Authentic/Local Experiences

Experiencing the Penguins of Antarctica

By Carol Rowland / December 8, 2021 / Comments Off on Experiencing the Penguins of Antarctica

As I look to the exciting trips I have planned for the future, one of my most anticipated is the Antarctica cruise in January 2023. I was never interested in this until my husband mentioned he wanted to go to there; once I started researching and I saw how totally fascinating the experience is, Antarctica…

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The Taste of Greece

By Carol Rowland / October 13, 2021 / Comments Off on The Taste of Greece

Since Greece is one of my favorites, and a great destination right now as it is quite easy to navigate the Covid rules, I thought I would tempt you with all of the fabulous food that you can enjoy on a trip to Greece… The Taste of Greece: An Introduction to Greek Food & Drink…

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Sushi Experiences from Conveyor to Fancy

By Carol Rowland / August 12, 2021 / Comments Off on Sushi Experiences from Conveyor to Fancy

For my trip to Japan, I was determined to learn to love sushi (despite my appreciation and preference for actually cooking food), and while there we had a variety of sushi experiences. In honor of the Olympics and my love of food as culture, I share more about this significant culinary export from Japan… Sushi…

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The Art of the Japanese Tea Ceremony

By Carol Rowland / July 21, 2021 / Comments Off on The Art of the Japanese Tea Ceremony

Friday is the Opening Ceremony of the Olympics in Tokyo, and I’m sure that beyond all the athletic events, there will be quite a bit of coverage highlighting Japan cities and experiences. My trip to Japan two years ago is one of my favorites ever, and I am enamored with the fascinating cultural traditions. In…

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The mystical intrigue of the Northern Lights

By Carol Rowland / May 12, 2021 / Comments Off on The mystical intrigue of the Northern Lights

I’m busy planning many future trips, and bucket list experiences are at the forefront, as folks are ready to travel and make sure they see some of their top desires. One magical experience on many lists, including mine, is seeing the Northern Lights, so I though I’d share a bit about this beautiful phenomenon. An…

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Culture and Culinary Experiences in Los Cabos

By Carol Rowland / May 5, 2021 / Comments Off on Culture and Culinary Experiences in Los Cabos

Last week I had the opportunity to explore the Los Cabos area of Mexico with our hosts from Visit Los Cabos and Delta, going beyond the sun and beach scene of the all-inclusive resorts to learn how this area can satisfy travel yearnings for cultural discoveries, epicurean experiences, and diverse local encounters. For those of…

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Experiencing an Onsen in Japan

By Carol Rowland / April 21, 2021 / Comments Off on Experiencing an Onsen in Japan

Last week there was news of the 100-day countdown to the Olympics in Japan, and it’s sad visitors won’t be able to attend. Japan is one of my favorite trips ever, as I love the cultural influences that are so different from ours. Today I share a unique aspect of Japanese tradition… Experiencing an Onsen…

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An authentic experience that has nothing to do with being green…

By Carol Rowland / March 17, 2021 / Comments Off on An authentic experience that has nothing to do with being green…

Today is Saint Patrick’s Day, so we’ll see a lot on TV and social media with green clothes, green hair and green beer in celebration. But since Ireland is my special place (I normally go once or twice a year), I want to share an aspect of the Irish culture that I think is one…

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Exploring the Bordeaux wine region of France

By Carol Rowland / March 10, 2021 / Comments Off on Exploring the Bordeaux wine region of France

This week’s topic is about a fascinating wine region of France that is well worth a visit…  Exploring the Bordeaux wine region of France  When you think of France, many things come to mind. Fresh bread, gorgeous alpine scenery, flaky pastries, and the Eiffel Tower. One of France’s most famous exports, however, is wine. And…

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How are Japanese gardens different from other gardens you’ll see traveling?

By Carol Rowland / February 17, 2021 / Comments Off on How are Japanese gardens different from other gardens you’ll see traveling?

I’m still dreaming of future trips and remembering past travels, and one of my favorites was my trip to Japan a couple years ago. Japan is a fabulous destination, and today I share one of the many aspects that make it so inviting… How are Japanese gardens different from other gardens you’ll see traveling? I…

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