by Tricia | Nov 26, 2019 | Travel Junkie
On a foggy November morning in the Latvian countryside, Rundāle Palace appeared mysterious and brooding. The summer residence of the Duke of Courland, Ernst Johann Biron, construction began in 1736 on the country’s largest palace. Soon we were invited into its...
by Tricia | Nov 19, 2019 | Travel Junkie
An anticipatory hush fell over the crowd as the deep voice boomed through the sound system. The ceremony was about to start. Seconds later, officials strode past scores of saluting military as music–we guessed it was the national anthem–played. Toddlers...
by Tricia | Sep 18, 2019 | Home and Hearth, Travel Junkie
Last week I received a request from an International Living editor to write a blurb about a unique place I’ve spent the night. In the email she included a link about a trulla, a country dwelling characterized by a cone-shaped top. I just so happened to have...
by Tricia | Apr 25, 2019 | Travel Junkie
Remember when air travel was thrilling? The sound of grand engines humming as you, the jet-setter, stepped aboard. Mouthwatering (all right, somewhat tasty, but at least “free”) meals. The chance to read and relax for hours, uninterrupted by incessant...
by Tricia | Apr 24, 2019 | Travel Junkie
Hello friends! After a lengthy overseas journey last month, I’m back and have a lot to share. This is just a quickie. If anyone–and I do say this because people still doubt–wonders if Portugal is a First World country, check out this newly revamped...
by Tricia | Nov 15, 2017 | Travel Junkie
This morning in Mafra, Portugal, it’s 44 F outside. The toasty Iberian sun will warm up things later, but the effects of La Niña promise to deliver a chilly winter in many places in North America and the North Atlantic. That may set some to thinking about a...