The dance instructor called out “forward treble, brush, brush, hop” to the room full of students. At least that’s what I think she said. This was my first attempt at the popular Irish jig. My fifth month into a yearlong culture trip exploring traditions from twelve different countries had me learning céilís (dances) of the
Taiwan is the size of Indiana, with a population of almost 24 million people. The island is located roughly 100 miles southeast of China. Although an independent country since 1949’s political strife with the Chinese Communist Party, China still claims Taiwan as one of it’s provinces. Despite the contentious relationship between these countries, their traditions,
Groovy hits the desert in a big way with Modernism Week. The annual 10-day festival hosts 350 events showcasing the best of all things mid-century. Architecture, art, fashion, decor, landscaping, talks and more provide inspiration for how to emulate the 1950’s in your own home. Over 100,000 people attend the festival. Events are spread throughout
“I want you to discover the joy of creations by your own hand…The possibility of creation from paper is infinite.” —Akira Yoshizawa This wise man was the grandmaster of origami. He developed the current standards for diagramming instructions and designed countless patterns. For the fourth month of my year-long Culture Trip I learned the Japanese
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
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