It stands to reason that I am a frequent flyer on several airlines. But consider my shock when the Turkish Airlines gate employee scanned my ticket and a red light came on (you know, in that nasty “something might be wrong with your ticket” buzz). After the red light came on a second time, he read the tiny monitor, marked
Famous art is right at home in Alabama
By Marilyn Jones Alabama may not be synonymous with fine art, but our museums are home to some truly world-class collections and pieces. You can appreciate their beauty or perhaps their emotional power; some offer glimpses into our history, telling us about our culture and where we came from. Whatever the purpose, you can make new discoveries with a short drive
Birmingham – Remembering the glories of a garden
Recently I needed photos of Birmingham for an article. When I searched my files I came across flower photos I had taken at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. I had never used them or written about the impressive gardens. In the 1950s James W. Morgan, city mayor at the time, led an effort to establish the gardens on a
Babylonstoren is a South African Treasure
A decade ago Karen Roos, a magazine editor and lover of South Africa’s Dutch Cape history, purchased a fruit and wine farm dating back to the late 17th century. She renamed it Babylonstoren and set about transforming it into the showplace it is today. Located near Franschhoek, it was in 1692 the land was granted to burgher Pieter
Luxury Accommodations Add to South African Experience
A hotel can stand alone as a destination anywhere in the world. While traveling throughout South Africa, I stayed at several hotels and resorts that were much more than a place to hang my hat and get a good night’s sleep. They had history, character and charm. The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa in
Jordan: As Seen by Camel
By Marilyn Jones Aliana has beautiful deep brown eyes with long eyelashes. We only met this morning — just before sunrise — in Wadi Rum, a sprawling desert in southern Jordan. Aliana is one of the camels owned by a 23-year-old Bedouin, Rashim, who says he has tended camels since he was 5. Wadi Rum Protected Area covers 280 square
21st Century Vietnam and Cambodia Revealed
By Marilyn Jones When I decided to visit Vietnam and Cambodia, I checked with my travel agent to see what was available. I decided on Exodus Travels because of their stellar reputation and their comprehensive guide to activity levels. I was immediately drawn to the Classic Vietnam & Angkor schedule and the leisurely activity level. Beginning in Hanoi and ending
What’s New for Spring Break and Summer Travel?
Like every travel writer I spend a lot of time planning my adventures. Right now I am planning a trip to Egypt in April, and a marathon 3,500-mile solo road trip in May and June. Along with my planning comes the desire to have the right “accessories” for every situation. Road Trip In addition to plenty of audiobooks to
Village on the Danube River offers excellent History Lessons
On the shores of the Danube, a blue church spire signifies the approach of Durnstein, a town with a population of less than 1,000. High above the village is another landmark, Kuenringernurg, the castle where Richard the Lionheart was held in the 12th century during the Third Crusade. I am a passenger on the AmaWaterways AmaSella and I am excited
Exploring historic Santiago, Chile
I wake to rain pelting the windows. My plans for the day are to explore the heart of Santiago and a little — or a lot — of rain isn’t going to stop me. Juggling an umbrella, camera and tote bag, I start out by exploring the quiet streets in a neighborhood just outside downtown. Many of the palatial mansions,