Bodrum: Relaxation and Retail Therapy

24 April 20233 May 2025

We slept in late after a long day of travel and enjoying the pier for a swim and some sunbathing. It was looking as though we would have another perfect day to spend on the water at our resort home in Bodrum. We ate a hearty breakfast and then strolled the ten minute walk where we found some chairs and umbrellas to protect us from the hot sun.

We set out our belongings and carefully eased into the water from the ladder on the pier. We floated, swam and failed to improve our artistic swimming skills, though we did try. We took to the Aegean Sea which was crystal clear. Some of us snorkeled, while others went back to sunbathing. We couldn’t seem to stay out of the water for long and eventually worked up an appetite.

We had lunch at the outdoor restaurant and decided to take a walk through the maze of streets within the community. Houses of brick and stone were built along steep cliffs with gardens of tropical flowers as well as petunias in flower boxes and hanging baskets.

What I found most intriguing as we passed each of the homes was that they were decorated with a symbol that resembled an eye. I had first seen it in Istanbul on key chains and jewelry, but hadn’t taken much notice until it began appearing on street number signs and embedded in walkways and doorframes.

The Nazar Boncuk, or “Evil Eye”, is said to protect a person from an evil glare. The superstition dates back to the ancient Greeks who believed that receiving the malevolent stare would cause injury or misfortune. Since the look could take place even when the innocent person is unaware, there was a need to protect oneself from this supernatural force. The Nazar Boncuk reflects off the bad energy back onto the person who is inflicting the negativity towards another. This symbol is often hung throughout homes, offices and cars in the form of jewelry or ornaments.

We returned back to the house to take a car into the casual town of Bodrum. We started out strolling the streets, looking at menus along the way in search of seafood. In Turkey, most families will dine late at night for their final meal of the day, even as late as 10PM. Since we had plenty of time to explore the town, we got lost along the bustling maze. Beautiful homes hung to the cliffs, many whitewashed with clay-tiled roofs and accented with colorful bougainvillea.

After dining at Onikon Beach and Restaurant, we decided to shop for clothes and souvenirs. The shopping district was full of unique gifts and familiar boutiques. From inexpensive Turkish lanterns to luxurious carpets and towels, there were so many great products to purchase. I had such a difficult time choosing which items to buy, so I selected several: Turkish Delight, ceramic bowls, Evil Eye pendants and Raki.

With our hands full and wallets growing smaller, we were ready to head back home for a quick dip in the pool and another day to explore Bodrum.

Have you visited Bodrum, Turkey along the coast? I would love to hear about the places you visited, restaurants where you dined and shops that you absolutely loved if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing adventure in Bodrum and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Explore the seaside shopping area of Bodrum

Where to Stay:

METT Hotels and Beach Resorts, Bodrum
Heramton Cove, Eskicesme Mahallesi
Haramton Sokak, Degirmenler Mevkii
48400 Bodrum City/Mugla, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 316 48 48

Where to Eat:

Onikon Beach and Restaurant
Menemene Yall, Mevkii No 57/A
Turkbuku/Bodrum, Golturkbuku
48400 Turkey

What to Eat:

Fruit: pomegranates, figs, peaches
Kumpir: potato with toppings
Lokmasi: deep-fried dough drenched in honey syrup
Peynirli borek: similar to Greek spanikopita
Sebzeli doner: meat, potato and vegetable skewers
Simit: bread that is between a bagel and pretzel

The Bali Zoo, A Journey Through Photos

25 March 202222 September 2024

Trying to decide what I wanted to do while in Kuta, I learned that I could interact with some of the animals at the Bali Zoo. Hiring an amazing driver for the day, he suggested that we start here and then I could decide if I wanted to attend the Safari Park as well.

The Bali Zoo attracts visitors from all over the world. I was looking forward to seeing some of the unique animals that I may not have a chance to see back home. Here is a photographic account of some of the animals I enjoyed meeting at The Bali Zoo.

Entering the zoo, I was welcomed by white parrots and an opportunity to have my photo taken with them. I quickly made my way towards the lions when I noticed the zookeepers were preparing to feed them.

With raw chickens tethering from a hoisted line, these lions were going to have to work for their lunch.

Once the lions had eaten, the lioness took a relaxing break from the action by resting on the rock.

This tiger had a large area to roam and was pacing back and forth in preparation of eating his afternoon meal.

The Australian wallabies were preparing for their nap while basking in the afternoon sun.

Can you believe the tongue on that sun bear? They use it to extract honey from bee nests.

The orangutan gave us quite a show. He paced back and forth, posing for the cameras.

After taking a ride on this beautiful beast, I fed Budi sugarcane sticks in preparation for his next customer.

While grabbing a bite to eat at the Elephant View Restaurant, I was entertained by the bathing elephants.

I had the opportunity to wrap a bearcat around my neck.

I was a little less excited to hold the crocodile as I watched him become a bit fidgety with the person holding him before me. Was happy to give him back before I lost any body parts!

Look at the paws on this tiger cub! We could have our photo taken with him but was instructed not to touch him. So beautiful!

Indonesia’s native kumodo dragon. This beast could eat a human!

Additional Zoo Photos

The beautiful zoo grounds

Elephant Souvenirs

Majestic Tiger

Frisky Crocodile

The Tiger and White Tiger

The Bali Zoo is in the south of Bali in Gianyar about an hour’s drive from Kuta. They are open from 9AM to 6PM and offer several different packages, elephant rides, animal handling and feeding. There is a night time admission as one of the packages that Bali Zoo offers. Admission price is $28 US for adults and $18 US for children. There are additional fees for the elephant rides and animal feedings. For more information about the zoo, visit their website at http://www.bali-zoo.com/en.

Zoos are wonderful attractions to visit in other countries as well as the United States! Do you have a favorite zoo experience? I would love to hear about it, so leave your comments below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bali Zoo
Jalan Raya Singapadu,
Sukawati, Singapadu,
Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar,
Bali 80582, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 294357

Admission Fee: $28 US for adults and $18 US for children
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM.
Amenities: Animal Interactions, Breakfast with the Orangutan, Elephant Expedition, Dinner with the Great Elephant, Jungle Dinner, Event Rental, Villas and Spa, Photography, Gift Shop, VIP Experience, Restaurants (Wantilan, Wana Lounge and Bar, Gayo Restaurant, Snack Shack)
Scenic View: Spectacular views of local, exotic animals
Length of Time to Visit: Over 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: The traffic in Kuta can be brutal in the morning, so leave early. When the park is busy, expect long lines for the buffet.

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Where to Eat:

Bali Zoo Gayo Restaurant
Jalan Raya Singapadu,
Sukawati, Singapadu,
Sukawati, Kabupaten Gianyar,
Bali 80582, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 294357

Lunch Buffet from 12PM to 2PM.

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 South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Strolling the Island of Key West

13 October 201919 September 2024

The road trip to Key West had finally come to a close as we crossed the bridge into the southernmost part of the United States. After checking into the Huron House, we finally found a parking spot a few blocks away and started our mid-morning exploration of Key West.

Several members of our group wanted to start bar hopping while a few of us wanted to wait at least until the afternoon before a pitstop at Sloppy Joe’s. Splitting up in two groups, the explorers entered the Mel Fisher’s Treasures Store on Duval Street. It was exciting to see first-hand some of the treasures that Mel found from the Atocha. Original coins start at $2465.

We explored t-shirt and souvenir shops set in two-story Victorians and tropical-themed Key West boutiques. We bought Key Lime pies and sampled rum cakes from the West Indies.

Bahama Village is a colorful, revitalized neighborhood that includes a market as well as upscale shopping and lodging. This section of Key West was named for the Bahamians that made The Keys their home and now displays colorful murals and island restaurants.

Located on Duval Street is The Strand. Once a theater that had opened in the 1920s, today, it houses a Walgreens Pharmacy. This location was also a Ripley’s Believe it or Not attraction before 2002 and each business had kept the facade which is a lovely attraction.

We held out until late afternoon to have lunch and agreed on the authentic Sunset Tiki Bar with its Tahitian-inspired decor. I ordered the grouper strips with a dill dip that was absolutely delicious and ordered a Mai Tai served in an Easter Island-esque plastic cup.

After a great meal and our first drink, it was time to meet up with our party half of the group, unsure of what we would be getting ourselves into, but we were ready to find out.

Have you visited Key West? What were your favorite shops, activities, restaurants and bars? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to The Keys and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Mel Fisher’s Treasures
613 Duval Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 295 9555

Open 10AM to 4PM daily.

Don’t forget to stop by the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum located at 200 Greene Street!

Montage Key West Collection – shop has closed

Bahama Village – 16-block neighborhood, a short walk from Old Town.

The Strand (now Walgreens Pharmacy)
527 Duval Street
Key West, FL 33040

Sunset Tiki Bar – Located on the Marina
The Galleon Resort
617 Front Street
Key West, FL 33040
Phone: 305 295 0207

Where to Stay:

Heron House
512 Simonton Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 294 9227

Where to Eat:

Sunset Tiki Bar – Located on the Marina
The Galleon Resort
617 Front Street
Key West, FL 33040
Phone: 305 295 0207

What to Eat:

Ceviche
Conch Fritters
Crab Cakes
Grouper
Lobster
Mahi Mahi
Shrimp

What to Read:

To Have and Have Not, by Ernest Hemingway
Key West, Tequila, a Pinch of Salt and a Quirky Slice of America, by Jon Breakfield
Gumbo Limbo, by Tom Corcoran
Florida Keys Volume 1: A History of the Pioneers, by John Viele

Photo Guide to Key West:

Casa Marina Key West
Charming Houses and Front Porches
Ernest Hemingway Museum
Fort Zachary Taylor
Hens and Roosters
Higgs Beach
The Kapok Tree
Key West Lighthouse
Key West Mural
La Concha Hotel
Marilyn Monroe at Tropic Cinema
Mile Marker 0
Mural at Waterfront Brewery
The Old Pier Behind Casa Marina
Rainbow Walkways at 801 Bourbon Bar
San Carlos Institute
Smathers Beach
Southernmost Beach Cafe
Southernmost House
Southernmost Point Bouy
The Strand

Lazing Around Leland on the Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan

14 May 201918 September 2024

During our family vacation trip to Grand Traverse Bay, I set out on an adventure to explore the Leelanau peninsula, even if I had to go at it alone. I was intrigued by the thought of visiting an authentic fishing village, so I took a day to stroll Leland’s historic district of Fishtown in search of a seaside restaurant to spend the afternoon.

The early morning fog had settled over the harbor and an eerie atmosphere surrounded the shops and restaurants of Leland. Although they had not yet opened, I window shopped this charming village, while following along the wooden boardwalk admiring the interesting boutiques and boats.

The wooden shanties built along the Leland River reminded me of an old Western town on a waterfront. Once home to Native Americans who fished and hunted near Lake Michigan, Leland became a profitable fishing district when European settlers made Fishtown their home in the mid 1800s. In addition to the number of inns, shops and restaurants in the area, longtime business, Carlson’s Fishery has been selling some of the best smoked fish in the state since 1906. One could spend at least a couple of hours exploring the wineries, galleries and attractions before hopping the ferry to nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park.

Diversions is one of the older establishments that has been here over 40 years. With prime location on the docks, this hat shop also sells t-shirts, gifts, clothing, jewelry and sweatshirts.

A popular fishing town with over five generations of fishermen, Fishtown provides charters that will take visitors out to Lake Michigan for the day. The Fish Hook and Reelin’ Leland Fishing Charters are available for a half day or full day of fishing.

For exploring Sleeping Bear Dune’s Manitou Islands, Leland is the starting point to hop aboard the Manitou Island Transit making daily trips from mid-June through Labor Day. They also host shoreline cruises which take place in the evening, providing a great way to explore the Leelanau Peninsula coastline from a different point of view.

There are quite a few activities and attractions to visit in Leland and Fishtown. These towns host several events throughout the year, including the popular Leland Wine and Food Festival in June.

I found the Leelanau Peninsula a beautiful escape from the touristy areas near Traverse City and enjoyed the opportunity to explore some of the most picturesque coastline that Michigan has to offer.

Have you visited Leland and Fishtown? Do you have a favorite place to visit on the Leelanau Peninsula? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my morning in Leland and Fishtown! Wishing you many Happy Travels!!

What to See and What to Do:

Leland and Fishtown are perfect coastal towns for exploring on foot.

Where to Stay:

Leland Lodge
565 Pearl Street
Leland, MI 49654
Telephone: 231 256 9848

On my first visit we rented a house in Traverse City, but I loved Leland so much that I planned a second long weekend trip and stayed at The Leland Lodge, which was absolutely spectacular!

Where to Eat:

The Riverside Inn
302 East River Street
Leland, MI 49654
Telephone: 231 256 9971

On a separate trip from my family vacation, David and I were excited to find a riverside view to have dinner and booked a reservation at the Riverside Inn. There were several unique options, so I started out with the Octopus Carpaccio, while David selected the Socca. Socca is a popular dish in Nice, France that includes chickpea flour crisps topped with caramelized onion, blistered tomatoes, arugula and fresh thyme. It was finished with a creme fraiche and saba (a grape must reduction which was popular in ancient Rome.)

We decided on the Sea Bass which was served over heirloom tomato barley orzoto, lemon beurre blanc, and salsa verde and the Diver Scallops which were seared and served over sauteed spinach with crispy bacon lardons, shallot coconut cream and crispy fried shallots.

We celebrated with a glass of Prosecco and agreed on a bottle of Pinot Blanc from local wine producer, Verterra Winery.

What to Eat:

The Coney Dog from Detroit, Jackson or Flint.
Vernor’s Ginger Ale
Founded in the Upper Peninsula, the pasty is a pastry pocket with fruit filling
Mackinac Island Fudge
Apples
Cherries
Detroit Style Pizza shaped in a rectangle and baked until the edges are crispy.
Better Made Chips from Detroit
Germack Pistachios
Walleye Fish from the Great Lakes
Faygo beverages

What to Read:

Leelanau Trek: One Shoreline/Two Visions, by Ken Scott and Kaye Krapohl
Painting the Magic of Sleeping Bear Country, by Hank Feeley
Edward Beebes’ Historic Leelanau Photographs, by Jack Hobey

Photo Guide to the Leelanau Peninsula and Surrounding Area:

Empire Bluffs Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Pyramid Point, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
M22 road signs
Lake Michigan Lighthouses
Lake Michigan Sunsets

Cruise Ship Shore Excursion in St. Lucia, The Scenic Drive, Part 1

23 April 20184 January 2025

In the harbor, the cruise ship was tucked into a little cove at Pointe Seraphine. We had just arrived in St. Lucia where we were surrounded by sailboats and speed boats. Wanting to see as much of the island as possible, I signed up for a ship’s excursion which included a tour of the island by bus and then a return trip back to the ship by Catamaran. I couldn’t wait to start my day.

I boarded the bus and the journey began in Castries, the island’s capital. The bus was full of passenger as we passed Derek Walcott Square. Our driver explained that we were in the center of town and he pointed out a large samaan tree which is said to be over 400 years old.

As the road continued upwards, there were twists and turns where we caught glimpses of the cruise ship through the trees. Heading south, we passed The 1895 Government House, home to the Governor-General of St. Lucia.

On the winding road towards Soufriere, the bus took a moment for us to stop at Marigot Bay, one of the most beautiful views of the island. There was a lookout with a small shop where we could pick up some water, local food items or a Piton beer made in St. Lucia. We had some time to shop and then reboarded the bus to our next scenic view.

The road descended from the picturesque views of Marigot Bay to the volcanic shores of a local fishing village. Stopping for an opportunity to shop and wander the streets of the town, we decided to venture out onto the pier for a short stroll.

Once a week, the town hosts a fish fry for locals and visitors but it is their celebration of Carnivale for which they are best known. Similar to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, visitors from the surrounding islands arrive in flamboyant costumes and dance in the streets for a week-long party. There are several murals painted on the walls that show elements of the festivities.

According to our tour guide, we had one last stop to take in the million dollar view of the Pitons and to shop for souvenirs. The two peaks, majestically rising out from the ocean, seem to protect the charming little port town below. Our next stop takes us to the Diamond Botanical Garden before boarding the catamaran back to the ship.

Participating in a ship’s shore excursion has its many benefits. Passengers can sit back, relax and take in the scenery while learning about the country from well-educated tour guides. Do you usually take the ship sponsored tours or go on your own? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly provide your story in the comments below. Many thanks for taking the winding roads with us through St. Lucia! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Take a stroll through downtown Castries, St. Lucia to experience the local culture. See the ancient Saaman Tree at Derek Walcott Square, explore the Arts & Crafts Market as well as the Farmer’s Market to purchase cocoa, spices, and local artwork.

Where to Stay:

Windjammer Landing
Labrelotte Bay
PO Box 1504
Castries, St. Lucia
Telephone: 877 522 0722

Reserving a two bedroom villa, I did not want to leave my private pool, but the grounds and accommodations at Windjammer Landing were absolutely gorgeous.

Where to Eat:

Windjammer Landing
Labrelotte Bay
PO Box 1504
Castries, St. Lucia
Telephone: 877 522 0722

Embers at Windjammer Landing was my favorite place to dine for lunch. The pulled pork flatbread was perfectly spiced with jalapeno peppers and pepper jack cheese. I also enjoyed the Ember’s Fish Tacos, with garlic aioli and pineapple salsa.

For an incredible steak and seafood dinner, I highly recommend the local conch chowder and the grilled filet mignon at the Upper Deck Restaurant at the resort.

For a more casual atmosphere and menu, offering salads, soups and burgers, Jammer’s beachside restaurant is the perfect spot for a quick, delicious bite.

To sample some of the local island cuisine, I suggest the Tuesday night Caribbean buffet at Dragonfly which offers a wide selection island flavors from St. Lucian soups to their national dish Green Fig and Salt Fish.

What to Eat:

Boudin – black pudding
Bouyon – beef soup with dumplings but other meats can substitute for beef
Callaloo soup – made with seafood or cuts of meat, okra, potatoes and garlic
Cassava Bread
Cow Heel Soup – a hearty soup with cow foot, carrots, pumpkin, chayote squash and yellow yam with dumplings
Curried Meats
Fried Plantains
Green figs and saltfish
Grilled Fish
Lambi – conch meat seasoned with multiple spices and then fried
Lobster
Pemme – cornmeal, pumpkin, cinnamon, sugar and dry coconut leaves then wrapped in banana leaves
Pepperpot – Caribbean dish made from onion, garlic, cinnamon, brown sugar, thyme, cloves, orange peel, cassareep and meat
Smoked herring and breadfruit – breadfruit is cooked until tender

What to Read:

Omeros, by Derek Walcott
A Room on the Hill, by Garth St. Omer
Don’t Believe It, by Charlie Donlea

Photo Guide for St. Lucia

The Pitons from the Water
The Pitons from the Tet Paul Nature Trail
Sulpher Springs
Toraille Waterfall
Paradise Beach
Honeymoon Beach
Quarry Hill

The Shopping Area in the Harbor, St. Lucia

A Closer Look at the Harbor

The Cruise Ship in the Distance, St. Lucia

Close Up View of Marigot’s Bay

Having a Piton Lager

Piton Beer of St. Lucia

Carnival Cruise Ship in port

The Calabash Tree

Banana Trees

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten Walking Tour

26 March 201817 September 2024

A gorgeous scene awaited us as our cruise ship docked in the port of St. Maarten, the Dutch side of the island. We were met with an overcast sky and light rain, but by the time we finished breakfast, we had a beautiful day ahead of us.

St. Maarten is a working port, so there are container ships and cargo within reach. A short distance from the dock, signs leading into downtown Philipsburg pointed us in the direction of shops and restaurants. We estimated that the one mile walk would take us about thirty minutes into the center of town.

The dock led us through a shopping area where taxis and tour guide drivers waited to take passengers on excursions throughout the island. Continuing through the commercialized center, we decided to walk into Philipsburg for the day to take in the scenery.

Soon we reached a number of leisure boats anchored in the shallow end of Great Bay Beach. Thick, full palm trees hung over the beach and provided shade along the boardwalk. Strolling along Voorstraat (Front Street) we would soon be arriving into the outskirts of town.

Before reaching the beach, we made a stop at Chez Delphine located on Old Street to try a couple of freshly handmade fruit drinks. I ordered the local Guavaberry while Dave selected the Mango with Pineapple drink, which were fresh and fabulous (but a little pricey…$20 for 2).

We found outdoor seating on a perfectly combed, white sanded beach located across the restaurant. It was the perfect setting for us to enjoy our drinks and relax before entering town.

Strolling along the beach, we came upon two piers, so we walked out, looking back to enjoy the view of the Great Bay Beach and the surrounding area. We learned that we could have taken unlimited rides on the water taxi from the ship for seven dollars. Chair and umbrella rentals were also available for a small fee.

Enjoying the view from the pier, we nearly missed a turtle down below in the beautiful clear Caribbean waters and we took a few moments to watch it swim out into the ocean.

We decided to leave the beach behind and to start exploring the town’s center. Noticing Wathey Square (De Ruyterplein) and the 18th-century courthouse, we enjoyed the West Indian architecture with its delicate gingerbread fretwork.

One of the biggest attractions and the best place for souvenirs was the Guavaberry Island Folk Liqueur. We decided to find a store to purchase a few bottles to take home and also found spices and sugar cane. The store clerk informed us that they export the Old Man Brand to Florida, but we wanted to take some home to share with family and friends.

We were wrapping up the end of our walking tour and began our return back towards the shopping area.

Sint Maarten was the last port on our cruise and we would be staying in San Juan for a couple of days to rest and explore before our flight. We agreed that this was one of the cleanest ports on our itinerary. We enjoyed the small town feel with the option to relax at the beach. The weather cleared up just as we had expected and the temperature ended up in the mid 80’s. Just another beautiful day in paradise!

Working on cruise ships, I was often asked which port of call was my favorite. It was always such a difficult question to answer because each island/port has something different to offer and depending on my mood for that day, I may prefer one over the other for various reasons. Some of the reasons include, the food, the beaches, the locals and the nightlife, just to mention a few. Do you have a favorite port of call? Why? I would love to hear about it in the comments section below! Many thanks for joining me on my tour of Sint Maarten and wishing you Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Chez Delphine
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Telephone: 721 522 2313

I loved the guavaberry smoothie that I tried here! Yum!

Pirates in Paradise
69 C Front Street / Beach Side
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, 00001 Netherland Antilles
Telephone: 721 999 9999

More delicious frozen cocktails to enjoy inside of the sports bar or the beach bar.

Where to Stay:

Oyster Bay Beach Resort
10 Emerald Merit Road
Sint Maarten
Telephone: 866 978 0212

UPDATE: Oyster Bay Beach Resort was devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017. The resort will be reopening in June of 2018.

Where to Eat:

Ocean Lounge
45 Boardwalk
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
Telephone: 721 542 1572

The Ocean Lounge is located in the Holland House Beach Hotel offering a spectacular ocean view. We ordered the Tuna Tataki to start and the Red Snapper with jasmine rice.

L’Escargot Restaurant
96 Front Street
Philipsburg, St. Maartin
Netherlands Antilles
Telephone: 721 542 2483

On a return trip, and with a new boyfriend David, we took the advice of our concierge and made reservations at L’Escargot for French cuisine. We each placed an order for Les Escargots de Bourgogne (snails in butter), while I decided upon the Surf and Turf (lobster and filet mignon), while David was completely satisfied with the La Langouste Thermidor. Of course we shared, and I am still dreaming about the lobster with crabmeat baked in the shell, served with white wine, mushrooms and cheese. It doesn’t get any better than this….oh yes it does, Edith Piaf was playing in the background. Ahhhh…sublime!

What to Eat:

Callaloo – a soup made with fresh greens, onions and okra as well as pork
Codfish Fritters
Conch and Dumplings
Crabmeat-Stuffed Shells (Crab Backs)
Guavaberry Liquer
Johnny Cakes – similar to pancakes but made with cornmeal
Locri – a dish of rice, chicken and a variety of vegetables
St. Maartan Spareribs
Whelk soup – a soup made from saltwater mollusks that are smaller than conch. Usually stewed in coconut milk, additional seasonings are added to give it a unique taste.

What to Read:

Gone Bamboo, by Anthony Bourdain
St. Maarten, by Jaron Summers
The Marigot Run, by John Ballern
Island in the Sun, by Alec Waugh

Photo Guide for Sint Maarten

Anse Marcel Viewpoint
Cupecoy Beach
Fort St. Louis
Friar’s Bay Beach
Happy Bay Beach
Maho Beach
Mullet Bay Beach
Phillipsburg
Pic Paradis
Trou de David (David’s Hole)

Chez Delphine

St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church

Sint Maarten Water Taxi

The Port of Sint Maarten

Ships at Sint Maarten

Beach in Sint Maarten

Water Pad in Sint Maarten

Sea Turtle from the Pier

An Afternoon Wine Tasting in Tuscany

19 February 201631 August 2024

During a fall trip to the Mediterranean, I was looking forward to visiting the Tuscany region of Italy. I had booked a seven-day cruise on the Pullmantur Sovereign and decided to experience the rolling hills of vineyards on an excursion sponsored by the ship. The opportunity to sample the Italian wines outside of Florence was an unforgettable experience and from that point forward, I became fascinated by the wines of Italy from Chianti to Sangiovese.

The day was absolutely beautiful for a morning in Pisa then a short bus ride to the Tuscan region of Lucca. Famous for its wine and spectacular countryside, vineyards of Semillon and Pinot Bianco grapes surrounded us as the bus arrived at Fattoria il Poggio.

Fattoria means “farm” in Italian and the il Poggio is what the Italians refer to as an agritourismo, otherwise known as a farm stay. Farm stays are perfect for guests who are interested in immersing themselves in the local culture based in an agricultural setting. In most cases, the restaurants at a fattoria will incorporate the “farm to table” concept using its own fresh produce and meats.

With voracious appetites, we were eager to sample the local wines as well as the olive oil produced by the farm. This beautiful eco-tourismo exports seven red and white wines as well as a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegar.

We arrived to elegantly prepared tables draped in white linen tablecloths where empty wine glasses patiently waited to be filled. Our host welcomed us to Fattoria il Poggio as servers filled our tables with copious bottles of wine and antipasti. I could not wait to indulge in the estate wines, snack on locally prepared meats and cheeses and enjoy some of the finest ingredients organically grown at the farm.

The hospitality at Fattoria il Poggio was exceptional, the scenery mesmerizing and the food was more than outstanding. Enjoying the generous portions set before us, we learned so much about the daily farm activities as well as how their products are made.

The wine pours were flowing and there were plenty of meats, cheeses, bread and olives. Served family style, I can assure you that no one left hungry and not a drop of wine was left in the bottles. What an amazing way to spend the afternoon.

We were offered six wines to sample as well as the wide range of items produced at the farm. Fattoria Il Poggio has been making high quality wines since 1845 as well as growing fruits and medicinal herbs. These items were available for purchase at the gift shop where other wine related souvenir items were sold as well.

A day in Tuscany is certainly not enough time to visit the region of remarkable wines which has made such an impact on the country’s culture. With seven World Heritage Sites and endless charming villages, this area is one of the most visited in Italy.

Should guests decide to book a stay at Fattoria il Poggio, luxury accommodations include such amenities as WiFi, satellite TV, floor heating, a private spa and a rooftop pool. Additional services include local tours, onsite events and cooking classes. The il Poggio is the ideal location for wedding ceremonies, anniversaries and other monumental celebrations.

I absolutely love the idea of supporting local families and booking a stay at an agritourismo. With first class service, outstanding amenities and fabulous produce, Fattoria il Poggio is the perfect farm stay for a future visit to Tuscany.

Are you a wine lover? Have you visited a winery that you absolutely loved? Or do you have the experience of staying at an agritourismo? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. And if you have visited Lucca and can recommend other wineries, I would love to hear about your favorites as well. Many thanks for reading about my wine tasting in Lucca and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0583 22088

Where to Stay:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone: +39 0583 22088

Where to Eat:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone: 39 0583 22088

Fattoria il Poggio’s Menu

During our wine tasting, we sampled various delicious Antipasti dishes.

What to Eat:

Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a T-bone steak with the filet on one side and sirloin on the other.
Cacciucco is a fish soup dish from the port towns of Livorno and Viareggio.
Castagnaccio is a cake made from chestnut flour.
Crostini Toscani is bread topped with chopped liver sauce.
Lampredotto sandwich is made from the fourth stomach of a cow served in broth and served with a spicy sauce.
Lardo di Colonnata is cured pork meat.
Panzanella is a bread soup served cold made from bread, tomatoes, onion, basil, olive oil and vinegar.
Pappa al pomodoro is a simple soup made of tomatoes, garlic, and basil leaves served with stale bread.
Ribollita is a soup made with cabbage, beef, carrots and onion.

What to Read:

A Culinary Traveller in Tuscany, by Beth Elon
A Thousand Days in Tuscany, by Marlena de Blasi
A Vineyard in Tuscany: A Wine Lover’s Dream, by Ferenc Mate
Every Day in Tuscany, Seasons of an Italian Life, by Frances Mayes
Not in a Tuscan Villa, by John and Nancy Petralla
The Agony and the Ecstacy, by Irving Stone
Under the Tuscan Sun, by Frances Mayes
War in Val D’Orica: An Italian War Diary, 1943 – 1944, by Iris Origo

Photo Guide for Tuscany:

Here are some amazing locations to photograph Tuscany, Italy:

Florence:
- Canonici Palace
- Florence Baptistry
- Florence Cathedral
- Florence Skyline: view from Palazzo Vecchio
- Il Duomo
- Marcampo
- Michelangelo’s David statue
- Montalcino Street
- Palazzo Strozzi
- Perano Castle
- Piazalle Michelangelo
- Piaza del Duomo
- Pienza
- Ponte Vecchio
- The Streets of Florence
- Uffizi Gallery
- Volpaia
Pisa
- The Leaning Tower
- Marina
Tuscany
- Abbazia San Galgano
- Abbey of Sant’Antimo
- Agritourismos
- Basilica di Santa Magherita
- Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta
- Carrara Marble Quarry
- Castel Boccale
- Chianti
- Cortona
- Crete Senesi
- Firenze – the Arno River from the Ponte Santa Trinita
- Monte Divalli
- Montepulciano
- Monticchiello – Strada dei Cipressi
- Palazzo Pitti
- Pitigliano
- Podere Belvedere countryside in the Val D’Orcia
- Poggio Covilli d’Asso
- San Gimignano
- San Giovanni
- Seminario Maggiore
- Siena – view from the Torre del Mangio
- Terranuova Bracciolini
- Tuscan Tunnel
- Volterra
Wineries
- Avignonisi
- Barone Ricasoli
- Capezanna
- Castello Banfi
- Castello di Ama
- Castiglion del Bosco
- Poggio al Casone
- Poggio Antico

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A Port Day in Dominica

1 December 201531 August 2024

During a Caribbean cruise that stopped in Roseau, the port of Dominica, I decided to go out on my own and hire a driver for the day. I thought it would be fun to hike to the Trafalgar Falls, explore Boiling Lake, the world’s second largest hot spring and shop at one of the local markets.

As soon as I disembarked the ship, I found a small stall nearby where several drivers were willing to take tourists to a wide range of attractions. It was here where I met Blaise.

Blaise, a sweet young woman born and raised on the island, was soft spoken and shy. She explained that she would take me to the top of the hill where I could take a photo of the cruise ship and shop for souvenirs which were much less expensive than at the cruise port.

Stopping at Morne Bruce, the view of Roseau was absolutely spectacular with an ocean view for miles and the scene of the local landscape. Blaise pointed out the cricket stadium, the large local cemetery and a couple of other buildings and then set off for our adventure.

The shopping was sparse and there were no food vendors, but Blaise had snacks and water in her car. I was hoping to try the Dominican cuisine and thought that if I had time when we returned, I would check for a place in town where the locals liked to eat.

After driving the coast for some time, we began our trek towards the center of the island making a few stops along the way. Blaise explained that the island was home to many rare plants, animals and birds that were only thought to be living throughout Dominica including the Sisserou parrot found on the Dominican flag.

Mountainous peaks rose up from the shoreline covered in lush greenery that was visible for miles. The drive was only 7 kilometers, which should have only taken no more than 20 minutes, but with poor roads and cruise ship traffic, it took us nearly an hour to reach Morne Trois Pitons National Park, home of the Trafalgar Falls.

Blaise found a parking spot and with so many vans, I was worried the place would be overcrowded. She explained that I would need to purchase my ticket and follow the signs for the hike. She would wait for me as long as I wanted to explore this magnificent trail.

After paying my $5 entrance fee, I immediately noticed the sign guiding me in the direction of the falls. I hiked a lovely path within the rainforest until reaching the beautiful twin falls about twenty minutes later. I was happy that I had brought comfortable shoes with traction because the rocks and trail were wet and slippery.

The upper waterfall, lovingly referred to as “Father”, cascades approximately 200 feet from the Trois Pitons River where it empties into hot sulfur springs. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the sulfuric pools at the base of the falls, but I was not prepared.

The lower waterfall or “Mother”, is just over 100 feet and fills up a natural swimming pool below which is much cooler than the springs. I took several minutes to climb through the rocks for a closer look at the falls and felt its refreshing spray. Having stayed for about an hour, I headed back on the trail where I would meet up with Blaise so I could enjoy some time at the Rainforest Shangri-La Resort.

We arrived at the Rainforest Shangri-La Resort so that Blaise could explain the amazing geology of the island of Dominica. Out of all of the Lesser Antilles, Dominica has nine active volcanoes, making it one of the best preserved rainforests in the world. The geothermal springs create natural hot tubs where visitors can come to experience the healing properties of these amazing waters.

While there have been no volcanic eruptions since the time of Christopher Columbus, one can see the steam coming up from the ground showing how hot the earth is below the surface. Boiling Lake, a fumarole located within the park, has a temperature that measures from 180 to 197 degrees. Unfortunately we did not have time to visit the lake, but saw evidence of the underground heat within the park where we saw bubbling water coming out from the ground as we strolled through Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

Although I was hoping to see some of the local parrots, we were unable to enter the Parrot Conservation & Research Centre because they were entertaining cruise ship passengers. I would have loved to have seen the Sisserou Parrot, but it was time for us to return to the port to find a local dish and enjoy a Kubuli beer before boarding the ship.

Blaise dropped me off at Ruins Rock Café which is close to the cruise ship port and before I could ask her if the menu really included zebra and kangaroo, she had already picked up her next set of patrons for a tour of the island. I ordered the codfish sandwich and was ready to find a local watering hole when I found the Hi Rise, Beach Bar, perfect for the seafood and scenery. I paid $15 for six beers and sat inside at a table with the view of the mountains and eventually left to board the ship for the next port wishing I could smuggle on my lager.

Have you visited Dominica? What excursions did you experience? I would love to hear about your adventure in the Lesser Antilles and any advice for a future visit. Many thanks for reading about my port day on this beautiful island and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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

What to See and What to Do:

Morne Trois Pitons National Park
48 Cork Street
Roseau, Dominica

Rainforest Shangri-La Resort
Wotten Waven
Roseau Valley, Dominica

Parrot Conservation & Research Center Botanical Gardens
Bath Road
Roseau, Dominica
Telephone: 767 503 4630

Where to Stay:

Fort Young Hotel
Victoria Street, PO Box 519
Roseau, Dominica, West Indies
Telephone: 767 448 5000

Where to Eat:

Hi Rise, Beach Bar
Roseau, Dominica
Telephone: 784 528 1725

Great place for drinking and local fish.

What to Eat:

Agouti is an animal similar to a squirrel or a guinea pig native to the area. The meat is seasoned and served in a spicy curry sauce with various vegetables.
Callalou Soup is one of my favorite dishes from the island made with a vegetable that resembles spinach. Served as a soup, it is seasoned with various spices and fresh local vegetables.
Chatou Water or Octopus soup is a one pot meal which contains dumplings and assorted vegetables.
The Codfish Sandwiches are amazing! A favorite among tourists.
Fresh Fruit to include mangoes, papaya, bananas, guava and pineapples
Manicou is another island delicacy made from opossum. The meat is seasoned and then smoked usually served as a stew along with rice.
Mountain Chicken is considered Dominica’s national food and does not contain any chicken in it at all but rather meat from the local frog and served with either yams, yucca, rice or plantains.
Rum from local distilleries
Sancocho is a hearty dish made with either chicken or beef with local vegetables such as plantains and cassava melon. A blend of lovely spices such as cilantro, cumin, garlic and paprika are added to a sauce of onion and tomato which is poured over the meat and served hot.
Sorrel Punch is made from a local plant which is boiled and then ginger is added to it. It is a very popular drink during the Christmas holiday.

What to Read:

The Dominica Story by Lenox Honychurch
The Orchid House by Phyllis Shand Allfry
Bayou of Pigs: The True Story of an Audacious Plot to Turn a Tropical Island into a Criminal Paradise by Stewart Bell
Pharcel: Runaway Slave by Alick Lazare

Photo Guide for Dominica:

Morne Trois Pitons National Park
Scott’s Head with its tiny village and views of the Soufriere Bay
Papillotte Tropical Gardens with its amazing waterfalls
Victoria Falls
The architecture in Roseau
Underwater Photos at Champagne Reef
Boiling Lake with its mesmerizing colors and mist coming off of it.

Experience a Western Town by Visiting Rawhide in Arizona

15 May 201431 August 2024

It seems like ages ago that I spent the afternoon in the little western town of Rawhide, in northern Scottsdale, Arizona. With a fascination of learning more about the wild, wild west, I decided it would be fun to explore this recreation with gunslingers and historical outposts.

I imagined the John Wayne movies and Clint Eastwood’s attitude as I was transported back in time to the 1880s with a stage coach, train rides, gunfights and a mechanical bull named Widowmaker.

While I’m not the gambling type, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to strike it rich panning for gold, while failing miserably at the shooting gallery. After a few hours of reveling in the good ole days, I checked into the Rawhide Steakhouse for an authentic western-style meal with portions big enough to feed any hardy cowboy or a family of four.

Entrance into the town of Rawhide is free, unless an event has been scheduled. Visitors can check out Rawhide’s event calendar at calendar@rawhide.com. The town attractions require tickets or a wristband to participate, but both can be picked up at the entrance located on-site.

Unique shops line the wide dirt road selling souvenirs or fashionable western wear. Main Street is where all of the action takes place and at one point, I found myself in the middle of a gunfight.

I suggest that visitors plan for a full day of fun participating in a number of interactive experiences. If I had more time, I would have loved to have scheduled the desert train ride or watched a performance at the Spirit of the West Theatre.

After dinner, I had just enough time for one more activity and was having a difficult time deciding what I should do next. It was a toss up between the burros and the mules and I finally made up my mind to take a mule ride in the Sonoran desert. The excursion began at the Butterfield Stageline and was the perfect experience for watching the sunset. The warm, beautiful sun gave off a soft glow as it disappeared behind the cacti the covered the desert floor. Reflecting off of the ground cover in muted tones, we had plenty of time to return before dark of night.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Rawhide or a similar old western town? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below! Many thanks for reading about my visit to Rawhide and wishing you many Happy Travels!

UPDATE since my visit to Rawhide!

The location of Rawhide has moved from Scottsdale to Chandler, located on the Gila Indian Reservation, close to the Phoenix Airport. In 2008, they reopened the Wild West Museum with featured exhibits and artifacts.

What to See and What to Do:

Rawhide Western Town
5700 W N. Loop Road
Chandler, Arizona 85226
Telephone: 480 502 5600

Admission Fee: Free during Signature and Holiday events.
Hours: Rawhide is only open for visitors during Signature and Holiday events which are listed on their website.
Amenities: Restaurant, rides, shopping, entertainment venue, scheduled concerts and festivals as well as private events.
Length of Visit: 3 – 4 hours

Where to Stay:

The Boulders Resort & Spa
34631 North Tom Darlington Drive
Carefree, Arizona 85377
Telephone: 480 488 9009

Where to Eat:

El Encanto Mexican Patio Cafe
6248 E. Cave Creek Road
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
Telephone: 480 488 1752

This was such a romantic restaurant and I loved sitting out on the outside patio!

What to Eat:

Cheese crisps have a tortilla base with a generous layer of cheese, baked to crispy perfection.
Chimichangas
Mesquite flour is made from the mesquite tree and has a nutty flavor. Perfect for baking, try this local delicacy in sweets such as breads, muffins and pancakes.
Native American fry bread dates back to the late 1800s and is a fried dough used as a base for savory taco toppings or seasoned with cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
Sonoran Hot Dogs are wrapped in bacon, set inside the bun and topped with pinto beans, onion, tomatoes, mayonnaise, ketchup and mustard. This popular street food is easy to find on local menus.

What to Read:

Desert Noir, by Betty Webb
Desert Run, by Betty Webb
Desert Shadows, by Betty Webb
Desert Lost, by Betty Webb
Dead Heat, by Patricia Briggs

Photo Guide for Scottsdale:

Pinnacle Peak as seen from the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale must be photographed at night as well as from the resort’s patio
Greasewood Flat is a restaurant that was once a bunkhouse.
The architecture of Cosanti and Arcosanti in Scottsdale’s Paradise Valley
Old Town Scottsdale for authentic Wild West shots.
Camelback Mountain
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West

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