Nantes, France is a city with a dual nature. A port city though inland, art works that nod to the cities working class roots, and a food scene that befits its place close to the Loire valley yet firmly in Brittany. My visit was prompted by an article in The Sunday Times, which called out how Nantes is an overlooked city.

Ile d’Oleron is good-sized island off the coast of France in the western France on the Bay of Biscay. Accessible by car, bus or ferry, the island features a network of small towns. Each has it’s own personality, but the rhythm of the island is driven by the tides, oyster harvesting and sailing harbors.

The weather has been tough this July, but a few outings made the temperature more bearable. Here’s a few ideas to keep you cool and enriched.

There a lots of ways to see Morocco, but depending on time, money and the amount one can absorb at any given time, choices need to be made. Also, availability, time of year, weather will also shape the trip.

We made Marrakech our base, planning trips to the Sahara and Essaouira from there. We also stayed in two riads, one more like a hotel and one like staying someone’s home. Both were in the Medina and gave us a slightly different take on life there.

Oaxaca, Mexico, for me, has long been associated with chef Rick Bayless. As a native Chicagoan, eating at one of his restaurants was an introduction and an appreciation of a Mexico well beyond American interpretations of regional cuisine. In early February, I had a chance to visit Oaxaca and experience first hand the rich indigenous food, art and culture that make up this unique city.

A 4 Day Stay on Coronado Island

Just 15 minutes from the airport, this area commonly known for being home to the famous Hotel De Coronado, was a quiet oasis filled with locals, slow morning walks, a treat yourself mentality and daily sunset ventures.

Motivated by airline status, I put together a quick trip to Copenhagen from New York. Here is my itinerary, recommendations and approach to putting it all together.