“Come Wonder Around” the Detroit Institute of Arts with OPC Leisure Travel on Sunday, September 15, 2013. The trip departs OPC at 9:00 a.m. and returns at 3:00 p.m. Upon arrival at the DIA, you will enjoy a reception with baked goods and coffee, then explore the galleries with a self-guided tour, visit the DIA gift shop, and if you wish, treat yourself to lunch at the CaféDIA. If you are 50 years of age or older, and a resident of Rochester, Rochester Hills, or Oakland Township, we would … [Read more...]
European Waterways: Legends & History from Amsterdam to Vienna
Experience the visual history and legends from Amsterdam to Vienna on Tuesday, November 13th at 7 p.m. at the Rochester Hills Public Library. Al Eicher will take you on an adventure in European history that begins in Amsterdam with a Canal Tour of the city. Our river boat “The River Melody” will be your floating hotel and dining room for this 15 day journey. We visit 23 cities and villages along the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers. The adventure recorded in the High Definition television format … [Read more...]
Ireland, Costa Rica, and Italy
My Favorite Destinations As a travel writer, I'm often asked "Where is your favorite place to visit?" And the funny thing about travel writers is that they really don't have one place that is their favorite. We have many, and for different reasons. I usually answer with Ireland, Costa Rica and Italy. Sometimes I answer, "wherever I go next" or "anywhere I haven't been," but I'm sure you want more detail about my responses. Ireland for the People The Irish are super friendly; Ireland … [Read more...]
Finding Friends to Enjoy the Joys of Summer
Hiking through thick woods and setting up camp in the twilight is all worth it when the stars come out and dot the night sky. Kicking a soccer ball past the fingertips of the goalie makes your racing heart beat even faster. Zipping across a peaceful Michigan lake in a kayak for the first time calms the soul. All you need now is a group of like-minded individuals to share the adventure with. Both traditional organizations and Internet groups provide that opportunity. Metro Detroit Athletes … [Read more...]
Best Travel Guidebooks
One of the most important items for your vacation is the travel guidebook. While you may search through the various editions at your local public library for destination ideas, you will want to purchase a new guidebook for the trip. Travel changes often: restaurants close, new hotels open and prices go up. So, use that Barnes & Noble gift card you received during the holidays and travel to the bookstore before you hop on the plane. Travel guidebooks average $30 each. Buy as many as you … [Read more...]
Travel Trends and Hot Destinations for 2012
We all love to travel. For a while now we’ve been held back by the economy, high gas prices, and unrest around the world. Staycations (or close to home vacations) are nice, but they just don’t seem to cut it anymore. Travelers are on the lookout for new getaways and fresh takes on the classic hot spots; and they feel the need start traveling again. Winter travel is nearly sold out according to Cathy Daldin of Shamrock Travel (248-656-3500) on Main Street in Downtown Rochester. “Travel is up,” … [Read more...]
Visit the U.S. Virgin Islands this Winter
Get Ready to Go! Pack your camera, sunglasses, sunscreen (and that new bathing suit you bought in the spring that you did not use enough of this summer) and be ready for hot sun, warm water and cool drinks. Daily non-stop flights are available from Detroit. You’ll land on St. Croix or St. Thomas, the two bigger islands, and claim your bags. No immigration and no customs to go through, but you will have to prove you’re American when you leave. So take your passport or birth certificate and … [Read more...]
Amelia Island at 8 MPH
Have you ever been on a Segway? Do you know what a Segway is? A trip to Amelia Island Plantation is one of those destinations where visitors can try one. The Plantation is “Florida’s premier island resort." It is located off the state's northeast coast and should be a consideration when planning your winter vacation. You have most likely seen a Segway on television. They are those funny-looking transportation devices that policemen in big cities use. You may also have seen a security guard in … [Read more...]