The Enchanted Fiji Islands – get away from the world!

The Enchanted Fiji Islands – get away from the world!

The official tagline of the nation of Fiji is “Where Happiness Lives.” On my recent debut trip to the islands, I found this to be perfectly true. Its archipelago of 333 islands — of which about 100 are inhabited — provides something that is increasingly rare in tropical island destinations: luxury combined with laid-back charm;…

Destination Review: Nice: Exploring a Celebrated French Flower Market
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Destination Review: Nice: Exploring a Celebrated French Flower Market

by Shannon Connell I sauntered through a sea of pink-centered stargazer lilies, lilac-colored hydrangeas and roses in every imaginable color. I drank in my colorful surroundings and the deep floral aroma that mingled with the warm, salty air. I couldn’t help but think that Marche aux Fleurs in Old Nice is a magical place. It’s…

Ecuador’s Captivating Colonial Mountain Cities – Quito and Cuenca

Ecuador’s Captivating Colonial Mountain Cities – Quito and Cuenca

A Two Part Series of Discovery (Stay-Tuned) My first visit to Ecuador was nearly eight years ago. My trip at that time focused on experiencing the magnificent Galapagos Islands on Ecuador’s Pacific Coast; the islands are truly an eco-paradise, easily one of the world’s greatest treasures that should be on everyone’s bucket list. But Ecuador is…

A Sun-Sational Sensory Escape on Florida’s Treasure Coast – Costa d’ Este Beach Resort

A Sun-Sational Sensory Escape on Florida’s Treasure Coast – Costa d’ Este Beach Resort

A special find awaits the weary soul in need of a restful retreat and the healing powers of the sun and sea. Travel just a few hours by car – 3 hours north of Miami and 2 hours east of Orlando – to the lovely town of Vero Beach to experience Costa d’ Este Beach Resort, singer Gloria Estefan’s latest successful venture. The boutique property is a divine detour from the crazy buzz of…

St. Simons Island Discoveries – Coastal Georgia

St. Simons Island Discoveries – Coastal Georgia

My love affair with St. Simons Island, Georgia is renewed with each visit. Living the island life is about exploration & experimentation. Here are a few delightful “Off the Beaten Path” Recommendations: Sandcastle Cafe & Grill – Local DIVE Extraordinaire for over 20 + years! You have hit the mother lode when you have opted for the breakfast buffet….

Destination Review: Port St. Joe, Florida: Scallops, Music & More
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Destination Review: Port St. Joe, Florida: Scallops, Music & More

Florida’s late summer weather can often be unpredictable; a passing storm or shower may shake up your vacation plans. But the Florida Scallop & Music Festival is a guaranteed crowd pleaser – rain or shine. A little downpour is just liquid sunshine to the folks in Gulf County in Northwest Florida. The historic coastal town…