Travel

The legacy left by the Mayans included written language, magnificent architectural treasures, and sophisticated systems of astronomy and mathematics.

Vintage & Vine emphasizes local sourcing, local chefs and the best locally-available wines.

No offense against the Galapagos Islands. Home to giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and other exotic creatures, the archipelago off Ecuador’s coast ranks for me and many other travelers among the top places to visit before I die.

“You can steal my money but not my food.”  “If you want things to go exactly as planned, don’t come here.” Those words spoken by my Overseas Adventure Travel tour guide in Sicily, who actually loves his homeland, tell a lot about it.

With Halloween approaching, witches, goblins and other scary creatures – real or imagined – will be on many people’s minds. And soon at their front doors, demanding a “Trick or Treat.”

Steering our canoe around a turn in the river, my wife Fyllis and I suddenly were face-to-face — or, more accurately, face-to-knees — with a massive creature. Lifting its head, shoots of river greens cascading from its mouth, the huge moose stared at us as we stared back, then continued its meal.

For the avid traveler on your list, you can peruse catalogues or websites that specialize in items that make travel more convenient, comfortable or safe.

A floating market By Victor Block I knew the Caribbean island of Curacao is unfamiliar to many Americans, but the flight attendant’s announcement still caught me...

Women who live in a tiny mountain village sit together sewing lace tablecloths, which are famous for their beauty and fine workmanship. In a city not far away, diners at sidewalk cafes enjoy their fill of grilled pork, baked lamb and other local favorite foods. A white sand beach is the main attraction for people who are more interested in getting a tan rather than their fill of tasty treats.

A view of one of St. Kitts’ inviting beaches. By Victor Block The islands are about two miles and a 45-minute ferry boat ride apart. They...