Home Archives for Travel

12 Places That Make Montenegro Dreamy

May 5, 2015 By 1

From the beach, bumming luxury-lover to the hiking history-buff, Montenegro is a country that’s vibrant, dynamic and filled with wild beauty that makes the country dreamy. Depending on your accommodations, choices of food and length of stay, a trip to Montenegro could be a history-filled outdoors adventure, quick and cheap holiday or a luxurious getaway – and that’s the best part about it: you can make it anything you want it to be.

Here are 12 places around Montenegro that I feel fortunate that I am surrounded by and they need to be placed on your next travel itinerary.

1. Tara Canyontara-canyon
2. Stari BarStariBar
3. Sveti Stefansvetistefan
4. Kotorkotor
5. Jaz and Bečići Beaches, Budvabudvabeach
6. Lake Skadarlakeskadar
7. Biogradska Gorabiogradskagora
8. Velika Plaža, Ulcinjvelikaplaza
9. Porto Montenegro, TivatPortoMontenegro
10. Our Lady of the Rocksladyoftherocks
11. Ostrog Monasteryostrogmonastery
12. LovćenLovcen

You’re almost completely guaranteed good weather in Montenegro in the Spring. Later on in the summer, you can expect about 12 hours of sunshine a day and temperatures in the 30s (80s – 90s Fahrenheit). You’ll also hardly see a drop of rain in July and August. Since moving to Montenegro, I am a big fan of this country in this month (April), May, September and October, when the weather is a cooler and the crowds are much smaller. You’ll still see plenty of sun, but the temperature will be more comfortable, around the mid 20s (70s Fahrenheit).

Do you have any suggestions on where to go or what to see in Montenegro? Leave them in the comments below!

City Wonders Ancient Rome

April 28, 2015 By 0

CityWondersDark Rome Tours, a City Wonders brand, offers small group tours in Italy with expert, English-speaking guides and Skip the Line Access to help you get the best from your vacation. After being suggested to try Dark Rome Tours from our friends at Blogger Bridge, I reached out to them telling them that a girlfriend and I would be visiting Rome for the day, and they graciously booked us for the “Skip the Line: Colosseum Tour with Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.” We were pleased beyond our expectation!

Our Italian guide’s name was Davide, and he was entertaining from the start. His English vocabulary was better than some Americans that I know. 😉 We walked around historic Rome (Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill) for three hours and Davide shared stories – some that I knew and others that I hadn’t. We use headsets, which was helpful because we could wander away from our guide but still hear him.AncientRomeThe Colosseum is one of the iconic tourist attractions in the world with thousands of visitors each year. The crowds are huge and the waiting time can be long. Fortunately, we walked by quickly after getting our bags checked through security. The hill is the centermost of the Seven Hills of Rome and is one of the most ancient parts of the city. It stands 40 meters above the Forum Romanum, looking down upon it on one side and upon the Circus Maximus on the other.

The Colosseum was built between 70 – 80 AD by Emperors Vespasian and Titus and could hold between 50,000 and 80,000 people. It was used primarily for gladiator contests and special events, such as mock sea battles and wild animal hunts. A gladiator school was built adjacent to the structures and wild animals were housed in the underground portion of the Colosseum. The structure is considered an architectural achievement of the Roman Empire.ColosseumFloorWe learned that the Roman Forum was the town center of Rome. It was the political, religious and shopping center. It contained the Senate, speakers platform, temples and shops. Unfortunately, marble and metals from the structures in Rome were removed from the Roman Forum and the Colosseum to build churches and other structures during medieval times. Davide asked us every step of the way, “Why do you think that this ancient structure is still here?” The answer was because it had been redeemed as a church or the words on the arches honored God. If they did not, but they exhausted the Roman gods, Constantine and rulers that followed destroyed the temples.SenateThe 15th century Church of St Lawrence was built with Roman Forum marble. The Temple of Saturn, built in 490 BC, is believed to be the oldest temple in the Roman Forum. The Roman Forum area was originally swampy and formerly used burial ground. The Roman engineers found a way to build proper drainage, which made the construction of the Colosseum possible. They build the first basilica here, which original was a meeting place for the Romans not a church as modern people now them to be.SaturnFollowing our tour of the Roman Forum, we made our way uphill to the famous Palatine Hill, the home of the Roman Emperors, which overlooks the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. It is a popular tourist destination and provides a great view of the surrounding area.PalatineHillDavide was extremely knowledgeable and interesting. I was very pleased with the quality of the tour and guide. It was nice to have a guide to point out interesting things at all three sites. I can’t imagine visiting the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill without a guide like Davide, who really enriched the experience. Our tour ended in Palatine Hill which afforded us the opportunity to linger longer after the tour was done.

This was an amazing tour experience for us – priceless memories that will last a lifetime. We fell in love with ancient Rome. I would not hesitate to use them again. I find that a good guide always enhances my experience, no matter how much I know about a site. A guide also helps me focus on what specifically interests me. I like the idea of someone else taking care of the details. 😉 Because Davide packed this tour with some much history and interesting facts, I could not imagine writing and sharing all the stories. That being said, it is worth booking this Dark Rome tour the next time you are in Rome.

When in Rome, explore as the Romans did! 😉

10 Things to Do in Naples, Italy

April 25, 2015 By 0

NaplesBuon Giorno, Naples, Italy! The legend tells that the origin of Naples is due to the mermaid Parthenope who killed herself in the Gulf of Naples because Ulysses refused her love. Maybe that’s why Naples is characterized by the cohabitation of opposites: good and evil, joy and sadness, beauty and decay. Personally I can’t get enough of this city – you can’t explain the love a girl has for the Mediterranean coast! We all know that we must eat pizza here, but did you also think about these 10 things?

1. Eat Pizza Perfection
Naples is the home of pizza. They take it so seriously that in 2004, the ministry for agriculture issued regulations outlining how a real Neapolitan pizza, Pizza Verace Napoletana, should be made. Look for the sign outside pizzerie to sample one of the three authentic types: pizza napoletana marinara (San Marzano tomatoes from Vesuvius’ slopes, garlic, oregano and olive oil), pizza napoletana margherita (mozzarella) and pizza napoletana margherita DOC (buffalo mozzarella). Try Sorbillo for truly excellent dough and the finest topping ingredients. We discovered Pizza Fritta con il Segreto (fried calzone).FriedPizza2. Visit Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius
For history lovers, no trip to Naples would be complete without a trip to Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. The archaeological sites have remained firmly embedded in most people’s memories since history class at school.

3. Drink up the Coffee Culture
Any coffee aficionado with even a passing knowledge of Italy’s food culture will know that Naples is famous for coffee, too. Neapolitan coffee is short and very, very strong. I mean, it would be sinful not to sip cappuccino while hanging out with girlfriends or people watching. 😉Cappuccino4. Walk on the Lungomore
The long seafront stroll from Santa Lucia to Mergellina is a classic weekend promenade.

5. Grab a Gelato
Neapolitans are passionate about ice cream, so you can expect the best. When it comes to flavors, most gelaterie offer a bewildering array, broken down into crema (creamy) and frutta (fruit) varieties. Our favorite gelaterie in town is Casa Infante Artigiani Del Gelato. Gelato here achieves the perfect balance between creamy and light, with the best Amalfi lemon in town. Ask for “fontana di cioccolato” for a delicious treat at the end of your gelato. 😉 Thanks, April, for the tip!Gelato6. Stroll through Naples Royalty
Three stops are critical for any visitor interested in the history of the Napeolitan royalty: Castel Nuovo was built in 1279 by Charles of Angiono, and today houses Naples’ museo civico, with Neopolitan artworks spanning the 15th-20th century – don’t miss the views from the fortress towers. The numerous apartments at Palazzo Reale (Royal Palace) today house a collection of paintings, frescoes, tapestries, chandeliers and furniture from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Designed by Luigi Vanvitelli, Villa Comunale was inaugurated in 1781 as the garedini reali (royal park). There is a magnificent bandstand, built in 1887, and the small-is-beautiful Stazione Zoologica.

7. Wander Aimlessly Along Spaccanapoli
The best way to enjoy the historic center of Naples is to wander without a plan. The storico antico is at once ancient and modern – the street plan is older than the hills and the buildings have contained shops and apartments for centuries. But unlike some kind of preserved museum piece, the old center is very much alive. It’s a densely populated area and the locals don’t slow down for tourists.

8. Shop Until You Drop
Naples is one of the cheaper cities of Italy. Stroll the streets of Naples, as in all the port cities, you’ll see improvised markets and choreographic negotiations. Pay attention! They want to cheat you. Welcome in the full neapolitan tradition, you just received a pacco (pack or to trick someone). Therefore, I recommend visiting little shops that specialize in Italian leather goods and culinary delights. The aroma as you enter the shops is mesmerizing. I may have come home with some of these souvenirs. 😉ItalianShops9. Grab a Granita
While you are walking around town, grab a granita di limone, a rough-cut sorbet found at stalls around Naples. An even rougher sorbet is la grattata, with ice scraped on demand off a large chunk and doused with flavored syrup or lemon juice.

10. Sail to Capri or Around the Coast of NaplesSailing

Hotel ZaZa’s Annual Spring Soiree

April 24, 2015 By 0

Hotel ZaZaAs the spring party circuit continues to forge ahead, what’s another happy social that lauds the philanthropy and business scene that keeps Dallas on the international map? The stylish, storied Hotel ZaZa in Dallas has played host to many affairs — including conferences, luncheons, fundraising galas and private events — so Hotel Zaza wanted to show their appreciation at their annual Spring Soiree held on Thursday, April 23rd.

The spirit of “Living the Sweet Life” descended upon the poolside of hotel for this retro-themed springtime fete, despite the threat of rain. The beautiful and interesting people of Dallas were out in full force wearing their most sophisticated Spring attire.  Waiters served delicious appetizer bites by Hotel ZaZa’s Dragonfly restaurant and the beat was provided by DJ Sober and DSQ Electric.

Much of the attention went to the models floating in the pool on inflatable swans (yes, I said swans).  At the height of the evening girls wearing polka dot dresses paraded into the pool area holding sparklers! Many guests were striking a pose in front of their signature Z for photo opps, like my husband and me did for a fun date night.
150424_024900

Hotel ZaZa5Hotel ZaZa 3

Hotel ZaZa6
Hotel ZaZa is located in the heart of Uptown Dallas where it’s all happening.  The Hotel and Dragonfly Restaurant has a very stylish, upscale and funky vibe.  If you haven’t been, you have to go and experience it for yourself.

Hotel Zaza
2332 Leonard St, Dallas, TX 75201
214.468.8399

Colorado Bound!

April 14, 2015 By 0

When you think of Colorado you usually imagine the majestic Rocky Mountains, lots of beautiful white snow, and some of America’s most incredible skiing.  Our family goes at least once a year for a family ski vacation.  We’ve been to several different ski resorts in Colorado and they all have something to offer but one of our favorite destinations in Colorado is Breckenridge and the surrounding area. Breckenridge is just a short drive (approximately 1 ½ hours) from Denver.  It’s located in the Summit County Area which is surrounded by three mountain ranges and is home to several world class ski areas that include Keystone, Copper Mountain, Frisco and Silverthorne.  It’s sometimes called Colorado’s “Playground” because there is so much to do and see!

Breckenridge Christmas Card

Breckenridge or “Breck” as the locals refer to it, is known worldwide as a top winter destination.  It has 155 ski runs and includes a new 543 acre expansion on Peak 6.  The slopes offer all kinds of ski and snowboard terrain.  Don’t ski?  Try snow tubing, sleigh and dog sledding, snowmobiling, and ice skating.  There’s no excuse to stay inside!

IMG_0332

Breckenridge Summer 2006

 

Tired of the same old summer beach vacation?  Then head for Colorado this summer!  One of our favorite family summer vacation trips was in Breckenridge.  There is an endless list of things for families to do!   Summit County has a 10 mile interconnecting system of wide paved paths for walking, bike riding, rollerblading, and running.  You can race down the Gold Runner Coaster, which is an elevated Alpine slide located on Peak 8 Fun Pack.  Pan for gold or take the family white water rafting on the Blue River.  The area is a paradise for camping, hiking, fly fishing, and backpacking.  Enjoy the beautiful nearby Dillon Reservoir.  You can go fishing, boating, or simply sit on the shores and enjoy the view of the water and mountains.

Breckenridge Summer 2006.jpg2

Personally my favorite thing about Breckenridge is the historic and quaint downtown area.  It’s a shopper’s paradise including several unique boutiques that include everything from designer jeans and cupcakes to locally made goods and imported olive oils and vinegars.  There’s also over 70 restaurants to choose from with not a franchise in sight.  You can easily explore the town on foot or take a horse drawn carriage just for fun!  Breck is becoming one of the state’s emerging art towns and hosts monthly art walks.  The town has also become well known for its Brewery.  You can tour and sample their award winning premium bourbon whiskey.   The summer fun kicks off with the opening of Breckenridge Fun Park June 12 – 21, gold panning, a bike festival and Kingdom Days.  For more information go to: http://www.gobreck.com/events/event-calendar

Breckenridge Downtown 3

Take at least one day to drive over to the Historic town of Georgetown and take a train trip on the Georgetown Loop Railroad!  It’s an old time steam locomotive that chugs its way up the canyon to Silver Plume.  The trip has breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and you can hop off halfway and tour the historic Lebanon Silver Mines.  Our kids loved this outing!  The train runs several times a day from April 30th through December 30th.  For more information go to:  http://www.georgetownlooprr.com/

Breckenridge Summer 2006.jpg4

Be sure to visit Historic Downtown Georgetown for a taste of Colorado’s mining history. Self-guided walking tours of the town are available. One of my favorite places in Georgetown is the legendary Hotel De Paris Museum built in 1875 by Louis Dupuy during the silver mining boom. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The hotel included a first class French restaurant, a showroom for traveling salesmen, and was considered a luxurious hotel during the Gilded Age.  To further delight your kids, the hotel has been rumored to be haunted!  May 23rd is the opening date for the 2015 Season.   For more information about this historic building and tours go to:   http://www.hoteldeparismuseum.org/

Breckenridge Summer 2006.jpg3

Would you like information about other Colorado destinations?  Go to:  http://www.colorado.com/