Exploring WWII ruins, wandering cities, diving shipwrecks, visiting pristine beaches and snorkeling reefs in the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu on the trip, Pacifying the Pacific. Solomon Islands Leaving Papua New Guinea, I was on a Air Niugini flight to Honiara, the capital of the Solomon Islands. The landing was so hard we bounced a bit. … Continue reading Solomon Islands and Vanuatu
A review of the Excelsior Hotel Gallia in Milan, Italy the trip Horn of Africa Tour. Highlights Opulent rooms and luxury branded decor Central location next to the train station and business district. Fine cuisine and elegant bars. Unique high-end spa facilities. Background The Excelsior Hotel Gallia officially opened its doors in February 1932 when … Continue reading Experience: Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Milan, Italy
A week in Papua New Guinea exploring Lae and Port Moresby on the trip Pacifying the Pacific. I really didn’t know what to expect on visiting the mysterious Papua New Guinea. Media portrays it as a lawless and dangerous country with headlines of murder, rape, and unrest but the media often doesn’t tell the whole … Continue reading Papua New Guinea
An itinerary of New Zealand in 10 days on the trip, Pacifying the Pacific. New Zealand has a reputation for having some of the most scenic landscapes in the world. It is also a great family destination and a perfect chance for me to share the experience with some loved ones. After careful research and … Continue reading New Zealand in 10 Days
A review of the Icelandair Hotel Herad in Egilsstadir, Iceland the trip Circling Iceland. Highlights Modern property and guest rooms. Delicious East-Icelandic cuisine. High tea served daily. New conference facilities. Background The Icelandair Hotel chain is considered the premiere hotel group in Iceland. There are nine locations throughout the island and another on the way … Continue reading Experience: Icelandair Hotel Herad, Egilsstadir, Iceland
A review of the Kvosin Downtown Hotel in Reykjavik, Iceland the trip Circling Iceland. Highlights Central location in Reykjavik. Playful and humorous atmosphere. Apartment style rooms. Tasty local cafe attached. Background Kvosin Downtown Hotel was recently opened in 2013 after undergoing massive renovations tailored to fit the modern traveler. The building itself dates back to … Continue reading Experience: Kvosin Downtown Hotel, Reykjavik, Iceland
A review of the CenterHotel Thingholt in Reykjavik, Iceland the trip Circling Iceland. Highlights Located in the heart of Reykjavik. Modern and smart rooms and suites. Locally inspired fine dining. Relaxing and serene spa. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Background CenterHotel Thingholt is part of a group of six hotels run by the local Oliversson family. … Continue reading Experience: CenterHotel Thingholt, Reykjavik, Iceland
On my recent trip through Western Africa, by far the most challenging aspect of the travel was dealing with the bureaucracy of each nation’s immigration and trying to secure a visa for onward travel. Some of the hardest countries to get visas from including Angola, Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Democratic Republic of Congo are located … Continue reading 15 Tips for Getting Visas in Africa
A review of the Hotel Bláfell in Breiðdalsvík, Iceland the trip Circling Iceland. Highlights Service oriented family run hotel. Family friendly atmosphere. Beautiful views of mountains and bay. Relaxing sauna. Background Hotel Bláfell is a quaint little boutique hotel along the Eastern coast of Iceland. Fridrik Arnason, Hildur Hafsteinsdottir and their family still run the … Continue reading Experience: Hotel Bláfell, Breiðdalsvík, Iceland
A review of the Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa in San Anton, Malta the trip A Long Malta Weekend. Highlights Elegant rooms and interiors. One of the country’s best spa facilities. Gorgeous outdoor pool area. Central location on the island close to the President’s Palace and botanical gardens. Wide variety of fine and casual dining. … Continue reading Experience: Corinthia Palace Hotel & Spa, Malta