Volume 3, Issue #11 - August 2010

By Ifang HsiehTourists visit Shanghai because it is historical and modern, oriental and westernized, a strange yet exhilarating must-see destination. The best locations to observe and relish these multi-faceted qualities, to one’s surprise, are Shanghai’s fine gardens, found in both the urban and suburban districts. In ancient China, artists and literati created … [Read more...] about Shanghai’s Fine Gardens

By Bob KelleyITWPA MemberLong before Jack, Rose and the Heart of the Ocean sailed into movie legend, I was a bona fide “Titaniac.” Planning my second visit to Ireland, I wanted to do more than kiss the Blarney Stone again and visit ancient ruins. I was determined to check out Queenstown, the fabled ship’s last port of call. With no sign of Queenstown on my … [Read more...] about Cobh, Ireland: On the Titanic Trail

By Kristin FaulkIt’s Saturday morning and it’s cloudy and damp with a slight mist hanging in the air. I find myself traveling south of downtown Dallas, along Interstate 45, with Ennis, Texas as my destination. Why? Simple really. Ennis’ atmosphere is reminiscent of a little country town, population 16,045, with a down home feeling. Bluebonnet gazing, a popular … [Read more...] about Ennis, Texas Bluebonnet Festival

By Jerry LustigWhether you’ve been there before or you’re planning a first-time trip to Las Vegas, don’t spend all your time in the casinos. There’s so much more to see and do, especially in the summer when the days are longer and the weather is warmer. Take a day to explore Red Rock Canyon. Just 17 miles west of downtown, off Charleston Boulevard, lies … [Read more...] about Red Rock Canyon

By Diana RusslerITWPA MemberHidden in the middle of the Italian Alps not far from the Swiss border is the lush Valchiavenna valley where a tradition of hearty food is the perfect antidote to a long day of outside activity.Chiavenna, the main town on an ancient north-south trade route, is riddled with numerous natural caves and underground passages formed millions of years ago … [Read more...] about Crotto Ombra: A Chiavenna Cave Restaurant