I offer two versions of our first traveling day to share the lesson I learned about attitude. We will encounter many unexpected hurdles this year. I am choosing RIGHT NOW to approach each challenge with a positive outlook.
The Noise of Clutter and Choice
It's getting quieter in this apartment, as we approach our move-out date. With less stuff, there is less choice. With less choice, there is less noise in my head.
Zen in a Glass of Wine: Rioja Valley, Spain
In Rioja Valley, wine is a religion and I had come to be baptized…
Brief History of Oktoberfest in Munich, 1810
Did you know that Oktoberfest actually starts in September? Don your dirndl or lederhosen and join the locals for the kickoff parade! This post puts Oktoberfest in its historical context and points out a few traditions and foods you don’t want to miss…
Top 10 Fears as We Embark on our RTW
Our plan is starting to materialize and I find us wavering between moments of absolute certainty and times of doubt. Preparing for my future look-back, here are the top fears I have at T minus 100 days from initial departure...
Destination Everywhere
We are now "vagabonding", I believe is the term. It's a big change for us, with lots of unknowns. I don't know the arc of this story, yet, and I do not know how our characters will struggle, adapt, change. But I do know one thing: this chapter will be different from the previous 20 years...
Travel is ZEN
When I travel, I attain a sudden wellspring of patience and tolerance and humility that escapes me on the gerbil wheel of the daily grind. This short story explains the title of Travel Is Zen.
Travel is ZEN.
Guernica: Never Forget
In Guernica, we confronted the atrocities of war, civic violence, and the fragility of democracy. We, the people, must never forget…
Serendipity in Getxo
What was meant to be a short stroll in Getxo became, instead, a 13 mile surrender to serendipity.
Wine as Meditation: Rioja Valley, Spain
Through the patient teaching of our local wine expert, Inma (from Rioja Wine Trips), we learn that sipping wine is a meditation…
San Sebastian and Hondarribia
Rise and shine in San Sebastian and Hondarribia, on the northern tip of Spain. In the off-season, these party towns are calm and quiet…
Photo Inspiration: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Photo Inspiration: San Juan de Gaztelugatxe
Photo Inspiration: Zumaia and Getaria
Photo Inspiration: Zumaia and Getaria
Road Trip Along a Portion of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way
The West Coast of Ireland is famous for its dramatic cliffs, rocky shorelines, and massive wave action!
Road Trip from Athlone to Ireland's East Coast
Wicklow National Park is about an hour south of Dublin and the location of several commercial films, including Braveheart and Excalibur.
Ireland's Lovely Athlone!
If you like rainbows, castles, ancient Irish pubs, and friendly people, then Athlone has got it all!
Arizona: Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride
You know it's on your bucket list! When in Phoenix, a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert is a terrific way to learn about the desert
Rosario Islands, Colombia
Rosario Islands National Park is probably among the most beautiful places of which you have never heard.
Cartagena (Old City)
The Old City lies on the outskirts of Cartagena's urban center.
Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is where you will find iconic turquoise blue Caribbean waters in Bolivar Colombia.