Chicago has long carried the label of being second to New York - hence the name Second City. But just as the comedy club has spawned first-rate comedians, from Stephen Colbert to Tina Fey, the city is brimming with first rate attractions. I had the opportunity to experience many of the great Chicago people, places and food highlights raved about by travelers and … [Read more...]
Palm Springs Pizzazz
Bright blue sky, lacy, swaying palm trees against a beige desert background - Palm Springs looks like the bright crayon drawing of a child or the photo shopped work of a photographer. This desert oasis, less than two hour drive from Los Angeles, has long been a place for sun seekers and golfers; but now you can add architecture lovers and culture mavens. For Palm … [Read more...]
Rediscovering Egypt in 2014, Post the Revolution
“Egypt? You’re kidding” “Isn’t it dangerous?” “You had better cover your head.” These were the reactions I got when I told people I was going to Egypt. I was apprehensive too, when I got the invite to join a group of scribblers. But I had been there before, six years ago, and I had always wanted to return. Why? Was it the gigantic statues of Pharaohs looming over the land … [Read more...]
Roamancing New Orleans with Jacqueline Swartz: Beyond the French Quarter
This is Part II of my 2-Part Series on Roamancing New Orleans. Click here to read Part I: Roamancing the New Orleans French Quarter. I could have wandered around the French Quarter for days, but I decided to widen my vistas by taking the new hop on hop off red bus. This brought me to Magazine Street, blocks and blocks of boutiques and cafes. It’s a few … [Read more...]
Roamancing New Orleans with Jacqueline Swartz: The French Quarter
It’s not just Carnival and Dixieland Jazz, although there are reminders of both everywhere you turn. In New Orleans there are bands on the street, in the park, and in so many clubs. Bars seem to be everywhere. Mardi Gras is perhaps the most important time of the year, and there are boutiques selling nothing but masks. But a kind of masquerade or pose is everywhere, and it’s … [Read more...]
