Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

11 Reasons Guaranteed To Make You Fall In Love With Corning

11 Reasons Guaranteed To Make You Fall In Love With Corning

Corning's iconic Gaffer tops the Little Joe Tower © Jo Clark Corning, a city in New York’s Steuben County on the Chemung River, is inching toward the mark of eleven thousand residents. Named for financier Erastus Corning, the town is in the Finger Lakes region, and it appears everyone has realized the area has exceptional wine and food. But they have so many other amazing things to see and do. Let me give you a taste of things to enjoy in Corning and surrounding Steuben County. With the help...

5 Unconventional Wine Pairings – With Macarons – No Better Obsession

5 Unconventional Wine Pairings – With Macarons – No Better Obsession

Wine pairings and French Macarons ready for taste testing. © Jo Clark Wine pairings with macarons - not something most people recommend: wine pairings with luscious, addictive French cookies. Oh, yes! But you already know I am not “most people.” On my recent trip to explore New York’s beautiful Finger Lakes, I was treated to a first—wine pairings of Domaine LeSeurre’s Signature Wines and French Macarons. Did somebody say cookies—and wine?—Sign me up! Keuka Lake WineriesDomaine LeSeurreFrench...

60 Miles of Sensational Beaches Make an Unparalleled Grand Strand

60 Miles of Sensational Beaches Make an Unparalleled Grand Strand

Sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean at the Grand Strand's Litchfield Beach © Jo Clark The Grand Strand is, well, grand! Sixty miles of sensational wide, sandy beaches. And enough shells, starfish, sand dollars, and shark teeth to delight serious beachcombers. Let’s look at the numbers: in those 60 miles, you find 14 communities, 11 beaches, 157,000 rooms, and 2,000 restaurants. Then there are the tourists. I always say 21 million people can’t be wrong! What Makes the Grand Strand...

The Stunning 469-Mile Blue Ridge Parkway is America’s Favorite Drive

The Stunning 469-Mile Blue Ridge Parkway is America’s Favorite Drive

The Blue Ridge Parkway crosses over Virginia's Route 8 atTuggle's Gap © Jo Clark When people hear the word travel, many think of driving somewhere, like a road trip on the Blue Ridge Parkway. But when people hear “National Park,” they don’t think of a highway. I’m about to change all that. Let me tell you about one of my favorite National Parks, managed by the National Park Service since 1936 and dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive.” It is also America’s longest linear park. The Blue Ridge...

Rocky Mount Snuggles Up to the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains

Rocky Mount Snuggles Up to the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains

Writer, Jo Clark, on right and travel buddy Audrey Wagner, share their "love" for Rocky Mount When you roll into Rocky Mount, the largest Franklin County, Virginia town, be sure to come hungry and be ready for mountain music. And come prepared to do some serious whiskey tasting. You have just arrived in the Moonshine Capital of the World! The English, Germans, and Scots-Irish immigrants who came to this backcountry in the 1700s (my people!) brought traditions that included fruit brandy-making...

2 Daring Buffalo Gals Out In the Blue Ridge Mountains

2 Daring Buffalo Gals Out In the Blue Ridge Mountains

Buffalo Gals Connie and Carla run a herd of American Bison and the Buffalo and More restaurant. The popular eating place is on Route 8 in Riner, Virginia. Have you heard of it? You will know this shortcut through the mountains if you drive to Radford University or Virginia Tech in Blacksburg from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Martinsville, Floyd, Stuart, Ferrum, or Mt. Airy, North Carolina. Buffalo GalsRaising the BullWhat Does It Take?American HistoryTwo FedEx Drivers Trade in Their Trucks for the...

4 Blue Ridge Mountain Towns: Riner, Radford, Roanoke, Rocky Mount

4 Blue Ridge Mountain Towns: Riner, Radford, Roanoke, Rocky Mount

Every good boy and girl learn the three Rs—but settle in—I want to teach you about the four Rs every good traveler to the Blue Ridge Mountain’s needs to know: Riner, Radford, Roanoke, and Rocky Mount. I'll guide you from a tiny speck on the map along a crooked road to a University town to the Star City of the South, ending up in the Moonshine Capital of the World. Buckle up, and let's hit the road! All four are in the Blue Ridge area, either on the mountains’ top, side, or foot. They are all...

4 Rocky Knob AVA Wineries Cling to the Blue Ridge

4 Rocky Knob AVA Wineries Cling to the Blue Ridge

Rocky Knob AVA wineries (American Viticultural Area)are clustered along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountain Range, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. If this is your first time visiting the East Coast, for good times and great wine, I have three words for you:  Blue Ridge Parkway. Road Trip!Rocky Knob AVA – Small But MightyChateau MorrisetteThe Dog Behind the WinemakerVilla AppalacciaCome to Taste, Stay to EatStanburn WineryHamlet WineryBlue Ridge MountainsPlan Your Next Trip! Road Trip!...

6 Spectacular International Restaurants – Around the World in Myrtle Beach

6 Spectacular International Restaurants – Around the World in Myrtle Beach

You can go around the world with food in Myrtle Beach's international restaurants. In an area known for fresh seafood dishes, chefs also serve international foods from one end of the Grand Strand to the other. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has over 2,000 restaurants – many specializing in traditional seafood dishes – the original sea-to-plate! Myrtle Beach has more restaurants per capita than Paris. Let me “math” it for you. If you went to a different restaurant every day, it would take you...

Ride into History in Gettysburg Fascinating Tours of 1863

Ride into History in Gettysburg Fascinating Tours of 1863

You can ride into history in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in a car, in a horse-drawn carriage, on a bike, or on the back of a horse. You can ride right into an American History book from the town of Gettysburg with battlefield guides. The Battle of Gettysburg Sacred Ground History in GettysburgWomen of ValorRoots of Family Tree Led to My History in GettysburgDIY History in Gettysburg ToursBest Places to StayThe Inn at White Oak B&BThe Battlefield Bed & BreakfastBYOB&H – Bring...

My First Visit to Amazing São Jorge Island, Azores

My First Visit to Amazing São Jorge Island, Azores

A view of the Village of Calheta on Sao Jorge Island with a tall church steeple in the center of town © Jo Clark My First Visit to São Jorge Azores Island The spectacular scenery of the oblong island that is São Jorge begins from the air. A long mountain range developed by a volcanic ridge forms the backbone of São Jorge. The island’s nickname is the sleeping dragon—how cool is that? Meanwhile, coastal cliffs plunge into the dazzling blue Atlantic; its “fajãs” (fa-has) are feet from lava flows...

26 Incredible Things to Do During New York City Winters

26 Incredible Things to Do During New York City Winters

Even during the coldest months, there are incredible things to do during New York City winters—without freezing in the Big Apple! I have spent time in the city during early January for the last three years. See? It wasn’t so bad that I didn’t go back again! Of course, that first year, I called the airline and changed my return flight by three days to walk on the beach while 18 inches of snow blanketed NYC. I didn’t need Jim Cantori to tell me when to leave town! I haven’t made it to NYC for...

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands The Azores Islands consist of nine large islands that float lazily in the Atlantic Ocean, midway between Portugal and the United States. Are you thinking, “pit stop”? Hold that thought—it’s a good place to make a quick stop while traveling on long international flights! Azores Airlines (formerly known as SATA) has direct flights to the Azores from North American terminals in New York, Boston, Toronto, and Montreal. They also fly to Lisbon,...

Wine and Chocolate Make the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift

Wine and Chocolate Make the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, not to mention my birthday, so wine and chocolate are on my mind! Same day! *smile* Why not impress the object of your affection (or me!) with your chocolatier skills, or at least your pairing skills extraordinaire! And, honestly, a significant other is not required to enjoy chocolates and wine. It can be shared with roommates, friends, fur babies (but don’t share with them!), or solo in a bubble bath. The point is to make February 14th...

Touring Half Moon Bay – What a Wonderful Day

Touring Half Moon Bay – What a Wonderful Day

Author taking photo of Golden Gate Bridge as Discovery Princess sails underneath Full disclosure:  I only had half a day to explore Half Moon Bay. But it was a fantastic excursion during my Discovery Princess cruise down the Pacific Northwest coastline. We sailed into town, narrowly missing the bridge’s underside, and docked early. Soon, everyone scattered to explore this city by the Bay! Any day I can combine food, travel, and wine is a great day! When you think of...

Is Amazing Discovery Princess 360 Experience Worth the Money

Is Amazing Discovery Princess 360 Experience Worth the Money

The Discovery Princess 360 Experience is so rare and remarkable that I invited seven other seasoned travel writers to join me and tell you the story of the extraordinary affair! In fact, 360: An Extraordinary Experience is offered exclusively on the Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess. It was first available last year as a complimentary event by invitation to suite guests. Suite holders receive an invitation to experience this fantastic meal. However, this meal is now available to...

20 Ultimate Delicious Halloween Candy Wine Pairings

20 Ultimate Delicious Halloween Candy Wine Pairings

The Ultimate Halloween Candy Wine Pairings: red wine and chocolate kisses © Jo Clark Get Your Fright On! You have to try Halloween candy wine pairings. Wait. WHAT??!! Halloween candy and WINE?? Yep, that’s what I said! It will rock your world! Halloween was fantastic as a kid, but now I enjoy the adult version of Hocus Pocus Fright Night even more! Halloween night arrives at that time of year when the air is filled with the odor of dry leaves. My favorite Halloween...

My Amazing Adventures on the Yadkin Valley Wine and Shine Trail

My Amazing Adventures on the Yadkin Valley Wine and Shine Trail

I set out to explore the Yadkin Valley Wine AVA (American Viticultural Area.) The Yadkin Valley AVA consists of seven counties in western North Carolina, with the Yadkin River as its Southern border. Nearby towns are Elkin, Dobson, Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain, and State Road (yes, that is the town's name!) Believe me, visiting the Yadkin Valley is a real treat! Plus, it is a short drive from Charlotte or Winston-Salem. In less than four hours, you can easily drive to Elkin from points along the...

Unordinary Lodging Found at Exceptional Hotel Zed Tofino in BC

Unordinary Lodging Found at Exceptional Hotel Zed Tofino in BC

Hotel Zed is Alive with Mid-Century Modern Colors © Hotel Zed Hotel Zed Tofino is proud to say they “Rebel against the Ordinary” and offer an unconventional and fresh perspective on hotel amenities. It is unlike any other hotel and raises the bar for family hotels. Located on the stunning west coast of Vancouver Island in the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region, Tofino is one of the best places to take your family on holidays. Whether you drive from Victoria, the beautiful capital of...

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

Namibia – Unique Recipe for Friendships with New People

Namibia – Unique Recipe for Friendships with New People

Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world. I’m always looking for hidden gems, but I don’t believe you can get more “hidden” than that! Located in southern Africa, just above South Africa on the Atlantic Coast, Namibia was a delightful spot for my first visit to Africa. You know you’ve found your happy place when you land halfway around the world at 8:30 in the morning, and by 3 o’clock that afternoon, you are swapping recipes with the lodge’s chef over tea!...

Historic Georgetown SC Will Surprise You – In All the Best Ways

Historic Georgetown SC Will Surprise You – In All the Best Ways

Historic Georgetown SC will surprise you in the best possible ways! Named America’s Best Coastal Small Town in 2018 by USA Today, Georgetown is the third oldest town in South Carolina. Interestingly, historians believe the first European settlement on mainland North America was established here by Spaniards in 1526 (sorry, St. Augustine!). If only we could prove it! Early settlers located the original outpost on Winyah Bay, but within six months, the settlement disappeared without a...

Savoring Chocolate Tofino – Amazing Flavors on Vancouver Island

Savoring Chocolate Tofino – Amazing Flavors on Vancouver Island

Chocolate Tofino Tasting on a Plate © Linda Sheppard On a trip to Tofino, British Columbia, found on Vancouver Island's beautiful west coast, I savored chocolates at Chocolate Tofino. Chocolatiers Kim and Cam Shaw were recently recognized by Lonely Planet's Global Chocolate Tour. The pair guided me through different flavors of their artisan chocolates. They taught me roughly five percent of what they know about chocolate in their cozy chocolate shop on the Pacific Rim Highway. I know more now...

Tofino Will Make You Fall in Love With Vancouver Island

Tofino Will Make You Fall in Love With Vancouver Island

River on the Drive to Tofino © Linda Sheppard Tofino will make you fall in love with Vancouver Island’s beauty. Whether you drive or fly, you will see magnificent mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and gorgeous log-strewn beaches as you approach the Tofino area. Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is the largest island on the west coast of North and South America. Interestingly, it is about the same size as Belgium and bigger than all the Hawaiian Islands. And, situated on the island’s wild west...

Victoria: 21 Best Things to Do on Vancouver Island

Victoria: 21 Best Things to Do on Vancouver Island

Victoria Inner Harbour and the Parliament Buildings © Linda Sheppard Victoria, the Capital of British Columbia, is on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The city has a vibrant downtown area, Inner Harbour. And it has stunning views, a fantastic food scene, and gorgeous gardens. Victoria was officially named Fort Victoria in 1843 in honor of Queen Victoria; the city proudly reveals its British history in many ways. Getting to Victoria BC is half the fun! Many tourists reach Victoria by...

RAMP IT UP!! Best Ways to Eat Ramps – A Unique West Virginia Delicacy

RAMP IT UP!! Best Ways to Eat Ramps – A Unique West Virginia Delicacy

A mess of ramps, ready to be cleaned and cooked © Blake Borchardt Ramps (Allium tricoccum) are a unique West Virginia delicacy that gets mixed reviews; people are either fans of wild ramps or not; I say, ramp it up!  Now, maybe you’ve never heard of ramps—except for slanted handicap ramps leading into a building. But I’m talking about a species of wild onion, a forest plant with purplish stems that miraculously appear in late March to early April at higher elevations. These cousins...

Best Ways to Have the Most Fun in LaGrange Georgia

Best Ways to Have the Most Fun in LaGrange Georgia

Lafayette Square in LaGrange Georgia The best way to have the most fun in LaGrange Georgia is to stay downtown and be able to walk everywhere. LaGrange, Georgia, is a fantastic place to visit. It’s a small town in western Georgia with plenty of history and charm. Halfway between Atlanta and Chattanooga, LaGrange is sometimes called the “City of Elms and Roses,” the historic homes and neighborhoods are filled with both--so, take time to smell those roses! There is a Downtown Walking Tour with...

The Best Things in Cannon Beach

The Best Things in Cannon Beach

The best things in Cannon Beach include surfing and whale watching. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Cannon Beach is easily recognized by the iconic Haystack Rock, one of the tallest intertidal monoliths in the world. Haystack Rock is flanked by sea stacks, which is terrific fun for families as the tide pools that surround the rock are rich with sea life, such as sea anemones and crabs. Ecola State Park, home to a gang of elk, offers dramatic coastal hiking with viewpoints delivering...

Review of an Amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions

Review of an Amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions

Enjoy reading my review of an amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions. The 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess was the newest ship in Alaska, and we were on her! Departing for an inside passage along the Alaskan coast, the Royal-class Discovery Princess eased out of Seattle as we toasted the trip with champagne on our balcony. Soon a breathtaking view of picture-perfect Mount Rainier slid into view. The view was all the more impressive when I learned it is “only visible a few...

Floyd – Unique Funky Town in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Floyd – Unique Funky Town in the Blue Ridge Mountains

In the 1970s, hippies and artists moved to the unique funky town of Floyd, Virginia, to “live off the grid.” They made a great choice! This cute town is filled with historic buildings and sits on a magnificent Blue Ridge plateau in the mountains. Floyd holds a Yoga Jam, has a Friday Night Jamboree in the local country store, and, if you know where to look, hides a prohibition-style Speakeasy! Plus, you can stock up on moonshine—without making a Thunder Road run from the revenuers!! Then,...

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

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11 Reasons Guaranteed To Make You Fall In Love With Corning

11 Reasons Guaranteed To Make You Fall In Love With Corning

Corning's iconic Gaffer tops the Little Joe Tower © Jo Clark Corning, a city in New York’s Steuben County on the Chemung River, is inching toward the mark of eleven thousand residents. Named for financier Erastus Corning, the town is in the Finger Lakes region, and it...

4 Rocky Knob AVA Wineries Cling to the Blue Ridge

Rocky Knob AVA wineries (American Viticultural Area)are clustered along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountain Range, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. If this is your first time visiting the East Coast, for good times and great wine, I have three words for you:  Blue...

20 Ultimate Delicious Halloween Candy Wine Pairings

The Ultimate Halloween Candy Wine Pairings: red wine and chocolate kisses © Jo Clark Get Your Fright On! You have to try Halloween candy wine pairings. Wait. WHAT??!! Halloween candy and WINE?? Yep, that’s what I said! It will rock your world!...

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

11 Reasons Guaranteed To Make You Fall In Love With Corning

Corning's iconic Gaffer tops the Little Joe Tower © Jo Clark Corning, a city in New York’s Steuben County on the Chemung River, is inching toward the mark of eleven thousand residents. Named for financier Erastus Corning, the town is in the Finger Lakes region, and it...

2 Daring Buffalo Gals Out In the Blue Ridge Mountains

Buffalo Gals Connie and Carla run a herd of American Bison and the Buffalo and More restaurant. The popular eating place is on Route 8 in Riner, Virginia. Have you heard of it? You will know this shortcut through the mountains if you drive to Radford University or...

4 Rocky Knob AVA Wineries Cling to the Blue Ridge

Rocky Knob AVA wineries (American Viticultural Area)are clustered along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountain Range, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. If this is your first time visiting the East Coast, for good times and great wine, I have three words for you:  Blue...

Ride into History in Gettysburg Fascinating Tours of 1863

You can ride into history in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in a car, in a horse-drawn carriage, on a bike, or on the back of a horse. You can ride right into an American History book from the town of Gettysburg with battlefield guides. The Battle of Gettysburg Sacred...

My First Visit to Amazing São Jorge Island, Azores

A view of the Village of Calheta on Sao Jorge Island with a tall church steeple in the center of town © Jo Clark My First Visit to São Jorge Azores Island The spectacular scenery of the oblong island that is São Jorge begins from the air. A long mountain range...

26 Incredible Things to Do During New York City Winters

Even during the coldest months, there are incredible things to do during New York City winters—without freezing in the Big Apple! I have spent time in the city during early January for the last three years. See? It wasn’t so bad that I didn’t go back again! Of course,...

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands The Azores Islands consist of nine large islands that float lazily in the Atlantic Ocean, midway between Portugal and the United States. Are you thinking, “pit stop”? Hold that thought—it’s a good place to make a quick...

Touring Half Moon Bay – What a Wonderful Day

Author taking photo of Golden Gate Bridge as Discovery Princess sails underneath Full disclosure:  I only had half a day to explore Half Moon Bay. But it was a fantastic excursion during my Discovery Princess cruise down the Pacific Northwest...

20 Ultimate Delicious Halloween Candy Wine Pairings

The Ultimate Halloween Candy Wine Pairings: red wine and chocolate kisses © Jo Clark Get Your Fright On! You have to try Halloween candy wine pairings. Wait. WHAT??!! Halloween candy and WINE?? Yep, that’s what I said! It will rock your world!...

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

Namibia – Unique Recipe for Friendships with New People

Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world. I’m always looking for hidden gems, but I don’t believe you can get more “hidden” than that! Located in southern Africa, just above South Africa on the Atlantic Coast, Namibia was a delightful spot...

Victoria: 21 Best Things to Do on Vancouver Island

Victoria Inner Harbour and the Parliament Buildings © Linda Sheppard Victoria, the Capital of British Columbia, is on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The city has a vibrant downtown area, Inner Harbour. And it has stunning views, a fantastic food scene, and...

Best Ways to Have the Most Fun in LaGrange Georgia

Lafayette Square in LaGrange Georgia The best way to have the most fun in LaGrange Georgia is to stay downtown and be able to walk everywhere. LaGrange, Georgia, is a fantastic place to visit. It’s a small town in western Georgia with plenty of history and charm....

The Best Things in Cannon Beach

The best things in Cannon Beach include surfing and whale watching. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Cannon Beach is easily recognized by the iconic Haystack Rock, one of the tallest intertidal monoliths in the world. Haystack Rock is flanked by sea stacks, which is...

Review of an Amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions

Enjoy reading my review of an amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions. The 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess was the newest ship in Alaska, and we were on her! Departing for an inside passage along the Alaskan coast, the Royal-class Discovery Princess eased...

Floyd – Unique Funky Town in the Blue Ridge Mountains

In the 1970s, hippies and artists moved to the unique funky town of Floyd, Virginia, to “live off the grid.” They made a great choice! This cute town is filled with historic buildings and sits on a magnificent Blue Ridge plateau in the mountains. Floyd holds a...

CULTURE

11 Reasons Guaranteed To Make You Fall In Love With Corning

Corning's iconic Gaffer tops the Little Joe Tower © Jo Clark Corning, a city in New York’s Steuben County on the Chemung River, is inching toward the mark of eleven thousand residents. Named for financier Erastus Corning, the town is in the Finger Lakes region, and it...

60 Miles of Sensational Beaches Make an Unparalleled Grand Strand

Sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean at the Grand Strand's Litchfield Beach © Jo Clark The Grand Strand is, well, grand! Sixty miles of sensational wide, sandy beaches. And enough shells, starfish, sand dollars, and shark teeth to delight serious beachcombers. Let’s look...

Rocky Mount Snuggles Up to the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains

Writer, Jo Clark, on right and travel buddy Audrey Wagner, share their "love" for Rocky Mount When you roll into Rocky Mount, the largest Franklin County, Virginia town, be sure to come hungry and be ready for mountain music. And come prepared to do some serious...

2 Daring Buffalo Gals Out In the Blue Ridge Mountains

Buffalo Gals Connie and Carla run a herd of American Bison and the Buffalo and More restaurant. The popular eating place is on Route 8 in Riner, Virginia. Have you heard of it? You will know this shortcut through the mountains if you drive to Radford University or...

4 Blue Ridge Mountain Towns: Riner, Radford, Roanoke, Rocky Mount

Every good boy and girl learn the three Rs—but settle in—I want to teach you about the four Rs every good traveler to the Blue Ridge Mountain’s needs to know: Riner, Radford, Roanoke, and Rocky Mount. I'll guide you from a tiny speck on the map along a crooked road to...

4 Rocky Knob AVA Wineries Cling to the Blue Ridge

Rocky Knob AVA wineries (American Viticultural Area)are clustered along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountain Range, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. If this is your first time visiting the East Coast, for good times and great wine, I have three words for you:  Blue...

Ride into History in Gettysburg Fascinating Tours of 1863

You can ride into history in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in a car, in a horse-drawn carriage, on a bike, or on the back of a horse. You can ride right into an American History book from the town of Gettysburg with battlefield guides. The Battle of Gettysburg Sacred...

My First Visit to Amazing São Jorge Island, Azores

A view of the Village of Calheta on Sao Jorge Island with a tall church steeple in the center of town © Jo Clark My First Visit to São Jorge Azores Island The spectacular scenery of the oblong island that is São Jorge begins from the air. A long mountain range...

26 Incredible Things to Do During New York City Winters

Even during the coldest months, there are incredible things to do during New York City winters—without freezing in the Big Apple! I have spent time in the city during early January for the last three years. See? It wasn’t so bad that I didn’t go back again! Of course,...

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands The Azores Islands consist of nine large islands that float lazily in the Atlantic Ocean, midway between Portugal and the United States. Are you thinking, “pit stop”? Hold that thought—it’s a good place to make a quick...

Wine and Chocolate Make the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, not to mention my birthday, so wine and chocolate are on my mind! Same day! *smile* Why not impress the object of your affection (or me!) with your chocolatier skills, or at least your pairing skills...

Touring Half Moon Bay – What a Wonderful Day

Author taking photo of Golden Gate Bridge as Discovery Princess sails underneath Full disclosure:  I only had half a day to explore Half Moon Bay. But it was a fantastic excursion during my Discovery Princess cruise down the Pacific Northwest...

20 Ultimate Delicious Halloween Candy Wine Pairings

The Ultimate Halloween Candy Wine Pairings: red wine and chocolate kisses © Jo Clark Get Your Fright On! You have to try Halloween candy wine pairings. Wait. WHAT??!! Halloween candy and WINE?? Yep, that’s what I said! It will rock your world!...

My Amazing Adventures on the Yadkin Valley Wine and Shine Trail

I set out to explore the Yadkin Valley Wine AVA (American Viticultural Area.) The Yadkin Valley AVA consists of seven counties in western North Carolina, with the Yadkin River as its Southern border. Nearby towns are Elkin, Dobson, Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain, and...

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

Namibia – Unique Recipe for Friendships with New People

Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world. I’m always looking for hidden gems, but I don’t believe you can get more “hidden” than that! Located in southern Africa, just above South Africa on the Atlantic Coast, Namibia was a delightful spot...

Tofino Will Make You Fall in Love With Vancouver Island

River on the Drive to Tofino © Linda Sheppard Tofino will make you fall in love with Vancouver Island’s beauty. Whether you drive or fly, you will see magnificent mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and gorgeous log-strewn beaches as you approach the Tofino area....

Victoria: 21 Best Things to Do on Vancouver Island

Victoria Inner Harbour and the Parliament Buildings © Linda Sheppard Victoria, the Capital of British Columbia, is on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The city has a vibrant downtown area, Inner Harbour. And it has stunning views, a fantastic food scene, and...

Best Ways to Have the Most Fun in LaGrange Georgia

Lafayette Square in LaGrange Georgia The best way to have the most fun in LaGrange Georgia is to stay downtown and be able to walk everywhere. LaGrange, Georgia, is a fantastic place to visit. It’s a small town in western Georgia with plenty of history and charm....

The Best Things in Cannon Beach

The best things in Cannon Beach include surfing and whale watching. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Cannon Beach is easily recognized by the iconic Haystack Rock, one of the tallest intertidal monoliths in the world. Haystack Rock is flanked by sea stacks, which is...

Review of an Amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions

Enjoy reading my review of an amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions. The 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess was the newest ship in Alaska, and we were on her! Departing for an inside passage along the Alaskan coast, the Royal-class Discovery Princess eased...

Floyd – Unique Funky Town in the Blue Ridge Mountains

In the 1970s, hippies and artists moved to the unique funky town of Floyd, Virginia, to “live off the grid.” They made a great choice! This cute town is filled with historic buildings and sits on a magnificent Blue Ridge plateau in the mountains. Floyd holds a...

60 Miles of Sensational Beaches Make an Unparalleled Grand Strand

60 Miles of Sensational Beaches Make an Unparalleled Grand Strand

Sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean at the Grand Strand's Litchfield Beach © Jo Clark The Grand Strand is, well, grand! Sixty miles of sensational wide, sandy beaches. And enough shells, starfish, sand dollars, and shark teeth to delight serious beachcombers. Let’s look...

Ride into History in Gettysburg Fascinating Tours of 1863

Ride into History in Gettysburg Fascinating Tours of 1863

You can ride into history in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in a car, in a horse-drawn carriage, on a bike, or on the back of a horse. You can ride right into an American History book from the town of Gettysburg with battlefield guides. The Battle of Gettysburg Sacred...

My First Visit to Amazing São Jorge Island, Azores

My First Visit to Amazing São Jorge Island, Azores

A view of the Village of Calheta on Sao Jorge Island with a tall church steeple in the center of town © Jo Clark My First Visit to São Jorge Azores Island The spectacular scenery of the oblong island that is São Jorge begins from the air. A long mountain range...

11 Reasons Guaranteed To Make You Fall In Love With Corning

Corning's iconic Gaffer tops the Little Joe Tower © Jo Clark Corning, a city in New York’s Steuben County on the Chemung River, is inching toward the mark of eleven thousand residents. Named for financier Erastus Corning, the town is in the Finger Lakes region, and it...

60 Miles of Sensational Beaches Make an Unparalleled Grand Strand

Sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean at the Grand Strand's Litchfield Beach © Jo Clark The Grand Strand is, well, grand! Sixty miles of sensational wide, sandy beaches. And enough shells, starfish, sand dollars, and shark teeth to delight serious beachcombers. Let’s look...

Rocky Mount Snuggles Up to the Beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains

Writer, Jo Clark, on right and travel buddy Audrey Wagner, share their "love" for Rocky Mount When you roll into Rocky Mount, the largest Franklin County, Virginia town, be sure to come hungry and be ready for mountain music. And come prepared to do some serious...

2 Daring Buffalo Gals Out In the Blue Ridge Mountains

Buffalo Gals Connie and Carla run a herd of American Bison and the Buffalo and More restaurant. The popular eating place is on Route 8 in Riner, Virginia. Have you heard of it? You will know this shortcut through the mountains if you drive to Radford University or...

4 Blue Ridge Mountain Towns: Riner, Radford, Roanoke, Rocky Mount

Every good boy and girl learn the three Rs—but settle in—I want to teach you about the four Rs every good traveler to the Blue Ridge Mountain’s needs to know: Riner, Radford, Roanoke, and Rocky Mount. I'll guide you from a tiny speck on the map along a crooked road to...

4 Rocky Knob AVA Wineries Cling to the Blue Ridge

Rocky Knob AVA wineries (American Viticultural Area)are clustered along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountain Range, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. If this is your first time visiting the East Coast, for good times and great wine, I have three words for you:  Blue...

Ride into History in Gettysburg Fascinating Tours of 1863

You can ride into history in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in a car, in a horse-drawn carriage, on a bike, or on the back of a horse. You can ride right into an American History book from the town of Gettysburg with battlefield guides. The Battle of Gettysburg Sacred...

My First Visit to Amazing São Jorge Island, Azores

A view of the Village of Calheta on Sao Jorge Island with a tall church steeple in the center of town © Jo Clark My First Visit to São Jorge Azores Island The spectacular scenery of the oblong island that is São Jorge begins from the air. A long mountain range...

26 Incredible Things to Do During New York City Winters

Even during the coldest months, there are incredible things to do during New York City winters—without freezing in the Big Apple! I have spent time in the city during early January for the last three years. See? It wasn’t so bad that I didn’t go back again! Of course,...

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands

15 Reasons to Explore the Amazing Azores Islands The Azores Islands consist of nine large islands that float lazily in the Atlantic Ocean, midway between Portugal and the United States. Are you thinking, “pit stop”? Hold that thought—it’s a good place to make a quick...

Wine and Chocolate Make the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, not to mention my birthday, so wine and chocolate are on my mind! Same day! *smile* Why not impress the object of your affection (or me!) with your chocolatier skills, or at least your pairing skills...

Touring Half Moon Bay – What a Wonderful Day

Author taking photo of Golden Gate Bridge as Discovery Princess sails underneath Full disclosure:  I only had half a day to explore Half Moon Bay. But it was a fantastic excursion during my Discovery Princess cruise down the Pacific Northwest...

20 Ultimate Delicious Halloween Candy Wine Pairings

The Ultimate Halloween Candy Wine Pairings: red wine and chocolate kisses © Jo Clark Get Your Fright On! You have to try Halloween candy wine pairings. Wait. WHAT??!! Halloween candy and WINE?? Yep, that’s what I said! It will rock your world!...

My Amazing Adventures on the Yadkin Valley Wine and Shine Trail

I set out to explore the Yadkin Valley Wine AVA (American Viticultural Area.) The Yadkin Valley AVA consists of seven counties in western North Carolina, with the Yadkin River as its Southern border. Nearby towns are Elkin, Dobson, Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain, and...

Roanoke VA – Visit the Glowing Star City of the South

Roanoke is the largest city and largest municipality in Southwest Virginia, and it is often called the Star City of the South—it has a nice ring to it, right? While Mill Mountain, crowned with a star, surrounds the city like a big blue hug, wrapping its arms around the Roanoke Valley. And that enormous star is right up there to remove any doubt about where you are!

Namibia – Unique Recipe for Friendships with New People

Namibia is the second least densely populated country in the world. I’m always looking for hidden gems, but I don’t believe you can get more “hidden” than that! Located in southern Africa, just above South Africa on the Atlantic Coast, Namibia was a delightful spot...

Tofino Will Make You Fall in Love With Vancouver Island

River on the Drive to Tofino © Linda Sheppard Tofino will make you fall in love with Vancouver Island’s beauty. Whether you drive or fly, you will see magnificent mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and gorgeous log-strewn beaches as you approach the Tofino area....

Victoria: 21 Best Things to Do on Vancouver Island

Victoria Inner Harbour and the Parliament Buildings © Linda Sheppard Victoria, the Capital of British Columbia, is on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The city has a vibrant downtown area, Inner Harbour. And it has stunning views, a fantastic food scene, and...

Best Ways to Have the Most Fun in LaGrange Georgia

Lafayette Square in LaGrange Georgia The best way to have the most fun in LaGrange Georgia is to stay downtown and be able to walk everywhere. LaGrange, Georgia, is a fantastic place to visit. It’s a small town in western Georgia with plenty of history and charm....

The Best Things in Cannon Beach

The best things in Cannon Beach include surfing and whale watching. Located in the Pacific Northwest, Cannon Beach is easily recognized by the iconic Haystack Rock, one of the tallest intertidal monoliths in the world. Haystack Rock is flanked by sea stacks, which is...

Review of an Amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions

Enjoy reading my review of an amazing Princess Alaskan Cruise and Excursions. The 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess was the newest ship in Alaska, and we were on her! Departing for an inside passage along the Alaskan coast, the Royal-class Discovery Princess eased...

Floyd – Unique Funky Town in the Blue Ridge Mountains

In the 1970s, hippies and artists moved to the unique funky town of Floyd, Virginia, to “live off the grid.” They made a great choice! This cute town is filled with historic buildings and sits on a magnificent Blue Ridge plateau in the mountains. Floyd holds a...