How to travel alone without being lonely
It may seem like we live in a couples-based society, or, as Michigander Laura McCort puts it, “a Noah’s Ark world where all are expected to be paired up,” but traveling solo is a growing trend that appeals to many people. When I travel alone, I have the freedom to choose — my schedule, sites to see, food to eat — without negotiating. I enjoy quiet time to muse and watch the human ... READ MORE
The best way to see more of Peru is by bus
Through three decades of traveling together, my husband and I avoided bus tours. We relished our independence, traveling on our own by train, bus or rental car — until we planned a trip to Peru. Tourists typically fly from Lima to Cuzco, visit Machu Picchu, then fly home. But Bob and I wanted to see more of the country, so we asked Peruvian friends for advice. Forget public... READ MORE
Detroit reflects America’s changes
If you visit Detroit, don’t be surprised to hear the names Henry Ford and Motown in the same sentence. After all, the city is famous for both cars and music. A trip to Michigan’s largest city reveals how much these influences have changed American life in little more than a century. A good place to start a tour of the area is the Henry Ford Museum, located in Dearborn, 20 minutes... READ MORE
Check out Greensboro’s history and hospitality
If I didn’t know better, I might think Greensboro, North Carolina, was named for its abundance of trees and parks, one of the reasons I’ve visited four times and plan to return again. Nature lovers will feel right at home here. With beautiful parks, gardens and trails, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them active and engaged. In reality, however, Greensboro, founded in ... READ MORE
Romania’s thrills include ‘Dracula’s castle’
At the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe is the surprisingly beautiful, sophisticated and affordable country of Romania. The picturesque Carpathian Mountains dominate the landscape, cutting through Romania’s center and most famous region, Transylvania. My husband, Chris, and I love exploring new-to-us countries, so we were excited to sail the lower Danube River with Avalon... READ MORE
Why Lisbon should be on your bucket list
Lisbon, Portugal’s capital city, is often passed by for Paris, Barcelona and other touristy counterparts. Yet with its historic castles, public squares and amazing cuisine, the charming riverfront city is perfect for a short jaunt. I recently had the opportunity to enjoy my second visit to Lisbon, this time with a group of six friends. Our gang of curious travelers discovered quite a... READ MORE
Recharge, learn and play at Chautauqua
Last summer, I plunked myself in a classroom with 50 other adults and learned that bats’ wing bones are human-like fingers. The next day, I was immersed in a talk titled “Middle East Chaos.” The Chautauqua Institution in southwestern New York is like college without essays or exams — a week of screen-free indulgence in academics, arts, nature, recreation, meditation and... READ MORE
Whale watching up close is big in Baja
The large gray whale drew close to our boat. Crusty barnacles on its skin stood out like dense clusters of thread woven into an abstract tapestry. Several people scrambled to the side to lean over and touch the majestic beast as it sidled alongside. I could have either joined them or sit back and take photos. I opted for the latter, and I’m not sure I made the right choice. Whales of... READ MORE
This year is a good one to visit Rhode Island
Providence, Rhode Island’s capital city, aims to live up to its moniker as “The Creative Capital,” with an exceptional March — and year — planned for its visitors. The city’s Providence Culinary Collective, a four-day food and wine festival, returns March 26 to 29, celebrating the chefs, restaurants and makers shaping the city’s dining scene. Providence is positioning... READ MORE
SoCal’s Catalina Island has a magical vibe
Twenty-six miles across the sea, Santa Catalina is a-waiting for me. In 1957, the Four Preps crooned about an “island of romance” off the coast of southern California. Back then, the song caught the imagination of this anxious, tortured, barely pubescent 14-year-old with visions of swaying palm trees, balmy breezes and California blondes. Now, 70 years later, an older, wizened... READ MORE
