No one would ever mistake Manhattan for being a touchy-feely city. People mostly keep to themselves and the pace can make even the most type – A personality long for a breath. But now and then a holiday comes along and the city softens. Crowds brim with laughter and smiles and the only goal is […]
Destinations, North America, Pennsylvania, United States
Visit Eastern State Penitentiary: Al Capone’s Home before Alcatraz
25
Mar
Mar
Updated March 2019 If you’re like me, fascinated by the criminal mind, fading ruins, and history in its most infamous, Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia will make your day. It’s an icon of the world’s early penal system turned tourist attraction. You may recognize its cavernous cell blocks and post-apocalyptic vibe from the 1996 Sci-Fi […]
Africa, Destinations, Safaris, South Africa Safaris
Marlon du Toit: Life on Safari Leads To A Career In Wildlife Photography
19
Mar
Mar
On a trip to Africa, my mission was two-fold: I needed to escape my A.D.D., a necessary evil if you want a career in Manhattan (Africa, I found, is one of the few places on earth I can truly relax and be present), and to improve my wildlife photography skills. I have a seemingly infinite […]
Cruises, Destinations, Mexico, North America, Travel Stories
Swim with Sea Lions in Mexico’s Sea of Cortez
18
Mar
Mar
As the sea lions swim past me, banking, rolling, diving, zooming around in loop de loops like Hotwheels on a track, I am sure of one thing, even if this UnCruise adventure sucked (which it doesn’t), the trip would be worth it for this one hour. Sea Lions Live on Los Islotes We are at […]
Destinations, New York, North America, Photography, Photography Tips, Top Posts
Central Park in Fall – Best Places to See and Photograph Autumn Foliage
07
Mar
Mar
If I could only visit New York’s famous urban respite once a year to make photos, I’d choose Central Park in Fall. In winter, New York is a snow-capped wonderland. In spring and summer, a flower lover’s delight. But Central Park in Fall is utterly magical. There’s nothing like wandering the park’s winding paths and […]
03
Mar
Mar
It was he, Scarface the lion (Scar), curled up like a housecat in the grass, his thick dew-covered mane sparkling in the sun. His brothers Hunter, Sikio, and Morani were nearby; they also slept. The Four Musketeers, known for their prowess and savagery, instead looked precious where they lay. Updated June 2019 Though all are well […]
Africa, Botswana Safaris, Destinations, Safaris, Travel Stories
Duba Explorers Camp: For A Spectacular Okavango Delta Safari
03
Mar
Mar
It’s mid-morning and I’m crossing the long, raised boardwalk leading to the island, my excitement building with each plank left behind. I’ve come to Duba Explorers Camp, part of the Great Plains Conservation portfolio, in the first half of an eight-day Okavango Delta safari and though I’ve been to Botswana before, I couldn’t wait to […]
Destinations, New York, North America, United States
A Helpful Guide to the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx
02
Mar
Mar
I love Manhattan, but when I need a break from the concrete canyons I head to the Bronx and the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG). One of the country’s most beautiful historic landmarks, the garden is filled with lush flora, intriguing exhibits, and exciting family-friendly programs and activities. The botanical garden in NYC’s Bronx is […]
Alaska, Cruises, Destinations, Top Posts, United States
Holland America’s Alaska Land and Sea Cruise Adventure
01
Mar
Mar
I was embarking on the second half of my Holland America Alaska Land and Sea Cruise Adventure—the “sea” portion of my journey––and I couldn’t help but gape at the 10-deck Westerdam rising above the Seward pier. In the cruise industry, the Westerdam is considered a mid-sized vessel and carries a maximum of 2100 passengers. For […]
Cruises, Destinations, Mexico, North America, Travel Stories
How to Swim with Enormous Whale Sharks in Mexico (Video)
08
Feb
Feb
The idea of swimming with whale sharks made me nervous. I wanted to, a lot, but I couldn’t forget my bizarre reaction to a spinner dolphin in Costa Rica a few years ago. I was afraid I’d humiliate myself again. At the time, I’d been completely and utterly irrational. I was in the water near […]