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
Good news: oil prices are falling and airline tickets in tandem. Bad news: security and passport control lines have an inverse correlation to these events. As part of the Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler Program, the Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) provides qualified travelers with a way to mostly avoid long waits when clearing security (it interfaces with the TSA pre-check program) and also set … Continue reading Got GOES?
Once I decide on a destination or itinerary, weeks, even months of research, planning, and preparing ensue. I read books about the history, politics and sometimes geography of country/countries I will visit. Whenever possible I immerse myself in novels and movies as well. I spend countless hours on the internet visiting sites both destination-specific and travel in general. Travel Magnolia’s Pinterest boards are full of … Continue reading Travel as Time Warp
I once traveled for ten days in four countries with a day pack. That was a long time ago. However, I do try to take only a carry-on size roller bag and a backpack whenever possible. My favorite suitcase conforms to European carry-on size restrictions, but has a zipper expansion feature that means I can bring home more than I take. I leave today for a … Continue reading Pack Light and Carry On
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