Balkans, now at peace, are worth a visit
Ban Jelacic Square in Croatia’s capital of Zagreb is a gathering spot for locals. Zagreb’s history dates to Roman times, and today the city has a population of about 800,000.Photo by Victor BlockAs I strolled along ancient ramparts that encircled the small medieval city, the view changed with each twist and turn. On one side was a labyrinth of narrow streets lined by tile-roofed ... READ MORE
NYC from the classics to new attractions
If you haven’t visited New York City recently, you’ve got some catching up to do — from the observatory at One World Trade, to the new Whitney Museum, to happening neighborhoods far from Manhattan. Here’s a look.What’s newFor the newest bird’s-eye view of New York, head to the top of One World Trade. The ride up is so smooth, your tummy won’t even... READ MORE
The splendor (and salmon) of NW Oregon
Mt. Hood towers over vineyards (and everything else) in the Columbia River Valley in northwest Oregon. The 1,200-mile Columbia River is one of North America’s longest, and forms the boundary between Oregon and Washington.Photo © Bridget Calip“Ocean in view! O! the joy,” exulted Captain William Clark on November 7, 1805, when he heard deep rumbling and thought he had... READ MORE
Shreveport, La. — A cultural crossroads
The Shreveport-Bossier area of northwestern Louisiana serves as a crossroads where the Cajun and Creole traditions of Louisiana blend with the wide-open spirit of Texas.This unique combination of two great American heritages can be tasted in the food, where Texas-style barbecue often shares a plate with traditional Louisiana favorites like gumbo, po-boys and crawfish etouffee.It can also be ... READ MORE
How to avoid travel insurance disputes
If you’re planning a big trip, chances are you’re at least considering travel insurance. Travel insurance can either be a great idea — or a waste of money if you encounter a gotcha or two. Fortunately, you can avoid most gotchas if you buy and act carefully.Pre-existing conditionsAs with health insurance, pre-existing conditions can become a major gotcha for both... READ MORE
Eager to visit Cuba? Some things to know
Street musicians that play for tips from tourists are a common sight in Havana. More U.S. visitors are now visiting Cuba as restrictions begin to loosen.Kamira / Shutterstock.com“Is travel to Cuba for tourist activities permitted? No.” That’s what the U.S. Treasury Department website says.And yet Havana is loaded with Americans, from the Floridita bar, where they pose for... READ MORE
Visit Antarctica — the Earth’s last frontier
They trekked snow-covered mountains, gasped at seals flopping along the coastline, and oohed at penguins waddling along on the ice. They even took in the spectacle of a humpback whale flapping its tail amid a sea of melting icebergs. But then the dozens of tourists — stranded on a cruise ship at the end of the world — could only stare up at the sky, waiting for several days of thick... READ MORE
A cool respite in N.H.’s White Mountains
One of New Hampshire’s 54 covered bridges, the Albany Covered Bridge, spans a quiet creek in the White Mountain National Forest. © Jon Bilous When my ears started popping, I realized I was gently ascending, easing up into New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Rounding a curve, my eyes started popping too, as gigantic granite cliffs and rocky bulges suddenly protruded from the... READ MORE
A trip back in time to Mark Twain’s town
Mark Twain lived in Hannibal, Missouri, for only 13 years, but many of his most famous stories were inspired by this humble Midwestern city. A visit to Hannibal today — with its excellent museums, preserved historic sites and old-timey antiques shops — offers a way to appreciate the impact this place had on one of America’s best-known writers. And, of course,... READ MORE
Dijon, France — much more than mustard
The Old Town area of Dijon, France dates back to medieval times, when dukes held power and protected the city from invaders. Tourists may visit many of the ornate ducal palaces and medieval churches in the area.© Dabldy | Dreamstime.com - Dijon Old Town Urban View PhotoYou can leave Dijon loaded with travel-ready packs of Dijon mustard in multiple flavors, from raspberry to tarragon to ... READ MORE
