Key Largo Day Dreamin’

Island vacation lets you play hide and seek with tropical fish

Published on 1/09/12

Cruising along the Overseas Highway, the ride feels more like a nature trail than a roadway. Butterflies fly backward. Miniature deer bound through green mangroves. Read More »

Further Adventures of “Heidi, I’m Not!”

An interesting hike through the Alps

Published on 12/09/11

The B&Bs of Switzerland

Historic and sophisticated cities are a delight

Published on 12/09/11

The third of a three-part series Read More »

Merveilleux Montreux

An unsuspecting paradise in Switzerland

Published on 12/07/11

The first in a three-part series Read More »

Pittsburgh: More Than Steeler Nation

Cable cars, amazing risotto and art galleries are just a few of the city's attractions

Published on 9/28/11

Yes, Pittsburgh. Tell people you’re going to Steeler Nation—other than for a football game—and you get one of two reactions: “Why?!” Or, “I love Pittsburgh!” Read More »

It’s not hard to see why so many University of Virginia alums stay in Charlottesville long after they’ve earned that coveted diploma. This sophisticated but down-to-earth university town draws people in with its Southern charm and makes it hard to let go. The same holds true for visitors, which is one reason I keep returning to the area. Whether you’re a history buff, a bibliophile, a wine connoisseur, or are just in the mood for some R&R, Charlottesville should definitely be on your must-visit list. Read More »

Antarctic Voyage

Take a trip that's far from the norm

Published on 7/18/11

Lyon Lures Visitors with Cuisine

Haute cuisine and crystal waters

Published on 6/02/11

When I first heard Lyon’s claim as the gastronomic capital of France, I was wary. Surely, Paris held that title. Granted, Lyon is the home of three-star Michelin chef Paul Bocuse, the creator of Nouvelle Cuisine, but I needed proof. Read More »

A Sweet Getaway

Enjoy a bit of pampering and luxury in Hershey

Published on 1/28/11

It should come as no surprise that a family vacation to Hershey, Pa., will meet with an enthusiastic thumbs-up from the entire clan. What you may not realize is that you can have a fantastic time sans kids as well, as I did on a recent girlfriend getaway to the home of the chocolate bar. Read More »

A Fairy-Tale French Chateau

An elegant stay includes modern conveniences

Published on 10/27/10

Who hasn’t had thoughts that in a previous life she was, if not a princess, perhaps a countess, a duchess, or, at the very least, a mere lady of the manor? Read More »