Everywhere Travel

Travel-velocity slow to stop

2011-03-05T13:58:00.000-08:00

Travel is tough when the view looks like this. For me actually it isn't the rain that keeps me home but the city view. I love my San Francisco view plain and simple. It makes it difficult for me to leave. Crazy? Maybe.

I certainly have friends who can't wait to get away to somewhere warm and dry by the time February and March arrive. They either live in the snow and are tired of shoveling the white stuff and driving through it, or they live in the northern wet and muddy regions. However for me, I can't complain because for the most part our weather in San Francisco is mild compared to places like Seattle or Boston.

So, I think I will sit here and enjoy this passing storm, not complain when I have to put on a rain slicker to take the dog out for a walk, and contemplate my return to Japan. I am due for an Asia adventure and it has been quite a few years since a flight took me in that direction. So far three good reasons: Japanese friends are having babies, I'm interested in experiencing Vietnam, and I would like to go back to Bali again.

Do these Creative People travel?

2011-02-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

These detailed sculptures made from household items are hilarious. The way they were photographed helps too. Now my question is: does travel spark creativity like this or are they already creative and naturally came up with these great images?

Lions and Tigers Oh My!

2011-01-29T14:37:00.000-08:00

Falling back in love with San Francisco, I have been exploring my city by foot and by neighborhood. Recently I went to the re-opened and completely renovated California Academy of Sciences.

This science hall could be an entire day if you want or a healthy four hours. They have exhibits like this one, with incredible life-like lions and tigers. If you stay longer, I suggest adding a visit to the Planetarium to rest your feet while you enjoy the view.

Ritual Roasters One Cup at a Time - Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T08:09:00.000-08:00

Oxbow Public Market in Napa helps fill the void

2011-01-22T10:58:00.000-08:00

Day trips from San Francisco. Why leave this great city and head north? On a sunny day it would be a tough call but unless you left really early and plan to stay in Tahoe to ski, my favorite incentive to head north across the Golden Gate Bridge would have to be to check out Napa. Downtown Napa around the waterfront has been getting a much needed face-lift since COPIA closed.

COPIA was wonderful and I will miss Julia's Kitchen as well as the good intentions of this wine, food and arts center. However what is a great surprise and treat is my discovery of the Oxbow Public Market across the parking lot.

Fresh Oysters at Hog Island

This marketplace reminded me a little of the San Francisco Ferry Building Marketplace. The vendors are all local and focused closely on good quality products. They compliment each other and include: Ritual Coffee Roaster, Fatted Calf, C Casa Taqueria, Three Twins Ice Cream, Five Dot Ranch, Hog Island Oyster Co. to name just some of the great food choices.

Best Oysters Rockefeller!

Besides the fresh oysters, we also had a homemade hot dog that was amazing at Five Dot Ranch. They asked our feedback and I was happy to describe how the flavor was perfection and we'd be back for sure. What was delicious but I could have eaten more was the duck taco from C Casa Taqueria. I think next time I will get a whole or half duck to take home too. They looks divine on the rotisserie!

We definitely plan to return for more and maybe get in a little kayak down the Napa River when the temperatures warm up.

Uniquely Japanese New Year

2010-12-28T08:08:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Mainichi Daily

These are "shimekazari" -- traditional New Year's decorations made with sacred Shinto rope of rice straw and other ornaments -- in the shape of samurai topknots.

When we lived in Japan you could find versions of these mounted on the sides of buildings and on someone's front door. I will never forget seeing the side of the Meiji-ya Grocery Store building in Hiroo. Hiroo is a neighborhood filled with embassies and western families. The Meiji-ya had both western Christmas decorations mixed in with the Japanese.

I love how uniquely Japanese these New Year's decorations are in their symbols. Each section is specific in how it relates to the new year, prosperity, good health et al.

What is a little sad is that the skill and knowledge on how to make something like this, is fading within the country.

Akemashite omedetou gozaimasu
Otoshi o yoroshiku onegaishimasu

あけましておめでとうございます

Giving Fearlessly: Cleo and the Song of the Sea

2010-12-14T08:56:00.000-08:00

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Giving Fearlessly: Cleo and the Song of the Sea

We love taking our dog to the beach. On the edge of town, where the hang gliders soar off of wind swept cliffs, is a wonderful stretch of beach that allows off-leash play for dogs. Our big German Shepherd-Siberian Husky girl loves chasing shore birds and having loads of space to stretch her legs while running across the cool wet sand.

One afternoon, during a rare heat wave, the three of us were enjoying the quiet empty beach. The temperature was mild, which is rare because the cold Pacific Ocean temperatures ensure the need for even a light windbreaker on the sunniest of days. We walked for an hour in almost humid conditions. The warm mist and low tide encouraged my imagination to create a stranded pirate ship just past the breakers.

We didn't see anyone, only a few sand dollars and few birds but I did capture some unusual photos. This photograph above highlights the special solitude of our beach walk that day and it is a beautiful reminder of the unique relationship between man and dog.

I've read that dogs make us human, and this photo of quiet companionship seems to support that theory. My husband didn't realize that I had captured this wonderful moment. He was enjoying the walk with our dog too much to pay that much attention to what images I was snapping my lens at. When we got home and I saw this amazing moment captured, I knew it would have to become a gift.

A few months later, after I turned this photo into a canvas, it was wrapped and under our Christmas tree. To my husband's surprise and delight, it became one of the best gifts I've ever given him. He has it hanging today near his desk as a reminder of how fortunate we are to live where we do and to have found such a wonderful rescue dog at the SPCA.
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Another side to San Francisco

2010-12-11T17:44:00.000-08:00

Recycling that is often condemned but rarely seen in daylight

Here is one side of the green movement in San Francisco that you don't see very often, at least not in daylight. Residential neighborhoods regularly get men and women walking the streets and plucking cans and bottles from public and private trash cans. They carry their bags this way or if part of a larger crew, they will covertly meet up with a truck parked or idling further down the street.

Traveling with Dogs - Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-08T07:26:00.000-08:00

Canine Cargo or Puppy Passenger?

Winter City Rainbow

2010-12-03T12:27:00.000-08:00

Family Poetry: Honoring Loretta

2010-11-30T15:23:00.000-08:00

My amazing grandmother

My grandmother died exactly 35 years ago today. I think of her often and wish we had time together now. She had such stories to tell. Her travels to Asia in the 1920s are only documented by a few photos.

As a young girl I recognized and appreciated her spirit of adventure and independence. She knew how to live in the moment and create her home wherever she lived. Through her I learned to create a feeling of home anywhere I set my shoes.

My great-aunt Molly wrote the following poem honoring her older sister, my grandmother.

We drove to the marina and parked

On a strange, a dream like day.

The sky was a breath-taking blue,

And a light breeze rippled the bay.

Such beauty pierces the heart,

And we had nothing to say -

For Loretta loved the song of the sea,

And Loretta died today.

Japanese Television: Cooking WIth Dog

2010-11-16T12:48:00.000-08:00

This YouTube video is what I love about Japan and Japanese television. Talking helpful Poodle? Check. Detailed instructional show with a great name? Check!

This video for Ebi Fry 海老フライ reminds me how I miss Japanese television and the delicious prepared foods I could buy at the Peacock or Seifu grocery stores.

Amazing Race Still Amazes!

2010-11-14T12:33:00.000-08:00

I love the Amazing Race Season 17. From the start it is easy to see why it wins Emmy Awards. Each episode satisfies my love for travel and reminds me how it should be savored and not rushed.

The team members cannot hide who has an intolerant nature. It is clear who among them has never ventured outside their city, let alone the country before. In some ways the show is a promotion for solo travel. It seems clear who will be divorcing, breaking up or ending a friendship.

I wonder who will travel more after the show ends?

Travel Photos Inspire - Shutterfly Holiday Card Collection

2010-10-24T12:19:00.000-07:00

This time of year is my favorite. I'm contemplating travel plans for the new year. I'm culling large photo files. There is a chill in the air and a fire in the fireplace.. It is also a time to update our address lists and start thinking about what photo we are going to use for our holiday card.

Travel photos are my favorite style for Christmas cards. Exotic locale or big city rooftop, it doesn't matter as long as we've captured one great moment together during our trip – that is harder than it sounds!

Kauai Santa - Christmas in Hawaii

Besides one amazing photo out of hundreds from a trip, I need a beautiful card and holiday stamp to go with it. Each year one of the hardest decisions to make is where to get holiday cards and what design to choose.

This year is different. This year not only are we starting the decision-making process weeks earlier than usual I’ve already got three great ideas from the new Shutterfly holiday cards. This year we can pick up prints at Walgreens, CVS, or Target® stores too.

Right at the top of their best sellers page is the Mod Snowflakes Christmas Cards that I just love. The black background is perfect for us city folk. Its square shape makes it unique and the design simplicity is pure sophistication.

One of the joys of sending our own cards is that we can say Merry Christmas if we like. The Bright Merry Cheer Christmas card is a style that appeals to the spirit of the season. The sentiment is bold and that speaks to our family. I love that the card stock is sustainably forested.

Because we have many friends in other countries, some years we like to send a New Year’s card instead. The Black Border folded card offered under the New Year's Cards selection is perfect. This card is simple but the photo can be vertically or horizontally oriented and the card stock is also sustainably forested.

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This post is part of a series sponsored by Shutterfly. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

Waters Edge in Venice

2010-09-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

Our view of the Grand Canal from atop the Rialto Bridge - Venice, Italy

We spent a week in Venice and I often thought about the slow sinking of this beautiful city while walking. It was hard to imagine it being gone completely. The streets are at times very close to the water line, even in the spring when I was there but to have the entire city submerged was beyond me.

Winter months are when it seems one - or at least I as a tourist - would expect to have water overlap the streets. Do you remember the big December 2008 flood photos - with everyone wearing stylish hip-waders?

That winter it was said to be the deepest flood in 22 years. I read in an old Evening Independent that in 1966 both Venice and Florence experienced the worst flooding since the Middles Ages! Even the mayor of Florence was quoted as saying that the Arno River did more damage to the city than the water.

Wordless Wednesday - Spicy Spain

2010-09-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

Casa Gispert - Barcelona

Summer has officially arrived in the city

2010-09-04T16:06:00.000-07:00

Our warmer temperatures are finally here in San Francisco! Granted it is Labor Day, as in September not June or July, but this is when our city warms up. September through October are some of the warmest months here.

We hope you come visit our city and if you do, bring you dog. We have lots of parks and watering holes for you and your whole family to enjoy - starting with this one in the photo. Crissy Field in the Presidio of San Francisco is a great destination for first time visitors.

Wordless Wednesday - My Bali Memory

2010-08-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

View from our driver's windshield - by Sharon Castellanos

San Francisco Free Fun - Boudin Bakery at the Wharf

2010-08-12T14:43:00.000-07:00

A crunchy crab!

San Francisco can be expensive to live in and to visit. However if you look around there are lots of opportunity to find fun things to do at little or no cost any day of the week.

Sourdough Animals you can eat!

A name synonymous with San Francisco is Boudin's Bakery. Never heard of them? Have you heard of sourdough bread? They basically invented it! Yep, in 1849!

Wild yeasts in the San Francisco air had imparted a unique tang to their traditional French bread, giving rise to “San Francisco sourdough French bread.” Today, the Boudin family's initial recipe lives on in the hands and hearts of our expert bakers, with a portion of the original mother dough still starting each and every sourdough loaf we make.

And the cool thing is that besides their stores and cafes, they have a large main restaurant on Jefferson Street that includes a shop and bakery where you can watch them in action! They are walking distance from the Argonaut Hotel.

It is fun to see and the bakers put on a good show. During Golden Week, we took our visiting Japanese friends to Fisherman's Wharf and this was one of their favorite photo moments.

Fun and free! Their baker has a mike so you can learn too.

This is free to watch and you can wander around but if it is foggy and cold, like it is so often, you might be tempted to buy their famous clam chowder in a bread bowl.

San Francisco Mission District Murals

2010-08-04T15:34:00.000-07:00

Mural across the side of a school along Folsom Street in San Francisco

What do you think of when you hear of or read about the San Francisco neighborhood called the Mission? Nowadays the stories are not as centered around the funky shops or even growing high-end rental property and live/work spaces. You don't see constant references to Dave Eggers, McSweeney's or his literacy project 826 Valencia with its Pirate supply store in tandem to each story about the Mission.

This summer what I have been pleased to see on every excursion to the Mission, besides all the colorful people and food - I see beautiful unexpected murals. There are lots and lots of murals all over the Mission District. You can find them on the sides of huge buildings or covering a small transformer box. Look down an alley and see one or along the wall of a play ground you pass by.

It impresses me that the people have the talent to create these large scale works of art. The murals tell a story, often a cultural story or slice of history. Most of the murals are centered around the Latino community who also make up most of the fabric of the Mission District today. I love walking down 24th Street from Dolores because from there until well into the Mission, each corner offers me a chance to glimpse this public art.

Recently what made me really excited? I walked by a group of tourists taking photos of murals. What was once possibly considered graffiti and something to cover an eyesore, has now entered the art world. To learn more or take a virtual tour, below are several great resources:

Mission Haiku by Gregg Schoenberg - A Polaroid guide To SF's Mission District Written in Haiku
San Francisco Neighborhoods - 24th Street/Mission
Precita Eyes - Murals of the Mission

Tokyo Where?

2010-08-02T17:26:00.000-07:00

Wow. Now when I look back on my time spent in Japan as an expatriate, I guess it was pretty ballsy. It was ten years ago. The internet was still a baby, especially in Japan. Granted we got NTT Dokomo 3G clamshell design "kick ass" cell phones for USD $30 ten years ago but they were only good within the ISLAND known as Japan.

Good luck with that!

However what stopped me short recently, was finding this directory [the image above]. Inside the cover, it tells you in English, what to say and where to call in an emergency. The directions are in English but they still direct you to say as much as possible in Japanese. Seriously, they tell you to speak slowly and clearly. If at all possible to speak Japanese using their indicated patterns. If you cannot make yourself understood properly, do not hang up.

Give your address the Japanese way: city, ward, street address and house or apartment number.
Give a nearby landmark for reference - train station or store.
Give your name.
Give your telephone number.

Don't panic, even if it is a fire or an earthquake or traffic accident. Really? You are in a country where you have no extended family and for Americans, this is a non-Roman language speaking country of people who really don't care for foreign nationals all that much. Do you know how hard it is to get a working visa? And everyone gets lost, including cab drivers and local policemen so the landmark idea is a crucial NECESSITY.

On this list, they also have an Emergency Medical Interpretation Service. This is for when communication problems would otherwise prevent institutions from providing emergency care to foreign nationals. And as far as the police are concerned, just remember that their focus is on the traffic accident, robbery and ALTERCATIONS. After having lived there, I can only look back and truly think this is code or translation for public drunkenness.

Finally because I love to end on a high note, if you were to consider living in Japan and you are from the United States. Their Fire and Ambulance emergency number nationwide is 1-1-9. Yep, the backwards version of ours. Arigatougozaimasu!

P.S. Tokyo Doko translated really is Tokyo Where. I added the question mark.

Wordless Wednesday - Venice Water Taxi Thrill

2010-07-21T10:12:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday - Rodin with my sister

2010-07-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

Family Ancestry Inspires Travel

2010-07-11T15:50:00.000-07:00

My mother's side of the family comes from a long line of hardworking people who lived by the sea. In 1890 my great great grandfather sailed his ship to Washington state and stayed to raise a family. Go further back to the 1700s and they could be found in remote areas of Maine and on Orr's Island.

[sketch from family book]

My first job out of college was for the Oceanic Society here at Fort Mason, in San Francisco. It didn't pay much but one of the benefits was practically unlimited sailing opportunities. I love being on or near the water. Early on I only knew of my Washington state family history but a few years ago I was introduced to my great great grandmother. My great great grandmother wrote a journal for each of her two daughters, and my great aunt's daughter gave me a photocopy.

I read a story of family that tells of hardship on the islands during the Revolutionary War to records of second marriages because of death by scarlet fever or because a spouse was lost at sea while out whaling. My great great great grandmother could sew an entire sheet by hand in one day!! Keeping a journal is nothing new, only rather than a blog online it was kept on paper with a fountain pen. The copy I have includes watermarks, corrections in the margins and lines crossing out names of deceased or lost family members.

The stories of early life in this part of our country and the tough women in my family, inspire me to get my butt across the lower 48 to explore Maine. I've only been to Sabago Lake in Maine so I've got a lot of land and sea to cover. I think in movies so I'm wondering in my head...will the experience be The Shipping News? Whales of August? Perfect Storm? Moby Dick (Gregory Peck version)??

My sister went to Europe and all I got was this sweet story.

2010-07-02T12:38:00.000-07:00

My sister went to Europe and all I got was this sweet story. Thanks goodness. Truthfully my sister went to Europe and bought loads of souvenir t-shirts that said "My mother went to ____ and all I got was this lousy t-shirt". However lucky me, they are for her kids and grand kids. Bullet, dodged.

It has been a few days now that everyone returned from the big three week trip. My ears are burning from all the stories and my brain is trying to keep track of the different versions and who said what. Here are 10 short highlights:

No one died
No one broke any body part or needed paramedics or late night pharmacy run
They had a great exchange rate for their dollars
British Airways didn't stop them at the gate or turn the plane around because of their drinking
Everyone took photos - but my mom never took her date stamp off the front of her pictures
My sister spent the most money on souvenirs and gifts
Except for a little inclement weather in Paris, they had fabulous temperatures
My mother stayed in her room to avoid everyone - only on the last day
My sister and mother only got into one real fight, over laundry
I've got loads of stories and photos to share with the world

[My sister makes the BEST tourist. She poses, she asks to take photos like this & she buys the tote!]

Funny Family Stories:

My mom got pulled aside at Heathrow during their connection to Paris, for secondary inspection. She clearly looks suspicious or maybe someone caught her giving her daughter-in-law the stink eye. Anyway she had to go downstairs and have all of her stuff gone through. Even with that, they still made their connecting flight without a problem. Yeah, taking only carry on for a three week trip, really made a difference.

My brother, the CFO and classically trained nerd, had my mom and sister keeping track of their purchases. He then had them convert them from Euro to GBP to US dollars and grouped into a dozen or more categories. When they returned to the US, he had them fill out - in detail - the Customs form with the extra section for overflow items! Seriously. Why, as my mother would say, "on God's green earth" would they need to give a detailed description of their stuff? It's not like my sister has a shop in Salinas and she is going to sell those "lousy" t-shirts, or those ten Windsor Castle cloth ornaments my mom bought are going to bring in a tidy "undeclared" profit in Tucson. Besides, anyone who brings back a few hundred US dollars in souvenirs, simply writes (in the four lines provided) Candy/Cookies $20 Misc Souvenirs $100 Burberry Scarf $175. Done. And you just keep the receipts in a Ziplock or something if the Customs officer asks. Which of course he didn't. Because my brother had her so worked up my mom told me three different times how surprised she was when they were just waved through to the exit. Since he paid for their trip, maybe my brother felt justified and got some strange pleasure from forcing them to do all of that math?

My sister, after eating strawberry tarts and loads of bread and butter, actually lost 11 pounds. Not the GBP kind of pounds but weight. She called me and was OVER THE MOON with disbelief and joy all mixed together. All those stairs up and down Notre Dame, Edinburgh Castle and Arc de Triomphe paid dividends! Getting up at the crack of dawn to take the train to Versailles before the crowds arrived paid off. The swollen ankles will soon be a distant memory. She burned off the daily bottles of Coca Cola and now she is pumped. I'm so happy for her to see that the classic "burn more calories than you consume" model still works. Especially since both she and my mom learned first hand that Large - XL on a label in Europe is usually a Small-Medium size for an average American. Fortunately my mom has a friend she can give that black t-shirt with the crown outlined in sparkles to. Bullet, dodged.

Stay tuned for more family stories....until they stop me.

Wordless Wednesday - Summer Vacation

2010-06-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Digital Mama in Europe

2010-06-26T11:11:00.000-07:00

Getting my mother a digital camera for her first trip to Europe was my good deed. She got it early so she could practice shooting pictures and deleting the goofy or overexposed shots. Being a very cautious lady she was concerned about running out of room on her memory stick.

Even though we went through an exercise of calculating the average size image and how many would fit on her memory stick, her verbal panic on the phone and general worry of space after being in Europe for three weeks convinced me to buy her a second memory stick. Clearly she didn't need it but if it made her happy and cost me less than $20, it was a small price to help her focus more on her sight seeing.

Recently I got a postcard from my sister describing her joy at being in Paris and how AWESOME it all was. She made no mention of my mom or anyone else on the trip for that matter. Now I have two postcards from my mother. One is digital that my brother produced off of an iPhone App and the other a traditional card from a Paris gift shop.

She sounds like she is having a good time. They will "van" to Normandy soon and they had a great river cruise on the Seine. My religious mother who had many alcoholic family members even went wine tasting. That is HUGE because she has a clear position on drinking and alcohol of any kind. I thought she'd keel over in a faint at Thanksgiving several years ago while I had a martini.

Wine tasting, taking lots of photos and feeling empowered to delete the worst ones - this sounds like my mother really committed to having a good time on the trip. I can't wait to hear more when they return next week. In person is always better.

P.S. Here is my mother SMILING in the gardens at Versailles in France. Notice her outfit? Do you think she looks uncomfortable as my sister-in-law implied she would? Her outfit looks pretty cute & neutral for an over 75 lady. Reminds me of older Japanese ladies I'd see traveling.]

Paris is Awesome - My Sister's First Postcard From Europe

2010-06-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

My older sister is already half way through her first trip to Europe. After her eye rolling when I saw her last, it was weighing on my mind that she might be not having as good a time as she expected and hoped. Fortunately for me, and you, I have hard evidence now that she is having an AWESOME time.

If you can't read this scan, my sister is clearly EXCITED about Paris. She climbed the the bell tower in the Notre Dame Cathedral and in Versailles. She loved seeing the Louve, the Musee d'Orsay and Eiffel Tower.

Her joy at being in Paris and in France period is palpable from this postcard. I love that she sent this postcard so early in her trip too. She arrived only three days earlier so jet lag must not have been a problem for her.

Want to know what made me really happy too? She took my advice and printed labels for her postcards. I knew her handwriting wasn't the most legible so it was a little selfish on my end - hey I wanted to be sure the handlers on that end knew where to send the postcard. It's happened before where my stepmother addressed a postcard that took months to arrive domestically. It was returned to her twice because the postmaster could not read the address.

My suggestion for the labels was also so she could be confident that she had all of her friends & co-workers addresses ready and that this stuff wouldn't take up any space. Remember my sister-in-law in charge of this trip had their packing list stripped to the essentials so they wouldn't check any bags while flying coach.

I did get a phone call on Father's Day from a few members of the group and heard that my sister is also being bold and trying every form of protein in France. Not sure what she loved but she tried all sorts of meats and even frogs legs. I'm so proud. The cutest thing and something that made me love my sister a little more is her closing "Au Revoir!" If this means she is a little more open-minded and the next time I try to expose my sister to tasty dim sum she tastes it before ordering sweet and sour pork - this was a successful trip and I owe my brother and sister-in-law.

Buffalo Bill Historical Center - Cody Wyoming

2010-06-23T13:08:00.000-07:00

Family Travels #5 Bon jour Paris!

2010-06-15T10:00:00.000-07:00

How cute do they look? Here are my mom and my sister (cropped because I never asked them if they cared about my showing their faces) in my brother's living room. Want to know how excited they are? My sister asked me to take their photo and my mother smiled in the photo! I know! I wish I could have shared that rare smiling image but you'll have to believe me.

At first I was surprised at these happy faces since my sister was rolling her eyes pretty hard when I arrived an hour earlier. I wonder.

So here is the first funny part - see the blue tote bag? The initials ZF. Dig this, my mother - as a form of caution and identity theft I think - used one of our dogs initials! Yes our dog! Who passed away 30 years ago. His name was Zorro.

Part of me thinks that she's brilliant, the other part of me thinks she is a little bit crazy - a 1950s, unspoken/suppressed, Cold War style of crazy. That perspective should make for some interesting comments overheard in Normandy and probably Paris too, if my sister takes notes.

What made me happy more than anything here are the guidebooks in my sister's hands. They are the ones I bought her to keep as mementos - and she brought them with her!

Now the other funny thing here, my sister-in-law claims my mom refused to pack her suitcase "properly". This means according to my sister-in-law that my mom is only able to take half the amount of clothes as my sister-in-law, because my mom bunched her stuff up and is taking sneakers that are too big. Hmm. I didn't get a chance to see the inside of her suitcase, so I can't really comment on that judgement. Also again, my mom has an unusual thought process and comfort level. She may come out of this with only very happy memories about her wardrobe. I will find out the gory details at the end of the trip when I see my mom's suitcase then and hear her recap.

My sister-in-law also criticized my mom's beige suit in the photo, and how dirty it will become. Again I can't comment because in reality, it could go either way - I can't call that one definitively. No point given to either side.

Today is Tuesday, June 15 and they are in Paris due to leave first thing tomorrow Wednesday to Normandy. Since they are a party of six my brother decided to hire a car to take them from Paris and to ferry them all around the sights of Normandy, France. They leave Friday night on a train from Lille to London.

I can't wait to get my first email or e-card. My brother made my mom leave her cell phone here with me - I guess I shouldn't expect any late night calls from her starting with "Guess where I am?"

Wordless Wednesday: Bon Voyage First Time Family Travellers

2010-06-09T23:05:00.000-07:00

Family Travels - Final push out of the nest and into the air

2010-05-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

My sister is like these daisies. Sweet and happy looking, with bright open faces. With her first big trip out of the country almost here, we spent one more day together for final purchases.

She has been told that she can take jeans now so she wants a new pair. I thought of steering her in the direction of those Not My Daughters Jeans at Nordstrom. With her figure they might be the most flattering. I want to minimize her "freshman traveler" look. However she could not be convinced. Instead she got two pairs of Style&Co jeans at Macys, a brand she currently was wearing.

Fine, I gave up. What I did convince her to buy was a pair of socks for the plane. They are the therapeutic socks that will keep her blood from pooling in her ankles during the long flight. She doesn't know where she is sitting so she could be stuck in the middle of a row for hours at a time.

We also decided that she should get a neck pillow. REI had one for $20 that was a simple deflatable model that also had a nice soft fleece cover to it. This will support her neck if she falls asleep, which I doubt she is too excited.

My work is over now. I have given her maps and books, advice and a list of her favorite foods in French. She swore to me that she would take notes or at least try really hard to remember the good stuff that happens between everyone. I love anecdotal moments the most.

I know that the dynamic and differences between the six of them has to be fodder for some sparks during meal time at least. At most, we will have a melt down by one of them at some stage. It's three weeks together

Now I guess I will just sit back and wait to hear how it all goes down when they all return. I am going to be on pins and needles until the end of June!

Memorial Day Honor

2010-05-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

Plan Your Staycation this Summer

2010-05-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

Relaxing Home Retreats

Staycations have become more popular as vacation savings shrink or dry up completely like so many have over the past few years. Granted for some of us travel that involves a plane ticket is a luxury any year. The high price of gas might also mean this summer we stay even closer to home.

One alternative to feeling like a prisoner is to choose how you spend your vacation. You can put all the same time and attention to detail, as you would a trip to London. My sister has maps and books galore to look through before her European trip with my brother and mother. Why not apply the same excited attention to your staycation?

Consider these tips:

Decide on a theme: you go to Paris and your time there is all things French. Maybe you want a spa vacation at home.
Prepare your home: you make a packing list for your suitcase, do the same at home. Plan what you want to have around you and clear out the clutter.
Unplug! When you travel overseas you often cannot communicate with friends until you get home. Do the same here.
Bring a book: You take your books & magazines on the plane or to the beach, do it here. Cut back (or keep off) the television and computer and have some fun reading material! If you are a member try Costco otherwise, check out your local library.
Favorite Foods: You go to new places to try their food and experience their culture. Consider picking up some new and exotic meals or ingredients to make dishes you have always wanted to try. Be adventurous!

Don't forget that this should be a getaway even if you are at home. We tell ourselves we won't call into work or check emails when we have spent all this money to take a plane somewhere, be good to yourself and make that pledge here.

Relax and enjoy yourself this summer because I imagine time will fly and soon enough you will be day dreaming in your cubicle about next year.

Brad Pitt and Tokyo Subways Make a Great Study Tool

2010-05-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

Riding the subways and trains in Tokyo can not only get you from point A to point B but they also provide you with time to learn. The few years we spent living in Tokyo, we did everything but drive. We walked, rode our bikes, Rollerbladed, took taxis, rode the bus, subway, train and Shinkansen. We also rode in other peoples cars as passengers.

As you can see here, I collected many of the subway passes. This one for about $10 was typical Japanese - cute and adorable image of a puppy. I can't tell you how many of these I brought home as keepsakes.

Usually my time spent on a train was trying to read the posters and listening to the announcements. As I studied Japanese, one of my favorite study tools was to read the movie posters on the train. I learned that all foreign words are spelled in katakana. Once I started to learn katakana it was fun to translate popular movie titles like Eyes Wide Shut.

The worst time I had was with the movie poster for What Lies Beneath. It is a mystery movie starring Harrison Ford and Michelle Pfeiffer. For some reason I kept thinking that "lies" was "rice", which made no sense when I stared at the images on the movie poster.

The next time you are on a train or bus in another country, look around. You might surprise yourself with what you can read and learn about the place you are visiting. You might see a celebrity like Brad Pitt selling Edwin Jeans or Boss coffee in a can.

Buddha Bar Marbella Spain

2010-05-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Groovy Virgin Ads circa 1999 Bussels

2010-05-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Photo by Sharon Castellanos

Wordless Wednesday: Cinco de Mayo

2010-05-05T13:50:00.000-07:00

Shanghai Secrets Learned Just in Time for Expo 2010

2010-05-02T08:00:00.000-07:00

One of my travel destinations that is near the top of my list is China, all of China. My Labor Day weekend spent in Hong Kong years ago only whet my appetite for more. Living in San Francisco, with our huge Chinatown and all of its people, restaurants and shops, keeps me thinking about planning a trip back too.

Today I just found out that the International Expo in Shanghai has begun. The newspapers and internet have in-depth coverage of the city and the Expo 2010. All I can is WOW, now I really need to plan a trip. I've always been interested in seeing Shanghai and its old neighborhoods. Remember the Spielberg movie, Empire of the Sun? It was so dramatic and captured my imagination forever!

It wasn't set in Shanghai but Bertolucci's The Last Emperor was the other huge movie (9 Oscars!) that made me want to know more about China and its history. There is a lot to learn about this city. I can see why it has been the setting for lots of well-known novels and movies. Did you ever see the famous movie Shanghai Express (1932) starring Marlene Dietrich?

Expo 2010

Behavioral adjustment squads have been deployed in Shanghai just in time for the many millions of expected foreign visitors. They sound more interesting than scary to me for some reason, certainly a reminder than one isn't in a regular democratic society. Their role is to be at metro stations urging people to stand to the right on escalators, to discourage spitting, line-jumping, pushing and shoving. Reports say that all of those habits are indelibly Shanghainese even if the government wants them to suddenly disappear.

These squads are also tasked with encouraging diners to take home restaurant leftovers, something that makes me happy since I know this is not so common in many cultures outside of the US. The squads will penalize smoking in public too, also a job I'm hoping remains permanent. My years in Tokyo probably scarred my lungs for life! I can't forget sitting down for dinner in a restaurant with an ashtray next to my fork! Then having neighboring diners stop mid-bite to take a drag off their smoldering cigarette. Bleck.

Pajamas in Public - Something I see around my neighborhood in San Francisco is apparently a well loved and well known habit in Shanghai, wearing pajamas in public and not just by the teen crowd. Ladies will match their handbag to their best pajamas for their shopping excursions! And maybe a not so attractive vision is those of the old men who like to wear only boxers out on the streets. Well, the Behavior Adjustment Squad will be out politely encouraging residents not to wear their pajamas in public, especially now that the Expo is here.

Dandalion image by reuters

Most Desired Exhibit I Want to See at the Expo - The Dandalion! Okay that isn't what it really is but doesn't it look like one?!

I love it! This is part of the United Kingdom Pavilion at the Expo, it is called the Seed Cathedral. Here is what you can expect:

Visitors will be invited to watch, touch and recognize seeds of different plants as the core exhibition of the UK Pavilion. They will be surrounded by the seeds in a 20-meter-high hollow cube-like structure with the seeds embedded in the walls and ceilings. The "Seed Cathedral" is itself an object formed from 60,000-plus transparent acrylic rods containing seeds. The seeds demonstrate the concept of sustainability, the diversity of nature and the potential of life. During the daytime, each of these 7.5-meter-long rods will act like fibre optic filaments, drawing on daylight to illuminate the interior. At night, light sources embedded in each rod will allow the whole structure to glow.

This is the kind of concept where art meets technology that I will stand in front of and contemplate for hours. I want to know how they did it, what it means, do I get it, notice if other visitors get it and then imagine what happens next. And since I am in China, go sit with a cup of tea and just absorb it all.

Other Interesting Shanghai Secrets - I'd love to know how they have toilet technology that expels odors below the level of the human nose! I read about this ability in the Financial Times last week. Since I did live in Japan and know first hand that people care about this sort of thing, and have the tenacity and skill set to tackle figuring out an answer - I believe the story. However I am dying to see how that one works!

Wujiang Lu - this is the city's famous snack street and is set to be sanitized and redeveloped. I understand concerns about a level of cleanliness that foreigners may expect but that makes me sad. Chinatown in San Francisco has its own streets that could use some cleaning now and then but they are never that bad. We also have our own Shanghai Dumpling King, which serves killer soup dumplings.

So I suppose if I get to Shanghai some day, I will focus my snack discovery more on the yummy octopus on a stick instead of the soup dumpling. Nah...all of that is too delicious sounding and like my pet, I'm very food motivated.

Family Travel - Shopping Day With My Sister

2010-04-29T10:00:00.000-07:00

I recently spent a day shopping with my sister. She has a long list of what she can take on her trip in June. Since it is my brother making the list, he has made sure to impress upon her that she should not deviate at all or face his wrath. For reals, whatever. He is older than her by a year, what is he going to do? She can take him anyway, at least I'd bet on that.

Anyway this list has my sister in a tizzy and so we decided to get together and see what we can accomplish. This turned out to be a good thing because she easily got distracted and I tended to refocus her on sale items so she'd stay on budget. She has time and since she lives in a town that sells more Wrangler jeans than packable travel pants, I figured she should head to the big city of San Francisco.

We started at Costco but struck out except for a box of Handi-wipes that she can take instead of liquid Purell which thrilled her. She just learned the 3-1-1 concept from TSA. Then we moved on to REI where we found a great backpack! This is one of my favorite outdoor stores. They have equipment for skiing, hiking, cycling, kayaking, you name it!

Don't tell her I told you, but at the front of the store my sister saw these miniature tents on the walls. She thought they were for dogs! Seriously! I snorted I laughed so hard. These Barbie size tents were just displays, with tags that detailed the available dimensions, how many they could sleep etc. It was a pretty funny moment and a reminder that she is a travel newbie.

At REI we decided to go with the JanSport backpack that had great shoulder straps (with soft silicone gel inserts!) and deep deep pockets. In the main pocket she can fit a pair of shoes, pants and shirt plus her camera and other gear with no trouble at all. It also has three other pockets for spreading out her magazines, hand-wipes and snacks. She can also fit this pack under the seat in front of her on the plane.

Here is a pack similar to what she got:

We didn't find any clothes or shoes for her there but we definitely looked and tried on several for fit and feel. Actually trying on travel style clothes got her excited all over again. It was cute. She loved the idea and feel of the shirts that take little effort to wash and don't wrinkle. She tried on shoes but they only had the hiking shoes which she didn't need.

We moved on to our final destination Nordstrom. They are well known for starting out as a shoe store in Washington State. The service and merchandise is worth checking out. We hit the restroom there and got lucky when we walked out and into the department we were looking for! Encore has their larger sizes for all the major brands including Eileen Fisher. That was a good sign. She loved discovering the Foxcroft brand that include wrinkle free shirts. She got one of these:

My sister wanted to make sure she had comfortable and well fitting clothes if she was going spend the money. We were there two hours. After trying on several style shirts and pants, we hit the jackpot when we found a knit top that she loved on sale. It fit well and Nordstrom had the second neutral color of navy ordered from another store and sent to her house directly. Love that service! So with the Foxcroft shirt and two pants we were almost done.

Before we left for home, we stopped at the lower level to check out the walking shoes. My brother specifically said she cannot wear sneakers. The salesperson put my sister into a pair of Munro shoes, basic black with velcro to make it easy on her. I know she is going to be worn out! This is the pair we decided on:

Aren't they cute? She will test them at work before we decide on the second pair. Besides all the advice, my parting gifts to her included two guidebooks and a map. She is so excited about this trip that she was anxious to get guidebooks that had lots of pictures and tips. They would be her souvenirs and part of the trip planning buildup.

Laminated Streetwise London map (a basic that won't die in your bag or tear)

This 2010 Eyewitness London Guide (she is here the longest so this made sense)

Top 10 Paris Guide (she is here for only a few days, so why not just the highlights?!)

I could have peeled her off my ceiling when we got back to my house and she did a show and tell for my husband. It is hard to imagine that my first time abroad was [gasp!] 25 years ago while still in college.

Wordless Wednesday: Scary Signs Gibraltar

2010-04-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Unexpected Roadtrip: Richmond VA to LA

2010-04-26T12:42:00.000-07:00

My 25 year old niece drove herself along with her surprise passenger, from Richmond Virginia along the southern route of the US before dropping her passenger off in Los Angeles. Since this sort of cross country trip is something that I have always wanted to try, I asked her to document her drive.

Her surprise passenger was her brother. He surprised her and everyone else in the family when he took a few days off work and jumped on a plane to make the drive with her. It was sweet and we all were happy that he rode shotgun.

I'm not sure if it is because I grew up in a law enforcement household or what, but I never would have considered taking that drive on my own. However I can tell you many friends of mine from the East Coast and Midwest have driven across country multiple times without any problems.

One of these days though, my plan is to follow Route 66 at least from end to end and document it. Then I could stay at the WigWam Motel in Arizona! Our theme song could be Johnny Cash, I've been everywhere man.

Okay I digress, this post is for my amazing niece and her roadtrip back to California! The Golden State and all of the family welcomes her return! Too bad she is focused on her career in the restaurant industry, these photos aren't bad - take a look along with her comments...

My brother and I stopped at Marlowe's Ribs and Restaurant in Memphis. It's right down the street from Graceland, and had some awesome BBQ.

Inside at Marlowe's- tons of Elvis memorabilia.

Crazy snow storm in New Mexico/Arizona! Who knew it snowed in New Mexico/Arizona?! I certainly didn't!

Funny truck in Flagstaff

Best brick I ever took on vacation

2010-04-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Trying to help my older sister decide what to pack on her first 3-week trip to Europe is tough. Her typical style of travel is getting in her Toyota Rav4 and driving somewhere.

She packs whatever her car will hold. Imagine a messy lumpy jumble - sort of Tetris and the wooden block stacking game Jenga.

I've seen her cram various sizes of tote bags, duffel bags and/or paper bags into the trunk and onto the floor of the car. For me, the worst part is her lack of planning and gasp, lack of a list.

Why do my sister's messy car trips matter? Because they show me where I am starting from with my sister and what she probably still needs to know about travel and packing light. Because you know she will need room for souvenirs. I predict we will have multiple conversations before June about electronics, specifically related to her camera and mobile phone.

My plan is to take her to people who I know can help with her questions. Since I've been a Mac and Apple person for years now, I have no idea what she needs to take for her electronics honestly. My middle brother is the PC geek and Microsoft C++ Programmer whatchamacallit "I stopped listening years ago to you when we were 11" guy.

What I know and care about today is this gem, pictured here. Technically this little square piece of equipment is labeled a power adapter, but everyone I know with any related Apple product that needs one calls it a brick or power brick.

What is magical about this brick is that it eliminates the need to pack a converter. On my last trip I took a small plug adapter for the Continent and for the UK. Both took up exactly three square inches of space in my luggage. Don't you love technology?

Wish me luck with my sister. She may call my brother for help, and that's okay. I plan to show her the benefits to owning an Apple iPhone anyway. She can think about it for her next overseas trip. I'm worried more about getting her to pack properly and to not take too many clothes.

Wordless Wednesday: Backyard Beauties

2010-04-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

Travel Tuesday - Sisterly Advice

2010-04-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

My sister is coming to town tomorrow. We have decided to spend the day together trying to figure out what she needs to take with her on her trip to Europe in June, and what she should leave behind.

My sister is much more familiar with driving as the mode of travel for her vacations. She can drive hours and hours without complaining. I bet she loved that road trip Oprah did with Gayle.

My sister rarely flies and has never been out of the country before. On this trip she will be gone for more than two weeks.

She already is worried about what to use for carrying her gear and what the difference is between an adapter and a converter. Her style and needs are such that I bet stores like Sports Basement, REI and Orvis will be more her speed than the trendy Flight 001 in Hayes Valley.

Hopefully she will remember to bring her lists and her electronics. Unfortunately she is not an Apple person, which would make things easier for her but I am sure we can find the right converters and adapters for her camera and phone at Get Lost Travel Books Maps & Gear. They have knowledgeable staff who I know can help us.

It should be an interesting day together. I hope she doesn't get overwhelmed but I will try to inspire her about getting all this first time stuff out of the way. Once she knows what to take for this trip, the next trip will be that much easier.

And I hope she stays excited about the notion that this will be the first of many overseas trips for her. She loves traveling and I do not see why she can't do more world travel that is just for her and not because my brother planned it.

My sister really is smart and clever, she just doesn't always believe it, which is one reason why I plan to give her these resources for next time:

Women's Travel Club

Women Traveling Together

Women's Adventure Travel

I have never used them but groups like these can show her that she isn't alone. There are many like-minded women out there who she can travel with. My sister needs to get out and about. Her kids have grown and it is time she does more for her own enjoyment, and that is where I come in!

Missing in Sausalito

2010-04-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

This time of year always makes me think of my long departed Aunt Dorothy. She lived across the San Francisco Bay in Sausalito since World War II until she passed away in the 1980s.

My Aunt Dorothy was a great lady who loved, absolutely loved, people. She owned a shop in the Village Mayfair near the Sausalito Harbor. Her tiny shop sold all sorts of items made by local craftsmen. Most of her customers were tourists.

Whenever I would visit with Aunt Dorothy, she loved to tell me about the people she met, where they were from and what they loved about her shop.

Her shop was called The Shoestring. She named it that because it literally was the size of a shoe string. It was very narrow. She also ran it on a shoestring budget. Her father was an shipping executive who got his ten kids and family successfully through the Depression by running a tight household. I think she paid attention and learned from him.

After I graduated college, she shared with me how much the building management had changed at the Village Mayfair. She explained the many changes in ownership and how the new owners cared more about revenue than the quality of merchandise being sold.

My Aunt Dorothy cared a lot about selling items that represented the Bay Area and its creative residents. She loved the notion of how she shared our beautiful landscape with people who didn't live here. I couldn't tell you how often I helped her wrap and send merchandise overseas because her customer couldn't take their purchase on the plane. She loved that part of the sale, as much as making the sale.

I wonder if she had been more mercenary, she would have lasted longer? She had her shop for more than 25 years. Every day you could find her 1955 White Ford T-Bird parked upstairs, covered with business cards of interested buyers. She didn't sell that car, which she had owned from the day she bought it, until the very end of her life.

After her shop was sold, my Aunt Dorothy slowed down. She knew she couldn't drive anymore, so she sold her pride and joy soon after she moved into assisted living. This time of year makes me think of my Aunt Dorothy because this is when I used to visit her.

In April the sun finally comes out more. The temperatures in Sausalito would be climbing so that we could sit outside on a bench together without freezing our legs off. The bay sparkles on sunny days, like it is filled with diamonds. We could sit for long periods of time and just stare at the bay and across the water towards San Francisco. Like most of her sisters, my Aunt Dorothy loved the water.

I love and miss my Aunt Dorothy. She was an independent woman until the end. After her second husband passed away in the 1960s she took care of herself. I admired her. She showed me you could travel, live a good life and be happy without being married. As a teenager and then in college, it comforted me to see her example in action.

Here's to Aunt Dorothy! I still remember her cute Hershey Kiss silver pendant that she loved to wear because of how fun it was, and a conversation piece for customers.

After her passing, my mother asked me if I wanted anything from Aunt Dorothy's belongings. I didn't think of the pendant but it was her sweet sophisticated Mademoiselle doll. The one who kept her company all those years in the store is the only gem I really cared about.

J'adore.

Wordless Wednesday: Majesty

2010-04-07T12:08:00.000-07:00

Photo: Sharon Castellanos

Travel First - Dipping my toes in the Mediterranean

2010-04-04T14:47:00.000-07:00

Mediterranean Photo by Sharon Castellanos

I've been telling you recently that I have a sister and mother who will be leaving the country for the first time and that their trip involves their first passport.

My sister will be buying her first suitcase with wheels, her first TSA lock and she will exchange money for the first time. She will probably eat her real fish and chips and shepherd's pie, maybe even drink her first Guinness.

My mother will be hearing French spoken around her for the first time. She will use a lift for the first time and hear a real Scottish Brogue, maybe even hear a lilt in someone's voice for the first time. I expect she might also have her first real fish and chips as well.

Well since we are family, and I have been sharing their secrets I will contribute my own recent first. Back in November 2009, during a trip to Southern Spain not only did I go to the Rock of Gibraltar and Morocco, North Africa for the first time, I put my feet in the Mediterranean Sea.

I have been to Spain before but during that visit, even though we stayed at a well-known Barcelona hotel along the harbor, and ate seafood paella at the Marina - I never touched the sea. The other visit included driving through the Pyrénées mountains outside of Barcelona. Not very dramatic travel confessions but I wanted to come clean.

My time in Barcelona was spent focused on all things Antoni Gaudi and Picasso, besides eating my weight in tapas and Serrano ham. The Museu de Picasso in the old city was totally worth my morning. Being music lovers besides loving Gaudi, we toured Palau de la Musica. I spent more than half a day just walking and sitting (it was a hot day) through the famous Park Guell.

Another half day was climbing up/down the stairs of Casa Batlló, with its incredible façade that looks like it has been made from skulls and bones. So I hope you can see why I may have missed thinking about the ocean. Le pido perdón.

5 Cheap Souvenirs My Sister Should Consider

2010-04-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

My poor sister. I can feel her excitement and exhaustion already. She is going on her first big trip outside of the country soon. Her need to bring back every goofy gift and soon to be covered in dust memento - is palpable. How can I help her? Should I help her?

She is my older sister so she will do what she wants after all is said and done. However, we have had our moments, when she gets that sweet look on her face and she realizes that I, her younger sister, actually knows something important and useful. And is willing to share it, for free. Unlike our childhood when I would have demand money or at least some sort of labor like making me some cookies.

However I am thinking about my sister, like many other folks out there who love bargains, love to shop and love to bring home stuff wherever they visit. How many ballcaps can one person wear? For my travel newbie sister and her two weeks in London, Normandy and Paris, I suggest she look for souvenirs like these:

Dish towel – so often you can find bar towels and other pretty cotton dish towels that are functional besides being a cute keepsake.
Photos – she needs to take tons of all sorts of photos and then there are inexpensive ways to print once she gets home (Costco and Walgreens have lots of bargains)
Baby Shirts – if she must buy a shirt, make it appropriate for one of her two granddaughters. These are tiny clothes that are cute and more affordable, besides being tiny for her suitcase.
Soaps – I know she loves nice smelling soaps for her bathrooms. Easy to find and easy to pack!
Candles – Just like the soap, good smelling candles are easy for her to choose and pack home. Bonus – they will make her suitcase smell good too!

Hopefully she will listen to some of my advice. I don't think she needs another "collectible" doll. The yellowed Princess Diana Barbie from the 80's, stands next to the Spanish Barbie our dad brought home more than a decade ago. I don't think she really needs another t-shirt either considering how many Disney shirts she has where the Tazmanian Devil is climbing out of her chest pocket...but I am only her baby sister, so we'll see once she gets back.

In the meantime, I plan to send her a list of these neat flea and open street markets that she can try and convince my mom, brother and the rest to stop at:

London
Portobello Market
Camden Markets

Paris, France
Rue Cler
Les Puces (The Fleas)

Wordless Wednesday: Horizons

2010-03-31T12:03:00.000-07:00

Photo: Sharon Castellanos

Family Travel: Teaching my older sister the ABC's of packing

2010-03-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

In a couple of months of my sister will be leaving the country for the first time. I'm excited for her and nervous for everyone else she comes in contact with. Don't get me wrong, I love my sister but she can say and do things that make me squirm.

My sister is a funny one. She loves to travel but won't go hardly anywhere without a companion. She will drive hundreds of miles to visit our mother or go to Hot August Nights vintage car shows in Nevada, but would never consider getting on a plane by herself even for a weekend in Vancouver, BC.

Since her divorce I think she would be perfect for solo travel clubs and excursions for lone female travelers. She could be the next Travel Betty! She is funny and personable, people love her down-home style. Our nieces laugh at her jokes.

My thinking is that her inability to pack or have the right travel gear is keeping her stuck on the ground. Something us regular travelers take for granted, a good basic suitcase and a simple packing list based on where you are going and how long you are away are both new concepts for her to really put some energy into.

Since I love her, I will do my best to help her, to teach her the ABC's of packing and give her simple travel tips to help her first experience in Europe be so good she wants to go back -- and because: (A) She will love seeing the sights (B) She will take pictures of everything, including her food (C) She will forget that she is in another country that might not speak English, but that won't stop her from looking at them as if they are crazy. Selfishly that means the family will have a goldmine of funny things to talk about at Thanksgiving and Christmas for years to come!

Here is what I will suggest to her:

22” suitcase – because she can stuff the hell out of it on her way back and probably not go over her weight limit.
Zipper Tote – to carry on the plane for her magazines, snacks and neck pillow. Maybe a Sherpani...
Three pairs of pants – because that is her style, no sense changing it now
T-Shirts - long and short sleeves, maybe two of each
Windbreaker/Jacket - medium weight because she doesn't get that cold
Two pairs of shoes - so she can alternate and air them out after walking a lot
Underwear - enough for half the number of days on her trip since they will have a washer and dryer in London
Favorite toiletries

And that is it. She will want to buy t-shirts along the way and her style is casual so why pack something that isn't you? And besides, until she leaves she will be worrying about how to charge her camera battery...

Wordless Wednesday: Beaches

2010-03-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

Photo: Sharon Castellanos

Father's Day: Now for something completely different

2010-03-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

Okay so it is a little early for talking about Father's Day but since I was just speaking about my mother, it is only fair to consider the flip side. My father.

My father lives on the Monterey Peninsula in California, a scenic gorgeous area on the coast. This photo of the wharf area was taken on one of our early morning (note: more like crack of dawn) walks together. He is a wonderful man who took his blue collar roots and added a flair that I admire.

He has had the travel bug since I can remember and probably passed it on to me. He certainly passed on to me his love of traveling in style. He has more photos of him wearing his white dinner jacket, with hand-tied bow tie, sitting at the captain's table than anyone else I know. He proudly showed me his traveling min-bar once. It is a beautiful leather carryall that holds a shaker, a jigger, all the necessary bar utensils and two glasses.

He savors traveling in comfort and seeing new places and meeting new people. I know he is really happy for my mom about her upcoming adventure. I'm sure part of him wishes he had done this with her back when they were happy and married. We are headed down to see him this week to celebrate my husband's birthday and celebrate my father's health. He doesn't get to travel the way he used to anymore. Today at 78, he travels more in his memories and through the pages of his books and photo albums.

My father reminds me that life is too short to endure a mediocre trip. Travel with flair. Enjoy the world out there and its diversity. His love for getting out and about is a counter balance to my mother's reserved demeanor and hesitations. I can appreciate that now whenever I travel with my husband. He likes to tease me about having one foot on the gas and one on the brake - at the same time. As if that is a bad thing....

Family Travel Firsts - My Mother Heads to Europe

2010-03-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

This is how I see my mom at San Francisco International terminal soon. She will be using her passport for the first time and flying with my brother to Normandy, Paris, London and Edinburgh. Given her advanced years, late 70s, I am both excited for her and worried.

I like to see my mother as this statue is, arms strongly raised and in a posture of leaping into the unknown without fear. However since she has never traveled internationally and maybe because I want her first time to be memorable, I am a little worried.

My mother is very down to earth and practical. However she has a tendency to follow rules so closely that her experience of something new can be very narrow. She is not spontaneous and her sense of humor is often missing, especially in times of stress. Traveling with my brother, sister, and two sister in laws and father in law could turn into a tough time for her.

This group of six all have very different personalities. Also, only my mother and my sister have never traveled outside the country before. My hope is that they are patient with her so that she experiences these new places and all that they have to offer, in a wide open and multicolor way.

Until June arrives, I will keep visualizing my mother as this statue from the Hoover Dam, and have mini-conversations with her with the hope of priming her for a better than average first time abroad. I am hopeful she will have a good time since after two months she is still excited, she knows the value of Ziplock bags in your suitcase and she just told me about her trick of taking a sheet of labels already printed with all the names and addresses of friends and family she wants to send postcards to.

So I don’t think I am too far off base in my assumption of picturing my 70-something mother as this strongly built figure. She has been strong at various times of her life and I will do what I can do help her be that way in June.

Travel Photo: Spring in San Francisco

2010-03-12T11:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the second of two gorgeous sunny days here in San Francisco. Today is a different story. However let's focus on yesterday since it clearly is more beautiful and a wonderful reminder of why San Francisco is a destination city.

I was out taking my dog for a walk up and down our hills when I found this landscape. Isn't it out of this world? How does someone make an urban sidewalk feel like I'm in the middle of Avatar?

This is 3-D with only sunglasses!

What makes this special too is that anyone is free to enjoy it. Just walk to Castro and Liberty Streets.

These plants look indigenous to the Bay Area but I don't know for sure. However some looked like I had seen them at the florist shop or in a large vase in the lobby of an office building.

I'm just so impressed and appreciative that we have San Francisco residents who decide to landscape around their home in a way that brings beauty to the public sidewalk, not just their own backyard.

And you want to know the best part? I took this photo with my iPhone (the 3G but not the 3G S). Thanks Apple. When we are out and about I appreciate it when I can capture the moment rather than kick myself for forgetting my camera. It happens sometimes when I am too focused on counting out enough poop bags to bring. Yes, I'm talking about Cleo...

Rue Cler 75007 Paris, France

2010-03-09T12:47:00.000-08:00

My second visit to Paris was better than my first. You want to know why? My second visit included my future husband, though we were keeping that a secret at the time. But the secret ingredient to this trip being better was his presence. He adds color to everything.

It was his first visit to Paris which made me the instant "expert". I immediately felt smarter than the last time. Also though my high school French wasn't any more polished, my vocabulary was still better than his which added to my good feelings. Five years before, on my first visit, I was too intimidated to walk into a cafe alone. This trip, he walked into all sorts of shops and cafes without a second thought. I loved it and happily followed.

Eiffel Tower Photo by Eustaquio

Last time, I stayed with acquaintances of my father which were at best, awkward. This time we booked a room at a small hotel on the Rue Cler, near the Eiffel Tower. This street is famous, made more so by Rick Steves and his guidebooks. The central location is perfect for walking and sightseeing. Rue Cler is a pedestrian street filled with shops, an open market and various stalls selling all sorts of items.

The hotel room we discovered we had booked was a let down. This is before the Internet, so the booking had been done over a fax machine and long distance phone calls from my office. We had no photos only descriptions and only our fingers crossed that any of it was accurate. When we arrived that evening, after an exciting day taking the Eurostar from London for the first time, our room was a big fat disappointment.

What could be so bad? It wasn't the thin flat pillows on our beds. Nor was it the sad little apple and black coffee set out as the "continental breakfast" for the next morning. The shock of having an internal air shaft as our "window" was the first blow. Having two, almost on the floor, twin beds that showed their back pain inducing coils through the bedsheets was the second blow. The knock out punch and third strike, was that the room next door had the same space but a killer view of the Rue Cler and though it was empty, the management would not switch us.

However, instead of sucking it up like I would have last time, being there together pushed me to find another place. STAT. I didn't let my poor language skills get in the way. Instead we took it to the streets and literally just walked around until we soon struck gold. Gold!

We discovered around the corner a small hotel that was across the way from some construction work. This is France, we knew that if they worked during the day out there, we would never be in our room to hear it, we would be out having a cafe au lait and a baguette. We also figured the workers would not start at the crack of dawn like in San Francisco.

After walking in and asking about rooms, we were taken to a small room for the same price of our current hotel room but with an unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower!! Similar to the photo. Every night of our stay, we saw the lights go on the Eiffel Tower. It was magical and straight out of the Woody Allen movie, Everyone Says I Love You.

My second visit to the City of Lights was so much more colorful thanks to being there with someone who expected more. It was so much more fun to not settle for less, especially when you are visiting somewhere special like Paris. This trip taught me to problem solve my way out of a situation even when I wasn't remotely fluent in the local language. We save our money to explore new places and see new sights, I learned then to appreciate that effort and not to settle for anything less than a memorable experience.

Editorial note: For my third visit, I will appreciate the "interweb" and likely check out one of these hotels...

Hats Off To America's Firefighters

2010-03-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Firefighters at Boston State House by Sharon Castellanos

5 Things To Do in Boston in Winter

2010-03-01T13:05:00.000-08:00

The Boston State House by Sharon Castellanos

Boston "Bah-stan" More Than Chow-dah: I just came back from a cold and snowy week in Boston. There were wonderful highlights and surprises but we also had some disappointments. If I was to give advice to anyone who wants to visit Boston during the winter, it would be these five tips:

Walk through Beacon Hill
Ice Skate on Frog Pond
Skip going into Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market
Grab a drink at Top of the Hub
Take a camera on the 2.5 mile trek along the Freedom Trail

Boston is the sister city to San Francisco which makes me happy but it suffers from similar issues. Faneuil Hall (pronounced "Fan-yule") and Quincy Market on paper are important in history, however today they are full of tourist trinkets made in China and poor food choices. You are better off either ignoring them or just taking a photo of the exterior buildings. Treat yourself with an extra photo next to the giant statue of Revolutionary Patriot Sam Adams, and famous brewmaster.

Boston Common on Day 1

With the frozen waters around Boston comes the fun activity of outdoor ice skating! Living on the west coast we only see this on occasion, when we have the Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center in San Francisco. This temporary rink comes from corporate sponsorship. It is a different story in Boston. The Frog Pond at Boston Common, bordering Beacon Street and the Cheers bar, has an ice rink open from November to mid-March. It is only $4 to skate for adults and $8 for skate rentals. You are in America's oldest public park and surrounded by beautiful landscape.

Beacon Hill Boston on Day 3

All along Charles Street on Beacon Hill there are great shops and historic architecture. This is the oldest neighborhood in Boston. We found lots of antique shops and cool businesses selling period furniture and fixtures. Gas lamps are still being used, and many townhouses still have iron boot scrappers on the front entryway. It is easy to walk this area without fear of getting lost, most streets lead eventually to a famous landmark it seems. We wound our way through the streets until we came to the State House and its golden dome.

Walking the Freedom Trail in winter can be daunting, between the cold wind and icy temperatures even if you don't have snow falling. You are rewarded by seeing American history up close and personal. Making the 2.5 miles along the red brick trail can be done in winter if you bundle up and plan to stop along the way for something warm to drink.

Granary Cemetery Boston - Along the Freedom Trail

Finally as a well deserved treat and unique perspective, getting a night cap at the Top of the Hub in the Prudential Center building is a great idea. The food is fine but again reminds me of some of the more dated restaurants in San Francisco that is more hype than substance. You are better off having a drink and soaking up the grand views from every window! You can walk around the entire floor and see the city skyline from end to end. Even in the dark we could see snow covered Fenway Park, just waiting for spring a Red Sox game!

All photos by Sharon Castellanos

Ganesha is in the house, now what?

2010-02-26T11:52:00.000-08:00

Ganesha!

A dear friend gave me this small statue recently of Ganesha, the Lord of Success. She had her sister bring him all the way from India for me. Maybe she knew that I would appreciate his help. Manali and I met for lunch and she told me all him and his importance. As a non-Hindu, I found his story fascinating and intriguing. As a storyteller, I found his significance mesmerizing and compelling.

The story of how he got his elephant head goes something like this:

Once goddess Parvati, while bathing, created a boy out of the dirt of her body and assigned him the task of guarding the entrance to her bathroom. When Shiva, her husband returned, he was surprised to find a stranger denying him access, and struck off the boy's head in rage. Parvati broke down in utter grief and to soothe her, Shiva sent out his squad (gana) to fetch the head of any sleeping being who was facing the north. The company found a sleeping elephant and brought back its severed head, which was then attached to the body of the boy. Shiva restored its life and made him the leader (pati) of his troops. Hence his name 'Ganapati'.

Now you may wonder what's next? I have read that Ganesha is not only the destroyer of evils and obstacles, some write that Ganesha is also the destroyer of vanity, selfishness and pride. It is said that he may also put obstacles in your way, to prevent you from going down the wrong path. I like that and hope that is true.

Another view of Ganesha

If you decide to get your own Ganesha statue, two tips I got were to be sure and not put him near any shoes or the bathroom. Those were big no-no's.

I'll tell you this little statue already is sitting in my office, gazing at me while I write this. Hopefully he is busy helping behind the scenes of my life already as I undertake this venture of writing for a living. Also I hope he helps my dream of going to India to visit my friend Manali and her family a reality in the near future.

Ganesha watching my back

Dior Addict Nail Varnish? Delicious Jamon?

2010-02-17T08:18:00.000-08:00

Iberian Ham by Sharon Castellanos

Top 5 Travel Tips For Your Elderly Mother

2010-02-16T13:04:00.000-08:00

My mother is finally getting her passport and going to Europe! She has lived on the west coast her whole life and has traveled as far as Hawaii to the east, to Victoria Island in Canada and across the border to Mexico in a small plane back in the 1950s. None of these adventures required a passport at the time.

Getting her passport was an adventure by itself. She had only one original birth certificate, all hand written and on a huge piece of paper. She said it came from the hospital itself back in the day and before they made certified copies. I think she had to guess on her father's place of birth because he wasn't in her life much past the age of five. Then the question of passport photos, and whether you had your glasses on or off became a big question mark. She had people telling her different stories but in the end it didn't matter because none of the photos were her favorite.

This trip is very exciting because for her first overseas excursion, my oldest brother is taking her not me – which is why this is exciting for me.

My brother has it all set up so that she and my sister will be kept busy, while he and his wife, both seasoned travelers, along with her older father enjoy themselves as well – for two weeks. They will be in London, Scotland and Paris. If it goes well, I will take her somewhere else, like Italy in the springtime, before her passport expires.

Though this is my sister’s first time across the Atlantic as well, it is more exciting for my mother because she is unique. She is in her late 70s and comes from a family background where she didn’t travel anywhere, except by cable car or trolley. She never learned to ride a bike. The irony was that her mother’s family grew up traveling by steamer ship and train, on a regular basis.

Mr Toad's Touring Car by Sharon Castellanos

I must admit that I didn’t think my mother would be able to out aside her routines to make the trip. She is quite capable but I don’t get the impression she likes to be out of her comfort zone for long anymore. However this trip is great news and hopefully she will have an amazing time, returning home with lots of stories and pleasurable experiences.

Until she leaves, my plan is to keep touching base with her and giving her tips and tricks learned from all of my travels. You can’t really say what she will remember or actually use but here are my top five recommendations for any elderly lady traveling in June to the UK:

Comfortable walking shoes that fit well, include orthotics if necessary
Bring warm layers, include a hat and gloves
Zippered flat bottom tote
Scented bar of soap to wash out undies and socks
Favorite reading material

My mother already says she does not get the British sense of humor, so unless they are showing a Jane Austen movie, she won’t be watching the television or “telly” in the evening. She lives in Arizona for a reason, so she knows to plan for cold temperatures. Having a sturdy tote, that can sit flat on the ground by her feet and zips close for security will make her relax and enjoy the people around her. Otherwise she will be distracted from the sight of the Tower of London by the man sitting on the bus across from her. Suggesting she bring reading material is important because she gets up at the crack of dawn, even on vacation, thinks most airport magazines are trashy and needs something to read while my brother and the rest go on the whisky tasting tour.

Amazing Race 16 Starts on Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T13:50:00.000-08:00

The Amazing Race 16 - Premiere Sneak Peek is here! I'm so excited to see this new season. This television show is such a fun way to see the world and get a sense of new places, and of how you might travel in new environments and with your closest companion.

Sundays on CBS starting Feb 14 at 8:00 pm PST

Celebrating Lunar New Year with cookies

2010-02-11T11:11:00.000-08:00

San Francisco Chinatown by Sharon Castellanos

There is nothing more exciting in San Francisco this time of year, except perhaps for the Cherry Blossoms, than the big celebrations around the lunar New Year. All the populations that follow the Asian Zodiac have wonderful ways to highlight the changing year, and this year is no exception with our own Chinatown throwing the largest parties and parade around!

Cookies by Sharon Castellanos

This is the time to gather with family, honor ancestors and celebrate with a big banquet that symbolizes prosperity in the New Year. So far I have only experienced the parties vicariously, through my friends telling me stories of their family gatherings. From their stories however, it sounds like every culture including Asian families, has that drunk uncle, wild cousin and unpredictable in-law. All the ingredients for great childhood memories and good times!

I love eating dim sum and all sorts of other dishes year round, but this time of year is special because the symbolism associated with each dish is about everything positive and hopeful. This year I learned more about the foods and their meanings. Did you know that:

Chicken and fish, for example, symbolize happiness and prosperity--especially when served whole.
Dishes made with oranges represent wealth and good fortune because they are China's most plentiful fruit.
Noodles represent longevity: therefore, they should never be cut!
Duck symbolizes fidelity, while eggs signify fertility.
Bean curd or tofu, however, is avoided because its white color suggests death and misfortune.

This explains a lot. This past week I had noticed lots of Asian people at Costco (the big warehouse chain) buying whole fish, and looking really happy while they waited. Normally myself and most others are a bit cranky waiting, as our blood sugar drops and we see the line at the cashier deepen by the minute. At this same store and some nurseries, they have been selling dwarf orange or kumquat trees.

Cookies by Sharon Castellanos

While cruising through Chinatown this year, what surprised me was the number of ladies buying tins of cookies. They looked liked cookies or biscuits served at high tea rather than around a Lazy Susan or living room coffee table. Are fortune cookies just for restaurants? The cookies they were buying were not cheap either, most were $12 a pop.

San Francisco Chinatown by Sharon Castellanos

The cookies did look tempting, and I for one hope they are for eating rather than an offering on a shelf. While I appreciate the sentiment and importance of tradition, my sweet tooth would get the better of me. And did you know this lunar New Year is on Valentine's Day? What a nice sweet coincidence. Since the Winter Olympics in Vancouver are starting now as well, and the city has a very large Chinese population, I bet a lot of excitement and extra special celebrations are going on there.

We are moving into the Year of the Tiger, and its motto is "I win", which I think is perfect. So much to celebrate this time of year and what better way, than with a cookie!

Cherry Blossoms in San Francisco

2010-02-10T09:00:00.000-08:00

Cherry Blossoms by Sharon Castellanos

Stop! Σταματάω! Остановка! Parar!

2010-02-03T07:02:00.000-08:00

Stop Sign by Sharon Castellanos

Steamer trunks and leather grips

2010-01-30T11:00:00.000-08:00

Low profile cabin trunk

Cabin trunks which are sometimes called "true" steamer trunks, were today's equivalent of carry-on luggage. They were low-profiled and small enough to fit under the berths of trains or in the cabin of a steamer, hence their name. Most were built with flat-tops and had inner tray compartments to store the owner's valuables deemed too precious to keep stowed away in the main luggage train or berth.

My grandmother and her sisters used to tell me the best stories of their lives growing up in the Northwest. Their father was an executive with a shipping company, and each sister had a chance to take these incredible journeys on the ships he was in charge of. The old photographs show these grand images of laughing groups of men and women, all in formal attire.

Spending time with my grandmother and her sisters meant that, besides hearing exciting stories, I might also have a chance to open their old steamer trunks. One never knew what you would find inside their trunks, or what new story you might hear. These experiences certainly fed my dreamy imagination as a child.

My grandmother had her leather grip packed with photos and her belongings, until the day she passed away. When she visited us, it was so exciting to sit on her bed and watch her unlace the straps and then smell the inside lining as she opened her grip. This name she used for her suitcase, itself was straight out of a Humphrey Bogart movie for me. It spoke to my sense of romance and adventure, and the hours of old black and white movies I used to watch.

A little dust never stopped me from pulling out a feather fan snapping it open and asking, sometimes demanding, to hear its history. I was sure to learn about a party on their way to 1920’s Japan, or an excursion to the Philippines. Hearing how my great grandfather managed his finances and his daughters’ families through the Depression makes me very proud.

Louis Vuitton Trunks by Geishaboy500

Inside one of those trunks were letters, dictated to my great grandfather’s male secretary who accompanied him on his travels, written on hotel stationary describing his immediate work but also detailing his expectations from his girls and their financial need for the year. They each had to submit a list of their expenses and he’d go through them, even while he was traveling on business trips.

Grips a little closer to what my grandmother carried by Malias

These stories gave me a love of family history and for travel. In my dreams, without the 3-1-1 TSA restrictions and full body x-ray scans, travel would include a worn leather grip and a handmade Louis Vuitton trunk. I did say dreams right?

Winter Blues? Close your eyes and try walking into a photo...

2010-01-25T14:27:00.000-08:00

It is usually around this time of the year that I start to get a little blue. It is mostly due to the cold weather that seems to never end, and the persistent gray skies. Like many people, come January and February I probably could benefit from some light therapy.

One idea that is free, but has helped me, is visualization. I take a photograph like the one here, and pretend that I am there. Using photos of places that I have been to, like this photo taken at a La Pesquera in Marbella, Spain seems to help me with the process.

My technique is to close my eyes, take a couple of deep breaths and then quietly walk into the photo. Think The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis or maybe The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. For me, I try to visibly relax my posture and with my closed eyes begin by hearing the sounds inside the photo.

La Pesquera - Marbella, Spain by Sharon Castellanos

Can you hear the surf? There goes a little boy riding his bike along the boardwalk. I can hear the sound of coffee cups in their saucers being set on the café tables. A big family just arrived and are noisily pulling out their chairs. The conversation is loud as their voices excitedly talk over each other, while looking hungrily at the menu. Off in the distance, I hear a jet ski fly across the waves. A well-dressed older lady slowly walks by, stopping suddenly to pet and kiss her little dog affectionately.

Next my nose starts to work, and my sense of smell goes through the photo. With this photo I immediately smell the Mediterranean sea. Next my nose picks up the faint scent of fresh fish being cooked in the kitchen of this restaurant. I smell the perfume of the mother sitting at the table near us. A waiter walks buy with a tray held high and I smell the seafood paella pan - the saffron rice aroma wafts above my head.

And finally, I begin to feel my way though the photo. My feet touch the wooden planks as I walk out to the put my toes into the sand. I bend down and scoop up a worn shell. My face gravitates towards the sun on the horizon, feeling its warmth even on this November day. The temperature outside is not hot, but my skin warms from a brisk walk to the waters edge and back. My arm feels the pull of my heavy tote, with its guidebook, camera and assorted travel contents.

I breathe in deeply all the smells around, listening to the music of this coastal town in Spain and decide to sit for a while – soaking up the winter sun, knowing that I have found one more place on Earth that speaks to me. Feeling this connection to a new place cheers me and adds to my certainty that I am a global citizen.

This sort of virtual travel only takes your imagination mixed with a little boost from your own photo. If you don't have any try using a travel magazine or the images at National Geographic. Being blue isn't fun for me and if you have similar feelings, maybe if you try something like this it will help - let me know.

Guardians are all around us

2010-01-20T11:20:00.001-08:00

Guardian Angel by Sharon Castellanos

Arabesques: Notes from Southern Spain

2010-01-16T10:30:00.000-08:00

Arabesque covered wall by Sharon Castellanos

Geometry was not my best subject in high school but the nerd in me feels a certain affinity to shapes. When we were in walking the grounds of The Alhambra in Spain, the intricate carvings in the walls were mesmerizing for me. It was easy to walk with your head up in the air or stuck in place staring for long minutes at various walls inside and outside the grounds.

Part of me wondered if there was some sort of hidden meaning behind all of the carvings. It felt that way, and they also reminded me a little of Egyptian hieroglyphic writing and images. Walking through the Alhambra every inch is covered with carving, from the doorways all the way up to the ceiling. The arabesques cover the exterior walls also. Can you imagine the intensity of the work, especially when you note all the long curves and swirls that don't end in the patterns.

Here are a few of my favorite designs along with a definition from Wikipedia that helped explain what is behind these patterns.

Arabesque @ Alhambra by Sharon Castellanos

The arabesque is an artistic motif that is characterized by the application of repeating geometric forms and fancifully combined patterns; these forms often echo those of plants and animals. Arabesques are, as their name indicates, elements of Islamic art often found decorating the walls of mosques. The choice of which geometric forms are to be used and how they are to be formatted is based upon the Islamic view of the world. To Muslims, these forms, taken together, constitute an infinite pattern that extends beyond the visible material world. To many in the Islamic world, they concretely symbolize the infinite, and therefore uncentralized, nature of the creation of the one God (Allah). Furthermore, the Islamic Arabesque artist conveys a definite spirituality without the iconography of Christian art.

Arabesque details @ Alhambra by Sharon Castellanos

Happy Spanish Art Installations

2010-01-13T12:44:00.001-08:00

Art in Alicante, Spain by Sharon Castellanos

Carpets and Sales Pitches in Morocco

2010-01-11T09:55:00.000-08:00

Rolls of Moroccan Rugs by Sharon Castellanos

Part of spending the day in Tangier, Morocco meant going to a carpet dealer and listening to fifteen minutes of really educational information on the history and world of carpets, then spending another thirty minutes not making eye contact with several dozen men drafting behind and beside you within the showroom.

Moroccan Carpet Showman by Sharon Castellanos

The history of carpet making is actually really interesting. Learning that spices such as saffron are still used to get that warm color dye for carpets. I enjoyed how they rolled out several different carpets to illustrate the difference in how the number of threads per square inch affects color and heft. On a side note, I was a little distracted by our educator's pointy yellow mules. Couldn't tell if they were leather but he pulled the look off so much that I came really close to buying a pair.

Beautiful Moroccan Color Carpet Threads by Sharon Castellanos

If you go, don't worry about the hard sell. Inside the showroom they do seem to take your lead, and if you don't want to buy then they will quickly move off to someone else who either is showing interest or at least is waffling on the fence. It is the guys outside in the narrow streets and alleys that you have to be firm and direct with if you have no interest in buying anything. They are all about getting that one tourist or visitor before you make it to the neutral zone, which is just before the gangplank of the ship returning you to Spain.

We didn't buy anything on this trip but I really did enjoy listening to the pitch and the information in general. Once inside the showroom I felt relaxed enough to close my eyes at one point and imagine what this experience would have been like without the walls and more than a hundred years ago. I also had a quick second of joy by replacing our salesmen with that actor who is in the Mummy movies, Brandon something?

If you get a chance to go to one of these cities or showrooms, go. It is worth the unique experience, and once you know the rules it takes a lot of the stress off of you. Imagine you are back during the times of Aladdin or Lawrence of Arabia if that helps. Trust me, it is the same everywhere. I have had similar experiences in Bali, Bangkok and even San Francisco.

Yosemite in January is as slow as molasses

2010-01-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Winter in Yosemite is just as beautiful as it is in the summer, only without the crowds. The pace is slow. You can go for a walk and its nature that is making the noise rather than people talking. The waters gurgle as a raucous group of crows play in the snow alongside an empty parking lot.

It was during this visit that we came also across of this little fella or lady?

Yosemite Morning by Sharon Castellanos

This is one of my favorite photos from the January morning when we left, and the day I got a speeding ticket shortly after leaving the park.

Who speeds out of Yosemite? My intention wasn't to leave this gorgeous national park so quickly, only that once we were completely out of the park the landscape between it and San Francisco isn't as mesmerizing and my lead foot got the best of me.

There you have it, my first new year resolution completed. #1 be more forthcoming within my writing even if it is unflattering. Check.

A Day in Kyoto - Five Favorites

2010-01-07T17:11:00.000-08:00

I loved Kyoto. While living in Japan for three years, I didn't make the trip there until near the end of my stay. And I wished I had gone sooner.

It is all that you imagine of Japan when you read books or see movies. Lots of temples, beautiful quiet walk ways, serene even with the volume of people. Quite the opposite of Tokyo.

The hustle and bustle has a different pace, it is present but in a more purposeful way, as if in harmony with nature. You also have more opportunities in a smaller radius, to experience the Japan of yesterday. The solitude of a walk down an alley, or actual minutes alone at a temple - you would have a hard time finding this in Tokyo.

While we spent the day there, we saw actual geisha and someone dressed as geisha for a photo shoot. We walked down quiet cobblestone alleys without fear of getting lost because it seemed as if all paths and roads, big or small led to a temple or an open square with bench and relaxing fountain perfect for you to rest and regain your sense of direction.

My favorite five things to see and do in Kyoto in a day:

Ginkaku-ji - The Silver Pavilion, which is a Zen temple. The building intended to be a monument to ostentation (supposed to be all silver) turned out to be a fine example of Japanese refinement and restraint. The sand garden is hypnotic. This is also the first time I have ever seen someone sweeping, with a broom and not a rake, a grassy hillside.
Kiyomizu-dera - A Buddhist temple where not one nail is used in the whole temple. It takes its name from the waterfall within the complex. This temple has the most spectacular views! We stopped and had tea here just to make the experience last a little longer.
Walk the Philosopher's Pathway between these temples and along the most peaceful canal. The experience is so relaxing and allows you to soak up all that is really Kyoto.
Nijō Castle - Feudal lords in Western Japan were ordered to build this castle in 1601 by the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Kyoto Imperial Palace is located north-east of Nijo Castle.
Eat Savory and Sweet - Some of the best takoyaki is found here and the delicious rice treat filled with sweet red bean known as mochi. If you go during cherry blossom season, the sakura mochi is out of this world! Beautiful to look at and yummy! We were in Kyoto a little early but still managed to find shops selling mochi in delicate shades of pink, blue and white. It felt like a Japanese Easter for me. And the octopus chunks within the takoyaki are amazing. Savory with the sweet and smoky sauce drizzled on top. I love the shaved katsuo bushi flakes (like a savory dried tuna) on top.

Two days are better than one but if that is all you have, much can be gained from those 24 hours in Kyoto. We did it. If you find yourself headed to Asia, and can make this your destination or even just a 24 hour excursion - do it! Kyoto is beautiful and worth the extra effort getting there, even for just a day.

Kyoto ceramics photo by Sharon Castellanos

Packing Light, Packing Just Right - Thursday Thirteen

2009-12-31T06:03:00.000-08:00

Since my first solo trip, at the age of fourteen, where I had to pack and carry my own suitcase from start to finish, my goal has been to pack just right rather than just light. Granted my first solo trip was to a city two hours away driving. However for me this trip included a four hour bus ride, a thirty minute subway ride and then walking five city blocks - at fourteen. Cue ABC After School Television Special on runaways for the visual and of everyone who saw me along the way, the friendly and the too-too friendly.

Photo by Sharon Castellanos

The struggle to manage my bag left me determined to carry only what I knew would be used. No more cursing an overweight bag as it digs into your hands or strains your back every time you lift it. Besides, who needs twenty t-shirts for two weeks, unless you are menopausal and are having night sweats. How many shoes will be worn? Seriously, the average traveler only needs two pairs. My shoe cobbler (we still have them in San Francisco) told me to switch my shoes back and forth daily so each has a day to breath and retain its shape.

After long trips and short hops, here are my favorites that top my recommendations every time:

A warm big scarf, like a Pashmina
Wool gabardine slacks in black
A big silk scarf in a rich pattern
Khaki slacks
White long sleeve fitted cotton blouse
Black flats with cushion inserts
White tee shirt
Cardigan
Casual shoes with a bit more support
Trench coat
Striped blouse with French Cuffs
Tote with zipper closure
Pullover Sweater

Let me explain how we got here. A big oversize warm scarf can be used as a blanket, a pillow and a scarf everywhere on the trip starting with the plane. My idea of wool gabardine for slacks is due to their versatility. They hold up well after you iron them and can be dressed up or down, and black goes with everything.

For me a great investment is a nice heavy silk scarf. It is a light weight version of the warm scarf but this also can go beyond your neck. With a twist, you can wear a silk scarf as a belt or as a really pretty hair tie. These are styles I have pulled off before and with great results for a dressy look.

The rest is about layers for warmth, occasion and wrinkles. When you layer your clothes, it is easier to hide wrinkles that you can’t get out, like using a trench to hide those stubborn pant creases. Also if your shirt is rumpled, folding a cardigan over your shoulders helps and keeps you warm. For a nicer dinner out, using the shirt with French cuffs tucked around the outside of a sweater always looks pretty.

So don’t think you can’t travel light and still have all the right stuff in your bag. And don't forget that a zipper tote will always be a good idea to keep thieves out of your stuff, and to keep your maps and notebooks in. I've had LL Bean canvas totes for years.

Get out there this new year and see the world, it’s worth it.

Save money but eat well in San Francisco

2009-12-29T10:32:00.000-08:00

Sometimes when we travel we sacrifice a little on the food budget. We take chances and eat from taco trucks. We eat street food. We may skip meals. If you come to San Francisco there are many ways to eat well for less money, more than you may expect.

Soft Taco by Sharon Castellanos

Some of the best places may be a surprise to visitors, but worth a try I promise. San Francisco enjoys the benefits of having so many citizens who are from other countries and cultures. We have lots of wonderful restaurants and cafes that offer foods from around the world.

Ramen Bowl by Sharon Castellanos

You will likely get a better tasting - and inexpensive - meal if you try one of the many burrito shops, taco trucks, ramen shops or steam tables than if you went to a restaurant advertised in the lobby of a hotel.

Dim Sum by Sharon Castellanos

Here are four of my favorites:

Yank Sing 2 Go - steam table Chinese food
El Gallo Giro Taco Truck - tasty soft tacos
Sapporo-ya - savory ramen shop
La Corneta Taqueria - best burrito

Matadors in Ronda, Spain and Plaza de Toros

2009-12-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

Andalusian road sign by Sharon Castellanos

Driving the road to Ronda in Southern Spain can be treacherous. However if you survive, you are rewarded by a beautiful white washed hill town. Try visiting in November like we did, and you will have fewer cars to battle with on the narrow roads.

Once you arrive, you must visit the Plaza de Toros! This famous bull ring is one of the oldest operation bull rings and is the home to modern bullfighting and worth seeing.

Madonna 1994 Music Video Shot Here by Sharon Castellanos

Read through the brochures they give you, and with the additional information posted with the displays, you will definitely get the sense of rivalry between the style out of Ronda and the style of bull fighting in Sevilla. The matadores from Ronda give you the impression that they are all about skill and precision with weapons, while their colleagues in Sevilla are all about flash and dancing around. I’m just saying that is what I picked up from the English translated signage.

Plaza de Toros Ronda Spain by Sharon Castellanos

We bought tickets which included access to the museum and that made it for me. Besides the detailed history of the sport, the exhibits included stunning displays of the riding gear for both the horses and fighters.

We got to walk freely through the bull ring as well, and experience the thrill of racing for cover behind the false wall, as if a bull was chasing us! Ole! I can’t say I would pay to watch a bull fight, as I do feel for the animals, but after going through this arena and museum, I have a better understanding for those who do.

Random Fact: In 1994, US singer Madonna shot her music video, Take A Bow, in the bull fight arena.

Matador Statue in Ronda by Sharon Castellanos

We walked all around, from the entrance to the back stables with its equine residents. It is unique to be able to get such close up access to a working bull ring. It wasn’t difficult to imagine attending a bull fight here, though we read that most still travel to Sevilla these days.

California Pageantry

2009-12-23T09:37:00.000-08:00

California Pride by Sharon Castellanos

Rock of Gibraltar Tunnels and Pillar of Hercules

2009-12-22T12:52:00.000-08:00

What stood out on this trip for me was the historical significance of The Rock. This is the first place I have visited with evidence of human habitation going as far back as Neanderthal man! The first inhabitants were the Phoenicians, around 950 BC and one of the Pillars of Hercules is considered the Rock of Gibraltar.

Ancient Side to Pillar of Hercules by Sharon Castellanos

The Pillars of Hercules was the phrase that was applied to the promontories that flank the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar. The northern Pillar is the Rock of Gibraltar. When you walk up to it, be sure and look at both sides!

Modern Side to Pillar of Hercules by Sharon Castellanos

Staying on the Costa del Sol, most of the beach towns are within an easy driving distance to Gibraltar. You could definitely spend the day and enjoy yourself. The area reminded me a bit of Tijuana, Mexico in that there were loads of people who obviously made the daily trek back and forth across the border for work. When we walked across the border it was simple to negotiate directly with a cab driver to take you to see the sights rather than try and walk it alone.

Besides getting to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar, you should be sure and go INSIDE the Rock. Truly you can see a side of this area just as significant, by going inside the many tunnels. These are self-guided tours but I suggest you check out the Great Siege Tunnels.

The Great Siege of Gibraltar was an unsuccessful attempt by Spain and France to capture Gibraltar from the British during the American War of Independence. This was the largest action fought during the war in terms of numbers particularly the Grand Assault of the 18 September 1782. It was the longest siege endured by the British Armed Forces, as well as being one of the longest continuous sieges in history.

By the end of World War II, they had carved out over 30 miles of tunnels! I only climbed around a tenth of that but it is worth getting this unique perspective by checking them out during your visit.

And the other cool – literally – historical destination is St. Michael’s Cave. These limestone caves are in the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Be careful because they are very dark inside and there are stairs that can be slippery. However if you go, be prepared to see stalactites that are out of this world!

Prehistoric Fossil by Sharon Castellanos

Help Me Ronda, I have Spanish Vertigo

2009-12-20T15:53:00.001-08:00

View from Puente Nuevo by Sharon Castellanos

Besides having an amazing meal at Don Miguel Restaurant, my favorite time spent in Ronda, Spain was at its famous bullring and walking along the vista points staring out across the valley.

Ronda, Spain is simply a stunning hill town, one of the many white washed villages in the Andalusia region and not too far from the resort town of Marbella on the Costa del Sol. We drove up one of the narrow roads, in about an hour, with a mixture of motorcycles and bicyclists keeping us company.

It is not for the faint of heart since many of the signs you will pass along the way, warn you of dangers from tailgating motorcyclists.

We took our time and as we entered the town, easily found parking in a lot that was off the main street and had an attendant. Walking through Ronda, you can’t miss the many vantage points to stare out across the valley. We found one at the end of a beautiful park, and a small back street named after the actor and director, Orson Welles.

Paseo de Orson Welles by Sharon Castellanos

He apparently loved this town as did Ernest Hemingway, and spent many summers living in the old town quarter. He even had his ashes spread across the bull ring!

If you can handle it, walk along with Orson Welles, past the Plaza de Toros and toward the Parador de Ronda. This Parador built in 1761 is in the former town hall, in the center of the city. You will find it next to the Puente Nuevo and with one of my favorite views.

View of Puente Nuevo by Sharon Castellanos

Having stayed in paradores in the past, I am definitely coming back to stay here! My experiences with them in the north of Spain were wonderful, and I booked them directly online, in English. If you travel to Spain or Portugal, there are paradores that will not only be a great way to experience the area, they are perfect for families. Most of the lodging is not that expensive considering they are historical buildings and they always offer meals with regional menus.

Next: Plaza de Toros

Gibraltar: Much more than an Ape Haven

2009-12-08T10:30:00.000-08:00

Gibraltar was ceded by Spain to Great Britain in perpetuity, under the 1713 Treaty of Utrecht. Spain wants it back but a majority of Gibraltarians strongly oppose this and Britain will support whatever the Gibraltarians want. In 2002 the government put it to a vote and this unusual relationship continues. During our recent visit, it was clear that everyone looked pretty happy the way things were. We saw loads of people enjoying pubs and shopping along the downtown streets.

Apes of Gibraltar by sfcphotography

When you visit Gibraltar your itinerary must include the Great Siege Tunnels and a tour of the Rock itself. There is a tram that will take you most of the way up the Rock, but to get the true birds-eye view at the very top, you should book a taxi. Depending on the number of people in your group, the taxi will cost the same or less than the tickets for the tram.

Only taxi cabs have permits that allow them to carry you to the very top, the tour buses all stop mid-way, as does the tram. Part of the reason is the steep grade and narrow width of the road, portions of which fit only a single car or van at a time.

Monkey Business from the Local Vet

On your tour of the upper portion of the Rock, you will be able to see the Apes. They call them the Barbary Apes or Macaque. They caution you around the monkeys because they might bite if you get too close. Look at what happened this summer to American Pie Actor Jason Biggs! The monkeys can "act" friendly (and who doesn't think it is cute to watch a mama carry her baby around) but even the smallest will likely try to grab any food or interesting looking objects if you get too close.

The next time "The Rock" is mentioned on television or in text, my first thought won't be the former wrestler turned actor anymore. Realistically my first thoughts will be tied between Alcatraz Island and now Gibraltar. Since San Francisco is my home it is natural to immediately think of this famous prison that held the likes of Al Capone. However what is even cooler for a traveler, is that now my memory will include this amazing land off the coast of southern Spain.

Gibraltar from Above by sfcphotography

Next: Great Siege Tunnels

Camels! Camels! Camels!

2009-12-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

Camel in Tangier Morocco by sfcphotography

A highlight from my day trip to Tangier in Morocco, North Africa was being close enough to touch the incredibly calm and hardworking camels. Their faces tell a story that I would be interested to read.

I couldn't stop staring at them as they carried someone around on their back. If we had been at a dude ranch or some beach resort, I would expect to see the frustrated nag horse to plod along or the rebellious horse kick up their hooves in surly defiance. It was mesmerizing to watch how serene the camels were as they carried their passenger. No spitting as one might expect from the general stereotype stories, only a bumpy ride for a squealing tourist.

Baby camel by sfcphotography

And then there was the baby camel, getting exposed to the foreign visitors. It looked like it might be the baby of one of the working camels. It reminded me of Winged Migration, the documentary that showed how the cameras got so close to film the birds, simply by exposing the sounds that cameras make while the birds were still in their shells and soon after hatching.

Why do camels cross their legs like that? The green rope kept the little guy from going anywhere but what was worse than seeing him tied up for me, was seeing all the flies settle on his face. It is a disturbing image, so I'm including the only photo I could get with just one fly showing.

Baby Camel Face by sfcphotography

Boy do I sound like some loony liberal, big-hearted, animal lover or what?! Well, I say so what. Maybe I anthropomorphize animals just a little, but is that so wrong? I consider myself just a little extra empathetic rather than an extreme animal rights liberation type. We could all do with a little more empathy these days. And besides, isn't he cute?! I just love the sleepy eyes and pursed lips, not to mention those crazy long eyelashes!

Tangier, Morocco: Day Tripping in Southern Spain

2009-12-04T08:32:00.000-08:00

Tarifa, Spain by sfcphotography

My only reference points before going to Tangier, Morocco were one of my favorite movies, Casablanca and the 1973 song Midnight At The Oasis from my childhood.

Cue Maria Muldaur singing Midnight At The Oasis and you have my first impression as our high speed ferry pulled into port. We went with a tour group out of Tarifa and our ferry got us from Spain across to Africa in 45 minutes. The body of water you cross is where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic Ocean. Literally.

There are longer ferry routes from this part of Spain to Northern Africa, but taking the bus south less than an hour from Marbella to hop onto this high speed catamaran is worth it. It was quite enjoyable watching the coast of Spain fade back and as North Africa approached.

Tangier Morocco by sfcphotography

As we arrived, the day exploring Tangier was off to a great start by an unscheduled "welcome" from a departing fishing boat. That quick moment of spontaneous warmth from a stranger gave me such a positive feeling that I took about hundred photos or more during our visit. Normally my biggest problem is worrying about making people upset if I attempt to take their photo, and I am notorious for being awkward about asking first, which means I typically take more scenic or inanimate object shots. But not this time!

Spontaneous welcome from Tangier by sfcphotography

Next: Camels!

Alhambra Gardens Wanderlust in Spain

2009-12-02T11:40:00.000-08:00

by sfcphotography

Alhambra in Granada: Notes from Southern Spain

2009-11-25T09:34:00.001-08:00

Generalife flora by sfcphotography

One of the most beautiful palaces and gardens that I have ever seen or walked through are located in Granada, Spain. Calat Alhambra or more commonly known as the Alhambra, is simply a palace and fortress. However once you experience it in person, it is not so simple, and it is easy to become overwhelmed by the intensity of its beauty and architecture.

Once the residence of the Muslim rulers of Granada and their court, the Alhambra is now one of Spain's major tourist attractions exhibiting the country's most famous Islamic architecture, together with Christian 16th century and later interventions in buildings and gardens that marked its image as it can be seen today.

Generalife Gardens by sfcphotography

Here are the first in a series of photos from my visit. Let me say at the start that the Alhambra is an experience that takes time. My three hours gave me just a taste of what is open to visitors year round. I certainly plan to return again in the future.

Where to start? We chose the outside gardens before moving on to the interiors. The Palacio de Generalife, (Architect's Garden) was the summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid sultans of Granada. Built from 1302-1309 and redecorated from 1313-1324, they were my first stop. With finely detailed structure and impossibly colorful landscape, The Generalife is one of the oldest surviving Moorish gardens. Walking through it you definitely need flats because the walkways are paved in traditional Granadian style with a mosaic of black and white pebbles on their sides (think round or oval river pebbles from your own garden).

There is a sense of peace and tranquility from the thoughtful maze of hedges. You feel yourself slowing down, breathing deeply and not just because of the pebble walkway. The smell from the flowers perfume the air. You can find yourself walking among many people without seeing them because of the structure of the arched hedges. It is very impressive.

I cannot imagine what it would be like during the summer months. This is the most visited site in Spain with over 2 million people coming through each year. November was gorgeous. We had mild weather and few lines. We did have tours all around us from various countries but it felt quietly manageable. Our visit and navigation between buildings and the gardens was easy.

It is the 21st century and the guides and guards at various spots all had walkie-talkies. You have a half hour window to get into the main palace, then can have as long as you like to walk through it. However if like us you either walk slowly or get lost, any guard will help you. We had a tour guide from the gardens radio the guard ahead that we were on our way, literally running to make our 2:00 pm ticket window.

With the extensive grounds and our short visit, returning at another time of the year is something I plan to do. Given the beauty of what we saw in November, I bet it would be even more stunning to see what other flowers are blooming, especially in spring.

Islamic carvings by sfcphotography

Coming next: Arabesques

Amazon Kindle vs Other e-Book Readers: Help Wanted!

2009-10-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

So my first long trip out of the country is coming up. This time around my search for the perfect packing list is already wearing me out. One of the biggest problems for traveling light, on my trips anyway, comes down to my listening and reading material (Surprise! You probably thought it would be my number of shoes). For this trip my listening will be relegated to my Apple iPhone and all the music stored on it.

However my reading material will be a combination of Stanza and other apps that I have downloaded already. The sticky wicket here is that I also need another resource so that when one battery is being recharged, I can still keep myself entertained. We have some long flights and layovers to manage.

Now comes the expensive and confusing part, what e-book reader do I commit to? The number of choices out there are overwhelming for this e-book newbie:

Kindle DX (it just came out in May)
Barnes & Noble nook
Sony Reader
iRex iLiad
Jinke Hanlin e-Reader
CyBook by Bookeen

The Kindle is marketed as more suitable for displaying newspaper and textbook content. Does anyone out there have any of these readers that want to leave me words of wisdom in the comments?

Should I scrap the whole idea and just bring along some magazines like the Economist and the Atlantic? I will be in Spain mostly and will have access to decent power outlets, if that matters. What do I do? If there is anyone out there with an opinion or better yet, experience with one of these readers while traveling, and has the time to leave me their two-cents I would be grateful.

Climate Change and Enormous Spiders

2009-10-25T17:26:00.001-07:00

One doesn't have to travel far to experience drama and excitement. This spider is alive and "kicking", and living in a web in my town. shudder

Sometimes mother nature in your own backyard or porch, produces the best "costume" for Halloween.

photo by sfcphotography

Pumpkins and a Prius in Petaluma

2009-10-18T13:18:00.001-07:00

Fall is such a beautiful time of year to visit Northern California. Half Moon Bay has fields of golden and orange pumpkins, rows and rows of Brussel sprout stalks. The coast offers horseback rides along the beach and restaurants serving bowls of clam chowder and lobster rolls.

If you drive toward the Central Valley along Highway 580 and 205, you will see road side stands and corn mazes to watch the kids race through.

Make your way north to towns like Petaluma, Sebastopol or Olema and all around you will be the sights and smells of fall. Gorgeous green thick grasses with sleepy cattle. Buy seasonal Gravenstein apple juice, a thick hand knit sweater, local clover honey, or creamy goat cheese wrapped in a fig leaf at any of the quaint shops populating the main streets.

So much color. Glorious sights and smells. Wonderful small towns that hark back to dreamier times. A great way to celebrate the season for sure.

California Farmers Markets - A New Export?

2009-10-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how there are so many farmers markets in Northern California now. We seem to have them popping up in city neighborhoods, in empty parking lots and in larger more beautifully organized places like the San Francisco Ferry Building. They make great weekend destinations that's for sure.

Alemany Farmers Market

Besides buying local foods, supporting local businesses, a great benefit of going to a farmers market is the people interaction. You will encounter street performers with an open guitar case play music for children.

The people running their own stalls seem so much more engaged than at a supermarket. Some try to entertain you while selling their wares. Some open markets will have food stands. There you can often meet start up restaurants that will try hook in new customers by giving away free samples.

Afghan lasagna

Above is a photo taken at a stand selling Afghan foods. The saleswoman was incredibly polished and smooth with her style. She entertained us with her quips then hooked us quickly when she whipped out a sample that combined several spreads mixed together on a thin bread called Bolani - she called her snack "Afghan lasagna". It was really delicious!

Farmers markets also allow people to test out new and different produce like unusual variations of beans, squash and flowers. Walking through the stalls, I was amazed to see the various types of vegetables and fruits. Some I had never seen before.

There were Asian favorites like bok choy and lots and lots of tomatoes. I think this is a type of squash but I don't know. It was being sold at a couple of stalls.

A squash?

California is unusual and I wondered how many farmers markets are currently in other states. Thanks to the internet, I found a great way to learn about local markets in the rest of the country. Local Harvest is a website to find farmers' markets, family farms, and other sources of sustainably grown food in your area, where you can buy produce, grass-fed meats, and many other goodies.

I will definitely use this resource when I visit other parts of the county. Farmers Markets are certainly going to be a destination for my domestic travels from now on.

America's Best Idea - Yellowstone

2009-10-02T22:07:00.001-07:00

by sfcphotography

Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming is a favorite place of mine. It is unforgettable. Everything is enormous, the sky and diversity of animals all living within the park borders. Here is a photo taken several years ago on our drive to the Lake Hotel in the center of the park. It was an incredible experience seeing nature find its way through that burned landscape.

Watching the Ken Burn's series this week has been wonderful. It certainly reminded me of why we should all support public television. It also reminded me that we have had leadership in the past that valued places like Yellowstone, and set aside thousands of precious acres for future generations.

Bay Area Book Signing, The National Parks: Our American Landscape

2009-09-23T13:18:00.000-07:00

Scott Kirkwood, editor for National Parks Magazine, sees thousands of images of national parks each year. “As much as I enjoy spending time reviewing images of Acadia’s cliffs, Zion’s peaks and everything in between, there’s a point where I start to think seen it. When the magazine sends a photographer on assignment to Glacier National Park, he’s got to execute a shot that not only screams ‘Glacier’ before the reader even sees a caption, but also whispers something new to those who have visited the park dozens of times. Like painting a still life that reveals something more than just a bowl of fruit, it’s not easy to do. But Ian Shive does it. I’m still trying to figure out how.”

Being a photographer myself - who wants to go beyond the average image but struggles - I admire greatly the person who delivers something special, something more in their photographs. Compared to Ansel Adams, award-winning photographer Ian Shive will be in San Francisco to sign copies of his first book, The National Parks: Our American Landscape.

Shive's images have appeared in many publications spanning the globe including Time Magazine, U.S. News & World Report, National Geographic, Popular Science, The Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle, Popular Photography and Outside Magazine.

Supporting our national parks is more important than ever, especially with what we know now about the impact of global warming. A portion of the proceeds from book sales will go to the National Parks Conservation Association.

Stop into any of these locations, meet the photographer and get your beautiful autographed copy of this amazing book.

Saturday, September 26 - 2:00pm
Borders Union Square
400 Post Street
(between Mason St & Powell St)
San Francisco, CA 94102

Sunday, September 27 - 2:00pm
Borders San Rafael
588 Francisco Blvd.
San Rafael, CA 94901

Monday, September 28 - 5:00pm
Barnes & Noble
1725 Arden Way
Sacramento, CA 95815

The National Parks: Our American Landscape (Earth Aware Editions, August 2009) presents a wonderfully updated photographic survey of the nation’s greatest treasures. Seen through the eyes of the National Parks magazine photographer and International League of Conservation Photographers member Ian Shive, America’s National Park System comes to life through a collection of more than 200 new photographs.

Sponsored by the National Parks Conservation Association and the International League of Conservation Photographers, Shive’s first book of photography is a journey to the places that have long inspired him. “Since my youth,” Shive writes, “I’ve seen the national parks as the last authentic vestiges of America’s wildest places — symbols of its one-of-a-kind spirit.”

by sfcphotography

And on September 27, on Public Television will be the start of the new Ken Burns series The National Parks: America's Best Idea a six-episode series directed by Ken Burns and written and co-produced by Dayton Duncan.

[Above is one of my favorite pictures. I took this photo from inside the gorgeous Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park, California.]

Everywhere and Nowhere Travel: Your Own Backyard

2009-09-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

So today I decided to make this a personal post, not about travel outside of the US or even my beautiful city of St. Francis, but what it is like to travel about my own backyard.

When I started this blog many years ago it was to share my love of travel and photography, hoping that it motivated folks to get out and about, to embrace the world around them. This motivational tack is still my focus because I think many people need prodding to get out and about, especially further than their own backyard.

However in order to better understand the person who doesn't want to leave their backyard for the great outdoors and cities that require plane travel, I thought it was a good idea to look inward today.

The landscape is pretty nice but it reminds me of that town in Spain.....

by sfcphotography

The Day My Husband Was Famous

2009-09-08T13:17:00.000-07:00

Spending a few days in Kyoto, Japan, we were walking and visiting the shrines when these girls fell for my husband in his leather motorcycle jacket. It was a proud moment.

Tuscan Fields and Friendship

2009-09-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

by sfcphotography

I have a wonderful friend who lives outside of Florence, Italy. We met when we lived in the same apartment building, the Domus Minami Azabu, in Tokyo, Japan many years ago. She is Brazilian and wonderful. We became fast friends in Tokyo and have carried our friendship forward over the years, though we may only write every few months.

A couple of years ago we met up for the first time since we parted ways in Japan. She now has a young son and a wonderful house in a small town that she and her husband used to visit when they were first married. He is from Florence and so they returned to be near his aging parents and other family and friends.

When we finally met, she made a point of sharing with me all the wonderful back roads that I had never known existed during my previous vacations in the area. Before I knew her, I had no idea that you could drive forever and never see another car our tour bus for hours. And be minutes from the city center of Florence.

My dear friend truly has inspired me to be open to exploration off the beaten path, even when returning to a favored city and region like Tuscany.

This photo I took from our car window reflects the lush area and its intense color that seems to just seep into my camera lens. Whenever I look at this photo it reminds me of our friendship and its growth over the past ten years. I feel our friendship growing and spreading across Italy to California and back.

Maybe we will continue our journey south to Brazil and her homeland. I look forward to that possibility.

Summer Concerts in Sierra Foothills

2009-09-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

by sfcphotography

This summer ended with a bang for us. We got a chance to savor the final sleepy days with hundred degree temperatures and evening outdoor concerts and picnics in the low foothills of the Sierra Mountains.

Ironstone Vineyards and Winery is one of several vineyards that offers you lovely location to enjoy good food and great music. We have been a few times now and this last series was topped off by listening to the great jazz piano player, Diana Krall (who is married to musician Elvis Costello).

Here is the stage before she arrived and while the sun was still shining. We had a great buffet dinner beforehand. If you go, it is about two hours from San Francisco or an hour from Sacramento. Ironstone offers a great line up of artists including Chris Isaak and others.

You're a butterfly. And butterflies are free to fly. Fly away, high away, bye bye.

2009-08-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

Golden Gate Park Day - How to Spend the Afternoon

2009-08-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

piece of recycled denim by sfcphotography

Golden Gate Park in San Francisco is so huge that you could easily get overwhelmed trying to decide how to spend your day there. Fortunately most of the key museums and park activities have great people behind them and so have quite extensive information on websites.

The California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, California is now open for business after many years of construction and rebuilding after the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. It is a destination that will satisfy young and old.

[Fun fact: Levi Strauss Co donated 200,000 pairs of jeans for the insulation of the new museum. Ultra Touch is a U.S. company that makes denim insulation for houses and commercial buildings too]

This entire concourse in Golden Gate Park is such a wonderful destination for any trip to San Francisco. As you travel through the park, you will find a golf course, places to fish, see roaming buffalo or sail a model boat.

Park it @ Ocean Beach

At the very end of the park, resting against the edge of the Pacific Ocean, at Ocean Beach you will find two places to rest and enjoy a meal. The Cliff House is a landmark from 1863, but with several options for dining based on price and atmosphere. Also close by, and truly at the edge of the park, next to the old Dutch Windmill is the Beach Chalet and Park Chalet. They are offer casual dining with incredible views and great food.

sutro baths by sfcphotography

Top 5 Attractions in Golden Gate Park:

California Academy of Sciences - get your smart on!
De Young Museum - get your arts and creative juices flowing!
Japanese Tea Garden - feel the serenity of Japan...omm
Steinhart Aquarium - dive into watery depths of awe!
Convervatory of Flowers - smell your way to heaven...ahhh

NorCal Day-tripping with my iPhone

2009-08-09T15:39:00.000-07:00

We recently took a drive east about two hours for a little change of scenery and for warmer climes. Summer in San Francisco is incredibly chilly compared to the rest of the Bay Area.

San Francisco is a great starting point for day trips. In two hours you can go from a foggy urban city to a sweltering wild west town. These images are from my new iPhone. We stopped along a quiet road on the way to Jackson.

Celebrate Farmers' Market Week!

2009-08-07T12:40:00.000-07:00

Dog Days of Summer

2009-08-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

by sfcphotography

Tasmanian blue gum is too aggressive

2009-08-03T12:13:00.000-07:00

by sfcphotography

Take a close look because the Presidio of San Francisco is replacing all of these with cypress and pine trees. With 300 acres of eucalyptus, pine and cypress, the 123 year old Presidio is changing and redefining its historic forest.

Check out the Presidio Trust’s reforestation efforts here...

The forest is the most dramatic example of how people shaped the Presidio’s landscape. Its 60,000 trees provide an important wildlife habitat (the forest is home to more than 250 different species of birds) and contribute to the Presidio’s National Historic Landmark status.

In the late 1800’s the Army began the prodigious task of transforming the Presidio from mostly open dunes to a richly forested, park-like reserve, similar to New York’s Central Park. Following a plan developed by Major William A. Jones, the Army planted some 100,000 trees over 14 years along the Presidio’s ridges and entrance gates. The first trees, donated by Adolph Sutro, were planted in 1886, on Arbor Day. The eucalyptus, pine and cypress groves accentuated the post’s size, sheltered it from the winds and created a clear visual distinction from the surrounding city. It was the Army’s most impressive accomplishment in landscape architecture. No other military installation in the nation has ever undertaken landscape planning on such a grand scale.

The relatively short period of time during which the trees were planted however, created an “even-aged” forest. And while the eucalyptus have thrived, the cypress and pine have begun declining simultaneously. Presidio forester Peter Ehrlich is leading an ambitious effort to revitalize the forest over the next several decades.

“The goal,” says Ehrlich, “is to create an ‘uneven-aged’ forest that can be more easily sustained and will be a healthier forest in the long run.”

Each year the Trust replants two to three acres of pine and cypress. Since 2002, more than 2000 trees have been planted, with a careful eye says Ehrlich “towards preserving the qualities that define the forest’s character, like the orderly, military alignment of the trees.”

Staying one step ahead of nature is as Ehrlich puts it, “a daunting challenge.” One he has, at times, met with the latest scientific methods. Several years ago, in the face of an outbreak of pitch canker disease among Presidio pines, Ehrlich and his staff, along with foresters from U.C. Davis identified, then cloned Presidio pines that showed resistance to the disease. In 2004, more than 140 of the experimental, disease-resistant trees were planted. Five years later they appear to be thriving.

Current efforts are focused on finding a less aggressive and invasive replacement for the Tasmanian blue gum, a eucalyptus tree that can live to be 300 years old and is the most populous tree in the Presidio. The new tree Ehrlich says would look the same as a blue gum and be the same height, “only without the aggressiveness.”