New Mexico has some of the most scenic and diverse small towns in the United States, but sometimes you have to get off the interstate to see them. The town of Madrid (population about 300) is one of those places. Although it may not be as famous as other places in New Mexico, it has […]
Archive | Lifestyle
The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
What do drinking games, dancing young people, and Pope Francis have in common? The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, Italy. When we visit Rome our go to hotel is the Mecenata Palace Hotel which is located atop Esquiline Hill. The hotel is directly across the street from the Basilica, and our requested room […]
The Remarkable Craigdarroch Castle: A Study of Contrasts
Sitting atop one of the highest look-out points in the city of Victoria, the strikingly beautiful Craigdarroch Castle is easy to spot from miles away. Its soaring cone topped tower, majestic roof line and beautiful natural rock walls make this Victorian mansion a gem in the world of architecture. If you take the pedestrian route, […]
Bike Riding in Phoenix!
Breathing in the fresh air . . . warm sunshine on your face . . . sounds of children playing. Phoenix has phenomenal weather this time of year. It’s sunny, clear, and warm during the day and slightly chilly in the evenings. It’s a great time for being outside and enjoying our phenomenal climate. It’s […]
5 Rivers and Lakes You Can Cruise in Arizona
If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, you’re probably imagining the mountains, the deserts and the beautiful colors that fill the skies and the landscape. Even if you live in Arizona, you’re probably quite accustomed to its dry and arid climate and familiar with its most notable attractions. In the midst of all of this, […]
Seeing the Backroads on a Honkin’ Sedona Jeep Tour
Oh, the joys of riding in a convertible! A Sedona Jeep tour fills the bill. It brings back feelings of being a kid again, living footloose and carefree. Riding with the top down . . . gentle breezes through your hair . . . sunshine on your face. . . nothing but blue sky overhead. […]
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
We’re Back! Shelli and I just spent four days in Albuquerque, New Mexico for the 2015 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. A double blessing for us, daughter and family are located there. I have attached the following video to give you a glimpse of the beauty and uniqueness of this event. For best results, view in Full […]
Cruising Historic Castles – Middle Rhine River
Cruising historic castles, vibrant scenery, comfortable lodging and mind-blowing excursions, all included as you float the Middle Rhine River through Germany. For the novice and seasoned traveler, we recommend the Historic Castles of the Middle Rhine River. A holiday you will remember. The video highlighted here, was captured on the Rhine Getaway which voyages between […]
Supermoon Lunar Eclipse 2015
The moon passed through Earth’s shadow on Sunday, Sept. 27, 2015. This total, supermoon lunar eclipse 2015 was dazzling. Although this incarnation of the moon comes around only once every year, this “supermoon” eclipse was something special. The orbit of the moon is not a circle but an oblong. At the narrow part of the oblong, […]
6 Best Brunch Places in Central Phoenix
Brunch is a favorite meal and not just because of the food. It is a weekend pursuit. It’s fun to try new places, new recipes, and different neighborhoods. If you’re visiting or just looking for a different place to go, here are five of our favorite places to find brunch in Central Phoenix. The Vig This […]
9 Beautiful Bridges of the World
Throughout the ages man has run into barriers and overcome them. Whether we walk, ride a bike, drive a car, bus, or motorcycle, water is a barrier that impedes our progress. Jesus may have walked on it, and Moses spread it, but most of us need a way to cross over it. I can’t tell […]
Hire a Vatican Tour Guide – Totally Worth It
The Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy. However, if you want to do more than just scratch the surface, take a few thousand pictures, and be completely overwhelmed at the sight of so many famous masterpieces, consider scheduling a guided Vatican Tour. WHY HIRE […]
Historic Jerome Arizona – Haunted Jerome Grand Hotel
The archives record it as Historic Jerome, Arizona. However, people visiting from around the world speak of it as picturesque, distinctly western, fun, friendly and HAUNTED. Jerome is located at an elevation of 5,200 feet on the side of Cleopatra Hill, a portion the east rim of Verde Valley. It occupies a prominent status on […]
A Walk in Historic Old Town Cottonwood, Arizona
Looking for Historic buildings and businesses . . . quaint shops and diners . . . top-shelf wineries on both sides of the street . . . all are yours to enjoy in a two block stroll on Main Street in Historic Old Town Cottonwood, Arizona. With its mild climate, friendly people and wide variety of […]
Riding the Verde Canyon Railroad
Fresh, clean country air with just a hint of pine and mesquite . . . peaceful sounds of the slow moving river . . . the vibrant orange Arizona sunset . . . . wildlife along the river’s edge. The rhythmic clickety-clack of a slow-moving historic train. The Verde Canyon Railroad carries passengers through one […]
Our Stay at the Hotel Edelweiss, Wengen, Switzerland
From our vantage point in Wengen, the Jungfrau Range is a lot to take in. It’s a dramatic backdrop, especially today. The billowy white clouds float effortlessly in the bright blue sky, allowing an occasional glimpse of the tops of some of Switzerland’s highest and most rugged peaks. The Classic Swiss Village of Wengen Wengen […]
5 Not-so-Subtle Differences between Americans and Italians
I’ve always heard that travel expands our horizons. I believe that’s true. Travel makes us appreciate what we have. It allows us to learn about traditions and lifestyles different from our own. We get to see spectacular landscapes, historical landmarks, and inspiring architectures that we’ve only read about. But, as soon as you get off […]
The Corrales NM Backyard
Corrales, NM, is located on the north central edge of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Corrales is home to my daughter, son-in-law and two kids who reside on a hillside in the middle of a critter collection with spacious views. If you look to the north and east you have an unimpeded view of the Sandia Mountains […]
Fireworks in Albuquerque 2015
I thought it would be nice to post a short slideshow of the fireworks show in Albuquerque, New Mexico on July 4, 2015. These shots were captured from the backyard of my Son-in-law and daughters house in Corrales, NM. They sit up on a hill side overlooking the Fiesta Balloon Park where the annual Albuquerque […]
Getting “High” in Switzerland: Traveling the Alps
Everyone should have the opportunity to visit Switzerland at least once while traveling the Alps! It’s sure to be one of the best experiences of a lifetime! My family and I had our first opportunity to hike, climb, explore, and take in the spectacular beauty of the Swiss Alps. This was one of the places I’ve […]