My First Solo Trip! Getting divorced after 25 years of marriage definitely brings about a lot of changes. One of the most personally challenging to me is the loss of my built-in travel partner. For the past quarter century, I always had someone with me when I traveled (when the kids were younger there were multiple "someones"). My ex-husband and I both liked to travel and explore new areas so we constantly planned trips and getaways. Over the years we drifted and were no longer marriage compatible, but we never lost the travel compatibility and always had fun traveling together. After we separated, I still wanted to travel but found myself feeling scared to venture forth by myself. I solved this problem initially by planning my epic California road trip with my friend Ann and taking several long weekend getaways with my oldest daughter, Madison. Madison and I also went to Jamaica, somewhere I had always wanted to go. But I quickly realized that Madison probably doesn't always want to go on vacation with her mother (although I don't know why...I am a lot of fun!) and friends aren't always available to travel. I needed to be brave and begin venturing out by myself. So I planned my first solo trip to Seattle, Washington, a place I have wanted to explore for a long time. I was pleasantly surprised at how empowering traveling solo turned out to be. Don't get me wrong, it had its challenges. But now that I have figured out that I actually enjoy the benefits solo travel provides, I look forward to planning many more solo adventures! I still plan to travel and explore with my daughters and my friends, but I will definitely mix in solo trips because it is such a different experience! This blog sets out the Good, the Bad and the Ugly a solo traveler (especially a female solo traveler) must deal with when venturing out on her own. The Good I can do what I want on my own schedule. No other conflicting preferences to consider! No waiting for someone to wake up or finish their morning routine before heading out. In Seattle, I explored things and joined excursions that I might have missed if I had to compromise with travel companions who were interested in different things. I could spend as long as I wanted to at some sights (like the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum which was amazing) while I breezed through others that weren't as interesting to me. I can set my own budget. I can stay in a fancy hotel or book a cheaper alternative depending on how I feel. I can choose to eat at less expensive diners or fast food places or sit down at a fancy restaurant. I can sign up for whatever excursions I want without worrying if someone else wants to spend their money on that activity. I found myself much more outwardly focused. I paid attention to my surroundings taking in sights as I walked around instead of being focused on conversations or distracted by interactions with my family or friends. I also met many more locals as I would sit at the bar for meals and always ended up chatting with the bartenders or fellow customers. I also spent more time talking to people I interacted with in stores or on tours. I learned so much more about the area from these conversations and got a better sense of what it is like to live there as opposed to just being a tourist. I also learned insider tips for visiting the area from these locals that I wouldn't have learned if I wasn't dining by myself! My confidence in myself grew throughout the trip as I navigated logistics and disruptions all on my own, walked into restaurants and ate meals by myself, made friends with strangers and explored a whole new city. I learned about myself. How I like to travel, what I really prefer to do, what interests me, what the edge of my comfort zone is, how bold I can be. When forced to face your fears and insecurities, you find out what you are really capable of and what your strengths are. The Bad Despite the benefits I listed above about eating alone, it can feel really awkward and lonely sometimes. If I don't happen to sit next to a chatty customer or the bartender is busy, it can be uncomfortable just sitting by myself while everyone else is laughing and talking with their dining companions. Looking at my phone is always a good distraction, but I feel like it is a waste of opportunity when I am sitting in an exciting new environment that is waiting to be discovered. Same thing can be said for a book, but that is always an option to reduce solo anxiety. Along the same lines, it can be awkward when you show up to excursions or tourist attractions by yourself. When I went to ride the Great Wheel in Seattle, it felt a little embarrassing to say I was a party of one and be placed in my own ferris wheel compartment alone. One the other hand, it was also a very zen moment to travel around the Great Wheel in silence looking at the Seattle skyline. Silver linings... Pictures. After my Seattle trip I had tons of scenery pictures (which are lovely but get boring) and several selfies from that awkward angle (you know the one). Let's just say I need to improve my selfie game as I continue to travel alone. People are always willing to take your picture, but again I need to work on my solo photo posturing so I am not just awkwardly standing there. Once my daughter Taylor was on a solo excursion to Liverpool and took the Beatles tour. When she asked the tour guide to take her picture at Strawberry Fields he asked the obvious "Just you?" and Taylor awkwardly said "yes". As if that wasn't uncomfortable enough, at the next stop when she asked him to take a picture of her at the next iconic spot he said "Just you?" again! She wanted to say "Yes...I didn't pick up a traveling companion between Strawberry Fields and here!" Anyway, this isn't the worst problem in the world and there are solutions, but it is definitely something that is a struggle when traveling alone. During the day when I had down time, I really noticed my aloneness. If I were traveling with someone, that would be a time that we would normally stop and grab a drink at some cute pub or cafe that strikes our fancy or just chill somewhere relaxing and chat. When you are alone and in between activities it can feel really lonely. Not that I couldn't drop in and have a drink by myself somewhere, but it does get tiring constantly showing up for meals and tours alone so sometimes I just don't feel like being an extroverted solo traveler. Usually during these transition times I try to find cute local stores to browse or I go back to the hotel room to freshen up or chill out before my next activity. The Ugly Safety. There is no getting around it, a female solo traveler must take extra.precaution to be safe. Sometimes it is just not smart to walk around by yourself or go to places alone. My inaugural solo trip was to Seattle and the location were I was staying had a lot of homeless in the area who appeared to be struggling with addiction or mental health disorders. While I certainly feel badly about their situation, it didn't feel particularly safe for me to be out and about by myself at night. I would try to return to my hotel room every night by 7 before dark. This limited my experience of Seattle nightlife. One of the locals I met bartended at a unique bar with specialty cocktails and he suggested I check it out. As I felt uncomfortable being out late by myself I was unable to see if this bar was a "hidden gem" I could recommend on my blog. Even during the day there can be risks. In Seattle, I was in close proximity to a violent interaction between an Uber driver and a pedestrian that involved pepper spray, a chokehold and a throwdown! Being in that situation by myself was very scary and unsettling. Solo Travel...Still an Amazing Experience! All in all, my experience of traveling alone was amazing and something I look forward to doing again. The freedom, the personal growth benefits and the self confidence boost you get from venturing out on your own outweighs any uncertainties and anxieties about traveling by yourself. You don't need to jump into the deep end like I did with a whole week in a new large city! If you are more of a "dip your toe in the water" kind of person, just start with a solo weekend getaway closer to home and reap the benefits of a little alone time. You will come back a changed person!

"The mountains are calling and I must go." - John Muir Growing up in Colorado, I took the mountains for granted. The Rocky Mountains were a constant backdrop to my days and mainly served as a convenient reference for this directionally challenged girl (in Denver, mountains are always to the west). Don't get me wrong, I took advantage of living so close to the mountains. On a sunny day I might pause to admire them in the distance and I frequently took day trips to enjoy skiing with family or friends. But it wasn't until I took a recent ski vacation to Breckenridge that I feel like I truly appreciated the beauty and majesty of the Colorado Rockies for the first time. I have lived on the East Coast for the past 17 years, so I guess absence does make the heart grow fonder. Breckenridge is a former mining town that started as a gold rush base camp in the 1850's. This history gives the town a quaint Victorian feel that is preserved in the Breckenridge National Historic District which runs along Main Street in the center of the town. Colorfully painted buildings from the 1880's and 90's house over 300+ boutiques, shops and restaurants. Breckenridge is a year-round resort that has so much to offer it should be a "must see" on your travel bucket list. Here are a few of the highlights to encourage you to start planning your own mountain getaway. Best Place to Stay: Breckenridge is filled with hotels and condos so you should have no problem finding a place to stay. My go-to is to reserve a condo/house through Airbnb. I usually find a spacious place that is cheaper then a hotel room and we then have access to a kitchen to help cut costs on eating out. The condo we stayed at in Breckenridge was beautiful and had an awesome location walking distance to the lifts on Peak 9 and the downtown area. I highly recommend it! Best Things to Do: Ski or snowboard, of course! Breckenridge is mostly known as a ski area, so skiing and snowboarding are the most obvious choices. The ski area has 5 Peaks (Peaks 6-10), 187 ski trails, 2,908 acres to ski or board and the highest lift-served terrain in North America! Each Peak has its' own "personality, charm and stats". Check out the descriptions for each Peak here . In addition to incredible runs, Breck (as the locals call it) also offers a few different terrain parks for the more adventurous among us. The expansiveness of the area calls for some planning when you are skiing. You need to make sure that towards the end of the day you will end up at the bottom of the Peak closest to your accommodations. But no worries, if you don't end up in the right spot, there are free shuttles that can take you back to your starting location. If you aren't a ski/snowboard enthusiast, do not despair! Breck offers many other options. In the winter, you can go tubing, snowmobiling or cross country skiing. If you find yourself in the mountains in the spring or summer, there are awesome hiking trails, bike trails/paths and alpine slides. There is no shortage of outdoor activities to keep you occupied. If you are tuckered out from all of the mountain activities, take a rest day and leisurely stroll down historic Main Street. Wander in and out of the local stores (see my favorites in Where to Shop below), check out the art galleries and grab a bite at one of the many restaurants (see What to Eat below). Main Street is also a beautiful place for a night time stroll. YOU CAN SKIP: The outlets in Dillon. They are run down and many stores are closed. It is not worth the drive to Dillon. There were more interesting shops right in Breckenridge! Best Places to Eat: Breckenridge has a plethora of different restaurants to satisfy any craving you may have. We used the kitchen in our condo to fix most meals. You can buy groceries at the Safeway or the Walmart just a short trip down the road in Frisco. But who wants to cook every night on vacation? So we did take the opportunity to eat at a few of the local spots. Here are some of my favorites: Flipside Burgers: Flipside is a chef-driven burger and shake joint. They use locally sourced ingredients and the burgers are made with grass-fed beef. Many of the burgers and shakes are created interesting ingredients and gourmet flair. They also offer grilled chicken sandwiches and other tasty entrees. One of the best cheeseburgers I have ever had! Find more information and the menu here . Fiesta Jalisco: One thing I have missed living on the East Coast is authentic Mexican food! I hit the jackpot here. Fiesta Jalisco is a family owned restaurant with authentic Mexican cuisine. They provide delicious food and fast table service. The margarita was the finishing touch! Find more information and the menu here . Breckenridge Brewery: One of the nation's top craft breweries is located right on Main Street in Breckenridge. They still brew all their beers on site so you can't get a fresher beer on tap. They have a tasty pub menu with typical bar food so you can drink your craft beers on a full stomach. Find more information about their various craft beers and the menu here . Mountain Top Cookie Shop: You cannot come to Breckenridge and not stop at the Mountain Top Cookie Shop! There is always a line (which should tell you something), but the cookies are worth the wait. You can get your favorite Chocolate Chip cookie, but Mountain Top takes it to the next level with the variety of flavors you can choose from. To make it easier for you to pick, they offer a Buy 6, Get 2 Free deal. If you are a real bargain hunter, you can buy day old packs in the store. They do ship cookies world wide so you don't have to wait to get to Breckenridge to try these yummy treats! Order here . Crepes Ala Cart: DISCLAIMER: I did not actually eat at Crepes Ala Cart. However, my sister gave a glowing review of the crepes served out of a trailer on Main Street. Even without my sister's input, I would have figured out that this was a hot spot given the long line at any given time. Therefore, I would be remiss if I did not include this spot on the Where to Eat list. Crepes Ala Cart offers a wide variety of both sweet and savory crepes and you also have the option to create your own unique Crepe! Will definitely have to brave the line the next time I am in Breckenridge! See all of your choices here . Best Places to Shop: There are so many great shops to wander in and out of as you stroll up and down Main Street and the surrounding area. The stores run the gamut from fine art to tacky tourist souvenirs, fashionable clothing to T-shirts/sweatshirts splashed with "Breckenridge", unique home decor to unusual decorative socks. Anything you are looking for, you can probably find on Main Street. Two particular stores stood out to me and I went back to browse more than once! First, Marigolds Farmhouse Funk & Junk sounds just like its name. It is an eclectic store filled with all kinds of "funk" and "junk". You can spend hours roaming in this store looking at everything crammed into the space in an artsy, decorative manner; new unique gift items masterfully interwoven with old antiques that are all available for purchase. The second store I loved was Ruby Jane's which sells women's clothing, shoes, jewelry and unique home decor items. Again, products are artfully displayed and the whole vibe is very calming and cozy. SO WHAT'S STOPPING YOU? Even if the current ski season is wrapping up, you can get started planning a Colorado mountain getaway at Breckenridge for next season. Or, if you don't want to wait that long, Breck has plenty to offer during the summer, so pack your bags! Let's go!

Iconic Red Rock Formations in the Foothills of Denver I turned 60 last September and such milestone birthdays have a tendency to make you think about the life you have lived so far. For me that journey includes living in several different states and towns. As I think back on the various places I've called home, I realize there is a piece of every place I've lived inside of me. Each town, each home, each street that once held my footprints still lingers reminding me of who I was at that time. Some places left gentle imprints; others carved themselves into my soul, shaping me in ways I'll never fully understand. My current home is in Saratoga Springs, New York and the life I have created in this place is one I truly love. It was forged out of sadness, strength, hope and finally joy following my divorce. Saratoga Springs will always hold a special place in my heart because it is where I finally became the truest version of myself. I discovered the kind of person I want to be and the things that are important to me. I found out (or remembered) I am a strong, resilient and independent woman and can do whatever I set my mind to. These realizations have been life changing and Saratoga Springs may be the final place I call home. But of all the places I've called home, the one that holds the deepest roots is Colorado. Colorado is the place that built the foundation for everything that followed. At this point, Colorado is the place I spent the most years. My parents moved our family to Colorado in 1970 and Northglenn (a suburb of Denver) is basically the first hometown I really remember. The Etscheid Family Circa 1970 (or 1971) To me, Colorado is more than just a pin on the map; it is the place that holds my heart. Not only because my parents, my sister and her family, and most recently Madison, my oldest daughter, live there, but because the essence of who I am, what I value and the things I still love today were all influenced by growing up in Colorado. Colorado is certainly a beautiful state. The bright blue sky, the over 300 days of sunshine, the Rocky Mountain skyline...just a few of the things that come to mind when I think of my old home state. But more important than that, are the aspects of my personality that make me a Coloradoan even when I have lived in upstate New York for the last 20 years! I'm sure readers of this blog can look back at their childhood hometown (or hometowns if there was more than one) and see how that specific location molded them and still impacts them today. It is crazy how subtly these places shape us and create the lens through which all other life experiences are viewed. As my parents age, I have been making more frequent trips back to my old stomping grounds and that is what triggered this reflection. As I drive around Denver passing familar haunts I am flooded with memories. I vividly remember the heart and mind of the young girl who grew into a young woman in this place. This is where I experienced most of the huge milestones of life... my first boyfriend, high school and college (and the resulting graduations), my first "adult" job out of college, my first professional job after law school, getting married, and having both of my girls (with lots of other "firsts" in between). Although I have experienced a lot more life since then, that Colorado girl is still very much a part of who I am today. 1986 Alum of Colorado State University For example, I am an avid sports fan and that can absolutely be traced back to the sports-crazed town of my youth. I became a Bronco fan first and that was disappointing for many years (the Craig Morton years, iykyk) and VERY exciting for many years after that (those awesome John Elway years). I actually went to a Super Bowl rally by myself with newborn Madison strapped to my chest in a Baby Bjorn. We were actually highlighted in a Rocky Mountain News article about Bronco fans! Then came the Denver Nuggets and the Colorado Avalanche (going to the Stanley Cup in the first year there!). Colorado natives love their sports and the society revolves around the Denver sports teams. When we moved to upstate New York, I immediately missed that energy and have tried to jump on the bandwagon of various New York teams, but since NY fandom is split between several different teams, it just isn't the same. I am alone among most of my female friends in NY by wanting to watch major sporting events and following the stats. That definitely comes from my Denver upbringing where EVERYONE was a super fan! I really, really miss the sports town energy so whenever I am visiting, I try to attend at least one Colorado sporting event. Can't believe I only rated myself a 7 as a Super Fan...but I am still definitely not a face painter! Supporting the Colorado Avalanche Scored Last Minute Tickets to Last Year's Game 1 Playoff Game Against the Lakers I am also a huge lover of music and used to pride myself on being on top of up and coming artists. My favorite station in Denver is KBCO, an alternative rock station, which highlights musicians that are new and more off-beat. The music of my teens and 20's was broad and diverse thanks to that station and I miss having an easy way to stay current. As soon as I get back into Denver putting KBCO on the radio takes me back in time (some of the DJs are still the same) and I always learn of some new bands that I can't wait to research more. On my latest visit I learned of a new band from Ireland called The Inhalers. There's a little insider music tip for you. Another part of my Colorado music foundation was going to concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. I took for granted the amazing concert venue right in my own back yard. Now that I have moved away I realize what a gift it was to experience live music at such a spectacular place. Madison actually lives fairly close to Red Rocks and you can see the iconic rock formations from the road. Whenever I see them I remember all the shows that form treasured memories in my mind...several Jimmy Buffet concerts, Sting, Pat Benatar, Jefferson Airplane, UB40, Loverboy, Billy Squire, Lyle Lovett, Kris Kristofferson, the Beach Boys, the list goes on. As I mentioned, my taste was diverse and I loved every show I saw there. If you are around my age and reading this I am sure that list takes you down memory lane as well. All I can say is I am glad there is no photographic evidence of some of the crazy times at Red Rocks...especially those Jimmy Buffet concerts! Red Rocks Amphitheatre Of course growing up in Colorado, skiing was a given. I grew up driving west on I-70 VERY early on weekend mornings (because my dad had to get there before the lifts started). I have years of fond memories skiing with friends and family. I gave it up for many years once we moved to the northeast, but I have recently picked it back up and I missed it! Luckily skiing is like riding a bike and the skills come right back (however the ski leg muscles may need some work!). It is crazy how my brain remembers the ski trails and lodges of the Colorado areas I skied for all those years...it feels like no time has passed. I am so grateful to have grown up skiing in Colorado so that it is something I can jump back into now. Growing up and into adulthood, I used to ski a lot with my sister Brenda and my friend Laurie. On one of my recent visits back home I went to one of my favorite areas, Copper Mountain, and spent the day skiing with Brenda, Laurie, and now Madison! It brought back so many great memories and it was so fun. The awesome bluebird skiing day was pretty great too! Me Skiing Circa 1970s...Check Out That Groovy Ski Outfit! Miles of Trails Skied with Laurie (Circa 1990s) Back With My Trail Blazing Gang The people that became part of my life as I grew up in Colorado also had a huge impact on who I am today. Luckily, I am still in touch with several high school and college frients that live in Denver, so it is always great to see them when I return. These people knew me as a young child before the journey of life took me to different places and shaped my views. But they also know me now when the ups and downs of that journey have had impacts. Words can't describe the depths of those long time bonds. These friends know where I came from and we have the same old childhood stories (which we recount frequently on our visits). They also know my parents so as I struggle with their aging, and particularly my mom's Alzheimer's, it is so helpful to have people who have known them for years and remember them like I do. They Have Known Me FOREVER! Friends for Decades Even though the reason for my frequent trips back is sad (Alzheimer's SUCKS!), it has given me the opportunity to experience the gratitude of the things Colorado has given me and how it has shaped me. Through the pain of watching my parents age and my mom's memory slipping away, there is some comfort in wrapping myself in the memories of growing up here and surrounding myself with people who knew my parents as they were. My recent day of skiing with Laurie and my sister was filled with stories of my dad who taught me to ski and always drove us to the ski areas. We remembered his pointers on our skiing form AND advice on how to save money in the cafeteria ("Soup and apple is all you need! Don't spend a fortune on a hamburger!") There are memories of spending time with my mom around every corner. The first time we took Madison to see Santa at the Cherry Creek Mall. Our frequent trips to the neighborhood Target with Taylor while Madison was in kindergarten. Taylor still comments on the soda and popcorn my mom would grab to sustain her as we browsed the store finding toys for the girls and other things we didn't need. I laugh with my friends remembering how my mom would pile us in the car and drive us past our crushes houses before we could drive. Colorado holds so many cherished memories and with Madison living there again I am sure there are many more to come. If you haven't made a visit to your hometown in a while, I highly recommend a trip down memory lane. If you can't physically go, it is worth the time to reflect on where you grew up and see how it has influenced who you are today. Hopefully you will feel the same love and gratitude for the place that made you! Recent Visit Back to the Old Stomping Grounds

Annecy, France-Old Town I saw so many amazing places and incredible sights on my two week journey through the Alps, but one place in particular just touched my soul and made a huge impact on me. That place was Annecy, France. Annecy is a small alpine town in southeastern France (right by the border with Switzerland) that is nestled in the French Alps and situated right on Lac d'Annecy. For planning purposes, Annecy is about 40 minutes drive from Geneva, Switzerland; an hour and ten minute drive from Chamonix-Mont Blanc; and accessible by train from Paris. Annecy is called the "Venice of the Alps" because of the canal that winds through the center of the old town. From the moment I got off the bus, I was mesmerized by the scenery and the vibe of this place. I was immediately enchanted by the cobblestone streets; the full, colorful flower boxes; and the pastel colored buildings that line the canal in the Vielle Ville ("Old Town"). Not to mention the crystal blue water of Lac d'Annecy and magnificence of the surrounding mountain peaks of the French Alps. I had never heard of Annecy before my trip, but now I am contemplating getting a tourist visa and living in Annecy for an extended period! That's how much I loved it! Best Things to Do In Annecy: Stroll around Old Town and take in the sights and sounds of the area. There are frame-worthy pictures to be taken around every corner. You will especially want to snap a photo in front of Palais de I'lle, the historic turret that divides the River Thiou into two canals. It was built in the 12th century and is one of France's most photographed locations! The streets are lined with charming cafés and coffee shops, boutique stores and historic architecture. You feel like you have gone back in time and entered into the setting of a romance novel! I loved just wandering around and listening to the mixture of languages being spoken. But I especially love to listen to the magical sound of the French language. It is my goal to learn how to speak fluent French at some point. Palais de I'lle in Annecy, France If you are in Annecy on a Tuesday, Friday or Sunday morning, you are very lucky! There is an open air market on these days selling fresh cheeses, meats, vegetables and fruits. I even picked up freshly made specialty Salted Carmel/Almond Nougat (which I ate before snapping a photo for this blog...oops!). You can often have samples of the cheeses and meats before you purchase. One cheese that is special to the area is Reblochan De Savoie. You have to sample it or eat a dish made with it (see below). It is delicious! You can also get Raclette, a semi-hard cow's milk cheese that is melted on an open fire for the best cheese fondue. Yum! You can purchase these cheeses in a vacuum packed bag so that you can bring it back home with you on the plane. Make sure to get to the market early because it closes down at 1:00. Take a cruise on Lake Annecy (or Lac d'Annecy if you want to sound like a local). Lake Annecy is the third largest lake in France and has the honor of being the cleanest lake in Europe! You can see the evidence in the pictures below. There are several cruise options varying in length of time, boat size and whether or not you get a meal. We opted for the short one hour commentary cruise (although commentary was only in French so I didn't get the full experience). Regardless, the views were amazing and it was fun to get out on the water on a beautiful day. Check out the Château d'Annecy, a castle that sits on the hill above the Old Town. There is a steep walk up from the center of Old Town or you can reach it by car. The castle now hosts a museum with local sculpture and art and a nature exhibit about animals and fish native to the area. There are also great views from the top of the hill. I didn't have time to go inside to the museum, but it is 5 Euro for adults and kids under 12 are free. Learn to Paraglide! I did not do this on this quick visit, but would seriously consider it if I do return for an extended stay. Apparently Annecy is the most famous paragliding site in Europe. I can only imagine the views from above as you set off from a peak in the Alps over the crystal blue Lake Annecy! Oh my! I left several things on my bucket list for my eventual return to this beautiful town! I still need to check out the Jardins de l'Europe (a large park right next to the lake with beautiful scenery and art sculptures), bike around the lake, lounge on the beaches, visit the Castle Museum, and so much more. Oh yeah, and as I said, I want to become fluent in French! I figure immersion in the culture for a month or two is the best way to accomplish that. Favorite Local Food in Annecy: One thing there is no shortage of in Europe is good food and Annecy is no exception! Annecy has several local dishes that you have to try when you visit. Our tour guide recommended that we try Tartiflette which is a dish using the local Reblochon cheese mentioned above with potatoes, lardons and onions. It is a signature dish for Annecy. Of course I took her suggestion (I mean, she is the expert!) and found a quaint little cafe, Le Beau Soleil, to try it out. Le Beau Soleil sits alongside the canal and had lovely ambiance for my relaxing lunch. You can find the menu here (but you may have to hit the Google translation button to view it in English). I ordered the Tartiflette des Aravis (which is the Tartitflette dish with bacon...which was actually just little bits of ham), a fresh salad and a glass of white wine. It was literally one of the most delicious meals of my whole trip! C'est très magnifique! If you don't go for the Tartiflette, another great option is to order Raclette fondue which is available almost everywhere. Raclette is a popular meal in Switzerland and France and you must try it at least once on your journey through the Alps. But my guess is you will have it more than one time because it is that good! After walking off my fullness from the Tartiflette, of course I had to sample the ice cream at Le Glacier des Alpes. It is considered to be one of the best ice cream shops in France! They have over 45 flavors so it is hard to choose (even for the most decisive), but I don't think you can go wrong with whatever choice you make. Again, there is no photo because I was too excited to begin enjoying my cone! I hope you can feel my love and enthusiasm for this charming little town. I was so unexpectedly surprised by the area and can't wait to go back! I definitely left my heart in Annecy. Who knows, maybe by the time you are planning your trip I will be living there and speaking fluent French so I can be your personal tour guide! Au Revoir!

Barcelona, Spain I can't believe it! Pretty soon I will set off on an adventure through Spain! I have been wanting to get back to Europe for a while now and an opportunity to join some friends on a group trip presented itself. I haven't been to Spain before so I am super excited! We are going on a journey organized by Gate 1 Travel starting in Lisbon, Portugal and then heading over to Spain to explore Seville, Ronda, Costa del Sol, Granada, Madrid and Barcelona. As I have shared before, I do love planning my own trips and truly enjoy doing the research to figure out what I want to see and do. But there is a definite advantage to booking a group travel trip and letting them handle the details of booking the hotels and planning the itinerary. All I have to do is think about what I want to pack (which as you may know is no easy task for me!). It is also nice to have them transport your luggage to each hotel room you stop at along the way. No lugging my huge suitcase up flights of stairs this trip! Phew! In addition to packing, there is always a bunch of organizing to do before leaving home for an extended trip. To make sure I don't forget anything, I have a checklist of all the things I need to do before leaving for an international vacation. My Checklist: Doublecheck entry requirements (passport, visa, vaccination requirements) and make sure all documentation is in order. Passport must have an expiration date more than six months past the return date. Make a copy or take a picture of passport and visa documentation in the event they are lost or stolen. This will provide all the information needed to obtain a replacement. Make sure I have enough medication to pack for the length of my entire trip. Given the frequency of airline delays and cancellations these days, I always pack up to an extra week of medications in case I am delayed getting home. If I don't have enough for this time period, refill prescriptions the week before departure. Make sure I have a sufficient supply of eye contacts to get me through my entire trip. If not, order new supply a week or two before departure. Locate my universal plug adapter, voltage converter and determine the required plug types for my destination. If I don't have what I need, make sure to purchase. Contact cell phone provider for information on roaming charges or international calling plans at my destination. Research tipping standards for location I am visiting, consider services I will be receiving that will require tipping (tour guides, trip organizer, tour bus driver, etc), and secure enough cash to cover these gratuities. Which leads to the next checklist item... Secure local currency for places I will be visiting so I have some handy for tips, small purchases, etc. Generally there are better rates of exchange overseas, but need to make sure I have enough to use when I first arrive. I usually find a bank ATM once I arrive to withdraw some cash. If you want to get currency before you leave, allow plenty of time to order the appropriate currency from your bank. This may take a few days. Call my credit union/bank to find out about ATM withdrawal fees and to advise of travel plans so they don't deny my card for possible fraud while I am abroad. Arrange for a pet sitter to take care of my cats while I am away. Make sure I have enough food and other supplies for the entire time. If not, restock. Arrange for mail to be held while away. Start to assess packing needs based on travel plans and climate of location so I can purchase anything I might need for my trip. A girl always needs a couple of new outfits when going on vacation! Start gathering all my items together so I am not scrambling trying to find things the night before! I am working on checking things off this list now so I can just relax and get excited for my Spanish adventure as it gets closer. If you don't already, be sure to follow me on Facebook (Rambleandroamblog) and Instagram (rambleandroamblog) to catch live and up to the minute updates of the beautiful sights of Portugal and Spain. See you on the flip side!

Ronna Phelps, the owner of Pongo Lifestyle is a lover of Great Apes, especially orangutans. She was a Volunteer Keeper's Assistant for orangutans and gorillas for 25 years. During that time, she became educated about these creatures and their habitat and became aware of the deforestation of palm oil crops and the direct impact that had on the existence of orangutans, gorillas and other inhabitants of the rainforest. Here are some facts listed on the Pongo Lifestyle website about the impact the Palm Oil Industry has had on orangutans: 80% loss of habitat over the last 30 years 90% population loss over the last 10 years 50% probability of extinction in the wild within the next 10 years In response, Ms. Phelps created a palm oil free skin care line named Pongo in honor of the orangutans. "Pongo" is the scientific name for the orangutan. Pongo became the first nationally and internationally distributed palm oil free body and skin care line. Ms. Phelps has since developed several other product lines: Rainforest Kisses (lip balms and bath products) Grape Ape (a line of kid's products) Rock of Apes (a body care and clothing line with a rock and roll edge) Camp Pongo (outdoor products) Pongo Pet (accessories and grooming products for pets) and Indah (body care with an exotic mix of floral and spice). All of these product lines came together to form Pongo Lifestyle, a business with a mission to sell luxurious cruelty-free and palm oil free products. Proceeds from the sale of items at Pongo Lifestyle help support Orangutan Project, Center for Great Apes and Orang Tan Repuiblik. The store's design is beautiful and artistic. There are amazing wall murals everywhere that were painted by a local artist. The store is filled with an eclectic mix of items, including all of the Pongo product lines created by Ms Phelps. I loved exploring all the nooks and crannies of this store admiring the selection of products, the merchandising displays and the artwork. And I felt good that my purchase helps out the Great Apes and orangutans. My sister and I spent a long time chatting with Ronna and her assistant learning about Ronna's background and the history of the Pongo product lines and the opening of the physical store location at 5738 South Rapp Street. Her story was so interesting and inspiring and her love for the Great Apes and orangutans was apparent. You can follow the store's instagram for more insight into its' products and mission! "ONE CHANGE DAILY CAN HELP GREAT APES AND OTHER INHABITANTS OF THE RAINFOREST" -Rhonna Phelps

I am going to start a new Travel Throwback series that highlights some of my favorite past trips. If you have been to any area I spotlight in a Travel Throwback blog, please feel free to comment with your memories of the locale or, even better, if you have been there more recently fill us in on any changes to the area or new things to see and do! A Not So Hidden Gem in Paris! My first Travel Throwback features the charming village of Montmartre in France. Back in August 2017, we took a family trip to Europe on our way to drop off my oldest daughter Madison in Florence, Italy for a semester abroad. We started our journey with a couple of days in Paris. Because we didn't have a lot of time, we shook off the jet lag to begin exploring. We did our usual "get our bearings" thing doing a bus tour around Paris. We decided on a whim to hop off of our Hop On/Hop Off tour bus to check out the big white church that sits high on a hill overlooking Paris. It turned out to be my absolute favorite part of our Paris adventure! Sacre Coeur Means the Sacred Heart of Jesus The big white church was actually the stunning Basilica Sacre Coeur which is surrounded by the charming village of Montmartre. Once we hopped off the bus, we had to climb steep cobblestone streets and what seemed like hundreds of stairs to reach Sacre Coeur. If you aren't as brave (or if you realize there is an easier way unlike us), you can actually hop on the little white Montmartre train that will wind its way up the steep hills through the village providing tour commentary as you go. The train will get you to the base of the hill that Sacre Coeur sits on, and then you can take a funicular to the entry of the basilica and avoid all those steps! Or you can climb the hills and stairs and arrive at the top sweaty and out of breath like we did. The choice is yours. However you get to the top, once you arrive you will be treated to the stunning architecture of Sacre Coeur. It is totally white and due to its color and location can be seen from almost anywhere in Paris. As you can imagine, the views of Paris once you reach the top of the hill are spectacular. If the dome on top of the basilica is open you can go up to the top and get a panoramic view of Paris. Either place is definitely the spot to grab that Instaworthy photo looking down over Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the background. I have poured over my photos and unfortunately cannot find my pic of Paris from the Montmartre viewpoint. Unbelievable! If you are reading this blog and have one, PLEASE share in the comments so people can see the awesome view. Going up to Sacre Coeur with a bottle of wine to sit on the steps and watch the sunset would also be an amazing experience! Village of Montmartre After you have taken your amazing photo and have checked out the largest mosaic in France inside the Sacre Coeur, you will wander down the cobblestone streets into a quaint bohemian style village filled with art galleries, cafes, boulangeries, and small shops. Montmartre was an artist haven in the early 19th and 20th centuries and you can almost feel the ghosts of Renoir, Pissarro, Van Gogh, and Matisse wandering along the streets. If you go to Place du Tertre just behind Sacre Coeur, you will find an open space where current artists are creating art before your eyes. You can also get your portrait drawn or painted by one of these artists if you like. There are several art museums paying homage to the artistic history of Montmartre, including a museum devoted to Salvador Dali. Montmartre is a perfect place to immerse yourself in art and art history if that interests you. Ahhh...the French Macaroons If you are feeling a little hungry or thirsty from all that climbing, Montmartre has no shortage of cafes for you to grab a bite to eat and glass of wine (of course!). We also stopped at a boulangerie and picked up some of the best Macaroons I've ever had! They were fresh and there was the widest assortment of flavors I have ever seen. Nothing like eating a French Macaroon in France! Moulin Rouge and Nightlife We weren't there for the nightlife, but apparently it is noteworthy so if you are in the area in the evening (perhaps after watching the sunset) you will want to check it out. You especially want to check out the famous Moulin Rouge. Maybe you can even take in a cabaret show while you are there! Make Sure Not to Miss Montmartre! When you plan a trip to Paris, you obviously think of the Eiffel Tour, the Louvre, Champs D'elysee and the Arc de Triomphe. But make sure you leave time in your itinerary to visit Sacre Coeur and Montmartre. I promise you will not regret it. It could end up being your favorite part of Paris too!

When traveling these days, you never know how the day is going to go. If you are lucky (as I have been lately...hope I didn't just jinx myself), it will be super smooth from Point A to Point B with no disruptions. However, most of the travel stories I am hearing lately tell tales of unexpected delays, being stuck on the runway for hours, cancellations, diversions...you name it. Because the unexpected is not necessarily an unusual occurrence when airline travel is involved, you need to make sure that your carry on has everything you need to handle these complications like a pro. Here is a complete list of Carry On Essentials to make sure you are ready for whatever your travel day throws at you! Carry On Essential s: Identification -Driver's License or Passport (Be aware of upcoming REAL ID requirement effective May 3, 2023) Cash and Credit/Debit Cards -Make sure to always bring some cash for tips and those instances where a credit or debit card is not accepted. Travel Documentation -Documents that have all the detailed information regarding your trip. Boarding passes, printed out itineraries, printed out confirmations for booked tours, hotel reservations, etc. I like to keep all these documents in a folder for easy access. You can't always depend on wifi or cell phone battery and you may need to access these documents in a pinch. Cell Phone and Charger (or Power Pack for extended battery life) Lap Top and Charger Earbuds or Headphones -If you have Apple headphones, don't forget a converter so you can plug in if you want to utilize the onboard flight entertainment. Alternatively, you can buy a bunch of cheap headphones at the dollar store and just keep them in your carry on so you always have headphones that will work on the airplane jacks. Medications -Always bring your medications with you and not in your checked bag in case your luggage doesn't show up at the same place you do! Make sure to pack a few extra days' worth of medication in case you get unexpectedly stranded somewhere. Extra Change of Clothes and Undies -Again, important if you and your luggage end up going on separate trips! Also nice if you have a long, overnight flight so you can freshen up in the morning and feel rejuvenated upon arrival. It is also nice to have an extra sweater or sweatshirt with you if you get cold during your flight or the temperature at your destination is a little cooler. Travel Toiletries -Follow TSA's 3-1-1 Rule for Carry On toiletries. The 3-1-1 Rule is that each person can carry on liquids, gels or aerosols in travel size containers of 3.4 oz (or 100 milliters) that fit into one quart size clear bag. Things to think about bringing are toothpaste/toothbrush, mouthwash, lotion, contact solution, makeup remover, deodorant, feminine hygiene items, etc. Being able to freshen up during a long flight by brushing your teeth or taking off yesterday's make up is great. Extra Contacts/Glasses/Sunglasses -Throw in some extra contacts and your regular eyeglasses so you are not stranded if your luggage takes a detour. Also make sure you have a couple of pairs of reading glasses if you are of a certain age where they are required to read small print...I wouldn't know anything about that [smirk]. And don't forget your sunglasses if you are going somewhere where the sun will be shining! Valuable Jewelry -You may want to keep your valuable jewelry with you so you can feel confident that it is safe and secure and you won't lose it if your luggage is accidentally misplaced. Snacks -Given that these days the food on the plane amounts to a bag with 5 tiny pretzels, I always like to make sure I have packed some snacks in my bag. Even on shorter flights I pack a bag of almonds, some Luna or Kind bars and maybe some chocolate for my sweet tooth. You may want to pack a bagel or a sandwich so you have something more substantial to eat in the event of a long layover or flight delay. Also make sure to pack some gum or breath mints so you don't overwhelm your seat mates with bad breath after you eat that Everything Bagel! I am a Diet Soda addict so I always purchase one at the airport store so I don't have to wait for the flight attendants to make their way to my seat. I usually also grab a water bottle for hydration, but you can also bring along a refillable bottle to use once you are through security. Book or Magazines Tylenol or Advil Pen -Especially important on international flights as you will have to fill out Customs forms before arrival. Covid Essentials -In the post-pandemic travel world, be sure to pack hand-sanitizer, disinfectant wipes and extra face masks (in case they are needed to enter some tourist sites or local market places). With these items in your Carry On bag, you will be equipped to handle any crazy travel hurdle placed in your path. It will still be frustrating, but at least you will be as comfortable as you can be while trying to get to your destination or get back home! Happy (prepared) Travels!

For a more detailed description of the places referenced in this Quick Guide, check out my Best of Nashville-Ultimate Guide here . Best Places To Stay: In the Gulch. Many Air Bnbs in this location. Downtown Nashville. I recommend Drury Plaza Hotel Nashville Downtown . Best Way to Get Your Bearings: Old Town Trolley Nashville Tours . Best Things to Do: Honkey Tonk Bar Crawl (Of Course!) Country Line Dance Lessons at Wildhorse Saloon Ryman Auditorium (See a show or take a tour of this historic location.) Gaylord Convention Center/Grand Ole Opry Yee Haw Brewery/Ole Smokey Distillery Country Music Hall of Fame Johnny Cash/Patsy Cline Museum Best Places to Eat: Hot Chicken at Prince's or Hattie B's Assembly Food Hall Biscuit Love Milk & Honey Yee Haw Brewery Goo Goo Chocolate Store Best Places to Shop: The Gulch -Kittenish, Parish Boutique, Paddywax Candles, The Turnip Truck Urban Fare, Urban Outfitters, Lululemon, and other design studios and clothing boutiques. Marathon Village -Antique Archealogy (owned by Mike Wolfe of American Pickers), The Ville Merch, Boswell's Harley Davidson, Jack Daniels General Store, Nashville Olive Oil Company, and other jewelry and home decor stores. Also moonshine and whiskey tasting at Tennessee Legend Distillery. Broadway -Located near Assembly Food Hall, features many high end chain stores as well as the Nash Collection for that trendy Nashville sweatshirt.

For a more detailed description of the places referenced in this Quick Guide, please check out my blog Best of San Antonio-Ultimate Guide here . Best Place To Stay: No question here, stay somewhere on the Riverwalk! I highly recommend Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk . Best Way to Get Your Bearings: City Sightseeing Hop On/Hop Off Tour Bus . Best Things To Do: Walk or Cruise the Riverwalk Tour the Alamo Historic Market Square La Villita Historic Art Village Pearl Shopping District Gruene Historic District/New Braunfels Best Places To Eat: La Panaderia Bakery and Cafe Domingo

For a more detailed description of the places referenced in this Quick Guide, please check out my blog Best of Austin-Ultimate Guide here . Best Places To Stay: There are several different "Districts" in downtown Austin that each have their own distinct vibe. You should pick a hotel that is located in the District that is situated closest to the things you are most interested in. Here is a summary of some of the more popular entertainment Districts: Congress Ave Historical District Sixth Street Entertainment District Rainey Street District Red River Cultural District Second Street District I stayed at the Driskill Hotel in the Sixth Street Entertainment District which is the oldest operating hotel in Austin. For a complete description of each district and more details on the Driskill, read my blog here . Best Things To Do: Congress Street Bats State Capitol Tours Lady Bird Lake University of Texas-Austin Campus South Congress ("SoCo") Shopping Esther's Follies Bars on Sixth Street Zilker Park/Barton Springs Pool/Zilker Botanical Gardens Best Places To Eat: Jo's Coffee -Breakfast Tacos Cooper's Old Time Pit BBQ Moonshine Bar and Grill 1886 Cafe & Bakery Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream

The Iconic Golden Gate Bridge Where To Stay: Chancellor Hotel -Boutique Hotel in Central Downtown right by Union Square Travelodge by Wyndham Presidio San Francisco -Budget hotel right across from Presidio What To Do: Walk, Bike or Drive Across the Golden Gate Bridge Presidio-Hike/Bike Trails, Museums, Monuments, Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center Cable Car Ride Lombard Street Fisherman's Wharf Take in a Baseball Game at Oracle Stadium Alcatraz Tour Painted Ladies on Alamo Square (for those Full House fans!) Haight Ashbury Land's End for hiking trails with incredible views of the Golden Gate Bridge! Bike or Cruise to Sausalito Day Trip to Yosemite Muir Woods National Monument to see the Redwoods Where To Eat: Boudin Bakery Chinatown-Any where! Ghiradelli Historic Square Copita Restaurant (in Sausalito) In-N-Out Burger