DETROIT – Once one of the richest cities in the world, Detroit has undergone a tremendous renaissance. I was in the city last summer for a few days to scout out its suitability for hosting the annual convention of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), of which I’m a board member. My SATW colleague and I gave it two thumbs up, and we held our convention there last month. The city’s tourism board worked tremendously hard and helped us put on a fantastic, successful convention. The locals and volunteers were welcoming and helpful, the weather was perfect and the convention Read more
Top Things To Do In
NIAGARA-ON-THE LAKE, ONTARIO – We’re sitting on comfy outdoor furniture in a lovely cabana in mid-August, sipping some of Niagara’s best wine and nibbling away at a tray of splendid, hot cheese puffs. There’s an attractive, blue/grey sail over our heads to protect us from the sun, and we have a close-up view of the bright green, leafy vineyards, where red wine grapes are just beginning to turn soft shades of plum. We’ve each been served a glass of the Chateau’s excellent sparkling wine and are slowly (well, kind of) sipping away as we soak in the beauty – and Read more
ON THE CALIFORNIA COAST – One of the world’s great drives. Sensational food. And a wide mix of places to stay. The Monterey/Big Sur region of California is one of the most magical destinations on the planet, a “pinch me, I must be dreaming” kind of place that almost defies the imagination with its mix of soft light and rugged beauty. Here are some highlights from a recent trip from Monterey to Big Sur and back, including visits to the towns of Carmel and Pacific Grove, and a stunning, hillside spot on the coast. I’m also sprinkling in some tips Read more
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – Glamorous and casual hotels seconds from the beach. A farmer’s market where some of the country’s best chefs pick through selections of super fresh, lemons and Genovese basil to serve that night at local restaurants. Super cool neighborhoods, art galleries, and perhaps the most famous pier in North America. Santa Monica is a gem that embodies all the best things about the California lifestyle, an open-minded city that welcomes visitors of all types and embraces sustainability and inclusiveness. It was only three months ago that fires ripped through parts of southern California, destroying hundreds of homes. Read more
This is one of the great cities of Canada; a vibrant but super-friendly spot where people aren’t in a rush and where drivers stop to let crazed Torontonians jaywalk across a busy street at rush hour. You’ll also find a wonderful waterfront, terrific food and trendy neighbourhoods to explore. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Halifax, and also some suggested places to stay and side trips to take. WHAT TO SEE Halifax Citadel National Historic Site is a former British and Canadian fort that sits on a high hill overlooking the city. A Read more
