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The Grundy House: A lovely example of the Queen Anne Architectural Style
The Bristol, Pennsylvania historic district has a variety of archetectural styles and historic buildings, many of which are in private hands and are therefore not open for public viewing. But thanks to the Grundy family, a beautifully preserved house in Bristol is open for tours, and this Victorian gem is a must see. Have a look...
Old Town Kawagoe Is A Great Day Trip Destination
Kawagoe is an historic Japanese city in Saitama Prefecture, nicknamed "Little Edo" for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings, featuring Kurazukuri warehouses, old merchant streets, and ancient temples. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo that allows you to experience some of old Edo Japan. We recently went once for lunch, and then I did a solo encore to check it out some more.
The Fall Foliage of Tateshina, Nagano and the Majestic Matsumoto Castle
If you're in Japan during the fall months, it's always a nice idea to plan an outing outside Tokyo to see the fall colors. We made a plan to do just that, and tacked on a trip to Matsumoto to see the famous castle. Well, plans change when life gets in the way, but in our case not so much!
My Glorious Migration to Costa Rica
Introducing Greg Thomas, an old friend of mine from our time at Kaiser Permanente. He was working out of rosy Pasadena, while I was in various locations in the Bay Area. Greg retired a little earlier than I did, and did what some only talk about. Moving out of the US is not a trivial decision, but Greg took the plunge and did it, and most importantly, is happy he did. As with David and Jeremy previously, I asked Greg if he would be interested in telling his story about how he decided to move to Costa Rica, and what is it like living there. He’s included a some interesting and beautiful images of life in the small town he lives in. Enjoy! --Charlie
Driving a Tour Bus Through the Alaskan Winderness
Introducing David Rehmeyer, an old friend of mine from our time at Shared Medical Systems, both in Malvern Pennsylvania and Tokyo Japan. To me, David is a modern day Sal Paradise from Kerouac’s novel On The Road. His adventures are legendary, from Pennsylvania to Japan to New Zealand, Texas and Alaska, and many points in between. He’s done numerous long distance bicycle trips, and has avidly documented his treks in his own online journal. I asked David if he would be interested in giving us a feel of what it is like to work in Alaska as a tour bus driver, his current gig, and he happily accepted. He’s included a number of pictures depicting the beauty of the area around Fairbanks. Enjoy!
Returning to Yosemite National Park Brought Back Some Nice Memories
After ten years we returned to Yosemite National Park to show my wife's brother and his wife its beauty and alure. It was a chilly weekend in November a decade ago when we brought their daughter Akiko and her boyfriend Shinya to the park. This time we brought Akiko's parents to the park to experience the magic of Yosemite for themselves.
Himeji Castle, its White Splendor Amidst the Cherry Blossoms
Himeji-jō, known as the White Heron Castle because of its distinctive white exterior, is the most visited castle in Japan. We had visited other castles in Japan before, but this one was at a different level. Not only is Himeji-jō very well preserved, but in cherry blossom season, it is absolutely spectacular.
Tō-ji, an Historic Temple Established After the Capitol Moved to Kyoto
To-ji is an important temple on the southwest side of Kyoto. It is especially pretty in cherry blossom season, and in the fall when the colors change. It's probably not a place you will visit on your first visit to Kyoto, with all the other more well known temples to see, but you will not be disappointed if you have time to visit To-ji.
Byodoin, a World Heritage Site That Is Probably Not on Your List to Visit
This spring we took a bus tour to a few beautiful locations for viewing cherry blossoms, referred to in Japan as sakura. The first stop in the tour was Byodoin, an ancient Heian temple located in the southern part of Kyoto. Most folks visiting Kyoto are not aware of Byodoin. It is a bit out of the way in Uji, and well, there are so many temples and shrines closer to the center of Kyoto that Byodoin is kind of an afterthought, if thought of at all.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls Canada vacation during the summer of 2024. Niagara Falls located at the southern end of the Niagara Gorge, is a breathtaking natural wonder that spans the border between Canada and the United States.
The Captivating Beauty, Historical Depth, and Cultural Richness of Prague
Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is often referred to as the "City of a Hundred Spires" due to its stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture. Nestled on the Vltava River, Prague boasts a rich history that dates back over a thousand years, making it a treasure trove of medieval, Renaissance, and modern history and culture.
Road Trip Europe 2024 Part 1 - Zurich, Lucerne, Como, and Milan
For this year's trip to Europe we decided to rent a car. Our route starts with Zurich, Switzerland. Next is Milan - with a quick stop at Lake Como. Then we'll stop for lunch at Verona on our way to Balzano. Next is Innsbruk, and then back to Zurich. This leg of the journey is featured in Part 2. Lastly, we'll fly to Prague; not part of the road trip per se, but probably the destination I most look forward to visiting.
Road Trip Europe 2024 Part 2 - Bolzano, Innsbruck, Zurich
This is Part Two of our road trip in Europe. Our route continues in with a stop for lunch at Verona on our way to Balzano. Next is Innsbruk, and then back to Zurich.
The Arizona Trip - Grand Canyon and Beyond
This spring we decided to visit Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park. At the same time we wanted to visit a few other cool spots in Arizona. So, our itinerary looked like these stops: Phoenix -> Sedona -> Grand Canyon -> Page's Antelope Canyon -> Flagstaff -> Scottsdale -> Phoenix. A big look around much of Arizona gave us a great feel for what desert living is like. And people are so nice in Arizona! California, take notice!
The Mountains are Imposing at Glacier National Park
The National Park Service describes Glacier National Park as "a showcase of melting glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and spectacular lakes." We were sold! In the fall of 2023 we explored Glacier National Park, one of America's renouned public lands in the heart of Montana.
Nagoya has More to Offer Than I Expected
This past fall we signed up for a bus and ferry tour of Shodo Island and Shimanami Kaido, which you can read about here. To start the tour we had to take the Shinkansen to Nagoya. So, at the end of the tour, we decided to stay an extra couple of days in Nagoya to see the sights. I had always wanted to see Nagoya Castle, so this was my opportunity!
First time in Osaka? Here are some places to check out.
Back in the early 1990's we visited Osaka on our way to Kobe. Frankly I remember very little about that trip. Then in 2023 we had a chance to stop in at Osaka for a couple of days, and we made the most of it. I've highlighted some major sights to see if you are planning to spend a day or two in this interesting city.
Visiting Tokyo for the First Time? Here Are Some Popular Places to Visit
Tokyo is an eclectic city of contrasts - ultra modern skyscrapers, residential bedroom towns, and ancient temples and shrines. In this guide I will give you some ideas for things to do while visiting Tokyo. The places mentioned here are not necessarily in any particular order.
Pent Up Demand to Visit Rome Almost Overwhelming
The last time I visited Rome I was taking a summer break from college, and had a full beard. Almost fifty years later, it seems like it was just as I left it. Hope you like crowds! It was like everyone in the world who was waiting out COVID was with us.
Firenze for the First Time was Well Worth the Wait
Florence, or if you are Italian, Firenze was a city that I had wanted to visit for a long time. I missed it on my very first trip to Italy in 1982, and it took quite a long time for me to finally make the trip to Italy again.
The Stylish Heart of Austria, Vienna
Our first stop in our Europe tour was Vienna, Austria. We chose Vienna primarily because of its musical history, particularly the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. I was happy to return to Vienna after all these years, as it is not that far from Burganland, which is my mother's ancestral home.
Kyoto will Always be the Heart and Soul of Japan
Kyoto is the heart and soul of Japan. It's ancient temples and shrines are a testament to the history of Japan, and even its future. Kyoto is a modern city with many contemporary buildings, and even its own tower. But at is core are many of the Japan's most well known and internationally recognized UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Toyoko, Elaine and I visited Kyoto for a three day stay. Here's what we saw.
The Beautiful Port City of Victoria
Canada is blessed with a number of beautiful provincial capitals, but none are prettier than Victoria, British Columbia.
Japan to Allow Tourists Starting June 10
Japan is slowly opening up to the world. There are new rules that enable tourists to visit, with limitations. Is this the start of a wider opening of the country to tourists?
Japan, Finally
Well, finally a breakthrough! The travel ban was lifted, and we were able to return to Japan again! Sure, testing required, and a tedius airport experience upon arrival at Narita.
California Coast #3 - Monterey and Carmel
My sister Elaine came to visit, and we took a drive down the coast to the Monterey peninsula. Wandering the Carmel streets, popping into art gallaries and shops was a pleasure despite the rainy weather.
A Delightful Week in Waikiki
It's always a pleasure to visit the beautiful island of Oahu. Swimming, snorkeling, and delicious dinners awaited us.
California Coast #2 - I Have Found It in Eureka!
A long but delightful drive up the California coast to the beautiful bay city of Eureka was both educational and relaxing! The fascinating history of the area goes way back beyond the Gold Rush years.
California Coast #1 - Fort Bragg is Worth Bragging About
A not very well known destination on the northern California coast is an old military town that offers beautiful ocean views and rustic woodlands.