Why Didn't We Think of That?

While I am not delusional enough to believe that the U.S. of A. is the birthplace of all brilliant ideas, I do tend to think that as a world superpower and cultural trendsetter, we should at least have imported all of the good inventions fairly quickly.  That’s why I’m always pleasantly surprised when I come across… Read more

My Favorite Shots: Istanbul

While I have been working primarily on my travel writing, developing a photographer’s eye is also an important goal for me and for my blog.  I am always looking for images that represent the place that I’m visiting while also focusing on subjects that have some significance for me. Some cities, like Paris, Rio de Janeiro… Read more

Advice on Visiting Cappadocia

Posted in Cappadocia| Turkey

The Cappadocia region has become a popular “second stop” for travelers and tourists visiting Turkey.  After a few days in that vibrant, bustling city of Istanbul, a get away to the cities of Goreme, Urgup and Uchisar in the Cappadocia region are often on people’s itinerary.  This area is known mainly for its outdoor activities as… Read more

Taking it Slowly

It’s my final day in Turkey. Well, for this trip.  I have no doubt I’ll be back.  The original plan for my last day in Istanbul was to make it over to visit Topkapi Palace, a place I’ve had on my “Must Visit” list since my first day here.  But instead I watched the day while… Read more

A Tale of Two Tours

Posted in Food| Istanbul| Tour

Like many people my age (don’t ask – just assume young enough) and with my travel experience (45 countries and counting) the thought of being on a group tour is somewhat akin to public torture.  Jumping on and off gigantic air conditioned buses with 50 people who share nothing with you other than a common language… Read more

Finding Community on the Road

Istanbul is one of those cities that just feels alive. A constant shuffling stream of locals, tourists, animals, products, produce, boats, cars, and trams.  I know New York is thought of as the city that never sleeps, but after staying in a hostel in the restaurant and club packed Taksim Square neighborhood, I sincerely believe Istanbul… Read more

Comparing Cafe Culture

A quick pick-me-up in VancouverIs it weird that I will travel thousands of miles, spend the better part of a day on a plane and likely drop a decent wad of cash only to end up in a foreign country to do…nothing? Well, not exactly “nothing” but pretty darned close to it.  No matter where I… Read more