Long before Christianity lured ancient cultures into December celebrations, there was the winter solstice, a time to mark the end of long, long nights. In order to boost church enrollment, early Christians just incorporated some of the pagan practices,...
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...
Travel & Adventure Show: Who Should Go? YOU!

Holiday decorations are put away and the new year has started. That means it’s time to plan a trip! Fortunately, the annual Travel & Adventure Show can help you find the perfect destination. Hundreds of exhibitors are waiting to...
Holiday Foods From Around The World

Holiday foods are possibly the best part of the season. Okay, family and friends are important, too…but over the years, we come to look forward to our favorite things to eat. Long after the gifts are opened and the...
Luminarias: New Mexico’s Holiday Lights…Easy to Do!

Luminarias are an important part of New Mexico’s holiday season. For over 300 years–long before it became a state–the rich Spanish/Mexican heritage included luminarias a part of the local culture. Also called “farolitos,” or little lanterns, they are worth...
Mulled Wine: The World’s “Warm-You-Up” Drink

Cold weather means warm drinks. What’s better than coming in from outside and wrapping your hands around a cup of something aromatic, ready to warm you up inside? Hello, mulled wine! Warm, spicy mulled wine makes an annual appearance...
The City at Christmas: Delight Your Inner Child

The city at Christmas…maybe the best way to capture holiday spirit. Not everyone will agree with me. Some of you prefer a cozy country setting or small town friendliness. But my vote goes to at least one day of...
Holidays Elsewhere: The Pros & Cons

What happens when you think about spending the holidays elsewhere? Do you wish you could escape to someplace warm…or different? Or do you feel guilty, because you “should” stay home, drink cheap eggnog, and find a new spot for...
Favorite Travel Magazines to Give…or Get for Yourself!

“What are your favorite travel magazines?” When you write a travel blog, people are curious to know what you read for enjoyment and inspiration. Sometimes they ask for gift recommendations for the travelers in their lives…or what they should...