Canadians don’t hear a lot about the Gold Rush country of the Sierra Nevada foothills, but it’s a marvellous part of California, with pine-scented hills, great driving trips, fantastic wineries and fun towns such as Angels Camp, Murphys and Sonora. Ironstone Vineyards is a popular winery in the Sierra foothills in Murphys, California. The vineyards turn lovely shades of yellow in the fall, as you can see in the photo above. The floral displays at Ironstone Vineyards are part of the draw. They have a small deli making good sandwiches and soup, and the wine shop/wine tasting room is a Read more
U.S.A.
I’m constantly getting scrunched up faces from people at cocktail parties or dinners. I shower a lot and try to get to the laundry when I can, so it’s not that. No, what surprises some folks is that not even travel writers and former newspaper travel editors get to go everywhere they want. When I tell folks all the places that are still on m to-do list (Portugal, Poland, pretty much all of Africa, all of Central America and definitely all of South America) they look at me like I’m a little crazy. Some of it I can explain. Some Read more
Situation with Canadian couple that faces $1 million bill for premature birth of baby in Hawaii brings up an important issue, which is that half of all Canadians don’t buy travel health insurance. I’m guilty, too. But I won’t be in the future. The story in the Toronto Star the other day about the Saskatchewan couple who gave birth to a premature baby in Hawaii and now face a potential medical bill of $1 million is incredible. And very sad. It remains to be seen what will happen. I hope the insurance company will cut them some slack. But from Read more
The Hanalei Valley on north Kauai is a lush, tropical spot where they still grow taro and live close to the land. The north coast of the island of Kauai features gorgeous mountains and fabulous gardens. Try a hike along the coast to a lonely beach that will have you uttering words like “paradise” over and over. Princeville Golf Course is a spectacular layout near the town of Hanalei on the north part of Kauai. Tahiti Nui is a fun bar in Hanalei town, where part of the movie “The Descendants” was filmed. I did NOT spot George Clooney when Read more
Sarasota is well-known for its beautiful architecture and stunning beaches. But I hadn’t spend much time in the area until last week, when I got to explore Longboat Key and Siesta Key and some of the downtown area. I came away hugely impressed with the natural beauty and with the artwork and museums, including one that features some cool, classic cars. I fell in love with the small city of Venice, which has a great, low-key main street and a terrific beach and lots of cool history. Check my photo blog below for some nice photos and useful information!
