Unlike the typical Cuban getaway – in mid-winter complete with package tour and all you can eat buffet, I decided to see Cuba in reverse. That is, in full early July heat and staying at the opposite of a resort – at a Cuban home complete with grandma, mum, adult kids and babies – out in the Havana suburbs. It proved to be unforgettable “auténtica experiencia” – and one I would not willingly exchange for the pre-packaged kind. 

Panama is derived from an old Indian word meaning “lots of fish and butterflies.” It has one of the world’s most spectacular ecosystems and jungles but less than an hour away, there is the vibrant urban life in Panama City.

OK, so you may not be an Olympic gold medalist, but in Lake Placid, you can have a taste of what it would be like. And it is one exhilarating way to start a weekend of Adirondack adventures.

The temperature was just below zero as a light snow fell and the city was lit up like a Christmas tree. I took my son for hot chocolate in the grand square by the royal palace and he said, “Dad, I think Norway is a real special place”. That pretty well says it all.

Anticipation and unease gave way to surprise as Israel revealed itself beyond headlines. From Tel Aviv’s shimmering coast to ancient port cities, mountain retreats, and moments of human connection, this journey uncovers a country defined not by conflict alone, but by beauty, coexistence, and unforgettable depth.

The sun, the fun, the beaches, the people, the food, and the amenities. It really doesn’t get any better for a family vacation. Our children are between 10 and 13 so exploring and doing different things is a big part of what we look for when we go on vacation. Our most recent trip took us to Florida’s beautiful St. Pete’s/ Clearwater.

As we traveled north, I felt myself moving deeper into Israel, both physically and emotionally. With time to adjust, my first impressions sharpened, revealing a depth to traveling here that few other destinations can match.

Colorado is a breathtakingly beautiful state. With 300 days of annual sunshine, the world-famous Rocky Mountains, record snowfalls and great vacation values offered year round, Colorado is a very appealing destination.

While best known to most Canadians as a winter vacation spot and home to the 1980 Olympic Winter Games, Lake Placid is truly a four-season destination. For sports enthusiasts (extreme or otherwise), food and wine connoisseurs, shoppers and antique hunters alike, the village of Lake Placid and surrounding area has something for everyone.

When my brother-in-law announced his intention to wed in Cuba, my wife Trine literally jumped for joy. She had seriously considered holding our wedding party on a beach in the Caribbean, so she could get hitched while barefoot in the sand. I was happy too – I like a beach vacation as much as the next guy, but never having been to anything like this, I had no clue about the customs.

Got the winter blues or a little cabin fever? Well here’s the cure: New York City.

“Ithaca: 10 square miles surrounded by reality.” This summer, when you and your family need an escape from reality, consider a rejuvenating visit to Ithaca, NY. You’ll be glad you made the trek.