Salem, Mass – Everybody knows about Salem’s fascinating history, from the witch hysteria to the maritime trade. But today’s Salem is also a vibrant place. While updating the Lonely Planet content, I went in search of Salem, beyond Witch City.…
Charlestown
Charlestown, Massachusetts – Hard at work for Lonely Planet, I am hitting the Freedom Trail with all the tourists these days. Today it was the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution (site of another learning experience during the toddler…
Boston Public Library
Boston, Mass – An ode to the Boston Public Library. How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. (1) Want to feel smart? Spend some time in Bates Hall at the Boston Public Library. (2) The third floor…
Adventure awaits in Costa Rica national parks
Covering some 10% of Costa Rican territory, the country’s national parks protect a stunning array of landscapes – wetlands and forests, caves and volcanoes, and habitats for creatures galore. This is the country’s greatest natural resources, and it’s all yours…
Boston Triathlon
South Boston, Massachusetts – Back in January, I made a New Year’s resolution to complete a triathlon this year (as I used to do, in my life before twins). Daddio surprised me by enrolling me in an early season race…
Public Art on the Rose Kennedy Greenway
Boston, Mass – I am digging the public art on the Rose Kennedy Greenway this summer.
Yellow Submarine on the Big Screen
Somerville, Mass – To celebrate its 50th anniversary, Yellow Submarine is returning to the Big Screen! In the UK, this one day event happened at select theaters last week. In our neck of the woods, it’s happening all weekend long…
In Pursuit of Pura Vida
Pura vida. Pure life. You’ll hear the expression frequently throughout your visit to Costa Rica, as a sincere wish for your time in this natural wonderland. It’s a valediction, an affirmation and a state of mind, reflecting an appreciation for the awesomeness…
Palace Playland – 2
Old Orchard Beach, Maine – With great sadness, I learned of the end of the Galaxy Coaster at Palace Playland. This fabulous old-school roller coaster was a highlight of our last visit to the boardwalk amusement park. But now I…
Have sketchbook, will travel
Boston, Mass – We used to be regulars at the Museum of Fine Arts. You know, back when the twins didn’t go to school and I was always looking for things to do with them. (Read about some of our…