Nobody does Christmas like the Germans. Perhaps it’s because they came up with the Christmas market idea in the Middle Ages and have had plenty of time to perfect the tradition. The Nuremberg Christmas Market, considered one of the best in Germany, dates back to the early 1600s. There are actually three distinct holiday markets […]
Festivals and Holidays
A Guide to the Cologne Christmas Market
When I was looking for the best Christmas markets in Germany, Cologne jumped out at me. The city hosts a holiday extravaganza with a whopping seven markets! That’s right, there are SEVEN distinct holiday markets for you to enjoy. If this place doesn’t put you in a festive mood, nothing will. I visited all the […]
Hillwood Estate, One of DC’s Best Hidden Gems
I’ve visited many fine European palaces, and Hillwood Estate in Washington, DC, can compete with just about any of them. Hillwood was owned by Marjorie Merriweather Post, one of the richest women in America during her lifetime. She was the sole heir to the Post Cereal Company, which she later turned into General Foods. Marjorie […]
15 Fun Things to Do in Riga, Latvia this Spring
Spring in Riga can feel a bit elusive. Winter starts in November and by the time March rolls around, it can be hard to remember that there are in fact other seasons throughout the year. Life slowly returns in April, when people once again venture outside and buds appear on the trees. Then after a […]
Celebrating Christmas in Taipei, Taiwan
I have a little secret to share: While I continue to report on locales across Latvia and Europe, for the past few months those dispatches have been sent from the tropical island of Taiwan. Technology is amazing, no? Although I missed Riga terribly at first, Taipei has charmed me with its fascinating mix of cultures […]