Why must you be so cautious in these three countries? (From The Street by Eric Reed) Number 2: Many Americans don't realize that Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country. Although this nation is a clash of peoples, including large populations of ethnically Indian and Chinese, Muslim Malay makes up the dominant culture. The result is that this popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia doesn't quite have the anything goes attitude of its neighbors to the north. In most places (aside from special exception zones like Penang and Kuala Lumpur), alcohol is highly taxed and somewhat difficult to get. Publicly advocating for religions other than Islam is banned (so be careful about wearing that crucifix) as is open homosexuality. Most interesting, though, is the country's attitude toward souvenirs. Taking home any flora or fauna without permission is ... read more

Save all to OneDrive - Personal These are on everyone's list. I have been to each of these, or very near in many cases. Atacama Desert, Chile When url=https://www.theactivetimes.com/travel/world/10-locations-your-favorite-movies-you-can-visit-real-lifeHollywood needs footage from Mars, they film in this ethereal landscape stretching some 600 miles across Chile. With less than one inch of average annual rainfall, it’s the driest non-polar place on the planet. Certain regions in the Atacama are so inhospitable not even a plant or insect can be found. Surprisingly, url=https://www.theactivetimes.com/adventure/expeditions/where-atacama-desert-an... read more

How many of you know how to pronounce victuals? I know you former English and literature instructors know the answer. It is pronounced vittles. And we plan to try many of the local victuals in the San Diego area, starting with Mexican food. Proximity to the border and to the Pacific Ocean makes San Diego an ideal place for eaters. After watching Andrew Zimmern of "Delicious Destinations", and having visited a similar shop in Mexico City, our first stop is Lucha Libre Tacos. This is from their website: Our gourmet tacos are made with the freshest ingredients, and we are proud to have been voted Best Burrito in town. Only at Lucha Libre you can get the famous “TJ” dog: an all beef hot dog wrapped in bacon and topped with grilled vegetables. We do not ... read more

I usually stay away from danger, at least obvious danger. For instance, I would like to visit Turkey this fall, but everyone, including the US State Department, says to stay away. But these countries and places below are rather surprising to me, since I have been there. Thailand (southern) Yes, the south of Thailand is known to harbor terrorists, with a large Muslim population. Well, we have terrorists in San Bernardino too. I have been to Thailand about 6 or 8 times, and have always felt welcomed and safe. The Thai people are friendly and know how important the American tourist is to their economy. Bangkok makes the ideal base for travel throughout SE Asia. South Africa Thanks to Barry the V, and Mrs. V, we had a great two weeks in Cape Town. However, we ... read more

I have experienced the good fortune to visit all fifty of our states. Some were great, some not, some in between. But here is something memorable from each one, just off the top of my head. Alabama 0 Alaska-the Aurora borealis, of course! Arizona-Antelope Canyon, Sedona, Spring Training, Los Sombreros, Café Elote, and the Grand Canyon Arkansas-Slick Willie California-Napa Valley, Carmel, San Diego, Tahoe, Pebble Beach, Disneyland, Yosemite, the beach, the wine, home Colorado-Aspen, Red Rocks, Continental Divide, Boulder, ski trips, Coors Field Connecticut-Yale DC-Newseum, Ten Penh, cherry blossoms, National Gallery, Capitol Fourth, National Symphony Delaware-what did? Florida-Everglades, Key West, Little Havana, stone crabs, cigars Georgia-the Masters, Merri Macs Tea Room, the Varsity Hawaii-Loco moco, dear friends, golf, Sam Sato's, Kintaro, ... read more