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
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
During COVID-19 when families around the globe are isolated, meals provide needed solace. Gathering for dinner is the great equalizer, and shows how similar we all are. Preparing food together draws us closer. This is a time to collectively cook global recipes which transcend borders and unify humanity. While traveling isn’t possible now, experimenting with new
San Diego Zoo Opens Wildlife Explorers Basecamp
- My Blog
- bees, critters, desert, dunes, marshes, outdoors, rainforest, San Diego, walks, wild woods, wildlife, zoo
Just in time for summer, the San Diego Zoo opened its new Wildlife Explorers Basecamp. Built on the site of the former Children’s Zoo, this three acre interactive exhibit is designed to educate guests of all ages on wildlife conservation. It especially caters to kids, showing them the role they play in creating a world
5 Simple Lunar New Year Recipes
- Asia, My Blog
- Chinese Five spice chicken, Chinese food recipes, glass noodles, Lunar New Year, lunar new year recipes, pot stickers, wok
The Lunar New Year is Sunday, January 22nd. The holiday is determined by a traditional Chinese calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycle and the Earth’s course around the sun. It falls on the second new moon after winter solstice. Each Lunar New Year is associated with an animal; 2023 is the year of