Author
Susan B. Barnes

Destination: Oklahoma City

In the middle of the U.S., and in the middle of Oklahoma, is Oklahoma City, a modern, urban metropolis with a population of 1.4 million that still holds onto its charm – it’s no wonder one of its nicknames is “The Big Friendly.” Oklahoma City is also experiencing a type of renaissance, with a new…

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Destination: Lake Tahoe

Straddling the state line between California and Nevada is Lake Tahoe, the largest alpine lake in North America. With its turquoise waters, blue bird skies and soaring mountains, travelers have been making their way here since the late-19th century. Today, visitors retreat from big cities to breathe…

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Destination: Playa del Carmen, Mexico

About an hour south of Cancun is Playa del Carmen, a tranquil Mexican oasis that boasts white sand beaches, turquoise waters and a relaxed boho vibe that’s palpable. Here, history, culture, nature, art, food and hospitality combine, transforming what was once a fishing village into one of the top…

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Destination: Ponte Vedra, Florida

On the outskirts of Saint Augustine and its 450-plus-year-history on Florida’s Historic Coast sits Ponte Vedra, where laid-back luxury and natural beauty meet. It’s here that Ponce de Leon landed more than 500 years ago in his search for the Foutain of Youth. Though the fountain has yet to yield…

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Destination: Tampa

Long in the shadows of its sister cities Miami and Orlando, Tampa has at long last emerged and is shining in Florida’s west coast sunshine. The city has transformed from one that rolled up its sidewalks at 5 o’clock to a vibrant, bustling “place to be,” especially with the development of Water…

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Destination: Fort Worth

What started as “Cowtown” during the Cattle Drive Era in the mid- to late-1800s has evolved into the bustling, vibrant city of Fort Worth, about 25 minutes southwest of the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. In addition to its downtown, Fort Worth is a city comprised of unique neighborhoods…

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Destination: Napa

Editor’s Note: This is an update to an article that published in February 2022. Napa Valley is known around the world for its award-winning wines, and its temperate weather and proximity to the San Francisco Bay area make it a popular destination year-round. There’s so much more to Napa in…

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Destination: Puerto Rico

Editor’s Note: This is an update to an article that published in November 2023. There is a palpable vibe in Puerto Rico know as boricua. Not only is it a name that honors the island’s heritage, but it’s a way of life, a state of mind, a rhythm and flavor that is distinctly Puerto Rico. From the…

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Incorporating Culture into the Wedding Menu

There are many factors that go into planning a wedding, from the date and location to guest list, flowers and the ceremony itself…and then there’s the reception. Whether planning a blow-out party or an intimate gathering, one thing couples can do to make the day their own is to work with a chef or…

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Destination: Lisbon, Portugal

Why Lisbon, Portugal The sun shines 290 days a year, and the temperature rarely dips below 60°F. Lisbon is the closest European capital to North America, just a five- to eight-hour flight. More than 50 destinations in Europe, the U.S., South America and Africa are a non-stop flight…

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