Although having more time is always preferable for exploring new places, I’ve had some extraordinary chances to deviate from my planned route and immerse myself in a few captivating destinations, even if just for a day. One such destination that captured my heart was Edinburgh, Scotland. I recently found myself with an unexpected extra day before my work commitments commenced in London so I seized the chance to embark on a quick yet delightful trip North to this captivating c
Hot air balloons over Bath's Royal Crescent, Bath, England Those who know southern England will not be surprised with my instant infatuation with Bath. Bath, England, is a city steeped in rich history and cultural significance, having been made popular by the Romans during their occupation of Britain. The Romans recognized the unique geothermal springs in the area, which led to the establishment of a sophisticated bathing complex that became a social and cultural hub. This an
Apple Market, Covent Garden, London Throughout my years of solo travel, I've discovered it to be an incredibly freeing and empowering experience. When you're not tied down by trying to sync up plans or preferences with anyone else, a solo adventure is the perfect chance to do something I absolutely love...just wandering around. I recently found myself in London with an entire day and night to do just that. While London is not a new destination for me, I'm always surprised b
The Cotswolds of England Covering an expansive area of 800 square miles, stretching from the picturesque town of Chipping Campden in the north to the historic city of Bath in the south, the Cotswolds is a region that boasts an abundance of charming villages dating back to Medieval times. The variety and appeal of each village make it difficult to choose just one when time is limited. Each village provides a snapshot of the rich heritage and stunning landscapes that define thi
This wasn't my first experience traveling along Germany's Romantic Road. Over the years, I've managed to add a day or two to the start or end of work trips in Munich to explore the countryside. This picturesque route, which extends from Füssen along the foothills of the Alps in the south to Würzburg in the northern part of Bavaria, is one in that I've long wished to explore at a slower pace. A recent journey to England to celebrate a dear friends birthday, provided an opportu
Paulaner Tent, Oktoberfest 2025, Munich Germany As Oktoberfest celebrations continue throughout the US, Munich's 190th Oktoberfest has concluded, even though it's just the first week of October. Why does Munich's Oktoberfest begin in September? I discovered the answer to this question during my first visit to Oktoberfest in Munich last week. We'll return to that shortly. I suppose if I had any expectations for Oktoberfest, they would involve large crowds and the possibility
"Signs, signs, everywhere is signs "bleeping" up the scenery, breaking my mind, do this, don't do that, can't you read the signs," Five Man Electrical Band, 1971 and Tesla, 1990. On my way to Zion National Park and a stay at one of my favorite off the grid cabins , I encounter a perplexing series of road signs. The sequence begins with a sign that states "Dip in Road One Mile," which is followed by another sign indicating "Dip in Road 1/2 Mile." As if that weren't enough, sh