Orhan Cam
In an intensely grumpy, topsy-turvy election year in the United States, many politicians and citizens alike just love to inveigh against Washington and all it stands for. But as an urban experience, I can tell you as a former resident that DC can be a wonderful place to live. And certainly to visit - as many Americans do every year. And especially now, as they begin a long holiday weekend for their Independence Day on July Fourth, those who hit the road and make a week of it – especiall
Usa (91)
There will be even more reasons to ranch this year, properties across the U.S. West catering to the wannabe cowhand and the luxury city slicker.
Tony Daly, managing director of London-based dude ranch clearinghouse Ranch Rider, observes, “With WestJet announcing direct flights from London Gatwick to various Canadian destinations and America’s National Park Service celebrating its centenary, there will be even more reason to hit the trail this year. Canada is currently great value for Bri
We recently toured the USA's second oldest military service academy, a 338-acre campus founded in Maryland's capital in 1845, learning about its history of the academy and what life is like for those who have the honor of attending. The tour starts in the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center where there are several interesting displays. The fee is $10.50 for adults, less $9.50 for seniors and $8.50 for children. The number of visitors in each tour is limited so reservations are suggested and those 16
The USA's national parks are indeed a treasure. But we may not always be within a short drive of one. State parks, on the other hand, are more plentiful, often found within shorter distances and can provide a satisfying alternative for a decent "nature fix." A recent invitation to join a group of friends for a weekend at Turkey Run State Park in Indiana was just the ticket.
As many state parks do, Turkey Run offers a variety of lodging options - in this case, an inn, cabins, and
No doubt about it - as you read this, Maryland's largest city, Baltimore, is going through its most wrenching moment in decades. But while like every single large U.S. city, it has its problems, the current difficulties are centered in West Baltimore, home to a fraction of the city's 622,000-plus residents - and caused by a thuggish element that's taken advantage of a tragedy to inflict yet more tragedy on an already stressed community.No doubt about it, this localized eruption was a long time
Recently tthis month, even as we head toward the end of the year marking the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, I found myself visiting America's oldest continuously occupied city, St. Augustine, for the first time since a long-ago trip with my family as a kid. I expected to find some of the same things - the massive old Castillo San Marcos fort and the historic downtown, of course, plus a whole raft of new amenities and attractions. And that I certainly did. But I also found somethin
#SipIdaho
Move over potatoes, grapes are coming. Idaho’s state slogan was “famous potatoes”, it has evolved to “great potatoes, tasty destinations”; undoubtedly, at least in part, due to the wonderful wines being produced along the Snake River Valley. With a climate akin to the Columbia Valley in Washington State, and elevations similar to Spain’s Rioja region, Idaho produces primarily Bordeaux and Spanish varietals, with a smattering of German vines. While some wine was produced here as far
Oklahoma´s capital (pop. around 681,000) is a place that exudes charm, character, a dash of sorrow, and overall a spirit that inspires visitors to live their lives more meaningfully. There´s the proverbial something for everyone here, and I recently spent three fascinating days it all - and like others who came before me and those who will follow… my soul was changed forever.
Arriving at the easy breezy Will Rogers Airport I picked up my luggage in record time and headed off to the
There’s a lot to be said for Southern hospitality. There’s much more to be said experiencing it for yourself. I was very fortunate to do just that in a five-day trip to St. Simons Island, Georgia. For a traveling wine aficionado and foodie like me, this has got to be one of my top three trips this year. It’s quite clear that Southern hospitality focuses heavily on food and the role it plays in daily life and social interaction. Add some great wines, amazing beaches and fun activities… and Voila!
The current building, and second hotel on the site, was built in 1908 on the site where Andrew Jackson had his military headquarters during the War of 1812. In the lobby, above a plush, circular banquette, is a beautiful domed Tiffany skylight. The ornate molding has the portraits in the corners of the four leaders who ruled over Mobile: Louis XIV of France, English king George III, Spain´s Ferdinand V, and our very own George Washington.
The Four Diamond hotel has been a favorite of entert
It’s not often I get the opportunity to right a wrong or set the record straight while thoroughly immersing myself in sugar white beaches, clear blue ocean waves, and warm tropical breezes. Pair that with total engagement in culinary nirvana, a high-end waterfront condo stay, art, music and eco-friendly golf cart tours and I can truly say I’ve lived the life of an oil-free Diva in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama.
A few weeks back the Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism Bureau invited me to
