Pin Your Map!!!

Wine Not! Napa & Sonoma California

2015-04-03T11:08:00.002-05:00

All things Wine Time!

Napa & Sonoma - California

A trip to Wine Country always starts off in the fabulous city of San Francisco. The seals, the bridge, the fisherman's wharf, Alcatraz...the sourdough bread. San Francisco is a true San Francisco treat in itself. For those of you who haven't made the trip from San Fran on into Sonoma/Napa - make sure you stop off after you cross over the bridge for this great opportunity to view the city and of course the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Sonoma - The Quiet Neighbor to Napa

October in the Wine Country

We had a fab group of 12 ladies in our group on this trip. My favorite site for booking vacation homes is www.airbnb.com. I personally like Airbnb over VRBO and HomeAway due to the fact they verify their owners and hold all $ till you check in. To check out the 12 person home we stayed in see the link below:

https://airbnb.com/rooms/1257151?s=8

Bora - the owner of the home was very easy to work with and the house was perfect.

(Note: Sonoma has a noise ordinance - this peaceful town doesn't like the partiers so just know the party has to come in by 10pm) Wine-Sleep-Repeat!

Okay okay... On to the WINE!

Here are a few tips when traveling in a large group...

*Plan Ahead... Plan an Itinerary...Make Reservations at ALL Wineries you plan to visit.

*Coordinate Transportation - We Hired a Limo Bus

*Plan at least 2 Hours at Each Winery

*Map the distance between each winery and give a copy of the itinerary to your driver in advance

Day 1 - First Stop 10:00am - Domaine Carneros

1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559 | (707)257-0101

This hillside estate is the perfect way to begin your day. Most known for its sparkling wine otherwise known as "California Champagne" - Domaine Carneros won't disappoint. The abundance of sunshine and stunning views makes this patio perfection.

Next stop:

Lunch at Auberge de Soleil

180 Rutherford Hill Road, Rutherford, CA 94573 | (707) 967-3111

Take all opportunities to have some fun (this is in the courtyard as you enter Auberge de Soleil)

The food here is to die for! I had the Halibut... yum. Make sure you call WAY in advance for reservations - they only take reservations so far in advance so call and ask when the first opportunity is for you to make one and mark it on your calendar. You won't be disappointed. Request a table on the terrace - the views of neighboring vineyards makes the ambiance match the award winning food.

Raymond Vineyards - My #1

849 Zinfandel Lane, St. Helena, CA94574 | (707) 962-3141

I fell in love with this vineyard on my last trip here...So thankful I have a wine rep friend Stacie that recommended this to me so long ago. Hands down the most whimsical vineyard I have ever been to... from its picture frames dangling in the front vineyard, to the dog kennels (frenchies) and on to the mischievous Red Room.

The barrel room is an amazing setting for a tasting for your group. When you call for your appointment you can request it - for non-club members it is $50 a person and well worth it! They will even personalize a tasting menu as a take away for each person in your party.

Yep - the Red Room... Red Velvet Everywhere. If you are lucky enough to get in this room you will know what I am talking about. It is gorgeous and so rich in a mixture of textiles from top to bottom!

Before I Die... I Must Visit Sterling Vineyards!

1111 Dunaweal Lane, Callistoga, CA 94515 | (800) 726-6136

This vineyard is one that you don't need to make a reservation for... Just head on over and get a ticket and jump on the tram that takes you up to the castle. The tram ride to the castle offers stunning views. This vineyard has a self-guided tasting tour that takes you through the various parts of the castle while sampling their abundance of delicious wines.

We ended our tasting with a group tasting and cheese pairing in a private room. You just can't go wrong with fabulous friends and yummy wine & cheese!

Whew - that was the end of one day... Remember it's a marathon not a race!

A few of the many reasons I loved staying in the quaint town of Sonoma:

- Beautiful walking trails and hiking trails - I love exploring new cities and finding new adventures.

Sonoma Overlook Trail

- The Square! Sonoma square is covered with fun boutiques and restaurants and bars.

Basque Boulangerie Café

Steiners Tavern - Best Dive Bar in Sonoma

Day 2 - Exploring Sonoma & Napa Wineries

Buena Vista Winery (Raymond's Sister Winery)

18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA 95476 | (800) 926-1266

Meet "The Count"

Like Raymond - Buena Vista also has a VIP room - called the Champagne Room. Another exclusive to club members - this room offers the opposite of Raymond's Red Room with its white leather and dripping Crystals. Buena Vista was founded in 1857 and was California's first premium winery. This experience offers the best of old meets new.

Sebastiani Vineyards & Winery

389 4th Street E., Sonoma, CA 95476 | (707)933-3230

We loved our little pop in to this gem in the heart of Sonoma. Fantastic wine! They were so gracious to let us take over an area for our boisterous group!

STOP THE CAR - Silver Oak Cellars!

915 Oakville Cross Road, Oakville, CA 94562 | (707) 942-7022

A few of us made a special trip to go see this one... A Deb G. Favorite!

I left with a very special (and pricy) bottle of wine safe guarded in a mound of bubble wrap... This is a great special occasion wine and delicious!

And we set out for yet another day... Day 3

Francis Ford Coppola - Rustic

300 Via Archimedes, CA. 95441 | (707) 857-1485

Some days you just need to start off with lunch... We started our day with the limo bus driving us up to Geyserville to the Francis Ford Coppola Estate. You would think the vine covered hills never end up this way. Another place where the patio seating is a must. Francis has his movies and quirky since of charm written all over the inside of this stunning vineyard. Don't miss taking the time to tour around while you are here. This is a place you could easily spend 3 hours eating, tasting and touring.

The view from the terrace at Rustic

Mazzocco Vineyards

1400 Lytton Springs Road, Healdsburg, CA. 95448 | (800) 501-8466

This boutique winery is known for its Zinfandels. I am growing my pallet for red wine and fell head over heals for their Maria Zin. I shipped some home and have already made another order. Do it! Do it! Do it! The Flight Lounge Experience is a great way to taste their offerings.

Kunde Estate Winery & Vineyards

9825 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood, CA. 95452 | (707) 282-1537

The Hilltop Tasting was the best reservation we made... Upon arrival you board a limo bus that takes you up the winding trail to the top. At the top, a tasting area is set up with chairs and stools and of course - the wine! There isn't much out there to me that beats this and the fun we had a Kunde. Our fabulous host showed us an amazing time and allowed us to have a bit of fun (ok - a lot of fun)!

B.R. Cohn Winery

15140 Highway 12, Glen Ellen, CA 95442 | (707) 938-4064

I treasure this place! Who can't fall in love with string lights, magical nights, great music, fabulous wine with an amazing wine country backdrop. I felt like I was in a movie here... Like a RomCom but with all my girlfriends. Haha! If you are ever here on a Saturday night take advantage of their concert series and join in on a night under the stars at B.R. Cohn Winery.

My final thoughts as I put a wrap on this episode of Pin Your Map...

I came across this quote that was on a brick bench on the hike up Sonoma's Overlook Trail.

I dont know who Charles Lemme is, but what I do know is that this quote spoke to me and was a gentle reminder to be just "you". I imagine that Charles left his legacy on the hearts of those he left behind. So this "me" that's being "me" is wishing "you" that's being "you" a lifetime of love and adventure.

Now get out there and Pin Your Map!

~Crystal

To Love Me...

2015-03-25T23:10:00.002-05:00

2015-03-25T00:06:00.000-05:00

Turks & Caicos

Clear Blue Tranquility - My Island - Pure Fun

After traveling to many...actually most of the Caribbean Islands, I have to say hands down this was my favorite. Was it an island and was it to be what I expected like all the others... the short answer is NO. This magical island so full of life had so much more to offer than I had ever expected.

After many months of going back and forth on Trip Advisor trying to decide where to stay we finally decided on Seven Stars. I think I stalked the web daily watching prices fluctuate... I finally booked on Orbitz due to the ability to cancel up to 3 weeks prior to arrival. I used this free cancel option once and ended up very impressed with SEVEN STARS RESORT. This moderately priced (moderate for the island - which is high by most standards) hotel was a perfect selection on Grace Bay Beach. And we may have been drawn to the free breakfast. Two thumbs up for Seven Stars!

At Seven Stars Beach Bar

Crystal Clear!

Wow - the water - clarity and color are no joke. I think this was the most beautiful water I have ever ever seen...like ever! It was sometimes hard to tell the sky from the water...and not to mention the sand was like butter...silky and smooth! Oh yeah there's no need for water shoes here... you can walk out for yards still feeling the sand between your toes -not to mention seeing your toes too!

A True Island Experience!

Anyone that knows me knows that I am always up for an adventure...I mean I like to go an really experience everything a place has to offer. I say you haven't truly traveled to a place unless you have a true experience! I don't do touristy stuff...But I do love an adventure.

Island Dancers & Musicians

I had read about a FISH FRY that the island (Provo) has every Thursday night from 5:30-9:30pm...so we ventured out for a night of shenanigans.

Known as a culinary explosion, this must do takes getting to know the island to a whole-other-level!

I Heart Rum Punch and the Macarena...

I can't say we took part in the eating but we sure did get down and drink some Rum Punch! We met two sisters from Minnesota that night and danced the night way. Ummm yo Elizabeth and sister Betsy...you girls ROCK! Yet another amaze balls part of traveling - MEETING NEW FRIENDS!

What Did You Say - A Conch Fest?

Once a year Provo locals, hotels and chefs get together for the Conch Festival... Its kinda like Forrest Gump and his shrimp... there was conch prepared every which way you could imagine. I think I ate conch 15 different ways. The top hotels and restaurants participate for the win.

(and what better thing to do when it pours down rain)

Oh and did I forget to mention there was a MAJITO competition? Troy and I were selected as judges.... maybe we looked like tourist or something.

Well anyway - I say WIN WIN! SLURP SLURP!

Potcake

No Provo visit is complete without some Potcake Love....

Potcakes are the dogs of the island... some strays and some owned these doggies capture the hearts of many visitors. You can even adopt one for the time you are here or even take one home with you permanently. I met this lil' booger at Sharkbite Bar and Grill - I HIGHLY recommend! Pop on over this bar and grill for some grub and drinks...located on the marina. Back to the pup... to learn more about adoption: www.potcakeplace.com

A Token Snorkel Trip...

But anything but ordinary...

This was an amazing morning - yes it may have rained throughout most of the snorkel but nothing could take away from the beauty. When you go...not if you go - This is a MUST DO! Island Vibes was our tour company that we booked on site at our hotel. The guys took great care of us...providing great celeb stories and fresh conch.

Please do me a favor and add this spectacular island to your bucket/pin your map list.

"Please be a traveler, not a tourist. Try new things, meet new people, and look beyond what is right in front of you. Those are the keys to understanding the amazing world we live in."

- Andrew Zimmern

2012-07-08T21:44:00.000-05:00

The Caribbean

Toes in the Sand...Drinks in your Hand

We recently did a 2 week cruise to the Caribbean stopping in:

San Juan, Puerto Rico

*Explore Old San Juan - I love the cobblestone streets

*Visit the forts - amazing views

*Get out of the city - Great Hiking!

St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands

*Magens Bay is so-so... I suggest exploring other beaches like Koki

*If you like to shop - shop!!

*Very commercialized.... if you are looking for seclusion - go to St. John for the day!

*Go have a drink at Johnny's Bar - he makes a killer Rum Punch!

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

*Have a drink at Village Cay overlooking the marina

*Easy trip to neighboring islands

*Very secluded & laid back

Virgin Gorda

*Use Tortola as your hub to get to Virgin Gorda

*Find a guy named Dion - he will take you to Virgin Gorda for $50 a person

*Go to Virgin Gorda early... we went at 9am and beat all the crowds

*Explore the caves and climb the boulders - AMAZING!

Saint John's, Antigua

*Very underdeveloped roads - but I still recommend renting a car and exploring

*Visit the donkey sanctuary - make a donation - see a famous donkey

*Skip Nelson's Dockyard - not worth it!!

*Visit Devils Bridge

*Have a drink at Harbor View Bar & Cafe and watch the cruise ships (Have a Wadadli - local beer)

Roseau, Dominica

*One of my most favorite places EVER!!!

*Nature Lovers Paradise

*Visit Emerald Pool (go early beat the crowds)

*Titou Gorge is absolutely amazing (a scene from Pirates of the Caribbean 2 was filmed here)

*Trafalgar Falls (as seen below) hot water, cold water and 2 spectacular waterfalls

*Have a Kubuli (Local Beer)

Bridgetown, Barbados

*Go to Blue Monkey Beach - take your snorkel gear with you and you can shore snorkel out to the sea turtles

*Snorkeling with the sea turtles in their natural environment was one of the coolest things I have ever done! Don't forget a water camera - you won't want to miss these pics!

*Negotiate beach chairs - you shouldn't pay more than $10 for 2 chairs

*Check out Harbor Lights Beach Bar - rent chairs and snorkel with more sea turtles and an awesome ship wreck

St. Maarten

*Topless to the left, Nude to the Right - Very European = Very Nude

*Rent a Jeep

*Go to the Butterfly Farm - it's nice to do things you never get to do - so why not??

www.thebutterflyfarm.com

*Orient Beach - rent beach chairs and sit back for some interesting people watching! - enough said!

*Bring your own water chair and sit back and enjoy view like the one below....

St. Lucia

*Breathtaking!

*Climb the Gros Piton - a difficult but worthy climb to the top!

*Beware of winding roads - car sickness is not fun! I know! Take a boat rather than a van to the Pitons - 1.5 hours away from the cruise ship dock one way.

Greneda

*The island of SPICE! Don't leave without taking the tastes of the island home with you!

*The beach is close by the cruise ship... Catch a water taxi and enjoy the day!

Kralendijk, Bonaire

*Dive, Snorkel... do either, do both - just do it!

*I would live here! This place is gorgeous!

*Take a water taxi to No Name Beach - take your snorkel gear with you and drift snorkel straight from the shore. There is NOTHING on this beach - just leave your stuff and walk down the beach and enter the water at one of the entry points.

*Best Snorkeling EVER!

*Watch the sunset a Karel's Beach Bar - a great place to grab a drink and some food right on the water.

Oranjestad, Aruba

*Rent a four wheeler or motorcycle

*Explore the island from top to bottom - from the lighthouse to the wildlife park, to the caves to Baby Beach... Lots to see and do!

Eat Funchi - a local dish in Aruba - cornmeal fried with melted cheese on top.... Drink Balashi and Balashi Chill... locally brewed beer in Aruba

*The sand bar at Baby Beach is amazing...

I totally recommend this cruise via Princess Cruise Line. Its 2 weeks of new islands every day and only 2 sea days. If you want a great way to see as much of the Caribbean as possible in a short period of time...this is for you. Nothing beats waking up every morning on a different island....going all day... and coming back to the ship a night for great entertainment and an awesome dinner. We loved our trip and I would be happy to answer any questions on any of these islands...so message me!

Bon Voyage and keep traveling my friends!!

The Keys.... to a Great Trip! Key West FL!

2012-04-02T22:07:00.000-05:00

Ahhh - The Florida Keys!

What is a trip to Key West without a stop in Key Largo! And what's a worth the stop in Key Largo... Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill. This waterfront bar/restaurant is an awesome place to stop for a "Painkiller" and some yummy appetizers. I was sad I missed Jimmy by one day....He tweeted the next day that he was stopping in. Bummer!

Key West!

One of my most favorite places to go. I would call Key West a casual/tropical cross between Austin, Texas (Keeping Austin Weird) and New Orleans. Or maybe it's because you can drink on the streets... I don't know! I have only ever stayed on the water in Key West and I do believe it is the only way to go. Waking up to the sounds of water kissing the sides of the boat, seagulls flying above and the crisp morning air greeting you is the best.

The marinas are top notch -especially Conch Harbor! With showers, bars and restaurants right at your fingertips, it makes staying on the water very easy. Regardless of where you stay, an evening sunset stroll through the marina is not to be missed.

Some of my favorites places to go and eat in Key West:

Bagatelle is a higher end restaurant on Duval Street in Old Key West. Grab a table on the patio of this old converted home (built in 1884), order a great bottle of wine (they have one of the most extensive fine wine menus in the Keys) and sit back for a very enjoyable evening (watching the parade of people stroll by).

Santiago's Bodega is absolutely amazing! This tapas restaurant is not to be missed. Especially during happy hour from 5-7pm. $5 tapas and 1/2 price wine - cant beat it. Reservations are strongly recommended as this hidden gem is growing in popularity. Not a touristy place and slightly off the beaten path (aka - not on Duval Street). I loved stepping out of the cab to the sounds of chickens that were residents in the neighborhood.

A fan favorite - Sloppy Joe's! We spent every night here dancing the night away... and people watching here was amazing. There is a reason this place has live web cams! So if you are in Key West... stop in for a night you will probably forget.

And for those keeping it not so classy... don't miss Hog's Breath Saloon! Great bar food, live bands and they have a great BAR! I mean where else can you find a hog's ass hanging on a a wall???

Be sure to grab a few drinks and make some fun memories here! I'll drink to that! Everyone put your glasses up!

Key West is a place where you can let your hair down, relax and party as little or as much as you want. What is for sure that this magical place is never short of a good time!

Kusadasi & Ephesus, Turkey - Fake Watches, Biblical Ruins & A Virgin

2011-08-24T20:03:00.000-05:00

The Virgin Mary House

A Christian and Muslim Shrine located on Mt Koressos

Pilgrims visit the house based on the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken to this stone house by Saint John and lived there until her Assumption (according to Catholic doctrine), or Dormition (according to Orthodox belief).

We rented a car (as usual) and drove out of town towards Ephesus... We spent about an hour or so at the Virgin Mary house and headed on to Ephesus. I could have taken or left the Virgin Mary house... a historic and religious place to have seen and been to but really not a lot of pizazz here. If and when you go out to Turkey - Ephesus is a place to see! It is HOT there... so plan your day to start here and hit the beaches later.

A Lot of Rock and a Lot of People!

Ephesus was an amazing place to visit.... the history of this place is incredible and the mere fact you can stand where Paul spoke is awesome. Plus Artemis - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World! Really an abundance oh history and relevance.

These are a few pictures of the Library of Celsus... this was my favorite!

Ladies Beach

It wasn't hard getting my hubby to a place called Ladies Beach! This is the most popular beach in Kusadasi and known as the Turkish Riviera. It was named ladies beach as back in the day the beaches were segregated by gender. A great place to spend the afternoon lounging on a beach chair and watching all the people.... definitely not a secluded beach.

Turkish Bazaar

Now this was FUN! Strolling the alleys of the Turkish markets was quite fun and amusing. Hookah shops, handmade Turkish rugs being made and oh the haggling! My favorite were all the "genuine" fake watches... they had everything in the "genuine" market! I walked away with some quirky handmade (I think) pottery. This is the place to go if you love to bargain with the shop owners...

Our Princess Cruise Ship in the background of this amazing shot from a hillside...Gorgeous!

Ahhh...and what afternoon is complete without Happy Hour on the Turkish Riviera. Taking in the sights and the sea and ending our day in Turkey. I am so glad I had the opportunity to visit this diverse country... I still have a lot of exploring to do here but for my first time if was FAB!

Ill leave you with a Turkish Proverb....

Bir elin nesi var, iki elin sesi var.
Two heads are better than one.

My Mykonos

2011-07-13T20:35:00.000-05:00

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos was one of my most favorite Greek islands... Captivated by the whitewashed buildings, the colorful busts of color and the cobblestone streets make this an island you must visit. We started our day by renting a car and traveling to the famous Windmills. The windmills are one of Mykonos most recognized landmarks...and of course a must see!

We had a amazing morning strolling through the cobblestone streets. The best laid plans in Greece are sometimes no plans at all. Around every corner were little hidden secrets of this amazing town.

So go get lost in these streets and see what you can find.

Ahhh....perfection - Handmade Pasta! Really, I mean really!??? Where can you turn a corner and find something so cool to experience! I wanted to put this guy in my suitcase and take him home!

We didn't get a chance to eat here but if we ever go back it is on the list! Seemed to be a very popular place - probably because the greek man making the pasta on the street. Fabulous!

Ahhh...and meet my little pelican pal - Petros (well the legend of Petros)!!!! The pelican is known to be the mascot of the island. There are 3 pelicans that currently reside in Mykonos and they love spending their days drawing attention from passerbyers and lounging around the harbor. The fishermen feed them the catch of the day.... nom nom nom! What a life!

Yet something else I wanted to put in my pocket and take home! This is NO small animal...yet so cakm and relaxed! And when one strays too far... they get a chariot ride back to the town! They are considered royalty.

Little Venice! A Charming Neighborhood with Magnetic Appeal!

Little Venice is one of the most romantic spots in Mykonos.

The Aegean Sea rolls up to these beautiful and colorful whitewashed buildings. Further down the way the walkways open in front of the buildings offering up artist galleries, shops, bars and cafes.

Perfect for an afternoon stroll and if you are lucky the best sunsets on the island!

And We Took to the Beach for Yet Another Afternoon!

Mykonos has fabulous beaches - ah hello...it's a GREEK ISLAND!

What best to complete a day in Mykonos but visiting a great beach... and bar!

We found this great hotel (Manoulas) that was recommended to us and just down the hill from there we encountered this amazing beach and beach bar. Feet in the sand and whisky umbrella shades made this my island paradise!

The beach bar there was Grrrrreeeeaaaatttt! Perfect scenery for a few appetizers and happy hour!

And while on the subject of Happy Hour... Who can visit Greece without experiencing OUZO! 96% alcohol by volume... It was very much like drinking liquorish. Strong and not my drink of choice but another "when in Greece moment!" Again on my soapbox about traveling.... for goodness sake - if you go to these place...please experience them! Experience everything about them that you can in the time allotted! Eat like a local, drink like a local and engulf yourself with the wonders around you. Chances are you wont be back!

We enjoyed traveling here in the month of May and the weather was PERFECT! Tourist traffic is lower on the edge of the high season which is mid to late May and early June. Safe travels my fellow globe trotters!

The traveler was active; he went strenuously in search of people, of adventure, of experience. The tourist is passive; he expects interesting things to happen to him. He goes "sight-seeing." ~Daniel J. Boorstin

A City in Ruins... Athens, Greece

2011-07-10T11:49:00.000-05:00

ATHENS - The Acropolis "High City - In Greek"!

We had one crazy day in Athens....Since we were traveling by cruise ship we had made a plan to make a mad dash for the Acropolis first thing in the morning. We disembarked the ship, negotiated a taxi and were fortunate enough to be one of the first on the hill that morning. This place gets insane not to mention hot as the day progresses. So my advice - be there when it opens to enjoy it as it should be enjoyed and not with thousands of strangers. As you can see from the shot above, people were just arriving. This is an OBVIOUS Athens MUST DO and seeing the Parthenon was amazing.

From the top the views are infinite of the city. That's a lot of rock and stone for one city! Another MUST DO - Is the Changing of the Guards at the Parliament Building in Syntagma Square. A very cool thing to watch and it happens every hour. These guys called the Evzones represent the best of the best as they have to stand over 6ft tall and remain motionless for extended periods of time. And who can pull off shoes with pom poms on them any better!

And while you are there you might notice hundreds/thousands of pigeons! Buy a bag of corn to feed these hungry birds and see what happens. I was a little shocked at the aggressive behavior but it made for a great memory and picture! Do take note that there are people here that will give you a bag of food and then offer to take your picture.... this is a money making scam. If you want a picture - great - if not - stay away and don't take anything from anyone you don't know.

The PLAKA! A City within the city in the shadows of the Acropolis. The Plaka is an awesome way to spend the late morning/early afternoon. Strolling these streets in what is notably the nicest neighborhood in central Athens will charm you. The streets are lined with cafes, jewelry shops, art galleries and tourist shops. We had a wonderful morning here as we people watched and enjoyed a java and a coke.

In the afternoon we did as we normally do and got off the beaten path. We found the Athens Flea Market and made our way inside and outside of this open air market. Locals buy their fish, beef, poultry, produce and fruit here and it is a sight to be seen! Flopping fish and hearing the locals negotiate with each other in Greek is mind blowing. Note- don't wear open toed shoes or flips through this place... fish juice!

We found a hole in the wall place, he disappeared inside and came out with an authentic gyro! This thing was the size of a small animal and cost about a buck fifty! Getting away from the tourist areas will save you money and buy you more authentic cuisine. So when in Athens... do as the locals do!

It's All GREEK to ME!

Dubrovnik, Croatia

2011-07-06T22:36:00.000-05:00

Dubrovnik, Croatia - The Pearl of the Adriatic

A day can easily be spent roaming on and inside the old town walls. History abounds as you step back in time. Start your morning off by buying a ticket and talking the long stroll around the old town walls which were constructed in the 10th century (fortified considerably in 1453). A full walk around the city on the walls is 3.5 miles - It was the best way to start our day and get our bearings in Dubrovnik!

Rent a self guided tour contraption where you buy your tickets for a full history report of what you are seeing as you walk the walls.

The old town is a fully working and functional town. It was so neat seeing the ladies hanging out their laundry on the lines, gardening and going about their daily lives in the midst of touristville! After our journey around the city we did what we do best...found a cafe on the stone streets and shared a drink.

I will say the best place to catch the view and have a beer and glass of vino is BUZA!! This place is hidden in the walls of the city but when you walk out to the cliff you find this amazing place!

Grab a table on the cliff and enjoy the day! We actually tried to find this place when we walked around the city but never could find it. It wasn't till we took a boat ride around the harbor that we saw it! Worth the adventure of finding it...well besides the interesting bathrooms... cliff side!

My Wine at BUZA! Yum... well hey walking the city walls..you earn it!

Enjoy Dubrovnik if you ever have the opportunity to explore this gem!

Oh Canada! Oh Canada!

2011-06-21T22:53:00.000-05:00

OHHHH CANADA!

I have to say this was one of my favorite trips of all time... It was a time to get away and totally disconnect from cell phones, TVs and computers. A wonderful time to just "be".

We flew into Calgary and rented a car... 75% of the rental cars we saw in Canada were PT Cruisers... interesting but true. Gangsta! We found a liquor store and bought a few bottles of wine to take to our cabin. Interesting that a bottle of cheap Yellow Tail wine was double what we pay in the states... It was over $12 a bottle. Canada uses the money they make on the wine/beer/liquor to pay for their citizens health insurance...wow interesting concept. We proceeded up the Trans Canadian Highway into Banff National Park.

A quaint little town named Canmore is where we choose to stop for lunch. This town was adorable..a bit of an artist town. Streets lined with shops and art gallery's and many patio style eatery's. A street fair and art in the park was going on the day we were there...made for some great people watching as we ate at THE GRIZZLY PAW BREWING CO! Rarrrrr! Great variety of beer and a great beer tasting menu. This aways makes the men so happy... for me a Vodka! Edward's favorite was the Nut Brown Beer.

Moraine Lake Lodge...

A Romantic, Secluded, Magical Mountain Getaway!

A view from our cabin!

Moraine Lake Lodge is a cabin system - We had cabin #9! It was perfect! It was just a small stroll from the main lodge and it was set back in the trees with the view above. Floor to ceiling windows, a king bed, a wood burning fireplace and a small deck made this cabin absolutely amazing. The lodge supplies you with everything you need to make fires from dawn till dusk... Every evening we would fall asleep to the crackling pops of wood and every morning I would awake to my sweet hubby making a morning fire.

From the front steps of the cabins you can take off for some amazing hikes... Our first night there we just explored Moraine Lake...there was a nice trail around the lake and a towering 10 peaks as your backdrop. .75 miles each way with a platform overlooking a glacier water stream that feeds Moraine Lake. AMAZING!

BANFF, CANADA

It's a MOUNTIE!

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

A little German Pub on the golf course at the Fairmont - Great place to grab a few drinks and some sunny rays!

Banff is a cute town... but it is very much a touristy town. Typical things like souvenirr shops and bars line the streets. Great place to stop in for an afternoon. Canada has so much to offer and Banff National Park is full of fun if you just dare to venture out. We just took off in our car one day and found a lot of special memories along the way. We came upon Natural Bridge and the Canada's 2nd largest/tallest waterfall - Takkakaw Falls...just because we got out of town! YoHo National Park...

Emerald Lake... A Hidden Gem! Emerald lake is worth a visit or a stay... Emerald Lake Lodge is on this lake. A place we are sure to stay in the future! Pictures don't do this place justice....just like Moraine Lake. I never knew places like this existed till my trip here. Quintessential nature and God's amazing creations.

The Rockpile at Moraine Lake...

After our day of exploring we headed back to our lodge for dinner. Before dinner we made one last hike to the "Rockpile". A short walk/hike in return for these amazing views... speechless!

A view from the Rockpile of Moraine Lake Lodge.....

Oh a Hiking We Will Go!

Larch Valley

This was a steep and long climb to the top with 10 switchbacks leading into the valley. We started off with many layers of clothing and as we hiked and our bodies warmed we shed them. Then they were back on again. This hike was like walking into Narnia. We started in sunny cold weather and hiked into snowflakes and ultimately into frigid pelting ice storms... It was like walking through the seasons. I have never experienced anything quite like it! We climbed over 2000 ft in elevation and hiked 3.7 miles to the top. The highest point you can climb on a marked path in Banff National Park.

Off For Another Hike....

Lake Agnes Tea House

This tea house that was build in 1901 sits high up in the mountains and is only accessible by hikers. It is a great place to stop for a cup of coffee or coco as you take a break from the hiking. There is no other way to this place besides hiking to it. Everything sold up there has to be brought up by the employees on their hikes into work. Also all trash has to be hauled down each day.... Makes for a limited menu but a very special place. It's worth the hike of 3.4km.

Some of my favorite things from our Canadian Getaway:

Canadian Wild Flowers

The smell of wood burning in our fireplace

Oodles of covers to keep you warm in the cold nights

Sleeping with the doors open

Clean Mountain Air

Cold Yummy Water straight from the faucet

No power lines at our Lodge - pure and clean!

Blue water lakes - rock flour!

Random Mountain Streams and Waterfalls

Glaciers

Hiking through the seasons

Northface Fleeces

Trading in high heels for Uggs

Being the first set of footprints in fresh snow in Sentinel Pass

NYC: A Few of My Favorite Do's!

2011-05-09T22:48:00.000-05:00

Do: Book an Early Early Flight... Perks might include a semi-private jet and all you can drink Mimosas and Bloody Mary's!

Do: Rent a Limo to take you to the hotel... Really it is your only option when you have luggage like we did! Plus a super stretch limo is cheaper than a cab - especially if you are a group of girls!

Do: Make this a girls trip!

Do: Eat & Drink (calories don't count) - cause you know you will DANCE it off!

Do: See a Live Talk Show! Regis and Kelly was Amazing - Neil Patrick Harris filled in for Regis and he was so adorable!

Do: Dare to do something different! Life is short - Live it up!

Do: Make a difference wherever you go! These little girls thought we were a traveling show and begged for a photo with us! One day they might just remember to let loose and be silly whenever the opportunity arises!

Do: Wear Tutu's as an adult and go ice skating in Central Park!

Do: Experience NYC with a "First Timer" and take them to SoHo on the Subway!

Do: SoHo Shopping and share an afternoon cocktail with your besties!

Do: Take in the different districts including a night of dancing at Collective in the Meatpacking District!

Do: Take in Central Park in the Snow!

Do: Remember!

Santorini, Greece - A Little Piece of Heaven!

2011-05-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Santorini, Greece!

I use to dream about visiting Santorini...then last last year my dream became a reality. When researching our trip we knew this was one stop we had to make. We docked (tendered - Santorini is shallow since the ship anchors in the middle of the sunken volcano) early in the morning and Edward and I immediately took off for our self guided and planned day. When it comes to travel we like to go off the beaten path - thus planning our own day and not conforming to "cruise tours". We took the tender over to Thira - Thira is the official name of Santorini. Once getting on the island we had the opportunity to take a cable car up to the town or a donkey...so what did we do.... we took the DONKEY! When in Santorini....this is just what you have to do. How many chances do we have to do this....so my advise - take the donkey!

Remember - the memories are in your experiences!

**Do make sure you take or wear pants - ladies you do not want to do this in a dress!**

After our heehaw ride to the top... we rented a 4 wheeler to take and use for our day on the island. This is the way to go... it's easy and you will have it for the day so you can travel all over the island.

After renting our 4 wheeler we headed out to Oia (pronounced 'Ia') - an awesome village in Santorini... it is located at the north end of the island. If you have seen pics of Santorini, it is probably from this area....

Whitewash buildings and painted blue roofs make this a unique and stunning place to begin your day. There are shops, restaurants, art galleries, hotels and residences tucked away in every crevasse of the mountain. Pictures don't do it justice. It is calm and peaceful in the morning before all the tourist are out and about. This is a high traffic area in the afternoon and the high seasons of June, July and August. We were lucky traveling in late May to be the only cruise ship in port.

If you are looking for a picture perfect place to grab a cappuccino or a half carafe of wine...look no further. Lotza had "lotza" great reasons to stop in.... Talk about an amazing view.... Not a bad table in the place and it has something big going for it...Location, Location, Location. The pic below was taken from the ladies room...and yes I opted for the carafe of wine :)

After our morning stroll through Oia we hopped back on our wheeler and headed to one of the many amazing beaches.... First top BLACK BEACH. Santorini is a sunken volcano - lava rock makes up black beach - giving it such an original name.

We opted to spend our time at Mera Beach Bar having a few drinks and enjoying the hot sand. The we headed our to another unique experience at RED BEACH.

Red Beach is a bit more secluded and more challenging to get to. Tucked away in a lagoon, Red Beach offered a rocky and red feel between your toes. You will have to hike about a 1/4 mile in to reach this popular hidden treasure. It's well worth the hike and the euros you will pay for a chair. Everyone has white beaches but it is a true treat to go to a red and black beach on the same island.

We left our rainbow beaches and headed for some authentic Greek grub. We found this little gem as we drove through this mini town just past red beach.

The food is no lie - fabulous!!!!!!! A plate full of Greek Heaven should be a dishes name. There was some fried cheese contraption that was sooooooo good! The wine is also very good in Greece. The really don't serve "glasses of wine" - they serve "carafes of wine" - its like a whole bottle. You can order a 1/2 carafe though...you know for when you don't want to indulge too much. haha!

Santorini is amazing and any chance you get to go - take it! Remember to make your own experiences based on what you like to do. Its an island and you can get a map... so go get lost and eat some great authentic food, drink lots of wine and stop to be silly!

Welcome to Miami (bienvenido a Miami)!

2011-04-26T20:35:00.000-05:00

A Place where the fish is delish!

A trip to Miami just isn't complete without eating at Joe's Stone Crab! Located in Miami Beach this is a must do for anyone looking to create a Miami tradition. I have been lucky enough to experience Joe's twice! The raw bar, the lobster the size of a shoe and the crab claws are delish....words can't describe! I can throw down on some lobster tail - their tail is so large you will have leftovers to create an awesome lobster salad the next day. It's not lobster - it's blobster!

Find your way there - you won't be disappointed! And for those that can't make it to Miami... you can visit them online and order direct to your door. Very tempting!!! My taste buds are freaking out.... Where oh where is my sailing captain????

For those of you that have been please share your experience!

Venice, Italy - Tourist Trap or Fairy Tale???

2011-04-11T21:45:00.000-05:00

Ciao Friends! The sinking city has somewhat of a curiosity factor to it... Shall we see it now or maybe never at all. I wasn't going to let the opportunity to visit this particular place past me by. Some choose to go to Las Vegas to experience this city as an amusement park but I choose to take it on to see what it is really all about. I am not a "touristy" kind of person... I actually cant stand that aspect of traveling. Hords of people doing everything that everyone else tells them to do is in no way my idea of a good time. Sure there are things you have to see - but make it your journey not someone elses. One of my reasons for writing this blog is to offer ideas of things to do that aren't included in a shore excursion brochure. So here we go... Venice Style!

First of all - DON'T EXCHANGE MONEY AT THE AIRPORT! Bad idea... Best bet - ATM's! You get a much better rate and without all the add on fees associated with it. We may of learned the hard way here but you live and learn...then you find an ATM.

Experience a Water Taxi - worth the money and a fun way to enter the city.

It's kind of like a fancy speedboat....

Seeing Venice from the water is a must do - however the fairy tale of the guy (the gondolier) playing the violin while you gaze romantically into your sweeties eyes while kissing under every bridge for good luck....well you decide if this is something you want to do. Its on average over $100 for a 20/30 min ride and its usually not private. We got just as much out of our water taxi ride and it was just as spectacular during our sunset arrival to Venice.

Piazza San Marco - By Day - Crowded - By Night - Romantic

Like Venice's Grand Central Station! - the popular gathering area and home to San Marco Basilica, Doge's Palace and Basilica's Campanile!

Seeing Piazza San Marco at night is a nice treat... Each restaurant has small orchestras playing, the water in the city is rising and the atmosphere is uber romantic... the romance that Italy is known for. Hang out in the square for a while after dark and it is quite an experience to see the city sink before your eyes. Stick your feet in it and enjoy! This is where you make the experience what is to YOU!

No Coperto! Seriously Don't Pay Coperto! Coperto = Ripoff!

In Venice and many European cities they have a "cover charge" to even sit down at their restaurant or bar. Part of the ambiance of a city like Venice are the sidewalk cafes. Enjoying your food and wine and people watching are super fun to do almost anywhere and especially in Venice. But beware before your but hits that seat that you have negotiated and/or made sure there is no coperto! See the sign below - we found a great place just off the beaten path to grab a few glasses of some Italian Vino and chow on some delish Italian Food! Perfecto!

If only a day in Venice - My Advice - GET LOST!

Seriously - Venice is surrounded by water...what is the worst that can happen! Take off for the day and plan to just "get lost"! Wonder around the city, stop in coffee shops, eat fresh pastries, find an open market and wonder "who eats this crap!"

Grab a gelato and sit and rest your tush.... But watch out for the Pigeons! They are everywhere... grab some bread and feed them for an interesting photo op!

And because it's FAMOUS - go see the Rialto Bridge. The Rialto bridge is the most noted bridge that crosses the Grand Canal. Two ramps lead to a portico where hoards of visitors come to enjoy the day, grab a photo of the grand canal and shop for leather good and Venetian masks.

A view from the Crown Princess leaving Venice.... Piazza San Marco from above!

ARRIVEDERCI - BUON VIAGGIO!

(Good bye - Have a safe journey!)

For the Love...Stick a PIN in IT!

2011-04-04T20:27:00.000-05:00

Its probably bad that I think of travel more than anything else during the day. After a brief self diagnosis I have figured it out.....I'm a functioning travelaholic!! I manage to work and live daily but I thirst for travel. I did leave my job and life as I know it on land to live on a cruise ship!! **Another blog for another day.** I am creating this blog (aka addiction) as my creative outlet thus giving me a reason to think, write and explore all avenues of travel. I will write and share about the places I have been and the adventures I recommend hoping you will join me on this life journey.

So stow your tray tables and put your seats in their upright position - It's time for takeoff!

The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. ~ St. Augustine