For years I’ve heard that there’s lots of positive change happening in Harlem. My visit was sparked by learning about the Harlem Art Crawl and a desire to go to the iconic Sylvia’s.

Sylvia’ Restaurant
Sylvia's is the only original Harlem soul food restaurant still in business. Despite its large size, Sylvia’s is warm, cozy and full of hospitality.

My table faced where the food was arriving from the kitchen. I saw what was ordered and saw how briskly the wait staff got the piping hot dishes...

Chuang Yen Monastery
An Adventure in Mindfulness

During my travels I’ve visited monasteries, but none close to home. Today I changed that by a visit to Chuang Yen Monastery located in Carmel, NY.

It was an opportunity to view the largest Buddha statue in the Western world, learn about meditation and mindfulness, all the beauty and treasures inside the buildings and throughout the property.

It was an immersion in Asian culture, from spiritual, historical and naturalistic perspectives.

It...

 How do I pack for a solo trip? I shared my approach for packing light for a two week trip during Traveling Solo 101 at Stratford High School on Oct 22, 2014,

I invited attendees to feel the weight and see what I take in carryon and checked luggage. All items are rolled or stored in ziplock bags for easy access and compactness,

Great packing is a repetitive process - put in what you think you need, close the luggage, lift it and say, do “I really want to lug that around? Can I live without...

Sometimes the design of a trip happens organically.  This was the case of my fall foliage drive along the Merritt Parkway when I exited at Hamden, CT.

At the end of the exit ramp was a sign with an arrow to West Rock Ridge Park.  I had no knowledge about the park, but instantaneously decided to visit.

I landed in a parking area for Wintergreen Lake. It was absolutely stunning and had beautiful walking trails.

While I was there, I asked a fisherman what else I should see in the area. He...