I first went to Paris in 2017 with my family. We only had a couple of days and we did a whirlwind tour of the expected highlights (Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, Montmartre) before we headed to our next destination. On that visit, we walked by the beautiful Palais Garner (which is the picture above) and knew it was connected to Phantom of the Opera, but unfortunately we didn't have time to do more than a drive-by. On my most recent visit, I had time to go back

When you think of visiting Paris, you probably think of the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, or the Louvre. Those are all iconic attractions and you should definitely take the opportunity to see them in person if you travel to Paris. However, if you want to dig a little deeper into Paris history (20 meters underground to be exact), I highly recommend a visit to the Paris Catacombs. Did You Know the Bones of 6 Million People Are Under Paris? Walls Built with Femur and tibl

There I was, sitting in the back of a taxi, ready to head home after an amazing trip to Paris and Northern France. I had just said goodbye to my travel companions and Rob, our wonderful group tour manager, and was ready to be heading back to my kitties and my cozy home in upstate NY. I did a quick inventory to make sure I had my phone, my purse and my passport. I reached my hand in my small cross-body purse fully expecting to feel the smooth, thin passport book that never

On my most recent trip to the south of France, I had the chance to enjoy a unique experience of truffle hunting! I will admit, I didn't used to be a fan of truffles. Over time, and with much effort to expand my palate, I have slowly come to appreciate the delicious flavor of these prized gems. After visiting a truffle farm in Grignan, France and learning more about how difficult it is to grow truffles and how they are hunted (by dogs or pigs!), I have even more appreciati

If you live anywhere near Saratoga Springs, New York, you are familiar with the Summer ritual that is going to the horse races at the "Spa". Saratoga Race Course opened in 1863 and hasn't slowed down since. The Saratoga track holds the title of the oldest continuously operating racetrack in the United States. Sports Illustrated has named it one of the top ten sporting venues in the country. If you have had the privilege of visiting the Saratoga Race Course in person you k

Saratoga Entrance Sign Off Union Avenue If you haven't spent a summer day at the Saratoga Race Course, you are missing out on one of upstate New York's (and horse racing's) most iconic traditions. Open since 1863, the Saratoga Race Course is where history, horse racing, and high-society flair come together for an experience that is equal parts thrilling and charming. I've spent many summer afternoons enjoying everything that the Saratoga horse racing season has to offer. Ev

If you are planning a trip to southern France-or even if you are not-let me make a case for putting Avignon at the top of your travel bucket list. I had a chance to visit this incredible walled city on my recent riverboat cruise on the Rhône and I left absolutely enchanted. From the moment you catch sight of the massive medieval ramparts that surround the city and stretch along the Rhône, you know you are somewhere special. Unfortunately we were only in this magical place fo

I have been wanting to visit the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts for a while. I finally got the chance to spend a weekend at this haven. A retreat at Kripalu offers a unique opportunity to step away from daily distractions and focus on healing, growth, and balance. It can change the way you see yourself and the world around you. This post explores what makes the Kripalu experience stand out and how it can transform your mind, spirit and bod

Les Baux de Provence village perched on rocky hill On my recent trip to southern France, one of my favorite stops was the charming village of Les Baux de Provence. Known for its dramatic hilltop location and rich history, Les Baux offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, medieval charm, and cultural experiences. It is consistently included in lists of the most beautiful French villages. In addition to exploring this quaint town, we got to experience one of the most u

Busy Street Corner in Pest I was eagerly anticipating our stop in Budapest on my tour through Central Europe last fall. I had heard nothing but good things from people I knew who had visited Budapest and they did not lead me astray. Budapest was a magical city with surprises around every corner. It is grand but not pretentious, historic but still modern, and relaxed yet lively. And even better...it is more affordable compared to other European capital cities. Now that I (