Snow-capped Summer in Chamonix, France
Face to Face with Mont Blanc, Chamonix, France / You don’t have to be an intrepid mountaineer to get up close and personal with majestic Mont Blanc in Chamonix. You can do as we did, which was to take the first cable car up and be gratified instantly. We stood on the chilly observation deck, gawking at the looming mountain, not believing it could be so cold up here, while at the base the July temps were soaring into the high 70s. Suddenly, what could...
Cumbria. Many Lakes. One Star.
The Lake District may be England's best kept secret. The Lake District, England / Dungeon Ghyll, Crinkle Crags and Harrison Stickle. No, these aren’t characters from a Harry Potter novel, they are the illustrious names for ravines and peaks in the majestic Lake District of England. Where, if you are American, you won’t see a fellow countryman for days and wonder why this place has seemingly escaped our radar. It is a mere four hour drive from London, which by US standards, is a typical...
Villa Dubrovnik. Beyond the Wall of the Old City.
Villa Dubrovnik, Croatia / The entrance to Villa Dubrovnik is completely unmemorable. You may even think you have arrived at the wrong place, as there is no building per se. What you see is an L-shaped structure (imagine a periscope that has popped up from the water) with a wood-paneled door and a small button. Press it, enter, and you are swiftly transported, James Bond-style, many levels below to the lobby of Villa Dubrovnik. The elevator doors open and the full expanse of the Adriatic Sea...