Category Archives: Uncategorized

As a kid, Taiwan just seemed the “other” China, an island existing in the shadow of monolithic Red China, a sort of big, comfy refuge for Chiang Kai-shek and his cronies, where they could enjoy all the art and goodies … Continue reading →

BATHROOMS AND BUDDIES Or: How to keep the peace and friendship on the road 1. Determine who needs the most time in the morning. Some people jump out of bed, can dress, pack, workout, eat breakfast (not necessarily in this … Continue reading →

At least once during a lifetime, the facilities should include marble countertops, designer inspired bowls and shower, and Bulgari soaps and lotions. The butler, champagne, and private party invitations weren’t bad either. But what can compare with the choice of … Continue reading →

It is called Eastern Europe, but Romania is the geographical center of Europe. Or so Andrei, our Romanian guide, claimed. Without a handy world atlas to pull out of my bag, there was no point in disagreeing. Besides, in modern … Continue reading →

When East meets West, cultural combinations are always interesting and sometimes amusing. Bulgaria is both where the Romans built great fortress cities, and later the Ottoman Empire ruled. During an April 2009 trip through Bulgaria, I should have noted my … Continue reading →

Communal commodes in cities is a sensitive subject with a number of considerations. Shrubbery is for decoration only and accessible walls are not acceptable. Neither Harrod’s nor Holiday Inns appreciate drop-in visitors. As more of us roam the world’s great … Continue reading →

The sands west of the Hadramat wadi, Yemen’s central desert region, seem to extend forever. It is easy to imagine being on an old movie set for Lawrence of Arabia. Except movie sets have porta-potties hidden away from the cameras. … Continue reading →

The problem in Iran is the headscarf.  It has to stay glued to your head from the moment you leave your hotel room (I had chambermaids scolding me if I was still putting it on walking to the elevator) until … Continue reading →

Rating scales are really useful.  We use them to decide where to stay, what to eat, which sights to see.  On a recent trip to China, ratings were used to decide whether or not to “go”.  Our group quickly determined … Continue reading →

Everybody wants to travel. Well, almost everybody.  At least somewhere, if only to grandma’s house.  Everybody agrees the getting there is often a hassle, with delays, cancellations, crowds.  The going while there is also often a hassle.  Especially for women.   … Continue reading →