Ninety nine years ago, Explorers Club member William Douglas Burden mounted an expedition to the island of Komodo in the South Sunda Islands to research and obtain the first film footage of the island’s monstrous lizards. Douglas Burden was responsible for giving these huge monitor lizards the name Komodo dragon.

Just recently another Explorers Club member, George Burden (the author) followed up on his cousin’s journey with one of his own. The island had now become part of the Komodo National Park and rangers are able to take visitors on treks to see the creatures in their native environment. The number of visitors is closely monitored to protect the dragons and the park is closed periodically for this reason.

Komodo dragons will readily attack humans so it is important to stay close to rangers and listen to their instructions. In 1974 Swiss Baron Rudolf Reding von Biberegg didn’t listen… and disappeared on the island with nothing but his glasses, camera case and a bloody shoe ever found.

Like Douglas Burden, my wife also accompanied me to Komodo, but unlike the first Mrs. Burden, no Komodo dragons attacked her. We did not remain unscathed however as I suffered a small laceration on my right leg during the visit. More on this later.

The dragons range from little ones (if you consider a metre long to be small!) to  gargantuan 3 meter (ten foot long) male dragons like the one which attacked the first Mrs. Burden.  It was stopped in its tracks just short of its target by an alert guard.

The dragons are not the only attraction around Komodo. Visitors can skin dive in crystalline waters at Manta Point with massive manta rays, the gentle giants of the ray world. Reefs here are also amazing for the colourful array of tropical fish and coral, as well as sea turtles and the occasional shark. Despite my leg injury I didn’t want to miss out on this opportunity nor on a subsequent dive in a sea cave.

Okay, it is not smart to swim in salt water with skin wounds of any kind. One would think salt water would be helpful for wound healing, but a bacterium called Vibrio loves salt water and Vibrio vulnificus can go from causing a small amount of redness to killing you in as little as 48 hours. The condition is called necrotizing fasciitis or “flesh eating disease”.

My own wound began exhibiting these same features. There is not much medical care available on Komodo but I always carry a good supply of antibiotics when travelling. Starting amoxi-clav did not seem to make much difference to the rapidly expanding redness in my leg and this was disturbing as that antibiotic almost always works on these types of infection. Fearing something worse than a garden variety infection, I started a second antibiotic which targets Vibrio. Slowly the infection began to respond and so far my leg is still attached.

The moral of this story is don’t go into salt water with any kind of open skin wound. As a postscript make sure any open wound stays well covered in the tropics. The screwworm fly can lay eggs quickly in an open wound and the maggots will devour your living flesh quite happily until surgically removed!

A gallery of images from our trip. Click for larger images and to start a slide show.

Photo Credits

Manta photo by  Nathalie

All other photos by Stella van der Lugt

Seven Seas Grandeur in the Scottish Highlands

After an easy boarding process and champagne welcome on Regent’s newest ship, the 746 passenger Seven Seas Grandeur we, like many guests, headed for the buffet restaurant on deck 11 while passing and admiring some of the 300,000 pounds of polished marble, 503 chandeliers and the ship’s $6 million art collection including three Picassos and a unique Fabergé egg. Public spaces were stunning!

The marble floor leading to the Compass Rose main dining room

Le Veranda, the buffet restaurant, was surprisingly elegant. Every table had a white linen tablecloth with high end German made Schonwald dinnerware and quality Sambonet silver plate flatware. Not your ordinary cruise ship buffet setting! And the food was certainly not ordinary with an appetizing choice of several hot dishes including a prime rib carving station, freshly steamed vegetables and imaginative desserts. We were offered choices of complimentary wine, beer or cocktails, even tasty non-alcohol versions.

After lunch we unpacked, reviewed the safety video and admired our large 331 square foot balcony suite. It featured a king size bed with luxurious, high thread-count sheets, convenient lighting and power outlets with plenty of storage space and a walk-in closet. The bathroom had both a tub and separate shower with double sinks and convenient space for all our toiletries. We’d rate it as among the best cruise ship bathrooms we’ve ever seen. A heated floor would have made it perfect.

Our first meal on Grandeur, the buffet, showed us the high level of service from some of the 548 well-trained staff and the ship’s attention to detail. We were even more astonished as we headed for dinner at Compass Rose, the main dining room. With a simulated cascading waterfall at the entrance, the large, imaginative room resembled an enchanted forest of trees forming a canopy with dazzling jewels on their trunks. It was spectacular during the day but we were in awe as night approached and the sides of the room turned into an optical illusion of infinity.

The stunning main dining room, Compass Rose

The menu in Compass Rose was the most complete we’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. In addition to a wide choice of daily specials on the right side, the left side of the large menu had an “Always Available” list of more than a dozen favourites ranging from Black Angus Filet Mignon to whole Dover Sole with many sauces and choices of side dishes. One guest told us he ordered Lobster Tail every evening for dinner. The Rossini style tenderloin with seared foie gras we ordered was the best piece of beef we’ve enjoyed on any cruise.

Superb beef in Compass Rose

To our disappointment, the well-promoted guest celebrity chef, Christopher Gross, a James Beard Award winner, didn’t make an appearance until near the end of the cruise but it gave us a chance to sample Grandeur’s three specialty restaurants. But before trying them we passed the ship’s extensive library and headed to the bright and well-equipped Culinary Arts Kitchen on Deck 11 to meet its cheerful and knowledgeable Chief Instructor, Chef John Stephano of Philadelphia. His extra-cost classes ($US89) for 18 students are held each day, twice on sea days. “Because most of our guests are well travelled and sophisticated,” he told us, “my classes try to teach something new – a deep dive to the area, to the region.” He said he wants guests to understand the history of a cuisine. “If we can impart the richness and culture of the past, then guests have a better understanding of how the food affects their palate. Most people consume food. We want guests to taste it.”

A cooking class in the Culinary Arts Kitchen

Taste was our objective over the next few days as we tried the three complimentary specialty restaurants. Appropriately, the entrance to the Deck 5 Pacific Rim Asian restaurant had a full-size bronze Bonsai cherry tree with pink petals of Murano glass. We enjoyed several imaginative items from its extensive menu including Peking duck & watermelon salad, Canadian lobster tempura, pork and shrimp dim sum and flavourful miso black cod. Our optional chopsticks were put to good use. The other two specialty restaurants were close to each other on Deck 10. Typical of a good steakhouse, Prime 7 offered us large portions of high quality beef, pork, lamb and veal in addition to surf & turf or a whole lobster. Chartreuse evoked memories of a fine Parisian restaurant with appetizers of steak tartare & caviar and terrine de fois gras au sauternes topped with three rings (chef Gross later told us this was his favourite dish on the cruise). Entrée choices included fillet of halibut and seared Barbary duck breast. The complimentary wine was mostly from France.

A favourite dish: Terrine de foie gras au sauternes

The Connoisseur Wine Lunch, offered once per cruise, was another culinary highlight. The extra cost experience ($US169) consisted of five exquisite courses introduced by a senior chef paired with especially fine wines with commentary by a resident sommelier. Especially creative and tasty were the fois gras and black angus beef raviolo with black truffle foam and sesame-crusted cod filet with pumpkin risotto. The feast ended with a Callebaut chocolate lava cake accompanied by a 2014 Far Niente Dolce from the Napa Valley.

We arranged a tour of the sparkling clean, stainless steel galley and met Senior Executive Chef Dino Schwager. He told us that “Destination Dishes” in Compass Rose were an important part of this Spotlight on Cuisine cruise. He added that they try to reflect the region (Fish and Chips and Irish stew on separate evenings were typical) but if the ship can get fresh fish, he prefers it over a frozen product. That explained how Mahi Mahi, picked up fresh en route, turned up on the menu as a “Destination Dish”.

Guest chef Christopher Gross on stage

The guest chef, Christopher Gross, owner/chef at Christopher’s in Phoenix, finally got a chance to shine on the second last day of the cruise. On stage with overhead TV cameras focusing on the food, he carefully prepared a complex Parnassienne au Chocolate, a chocolate mousse tower covered by a dark chocolate lattice. It became a popular dessert feature at Compass Rose in the evening. Chef Gross was entertaining and very skilled but we, like many guests, were hoping he’d have even more culinary techniques and advice to share. He even told us he wished the ship had kept him busier.

Chef Gross’ decadent chocolate dessert

The cooking presentation was in the 750 seat Constellation Theatre, the main showplace on Seven Seas Grandeur. Taking up decks 4 and 5 at the front of the ship, the comfortable theatre featured lectures and other presentations during the day and entertainment each evening. We were very impressed by the seven-piece band that accompanied most acts. The showcase performances involved eight resident dancers and four singers with complex shows on three separate nights. The dancers were great, the singers less so. One solo act stood out. Nik Page, a veteran West End performer, had a range of four octaves and received standing ovations for his brilliant versions of hit songs from Les Misérables and Phantom of the Opera.

Lively production shows on three nights

Our return home was from Paris but the cruise ended in La Havre, France, close enough to the D Day beaches of Normandy for Regent to offer tours to the American and Canadian beaches. There were few Canadians on board but twelve of us joined an excellent guide to visit Juno Beach where 360 Canadian troops died in the June 6, 1944 D Day assault to liberate France. It was an emotional couple of hours, especially when we toured the adjacent Canadian war cemetery where hundreds of young men are buried.

We’re always sad when a cruise of this quality comes to an end. But with the marvelous cuisine on Seven Seas Grandeur and the well-organized tours to Scottish castles, battlefields, archaeological sites and distilleries, we did learn much more about the history and culture of this unique and rich area of our planet. Our one regret was that the chefs chose not to prepare and serve traditional haggis, Scotland’s national dish.

Photo Credits

All photos by Sandra and John Nowlan – All Rights Reserved

Fredericton’s thriving downtown, filled with bars and restaurants, includes world class cultural attractions like the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, known for its Canadian, British and International collections including Salvador Dali’s giant masterpiece, Santiago El Grande, as well as the centrally located Garrison Grounds, the 18^th century British army base, with its adjacent Fredericton Region Museum.

The Garrison Grounds in central Fredericton

The city is also rated as one of the most walkable in Canada with good restaurants, bakeries, cafes, bars and unique gift shops scattered along King and Queen streets. Surprisingly, it’s also very driveable. We rarely had a problem finding parking spots.

We recently spent three days in the city ranked by several out-of-province magazines and newspapers as among the top ten places to visit or live in Canada. Here are our highlights:

ACCOMMODATION. In the past we’ve stayed at several historic B&Bs. This time we went more modern with a fine room at the Delta Fredericton, located just north of downtown directly on the wide Saint John River. If you stay here, try to get a room overlooking the river. It’s spectacular. The hotel’s BBQ restaurant is also excellent.

MEALS. Fredericton has become a city of culinary treats with recent immigrants adding to the wide range of ethnic restaurants, most of which are located within walking distance downtown. Our first stop was at Momo Ramen & Izakaya on Queen Street with several authentic Japanese specialities. Our honey garlic chicken appetizer was outstanding with a delightful main dish of grilled chicken udon. The next day we went tropical with Trinidadian and Jamaican cuisine at Caribbean Flavas on York Street. The curry was very tasty and the jerk chicken was authentic although we thought that the chef could have used chicken thighs instead of drumsticks for better flavour. The city’s German and Mexican restaurants also receive high ratings.

With at least a dozen breweries in the city plus distilleries and cideries, Fredericton is now Atlantic Canada’s craft brewing capital. Several breweries include excellent pubs like the Gahan House on Queen Street. With great character as a former bank and terrific pub food, Gahan’s has become a favourite among the locals.

The Gahan House brewpub

As with most cities, pizza has become a ubiquitous treat and Fredericton has recently added Detroit style with the opening of Coastline Pizza at the corner of King and Westmoreland Streets. If you like a thick crust and generous servings this is a great spot for pizza. Just across from Coastline Pizza is First Light Distilling which offers creative mocktails to satisfy the growing trend towards non-alcohol drinks. It also includes Scout’s Original Sandwich Shop with homemade desserts.

Coastline thick crust Detroit style pizza. Broccoli on the left and Canadian on the right.

Fresh pastry lovers can enjoy traditional and unique creations at both Simon’s Bakery on Regent Street and Chess Piece on Queen, Fredericton’s first and only Parisian style patisserie.

Chess Piece, a Parisian style patisserie

Fredericton’s 75 year old downtown Boyce Farmers Market is a Saturday tradition with more than 250 indoor and outdoor vendors. It’s one of Canada’s Top 10 markets and features a great variety of cheese and fresh squeezed juices.

The busy Boyce Farmers Market

CULTURE AND HISTORY. The cultural gem of Fredericton is undoubtedly the Beaverbrook Art Gallery on Queen Street. Named for New Brunswick native and British publishing magnate Lord Beaverbrook (his empire included the Daily Express newspaper and during World War II he was Minister of Aircraft Production), the modern building has over 5300 works in its permanent collection and regularly hosts travelling exhibitions.

A birchbark canoe, almost 200 years old, in the Beaverbrook Art Gallery

Fredericton loves its live music. Each September the city hosts the annual six-day Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival (now known simply as the Harvest Music Festival). Now in its 35th year with 25 performance venues throughout the downtown it attracts top international and east coast talent.

On Queen Street, close to the centre of town, is Officers’ Square, considered to be the birthplace of the Canadian Army. Its buildings and Great Lawn were garrisoned by the British Army for over 80 years starting in 1785 and by the Canadian Army from 1883 to 1914. In warm months the area is used for concerts, live theatre and films. The former Officers’ Quarters now houses the Fredericton Region Museum, well worth a visit.

At the south edge of downtown stands the majestic Christ Church Cathedral, built between 1845 and 1853 and considered to be the first example of exacting Gothic Revival architecture in North America. It was declared a National Historic Site in 1983.

Shakespeare, 1960s style, in front of Christ Church Cathedral

On the Fredericton culture scene we have to give credit to the University of New Brunswick’s English department. Every year in early summer a professor organizes and directs an event called Bard in the Barracks, a pair of outdoor Shakespeare plays in downtown locations. We loved the performances of local talent in the rollicking comedy Merry Wives of Windsor, set by the director in the early 1960s with mafia influences. The clever set was built on the front lawn of the Christ Church Cathedral. This lesser known work alternated with Macbeth, performed in the Fredericton Botanic Garden.

QUIRKINESS. A quirky city is a fun city for both residents and visitors. Fredericton registers very high on the quirkiness scale. To wit:

• A stuffed 42 pound frog – The Coleman Frog – is on display at the Fredericton Region Museum. In 1885 it jumped into Fred Coleman’s canoe and quickly became a pet with a diet of buttermilk, whiskey and cornmeal. The giant amphibian died in 1899 and was preserved by a taxidermist.
  

  The 42 pound Coleman frog in the Fredericton Region Museum

• The same museum has a room dedicated to the work and sometimes questionable alien-visitor theories of Fredericton resident Stanton Friedman. Friedman was the original civilian investigator of the Roswell, New Mexico, UFO incident. He wrote many books and became known as the Flying Saucer Physicist.
  

  A museum room dedicated to Stanton Friedman, the Flying Saucer Physicist

• Perhaps coincidentally, the Flat Earth Society of Canada was founded in Fredericton.
• In 1882 Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde, dressed in velvet clothes with lacy cuffs, was booed and heckled in Fredericton while promoting Aestheticism, the philosophy of “art for art’s sake”. Apparently, it went against the dominant conservative Victorian sensibilities of the time.
• Three locally owned downtown shops are decidedly quirky. No velvet clothing at Happy Hatti but fashionably printed cotton designs using the centuries-old textile techniques of the owner’s native India. The Urban Almanac, a couple of blocks away brings an updated twist to the old-fashioned general store with a unique selection of antiques, sustainably resourced and hard-to-find vintage goods. The owner has added organic coffee roasting and Tasha Tea to the unusual mix. Nearby is Fresh Vintage, a store with curated antiques and modern design ideas. All three stores are great for browsing.
  

  The owner of Happy Hatti with some of her designs

• The city is filled with geeks. It’s a hub for cybersecurity with 70% of New Brunswick’s knowledge industry based in Fredericton. UNB has been graduating engineers since 1854.
• Canada’s first observatory was built in 1851 on the UNB campus.
• Fredericton was the first city in Canada to offer free, city-wide Wi-Fi.
• An old railway bridge, now used for walking and biking across the Saint John River, becomes an art gallery for a day. Art on the Bridge features scores of local art and artists using the girders to display and sell their works in a very unusual and colourful gallery.
  

  Art On The Bridge, a unique Fredericton gallery

• The annual New Brunswick Whisky Festival, now known as the Spirits Festival, is the oldest in Canada. Year-round, the Lunar Rogue Pub on King Street carries over 1,000 whisky (and whiskey) choices, making it one of the largest in the world.

For our final dinner in Fredericton we took a short side trip to the Village of Gagetown and a memorable meal at Gulliver’s World Café. The owner and chef, Thane Mallory, was trained at the prestigious Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France. In the off season he travels the world looking for creative culinary ideas and it shows in his imaginative cuisine.

Chef Thane Mallory of Gulliver’s in Gagetown

Gagetown is also worth a visit for its three ceramic studios and shops. The best known is Greig Pottery where you can watch the artist, Flo Greig, in her studio where she’s been working the wheel for 49 years. For Canadian history buffs, Gagetown is also the birthplace of Sir Samuel Leonard Tilley, one of the Fathers of Confederation. The house where Tilley was born and spent his boyhood is now a National Historic Site.

Gagetown potter Flo Greig in her workshop

Fredericton can be reached within a day’s drive from much of central Canada and New England. It’s worth the trip to see how a city, so small in size, can offer so much that’s unusual and unique.

A few more images from our trip. Click for full size images.

Photo Credits

All photos by Sandra and John Nowlan – All Rights Reserved

Here are a few places that shifted my view of Las Vegas – from a city of sensory overload to a place full of story, character, and unexpected soul.

A Moment of Stillness at the Neon Boneyard

Most people go to Fremont Street for the chaos – the lights, the crowds, the zipline that zips above it all. But just a few blocks away, I found something far more striking: the Neon Museum, also called the Neon Boneyard. It’s a quiet graveyard for the city’s most iconic signs, now retired and resting in peace.

Walking through it felt like time travel. Each rusted bulb and weathered letter held a story. It wasn’t loud or flashy. It was beautiful in its stillness. I found myself wondering about the people who walked under these signs decades ago – how they lived, what they hoped for when they arrived in Vegas.

A Family Table in the Middle of the Strip

On my third day, I wandered into a brunch spot that didn’t feel like Las Vegas at all. It was tucked between larger, shinier restaurants inside a resort I don’t even remember the name of. What I do remember is this: a family sitting across from me, three generations laughing over pancakes.

They reminded me that people don’t just visit Vegas for bachelor parties or jackpots. They come here to reconnect. That morning, over my own plate of waffles and coffee, I reflected on how travel isn’t always about going far, it’s about seeing things differently, even if you’re just passing through.

Desert Breath at Red Rock Canyon

Only a 30-minute drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon felt like a different planet. No bells. No ringing slot machines. Just quiet trails and the kind of silence that settles into your bones.

I hiked for an hour and saw only three other people. The land had a sacredness to it, a reminder that Las Vegas wasn’t always neon and concrete. Before the hotels and highways, this was land walked on by people with no interest in blackjack. I felt small, and I loved it.

Finding Joy in the Unexpected

One evening, while waiting for a table at a downtown restaurant, I wandered into a place that looked like a bar but felt like a rec room. It turned out to be a tech-driven golf entertainment venue at Atomic Golf, full of families, groups of friends, and even a few solo players just there to unwind.

There was music, laughter, and plenty of missed swings but what caught my attention was how multigenerational the crowd was. It wasn’t “touristy.” It was joyful. Sometimes, joy is found where you least expect it.

The Strip – But at Sunrise

On my last morning in Las Vegas, I woke up before the sun. I walked the length of the Strip while the city was still asleep or just going to bed. The lights were still on, but the streets were empty. It was eerie, but also strangely peaceful.

That morning, I saw the city not as a caricature of itself, but as a place that breathes. A place full of contradictions, loud but tender, over-the-top but deeply human.

Final Thoughts

Las Vegas surprised me not because it was different from what I imagined, but because it was more. More layered, more real. It’s easy to write it off as a city of vice and spectacle, but look a little closer, wander a little slower, and you’ll see something deeper.

That’s the beauty of travel. Sometimes the most human experiences are hidden in the places we least expect to find them.

Photo Credits

First image by Grant Cai at unsplash

Second image from Atomic Golf

Guest Author Bio
Bebelyn Panerio 

Bebelyn is a curious traveler and storyteller who believes the best parts of a journey are often the ones you don’t plan. When not exploring cities with a notebook in hand, She can be found enjoying brunch, people-watching, or finding quiet in unexpected places. This is her first contribution to Life As A Human.

Travel is the full package—the magical highs, the chaotic lows, and the stories that make you feel alive. Knowing that both exist (and that one makes the other sweeter) is what separates the seasoned traveller from the stressed-out tourist.

The Highs: Why We Keep Coming Back for More

1. The Unmatched Sense of Freedom

No alarms. No inbox full of emails. Just you, a new city, and a whole day to shape however you want. Maybe you’ll wander down cobbled streets with no destination. Maybe you’ll take a train just because the name of the town sounds cool. There’s nothing quite like the rush of realizing you have no obligations except to yourself.

2. The People You Meet

Something wild happens when you travel. Strangers become friends faster than they ever could back home. You swap stories with an old man on a park bench, and suddenly, you’re invited to a family dinner. A barista scribbles a local’s-only café on your napkin, and now you’re having coffee in a place that doesn’t even have a menu. The best travel memories? They’re almost always about people.

3. The Unexpected Magic

The best things never make it onto the itinerary. You take a wrong turn and stumble into a street festival. You get caught in the rain, and someone hands you an umbrella like it’s the most normal thing in the world. You sit down in a tiny restaurant, and the meal changes your life. These moments don’t ask for permission; they just happen, and they’re everything.

The Lows: The Reality of Travel

1. The Chaos and Frustrations

Nothing will test your patience quite like a delayed flight that turns into a cancelled flight. Or standing at baggage claim, watching the carousel spin while your suitcase remains MIA. Unexpected car trouble. Or discovering that “beachfront” means “you can see the ocean if you lean out the window at the perfect angle.” Travel isn’t just about embracing the unknown—it’s about embracing the unexpected inconveniences, too.

2. The Overwhelm

Too many places to see. Too many trains to catch. Too many signs in a language you don’t understand. Sometimes, the excitement tips into exhaustion, and all you want is a quiet corner where no one expects you to know what you’re doing. Give yourself permission to stop. Skip the museum. Sit in a café for three hours. Nobody’s handing out prizes for the most activities crammed into a day.

3. The Logistics Nightmare

You packed light—until you realized you still have to drag that bag over cobblestone streets, up three flights of stairs, and onto a train that only stops for thirty seconds. Then there’s the dreaded layover with nowhere to stash your stuff. Luckily, luggage storage exists, giving you a break from the weight—literally—so you can explore without feeling like a pack mule.

How to Minimize the Lows

• Plan, but leave space for surprises. The best moments aren’t scheduled.
• Give yourself breathing room. Travel days are exhausting. Build in time to do nothing.
• Take care of yourself. No one enjoys a once-in-a-lifetime trip when they’re dehydrated, sleep-deprived, and running on vending machine snacks.
• Expect the hiccups. Some of your best stories will start with “Everything went wrong, but then…”

Embracing the Whole Experience

Years from now, you won’t remember the airport delays or the hotel that smelled weird. You’ll remember the morning light in a city that once felt foreign but now feels like a second home. You’ll remember the unexpected kindness, the laughter with strangers, the way you changed without realizing it. That’s travel. It’s messy, exhilarating, and completely worth it.

Photo Credit

Photo is from Pexels

Conduct a Thorough Vehicle Inspection

A well-maintained car minimizes the risk of breakdowns and unexpected setbacks. Before setting off, perform a comprehensive check to ensure your vehicle is in peak condition.

Check Your Fluids

Fluids are critical to your car’s performance. Before you hit the road, check and refill these essential fluids:

• Engine oil – Top off the oil or get an oil change if you’re nearing the recommended interval.
• Coolant – Ensure the coolant level is adequate to prevent overheating.
• Transmission fluid – Smooth gear shifts depend on proper transmission fluid levels.
• Brake fluid – Make sure your braking system is responsive and in optimal condition.
• Windshield washer fluid – Keep your windshield clear for maximum visibility.

Inspect Your Tires

Tires play a significant role in safety and fuel efficiency. Check the following:

• Tread depth – Ensure your tires have sufficient tread to maintain traction, especially in wet conditions.
• Tire pressure – Inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI to prevent uneven wear.
• Spare tire condition – Verify that your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated.

Test Your Battery

A failing battery can leave you stranded. If your battery is over three years old, get it tested at an auto shop. Clean any corrosion from the terminals and ensure secure connections.

Pack Smart for Your Journey

Packing efficiently helps you stay organized while keeping your vehicle clutter-free.

Roadside Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is a must-have for any long trip. Pack the following essentials:

• Jumper cables
• A tire repair kit or a fully inflated spare tire
• A flashlight with extra batteries
• A well-stocked first aid kit
• Basic tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers)
• Road flares or reflective warning triangles

Comfort and Convenience Items

Long hours on the road can be tiring, so pack items that enhance your comfort:

• Travel pillows and blankets
• Reusable water bottles to stay hydrated
• Healthy, non-perishable snacks
• Sunglasses for glare protection
• Phone charger and power bank

Packing for a Road Trip

When packing for a road trip, keep things organized and accessible. Use packing cubes for clothes, designate a container for snacks, and keep important documents (license, registration, insurance) within easy reach. If you’re camping or heading into remote areas, bring a cooler, extra fuel, and portable cooking equipment.

Plan Your Route and Stops

A well-planned route minimizes stress and enhances the overall experience.

Use Navigation Apps

Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze offer real-time traffic updates and alternative routes. Download offline maps in case you lose cell service in remote areas.

Identify Rest Stops

Driving for long periods can be exhausting. Plan to stop every two to three hours to stretch, refuel, and recharge. Look for scenic rest areas or local attractions to make your trip more enjoyable.

Know Your Gas Stations

Cross-country routes often include long stretches without gas stations. Map out fuel stops in advance and aim to keep your tank at least half full to avoid running out of gas in a remote area.

Prepare for Different Weather Conditions

Weather can be unpredictable, so preparing for various conditions ensures a safer trip.

Check the Forecast

Review the weather forecast for your entire route before you depart. If hazardous conditions are expected, adjust your plans accordingly.

Pack for Weather Variations

• Cold climates – Bring extra blankets, gloves, and an ice scraper.
• Hot regions – Pack sunscreen, additional water, and a windshield sunshade.
• Rainy conditions – Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition and carry a lightweight raincoat.

Ensure Connectivity and Entertainment

Staying connected and entertained makes the journey more enjoyable.

Set Up Hands-Free Communication

Use a Bluetooth-enabled system or a phone mount to make hands-free calls safely while driving.

Download Playlists and Podcasts

Curate a road trip playlist or download audio-books and podcasts to stay entertained during long stretches of driving.

Prepare for Dead Zones

Not all areas have strong mobile network coverage. Carry a printed map as a backup and share your route with a friend or family member in case of emergencies.

Stay Safe on the Road

Prioritizing safety ensures a worry-free journey.

Follow Safe Driving Practices

• Obey speed limits and traffic laws.
• Avoid distractions such as texting while driving.
• If travelling with others, take turns driving to prevent fatigue.
• Never drive when drowsy—pull over to rest if needed.

Have a Backup Plan

Unforeseen situations can arise, so have a contingency plan in place. Save roadside assistance contacts and familiarize yourself with nearby service stations along your route.

By taking the time to properly prepare your car for a cross-country adventure, you can ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free journey. Safe travels!

Photo Credits

First Photo by Alfonso Escalante on Pexels

Second Photo by paje victoria on Unsplash

Guest Author Bio
Maia Gruger

Maia Gruger is a lifestyle writer who explores creativity, inspiration, and ways to enrich everyday life. She brings fresh perspectives and thoughtful insights to her work, engaging readers with compelling and relatable content.

Captain Mike

Our main goal for a week-long road trip from Orlando to the northeast coast of Florida was to explore the fascinating history and culture of the area as well as sampling the cuisine, especially seafood for which the state is justly famous.

We found that renting a car at Orlando airport was relatively easy with no shuttle required to reach the rental lot. Unfortunately, printed road maps are no longer available at check-in so an effective GPS is a necessity, especially with Orlando’s heavy traffic and complex highway system.

Our tour included hotels and a B&B while visiting Orlando, St. Augustine and Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island. All three communities love to share their rich history and vibrant culture with guests like us. Here are some of the attractions we particularly enjoyed:

ORLANDO

• Winter Garden, a small city (pop 48,000) that’s part of greater Orlando, has a charming downtown filled with small, unique boutiques (no chain stores in sight) and a welcoming vibe we found very attractive. Two no-charge museums stand out. The Winter Garden Heritage Museum has a well maintained caboose out front and an interior focused on the community’s native and African American heritage as well as the rise and fall of the citrus industry. Dozens of labels from former orange producers fill the walls. Winter Garden was also a significant railway centre served by both the Atlantic Coast Line and Seaboard Coast Line. The Central Florida Railway Museum honours those past years with photos, models and railway memorabilia. Knowledgeable volunteers like Bill Puckett are delighted to discuss their passion for railroading.
  

  Railroad enthusiast Bill Puckett in the Central Florida Railway Museum

• The SOBO Art Gallery and Studio (named for its location on South Boyd Street), features excellent local art for sale and monthly art exhibits. In a back room, aspiring artists have classes and workshops.
• Since 2014 downtown Orlando has included the magnificent Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. The venue includes both 2700-seat and 1700-seat theatres. We were fortunate to be able to attend a more intimate concert by a local neo-soul, rhythm and blues band in the Judson’s Live auditorium with table settings for just 150 guests and a menu of exotic cocktails and small, creative plates.
  

  Soulful entertainment at Judson’s Live

ST. AUGUSTINE

• St. Augustine, founded by the Spanish in 1565, is the oldest continuously inhabited European established settlement in the United States. The city core is very walkable but we found the best way to absorb and appreciate its remarkable history is with the 90 minute, 22 stop, Hop-on, Hop-off narrated Trolley Tour.
• Several attractions on the Trolley Tour stood out for us. Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the United States. The Spanish started construction in 1672 to defend Florida and protect the Atlantic trade route. It is remarkably well preserved.
  

  Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine

  Also well preserved is the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the United States where an animatronic teacher and “Dunce” student provide humourous commentary. Two former luxury hotels in St. Augustine were built in the Spanish Renaissance Revival style by oil and railway magnate Henry Flagler and were among the first buildings in the world to use poured concrete. Hotel Alcazar, built in 1887, is now the Lightner Museum, housing a grand collection of Gilded Age antiques. The 1888 Ponce de Leon Hotel is now the 2500 student, Flagler College. Design of its glorious interior was headed by Louis Tiffany. The woodwork, gold gilding and stained glass windows are stunning. In fact the college has the largest private collection of Tiffany stained glass in North America. It’s insured for more than 100 million dollars.

  

  The oldest wooden schoolhouse in the U.S.

• Our final stop in St. Augustine was among the most moving. The three-story Ximenez-Fatio House, built in 1798, was a boarding house for many years during the American slave era. An hour long tour includes talented, costumed actors performing short scenes that relive those dark days. A vivid eye-opener.
  

  Slave era drama at Ximenez Fatio House

AMELIA ISLAND

• A happy surprise for us was our far-from-ordinary Bed & Breakfast accommodation in the historic district of Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island, close to the border with Georgia. Fairbanks House is a glorious 8,000 square foot Italianate villa built in 1885 at the height of Fernandina’s Golden Era. The upscale neighbourhood has dozens of other stunning homes built in the late 1800s in Victorian or Classical Revival style. The city has published a complimentary pamphlet showcasing many of them.
  

  Fairbanks House, historic Amelia Island B&B

• Like many visitors we took the Cumberland Coastal Tour (Amelia River Cruises), sailing between Florida and Georgia along the shorelines of Amelia and Cumberland Islands. Wildlife sightings included playful dolphins and Cumberland wild horses. Several colourful shrimp boats are tied to docks on this pristine island but, sadly, the mood is broken by a huge, steaming shoreside pulp mill.
• For a small city (population, 14,000) Fernandina Beach has an excellent Museum of History in a former jail and a well-preserved Civil War era coastal garrison called Fort Clinch. The fort promotes living history and we enjoyed interacting with a knowledgeable gentleman in period costume.
  

  Fort Clinch on Amelia Island

CUISINE

We love fresh seafood so we were looking forward to stuffing ourselves with Florida’s famous shrimp and local fish like grouper, mahi-mahi and pompano. Large (often too large) portions are common in Florida restaurants but we were usually impressed with the quality of our meals:

• Our excellent Orlando accommodation (The Terraces at The Grove) had a dinner restaurant, Valencia, more like an aging Denny’s but its breakfast had outstanding coffee and a good choice of standard fare. Plant Street Market in Winter Garden is an indoor artisan venue featuring the Crooked Can Brewery and 20 local vendors serving wonderful natural, organic food. We enjoyed a delicious lunch with Bento Sushi and BBQ pork and beef. At the Judson’s Live venue in downtown Orlando (mentioned earlier), creative small plates prevailed.
  

  Crooked Can Brewery and the Plant Street Market. Local, ethnic food vendors.

• Two shrimp dishes stood out in St. Augustine. Our best large shrimps came from the Salt Life Food Shack. They were served on skewers with glazed pineapple and pineapple fried rice. O.C. White’s Seafood Restaurant combines history (it’s located in the Worth House, circa 1790) with excellent cuisine. Its blackened shrimp and grits with cheese, bacon, and green onions was a hit with both of us. The Columbia Restaurant is a huge Spanish/Cuban eatery holding 700 guests. It’s usually full but service is very efficient and the food, especially our fresh grouper topped with local blue crab, was succulent. Being in Florida we expected fresh salads and two restaurants delivered. La Cocino, part of the San Sebastian Winery, had an excellent winter salad with roasted squash, cucumber curls, and local red datil peppers. The Ice House, a tall, spacious converted 1927 ice storage warehouse, now a popular farm to table restaurant, served our best arugula and kale salad with apple, fennel, hazelnuts, and pomegranate. A creative chef!

   

• Florida’s lucrative shrimp industry had its beginnings in Fernandina Beach on Amelia Island in the early 1900s. As expected, even its fried fish take-out was extraordinary. Our golden basket at Timoti’s included deep fried shrimp, fries, hush puppies, and a giant fish sandwich. At The Salty Pelican, a busy waterfront restaurant and sports bar, we enjoyed its signature dish, blue crab dip. We could also choose among Shrimp & Oysters, a pound or half pound of local ‘peel ‘n eat’ shrimp, or fried gator bits. We can’t talk about food on Amelia Island without mentioning the breakfast at our historic B&B, Fairbanks House. The full breakfast, served with real silverware and nice china, included juice, fresh blueberries with sweet cream, blackberry waffles with chicken sausage and banana bread. A wonderful ending to a week of outstanding hospitality.
  

  Locals love their seafood take-out. Shrimp and fish at Timoti’s

Sadly, there is now some tension in U.S.-Canada relations because of the tariff threats and talk of Canada becoming the “51^st State”. Florida tourism officials we met were very concerned about a drop off in Canadian tourists. Hopefully relations can soon return to their normal friendly state.

A few more images from our trip. Click for full size images.

Photo Credits

All photos by Sandra and John Nowlan – All Rights Reserved

In our case it was the latter.

Stella and I go to the Netherlands regularly, to visit her family (which is only natural as she is a Dutch national). During our recent stay we ventured a bit afield from the land of windmills and wooden shoes…and decided to stop by Monaco, one of the small European countries that we had not yet visited. Of course I wore my racing shirt (as my step-daughter was a prize-winning BMW racer in Holland, this was pre-requisite) and pulled into Monaco on May 24th. As we approached via southern France, I idly wondered when the Grand Prix was going to be held this year. As we entered town a large sign informed us that it was this weekend! Too late to turn back. As we entered town Stella noticed an underground parking garage. The third spot on the right was empty. Sensing a trap we made sure there were no reserved signs or not parking notifications. We had immediately scored a parking spot in the centre of the city (more dumb luck) and exited our car to start our tour of Monte Carlo on Grand Prix weekend.

So much for the planning phase of this stopover. We headed down through a lovely tropical garden, “Jardin de la Petite Afrique”, towards the Casino Square and had a chance to admire the customized Formula 1 race cars displayed within the elegant Casino of Monte Carlo. The course was all laid out for Sunday’s competition but it being a Friday evening we were able to pace out the track while admiring the sights of this tiny country. The nearby Fairmont Hotel has a hairpin curve named for it and guests in the right rooms could watch the race from their balconies. We stood in front of the hotel and saw more red Ferrari’s than I thought existed on the planet, trying out the track.

Continuing our walk we ambled farther down to the Mediterranean where we were able admire the huge super-yachts moored in the harbour for the event. Across the water lay the posh hilltop palace of the Albert II, the current Prince of Monaco. We all know the fairy tale story of how Prince Rainier III of Monaco married American actress, Grace Kelly. Albert was their only son.

Strewn around the town centre, like the scattered toy cars of a spoiled little boy, were Ferrari’s, Rolls Royce’s, Lamborghini’s, Bentley’s and myriads of other cars for the wealthy. I idly wondered what I could purchase with my life’s savings, a thought quickly quashed by my sensible wife

A bit further on we came across the Tag Heuer store, a shop dedicated to the high end Swiss watch brand most favoured by car racers. The manager showed us a watch specially made for this race and available only from that specific store in a limited edition of 50 timepieces. At almost 20 k USD each it was becoming abundantly clear why Monaco was a haven mostly for the ultra-wealthy.

Of course there wasn’t a hotel room to be had in town but before we headed back on the road late that evening we decided to splurge big and dine at the historic “Cafe de Paris”. We didn’t have reservations but the solicitous maitre d’ escorted us to a choice table. I had noticed a few people taking my picture earlier and wondered why. The only thing we can figure is the shirt made me look like I was part of a race team which probably explains how we got the restaurant table.

Since one picture is worth a thousand words, I will leave the excellent photos taken by my wife, Stella, to fill out our adventure. However I will add one more detail. That evening we had to drive half way across Italy to find a hotel room as everything was booked for the Grand Prix for 200 miles around. Well after dark we pulled into a seaside town and after a bit of begging, scored the last room in the hotel. I think the night clerk took pity on us.

I will just end with the old saying: “Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.”

Click images for large sizes and to start a slide show.

Don’t be like us and rely on dumb luck to visit Monte Carlo on Grand Prix weekend. Plan well in advance (see link below)… or not.

Visit Monaco

Photo Credits

All photos by Stella van der Lugt

It’s easy to get caught off guard by unexpected expenses or hidden fees if you’re not fully aware of how things work in your new country. Making sure your finances stay on track is key to enjoying your time in a new country. Budgeting and saving become even more important when you’re dealing with unfamiliar costs and money habits. In this article, we will go over some tips to help you save money and keep your finances in order as an expat.

Shopping at local markets instead of big supermarkets can save you quite a bit, especially when it comes to fresh fruits and vegetables.

1 – Understand the costs

Before you move to a new country, it’s important to get a good idea of how much things cost there. Everyday expenses like food, rent, and transportation can be very different from what you’re used to. What was affordable back home might be much more expensive in your new location, or it could be the other way around.

This is why it’s smart to do some research before you go. Check out the prices for things like housing, groceries, and other daily needs. You can find a lot of helpful information online through cost of living calculators or by talking to other expats in forums.

The cost of living might be influenced by things like inflation, local wages, and the general economy. For example, eating out could be a regular, affordable option in your new home, even if it wasn’t back where you came from. Some things, like foreign health insurance, might save you money in the long run if you get sick or have a medical emergency, but still have to be budgeted for.

2 – Find the right housing situation

Finding a place to live is one of the most important choices you’ll make as an expat, and it can really affect your budget. Choosing your housing wisely is one of the biggest factors when you are trying to save money.

Some neighborhoods might have cheaper rent but require long commutes, which can cost you both time and money. Other areas might be closer to work or public transportation, saving you on daily travel, but they might come with higher rent. It’s all about finding a balance that works for you without breaking the bank.

When you’ve found a place you like, don’t be afraid to negotiate the rent. In many places, landlords might be willing to lower the price, especially if you’re planning to stay for a while. It’s also smart to ask what’s included in the rent, like utilities or internet, because those can add up if they’re not covered.

If you want to save even more, think about sharing a place with others. Renting a room in a shared house or apartment can really cut down on your housing costs. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people, which can be a big help if you’re new to the country and looking to make friends.

3 – Have a food budget

When you’re living in a new country, figuring out how to save money on food and groceries can be a bit challenging, but it’s also one of the easiest places to cut costs. Start by getting to know the local markets and shops. Shopping at local markets instead of big supermarkets can save you quite a bit, especially when it comes to fresh fruits and vegetables. Local foods are usually cheaper and fresher than imported ones, and you might even find some new ingredients you really like.

Cooking at home is another simple way to save money. It’s easy to get tempted by all the new restaurants and cafes around, but eating out regularly can quickly drain your wallet. Try planning your meals for the week and only buying what you need to avoid wasting food and money.

It’s also a good idea to try out the local cuisine. Often, the ingredients for traditional dishes in your new country are more affordable than sticking to the foods you’re used to back home. Learning to cook some local dishes can save you money and help you feel more connected to your new home. Plus, it’s a fun way to try new flavors and recipes.

Conclusion

Managing your finances as an expat can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can save money and make the most of your time abroad. The key is to be flexible and open to adapting your habits to fit your new environment. With a little planning and some smart choices, you can enjoy your life abroad while keeping your finances in check.

Photo Credit

Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Guest Author Bio
John Moran

John Moran is an American who enjoys the fine art of living well. His interests include anything wine, food or nature related especially when enjoyed with friends and family.

CERN is a French acronym for the European Organization for Nuclear research, and it is most well known for its 23 kilometre (about 14 miles) long particle accelerator, the largest in the world, which is buried 100 meters underground. Unless you are one of the lucky few you won’t actually see the device, but CERN has kindly provided an amazing opportunity to explore the world of quantum physics in unique and fun way. The visible structures are impressive enough with the first thing most visitors see being the Globe of Science and Innovation. Designed for the Swiss National Exhibition, Expo ’02 it is now located at front of CERN. The Globe, which is composed of five different types of timber and acts as a natural carbon sink, has absolutely nothing specifically to do with physics but looks really cool parked in front of the facility.

The Globe of Science and Innovation

As a fitting metaphor for the quantum concept of “existing in two states,” the CERN is located partly in France as well as Switzerland. CERN’s many interactive displays are geared to both students and adults who can challenge themselves to various simulations of tasks required to run the LHC. They are housed in tubular buildings which mimic the structure of the LHC.

One particularly fun activity requires participants to coordinate magnetic fields to accelerate a metal ball the same way the LHC accelerates particles. My favourite, however, was the half hour immersive electron experience. To start with, an image was scanned of me in two different positions. I then found myself progressing through a colourful maze interacting with a virtual world that shows what it’s like to exist at the subatomic level. Electrons exist in two states, particle and energy, so the experience was to say the least both strange and exhilarating. A photo or two will illustrate this far better than I can describe.

For those of you who think Marvel invented the multiverse, I am afraid I have some bad news.  Quantum physics predicted the presence of multiple parallel universes decades ago.  In fact it is one of the only reasons that explains why quantum physics actually works. If all this weirdness scrambles your brain a bit and you are in need of refreshment at the end of your visit, go to CERN’s “Big Bang Cafe” for a drink or a snack.

For more information on a visit to CERN, click here: https://home.cern/

Or ask Sheldon Cooper…

A Gallery of the CERN visit
Click images to expand and start a slide show

Photo Credits

All photos by Stella van der Lugt