They’re dark. They’re a bit creepy. They’re lava tubes. Lurking beneath the lush tropical foliage that decorates the island of Hawaii, what appear to be mine shafts drilled through solid lava are actually nature-made. During …
November 23, 2009
North America
Hawaii Down Under
A Side Trip from Sedona, AZ
Visitors to the spiritual center of Sedona, Arizona, may not know of the many wonders nearby. Sedona is known for amazing red rock formations and its “vortexes,” centers of spiritual energy. But in addition to …
November 16, 2009
Haleakala Crater in Haleakala National Park, Maui
I’m not much of a morning person, so if I’m going to get up at 3:00 am and trek up a 10,023-foot dormant volcano to watch a sunrise, it better be worth it. Watching the …
November 16, 2009
When nobody's going to Tijuana, I can't help thinking about Mexico
Why Tijuana? That’s what everybody asks me these days. I know. These days, the headlines about Tijuana feature murder, mayhem, and misery. But here’s the thing. These days, when nobody’s going to Tijuana, wouldn’t you …
November 11, 2009
Havana: Worlds Apart
“What are they all waiting for over there?” A group of women are waiting on a neighborhood street corner. The truck is arriving sometime in the day, exact time unknown, to deliver their monthly ration …
November 9, 2009
Strawberry Fields, Central Park, New York
He was one of four British teens who forever changed the face of rock & roll. An advocate for peace, politically outspoken and senselessly murdered — but his words continue to inspire. For these reasons, …
November 9, 2009
Tour the California Redwoods
Touted as California’s toughest “century” (a 100-mile bicycle ride), the Tour of the Unknown Coast lives up to its appellation. Held annually in early May, the TUC attracts both sightseeing tourists and serious cyclists who …
November 7, 2009
Mexican Artisans and the Day of the Dead, Pátzcuaro, Mexico
Are you a cultural festival junkie? Treasures abound in Mexico and in your nearby Mexican neighborhood. I still have my sugar skeletons from the Day of the Dead (El Día De Los Muertos) in Pátzcuaro, …
November 1, 2009
Salt Lake City's Temple Square
What I found most fascinating about Salt Lake City’s Temple Square was the tour of the Tabernacle and the performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The choir’s Sunday morning broadcasts and Thursday evening rehearsals are …
Snow Skiing on the Big Island of Hawaii
To relieve the tedium of relaxing on the white or black sand beaches of the Big Island, let me suggest a ski trip. Most people hang their jaws in disbelief when informed there’s not only …
October 28, 2009
Mayan Ruins in Tulum, Mexico
Walking among the Mayan ruins in Tulum, Mexico, gave me a deep feeling of connection with the ancient people who built this city. Architectural history and the stunning beauty of the Caribbean join hands at …
October 28, 2009
Re-tune in Sedona, Arizona
Yearn to climb atop some huge red rocks? Need a bit of psychic guidance or attunement of your aura? Looking to spark your creative instincts? Artists, nature lovers and those with a metaphysical bent flock …
Havana, Cuba (If You Can Get There)
“Where all cars are taxis, and all women are whores.” This raucous response to the frequently posed pre-trip question, “So what does Cuba mean to you?” understandably stood out the most. The “cigars” reply was …
October 28, 2009
Autumn in Manhattan
Getting to New York City from the West Coast remains a reasonable flight, even with changes in air travel. Once there, Manhattan offers beautiful fall days in the city. On a recent trip in mid-October, …
October 26, 2009