Bonjour! Did you know that the French say huit jours when referring to a week’s time? There are various explanations but I like the one that mentions Sunday to Sunday “inclusive,” as opposed to “exclusive” weeks (interestingly the more common quinzaine used for two weeks only has one bonus day). I just had the great good fortune to spend a French week in Paris and … Continue reading An Eight-Day Week in Paris
I can’t wait to go back to Seville and spend another week – or even longer! Seville’s compact nature, strategic position on the Guadalqivir river and history dating to the 10th century CE is reflected in the Moorish influences juxtaposed with Castillian, ancient architecture with contemporary throughout this lovely city. Continue reading “Sublime Seville”
After an overnight flight and a seven hour time change, the first order of business for me is COFFEE! Even better is coffee with unbelievable pastries, which is what I found in Tallinn at the 150 year old Kohvik Maiasmokk. Continue reading “FoodieFriday | Tallinn, Estonia”
Puglia’s pristine coastline invites comparison to the Amalfi Coast. There are the same winding roads and stunning views, but none of the congestion. As in the interior, there are charming villages, with Otranto at the top of my list. The exquisite Church of the Madonna of Altomare sits above the bay overlooking Otranto. While every town has its places of worship, this one stands apart with … Continue reading By the Sea, By the Sea – Puglia Part 2
Compared to just about everywhere else in Italy, Puglia is relatively quiet, especially come September 1, when the Italian families who spend August there have returned to work and school. This may be the best time to enjoy the spectacular wine, bountiful produce and seafood. Inland Puglia features traffic-free country roads lined with trulli, fields of sheep, and endless groves of olive trees. There is nothing quite like just pressed olive … Continue reading Trulli, Madly, Deeply – Puglia Part I
There’s a reason Norwegians dominate nordic events in the Winter Olympics: they roller ski to places the rest of us access by train or car. Our last day in Oslo, we decided to venture a field to Holmenkollen, home to a 60 meter ski jump, the world’s oldest ski museum and some great hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. During our visit, we saw many … Continue reading Outside Oslo
Exploring Oslo by bike is a great way to see the city. From the Akershus Fortress, stopping at Snøhetta Architects’ fabulous Opera House (and be sure to take a walk on the roof), then through the heart of the city to Vigeland Park and the beautiful residential neighborhoods that adjoin it, there are well marked bike paths and friendly locals to help out if necessary. I can … Continue reading Awesome Oslo – part 2
Fika is the Swedish term for taking a break to enjoy coffee with a pastry and is a custom I quickly adopted. Kardemummabullar and kanelbullar (cardamon and cinnamon rolls) are the perfect accompaniment to fresh brewed coffee any time of day! Two favorite spots are Mellqvist Kaffebar in Södermalm (favorite of Mikael Blomqvist as well as his creator Stieg Larsson) and Snickarbacken 7 in central Stockholm. The … Continue reading Fika-licious
If good things come in small packages, then summer in Stockholm definitely qualifies. Even before the autumnal equinox, leaves are turning and mornings are cool. Nonetheless, September may be the best time to visit as the cruise ships have departed and the crowds have thinned. Central Stockholm spreads across 14 islands whose bridges provide magnificent vistas of old world buildings and busy waterways. There are a … Continue reading Short and Sweet – Summer in Stockholm
St. Mark’s Square with the its Basilica, numerous caffès and the Doge’s Palace is thronged with tourists year-round. However, there are wonderful neighborhoods to explore where the Venetians live and play. Whether you are going to Venice for the Biennale (through November 22, 2015) or just to enjoy one of the most beautiful cities on earth, make sure to visit the lesser known areas of Dorsoduro, and Santa Croce. … Continue reading Venice on My Mind
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