It seems like a lot of people are thinking about moving to Italy from the U.S. these days. I did it several years ago and it was a magical experience. I’ve had friends ask me what it was like moving to Italy as an American and it certainly requires a lot of patience. Families may be curious about moving to Italy with children. We moved to Milan when my children were 7 and 9 years…

If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta, get ready for an unforgettable adventure! This beautiful coastal town on Mexico’s Pacific coast is known for its authentic charm, stunning beaches, and exciting activities. Puerto Vallarta safety is a top concern but you should be fine if you’re smart and aware. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or a relaxing day by the pool, Puerto Vallarta offers something for every type of traveler. From ziplining through…

I recently read an article in Joanna Gaines’ Magnolia Journal, “Nurtured for Generations,” about the legacies of grandmothers who cooked, and the home chefs – and the family food culture – they spawned. I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately, as I grew up in one of these families, and recently lost my mother who held so many recipes, cooking tips, and family food memories. I fear that so many of those treasures are…

If wine tasting was an Olympic sport, I’d win gold. Seriously. I have this sport down to a science. I’ve done a number of wine tasting trips from Napa to Italy and I’ve learned a few things along the way. The key is having a plan and pacing yourself. Whether you’re new to wine tasting or an experienced oenophile, here are 10 tips to get the most out of your trip and really learn how…

Last fall, I convinced my husband that he really needed to experience all of the beauty that Umbria, the lush, scenic region that borders Tuscany,  had to offer — including the picturesque rolling vineyards and incredible wine tasting experiences. I had traveled throughout the region when we lived in Italy, but he had never seen the true Italian countryside. So we set off to tour a few wineries in the region and received the VIP…

Just like fashion, I’m prone to jumping on the trend of the moment. I followed the Paleo diet for the past couple of years because it lets me bacon at every meal. But the more attention I paid to my daughter’s vegan diet, and then reading about how it changed Bill Clinton’s and James Cameron’s lives, I decided to give it a try. Not to mention having the bejesus scared out of me by watching…

Boy how my packing has changed since those COVID days! I used to travel so much that I kept a “go bag” of my essentials that never changed. I just threw it in my suitcase each time I packed. I had a minimal travel medical kit. But getting (very) sick overseas has changed the way I pack now. My new travel packing list includes some just-in-case and must-haves, you know, just in case I need…

The coastal city of Oceanside, California is one of the best hidden gems you’ll find in the Golden State. This seaside village — which is located about 38 miles north of San Diego and 83 miles south of Los Angeles — is a throwback to beach towns of yesteryear that has managed to maintain its authenticity and charm. The Oceanside pier, Oceanside Beach, and these North County Beaches are the perfect vacation spot. If you’re…

Sonoma County, California is on the radar of every oenophile, but let’s be honest, sometimes it’s great to experience the region without so much of a focus on wine. I love everything California and spent a few days in downtown Healdsburg and discovered there are some great activities that don’t necessarily involve day drinking. Walking and Biking Tours in Healdsburg, CA Wine Country Walking Tours leads guided walks throughout downtown Healdsburg that will take you…

Nashville is known for two things – country music and barbecue. I was a big country music fan when I lived in Texas (it would have been quite the travesty if I had not been – there’s two things Texans are serious about, their barbecue and their country music). I digress…. So when I visit Nashville, I’m always on the lookout for something to do that doesn’t involve country music. The city is really underrated…