Meteora, Greece: Of course, you go to see the magnificent monasteries built on the tops of stone pillars. A sight you’ll never forget. And after–or in between–those tours? There’s still plenty to do in this area that the Eastern...
Meteora: Monasteries in the Mystical “Stone Forest” of Greece
Meteora, Greece: As soon as I learned about it, I had to go. Monasteries built on the tops of stone peaks? The tallest at 2,011 feet (613 meters)? Over 700 years ago? After spending three weeks in Athens and...
15 Travel Bloggers to Follow
Yes, TravelSmart Woman wants you to find other travel bloggers to follow. Just like in the movie “Miracle on 34th Street,” when Kris Kringle tells Macy’s shoppers where to find the perfect gift, I’m going to suggest some bloggers...
5 Reasons to Go to Cuba…Make 2020 Your Year!
“Don’t even try to understand Cuba,” advised our group leader, Liliana Rhoades, who was born in Cuba. “Changes are a response to what is happening. Right now.” Cuba is clearly always on the verge of something else that needs...
The “Miracle Grave” in Havana at Colón Cemetery
When I decided I must visit the Colón Cemetery (Cementerio de Cristóbal Colón ) during my Cuba trip, I had no idea there was a “miracle grave” in Havana. I was more focused on the fact that it’s huge–over...
An American in Cuba: Restrictions, But Worth It! (Don’t Delay…)
I’ll say it upfront: Being an American in Cuba is frustrating. There’s so much to see, so much to learn, so much to understand. You get to watch visitors from other countries explore as they like, while you’re constrained...
TravelSmart Woman’s Best Posts of 2019: Your Favorites!
Here we are, at the end of the year…and about to start a new decade. Before we leap into 2020, I’d like to pause and thank you for your support. There are thousands of you now who take time...
Fun–and Funny–Holiday Traditions Around the World
Holiday traditions around the world make me smile. After all, every country and culture does something that, well, we wonder how they could ever have become a real thing. And that’s the beauty of them. You already know the...
Turning Kids into Travelers
How exactly can we go about turning our kids into travelers? We’ve seen those children on our own journeys: curious and cheerful. Interested in more than the next souvenir shop. Willing to eat more than a Big Mac. Understanding...
Greek Vegetables: Forget That Green Bean Casserole!
Once you’ve had Greek vegetables, you realize how important they are to a meal. Not a side dish or a last-minute addition to a menu. No, they steal the show. Once you taste them, you’ll want to know how...