A total of 118 islands over 2,500 square miles make up the territory. Many of them are uninhabited. But, breathtaking Tahiti, Bora Bora, Mo’orea and a few other atolls call the area home and are popular tourist
10 Tips When Planning Your Trip to Ireland
- Europe, Ireland
- activities in Ireland, cell phone roaming, International adaptor, Ireland, Irish rail pass, passport, plan a trip to Ireland, translation app, travel insurance, TSA precheck
Ireland is a must-visit destination in Europe! On a recent trip to Southern Ireland I was amazed at the kindness of locals, the jaw-dropping natural beauty and the centuries-old castles dotting the countryside. Planning ahead allows you to make the most of your vacation. Certain tips save time and money while you’re exploring the Emerald
10 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Ireland
- Europe, Ireland
- Ashford castle, bagpipe players, bagpipes, Blarney Castle, cathedrals, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Galway Salt Hill, Ireland, Irish food, Irish Wolfhounds, Portmagee, Portmagee crab claws, sheep, wild Atlantic way
Ireland is even more awe-inspiring in person. Recently, I traveled throughout the country’s southern part — the Republic of Ireland. Verdant pastures, historic estates, and grazing livestock provided picture-postcard scenery around every corner. Gazing at the Cliffs of Moher will leave you awestruck. The bluffs tower 702-feet over Clare coast and stretch five miles. They’ve
Irish Brown Soda Bread
- Europe, Ireland, My Blog
- bread, cake pan, cooling rack, cutting board, Ireland, Irish brown soda bread, Irish soda bread, whole wheat bread
Irish brown soda bread is served in homes and restaurants throughout Ireland. Its rustic, nutty flavor are the perfect addition to a meal. This bread is savory, not sweet. Traditionally served warm with salted butter alongside hearty stews, citrus jellies on top are another favorite spread for breakfast with a pot of tea. Most families
Irish Stew With Carrots & Turnips
- Europe, Ireland, My Blog
- Dutch oven, Ireland, Irish food, Irish stew, recipes, St. Patty's Day, stews, Traditional Irish food
Irish stew is native to Ireland and considered their national dish. There are numerous variations of the stew. Many households use beef for the protein, as well as potatoes, leeks, or cabbage. But, traditional Irish stew is made with lamb and root vegetables. In the Irish language the stew is called stobhach gaelach. Once a