Roscoe Village in Coshocton, Ohio

25 March 202518 March 2025

I had recently visited the Ohio River Museum in Marietta, learning about the riverboat transports along the Ohio River, when I decided to make the drive from Cincinnati to the canal town of Roscoe Village. Beautifully preserved, this lovely town tells the story of a simpler life when goods were transported along the Ohio and Erie canals. Red-bricked walkways connect restored buildings that house lively shops, museums and restaurants.

Each year, this historical district offers summer programs where attendees can learn about printing, create a stained glass souvenir and participate in arts and crafts. Each summer Roscoe Village hosts its annual festival where the town comes to life with period actors dressed in the fashion of the 1800s, answering questions about life at the Village. There are several food trucks and activities that Festival draws visitors from all over the state of Ohio and nearby states Their website provides additional information and updates for these services.

I began my tour at the Visitor’s Center where I watched a short, historical video. Browsing around the exhibits (some of the exhibits require a ticket), I learned about the construction of the canals, read about the history of the American Indians that had once lived here and picked up some additional information for nearby businesses.

The town of Roscoe was initially named after its first white settler who arrived from Rhode Island around 1811. James Calder laid out the plans for the town which he named Caldersburgh. He died in 1824.

In 1961, Edward and Frances Montgomery purchased the Toll House at Roscoe Village to restore the building to its original state. They wanted to preserve the town for future visitors to enjoy as a way to preserve its history. Near the Visitor’s Center is a Memorial Garden in memory of Frances who also planted the gardens in the early 1970s. Additional gardens on the property include Weaver’s and Caldersburgh Gardens.

A nearby placard documents Coshocton County’s contribution to the Underground Railroad with several locals assisting fugitives to escape slavery in the South. Prior Foster was instrumental in helping with the cause, offering his home as shelter to fugitives and ensuring their cross at Harbaugh Corner so that they could obtain their freedom.

Roscoe Village has a living history program and during my visit, the Blacksmith happened to be working in the shop, called the “Village Smithy”. Next door is the Hay Craft and Learning Center where visitors can learn to make brooms and tour a print shop.

Along the cobblestone sidewalks are boutique shops with unique gifts, products from Ohio and food items. I picked up a few dip mixes, salsas and a shelf that would look great in my living room. The Visitor’s Center was located on the second floor, so I picked up a few additional ideas for my weekend in Coshocton County.

On the main street, there were additional shops, restaurants, the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum, Montgomery Hall and the Toll House. Located inside of the 1840 Jacob Welsh House is the Living History Tour documenting the restoration of Roscoe Village.

Historical photos are displayed on several walls to show Roscoe Village prior to its construction updates. Before leaving the museum to board the Monticello III, I made a stop at The Warehouse Steak and Stein for lunch, ordering a chicken sandwich, salad and beer.

Visitors can explore the interactive, outdoor museum with self guided living history tours and engage with local costumed interpreters such as artisans, press operators, doctors and teachers. Continue to experience hands-on activities while strolling the village’s period shops and lively restaurants. With a total of seven historic buildings, guests can explore the town’s 19th century history from 10AM to 4PM.

Over the past 50 years, Roscoe Village has hosted the Apple Butter Stirring Festival on the third weekend of October. Holidays are also an amazing time to visit as Roscoe Village comes to life, celebrating the Christmas Holiday, with carolers, Santa and his elves, beautiful luminaries lining the streets and the traditional tree-lighting ceremonies.

Have you had an opportunity to visit Roscoe Village in Coshocton? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my day trip to Roscoe Village and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Historic Roscoe Village
600 N. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio
Telephone: 800 877 1830

Admission Fee: Free except for nominal fees for some exhibits.
Hours: Roscoe Village Visitor Center is open 7 days a week with Living History Tours from 10AM to 4PM.
Amenities: a museum, gift shop, restrooms, special events and tours
Length of Visit: 2.5 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Plan to shop and don’t miss the opportunity to ride the Monticello III, a canal boat.

Where to Stay:

The Roscoe Boutique Motel
421 S. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio 43812
Telephone: 740 622 8736

Where to Eat:

Warehouse Steak and Stein
400 N. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio 43812
Telephone: 740 622 4001

What to Read:

I Remember Roscoe, by Robert Hull

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

The Eiffel Tower: The Most Visited Attraction in the World

18 March 202527 March 2025

We had just finished dinner at Café de Flore located on Boulevard St-Germain, not far from the Eiffel Tower. David and I decided to take a leisurely walk, strolling along the Seine. Passing the Quai Voltaire and approaching the Musee d’Orsay, we could see the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Within minutes, we stood at the base of the Tower, gazing up towards the complicated latticework and wide arches admiring its sturdy architecture.

Staring in complete awe of Gustave Eiffel’s magnificent design, I recalled that the Parisians were not so accepting of the Tower when it was first erected, some comparing it to the Tower of Babel. Intended as the centerpiece for the 1889 World Exhibition, the tower would also commemorate the centenary celebration of the French Revolution. Completed in just over two years, Gustave Eiffel agreed to finance the tower’s construction in exchange for any financial profits over the first twenty years.

The Eiffel Tower or “La Tour Eiffel” stands 984 feet high and was the tallest building of its time. In addition to its height it was also considered an extraordinary technological advancement.

The Eiffel Tower represented the iron architecture of the Industrial Revolution. Constructed as the colossal entrance for the World’s Fair, it’s unique structure and curvature was simply genius while the open lattice design and exposed iron support beams equalized the wind. According to Gustave Eiffel it was “an expression of mathematical equation and structural phenomena.”

During our visit to Paris, we found ourselves visiting the Eiffel Tower to take in the views during the day and to experience the beauty of the Parisian lights at night. Visitors can access the three floors of the Eiffel Tower by elevator and the first floor by a set of stairs. The first platform is 187 feet above ground where there is the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant as well as family friendly buffets and a gift shop. I dropped off my stamped post cards so that they would be post marked from the “Tour Eiffel”.

When the Eiffel Tower was initially unveiled, the first floor platform showcased a Flemish bar which served Alsatian cuisine, a brasserie and two restaurants, The Brebant, considered a chic French restaurant with a view of the Champ-de-Mar as well as a Russian restaurant on the northeast corner. Each wooden pavilion could seat 500 guests and the kitchens were built on the underside of the platform.

The second platform reaches 377 feet above ground offering extravagant views of the city. In addition, the world renowned Jules Verne Restaurant and shops are located on this floor. David surprised me with reservations at the Jules Verne Restaurant and I could not wait for us to return in a couple of days to experience a luxurious dinner.

The Eiffel Tower was nearing completion by March of 1889 as it soared over nine hundred feet. The elevators were ready to be installed, but the curvature design of the tower posed a challenge. In the end, Eiffel contracted with American Otis Elevator who invented a system that was years ahead of technological advancement. The observation platform, enclosed by glass, would provide visitors an incredible view of Paris on a clear sunny day.

The Universal Exposition of 1889 officially opened on the sixth of May. Exhibits showcased the latest in modern science and technology revealing the advances in electricity, telephone communications and the phonograph. Attendees enjoyed colorful parades, explored replicas of exotic markets, sampled foods from foreign lands and indulged in the customs of countries from every corner of the world. Buffalo Bill introduced Europe to Annie Oakley who thrilled the spectators with her sharp shooting skills and grand tents reenacted the shoot outs of the Wild West. Yet, while attendees were being introduced to such new inventions as popcorn, they would have to wait another two weeks before they could ascend the great tower.

Spectacular views await visitors on the third floor towering 905 feet above ground. From here, one can experience panoramic views of Paris’ city landmarks (such as the capitol building), explore the reconstructed office of Gustave Eiffel and sip on champagne while taking in the panorama. I imagined the experience to be just as exciting as the day the Eiffel Tower opened at the World Exposition. I would have to wait a couple of days to see.

Fast forward to dinner at the Jules Verne Restaurant and as we arrived I felt like a million dollars. An exhilarating feeling overtook me as we rode the elevator up to the second floor. David mentioned that he would not spare any expense to ensure that we enjoyed this moment, and we most certainly did. We each ordered the six-plats meal that included wines that complimented each course, taking our time to savor each bite.

Once we completed our dinner, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to reach the top of the tower and enjoy a glass of champagne. Even at night, the view was spectacular and the perfect ending to our exceptional visit to Paris. We prepared ourselves to leave the Eiffel Tower and made our last stroll looking out over Paris. We took one last look up into the starry night sky and boarded the elevator for our ride back down to the Champs de Mar.

No one could have ever imagined that The Eiffel Tower, scheduled to be dismantled in 1909, would host close to 7 million visitors a year. Once the subject of controversy among Parisians, La Tour Eiffel has become the most visited monument in the world, offering tourists such as David and I the opportunity of a lifetime.

Have you visited the Eiffel Tower in Paris? Did you take the elevator up to the top? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my exciting experience at the Eiffel Tower and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Eiffel Tower
Champ de Mars
5 Avenue Anatole France
75007, Paris, France
Telephone: +33 8 92 70 12 39

Admission: 15.50 Euros all the way to the top; 9 Euros for the first two flights of stairs; 5 Euros to climb the stairs to the first or second level; not covered under the Museum Pass
Hours: Open daily from mid-June to August from 9AM to 1:45AM; last ascent to the top at 11PM; and to lower levels at midnight (elevator or stairs);
Tips: Advanced reservations are highly recommended to eliminate waiting in long lines. Purchase tickets online at www.toureiffel.paris up to three months in advance or by phone at +44 11 23 23. Tickets sell out fast from April through September, so book as soon as possible.

Where to Stay:

Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris
31 Avenue George V
75008, Paris, France
Telephone: 33 1 49 52 70 00

Where to Eat:

Le Jules Verne Restaurant
Avenue Gustave Eiffel
75007, Paris, France
Telephone: 33 1 45 55 61 44

Tips: There is a dress code and reservations book up quickly.

Kusadasi and its Symbols of Peace

29 July 202317 March 2025

Leaving Miletus, I caught a glimpse of a small ruin at the base of a large hill as our tour bus continued its return trip towards the port of Kusadasi, Turkey. The site stood all alone, with no visitors, seeming sad as if it had its own story to tell…yet, tourists passed without notice.

We would have about an hour to explore some of the local sites of Kusadasi, grab a few souvenirs from the shops or have a quick snack prior to embarkation.

Making our return to the port, we noticed signs directing us back to Kusadasi. The name Kusadasi means “bird island“, kus meaning bird and ada meaning island. The locals decided on this name as the island takes on the appearance of a bird’s head when viewed at a certain angle. The locals also refer to Kusadasi as Ada, a shorter version of the name.

Kusadasi has had several names over the years as it has been under the rule of several nations to include the Greeks, Byzantine, Venetians and Genovese. It is believed that John the Baptist and Mary, the Mother of Jesus had made their home in nearby Ephesus.

We made our entrance into Kusadasi, passing through the beautiful port town with its boutique hotels and seaside restaurants. Along the promenade were several monuments as well. One of my favorite statues was that of Neptune/Poseidon, which not only represents the importance of the sea to Kusadasi but demonstrates the earlier influence of the Greek and Romans to this city.

The Kusadasi Monument of Ataturk and Youth located on the waterfront Promenade is a monument that represents peace and hope not only to Kusadasi but to the nation. Designed in honor of Turkey’s first President, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, who governed the country for 15 years until his death in 1938.

Within close proximity to the Ataturk Peace Monument was the Hand of Peace Monument. The hand reaches up from the ground holding in its hands several black birds and a white dove. A short promenade leads out to this beautiful piece of artwork. Benches provide a place of rest to visitors with a perfect view of the cove.

Today, Kusadasi is a popular port for cruise ships as well as a jumping off point for tourists visiting Ephesus. Many of the older houses have been transformed into modern shops, cafes and bars to cater to visitors. Vendors sell souvenirs, clothing and technology from their stalls.

It is a perfect oasis to sample Turkish coffee or sip on their delicious apple tea while enjoying the turquoise waters of this scenic cove. Ferries transport passengers to the Greek island of Samos as private yachts tie up along the marina.

Besides items of tile and apple tea, another popular trinket that tourists can purchase throughout Turkey is the “Evil Eye”. Circular in shape, and presented in different shades of blue, it resembles the shape of an eye and is found on jewelry, key chains and tiles. The locals believe that this symbol will protect them from their bad, evil thoughts.

While our ship was docked in the port of Kusadasi, the island of Guvercin Adasi was off towards the right. The castle-like fortress and city wall had protected the island from invaders for many years and was known as “Pigeon Island”. A causeway connects the mainland to the island providing gorgeous views of Kusadasi and its port. There is also a private beach, a public beach, a café, flower garden and disco for those who want to dance into the morning.

Kusadasi is more than just a port town with so many monuments, attractions and historical sites to explore. A variety of options will keep any visitor busy during their time in port or if they choose to take an afternoon excursion. For more information about the port of Kusadasi, visit the city’s website at http://www.kusadasi.biz/info/guide/must-do.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Kusadasi? What were some of the sites that were of interest to you? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my short port stay in Kusadasi and wishing you many Happy Travels!

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
The Theater of Miletus
The Baths of Miletus

Visiting the Historical Knoxville’s Market Square Farmer’s Market

5 December 202223 September 2024

2016 marked the 225^th year of Knoxville’s Market Square Farmer’s Market and my family happened to be passing through on our way to Gatlinburg. Farmers and vendors from all over East Tennessee have been coming to downtown Knoxville to set up shop at the Market Square, surrounded by fabulous restaurants and interesting boutiques.

From Babalu Restaurant, we walked towards Market Square to visit the Knoxville Farmer’s Market. Located along a long pedestrian mall, it was here, in this very location, where the first market opened for the sale of farm produce. We were curious to see what vendors would be there and what items we could buy.

The square, just over an acre in size, has been a popular meeting place for street musicians and artists since the 1880s. I imagine listening to the music of Duke Ellington or watching the fiddle contests of Frank Murphy back in the 1920s. We watched a guitar and cello duo playing at one of the street corners in front of a furniture shop, Enjoying the talent of these musicians, we stayed for a few songs and dropped off a tip in their instrument cases.

In addition to the vendor’s booths, there were children dancing through the fountains and busy outdoor cafes along the market square. It is a different scene than that of the late 1800s farmers who would pull their wagons up to the Market House. Back then, there was a monthly cost of three dollars for merchants who rented a stall.

After the marketplace opened in January 1854, several shops and venues were built along its outskirts. Among the sites were a grocery, saloon and lumberyard. Over twenty years later, additional services were set up to include a mill, a boarding house, physician and pharmacists offices, more saloons and Peter Kerns’ confections store. Today there are several upscale and casual sidewalk cafes where one can find a seat to enjoy the exciting hustle of the market scene.

On the north end of the square is Knoxville’s City Hall, built in 1868. Just five years earlier, in 1865, this area had been occupied by the Union Army and converted into barracks and storage for ammunition during the Civil War.

By the early 1900s, prohibition closed the saloons, residents began to move out to the suburbs and small businesses began to close, replaced by chain commercial commerce and movie theaters. Eventually, the Market Hall would be replaced by the open-air market in 1960 in hopes of revitalizing the city.

In addition to the traditional stalls of produce, crafts and more, food trucks line the alleys for an expanded option of lunch items, baked goods and delicious local foods. Today, Knoxville’s Farmer’s Market continues the tradition it began 225 years ago, with a modern twist and we loved the time that we spent here.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Knoxville’s Farmer’s Market in Tennessee? What did you buy? Did you eat at one of the restaurants or food trucks? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for exploring the Farmer’s Market with me by reading my blog post. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Market Square Farmer’s Market
Downtown Knoxville, Tennessee

Open every Wednesday (11 AM to 2 PM) and Saturday (9 AM to 2 PM) starting in May through November, the Market is open in the heart of Knoxville.

Where to Stay:

Four Points Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House
1109 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
Telephone: 865 971 4663

Where to Eat:

Babalu’s
412 S. Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
Telephone: 865 329 1002

We ordered Babalu’s signature guacamole, made table side, which was absolutely amazing (secret ingredient? sundried tomatoes!). We decided to share three tapas which included the beef empanadas, three tacos and grilled tenderloin with a teriyaki glaze and we enjoyed our meals.

What to Eat in Knoxville:

Brunch at Bistro on the Bayou
Chicken pot pie
Fried Green Tomatoes
Mac and Cheese
Meatloaf
Tennessee Whiskey

What to Read:

Historic Knoxville: The Curious Visitor’s Guide to Its Stories and Places, by Jack Neely

Photo Guide to Knoxville:

Bike Sculpture
Bridge Sunrise
CityView Sunset from SoKno
Fort Dickerson Quarry
Gay Street
Greetings from Knoxville Postcard Mural
House Mountain
Sunsphere
Tennessee Theater on the corner of Gay Street and Clinch Avenue
A View from the Bluffs

Leaving Istanbul for Bodrum

29 July 202222 September 2024

Our flight departed from Istanbul early in the morning, arriving in Bodrum at 10:30. After collecting our luggage, we waited for the bus to take us to Salim’s house along the coast where we would spend several days before sailing the Greek Islands.

The bus was half full with tourists and residents visiting their second homes. Looking out the window, my eyes were taking in all of the beautiful resorts along the coast. Colorful flowers decorated the rural route where we entered tunnels with exquisite carvings which led to small, populated towns.

Passing by coves, we saw large yachts, small sailboats and the occasional fishing vessel. Occasionally, a community of homes appeared as quaint villages along the Aegean Sea and within forty minutes we had arrived at the entrance to our resort community.

At the secured entrance, we waited for our driver to take us to the house and help us unload our luggage. On our short drive to the house, we decided we would first have lunch and the attendant suggested the cafe where we could order the best pizza in town. We could see the cove where we would be staying and noticed the crystal clear waters, bathing areas and restaurants with outdoor seating.

Our accommodations were conveniently located within walking distance to the beach, pier, restaurants and shopping. The summer home of Salim was two story and surrounded by delicate flowers, large enough to accommodate the six of us.

We immediately unpacked our belongings, grabbed our swimsuits and walked down the hill to the pier where we found the restaurant to enjoy lunch. The stroll in itself was full of jaw-dropping views where whitewashed guesthouses were covered with vibrant blooms. Sitting along the waterfront, we ate fresh watermelon and made-to-order pizzas.

We swam for a couple of hours until it was time to meet up with Salim to discuss dinner plans. We decided to stay in, ordering takeout from a nearby food stall. From Turkish köfte (meatballs) to kebabs, we selected a wide variety of local dishes to sample.

After dinner, we strolled down to the swimming area as the light began to dim. Checking out the sailboats that had arrived to anchor off the shore, we eagerly waited for the sun to set.

We posed for photos, listened to Bruno Mars tunes and fought off sleep in fear of missing out. With what energy we had left, we stopped by the pool and shared bottle of wine before turning in. On the short walk home, we all agreed that we could have never imagined the beauty of Bodrum and reminisced about Ramadan in Istanbul until we just couldn’t stay awake much longer.

Have you had the wonderful opportunity to visit Bodrum, Turkey? Which places did you visit or restaurants did you enjoy? I would love to hear about your recommendations if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my Girl’s Trip to Turkey and wishing you many Happy Travels!

The Turkish Flag

Beautiful Flowers in Bodrum

The Evil Eye – This circular symbol keeps evil thoughts from harming you

Enjoying the Sunset in Bodrum

Catamarans and sailboats in the Bodrum Harbor

Gervasi Vineyard, Canton, Ohio

24 June 202222 September 2024

After spending the morning and early afternoon at Stan Hywet Home and Gardens, I was excited to visit Gervasi Vineyard in the neighboring city of Canton. Located in the heart of town, the entrance of wrought iron and stone welcomed me to a small Italian-like village where I found several fabulous restaurants, a AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel and award winning wines.

I began my tour of Gervasi Vineyard at The Crush House which is located at the back of the property. I was pleasantly surprised by the stylish restaurant and tasting room which was energetic, upbeat and full of conversation.

Not long after I had been seated, Nick, the wine bar expert behind the counter, stopped by to introduce himself and handed me a menu. I told him I was interested in a wine tasting and a small meal to tie me over for dinner. I watched as he efficiently checked on his customers, provided a brief overview of their next wine tasting and delivered their meals so effortlessly.

With so many available wines at Gervasi, I was relieved that they provided a predetermined tasting that coincided with my favorite wines. I wanted to try a mix of the vineyards reds and whites and decided to order the Vintner’s GV Tour, referred to as their “grand tasting experience”.

While the Crush House Burger with Gorgonzola cheese and bacon was tempting, I knew I would be eating in a couple of hours and noticed the Formaggio and Salami Plate. Offering a generous amount of meats and cheese, along with additional condiments, I knew this would be enough to satisfy me until dinner.

The charcuterie plate arrived and the presentation was elegant and inviting. I could smell the tartness of the mustard and the fruitiness of the marmalade. The cheese had a smoky taste and smooth texture paired with the full flavor of the stone grain mustard, they married perfectly with the selection of meats. The combination of prosciutto and blue cheese was super rich, creamy and absolutely delicious.

My first sample of six wines was the Floretto which has a light taste with a little sweetness. I could smell the green bell pepper and taste a hint of lime. The name, Floretto, means “little flower” in Italian and this wine had a nice finish.

Gervasi’s Pinot Grigio, Lucello is a tart wine and very acidic with the flavor of green apple. I enjoyed the crisp, clean taste of this wine.

I had just recently begun adding the chardonnay to my selection of wines at home to pair with salty and buttery foods. I enjoyed drinking the Ciao Bella with the cured meats offered with my formaggio and salami plate and decided to purchase a bottle to enjoy at a later date.

Bellina is Gervasi’s white wine that is aged in oak barrels and I enjoyed the wine’s smooth finish. Nick asked if I could detect the flavors of banana and toffee, and I supposed the buttery taste could have been toffee, but I did not recognize the banana.

The Red San Gervasio is the vineyard’s merlot and one of my favorite wine varietals to drink with rich foods, to add to sangrias and to sip through the long winter nights. I liked this wine’s smooth, even texture and taste and knew that it would pair with practically most of the meals I enjoy.

With a little blue cheese left on my plate, I sampled the Nebbiolo which was the perfect combination due to their earthy flavors. The Nebbiolo is perfect with fatty meats such as spicy beef short ribs and has a floral tone of violet.

Nick explained that the vineyard was currently out of their Lascito and Passione wines, which are grown and produced on their estate. I was looking forward to the Barolo as this is one of my favorite Italian wines.

My next wine Abbraccio had won several awards at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition to include 2016 Best in Class and 2016 Double Gold. Abbraccio, meaning “embrace” in Italian, is a full-bodied wine with bold layers of black cherries, black currant and subtle notes of plum.

My wine tasting was complete, but I added a couple of samples before visiting The Bistro, Gervasi Vineyard’s outdoor casual restaurant. I decided on a glass of Barbera, a spectacular red wine and then added a sample of Sognata, the winery’s fabulous dessert wine that tasted like apple juice. This wine won the 2016 Director’s Choice Award for the Best Dessert Wine from Ohio Wines and I purchased a bottle to enjoy as an after dinner drink.

It just so happened that the couple sitting next to me at The Crush was also at the Bistro. I absolutely love that wine brings people together. I had the pleasure of meeting Mike and Cathy who had just started dating within the last six months and we decided to order a drink together before finding a place along the lake. The weather was perfect on this early evening and seats were filling up fast. We placed our orders and enjoyed a few moments of people watching before our meals arrived. The pizzas were spectacular and soon I had to start making the trek back to Columbus with a stop in Mansfield for one last winery for the day.

I had learned earlier that the Gervasi estate grows six acres of their own varietals so I took a moment to walk among the grapes that would soon be ready for harvest. Ripening under the summer’s hot sun, the vines were full of plump fruit and looked as though they were ready to be picked.

I was sad to leave because Gervasi Vineyard is an impressive winery that offers a wide range of services and activities. Conveniently located off of .I-77, the winery is 20 minutes south of Akron. The Crush House is open for both lunch and dinner, seven days a week and provides tours at noon, 1 o’clock and 2. I could have easily spent the day here.

Have you had the opportunity to explore Gervasi Vineyard? I would be happy to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my afternoon at Gervasi Vineyard and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Gervasi Vineyard
1700 55th St. NE
Canton, OH 44721
Telephone: 330 497 1000

Where to Stay:

The Villas at Gervasi Vineyard
1700 55th St. NE
Canton, OH 44721
Telephone: 330 497 1000

Where to Eat:

The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard
1700 55th St. NE
Canton, OH 44721
Telephone: 330 497 1000

I felt as though I was dining at an Italian villa. The food was spectacular and the location superb. I ordered the meat and cheese plate for dinner and enjoyed a wine tasting of Gervasi Vineyard wines.

Books to Read:

Wicked Akron: Tales of Rumrunners, Mobsters and Other Rubber City Rogues, by Kymberli Hagelberg
Lost Akron by Mark J. Price
Goosetown: Reconstructing an Akron Neighborhood by Joyce Dyer
The Rest is History: True Tales from Akron’s Vibrant Past by Mark J. Price
If Looks Could Kill by M. William Phelps
Mafia Cop Killers in Akron: The Gang War Before Prohibition by Mark J. Price
The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier

Photo Guide to Akron/Canton:

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Northside Arts District in Akron
Luigi’s Restaurant at Lock 3 Park
750ml wine bar in Pilgrim Square, recommended by Wine Spectator
Chill Ice Cream for exotic flavors
Blu Jazz Club for its history (performers include Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald)

Gold Mining in Columbia, California

22 April 202222 September 2024

Planning to travel from San Francisco to Yosemite, I was excited to add Columbia State Historic Park to my itinerary. Imagining what it would have been like to live during the Gold Rush of the 1800s, I was looking forward to strolling the streets and exploring its old restored buildings.

Located off of Highway 49 near the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Columbia was once a vibrant town that drew a population of gold seekers in hopes of living the American dream. As I entered this beautifully restored historic district, I found the parking lot off of Broadway Street in close proximity to the park. The first building on my tour was the Fallon Hotel where I picked up Washington Street, a pedestrian only walkway. Following the map, I identified more than 30 buildings that existed during the California Gold Rush remaining on this site today. According to the park’s website, this is the “largest single collection of existing gold rush-era structures in the state”.

What I love about this place is that the structures are used to house various businesses acting as a working town. Unfortunately, I had arrived during the middle of the week in the fall and many of the stores had already closed for the afternoon. There were, however, some of the attractions open such as the blacksmith, an ice cream store, a saloon and a location for panning gold.

I learned from the young girl at the ice cream shop that during the summer this is an extremely busy place where people wear period costumes to re-enact how life would have been like during the Gold Rush. There are horse drawn stage coach rides and the stores and restaurants are open for business.

As I walked along the quiet streets, I came across the Columbia Museum. Unfortunately it was closed as I would have loved to have learned more about the history of this town. In addition to the museum, free tours are provided during season and on Gold Rush Days held on the second Saturday of each month year around.

Saloons were a very important part of the gold mining culture. Usually depicted in western movies as gambling joints and full of promiscuous women, the halls were a place for locals to hang out throughout the day when they took some time away from panning gold.

In 1961, the town of Columbia was declared a National Historic Landmark. Beautifully preserved and well-maintained, this location provides an in-depth look into the lives of gold miners and the hardships that they endured. What is so great about this park is that it is free. and even the guided tours are provided at no charge, so what a great reason to visit. Not to mention the opportunity to pan for gold.

Do you have a favorite historical site in the US? I would love to hear about it if you would kindly leave a comment in the section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Columbia State Historic Park
11255 Jackson Street
Columbia, CA 95310
Telephone: 209 588 9128

Admission Fee: There is no fee for visiting Columbia State Historic Park.
Hours: Open daily 24 hours but most businesses are open from 10AM to 5PM
Amenities: visitor center, restaurants, shopping, gold mining, hiking, guided tours, historical site, picnic areas, interpretive exhibits, museums, family programs, lodging
Scenic View: This scenic old town offers several great photographic opportunity
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Each month the town hosts “Gold Rush Days” on the second Saturday from 1 – 4PM.

Where to Stay:

Columbia City Hotel
Columbia State Historic Park
22768 Main Street
Columbia, CA 95310
Telephone: 209 588 9128

Where to Eat:

The Nugget Cafe
22758 Parrotts Ferry Road
Columbia, CA 95310

This restaurant is only open for breakfast. I ordered my typical breakfast of eggs, bacon, toast and side of hashbrowns. Great portion sizes and tasty meal.

Old Time Fire Engine, Columbia, California

Gold Mine in Columbia, California

Eagle Cotage at Columbia Historical Site

Columbia Gazette, California

City Hotel, Columbia, California

Bali, Indonesia: Hotel Nirwana and Lovina Beach’s Charm

18 March 202222 September 2024

Although I enjoyed my stay at the Aditya Beach Resort, I wanted to be closer to the town’s center, to interact with the locals and try a restaurant or two. I found a room at the Nirwana Water Garden Hotel, located on the main strip, which was the perfect location for exploring this charming little village.

As soon as I walked onto the resort, I could see a restaurant on the right, the registration desk in front of me and the pool and bungalows to my left. The property is beautifully decorated and I was thrilled to spend a couple of nights here.

I checked into my room where I was greeted by the neighborhood rabbit that lives on the grounds. I stored my belongings and was ready to find a restaurant for dinner and a couple of beers. I passed the pool and was tempted to take a swim, but I was more excited to explore Lovina and walk the beach.

Slowly wandering the streets to take it all in, I admired the colorful artistry of the statues, wood carvings and offering pedestals. It is not uncommon to see monkey-like figures as well as images of elephants which represent the gods of the Hindu. Most of the artwork is connected to Bali’s strong religious beliefs, which has a large influence on its culture.

The craftsmanship of the Balinese woodwork is exquisite and detailed. The three-dimensional carpentry usually tells a story of human enlightenment or the conflict between good and evil. The displayed artwork invoked a sense of spirituality, regardless of one’s beliefs.

As dusk began to fall over the town, the music grew louder from the local bars. I met up with a couple of vendors, purchased a few necklaces and started looking for a place to enjoy dinner. I stopped halfway from my hotel when I noticed the Kakatua Bar & Restaurant, an open air eatery with patio seating.

I took a seat closest to the street and ordered a nice, cold Bintang beer. After looking through the menu, I selected the red snapper as my main course and watched tourists fill the empty seats surrounding me. At first glance, I thought that the name of the restaurant was named after the Indonesian city of Krakatoa, but my server explained that the Kakatua are the resident cockatoos.

It took awhile for my food to arrive, but it gave me some time to people watch, catch up on my journal and eavesdrop on the table beside me. The red snapper was worth the wait and I enjoyed listening to an Australian guitarist sing James Taylor tunes. It was finally sinking in that I was actually in Bali. The past few days have been so busy that I hadn’t appreciated the fact that I had finally arrived in paradise.

I savored every last bite of my meal and after a second beer, I began making the walk back to the hotel. I looked forward to a peaceful night’s sleep, drifting off with a smile on my face, thankful for the opportunity to explore such an amazing place.

Do you have a fun story about traveling to a place that seems so unbelievable you can hardly believe it? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my spectacular trip to Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Dolphin Watching at Lovina Beach

Tickets vary from $15 to $18 and the boats seat up to five or six. If you are staying in Lovina Beach, there is a kiosk on the main street, heading towards the beach on the right hand side. If you are staying in South Bali (Kuta, Jimbaran, etc.), contact the concierge for tickets.

Where to Stay:

Nirwana Water Garden
Lovina Beach Street
Lovina Beach Bali

Nirwana Water Garden is located in the heart of Lovina Beach. It is a 45-minute drive to the dive site of Menjangan Island. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away. The hotel can provide hotel transfers for a fee.

Nirwana Restaurant serves Indonesian specialties, with the option of in-room dining. Guests can enjoy a guided tour to visit the dolphins at Lovina Beach, which can be arranged by the Nirwana’s staff.

Where to Eat:

Kakatua Bar and Restaurant
Jalan Binarea
Lovina Beach Bali

Open 7 days a week and moderately priced; no website; Free WIFI service…just ask for the password.

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

Beautiful Pool at Nirwana Water Garden

Cute Little Images at Nirwana Water Garden

Zigiz, A Club in Lovina Beach

Bintang Indonesian Beer

The Island, Pigeon Forge

28 January 202119 September 2024

The Island at Pigeon Forge is a vibrant entertainment complex with activities, shopping and restaurants. Located on Parkway, the main thoroughfare, our family was ready to end our day watching the sunset and exploring the Island.

The girls were excited for the shopping, the guys were hungry for the restaurants and Nolan couldn’t wait to ride the Ferris wheel. To work up an appetite, we shopped for souvenirs at the Southern Charm Boutique, kitchen goods at the Paula Deen Store and grocery items at the Island Tiki General Store.

Nolan was entertained by the parrots and begged to have his photo taken with him. When the attendant put the bird on his finger, he panicked a little, but finally warmed up to “Reggie” the blue and yellow Macaw. By the time we had collected his photo, Nolan wanted to take Reggie home.

We passed the Ferris Wheel and everyone agreed it would be best if we boarded the ride prior to eating. There was a short line, so we waited about ten minutes as Nolan danced around in excitement. He would later tell us it was his most favorite thing to do on our Tennessee vacation.

We decided on the Mellow Mushroom for dinner, ordering the Buffalo Chicken, the Great White and the Mighty Meaty. With our leftovers in hand, we went in search for dessert. About half of us decided on The Fudgery while the other half couldn’t resist the aroma of Cinnabon. So, with our desserts in hand, we found seats near the fountain and watched the light show until leaving for home.

The Island is a fabulous way to spend an afternoon or evening surrounded by so many attractions and eateries, all for a reasonable price. It was the perfect ending to our busy day of sightseeing.

Have you been to The Island at Pigeon Forge? What were your favorite things to do here? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

What to See and What to Do:

The Island, Pigeon Forge
131 The Island Drive
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Telephone: 865 286 0119

Where to Stay:

We stayed in a rental through VRBO called the Firefly Chalet.

Where to Eat:

Bennett’s Bar-B-Que
2910 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN
Telephone: 865 429 2200

I ordered the Carolina Pork Sandwich and the Salad Bar.

What to Eat:

Barbecue

Ski Trip to Utah: Park City Mountain Resort

12 January 202020 September 2024

Another beautiful day to ski with overcast skis that will soon clear up for a sunny day. While I am a little sore from skiing yesterday, I am more excited to ski Park City Mountain Resort, which hosted the 2002 Olympic Games. I am also excited to meet up with a high school friend whose husband works at the resort and I am looking forward to meeting her two boys.

Leaving the house in Heber City, the view was absolutely spectacular. The snow-capped mountains with their bluish grey highlights seemed at eye’s level as we descended down into town towards the slopes.

This is four-wheel drive weather and we were setting out on steep terrain with lots of hills. The roads were cleared early this morning, so we managed to stay within the tracks of vehicles that had previously made their way down the mountain.

Several majestic homes were set into the side of the mountain where their large picture windows offered spectacular views of peaks which could have been seen for miles.

As we continued on towards Park City, we passed a large lake that had frozen over for the winter. The stillness and solitude of the scenery was soothing as we prepared for another full day of skiing.

We entered the park, picked up our skis and headed towards the slopes. I decided only to ski for a couple of hours, realizing how sore I was from the previous day. My muscles needed a little rest since we were planning on sledding event later that the evening.

Park City Mountain Resort is about a half an hour, 45 minutes from Salt Lake City. The resort opened in 1963 under the name “Treasure Mountain” as it was once an active mining town.

There are shops and restaurants where we rented our skis and a skating rink in the center. We arrived early so it felt as if we had the park all to ourselves. The sun was out as we took a seat on one of the benches to put on our boots.

There are over 3,000 acres of skiing with sixteen chairlifts. It was exciting to think that there were several events that took place in this very spot during the 2002 Olympic Games. Park City Mountain Resort hosted the giant slalom events as well as the snowboarding competition.

I managed to ski the beginner slopes (blue circles) a couple of times to warm up. While skiing, there were other beginners as well as snowboarders, but I knew if I was going to ski the green slopes today, I would need to do it earlier in the day when I was not as tired.

Making my way to the end of the slope, I imagined what it would have been like to have close to 100,000 spectators for the Olympic Games. I am most certain that none of the events were using the blues and greens that I’m skiing, but nonetheless, it was fascinating to think that the best talent in skiing and snowboarding were once here competing.

After skiing the morning hours, I made it to the bottom of my last run and I was ready for lunch. With over 314 trails here at Park City Mountain Resort, I skied only four. I had a few minutes to check out the shops to see if I could find a hat or souvenir of my trip before making my way to the restaurant.

The restaurant was lovely with outdoor seating where we could catch up over a glass of wine. Surrounded by mountains and ski lifts, this picturesque scene also included large bear statues.

After lunch, I joined Dawn’s son for a ride on the alpine roller coaster. Bodi competes on a ski team and is quite talented, ranking high in the polls. He has a great future ahead of him should he choose to continue in his training.

I hated to leave Dawn and the boys but it was time to take the shuttle to a neighboring slope to prepare for our evening of tubing and sledding. I look forward to hearing about Bodi’s success and skiing and hope to visit Park City again.

Where is your favorite place to ski? Have you been to Park City Mountain Resort? I would love to hear about your experience, so leave your comments below! Happy Travels!

Park City Mountain Resort is located at 1345 Lowell Avenue, Park City, Utah 84060. During the ski season, the slopes and ski lifts are open from 9AM to 4PM. Some of the trails are open later for night skiing. For more information about the resort, ski lift tickets and rentals, ski instruction, etc., visit their website at www.parkcitymountain.com.

My friend, Dawn, and her two boys

The Amazing View of Park City from the Slopes

Painted Moose on Skis