My recent trip grew out of my wish to learn more about the Western Balkans, especially Serbia and Kosovo. I had visited Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, Slovenia, and Greece. This region's tapestry is culturally rich, woven at the crossroads of Roman, Greek, Slavic, and Ottoman civilizations. I specifically wanted to look more closely at Slavic history. Visoki Dečani Monastery, a 14th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery in Kosovo and a UNESCO World Heritage Site On

I have always loved history, and traveling connects me to the past in ways that study or books cannot. Whether investigating ancient ruins, visiting historic buildings, or admiring a piece of antique furniture, I appreciate the craftsmanship, the stories they tell, and their connection to people who lived long before my generation. During our recent travels through Serbia and Kosovo, I was reminded how much I value preserving old things, even when they are incorporated into

Cabo De Hornos, or Cape Horn, is the only place in the world where the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans meet. Located within Chile's Tierra del Fuego (Land of Fire), the world's southernmost national park, it is also the northern boundary of Drake's Passage, which separates Chile from Antarctica. Fortunately, my long-held desire to explore Patagonia led me to this meeting of the oceans, where I learned that it is a bucket-list destination for many. Disembarkation at Cape Horn, Chi

Planning a safari within a short time frame, my son and I lucked into Sanctuary Tambarare in Kenya's Ol Pejeeta Conservancy. It was sublime.

Lithuania doesn't appear on many people's travel lists, I am grateful it made it onto mine. I can say the same about Trakai National Park.

Lithuania's Kryzių Kalnas, or the Hill of Crosses is many things. Situated 8 miles north of the city of Siauliai, it has become an international site of pilgrimage. It is beautiful, eerie, spiritual, and perhaps most of all, it is powerfully evocative. A place of awareness and reflection, it memorializes and demonstrates the Lithuanian national identity, their spirit and perseverance, their faith, hope, and freedom. As one approaches the small hill down a lengthy walkway, the

I had anticipated some of the best parts of my safari; however, the birds of Amboseli surprised and delighted me.

When the location where I was employed closed earlier this year, I remained as a part-time employee, testing out the next chapter of my life: retirement. My husband Mike asked me how I wanted to celebrate my retirement. That was easy; go on holiday. His second question was where do you want to go? That was not easy. My first thoughts, such as Australia, Mike threw back to me, questioning if I really wanted to do that for myself or was it for the family. Isn't that what moms d

Amboseli National Park in Kenya provided five varying habitats, a plethora of wildlife, and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. What a treat!

Planning a wildlife safari in Kenya with my son, Ololo Safari Lodge & Farm provided the perfect first night in Kenya.

I enjoyed getting up early and going on solo walks around town. It was the perfect time to see vendors setting up their wares and observe the town in the quiet of the early morning. I thought I would simply post some of my candid shots from throughout the day. I hope they give you a flavor of life in Laos. The early morning markets are filled with items you would expect at a Laotian farmer's market, but also have a generous sprinkling of handcrafted items for sale. The night

Yesterday afternoon, it was raining hard in our neighborhood. While watching the rain, my hubby said that he was remembering the rain and greenery in Laos. Although we only spent a few days, it left an indelible impression on all three of us. Luang Prabang was inscribed on the World Heritage List in December 1994. It is recognized as an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional Lao architecture with that built by the European colonial authorities during the 19th and 20

The well preserved historic center, the many temples, and my wish to see the ancient practice of morning alms lured me to Luang Prabang.

I don't know why. Maybe it is Spring or Mother's Day approaching, but my mind is on flowers. I love every aspect of travel: from coming up with my list of places I desire to visit to the planning, in addition to the adventures in the destination. New sights, new tastes, new sounds, new smells, history and culture. But I also greatly enjoy the afterglow, remembering the time spent in a different location. When planning family vacations, I try to include something for everyone.

Whenever I plan a trip for my family, I try to pick something for everyone, attempting to include some fun, food, arts, history and culture. Sometimes, these can be quite sobering. Laos (Lao People's Democratic Republic) had been on my wish list for several years; we made it a reality in 2018. Although it does not appear on many lists of things to do when in Laos, I simply could not visit the country without taking my family to the UXO Visitors Center. Recovered bombs in fron

Visit Greece's best preserved and most complete temple from Classical Greece with me. It captured my heart

I chose Arles for the cuisine, the walk through history that includes Roman and Medieval ruins, and also to see where Van Gogh flourished. Having lived in Paris for two years, Vincent arrived in Arles on 20 February 1888 at the age of 35. He had headed south to escape the busy city life of which he had tired, and to pursue clearer skies offering brighter lighting. His plan as recounted by his brother Theo, was to go "first to Arles to get his bearings and then probably on to

Tasting Jean-Luc Rabanel's cuisine is worthy of a trip all by itself, but there are deeper reasons to visit Arles, France. Arles is an alluring town, not only for leisurely strolls but also for exploring Arles' Roman history. Dating back to the Roman era, Arles was a venerated city of Gaul. Like all important cities in Roman Gaul, Arles had its own amphitheater, built for entertainment. Constructed around the 1st century BC, the amphitheater seated 21,000 spectators to che

Planning my road trip so that I could visit Pont-du-Gard between Lyon and Nice, left me with one night to spend somewhere in between. Should it be Nimes, Avignon, Arles, or someplace else? Pondering several options, I decided upon Arles for multiple reasons; one of which was to experience the cuisine of French master chef Jean-Luc Rabanel, who is the culinary success story of the region. Rabanel, recipient of numerous awards and accolades, was named "Chef of the Year 2008" by

I recently read Elephant Whisperer, recommended by a dear friend. The book beautifully recalls the story of South African conservationist Lawrence Anthony accepting a herd of wild "rogue" elephants onto his game reserve, thus, preventing their demise. I enjoyed and recommend the book which highlights the connection that can be forged between elephant and human. It also made me think back to one of our family vacations in Southeast Asia. Elephant Nature Park Among my planned d