Virtual Tennessee

During this time of shelter in place where recreational travel is on standby, there’s still a chance to take a virtual tour of many cities. Tennessee, in particular, has a plethora of digital methods for exploring from your home. Take a cooking lesson with some of Nasheville’s most beloved chefs, tour historical sites, visit an…

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Why I’m Keeping My Summer Travel Plans

In the midst of so much change, one thing I still retain is the ability to dream, to envision future plans. My future plans include a women’s fishing expedition to the Steamboat Bay Fishing Club in the remote area of Ketchikan, Alaska. Located on Noyes Island, our group will take a short float plane ride…

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Traveling Just Before The Coronavirus Outbreak

It was looking to be a full but typical year of travel. Spring and fall are the busiest times for a travel writer, and headed into the year, 2020 seemed to be no exception. Plans were set for spring travel to California in early March, Virginia in April, Alabama in May, a visit to Erie,…

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The 7 Best Whiskey Subscriptions

Keeping up with the latest whiskey trends can be a challenge. Between limited runs, new releases, and new innovations in distilling, whiskey lovers may feel lost. So, whether you want to expand your palate or try a new sipping spirit, whiskey subscription boxes may be the answer. You’ll save a trip to the liquor store…

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Train Talk on NPR with Thomas Wilmer

While visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea, I got a chance to sit down and talk about my favorite topic — train travel — with Thomas Wilmer on his award-winning NPR podcast, Journeys of Discovery. Listen here.

The Best Things to See and Do in Fredericksburg, Texas

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg offers wineries, charming shops, fine dining, and German heritage, all in a beautiful and historic setting. If you visit during the spring, you’ll be treated to a spectacular show of wildflowers, including Texas’s famous bluebonnets. Read Jill’s story at Travel Awaits.

10 Unique Bars in Phoenix

My introduction to the unique bars of Phoenix was walking down the stairs into the dark, cramped chamber of UnderTow. Lights were flashing as simulated thunder and lightning crashed in this makeshift ship’s belly. It was electric, and I’ve since sent friends to visit when they asked what to see and do in Phoenix. Read…

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7 Reasons to Retire in Gainesville, Georgia

There’s a lot to consider when deciding where to retire, including cost of living, climate, leisure activities, community life, and access to the arts. Many retirees are flocking to Gainesville, Georgia, and it’s easy to see why. Gainesville, located near Lake Sidney Lanier in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers affordable living and…

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San Francisco Bay to the Monterey Peninsula by Train – Itinerary

Follow along on a seven-night trip traveling to San Francisco, Sausalito, Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel-by-the-Sea with a train ride on the Coast Starlight. Day 1  Arrive at SFO. Take BART to lodging. Check in at Clift Royal Sonesta. The Clift Royal Sonesta is very excited to announce the reopening of their renovated hotel, a…

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