Ever since I was a child dreaming of international travel, the Scottish Highlands ranked high on my to-visit list. I had high expectations when my plane first touched down at Glasgow International Airport last spring, Continue reading
Category Archives: Europe
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Western Scotland’s Dunstaffnage Castle
I can’t think of anything more quintessentially Scottish than driving through the Highlands, exploring historic castles and charming towns overlooking scenic lochs. As an American, such were the images I had of Scotland prior to visiting – and I can confidently say reality did not disappoint! One of Continue reading
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One Day in Brussels: The Epicenter of the European Union
When it comes to selecting urban European destinations, Brussels is often overlooked by its more famous neighbors – Amsterdam and Paris – or added to an itinerary as an afterthought. And, I’ll confess, I didn’t know what to expect Continue reading
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Oban, Scotland: a Charming Waterfront Town
Nestled on the western coast of southern Scotland, the seaside town of Oban bustles with traveler-friendly entertainment and spectacular scenery. From its pedestrian-friendly downtown to picturesque islands to the array of nearby castles and other historical sites Continue reading
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Cologne Cathedral and the City Along the Rhine
By the time my family and I departed the hotel to visit Cologne Cathedral, the northwestern German city had already left a sour taste in our mouths. As seasoned travelers, Kevin and I have experienced a number of unpleasant encounters while on the road, from getting ripped off at a Continue reading
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Conic Hill and Loch Lomond National Park
In the popular American imagination, Scotland is a country of castles, the Loch Ness Monster, and Macbeth. And after visiting, I understand why the nation’s many myths intrigue travelers. Edinburgh, a well-preserved medieval city featuring Continue reading
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Skogafoss: Iceland’s Must-See Waterfall
If there’s ever such a thing as a waterfall nerd, I’d be it. Actually, come to think of it, I think “waterfall groupie” is a real community; and if it’s not, it should be. I will drive an inordinate distance simply to see a spectacular waterfall and tackle a hike slightly more challenging than my Continue reading
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Berlin’s Gendenkstatte Berliner Mauer
For nearly thirty long years, a cement wall divided the central European capital of Berlin, Germany. The Eastern part of the city fell under the control of the Soviet Union, while the Western side enjoyed a democracy protected by Continue reading
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Dumbarton Castle: An Unforgettable Day Trip from Glasgow
Dumbarton Castle, a former military bastion less than an hour’s drive from Glasgow, Scotland, is a dream destination for history nerds everywhere. Situated on a volcanic rock overlooking the River Clyde, Continue reading
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Amsterdam’s Koninklijk Paleis
Quick: does the Netherlands have a royal family? If so, do they exercise any real power? Do the royals live in Amsterdam, the nation’s capital city, or in the Hague, where the Dutch democratically-elected legislature meets to discuss issues of national importance? Continue reading
