Copenhagen is giving new meaning to the idea of dining at the source, and the Meatpacking District is experiencing an interesting transformation: from butcher shop to upscale restaurant venue. This neighborhood dates back to the 1880s and was known for one of the highest concentrations of butchers in Europe. But now, the white coats and cattle stables have been replaced with art galleries, ... Read Full Article
Copenhagen’s Torvehallern: the World’s Best Covered Market
Torvehallern – the covered market that opened in Copenhagen in September 2011 – hasn’t been declared the world’s best covered market (yet), but it certainly has the potential. During my first few hours wandering the historic streets of Copenhagen, I learned something about the Danes: they love superlatives. The Danish are proud to have Europe’s longest bridge (Øresund Bridge) and the ... Read Full Article
5 Spots in Dublin for a Great Pint of Guinness
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, people around the world have raised a pint of Guinness, the Irish stout that has been brewed in Dublin since 1759. People who have fallen in love with Guinness often comment that a pint poured anywhere else isn’t the same as one poured in Dublin. While this is true, not all pints in Dublin are equal either. Here are 5 spots for a great pint of Guinness in Dublin on ... Read Full Article
Classic Sights in Berlin
Berlin is an exhilarating city full of art, music, café culture, and nightlife. While the German capital has a palpable creative energy today, there is also plenty of history worth exploring. Before wandering to buzzing neighborhoods like Kreuzberg or Friedrichshain, get your bearings by visiting some of Berlin’s most classic sights. Not only are these sights fascinating from a historical ... Read Full Article
Hand-Picking Olives in Greece
On a sunny October day in the southwest Peloponnese, about 3 hours outside Athens, countless electric green olives were weighing down branches, signaling that it was time for an annual ritual: hand-picking olives in Greece. I was joining the workers for my first time olive-picking experience. I rolled up my sleeves and waited for instructions to participate in this tradition. In Costa Navarino ... Read Full Article
Where to Eat and Drink in Venice
It is always tricky to know where to eat in Venice. While Italy has a wonderful culinary reputation, Venice is generally not known for fine restaurants. In my Venice travels, I've found the best strategy is to walk away from the crowds and get into out of the way neighborhoods where you will find authentic Venetian eateries. Snag a table with the locals and you will be virtually assured of finding ... Read Full Article
Strolling through the Market in Kalamata, Greece
My October trip to Greece coincided perfectly with the Kalamata harvest season. Olive trees were ripe with fruit, and over several weeks, we observed great quantities of olives being handpicked and brought to the mill to produce some of the world’s best olive oil. This lovely time of year was ideal for a getaway focused on Greek culinary pleasures. The first few days of my trip were filled with ... Read Full Article
Top Sites in Dubrovnik
The ancient walled city of Dubrovnik is small in size but makes a big impact. Some travelers choose to breeze in and out in a short afternoon (which is possible), but I spent a delightful springtime week here visiting its memorable sights while also exploring hidden alleyways, and climbing every set of stairs I could find. I was then drawn back each night, retracing my footsteps, to see just how ... Read Full Article
Island Hopping in Croatia
My island hopping along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast began in the port town of Split. I had arrived thinking I would stay for just a day or two and then make my way to the islands, but something unexpected happened: I fell for Croatia before even setting foot on one of its stunning islands. I got to the islands eventually, and was glad I did. But beforehand I slowed down and took the time to ... Read Full Article
Where to Stay in Dublin – Editor’s Picks
Every traveler has different criteria for where to stay in Dublin. For some people a central location is most important, while others prefer to be off the beaten path. Some want a simple, cozy place to sleep while others are looking for the best amenities and 24-hour room service. Whatever kind of accommodation you’re looking for in Dublin, hotels will all have one thing in common: Irish ... Read Full Article