by Connie Motz Located in South East Asia, the mystical island of Bali is only one of 18,110 islands making the world’s largest archipelago – Indonesia. I have had the wonderful privilege of visiting this exotic island twice – this second trip was … [Read More...] about The Giant Ogoh-Ogohs of Bali
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A Victorian Christmas – Past And Present
By Margaret Deefholts I am standing at the entrance to a splendid castle, its fireplace decorated with boughs of mistletoe and ivy, its hallway aglow with lights, and its grand staircase banisters wreathed in garlands of holly. The rich aroma of … [Read More...] about A Victorian Christmas – Past And Present

Sooke’s Seaweed & Other Tasty Treats
by Lauren Kramer "Go ahead, taste it," says the Seaweed Lady, offering a long strand of bull kelp seaweed. I'm standing on a beach on the southwestern tip of Vancouver Island, inspecting an assortment of slimy-looking seaweed that Diane … [Read More...] about Sooke’s Seaweed & Other Tasty Treats

A Local’s Guide to the Best Coffee Shops in Toronto
Toronto hit me with a chill that morning. I had arrived late, slept little, and needed real caffeine—fast. I wasn’t after a corporate chain or a photo-perfect latte - I wanted something grounded. Something personal. I was looking for the best coffee … [Read More...] about A Local’s Guide to the Best Coffee Shops in Toronto

Historic Steveston’s Cannery Row
by Irene Butler "He's too short, and too ugly to marry," said Asayo. At first it was thought this "picture bride" was in bad sorts from her long journey from Hiroshima Japan in 1923-but she meant it. As was the practice of the time, … [Read More...] about Historic Steveston’s Cannery Row

Sunrise Photography Hotspots Along Florida’s Gulf Coast
There’s something magnetic about early mornings along Florida’s Gulf Coast. The salt in the air, the hush before the day begins, and the golden light all come together for an experience photographers cherish. For those searching for photography … [Read More...] about Sunrise Photography Hotspots Along Florida’s Gulf Coast

Sweetheart Sites of Seattle
By Jane Cassie It’s that time of year again –when chocolate boxes are carved into hearts, roses brim from corner grocers, and cupid comes out of hiding. So, how are you going to celebrate the big day of romance? What love-struck surprise can you … [Read More...] about Sweetheart Sites of Seattle

Florida’s Best Spots for Kayaking Through Mangroves
Mangroves create one of Florida’s most stunning natural waterways. These tangled roots and shaded tunnels offer a unique paddling experience. Kayakers can explore calm waters while spotting rare wildlife. Florida’s best spots for kayaking through … [Read More...] about Florida’s Best Spots for Kayaking Through Mangroves

Disneyland’s Anaheim: California’s Favorite Family Destination!
by Rick Millikan Who could guess that a quiet agricultural community would change so radically? German farmers settled around Anaheim in 1857, planting various crops. When a plague wiped out their wine grapes twenty-three years later, acres of … [Read More...] about Disneyland’s Anaheim: California’s Favorite Family Destination!

Planes, Trains and Automobiles: A stop in the Port Alberni area has all the bases covered
by Margo Malcolm Rushing on your way to Long Beach or lazing on the beaches of Parksville/Qualicum Beach, you might easily miss a visit to the town of Port Alberni. But that would be a mistake. This town is shrugging off the economic highs and … [Read More...] about Planes, Trains and Automobiles: A stop in the Port Alberni area has all the bases covered

Weekend Sojourn in Barcelona
Story by Caroline M. Jackson After commandeering a flip-down seat near the crowded doorway, I hovered over my suitcase like a broody hen as our train left the airport and headed towards Barcelona. A young Spanish student, Francesco, perched … [Read More...] about Weekend Sojourn in Barcelona

Visiting the Past: Montreal’s Historic Heart
by Chris Millikan History buffs love sauntering along old Montreal’s cobbled European-style streets…or wandering her public squares surrounded by grand cathedrals, historic homes and museums. My hubby Rick and I recently join the curious throng … [Read More...] about Visiting the Past: Montreal’s Historic Heart






