I recently started a regular feature called “Canada Shorts” for people who want travel tips but don’t have a lot of time. I also posted a “Europe Shorts” item on the weekend that was focused on Lisbon, Portugal. Today I’ll start my “Florida Shorts” item with a look at the top things to see and do near Crystal River, a lovely, natural part of The Sunshine State. CRYSTAL RIVER, FLORIDA – The main attraction in this area a couple hours north of Tampa is the fresh spring water that bubbles up from the Florida limestone, creating crystal-clear creeks and rivers. Read more
kayaking
OCEANSIDE – Visitors to this southern California seaside town will still find remnants of the days when it was best known as a place for soldiers stationed at nearby Camp Pendleton to blow off steam. There are old-style movie theatres and diners, and a number of barber shops proudly flying the Stars and Stripes and offer haircuts for as little as $11. But things have begun to change. A new Wyndham hotel appeared a few years ago. SpringHill Suites by Marriott followed. And then came the Mission Pacific and the Seabird, two sparkling, boutique hotels with rooftop bars sprung up Read more
This is a repost of a story I wrote a few years ago. World class wines in an area that resembles the Napa Valley of California. Fabulous lodges with great food. And kayaking in deep blue waters that feel like the Gulf Islands of British Columbia. I arrived in the Marlborough region of New Zealand, the far north end of the South Island, knowing I’d be tasting some of the world’s best – and most popular – Sauvignon Blanc. Somehow I didn’t realize the area had such jaw-dropping scenery, as well. Upon arrival at the small airport in Blenheim, my Read more
Everyone knows about Orlando and Miami. But Florida also is home to magnificent nature spots and quiet areas where you can be far from the crowds. Here are a few suggestions from a regular Florida visitor.
The Canadian government this week dropped its warning against international travel, a move that could boost consumer confidence. With that in mind, I’ll be highlighting great destinations over the next little while using the tag “Time to Travel.” Here’s a post from a great trip to Florida a few years ago. INVERNESS, FLORIDA – It’s a cool morning by Florida standards and a light fog is hanging over the dark waters of the Withlacoochee River. The mist rises and swirls over the top of the river as we pull away from the dock for our tour of the river with Read more
