Understated opulence. Is there such a thing? Seems like a contradictory statement, right? But, as we drove up and parked curbside at the Richardson-Bates House Museum, in Oswego, New York, this was my very first thought. It stood silently at the corner, like a sentinel, guarding the past, protecting the treasures that lay within. The Tuscan Villa, designed and built … [Read more...]
Visit Pass-a-Grille, Florida for Laid Back Fun and Kitsch
Pass-a-Grille, Florida is on the southernmost tip of St. Pete’s Beach, outside of Tampa. A visit there is a venture back in time to the era of Pez containers, pink flamingos, and kitschy surfboards. It’s almost like being in a time capsule of old Florida nostalgia. This tiny piece of Paradise makes a charming get-a-way for those wishing to disappear, a romantic nook for … [Read more...]
Stay at Casa Marina: Jacksonville, Florida’s Grand Lady
From the beach, she appeared ethereal, a vision from the past, perhaps some would say otherworldly. I approached slowly, taking in the sight. The Casa Marina, on Jacksonville Beach, had weathered many storms, the most visible, a scar at the top, on the outdoor patio, where she'd been struck by lightning. I walked into the foyer, opening heavy wood doors to … [Read more...]
Soak in the Rich History of ROME, GEORGIA
I dare you to find another town the size and population of Rome, Georgia with such a storied past and a solid impetus for the future. Rome, with its 36,000 lucky residents, is ideally located between Birmingham, Atlanta, and Chattanooga. Since Georgia is one of the original thirteen colonies, Rome's past runs deep, but with construction underway right now, Rome is poised to … [Read more...]
Bask in St. Simons Island’s Southern Tranquility
The stress of daily life was already starting to melt away as I crossed the Sidney Lanier Bridge, Georgia’s tallest cable-stayed suspension bridge heading to St. Simons Island. It literally felt like crossing the bridge of time- to an island filled with beauty, charm, and fascinating history! More than 400 years ago, Spanish explorers landed on the barrier island shores in … [Read more...]
