Latest Travel Stories and Insights

Discover the Best of Italy with David McGuffin

I've been traveling in Italy for the last few weeks and recently encountered a fellow who said he was touring Italy, too. We struck up a conversation and come to find out, he was on a big bus group tour and was visiting Rome today. This fellow was worn out, hot and...

Experience Laid-Back Tuscany: My Villa Vacation Adventure

There’s something magical about slowing down in Tuscany. After years of crisscrossing Europe at a whirlwind pace, I’ve found that the best memories are often made when you simply let Italy happen around you. This week, I am trading the busy multi-country itineraries...

Christmas Celebrations are so much different in Europe!

Christmas Market Memories Sixteen years ago, I visited my very first Christmas market in Strasbourg, France. The air was crisp, the scent of mulled wine and roasted nuts drifted through the cobblestone streets, and everywhere I turned, locals were celebrating...

TOUR EXPO 2025 – EXPLORING BEYOND EUROPE – BEST McGUFFIN TOUR MEMORIES – SICILY – VILLA VACATION GIVE-A-WAY

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Central Europe and Greece

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Italy

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – EXPLORING BEYOND EUROPE  – BEST McGUFFIN TOUR MEMORIES – SICILY – VILLA VACATION GIVE-A-WAY

TOUR EXPO 2025 – EXPLORING BEYOND EUROPE – BEST McGUFFIN TOUR MEMORIES – SICILY – VILLA VACATION GIVE-A-WAY

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Central Europe and Greece

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Central Europe and Greece

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Italy

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Italy

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – FRANCE & LONDON-PARIS-ROME CITY TOUR

TOUR EXPO 2025 – FRANCE & LONDON-PARIS-ROME CITY TOUR

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Spain and Portugal

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Spain and Portugal

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Italy

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Italy

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – David’s Early International Travel Adventures

TOUR EXPO 2025 – David’s Early International Travel Adventures

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Germany, Austria, and Christmas Markets

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Germany, Austria, and Christmas Markets

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England

TOUR EXPO 2025 – Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

TOUR EXPO 2025 – David’s Early International Travel Adventures

TOUR EXPO 2025 – David’s Early International Travel Adventures

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 31, 2024 – Showcasing Europe Day 3

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 31, 2024 – Showcasing Europe Day 3

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 30, 2024 – Showcasing Europe Day 2

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 30, 2024 – Showcasing Europe Day 2

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 29, 2024 – Showcasing Europe Day 1

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 29, 2024 – Showcasing Europe Day 1

Join David and friends on a three-night journey around Europe showcasing all our Exploring Europe tour destinations. Whether you are looking to travel on one of our small-group tours or hit the road on your own, our Showcasing Europe Celebration will be packed with inspiring videos, time-saving tips, inside travel information, alumni interviews, and more. 

Each evening, David will feature a different region of Europe and hone in on its best destinations, showcasing why a visit may be a worthwhile destination for you. 

Travel Talk Tuesday: December 19, 2023 – The Final Episode & Christmas Celebration

Travel Talk Tuesday: December 19, 2023 – The Final Episode & Christmas Celebration

TRAVEL TALK TUESDAY, THE END OF AN ERA—

I began Travel Talk Tuesday on December 1, 2020. At the time, we were in the heart of the pandemic with nowhere to go. I had spent the better part of 2020 in a mild depression and without a plan for Exploring Europe. As the year’s end approached, I decided to pull out of it and get to work with EE again. Hence, Travel Talk Tuesday with David McGuffin was born.

With the help of my friend and colleague, Leslie Larson, we’ve produced 100+ live episodes and catalogued them online and on YouTube.  Our archives contain content about European destinations we visit on our tours.  Moving forward, I’ll produce five or six Travel Talk Tuesday broadcasts a year to keep everyone up-to-date on my travels, tours, and special promotions. Stay tuned for details coming in January 2024.

We were super busy with our tours in 2022 and 2023.  2024 is looking to be a busy year, too. I’ve run out of time to oversee EE, lead tours, and produce a weekly TTT. So, sadly, I must let it go for now. Thanks for tuning in and please help us end with a bang on December 19th!

All the best and Merry Christmas,

     David, Charlotte, and Leslie

Travel Talk Tuesday: November 14, 2023 – Derry or Londonderry? County Donegal and the North Ireland Coast

Travel Talk Tuesday: November 14, 2023 – Derry or Londonderry? County Donegal and the North Ireland Coast

PART 1: Derry, also known as Londonderry, is a small city straddling the border of The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Strategically placed on the banks of the River Foyle, Londonderry has seen its fair share of battles, conflicts, and controversies. The city’s most iconic feature is its intact 17th-century city walls, which offer a glimpse into its turbulent past. Steeped in history, Derry played a significant role in the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland, but has since emerged as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. David recently walked the walls with a local guide, and he shares the experience in this episode.

PART 2: County Donegal stretched north from Derry to Malin Head, the northernmost point on the island.  Donegal is loaded with ancient historic sites, and beautiful countryside. It provides an off-the-beaten-path look at Ireland.

PART 3: Northern Ireland’s Country Antrim, premier attraction is the Giant’s Causeway.  A series of hexagonal basalt pillars jut out of the land and sea, forming an underwater “bridge” all the way to Scotland.  Additionally, nearby Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, and the Great Hedges can fill a great day out on the north coast.

Travel Talk Tuesday: November 7, 2023 – Tourist Crowd Beating Tips & The Best of Greece

Travel Talk Tuesday: November 7, 2023 – Tourist Crowd Beating Tips & The Best of Greece

PART 1: David laments overcrowded museums and attractions in Europe and shares strategies to beat the crowds and make the most of your sightseeing experience.

PART 2: David talks about his My Best of Greece tour.  Delphi, home of the ancient Oracle and her temples, kicks off the virtual adventure. After crossing the Bay of Corinth, spend several days on the Peloponnese Peninsula, visiting ancient temples, worship sites, historic cities, and theatres. Hopping on a ferry, enjoy a short ride to traffic-free Hydra Island for two days of relaxation.  Then it is off to Athens, where we’ll dedicate the better part of two days to exploring this capital city.  Finally, we’ll fly to Santorini, home of white-washed villages on an ancient volcano caldera.  My Best of Greece & Santorini tour provides the perfect mix of sightseeing, education, and relaxation.

Budapest and Croatia Tour Information

Budapest and Croatia Tour Information

No one does St. Paddy’s Day better than those living in Ireland! Forget about dying rivers green, corn beef and cabbage, and men in kilts. Tonight, join David and friends as they explore Ireland in the days leading up to St. Patrick’s Day. Filmed several years ago, this episode chronicles the experiences of several Marching Bands as they experience Ireland and march in the Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Travel Talk Tuesday: October 17, 2023 – The Best of Budapest & Croatia

Travel Talk Tuesday: October 17, 2023 – The Best of Budapest & Croatia

There is a lot more to Croatia than the Adriatic coast and islands. The Plitvice Lakes are a breathtaking series of interconnected terraced lakes and cascading waterfalls. Zagreb, the capital city, is loaded with iconic architecture from the Habsburg dynasty. To the east lies lush green forests, wine vineyards, and villages almost forgotten in time. Moving into Hungary, Budapest offers thermal baths and Europe’s most magnificent cityscape along the Danube River.

Packing Tips and Tricks

Packing Tips and Tricks

Updated: September 2022 - by David & Charlotte McGuffin, Dawnielle Jacobson, Audra Dupuis and Natalie Kelly Packing can sometimes be the worst part of a trip: spending too much time deciding what to take and then regretting bringing too much. Here are some packing...

Travel Talk Tuesday: October 5, 2021 – Cinque Terre COVID-19 Travel: Monterosso & Riomaggiore

Travel Talk Tuesday: October 5, 2021 – Cinque Terre COVID-19 Travel: Monterosso & Riomaggiore

In this episode of Travel Talk Tuesday, I’ll give you a video update on two of the five Cinque Terre villages. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world, and the Cinque Terre has made adjustments too. It is still crowded, but with Italians and Europeans, not so many from the USA and Asia. Join me a new a refreshed look around the Cinque Terre. I’ll also explain the new measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 28, 2021 – Christmas Markets in Eastern Europe

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 28, 2021 – Christmas Markets in Eastern Europe

In this episode, enjoy Eastern Europe during the Christmas season. These outdoor markets feature unique decorations, beautifully handcrafted arts, and endless opportunities to sample some great food and countless varieties of glüwein, punch, and spiced drinks, served piping hot in souvenir mugs. But there is more to this tour than snow and markets! Enjoy visiting many destinations that, in the busy tourist season, are packed shoulder-to-shoulder with sweaty tourists. Traveling “off-season” means easy access to castles and sights in Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Prague, and Nuremberg. There has never been a better time to visit Europe’s winter wonderland destinations.

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 21, 2021 – Christmas Markets in Germany and Austria

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 21, 2021 – Christmas Markets in Germany and Austria

Christmas Markets in Europe abound during the first weeks of December. These outdoor markets feature unique decorations, beautifully handcrafted arts, and endless opportunities to sample some great food and countless varieties of glüwein, punch, and spiced drinks, served piping hot in souvenir mugs. Tonight, we will visit my favorite Christmas markets in Germany and Austria.

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 14, 2021 – Dallas Travel & Adventure Show

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 14, 2021 – Dallas Travel & Adventure Show

#TravelTalkTuesday this week features my adventures at the Dallas Travel and Adventure Show this past weekend. I’ll chat with my fellow travelers and introduce you to some new friends. Did you know Turkish Airlines is a major air carrier from the USA to Europe? How about a new tour itinerary to Poland? I’ll chat with a representative of the Polish Tourist Board. Finally, we will take a look at some really cool travel products such as suitcases, bags, drink bottles, and more.

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 7, 2021 – Florence

Travel Talk Tuesday: September 7, 2021 – Florence

On this episode of Travel Talk Tuesday, I’ll show you around Florence, Italy, and help you understand how they are emerging from the COVID-19 Pandemic. I was in Florence last month, and oh my, how things have changed. No queues whatsoever at the Accademia and Uffizi Galleries. There were no crowds inside museums, although there was a long line to get into the Duomo and climb the Dome. If you’ve ever thought about traveling to Italy, now is the time to avoid crowds and enjoy the culture and ambiance.

Travel Talk Tuesday: August 31, 2021 – Volterra – Vineyards, Wine and Great Dining

Travel Talk Tuesday: August 31, 2021 – Volterra – Vineyards, Wine and Great Dining

This episode of Travel Talk Tuesday will feature my past visits to Volterra and Western Tuscany. Tonight, we will visit the Etruscan Museum, Ristorante DelDuca, look around City Hall, and enjoy an evening of food and wine at my favorite bar, La Vene di Vino. If Italy is on your radar, now is the time to visit! No crowds, great food, al fresco dining, and friendly locals.

Travel Talk Tuesday: August 24, 2021 – Volterra Pandemic Recovery Report

Travel Talk Tuesday: August 24, 2021 – Volterra Pandemic Recovery Report

This episode of Travel Talk Tuesday features my recent visit to Volterra and Western Tuscany. Enjoy a fresh look around the town and countryside. Volterra, and much of Italy, is emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. Here in the countryside, things seem almost back to normal. We’ll have a look at the recently renovated Basilica, enjoy a drink at my favorite bar, ake a stroll through town, and spend some time in the vineyards at Podere Marcampo. If Italy is on your radar, now is the time to visit! No crowds, great food, al fresco dining, and friendly locals.

Travel Talk Tuesday: August 17, 2021 – Rome, Classical and Baroque!

Travel Talk Tuesday: August 17, 2021 – Rome, Classical and Baroque!

In this episode, I’ll walk you through the Roman Colosseum and Forum, and we’ll visit the Pantheon. Then, enjoy dinner at Ristorante Alfredo (home of Fetticcino Alfredo) and a look around Piazza Navona. I’ll also cook up some polpettine (meatballs) and spaghetti marinara. Finally, we will take a look at how Italy is doing emerging from the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Delta Variant.

Travel Talk Tuesday: May 25, 2021 – Barcelona- 1st Stop on David’s “Best of the Med” Tour

Travel Talk Tuesday: May 25, 2021 – Barcelona- 1st Stop on David’s “Best of the Med” Tour

The Best of the Mediterranean is my tour route that weaves together three counties, five cultures, four languages, and some of the best scenery along the Mediterranean coast. You’ll begin with two action-packed days in Barcelona. Then, head to France to experience medieval castles, Roman ruins, and jet-setting adventures along the French Riviera. Cap off your tour with three relaxing days on the beautiful Italian Riviera.

Travel Talk Tuesday: May 4, 2021 – Greece Part 4 Hydra

Travel Talk Tuesday: May 4, 2021 – Greece Part 4 Hydra

Travel Talk Tuesday is recorded live every week at 7:30 pm ET. In this episode, we’ll take a look at Hydra, located in Agrosaronic Gulf. Hydra is my favorite island, so far. Its close proximity to Athen makes it a popular destination for day cruises. But all you have to do is get one block off the main square, and you’ll feel like a local. Beaches and swimming spots abound, there are no automobiles, donkey and foot traffic only! When I think of a Greek vacation, this is where I go!

Travel Talk Tuesday: April 20, 2021 – Greece Part 2

Travel Talk Tuesday: April 20, 2021 – Greece Part 2

David features some of Greece’s most overlooked destinations. Most tourists visit Athens, cruise the Aegean, or visit one of the popular islands, but there is more to Greece than this! We’ll begin in Delphi, the site of the ancient oracle who dealt out advice to Greek rulers. Enjoy Olympia, this site of the first ancient Olympic Games. Then get off the beaten path on the remote Mani Penninsula with a visit to the seaside village ofKardamyli. We will conclude with Greece’s version of “Mont St. Michel” with a look at the humpbacked island of Monemvasia.

Travel Talk Tuesday: April 6, 2021 – The Best of Sicily

Travel Talk Tuesday: April 6, 2021 – The Best of Sicily

This episode provides a virtual journey around the island visiting my favorite destinations. We will visit all the main tourist sights but often it is the cultural experiences, small villages, and unique destinations that make the most vivid travel memories. I think I’ve come up with a balanced mix of both. Beginning in Palermo, you’ll experience a lively and vibrant city full of colorful characters, ancient churches, and bustling markets. Then we will get out of town visiting the ancient Greek sites of Segesta, Agrigento, and Syracuse. Along the way, you’ll experience the culture, cuisine, and sense of community only found in small villages and hilltowns. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy some free time on your own to make your own travel memories. Sicily will provide an intense dose of Italian culture supercharged with a Sicilian flair. – Your Adventure Starts Here!

Travel Talk Tuesday: March 23, 2021 – Southern Italy

Travel Talk Tuesday: March 23, 2021 – Southern Italy

Southern Italy is really off-the-beaten-path. A region that is still untouched by the tourist frenzy. This edition of Travel Talk Tuesday visits the Gargano Peninsula and the Adriatic Sea. In the Apulia and Basilicata regions, enjoy unique ancient dwellings, boat cruises, fortified castles, delightful dinners, and fine wine. Back across the boot, you’ll visit historical sites such as Paestum and Pompeii and then finish up on the amazing Amalfi Coast for some fun in the sun.

Travel Talk Tuesday: March 16, 2021 – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Travel Talk Tuesday: March 16, 2021 – St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

No one does St. Paddy’s Day better than those living in Ireland! Forget about dying rivers green, corn beef and cabbage, and men in kilts. Tonight, join David and friends as they explore Ireland in the days leading up to St. Patrick’s Day. Filmed several years ago, this episode chronicles the experiences of several Marching Bands as they experience Ireland and march in the Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Travel Talk Tuesday: March 2, 2021 – The Cinque Terre

Travel Talk Tuesday: March 2, 2021 – The Cinque Terre

David explores the Cinque Terre, a delightful collection of five little villages spilling from the mountains into the sea. Traveling to and from the “five villages” in the region is easy by train, boat, or foot. The National Park is loaded with scenic trails providing endless opportunities to get out and explore the outdoors. Stake your claim on one of the many beaches to catch some sun. Each village has its own character, decor, and ambiance as well as plenty of shopping and dining options.

Travel Talk Tuesday: February 23, 2021 – Milan, Italy

Travel Talk Tuesday: February 23, 2021 – Milan, Italy

Milan has been an important trading center since it was founded by the Romans in 222 BC. Home of the Design Museum, all the major design showrooms, an endless cycle of trade fairs, and some of Italy’s most famous fashion houses, Milan is a bustling city brimming with ambition and energy. There are a few worthwhile sights for tourists, as well. The massive Duomo, La Scala Opera Theatre, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II are all worth a look. Then there is DaVinci’s “Last Supper” fresco, painted directly on the dining hall wall of a convent in 1495.

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 5, 2021 – The Tuscan Villa Experience

Travel Talk Tuesday: January 5, 2021 – The Tuscan Villa Experience

Join a small group of 8-15 people in Italy for a fantastic holiday in Tuscany. We will set up for seven nights at the modern 21st-century agriturismo resort near Volterra, Italy. This wonderful agriturismo “villa” comes complete with all the “perks” such as modern rooms, WIFI, air conditioning, plasma TV, and a private pool. This all sits smack-dab in the middle of a hilltop vineyard with broad sweeping vistas of the Tuscan countryside.

Travel Talk Tuesday: December 22, 2020 – Christmas Markets in Europe

Travel Talk Tuesday: December 22, 2020 – Christmas Markets in Europe

Christmas Markets in Europe abound during the first weeks of December. These outdoor markets feature unique decorations, beautifully handcrafted arts, and endless opportunities to sample some great food and countless varieties of glüwein, punch, and spiced drinks, served piping hot in souvenir mugs.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 has shut down many of these traditional markets for 2020. This is a recording of David’s Travel Talk Tuesday chat with friends from around Europe.

October 2020 Travel News

October 2020 Travel News

Are you itching to travel in 2021? I am too! We've rolled out all twenty of our tours visiting 13 countries in Europe, hoping this pandemic will be in the rearview mirror by Spring 2021. I've participated in more than my fair share of tourism-focused zoom calls and...

August 2020 Tour & Travel News

August 2020 Tour & Travel News

The Pandemic and Exploring Europe Here it is mid-August, and I've not left the USA in eight months! For many, that is not uncommon, but Europe is my office, my job, and my livelihood. This Pandemic has affected everyone in the world in one way or another, but the...

COVID-19 Coronavirus Updates

COVID-19 Coronavirus Updates

March 16, 2020 -  The COVID-19 Coronavirus has spread across the globe faster and wider than expected.  Now with Europe and the United States almost on total lockdown, it is uncertain when life will get back to normal.  Regardless of all the "news" erupting from our...

Upcoming travel shows, Scotland tour

Upcoming travel shows, Scotland tour

  Upcoming travel shows in Denver and Atlanta If you or someone you know lives in one of these cities, come visit with us and be our VIP guest! Follow the links below to get your tickets on us. Denver Travel and Adventure Show When: February 22 (10am–5pm) and...

Boston Travel Show This Weekend

Boston Travel Show This Weekend

  If you live in Boston, come meet David this weekend and be our VIP guest at the Boston Travel and Adventure Show! You can see cultural performances, meet your favorite travel celebrities and explore the world under one roof. As our guest, admission to the show...

Upcoming Travel Shows

Upcoming Travel Shows

Happy New Year! 2020 Travel Shows We’re kicking off 2020 with travel shows in Boston, Chicago, Denver, Atlanta, Washington DC, Philadelphia and Dallas. If you or someone you know lives in one of these cities, come visit with us and be our VIP guest! You can see...

New Christmas Markets Tour

New Christmas Markets Tour

Christmas Markets of Eastern Europe Our Christmas markets tour to Germany and Austria has been a hit. So, in 2020, we’ll be adding a new Christmas markets tour visiting five Eastern European countries. You’ll have a chance to explore Christmas markets, sample local...

Exploring Edinburgh

Exploring Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the second-largest city in Scotland, is its historic and cultural capital. Just a glance at the castle on the hill will tell you that this has always been an important city. Centuries after that castle was built, the English moved in and constructed a...

Exploring Florence

Exploring Florence

A Brief History of Florence The powerful Medici family ruled Florence for most of the 15th century. It was through their patronage that the great artists of the Renaissance literally chiseled themselves from the constraints of the Middle Ages into a new artistic...

Roman Amphitheater Unearthed in Volterra

Roman Amphitheater Unearthed in Volterra

September 20, 2019- Today, I visited a previously undiscovered Roman-era amphitheater discovered just inside the ancient Etruscan city walls of Volterra. No one quite understands why there was no historical account of its existence, but apparently it is for real....

Spotlight on Volterra

Spotlight on Volterra

Check out David's awesome pictures from the Best of Italy and Essence of Italy tours on the Exploring Europe Facebook page and on Instagram. Keep reading to find out more about our third destination. Volterra Volterra is my favorite Tuscan hill town and the perfect...

Exploring Volterra

Exploring Volterra

Volterra's History Volterra has been around a long time. The first evidence of a settlement in the area was during the Neolithic Age when settlers moved from “low ground” to the more defensible “high ground” of Volterra. The town sits on a hill about 540 meters above...

Introducing the 2020 Tour Lineup

Introducing the 2020 Tour Lineup

Our 2020 tour lineup is out, with 17 itineraries visiting 18 countries in Europe. Our tours feature all-inclusive prices, capital cities and small villages, all the big tourist sights, and some off-the-beaten-path destinations too. [metaslider id="68609"]   To...

Spotlight on the Cinque Terre

Spotlight on the Cinque Terre

Check out David's awesome pictures from the Best of Italy and Essence of Italy tours on the Exploring Europe Facebook page and on Instagram. Keep reading to find out more about our second destination. The Cinque Terre The rugged coastline of Liguria is peppered with...

Exploring the Cinque Terre

Exploring the Cinque Terre

What to Do in the Cinque Terre The Cinque Terre—or “five lands”—is a loose-knit group of villages on Italy’s northern Ligurian Sea. Swimming Every town, except Corniglia, has a rocky beach with access to the cool water of the Ligurian Sea. Monterosso al Mare is the...

Introducing the 2019 Tour Lineup

Introducing the 2019 Tour Lineup

Our 2019 tour lineup is out, featuring updated itineraries for Ireland and the return of our tours to France and Spain! See an overview of all 2019 tours here, with a helpful chart to compare prices, dates and duration. Spotlight on Tours Visiting Italy You’ve decided...

Spotlight on Rome

Spotlight on Rome

  David is currently trekking through Italy on the Best of Italy and Essence of Italy tours. Follow him on his adventure and check out his awesome pictures on the Exploring Europe Facebook page. Keep reading to find out more about our first destination. Rome...

Rome: Vatican City

Rome: Vatican City

Vatican City David shares his tips on what to see when touring the Vatican. The Grounds The gardens on the Vatican grounds make up half of the 44 hectares of Vatican City and can be seen from the western side of the museum. On the grounds you will see lawns, woods,...

Rome’s Baroque City Center

Rome: Baroque City Center Explore some of the sites in Rome’s Baroque city center. Piazza Venezia This busy piazza in the center of Rome is lined with several palaces, the most important being the Palazzo Venezia.  It was constructed by Pope Paul II (1464-71) and is...

Ancient Rome

Ancient Rome

Ancient Rome Read about some of David’s favorite sites dating back to ancient Rome. The Colosseum This massive arena is the first image that comes to mind when I think of Rome.  Constructed by the Emperor Vespasian (the first of several “Flavian” emperors) it was...

42 Years and I still love ROME

42 Years and I still love ROME

I visited Rome for the first time in May 1977 while on a choral concert tour with my college choir.  That trip, and that choir, left a lasting impression on me and played an important role in the direction and professional choices I've made for my life.  That...

More bang for your buck on our tours

More bang for your buck on our tours

Our website says: “We believe you can do, see and experience more on a group tour than if you tried to pull it all together yourself. Think about the time, money, stress and effort you’d invest in pulling off a two-week tour to Europe. Then consider that we do it all...

Discounts on our most popular tours to Italy

Discounts on our most popular tours to Italy

We are offering discounts on our most popular Italy tours. See our tour comparison chart here and read the descriptions below to find out which tour is best for you. Then head over to our website to sign up today.   Best of Italy: This tour has it all, with an...

Honoring Notre Dame

Honoring Notre Dame

Notre Dame On Monday evening, a major fire erupted in the attic of Notre Dame. It blazed for 10 hours, fueled by the Cathedral’s wooden frame. Tourists the world over have shared their memories of visiting Notre Dame and lamented the damage to this jewel at the heart...

Dallas Travel Show This Weekend

Dallas Travel Show This Weekend

Dallas Travel Show This Weekend Looking for some weekend plans? David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe will be participating in the annual Dallas Travel & Adventure Show THIS WEEKEND, March 30–31, at the Dallas Market Hall—and we have 150 FREE TICKETS to give away!...

Philadelphia Travel Show This Weekend

Philadelphia Travel Show This Weekend

Philadelphia Travel Show This Weekend Looking for some weekend plans? David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe will be participating in the annual Philadelphia Travel & Adventure Show THIS WEEKEND, March 9–10, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center—and we have 150 FREE...

Denver Travel Show This Weekend

Denver Travel Show This Weekend

Denver Travel Show This Weekend Looking for some weekend plans? David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe will be participating in the annual Denver Travel & Adventure Show THIS WEEKEND, February 23-24, at the Colorado Convention Center – and we have 150 FREE TICKETS to...

Edinburgh

Edinburgh I've been visiting Scotland for almost twenty years. Much of that has been while leading my groups around on guided tours, but some of the best times have been those when I was wandering alone or exploring with my wife. I've always had a soft spot in my...

Chicago Travel Show This Weekend

Chicago Travel Show This Weekend

Chicago Travel Show This Weekend Looking for some weekend plans? David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe will be participating in the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show THIS WEEKEND at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center – and we have 150 FREE TICKETS to give away!...

Christmas Markets Tour 2019

Christmas Markets Tour 2019

Christmas Markets 2019 Are you feeling the stress of that last-minute shopping and wishing you could just get away? Why not join us next year on our Christmas Markets Tour! Travel through a European winter wonderland and get all your holiday shopping done at the...

Wines of Tuscany: White Wine

Wines of Tuscany: White Wine

Wines of Tuscany: White Wine To cap off my blog series about the wines of Tuscany, let’s talk about the white wine choices. Tuscany is most famous for its red wine, but there are a few whites that stand out as well. Many people think that all Italians drink only red...

Strictly Small Groups – August 2018 Policy Change

Strictly Small Groups – August 2018 Policy Change

Strictly Small Groups with David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe Tours I am making a change to my small-group policy to better serve you. The State of Tourism in Europe During the last eight months, I’ve traveled all over Europe to both small, out-of-the-way destinations...

Wines of Tuscany: Super Tuscans

Wines of Tuscany: Super Tuscans

Super Tuscans Super Tuscan… what is that supposed to mean? A new super hero, a WWF wrestler or a very hot Italian super model? Well, in the world of wine, Super Tuscan could mean all of the above. Simply put, Super Tuscan is a purely concocted term referring to red...

Big discounts on 2018 tours!

Big discounts on 2018 tours!

Big Savings on Upcoming Tours If your schedule is flexible, join us on an upcoming tour and take advantage of big savings. TASTE O'IRELAND, August 19-28  $500 discount - 4 seats remaining THE BEST OF SCOTLAND & WALES, Sept 4-13 $400 discount - 4 seats remaining...

Eating Out in Paris

Eating Out in Paris

There are at least 40,000 restaurants in Paris!   So says the BBC in a 2016 report.  For me, that's about 39,950 chances to go wrong when eating out in Paris. I've been visiting Paris for decades and have made my fair share of mistakes.  In fact, I made a poor choice...

Wines of Tuscany: Brunello di Montalcino

Wines of Tuscany: Brunello di Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino Of all the DOCG wines produced in Tuscany, my favorite is Brunello di Montalcino. Like the other Tuscan wines I’ve discussed in previous articles, this too is Sangiovese-based and produced under strict local and state regulations. The town of...

Wines of Tuscany: Nobile di Montepulciano

Wines of Tuscany: Nobile di Montepulciano

  Nobile di Montepulciano Nobile di Montepulciano is one of Tuscany’s oldest and most renowned wines. It is made from Sangiovese grapes grown around the town of Montepulciano in Southeastern Tuscany. Locally, the Sangiovese grape is known as Prugnolo Gentile, but it...

Wines of Tuscany: Chianti

Wines of Tuscany: Chianti

Chianti A few decades ago, Chianti was the most recognizable Italian red wine in the United States. When I was young, I recall visiting Italian restaurants decorated with red-checkered tablecloths and pear-shaped, straw-covered wine bottles holding half-burnt candles....

Wines of Tuscany

Wines of Tuscany

Wines of Tuscany Italy is synonymous with its amazing food and wines, and Tuscany is the heart and soul of Italian gastronomy. Nothing compares to savoring fresh pasta and sipping local wine on a piazza as you watch the people go by. Eating (and drinking) well is a...

New Tours in 2019

New Tours in 2019

2019 Tours We are working on our 2019 tour line-up and already have many trips available for you to sign up. Join us on a European adventure and you could cruise Venice in a gondola, savor la dolce vita in Tuscany, climb the Eiffel Tower, hike the Alps in Switzerland,...

Denver Travel Show This Weekend

Denver Travel Show This Weekend

Denver Travel Show This Weekend Looking for some weekend plans? David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe will be participating in the Denver Travel & Adventure Show THIS WEEKEND at the Colorado Convention Center – and we have 150 FREE TICKETS to give away! Simply follow...

Dallas Travel Show This Weekend

Dallas Travel Show This Weekend

Dallas Travel Show This Weekend Looking for some weekend plans? David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe will be participating in the Dallas Travel & Adventure Show THIS WEEKEND at the Dallas Market Center – and we have 150 FREE TICKETS to give away! Simply follow...

Come Visit Us at a Travel Show in the USA

Come Visit Us at a Travel Show in the USA

During the next nine weeks we will be crisscrossing the USA taking our Exploring Europe show on the road. In our ongoing effort to expand nationally, we join the Travel and Adventure Show network to talk about and showcase our tours to Europe.  This is your SPECIAL...

Free and Discounted Tours for Alumni

Free and Discounted Tours for Alumni

Did You Know? David offers lots of discount opportunities to tour alumni through various competitions and just for traveling with him. You could even win a free trip! Here are some of the ways to take advantage of your former Exploring Europe experiences to make new...

Christmas Markets of Germany and Austria

Christmas Markets of Germany and Austria

Christmas Markets of Germany and Austria If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, follow David on Facebook next week as he heads back to Europe for nine days filled with holiday cheer. Keep an eye out for live videos of Christmas markets and festive revelry!...

58 Days of Exploring Europe

58 Days of Exploring Europe

David and Charlotte are wrapping up 58 days on the road: five tours across eight countries! Check out this three-minute video on Facebook to see some of the beautiful places they’ve visited, featured in the Best of Italy Tour, the Best of Germany-Austria-Switzerland,...

Deadlines approaching: Last chance to save/win $100

Deadlines approaching: Last chance to save/win $100

Take advantage of our $100 early-bird discount when you sign up for a 2018 tour before October 1. Head over to davidmcguffin.com and check out some of our newest tours, including The Best of the Med, The Best of Greece and The Best of Eastern Europe. Calendar photo...

The Best of Eastern Europe

The Best of Eastern Europe

I would like to thank you all for your concern as Hurricane Irma passed over Florida. Charlotte and I were in Italy and our family is safe. If you are dealing with the effects of the storm, please know that you and the rest of our fellow travelers from the Southeast...

Check out our two newest tours

Check out our two newest tours

We’ve added two more tours to our 2018 line-up! See below for details on The Best of the Med and The Best of Greece. We’ve also extended our $100 early-bird discount through October 1. New tours are still being added, so keep checking davidmcguffin.com. Keep an eye...

2018 Tours on Sale

2018 Tours on Sale

If you’ve poked around davidmcguffin.com recently, you may have discovered we’ve been sneaking around adding new tour destinations and departures for 2018. At the moment you’ll find our popular Ireland and Italy tours are all spruced up and ready to go. In the coming...

David Talks Terrorism and Travel

David Talks Terrorism and Travel

Terrorism and Travel Summer is rapidly approaching and people are gearing up for their vacations here at home and in other parts of the world.  I spend much of my time in Europe leading tours, writing about my travels and exploring new destinations.  Because I travel...

Tour with Us This Fall

Tour with Us This Fall

Christmas Markets Tour This Christmas season, why not celebrate in some of Europe’s most picturesque snow-covered landscapes? And traveling in the off season means that you won’t be packed shoulder-to-shoulder with sweaty tourists. On this tour, you can shop the...

Viking River Cruise… who me? Final Episode

Viking River Cruise... who me? Final Episode Apples and Oranges It is not possible to fairly compare a European river cruise with a European land tour.  The two offer totally different travel experiences and as a friend says, it is like comparing apples and oranges......

Viking River Cruise… who me? Episode 2

An Authentic Austrian Dinner This was the appetizers we found on our tables at dinner last night.  I was so happy to see local meats and cheeses that I forget to take photos of the rest of the meal... ha! Last night we had an authentic Austria dinner!  It featured all...

Viking River Cruise… Who me? Episode 1

Viking River Cruise... Who me? Episode 1 The Stateroom There are many benefits associated with this Viking River cruise, but perhaps the best is the opportunity to unpack once for a seven-day tour.  Our stateroom more than meets our needs with plenty of sleeping,...

Tipping In Europe

  In the United States, we’ve been raised on a tradition of tipping cabbies, hotel staff, bartenders, waiters and a variety of other service-oriented personnel.  Consequently, for Americans it seems normal to provide a tip or gratuity for good service.   When...

Chip and Pin Credit Cards

Chip and Pin Credit Cards     The USA has long been a worldwide holdout on buying into the Chip and Pin technology.  I subscribe to International Travel News, a longtime publication for savvy international travelers, and Chip and Pin cards have been a hot topic of...

Check out our 2017 Tours, with lots of ways to save

Check out our 2017 Tours, with lots of ways to save

Save Now on 2017 Tours Our 2017 tour line-up is available now! Book your tour by December 1st and save $100. Join us on one of our favorite tours to Ireland and Italy or try something new. Revel in the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Dublin, relax at a Tuscan villa,...

100 Days in Europe Days 61-67: Italy

100 Days in Europe Days 61-67: Italy

Day 61 Volterra Volterra is my favorite Tuscan hill-town. Its cute, cobbled streets, medieval ambiance, old town hall, good food and great wine, will tug at your heart and make you want to stay for an extra day...or week! Click the picture to watch the video. [divider...

Join us in Europe this Year

Join us in Europe this Year

New Tour: London and Paris City Tour Experience two of Europe’s most famous capitals this fall. Your adventure starts in London, home to the kings and queens of England since 1066. Then you’ll hop across the English Channel to visit Paris, City of Lights, City of...

100 Days in Europe Days 42-48: Greece

100 Days in Europe Days 42-48: Greece

Day 42 Delphi About 2500 years ago, kings and other important people traveled to this remote area to have their "fortune" told by an oracle who was induced into a trance by the locale. Delphi is a great way to begin a trip to Greece... off-the-beaten-path, historic...

Introducing Our New Tour to Italy

Introducing Our New Tour to Italy

New Italy Tour: Italy off the Beaten Path Join us on this brand new tour and take advantage of the special introductory price. If you want to experience Italy without the crowds, museums and tour buses, this is the tour for you. I’ve designed this tour especially for...

100 Days in Europe Days 33-41: Ireland

100 Days in Europe Days 33-41: Ireland

Day 33 The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge stretches across to a small island on the very northern tip of Ireland. It was used in years past by salmon fishermen to reach this strategic location where the fish rounded this point on their...

100 Days in Europe Days 9-12: Rome

100 Days in Europe Days 9-12: Rome

Day 9 I've headed back to Rome for the first time this year. The non-event here is that Joe Biden is in town. I only heard about it from the American news channels and the Romans don't seem to care. The Piazza del Popolo is just inside the ancient northern gate to...

Gearing up for Summer

Gearing up for Summer

100 Days of Travels in Europe   Today marks Day 9 of 100 days of leading tours and researching new destinations. I’ll be posting on Facebook and blogging on my website every day. I hope you’ll follow along and participate in my adventures! You can get started by...

100 Days in Europe 8/100: The Ponte Vecchio

100 Days in Europe 8/100: The Ponte Vecchio

The Ponte Vecchio, or “old bridge” spans the Arno River in Florence, Italy.  There has been a bridge here since Roman times. It has been destroyed several times by floods (1117 and 1333) but always rebuilt.  The bridge we see today is the work of Giorgio Vasari, a...

100 Days in Europe 6/100: Ristorante Casa Gala

100 Days in Europe 6/100: Ristorante Casa Gala

CASA GALA – Montecatini Alto It is amazing what a chef can do with simple food, especially when there are fantastic ingredients.  Recently, I visited Montecatini Alto, a small hilltown outside of Florence.  I decided to have lunch at a little outdoor café known as...

100 Days in Europe 5/100: Montecatini Alto

Montacatini Terme is a spa town located between Florence and Pisa.  For many, it provides more affordable hotel alternatives than staying in Florence.  Today, I explored the town and then took the finuculare up to the charming village in the mountains know as...

100 Days in Europe 4/100: Marcampo Agriturismo

100 Days in Europe 4/100: Marcampo Agriturismo

Agriturismo MARCAMPO Volterra is my favorite hilltown in Tuscany.  Years ago, arrived in town for the first time, met new friends in the local bar and have been coming back ever since.  One of those friends was Genuino who owned a restaurant and wine bar in town. ...

100 Days in Europe 3/100 Truffle Hunting

100 Days in Europe 3/100 Truffle Hunting

Today, I joined my friends Moreno and Manuelle for another trek in the woods, this time in search of truffles. A truffle is the fruit of a subterranean fungus and is a species of the genus known as “tuber.” Many of the species are highly prized for gourmet cooking,...

100 Days in Europe 2/100 A Walk in the Woods

100 Days in Europe 2/100 A Walk in the Woods

2/100 Days in Europe Le Marche region of Italy I try to put in 5 miles a day (not counting walking on tours) for jogging/walking exercise.  This seems almost like a chore at home, but when in Europe it gives me a chance to explore new areas from a different...

Kicking off 100 days of travels in Europe

Kicking off 100 days of travels in Europe

I arrived in Europe early this morning to begin 100+ days of leading tours and researching new destinations. I hope you’ll follow my adventures in Europe!  I’ll be posting on Facebook, and blogging here on my website, everyday for at least the next 100 days and I hope...

We’re Kicking off our 2016 Tour Season!

We’re Kicking off our 2016 Tour Season!

Kicking off 2016 with St. Paddy’s Day in Ireland We’re kicking off our 2016 tour season with three tours in Ireland. We’ll be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with all the local flair. Then we’re off to Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Follow along on Facebook and...

Plan the Tour of your Dreams

Plan the Tour of your Dreams

You Dream it, We’ll Plan it Exploring Europe offers a variety of destinations and tours, but if you have somewhere special in mind, we can help you plan a private tour for your friends and family. No group is too small or too large, and we offer a variety of services...

Scrapbook Deadline Today

Scrapbook Deadline Today

    Online Tour Album Scrapbook Contest Deadline Today   All entries for the online tour album scrapbook contest must be received by 11:59 P.M. EST today. Click the link to submit your website.       Your Adventure Starts Here!...

Promoting our Tours

Promoting our Tours

Travel Shows across the USA Over the next six weeks, we will be devoting some time to traveling the USA to promote our tours.  Thanks to you, we do a pretty good job by word-of-mouth and local advertising in the Southeast.  Now, we are trying to expand nationally in...

Congratulations!  2016 Calendar Photo Submissions

Congratulations! 2016 Calendar Photo Submissions

Thanks to all tour alumni who submitted a photo for my 2016 Exploring Europe Calendar.  All winners will receive a $100 discount on a David McGuffin tour taken before June 2017.  Here are this year's winning entries.   David Terrones - Salzburg    ...

Check out the 2016 tour line-up

Check out the 2016 tour line-up

NOVEMBER 1, 2015 Save $100 when you book a 2016 tour by November 15 There are a lot of great tours available in 2016, like the Essence of France Tour. The art, the history, the food! On the Essence of France tour you’ll have plenty of time to explore the great sights...

What to do on long layover in New York City

I’ve struck off on my penultimate flight to Europe for the year.  I’ve decided to put myself on some kind of regimented exercise plan to counteract all the fine dining I offer on my tours, ha! So to get things started on the right foot I planned a layover in New York...

Take $100 off any 2016 Tour

Take $100 off any 2016 Tour

  SEPTEMBER 18, 2015 Start planning next year’s European vacation today Our 2016 line-up is now online and we have a few new destinations to offer alongside our favorites in Italy and Ireland. Explore the beautiful castles of the Loire Valley in France on the...

Discounts on all Remaining 2015 Tours

Discounts on all Remaining 2015 Tours

  AUGUST 28, 2015 Discounts on all Remaining 2015 Tours As we gear up for the exciting new lineup of tours in 2016, this year’s remaining tours have been discounted. Here is your chance to visit Ireland or Italy, or join the Christmas Markets Tour in Germany and...

Christmas Markets Tour

Christmas Markets Tour

  AUGUST 21, 2015 Christmas Markets Tour Have you started planning your Christmas vacation? Why not join David on his Christmas Markets tour! This tour centers on outdoor Christmas markets in Austria and Germany. You will also visit many tourist destinations, and...

Free and Discounted Tours for Tour Alumni

Free and Discounted Tours for Tour Alumni

  JULY 10, 2015 Did You Know? David offers lots of discount opportunities to tour alumni through various competitions and just for traveling with him. You could even win a free trip! Here are some of the ways to take advantage of your former Exploring Europe...

David McGuffin Explores – video series

David McGuffin Explores – video series

Italy has it all: good wine, great food, generous hospitality, mountains and beaches, small towns and big cities. Join David on a virtual tour of one of his most popular destinations in a six-part video series, David McGuffin Explores. If you’ve ever wondered what...

Grüß Gott from Salzburg, Austria!

Grüß Gott from Salzburg, Austria!

David McGuffin's Exploring Europe Tour and Travel News June 5, 2015 Grüß Gott from Salzburg, Austria!  Even though the Austrians speak German, the phrase Guten Tag (good day) is not the common greeting. Instead, Austrians use Grüß Gott meaning “may God be with you.”...

Your Adventure Starts at the Louvre

Your Adventure Starts at the Louvre

May 22, 2015 Among the many attractions of the City of Light is the Louvre. It is one of the largest and most-visited museums in the world. With over 30,000 pieces of art spread across more than 650,000 square feet of gallery space, visiting the Louvre can seem like a...

Your Adventure Starts in the Kitchens of Tuscany

Your Adventure Starts in the Kitchens of Tuscany

 May 8, 2015 Spotlight on Italian Cuisine: Tuscany I tend to find that cuisine in Tuscany mainly consists of heavy and hearty rustic home cooking. It’s all about simple food prepared to taste great. You'll find fresh vegetables, superb olive oils, grilled meats,...

Smartphone Travel Tips

Smartphone Travel Tips

UPDATED: August 2025 These smartphone travel tips will help you save money and get the most out of your overseas travel. Cell phone providers in the USA have made it easy to stay connected while traveling by introducing affordable temporary travel options that include...

Spotlight on Italian Cuisine: Rome

Spotlight on Italian Cuisine: Rome

Your Adventure Starts in the Kitchens of Rome One of the best things about traveling on an Exploring Europe tour is the food! Eating well is a priority and all tours include breakfast every morning and half of your lunches or dinners. The next few newsletters will...

Your Adventure Starts in Skopelos, Greece

Your Adventure Starts in Skopelos, Greece

APRIL 3, 2015 Skopelos is an island on the eastern side of Greece, in the Aegean Sea. The island shot to fame in 2008 as the filming location for “Mamma Mia.” As you tour the island you will recognize many settings from the movie, especially the Agios Ioannis chapel,...

VAT Refunds in IRELAND

Value added tax or VAT  for short, is added to most purchases within the European Union. Each country has its own VAT  ranging from 12% to 23%.   A tourist  is entitled to a refund of this VAT  as long as the purchase has not been used and is exported from the...

Your Adventure Starts at Windsor Castle

Your Adventure Starts at Windsor Castle

MARCH 20, 2015 Greetings from London! Charlotte and I are here leading a tour of 130 students from the Spruce Creek high school band and color guard. We’ve packed a lot in during the two days we’ve been in London: a comprehensive sightseeing tour led by local blue...

Your Adventure Starts in London

Your Adventure Starts in London

 MARCH 2015 Each week we will be featuring an Exploring Europe destination in addition to proving you with the latest news and updates. For those times when you can’t travel, we’ll bring the sights to you. We hope that you enjoy the new content. This week, your...

My Black Friday Promotion Starts Now!

My Black Friday Promotion Starts Now!

Name your price for a David McGuffin tour departing in February or March 2015. If your offer is reasonable, and we accept it, you’ll enjoy traveling off-season with a small group on a fun and exciting David McGuffin tour.         This offer is...

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

    THANKSGIVING 2014  A friend living in Italy sent this photo of an advertisement posted on a restaurant door. Even though Thanksgiving is not celebrated in Italy, it appears this ristorante is going to give it a good shot!  Having had my fare share of Italian...

NOVEMBER TOUR & TRAVEL NEWS

NOVEMBER TOUR & TRAVEL NEWS

I’ve been busy the last few months with several projects designed to promote David McGuffin’s Exploring Europe and to introduce my tours in new markets.  Last week, we participated in The Travel and Adventure Show in Dallas, Texas where we had the opportunity to visit...

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT 2015

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT 2015

Book your seat on any 2015 David McGuffin tour, and automatically save $100 per person.  We are offering more tours than ever.  Booking early is a sure way to lock in current prices, your preferred departure date, and save $100!  Hurry, this offer ends January 5,...

Greece- Dublin to Athens

Greece- Dublin to Athens

  Leaving Ireland I’ve been in Ireland for more than a month and although I love the Emerald Isle, I’m ready for a change.  This morning, I was up at 4:30 and on my flight to Athens by 7:30.  Even before my Aer Lingus flight took off, I was dozing. Four hours and...

The Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin Wall Memorial

The Berlin Wall, a 96-mile-long barrier, was erected in stages around West Berlin in 1961.  The East Germany government did not call it a barrier or wall, but the “Anti-Fascist Protective Rampart.”  Major portions were rapidly constructed, almost overnight, to prevent...

Arrival in Berlin

Arrival in Berlin

From early in my life, I had heard stories about The Cold War, East Germany, and the East and West Berlin separation.  I recall my uncle, a U.S. Army officer, telling stories about his adventures while stationed in Germany in the 1950’s.  Later, his son (my cousin...

ScotteVest Evaluation

ScotteVest Evaluation I mentioned a few days ago that I was testing a ScotteVest to determine if it was a suitable replacement for my normal drawstring backpack.  I’ve worn it now for four days and now can make an evaluation. But before I do, let me tell you a little...

Slow Down and Experience Paris

Slow Down and Experience Paris

In the past few months I’ve visited Paris on three occasions with three very diverse groups.  With each visit, we stayed for three nights and packed in all the sights into two and a half days. Although it is possible to see Paris’ major sights in that short timeframe,...

GALWAY’S NEW/OLD CATHEDRAL

Today we explore St. Nicholas Cathedral in Galway, Ireland. The Cathedral was constructed approximately fifty years ago and blends Roman and Gothic styles. Its architectural blend and the inclusion of American Red Wood and contemporary stain glass make it a unique...

Galway and the very “short” River Corrib

In Galway, the River Corrib is famous for its salmon ladders. I decided to stop and watch a few anglers try their luck at bringing in dinner. You never know what you'll stumble across when you take just a few moments to explore off the beaten path. Here is this week's...

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY TO MY DAD! Today, I am in Paris showing my favorite city to several of my new found friends and travel partners.  This morning, I’ve had a few minutes to reflect on just how I got the travel “bug” and what drives me to share my passion with others....

Electrical Adapters

Electrical Adapters

Traveling without electronics is near impossible in today’s world.  Twenty years ago, the only travel concern relating to electricity was how to plug in a blow dryer or curling iron without causing a meltdown. But not today, just think of all the gadgets we have: ...

Packing Tips for Winter Travel

Charlotte and I are gearing up for a trip to Germany and Austria to visit a few European Christmas Markets. Traveling in the winter requires a little more thought in terms of packing, layering, and staying protected from the elements. However, with a little planning,...

MORE HINTS WHEN FRAMING PHOTOS by Dave Davis

When taking a photo where there is a primary subject, the primary subject should often occupy the central 60-80% of the total image with a little (10-15 percent) on the left, on the right, on the top and on the bottom.    Keep the primary subject in that central area...

Venice, Italy

In the summer months, VENICE can be gruling.  Hot, steamy, crowded with tourists, and very little air conditioning often makes me want to get through the tourist sights and then seek refuge.  Located on the Adriatic Sea, in a lagoon loaded with marshy islands, it is...

Hints on Tipping in the United Kingdom

Recently, while traveling in the UK, I decided to take an informal survey on tipping/gratuity customs in the 21st century. My research is based on interviews with restaurant and pub patrons as well as the wait staff, bartenders, and pub owners. To get a perspective on...

HINTS on TIPPING in IRELAND

IRELAND has changed a lot in the last fifteen years. Recently, while traveling in Ireland, I decided to take an informal survey on tipping/gratuity customs in the 21st century. My research is based on interviews with restaurant and pub patrons as well as the wait...

Forty Shades of Green

[/caption] A few days ago I left a very warm Florida bound for the Emerald Isle. After a short overnight flight, I was jostled awake by the flight attendant bringing my breakfast. Raising my window and letting the dawning sun shine in, I was treated to a magnificent...

A Bus Driving Fiasco

95% of the time, I personally know my bus drivers and they and I have worked together for many years. On this tour, when the flight itineraries changed, I had to change my bus and driver plans as well. I contacted my tour agency friend in Rome and requested bus and...

Rome before the tourist come out

ROME- My flight landed at 6:30 a.m. at Rome's Leonardo DaVinci Airport. No long lines this time of morning! I was out the door and on the Leonard Express train within 20 minutes. I made a transfer to the Metro for a short ride to Piazza Spagna. The piazza and Spanish...

Progress in the Cinque Terre

Liguria, and especially the Cinque Terre, were hit by heavy rains on October 25.   As a result, much of the soil and rock on the hills above Vernazza and Monterosso gave way and came crashing down into the villages.  Now, after about six weeks, the two towns are...

Video from onsite reporting in Vernazza

  I came across this video account of the clean up in Vernazza.  Although in Italian, the pictures say a lot. In the beginning, the reporter is speaking with a gentleman digging around the chimney of his home.  The sign reads: "This is my home," and list his name...

Clean up from the flash flood in Vernazza

It appears there is a "semi" orchestrated effort to begin the clean up in Vernazza and Monterosso.  My sources say that mobile phone service has been restored, however, phone, electrical, gas, and other utilities are still not working.  Roads leading into the Cinque...

Volterra: Podere Marcampo

Podere Marcampo is a newly constructed agriturismo located on the road towards Pisa, about four miles outside of Volterra.  My friend, Genuino del Duca, and his family have labored countless hours to present a first-class lodging opportunity.  They rent out three...

A Bike tour of LUCCA, ITALY

A couple of days ago, Charlotte and I visited Lucca, one of the few places in Tuscany I've never seen.  In order to get a "feel" for the city, we rented bikes and rode around the Renaissance-era city walls.  The walls are 100 feet wide, flat and paved.  As you can see...

Flight Delays

Flight delays seem to jump on me like the plague this year.  Charlotte and I are heading to Tuscany for our vacation.  Everything went well until we got to our first stop/lay-over in Atlanta.  Our flight to JFK was due to depart at 3:30.  Charlotte wanted to be the...

Scottish Highland Vistas

A few days ago we experienced unsually perfect weather in Scotland... 65 degrees F, few clouds, lots of sun and an awesome vantage point.  Just outside of Fort William, a funicular transports visitors to the highland approaches of Ben Nevis, Scotland's highest peak. ...

Carcassonne… an authentic medieval fortress

Recently, I've been reading two of Ken Follett's novels, Pillars of the Earth and World Without End. He sets the fictional story in a realistic Middle Ages town in England, which he calls Kingsbridge.  Mr. Follett's description of Kingsbridge Priory, the Earl of...

Swiss Alpine Train Excursion

There are several scenic train routes running through the Alps of Switzerland. The "Golden Pass" route connects Lucerne, Interlaken and Montreaux and offers what many think to be the best scenic alpine train excursion. I began my journey at the halfway point, in...

A day of Mishaps

I think Steinbeck said it like this, "The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry."  After this day of running around like a chicken with my head cut off, I totally agree!  I thought I had organized a good travel plan for leaving Barcelona and arriving in the...

Belém, Portugal

Belém is located about 6 km west of Lisbon, on the Tagus River. Its name is derived from the Portuguese word for Bethlehem. There are four main sights: the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, the Monument to the Discoveries and the Belém Pastry Shop. The Jerónimos...

El Escorial, Spain

Arrived here on a Friday afternoon, just as the local school was getting out for the summer vacation.  Apparently, the school occupies an interior segment of El Escorial.  El Escorial is the "summer palace" of Spain's royal family. Built in the 16th century, it is...

TSA Secure Flight Information

Questions about airline ticketing and the TSA's Secure Flight Program often  come up when booking airline tickets.  Here is my distilled version of the TSA's behind-the-scene watchlist program. Since November 1, 2010 airline passengers are require to provide "secure...

Gifts for the flight crew

Today, I am off to Europe for a few weeks of tour guiding. Before I get there and start to work, I decided to try an experiment with my flight attendants. I often notice tha flight attendants put up with a lot of unecessary abuse from airline passengers. They work...

Lost in London

Have you ever been lost? Not the kind of lost where you really don't have a clue where you are, but being lost in familiar territory. Confused yet? Well I was too.  I had just arrived in London. I'd traveled most of the day from hot and sunny Madrid to wet and soggy...

WEBSITE woes and getting taken

Last month I was on a train in Italy when I received an incoming call from an "unknow number."  Upon seeing that, I cringed and my stomach sank.  You see, I'd had that same "call" on two other occasions while traveling in Europe.  It was from my web hosting company...

Luggage Tampering Made Easy

Last month, I posted a YouTube video showing how easy it is to break into a locked suitcase. Several of you responded with horror stories about stolen items in your locked luggage.  Your best bet is to never check your luggage; carry it on with you. If you let it out...

It’s McGuffin

Historically, people have always butchered my last name.  It's pretty simple, and phonetic too... McGuffin.  Yet all my life it has been pronounced incorrectly.  Here are just a few of the variations:  McGriffin, McGruffin, McGaffin, McGuhhh, McGovern,  and so on. I...

A jacket in the middle of July?

Recently I've been traveling around Ireland.  Today is July 31.  At my home in Florida I see the temperature is projected to be 93 degrees F.  Here in Dublin it is a push to get close to 65 degrees F!  This has been true almost everyday during the last two weeks.  My...

Another pub… more great music

Dublin -- I revisited Fleet Street the last two night because many of you suggested places I should try for Trad music.  Every pub experience was less than par except for "The Palace Bar."  I've put a video link on YouTube and FaceBook.  Check them out for some great...

A Song On Their Lips

Last night I went in search of some real Irish Traditional music in Dublin. I am staying in the trendy Temple Bar area of Dublin. Located in the heart of all the nightlife, I thought it might be easy to find some “trad” music. Temple Bar’s main drag, Fleet Street, is...

Thristy Traveler’s Tour Sign Up

I’ve spent today in the Cinque Terre, one of the destinations on my 2010 Thirsty Traveler’s Tour.Instead of basking in the sun and swimming in the Med, I’ve decided to refine my tour-pricing offer and make an unheard-of and unbeatable deal.I’ll stand by this special...

Here is a Flying mistake to avoid!

When flying I carry-on my bags so they will be with me always and won't get lost.  Today, I was foiled! When fly on a small regional jet you can carry-on your bags... at least as far as the tarmack.  then (with Delta) you get a plane-side check luggage tag attached to...

European Train Travel Hints

European Train Travel Hints

Updated: November 25, 2022 I love to travel by train; it is relaxing, stress-free, convenient and comfortable.  In Europe, there are always easy train connections to zip from one locale to the next.  Over the last eighty years or so Europe has refined train travel...

Packing for a Winter Trip

Last night I packed my bags for a quick trip to Germany and Austria. I'll only be gone five days, so that's not much in the way of packing. During the last few months, I've written posts about my new packing philosophy and how it is affected by a "dressed down"...

Bellagio is Bellisimo

We woke up this morning to crystal clear skies, snow-covered streets, and temps hovering around four degrees F.  After breakfast at the Hotel Hauser, we headed back toward Italy.  The drive back to Varenna was beautiful and took up about two hours. Arriving at the...

So, we ended up in Switzerland

We woke up in Varenna this morning to cloudy skies and sputtering snow.  I had a terrible night of mostly sleeplessness.  I am sure it is due to the extended nap yesterday afternoon and further complicated by the firm bed on which we tried to sleep!  So after...

A View of Varenna

I know you will find this hard to believe, but we slept away the afternoon. By the time I woke it was almost dark, the street lights were on, and the church bells were tolling seven o’clock.  I went out for a stroll looking for a spot for dinner.  Between the town...

I snuck off to Italy

Charlotte and I hopped on a Delta jet bound for Milano yesterday.  Today, we are enjoying the village of Varenna located on the east bank of Lake Como.  The entire idea of this trip began simply enough… find the cheapest airfare to anywhere in Europe and return to...

Toilets, Tubs, and Bidets (Part 2)

TUBS and SHOWERS Bathing is necessary and we tend to take it seriously. I mean, how many of you go more than a day without a bath or shower? Well that's a whole different story in Europe, where daily bathing has just come into vogue in the past few decades. I can't...

WATER and GAS

A few years ago I was hiking in the Alps near Interlaken, Switzerland.  I was doing a little exploring on my  own and checking out some new destinations for my tours.  I decided to "take on" a rather challenging day hike high up in the mountains.  Early in the...

Flying to PISA is a PISA cake!

Saturday I flew on Delta Airlines from Jacksonville, Florida to Pisa, Italy.  The flight happened to be a piece of cake!  I left Jacksonville at 1:00 p.m. and arrived in New York's Laguardia Airport by 3:00, and then took a limo shuttle to JFK.  After a steak dinner...

8-The Paris City Tour Recipe

I’ve been writing about my experiences planning and leading tours in Europe. This was brought on by a friend asking, upon my return from a month of leading tours in Europe, how I liked my recent “vacation”. Don’t get me wrong, traveling and leading tours in Europe is...

Dashing across the Czech border

For the past few weeks I've been traveling around Europe with one of my tour groups. A couple of days ago, I got to visit the only "new" destination for me in my summer travels. One of the drawbacks of being a "tour guide" is that you go to the same locations all the...

6-Attacked by a SMART Car!

I've been writing about my experiences planning and leading tours in Europe. This was brought on by a friend at church asking me how I liked my recent "vacation" there. Don't get me wrong, traveling in Europe is a blast and I wouldn't do it if I did not really enjoy...

5-The first look at Paris

I've been writing about my experiences planning and leading tours in Europe. This was brought on by a friend at church asking me how I liked my recent "vacation" there. Don't get me wrong, traveling in Europe is a blast and I wouldn't do it if I did not really enjoy...

4-Hotel check-in woes

Recently, I've been writing about my experiences planning and leading tours in Europe. This was brought on by a friend at church asking me how I liked my recent "vacation". Don't get me wrong, traveling in Europe is a blast and I would not do it if I did not really...

3-Ok, now we go to the hotel…

Recently, I've been writing about my experiences planning and leading tours. This was brought on by a friend at church asking me how I liked my recent "vacation" in Europe. Don't get me wrong, traveling in Europe is a blast and I wouldn't do it if I did not really...

Jeans and a Sweater

Maybe I need to modify my European wardrobe.  For years I've preached that guys wear solid shoes, khaki pants, and collared shirts.  They are easy to care for, blend in, don't yell "American", and are comfortable.  Now maybe I'm not so sure.  Fashion in Europe is a...

Getting out of crowded Venice

I took my group to Murano today.  Murano is an island in the Venice lagoon and is most famous for finely hand-made glass.  The island is far away from the tourist crowds of Piazza San Marco and is a welcome change, although it is still quite touristy.  Upon arrival we...

Sitting in a Lido Cafe

It is 5:30 on a Monday afternoon.  While writing this entry I wanted to experience life on the Lido di Veneto.  I am in a cafe/bar where it appears to be the local hangout spot.  Sitting next to the canal and under an umbrella, I've got it made with lots of chips and...

The LIDO of Venice #2

With the Lido experiences mentioned in my last post you'd think I would never want to visit the island again! So later, when I began to take charge of my own tours, I tended to stay in hotels located in Venice proper, even though they were twice the price....

The LIDO of Venice

My first few trips to Venice were spent on the Lido. As a young teacher, I enlisted a group of my students to travel with me to Europe, and I relied on a big educational tour company to do all the planning and guiding. This was great because I had no experience in...

The Lido Neighborhood

Staying on the Lido is like becoming a part of the neighborhood. Our hotel is in a residential neighborhood with absolutely no vehicular traffic. Although there are cars on the island, most people travel by bike or by foot. Plus, my hotel neighborhood is so peaceful...

Back in Italy and lovin’ it

I flew into Milan this morning and was off and "running" by nine.  It's an easy bus ride from the airport to Milan's Centrale Station where I was to catch a train later in the day.  But since I had three hours to burn, I decided to take the metro (luggage and all) to...

Fooled by a Gypsy

It’s not often that I get fooled, but this morning I was completely caught off guard by a gypsy mother and her child. It all began as five of us were sitting at our hotel having breakfast.  We’d just awoken from a comfortable night’s sleep and warm shower, and had a...

Exploring Provence

Bonnieux, France I arrived at the very quiet and almost desolate NICE airport at 8:30 this morning.  By 9:00, I was in my rental car and heading away from the sea and into the mountains.  Knowing I would have a few days to explore a little on my own, I began...

The Joys of CHECKING IN

Well I'm on my way to Europe!  I began my journey this morning by leaving my home at 8:00 a.m.  It's an hour drive from home to the the airport, but luckily I had Charlotte with me and she dropped me at the terminal.  Having to park, pay, and ride a shuttle takes so...

Packing my bags and flying to France

I always get excited when it comes to getting ready to travel. Yes, there is that hectic period when I think I'll never get everything done in time to catch my flight. Invariably, once my passport's been shown, I get my boarding pass, and clear security, I always...

Storks and Vins (Vol 1, No. 13)

June 10, 1997 After all the travel yesterday it was nice to sleep in a bit before breakfast. Our hotel is located on the highway just outside Colmar so we really did not have an opportunity to experience the town last night. By 9:00 a.m. we had finished breakfast and...

A Bunch of Kids in Colmar (Vol 1: No. 12)

David’s note - If you are just tuning in, let me get you up to speed here. Back in December, I decided to write about the first big group tour to Europe that I had a part in planning. The year is 1997 and we’re in Colmar, France. June 9, 1997 Finally, we arrived in...

Get off the highway! (Vol. 1 No.11)

David's note - If you are just tuning in, let me get you up to speed here.  Back in December, I decided to write about the first big group tour to Europe that I had a part in planning.  The year is 1997 and we've just traveled all day on a bus from Paris to the Alsace...

1997 French Fries? (Vol 1: No 10)

After lunch we walked back to the bus, gathered up everyone, and headed out of town. Originally our plans were to take the motorway back to Paris and then head south, but the trucker's strike changed all that.  Instead, we took a small two-lane road heading southeast...

1997 Chartres…stained glass! (Vol. 1 No. 9)

"June 9 cont.... After all the traffic associated with the strike we finally made it to Chartres, albeit two hours late.  Chartres is a wonderful little town.  Although the town is centuries old, it is tidy, clean, and well maintained.  The town's main attraction is...

1997 Chartres to Alsace (Vol1:No8)

June 9, 1997 This is our last few hours in Paris.  I am sitting here finishing my breakfast and thinking that today we are going to travel to Chartres and then on to Colmar in the Alsace region of France.  All seems to be going OK this morning, no complaints from the...

Paris 1997…After the concert (Vol1:No7)

"June 8, 1997... After the concert we packed up and had some free time (3 hours) to visit Paris on our own.  Some went to the Orsay Museum and others to the Cluny.  I went to St. Chappelle with Charlotte and Aunt Hilda.    After the concert we had to make a switch of...

Paris 1997…Versailles (Vol1:No5)

I'm chronicling my first "Big Group Band Trip" to Europe in 1997 and trying to draw some comparisons to the Europe travel experience of today.  Continuing my journal entry..... "June 8, 2007 We were awakened by the alarm at 6:20 a.m.  Four hours of sleep didn't quite...

Paris 1997…The Louvre Museum (Vol1:No4)

I'm chronicling my first "Big Group Band Trip" to Europe in 1997 and trying to draw some comparisons to the Europe travel experience of today. Continuing my journal entry..... June 7, 1997 (continued)...  "After lunch we met the bus and went to the Louvre where some...

Paris 1997…The Grand City Tour (Vol1:No3)

I'm chronicling my first "Big Group Band Trip" to Europe in 1997 and trying to draw some comparisons to the Europe travel experience of today. Continuing my journal entry..... "June 7, 1997 The alarm woke me up from a sound sleep at 7:00!  This was the first night...

Paris 1997…A teacher with 30 kids (Vol1;No2)

I'm chronicling my first "Big Group Band Trip" to Europe in 1997 and trying to draw some comparisons to the Europe travel experience of today.  Continuing my journal entry... "June 6, 1997 We arrived in Paris at 9:15 a.m..  After clearing customs we were met by our EF...

It could never happen to me

David's notes:  This was originally posted in July 2007.  I always thought I was good at watching and protecting my stuff when traveling...but a few weeks ago I had a lot of stuff stolen from me. It all started when I set my backpack on the front seat of my tour bus. ...

The Italians are on Vacation

We've found that August is the month for the Italians to take off work and go to the beach.  Walking the streets of any of the Cinque Terre villages, you are more likely to hear Italian being spoken than English.  Normally, when we visit the Cinque Terre it is in May...

JetLag

Normally, when I fly to Europe I am in the working and touring mode.  That's to say that upon arrival in Europe, I usually have to begin leading tours and showing people around.  So to prepare for this I get my "body clock" ready at home by getting up at 4:00 a.m. and...

Back home in the USA

I've been home here in the States for about a week.  I've had to make some mental and physical adjustments.  It may seem odd, but being on the road in Europe for sixty days has been very comfortable.  Yes, I miss my family, home, pets, and bed...but that's about it. ...

Flying in Europe is Cheap and Easy!

Europe is full of economy and discount air carriers.  Almost every major city has a reliable and affordable airline connecting it to other countries.  Yesterday we flew up from Lisbon, Portugal to London on easyJet.  easyJet links about 130 European destinations with...

Venice… off the beaten path

Yesterday my friends and I rode the train up from Rome to Venice.  We have been blessed all summer with exceptional cool and pleasant weather.  Stepping off the train in Venice proved to be no exception.  Where usually I'd be greeted with humid, hot, and muggy...

Picnicing in Bath

Tonight we just finished a 10 day tour of London, Bath, Madrid, and Toledo with a group of eleven teenagers, two teachers and one parent. I must say this has been the most hilarious trip I have ever been on. The group was a perfect mix.  The students got along, the...

Lisbon=Fun!

Hey everyone! Since I have never been to Portugal before I had no clue what to expect. The only thing I did know, was that I couldn't speak, write, or read a bit of Portuguese. My first opinion of the city was that it was very busy with lots of people and speeding...

Lisbon…up and down the town

A few days ago we joined up in Lisbon for my first tour of the summer.  This is a pretty easy gig!  There are six of us touring Portugal and southern Spain for a few days.  The group consists of two old farts (me and Gerry), three guys ages 18-24 (Jay, Ryan, and...

Packing light for the long haul

I'm sitting here at the Atlanta airport with my travel partner, Natalie, waiting for our overnight flight to Edinburgh, Scotland.  The last week has been busy, but I started packing six days ago.  Over the previous weekend I got all my travel gear together.  That...

Dollar Stretching Strategies

Book as much of your trip in US dollars as possible. Search the Web, make some calls, ask your travel agent, ask me. There are a lot of travel providers that allow you to reserve air, hotel, and car all in one transaction using US dollars. Look at Expedia and...

Slow down and enjoy your dinner!

Last night I had a fun time visiting with friends at a Carrabba's Restaurant. We don't get a chance to see much of each other and I wanted to spend a couple of hours eating and talking about our lives, our travels, and what's new. Sometimes that's tough to do at a...

A Grateful Irish Heart

by Susan McInarnay I was fortunate enough to visit Ireland in 2003 and absolutely fell in love with the country. I returned to the US and told one of my best friends, Karen Kelly, that I was going back one day and she was, going with me. I had no idea at the time that...

Irish Memories

by Susan McInarnay Most of my adult life I have dreamed of the day that I would travel to the country of my ancestry. It had been a lifelong dream of my father's that unfortunately died with him. Having the opportunity to travel to Ireland with my sister Debby was...

Truffle Hunting

Umbria lies in the shadow of Tuscany and Latium, its regional neighbors. In fact the closely associated Italian word ombra literally means "shadow." For me, this region certainly is overshadowed by Tuscany, its well known neighbor to the north. For most Americans when...

England as seen from the air

After spending ten weeks in Europe this summer my journal is full of stories about great travel destinations. Most recently, I've returned from England, Wales and Ireland and this month I'd like to share my experiences with you.  Last week I had a two hour flight from...

Sunsets

I was standing in my backyard during the final sunset of 2001. After a full afternoon of yard work and chores, I sat down next to my pond to watch the dusk turn into darkness. The sun had illuminated the western sky with vivid oranges and ruby reds. As I watches the...

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