Savoring Norway: 3 Unforgettable Ports of Call

by Noreen Kompanik

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Norway had always been on my travel bucket list; my husband’s too! So, when our daughter and son-in-law proposed a Disney family cruise with our grandchildren that would include three Norway ports of call, we jumped on it. Cruises are great for a number of reasons, including the opportunity to get snapshots of a region

New Zealand’s Delightful Wine Village

by Pam Baker

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Located in the southeastern region of New Zealand’s North Island lies the Wairarapa, an area of big skies, wide valleys and small towns full of character. And in the Wairarapa, at the heart of the classic New Zealand Wine Trail, is Martinborough, a delightful wine village with a population of 1,680. It’s here that some

Coast to Vine: Getting to Know Spectacular San Luis Obispo County

by Noreen Kompanik

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Wheels up, and we were off on Alaska Airlines’ inaugural flight from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, California. As we approached our destination, we could see the lush verdant rolling hills of SLO (its local nickname). But its moniker is a perfect fit, for this magnificently picturesque region represents a slower, more relaxed pace;

The Sonoma County Wine is Back After Devastating Wildfires

by Pam Baker

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Lush green rolling hills filled with vineyards, historic small towns, and 50 miles of stunning Pacific Coast—this is Sonoma County. Chardonnay and pinot noir reign supreme here in a climate blessed with ample days of sunshine and cooling sea breezes. Less touristy and less congested than its famous neighbor, Napa County, Sonoma has long been

13 Unique Places to Visit in 2020

by Christine Cutler

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This year is going to be anything but boring. Tokyo is going to host the Summer Olympics, while Sapporo will hold its Snow Festival. Jamaica will be celebrating the late Bob Marley’s 75th birthday, and Dublin will commemorate the life of writer James Joyce during Bloomsday. Of course, there are lesser-known events, too. Glouster, UK,
Photo of Viva Vino wine glasses

Viva Vino New Mexico – America’s First Wine Region

by Pam Baker

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California may be the most famous wine-growing region in the US, but New Mexico claims the title as the first in the New World. When Spanish explorers settled in the upper Rio Grande Valley, soon after, Franciscan monks followed with smuggled grapevine cuttings out of Spain. By 1629, they planted grapes, and the country’s first
Vineyards of Fenestra Winery, Livermore AVA

California’s Tri-Valley—the Perfect Wine Country Escape

by Hilarie Larson CSW FWS

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What makes for a perfect wine country destination? Breathtaking vineyard landscapes paired with delectable wines are a given. Certain regions  like the Tri-Valley, California, are blessed with an ideal blend of qualities that set them apart from the ordinary. Location, location, location Who wants to spend a chunk of their valuable vacation time getting to where

Waiheke – New Zealand’s Wine Island

by Pam Baker

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Just a short ferry ride from Auckland, New Zealand, through the Hauraki Gulf’s sparkling waters, the beautiful Waiheke Island is well worth a visit. This 36-square mile island, surrounded by 83 miles of coastline, boasts 25 miles of stunning beaches. Yet it is also a distinct wine region. As unlikely a wine-growing region as this

Rest Your Art Basel Weary Feet at These Miami Hotels

by Lisa Morales

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Did you know that Art Miami is Miami’s longest-running contemporary art fair?  Hopefully you’ve made plans for Miami Art Week (December 2-8, 2019) because it is THE time to enjoy art at some of the 18 art fairs in Miami and Miami Beach. If you haven’t planned but still want to go, find a friend
Caribbean views from a luxury cabana

Luxury Travel While The Kids Play

by Bel Woodhouse

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Luxury travel is more popular than ever. There has been a shifting change in travel as multigenerational travel becomes more popular. Parents are looking to relax during family vacations, oftentimes with their parents. They want luxury and relaxation while the kids have fun and adventure, making for a great family vacation. Everyone’s happy. This is
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