London

London; A City With A Past

The Heartbeat of Europe is, without a doubt, none other than exciting London. Filled with history, this beautiful metropolis is a solid square mile, dubbing it The Square Mile by locals. You don’t have to spend much time here getting your sight-seeing done. On every corner of every street is a story, most much older than the United States. Many of the wonders of the city are in movies and television shows all the time, but the real majesty of the city gets absorbed through the cobblestone ground under your feet.

High above the busy streets of London soars the London Eye. The most unique Ferris wheel you will have the pleasure of riding, this tourist attraction takes you hundreds of feet over London in a room that looks out over the River Thames. The view is exquisite and the memories you take away last a lifetime.

You may have heard that the Queen’s Guard are very serious and all that, but did you know that they will shout at you if you get in their way? Quite the amusing experience if you happen to witness it. Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London are close by and you can take a tour of them both. The Tower of London has a rather dark past, but you get to see the crown jewels and walk amongst some of Britain’s most thrilling history.

The food in London is sublime. With so many choices to choose from, it is quite difficult to pick a favorite, but the thought is that you must hit as many as you can before you leave. So eat up.

In every great city, there is a famous park. In London, this is Hyde Park. In this picturesque botanical wonder hides Speaker’s Corner. A place of freedom of speech without persecution, it is a must see. Go and soak up a bit of profanity, or get into a debate about Thatcher. All in good fun, of course. Also, there is a beautiful Memorial Fountain for Princess Diana at which you can pay your respects. If you like riding horses, there is also a horse riding area with trails around the park. There is truly something for everyone here.

In every nook and cranny in the city, someone famous (or infamous) has an homage (usually a sign) to their presence.  You walk down the streets on the shoulders of Dickens, Churchill, Shakespeare and King George VI. Their spirits guide you down pathways and share their history in ways no tour guide could express. Walk down Abbey Road with The Beatles. Smell the flowers of Kensington Garden with Peter Pan. Take this city and make it part of your soul. The memories the streets carry give London a truly unique experience for any traveler. 

Belize

Ambergris Caye, Belize; Island Hopping at Its Best

Hiding along the southern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is exotic Belize! This gorgeous country lies in Central America, and is home to some of the more exciting terrain in the southern Hemisphere. Proof of this can be found along the Eastern coast of Belize; on the island of Ambergris Caye.

Island life in the southern hemisphere is a world all its own; with Mayan ruins, a barrier reef and a ton of wildlife nearby, you can’t go wrong. This charming archipelago is a definite vacation spot that needs to be on everyone’s list.

Swimming, sailing, and whale watching abound, this island is chock full of fun things to do. Scuba diving is one of the most exciting adventures here, because the Lighthouse Reef is close by. Take a short class and leap into the water to get an experience you will never forget! There are also incredible opportunities to swim with dolphins and manta rays.

About 50 miles north of the island is The Great Blue Hole at Lighthouse Reef. Truly one of the more spectacular sights on the planet, the 407 foot deep sinkhole makes you feel like you’re looking into the soul of the Earth. This natural wonder is discoverable by boat, or for the more daring, a helicopter tour! It’s definitely not to be missed!

Back on the island, the locals have cooked up some island fare that draws crowds from all over. The Hidden Treasure restaurant is exactly as its title suggests. The ambience is stunning with golden lights draping over a rustic wooden atmosphere. The food is outstanding, with Caribbean dishes and tons of seafood to choose from, this dining experience will be worth your stay. Delices de France is billed as the best food on the island. A French bistro in Central America hardly seems appropriate, but the food is straight off the streets of Marseille. Along with these, there are plenty of Italian, American, and Latin spots to choose from. You won’t go hungry.

Belize is exciting in itself, but there is definitely something to be said for the islands surrounding some of the vacation destinations that are more popular for tourists. Never doubt the archipelago of the world. 

Curacao

Curacao; An Island Paradise

In the southern Caribbean Sea lies Curacao. One of the best kept travel secrets of island life, this beautiful escape takes you on a journey through culture and authenticity unmatched by its sister islands. With less tourist traffic, Curacao offers a more relaxed vacation with all the amenities of the more populated stays.

Christoffel National Park is the island’s most popular tourist destination. Home to the highest point on the land, the hiking and tours are something to see. The park closes early to offer a guided sunset tour that wildly enhances the beauty of our celestial surroundings. Few places around the world have this charisma and character.

Two beaches on the island allow you to wade into the crystal-clear waters and feel the sand between your toes. The island has rocky and sandy wading so water shoes may be needed!  

One of the newer attractions is The Amazonia Tour. Going back to its Mayan and native roots, this tour takes you on a journey through the past and introduces you to a strong influence in the present. The temple ruins and pyramids will transport you to a time when civilization was much simpler. This unique experience is both museum and zoo, taking you several places and periods in time at once.

A trip to Curacao sets the stage for some truly wonderful dining experiences. Korral Curacao is an open-air sushi bar under a huge umbrella hut. Across the island sits Déjà Vu, a rustic French bistro inspired restaurant with tons of island fare and charming ambiance. Maybe you’re into vino? There are tons of wineries and wine bars on the island, gathering the plentiful Caribbean flavor with the robust tastes of the world. Whatever the flavor you crave or mood you are in, Curacao has a dining experience for you.

When you need to escape, but don’t want the hustle and bustle of the Nassau or Turks and Caicos, Curacao is there to quench your island thirst. Get moving.

Ireland

Erin Go Bragh

Deep in Northern Europe, the vast beauty of Ireland awaits. From the beauty and rich history of Dublin to the outskirts of Killarney, this country is the place to spend a week or two. If all you know of Ireland is leprechaun lore, you’re missing out.

Among the myriad of museums, lies the heart of some of the most beautiful scenery the earth has to offer. Night kayaking, cycling excursions, and whale watching are just a few of the physical pursuits you can enjoy with your family. There are also miles upon miles of National Parks, hiking trails and sunsets and sunrises that will ease your troubles and pull the breath from your lungs.

Irish food is merely sampled in our American tradition. Corned beef and cabbage isn’t even the tip of the iceberg. The “Tayto Crisp Sandwich” is an Irish staple food. The Journalist on the Run has this to say, “A Tatyo crips sandwich is an institution in Ireland and no trip here would be complete without making one for yourself. All you need is 2 slices of bread, some butter and a packet of cheese and onion crisps. Some call it ‘survival food’, I call it heaven.” (journalistontherun.com) It sounds like a drab, plain snack, but When in Rome, right? You won’t be sorry.  Beyond that, the delectable tastes of this incredible country will knock your socks off and have you running for your camera at every meal.

Arguably the most famous attraction in Ireland is the Blarney Stone. Said to be good luck, “It is believed that whoever kisses the stone is endowed with the gift of gab, great eloquence, or the skill at flattery. It allows the gifted to impart the ability to deceive without offending.” (technogypsie.com) The journey to the stone is not simple, however. Once at the attraction, the visitor is held upside down so they may kiss the stone, which is a little ways down a chasm. The daring who wish to carry its luck with them, have to really trust the “Castle Guards” at the attraction to do this. It’s truly a wonderful experience.

For the Star Wars enthusiast, the filming for Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi was set on the shores of Ireland. The beautiful seas and vast peaks and cliffs were perfect for the dramatic scenery needed to effectively tell the VIII’s story. You can take tours of the various filming sites and fill your camera with all the wonders of the Star Wars universe!

Finally, one of the most beautiful sights in this cultural nerve center is watching the Northern Lights. An enigma in themselves, they only appear every once in a while, but it is worth it just to take a chance. The lights have only been visible in the past few years, hailing a number of professional observers and amateur photographers alike.

As you can see, Ireland is truly a rare gem and a trip that should be on everyone’s “must see” list. 

New York City

The City That Never Sleeps

There is a reason New York City shows up in so many movies. The atmosphere, fast pace, and sight seeing are idyllic for any vacation. The city has a heartbeat all its own, vibrating and moving in a way that no other can quite match. Whether you want Chow Mein at 5am or a hot Italian sausage at noon, this is the city where it all happens.

New York City is made up of 5 boroughs: Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, and Brooklyn. Each borough has its own flavor and history. Manhattan is the most popular, with the shops on 5^th avenue as NYC’s biggest pull during the holiday season. Go ice skating in Rockefeller Center, get lost in Central Park, or for the more macabre traveler, visit the spot John Lennon was shot. In this city, the possibilities are endless.

One of NYC’s biggest attractions is Broadway! With so many amazing shows available, there is something for everyone and within any budget. Follow the show with the world famous Sardi’s, where almost every major Broadway star has been. You can take in a movie at one of the art theaters, which show classics like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Afterward, you can have the greatest dim sum you could ever eat stateside in Chinatown. 

Are you a foodie? You have never eaten better. New York City is home to some of the most amazing food you have ever tasted. Celebrity Chefs, cooking shows, and world travelers have all given their many recommendations to this amazing spread. Have one of America’s best cookies (dubbed by many magazines and websites) at Levain Bakery (167 W 74^th St). Serendipity 3 (225 E 60th St) is home to the famous Frozen Hot Chocolate and other delicious concoctions brought to you in a chalice fit for 5 people. With this and so many more, your palate will never be more satisfied.

Among some of the greatest sightseeing attractions in the states, NYC is home to the Statue of Liberty. Just walking up to this majestic statue is enough to take your breath away. If you’re lucky, you can take the staircase to the top and look out at the world through this historic landmark. Along with Lady Liberty, you can visit Ellis Island, where so many thousands of immigrants traveled through for a chance at a new life.  Maybe you could catch a glimpse of the past as you walk the marble hallways.

Whatever your tastes, New York has something for everyone. Bring the family, your love, or go by yourself. You won’t be sorry.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan: Leave the City for a Fascinating Day Trip

Like most of Mexico, Mazatlan is a place of natural splendors and inviting destinations. There is a lot to see and do in the city of Mazatlan, but for a real treat, take a day trip outside the city to make your vacation complete.

Mexico seems to be blessed with nature’s beauty, and the area around Mazatlan is no exception. Teacapan is a town that is perfect for those who admire nature. Bird watchers can take a guided boat tour to view the local birds. Nearby, the fishing town of Escuinapa offers pink herons, ocelots, and deer nestled in a natural habitat.

Want some physical activity to take your breath away? You will find a variety of things to do outside of the city. See the area from a bird’s eye view, as you zipline through the air over the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The Stone Island Peninsula (it really is a peninsula) can be accessed by boat, and once there, you can kayak, catch a wagon ride, or try horseback riding. And to cool off, there are always sandy beaches to be enjoyed.

Mining is an important part of Mazatlan’s past, and visitors can see mines and mining towns just outside of Mazatlan. The town of Copala mined as far back as the 1500’s. The mining town of El Quelite even has a site that was once a trading post for miners.

Besides mining, there are more historic and other sites in the region. Magnificent architecture, museums, and markets can be found. Many western movies have been filmed in this area, and a movie studio is still in operation. For thrills and transportation, visitors can pass over the world’s highest suspension bridge, the Baluarte Bridge.

Looking for some fun in the sun? The Mazatlan area won’t disappoint you. Just off the coast is Deer Island, where swimming and lounging can be enjoyed in a much less crowded atmosphere than many beaches on the mainland. Visitors can catch a boat to Deer Island and start a fun-filled day snorkeling, kayaking, or playing sports on the beach.

Make your Mexican vacation something special, and take a day trip outside the city of Mazatlan to enjoy history and nature. Or use this time off the beaten path to rest and enjoy the refreshing beaches. Whatever you decide to do, the area is sure to please.

El Salvador

El Salvador; Safe for Travel, and a Wonder to See

El Salvador has many faces for such a small country. One view of this beautiful Central American country has us thinking of tranquil beaches contrasted with active volcanos, creating a picture of nature’s paradise. But another view of El Salvador may make us think of gang violence, drug cartels, and murder in high numbers. But we may want to think twice before making too harsh a judgment, and give El Salvador a chance as a refreshing vacation destination.

In the past, El Salvador has earned a reputation as a violent country. In fact, in 2015, The Guardian claimed El Salvador to be “the world’s most homicidal country.” But that is not the case anymore, as El Salvador is more than just news columns and statistics, and now sees itself as a country of tourism. The people of EL Salvador love their country, and love sharing it with visitors. Plus, with tourism in El Salvador on the rise, the country is well aware that they must provide a safe environment for their guests.

With its breath-taking landscape, traditional culture, and delicious food, El Salvador offers visitors many relaxing ways to enjoy the country. The mountainous regions and coastal waves give a sense of diverse topography, but because the country is relatively small (Central America’s smallest country), you can visit all its regions in a very short amount of time. You can surf on the miles of fun-filled beaches, hike on the volcanic mountains, and explore archeological sites, all in one day.

The capital of El Salvador is more than just an historic area. San Salvador has many historic museums and monuments. There are many historic churches, as well, including the Metropolitan Cathedral and Rosario Church. With its creative architecture and famous design, the buildings of San Salvador provide stunning sights. Walking through the streets of San Salvador provides more to see than just man-made buildings, because the back drop of the city shows the dramatic volcanos that surround it.

The volcanos of the country are certainly a sight to behold. Fodors.com recommends hiking through the volcanic mountain area that runs through the middle of the country. But there are other natural wonders to see in El Salvador, including coffee farms, waterfalls, and rain forests. Take some time to enjoy the countryside of this pleasant land.

We should always be aware of potential dangers when we travel, and while El Salvador is no exception, you can be sure this beautiful little country welcomes you with safe, open arms.