The World's Best Destinations
A Sunny Rendezvous in Mallorca, Spain Mallorca, Spain is one of the many popular summer travel destinations I’ve been hearing more and more about. It’s a small island off the coast of Spain in the Balearic Sea, even a short ferry ride from the infamous island of Ibiza. Mallorca is glistening, blue, and one of […]
Read more
For Ilaria Orefice, the voice is far more than a musical instrument—it is a bridge between cultures, histories, and human experiences. Born in Sardinia, Orefice’s journey has taken her from the island’s ancient vocal traditions to the overtone and throat-singing practices of Mongolia and Tuva, combining performance, teaching, and scientific research. Through her work, she […]
Read more
Our daughter Jessica has been the inspiration for my wife Sheri and me to embark on many hiking trips together. She was the motivator who got us up, out, and moving. We had such a great time on our Ten Falls hike in Oregon a couple of months earlier that we decided to stay in […]
Read more
A Trip to Austria – The Hills Are Alive Beautiful green hills, storybook villages, long train rides with a window seat, these are a few of my favorite things. My trip to Austria was extraordinary, as you’ll be able to see through the many pictures I took. The hills were truly alive, and if you […]
Read more
Our daughter Jessica decided she wanted to take my wife and me to Oregon. Sounded great until she mentioned that on day-2 we would be challenged with a 10-mile hike to see Trail of 10 Falls Oregon. I usually walk 2 miles a day, but my wife Sheri had stopped walking with me the previous […]
Read more
On October 25th, 2024, I attended my first-ever baseball game, which also happened to be Game One of the 2024 World Series. I am a 35-year-old Angeleno, and growing up in Los Angeles, the Dodgers were a household name. Despite baseball’s popularity in LA and the variety of sports venues available to me, I had […]
Read more
Traveling through Maine, it’s easy to see why so many American writers have found inspiration here. Every turn feels like stepping into a painting—especially in October, when the autumn colors are a living masterpiece of reds, yellows, and golds. My daughter, Madeline Maxine (yes, she was named that specifically to have “Mad Max” as a […]
Read more
My boyfriend and I chose the cute, quaint, magical island of Catalina to spend our 2-year anniversary. It was absolutely magical in every way. Winter in Catalina is a real-life Christmas movie. I swear I said “we are in a Hallmark movie” about 20 times. Our anniversary falls on December 19th. So it was nice […]
Read more
What’s in Ohio, and why travel there? I had a reason—my wife Sheri was raised in Toledo. Of course, there are a thousand reasons to travel to other destinations around the world, but every place has its own uniqueness, and that includes small-town Ohio in the heart of America. The Midwest is dotted with small […]
Read more
The Dolomites are a stunning mountain range located in northeastern Italy, part of the Southern Limestone Alps. Known for their dramatic, jagged peaks, steep cliffs, and unique rock formations, they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for their natural beauty and geological significance. The Dolomites span the regions of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, Veneto, and […]
Read more
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, (SV) a stunning feat of engineering, is a must-visit for any traveler interested in history, architecture, and natural beauty. Spanning the River Dee Valley in North Wales, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain, offering breathtaking views and a unique experience for visitors. The aqueduct, […]
Read more
Twenty-something in New York City Three days, four nights in New York City. It’s time to make summer a good one. Picture it, early 20s, having an identity crisis, and in desperate need of an adventure. Where does a girl got to go? The Big Apple. Thursday to Sunday-I planned a little getaway, packed full […]
Read more
Located in the Southeastern Anatolia region of Turkey, Gobekli Tepe is a remarkable archaeological site that has captivated the imagination of historians and archaeologists alike. Dating back to around 9600 BCE, it is often referred to as the world’s oldest known temple. This ancient site has rewritten the narrative of human history, challenging long-held assumptions […]
Read more
Most people would find 118 degrees unbearable. However, there are travel destinations worldwide that regularly experience such high summer temperatures, and many choose these places for their holiday vacations. California is home to Palm Springs, while Arizona boasts the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City. This summer I received a text from my long-time friend, […]
Read more
I’ve had so many thrilling adventures throughout the years, but I’ll never forget the marvelous time I had with my family for spring break at the incredible Terranea Resort. Situated on the rocky cliffs of Rancho Palos Verdes in California, this luxurious resort offers the most stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, as […]
Read more
As a producer for the movie Anno 2020, I have insights into some of its experimental creation, especially a one-day filming in Los Angeles at three different locations. ANNO 2020 was filmed during the world lockdown of COVID-19. Since it was impossible to send a film crew to different locations, director James Morcan adapted the […]
Read more
You’ve heard it before – Surf and Ski in the same day when in California. That is possible because of Big Bear. One and a half to two hours away from Malibu, perfect for a day trip to winter wonderland, or for an ultimate ski/snowboarding vacation if you don’t want to go all the way […]
Read more
Sirmione (SV) is a peninsula perched on the shores of Lake Garda and boasts historical treasures like the ancient Roman ruins of Grotte di Catullo and the medieval Rocca Scaligera Castle. Enveloped in the tranquil charm of Northern Italy, Sirmione is a haven for those captivated by history, with its thermal baths offering a taste […]
Read more
Chichén Itzá, located in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, is one of the most significant and well-known archaeological sites of the ancient Maya civilization. The history and allure of Chichén Itzá are rooted in its architectural, astronomical, and cultural significance. A Brief History The site was settled as early as the 6th century AD. It […]
Read more
Yucatan’s Spectacular Cenotes are a natural pit or sinkhole resulting from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath. Especially associated with the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, cenotes were sometimes used by the ancient Maya for sacrificial offerings. The formation of cenotes is typically linked to the dissolution of soluble rocks (such as limestone, […]
Read more
The Shroud of Turin and the Sudarium of Oviedo are two of the most famous and intriguing relics in Christian history, and they are believed by some to have a direct connection to Jesus Christ. The Shroud of Turin is located in the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Turin, Italy. The Shroud is […]
Read more
The Torrechiara Castle (Castello del Torrechiara) is located in the Parma region of Italy. It is one of the most striking examples of Italian castle architecture and has a rich history. While it may not have the opulence of Of Flagler’s Whitehall in Palm Beach, or the scale and reach of The Alhambra in Spain, […]
Read more
The Alhambra (SV) is a rich and complex historical site that is deeply intertwined with the Islamic history of Spain. It was originally constructed as a small fortress in 889 AD on the remains of Roman fortifications. However, the current complex was largely built by the Nasrid dynasty in the mid-13th century. The Nasrids were […]
Read more
DRIZZLED WITH CHRISTMAS What better time to indulge in a short getaway drizzled with spa and good food than during Christmas? That is exactly what we did. I impatiently seized the opportunity to visit the adorable Westlake Village Inn in Southern California with my husband and son. And what an experience that was! What if […]
Read more
The creation Ethiopia’s Rock Hewn Church of the Saint George (SV) is a remarkable story that blends historical craftsmanship with religious devotion. Located in in Lalibela, Ethiopia, this architectural marvel was created during the reign of King Gebre Mesqel Lalibela, a member of the Zagwe dynasty, who ruled Ethiopia in the late 12th and early […]
Read more
Located in the American Southwest, Antelope Canyon (SV) appears as a mesmerizing labyrinth of smooth, flowing sandstone. Located near Page, Arizona, this slot canyon is a favorite destination for photographers and adventurers. There are upper and lower Antelope Canyons which include separate other canyons such as Rattlesnake Canyon, Mountain Sheep Canyon, Porcupine Canyon, Owl Canyon, […]
Read more
Easter Island, known as Rapa Nui to its native Polynesian inhabitants, is most famous for its nearly 1,000 monumental statues, called moai, created by the early Rapa Nui people. Inhabited around the first millennium CE, the island was discovered by Europeans on Easter Sunday in 1722, hence its name. It is one of the most […]
Read more
Trolltunga Cliff (SV) stands out in the heart of one of Norway’s most breathtaking landscapes and stands as a canvas to its natural artistry. This majestic natural rock formation, jutting out about 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet, offers a panoramic spectacle of the Norwegian wilderness. A harmonious blend of history, geological wonder, and cultural richness, […]
Read more
Devil’s Tower (SV), known as Bear Lodge by many Native American tribes, is a striking geological feature located in the Black Hills of northeastern Wyoming, USA. It rises dramatically with its sheer rock faces and distinctive columnar formations, making it a prominent and unmistakable landmark. Devil’s Tower is a United States National Monument, established in […]
Read more
Saturnia Hot Springs (SV) is located in the Maremma area of Tuscany, a region in central Italy. Specifically, it is situated in the municipality of Manciano, in the province of Grosseto. This area is known for its picturesque landscapes, encompassing rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and the Tyrrhenian coastline. Today, Saturnia Hot Springs is a […]
Read more
Borobudur Temple (SV), located in Central Java, Indonesia, is one of the most significant Buddhist monuments in the world. Its history and architectural design are both fascinating and intricate. Imagine a structure from the 8th and 9th centuries, nestled in the lush landscapes of Java. This is Borobudur, one of the most significant Buddhist monuments […]
Read more
Our first visit to Lake Havasu was not the typical desert heat days jumping from boat to water just to stay cool. It also was not the typical traffic and summer crowds and parties. But what it was – a winter wonderland. My wife Lourdes and I took a last-minute vacation to the London Bridge […]
Read more
Punta Gorda is a small, picturesque city in Charlotte County, Florida, known for its beautiful waterfront views, historic district with Victorian-styled buildings, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and a popular destination for boating, fishing, and enjoying the pleasant Floridian climate. Punta Gorda shares some of the ecological and environmental characteristics that are typical of the […]
Read more
Nestled along the Pacific coastline in Southern California, the Carlsbad Flower Fields present a vibrant mosaic of colors that stretch across 50 acres. This breathtaking spectacle, which attracts visitors from around the globe, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century, intertwining with the development of the region and the vision […]
Read more
A Memorable Journey Through the Heart of America Oksana® Kolesnikova, is an internationally renowned pianist and composer, educator, innovative music and language curriculum developer Boston is the cradle of American history, a city teeming with colonial charm, academic prestige, and vibrant energy. As I embarked on this exciting journey, I had high expectations for what […]
Read more
As part of our Time Traveler series, we bring past stories to life with new experiences. As very young boy, Michael Castello met and once preformed with The Mighty Atom when the strongman was in his 70s. His life story is once again rising in a new age of natural body enhancement and mental focus. […]
Read more
Summer In Catalina Island – A Californian Vacation Blue waves with underwater worlds, charming European-esque hills, and an enchanting clock tower that rings on every hour are few of the many wonders of this quaint and beautiful island. Summertime in Catalina is all the hype. I fell in love after my first trip during Wintertime. […]
Read more
As part of our Time Traveler series, we bring past stories to life with new experiences. In this article we venture to Al Maghtas the site of Jesus’ Baptism. A Landmark of Faith Al-Maghtas, a site steeped in spiritual importance and historical significance, holds a special place in the hearts of billions of people around […]
Read more
The Rose Parade is one of the most iconic events in the United States. It is held annually on, or just after, New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California and features elaborate floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. After a couple years of being canceled because of the COVID Pandemic, the 2023 Tournament of Roses Parade […]
Read more
As part of our Time Traveler series, we bring past stories to life with new experiences. Michael Castello worked at The Breakers Hotel as a teenager, and came back decades later to experience this landmark as a time traveler. ou are greeted at the The Breakers entrance with a long procession of royal palms which […]
Read more
SANTA CRUZ – There is a lot of beauty in this part of central California which is just south of San Francisco and part of the Monterey Bay. My travels to Santa Cruz were directed by my searching for an apartment for my son Jonathan who left NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in search of completing […]
Read more
Pebble Beach is one of the most scenic areas in America. It needs no introduction to visitors and golfers alike. The Pebble Beach Company’s 17 miles along the Monterey coast host some of the best golf courses in the world. The Pebble Beach course is a must play for any golfer, and a stay at […]
Read more
Crowne Plaza Orlando – Lake Buena Vista It was my first time in Orlando and also my first time to Disney World. Our next stop would be Miami Beach, where it is stupid expensive, so I wanted to save as much as possible on our hotel near Disney World. After many, many hours and days […]
Read more
Why You Shouldn’t Fly Aer Lingus I’m not one to dedicate a whole article completely trashing a company or business, but, in my view, it is truly unfortunate the money I lost dealing with Aer Lingus. Let’s just cut straight to the story time. * At the end of my story time I post other […]
Read more
Tierra Rejada Golf Club is located in Moorpark and nestled in the foothills of eastern Ventura County. Nationally renowned architect Robert E. Cupp created this par 72 masterpiece of playability. The scenery here is probably one of the best views in all California which is saying a lot. Many who live in the area call […]
Read more
Elmer’s Restaurant -Palm Springs Elmer’s Restaurant is a Palm Springs favorite loved by locals since 1960. No matter the new shiny restaurants that pop up in Palm Springs, Elmer’s is one with the community. The loyalty from customers is inspiring and Elmer’s wears it proudly. You will notice in Elmer’s the faces of the community […]
Read more
Spencer’s Restaurant – Palm Springs Spencer’s Restaurant is the most magical, beautiful spot to have a romantic date in Palm Springs. With big fairytale like trees outside with balls of twinkling light hanging from them, it creates the sort of feel that you’re in an enchanted forest. Will you see Hansel and Gretel? Maybe […]
Read more
Magic Carpets, Flying Ships, and Moonlit Kingdoms. The True Travel Stories of Marci Darling. Meet Marci Darling. Professional Belly Dancer, Circus Acrobat, Preschool Teacher, and World Traveler (and so much more). She has lived a fantastic, adventurous life that has filled her with so many amazing moments and cherished memories that she decided to jot […]
Read more
Road Trip To St George, Utah I’m back in Utah!! And if you know me, you know it’s one of my favorite states. This time, I took a road trip to St. George. St. George is in the SouthWest part of Utah. It’s only 1 hour and 45 minutes from Las Vegas, and while it’s […]
Read more
Eight4Nine – Pretty In Pink Palm Springs Restaurant This Palm Springs Restaurant & Lounge is Pink. And not in the bubblegum, barbie toy house kind of pink. But the elegant, chic, artsy kind of pink. Eight4Nine is gorgeous and I couldn’t get enough of it. Walking up to Eight4Nine is grand. The white stairs leading […]
Read more
There’s so much to do in Los Angeles. It’s hard to know where to start. What vibes are you going for? Party? Touristy? Outdoorsy? I am gonna run you through my one fun day in LA. My boyfriend Andrew finally had a day off of work and we wanted to do something fun! What To […]
Read more
My 3 Day Itinerary in NYC HELLO New YORK! New York City is one of my favorite cities- the vibe being unmatched. It had been four (4) whole years since I went last, and I finally got the opportunity to go again for a weekend this June (and this time over 21, so the experience […]
Read more
Bâtard in New York City This Lower Manhattan restaurant is simply elegant. Bâtard’s simplicity and minimal décor is in fact more beautiful than you would expect. The walls are golden yellow that glow with lights and really is the staple look of Bâtard. Small, detailed white vines with leaves trail the walls which is a […]
Read more
Jessica Castello travelogue visiting Hotel Chantelle in New York City with friends.
Read more
Loulou Petit Bistro In New York City I absolutely fell in love with this adorable bistro in Chelsea. One picture of a cocktail they offer and I was immediately sold. I only had a few days in New York City and I made sure Loulou was on my list. In fact. Loulou was my first […]
Read more
The Best Way to Celebrate New Years Sydney, Australia is known to have the BEST fireworks, and to be the best place to celebrate. Hands down they have the best New Years show. Fireworks shoot out from so many different places at the Harbor. The opera house, the bridge, nearby buildings, and, well, if there’s […]
Read more
The Ultimate Miami Beach Guide The Mother of all Miami Beach Guide articles. I did all the research for you, I found all the best spots. Forget all the other articles of “Top 10 Restaurants in Miami Beach” or others of the like. There’s usually only like, one good restaurant worth seeing in those articles. […]
Read more
The Cadillac Hotel in Miami Beach There are so many places to stay in Miami Beach. It’s overwhelming trying to choose the perfect place for your perfect vacation! I went hunting and went through so many hotels. It was a process and honestly took me a couple months. But I landed on the Cadillac Hotel […]
Read more
Oceanic – A Beautiful Pompano Beach Restaurant Just an hour from Miami Beach, 15 minutes from Ft Lauderdale, and 4o minutes from West Palm Beach, lies little gem of a restaurant in the cutest town called Pompano Beach. It’s right next to the pier, so after lunch you can head over for a nice stroll […]
Read more
The Social Club was one of the best brunches I had while in Miami Beach. Bottomless mimosas everyday, delicious donuts and cookies, and might I add, the best breakfast potatoes. Located at the Surfcomber Hotel in South Beach Miami, it is centered right in the middle of everything. So many cute shops, clubs, and cafes […]
Read more
Dear Diary, I Fell In Love With Paris. I fell In Love With Paris. We met at 10am. A partially cloudy day. I was standing above the train station with my suitcase in my hand, standing next to my best friend. We were taking all of it in. Paris. It truly felt like a dream. […]
Read more
Yamashiro Hollywood is gorgeous. This outstanding Japanese restaurant is located in a prime spot in Hollywood Hills. Dine outside their walls for stunning views and dazzling ambiance. Dine inside their walls and eat alongside their gardens and koi pond, with an open roof. They play old school music such as Frank Sinatra. The vibes are […]
Read more
Meet the Palm Springs Oasis: Seven Sisters Falls We all know Palm Springs can get extremely hot. In springtime it’s hitting 90 degrees, in summertime its getting up to 120. Our vacation spent there is usually planned around the pool. But I know a place with a waterfall, surrounded by palm trees and creeks, for […]
Read more
Just around the corner from the infamous Rodeo Drive, The Terrace at the Maybourne Hotel will be the cherry on top of your day of luxury. For starters, the exterior is grand. The tall arches and pillars make you feel like you are dining in a royal palace. The fountain is lovely to look at […]
Read more
My Review Of The Saguaro Hotel in Palm Springs The Saguaro Hotel is a very popular stay for guests looking for a fun, trendy place to stay in Palm Springs. The pictures of the pool next to the hotel’s colorful walls will be enough for you to book your room. It is said to be […]
Read more
Palm Springs Fashion is all about color. Vibrant and bold and all mixed together. It is such a pretty city, and it’s what I love most about it. The colors. I knew when planning my trip I would want to match the vibes of Palm Springs by adding as much color as I could to […]
Read more
London has the best nightlife. The best clubs, the best bars, each unique and different from the other. Coming from Hollywood where we have our own amazing nightlife, I really cannot compare it to anything I’ve been to in London. During my time there, these were the 3 coolest bars in London. Ballie Ballerson – […]
Read more
My Utah Road Trip 9 months in quarantine. March 2020 to December 2020. Stuck in California. I must admit, not a bad place to be stuck in. But as someone who likes to travel, I was feeling sad and wanted really badly to go somewhere new, but also do it safely amidst Covid. Turns out, […]
Read more
Where Luxury Meets Star Power There are evenings that feel special—and then there are nights that feel like a scene straight out of a movie. Our recent stay at the Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills was exactly that: an unforgettable blend of elegance, celebration, and a touch of Hollywood magic. The occasion? A prestigious […]
Read more
Margaritaville Palm Springs You’re tired from traveling all day, a little smelly, and incredibly thirsty. But not for water, for something different. Something with a twist of a lime. Something that really lets you know you’ve finally arrived. A Margarita. Oh yes. Your eyes focus on the word in front of you. Margarita..ville? Margaritaville. A […]
Read more
Walking up to The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club after 25 years brought an unexpected flood of memories. The Mediterranean Revival architecture still rises majestically from Tampa Bay’s waterfront, its coral-hued facade catching the Florida sun exactly as it did on our wedding night in 2000. My husband and I had chosen this iconic “Pink […]
Read more
As a longtime resident of Santa Clarita, CA, and an avid cigar smoker, finding a cigar lounge that feels like home has been a persistent challenge. That is, however, until I stumbled into Genuine Cigars in Valencia, CA. Genuine Cigars Upon entering the store, the first thing I noticed was the rich aroma of what […]
Read more