There are vestiges of the Roman Empire scattered across most of Europe, showcasing the talent of its craftsmen, artisans, and architects. Whether it’s the tiniest gold earrings in a museum case, a villa with an intricately detailed mosaic floor, or an ancient amphitheater still in use today; all show skills well ahead of their time.
Bali … it’s one of those take-your-breath-away destinations. You ask yourself, Where has this place been all of my life?
Sunday morning is the perfect time to explore any new city. The tranquility makes it easy to see the bones of the place without the people, traffic, and workaday commotion – and there’s no better way to do it than on foot.
Other than sex, there seems to be no stronger temptation in this world than chocolate. That luscious, dark confection can bring strong men to their knees and make smart women swoon.
There’s no denying that Petra is a place that inspires superlatives. It’s one of the world’s über-famous archaeological sites, and like most first-time visitors, we were astounded. With vibrant red, white and pink sandstone cliffs carved into beautiful, ornate temples and tombs, the city is absolutely awe-inspiring.
Like many young couples, as soon as we could afford it, we went to Europe. These were the days of Arthur Frommer’s Europe On $25 A Day, Rick Steves’ Europe Through The Back Door, and Eurail Passes were the way to get around.
Bangkok is an assault on the senses. Mad Max tuk-tuks careen wildly through traffic while the Skytrain glides effortlessly above. Sleep-deprived backpackers rub elbows with cellphone-toting monks and neighborhood masseuses.
It must say something about the architectural genius involved when an empty room without any furnishings, is still stunning. Continue reading
Toledo’s most popular attraction and strongest tour-group magnet is Catedral Primada Santa María de Toledo (Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary of Toledo). Continue reading
Not a day passes without news of a religious conflict somewhere in the world. But there was a time and place where Jews, Muslims, and Christians lived together peacefully – where ideas were exchanged on art, architecture, science, and yes, even religion. Continue reading
What drew us to one of Madrid’s busiest plazas was the attractive turn-of-the-century Palicio de Cibeles. This gleaming-white Gothic revival beauty is among the city’s best-known landmarks and is home to the City Council. Continue reading
The old adage says that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and I guess that’s true. But what if it’s also an extraordinary work of ceramic art and a valuable source of information on fashion, diet, and the lifestyles of wealthy families of Spain in the late-1700s. Continue reading
Spain defines the word passion. From flamenco and bullfights, to pintxos and paella, life is embraced with gusto. The country’s long, rich history is evident in its art, architecture, cuisine, and the daily lives of its people. Continue reading
Many of you know that we fell in love with ajvar on our trip to the Balkans. We ate it almost daily, and it’s become a regular menu item at home. We became so enamored with the delicious spread that we vowed to make our own when we got home. Continue reading
