Blackhawke

Nice starting point, and I certainly want to see the history present in modern day Israel, but I’m actually more interested in the history present in the entire region. Mecca in Saudi Arabia, Bagdad, once one of the most beautiful and advanced cities in the world. . . The list goes on!

Germany reminds me of a great, huge, park. Unfortunately, I was very busy when I was in country. And though I got to tour both the Mosel and Rhine rivers (wine country!), I didn’t get to see nearly enough of this beautiful country, or to meet enough of its wonderful people.

I can’t say that I can recommend the food in Old Venice (do your eating in the new city of Venice), but other than that, Venice in spring or late fall (end of September, first of October) is magical. Saint Marcus Square is, by itself, worth seeing. And by all means sit and have a coffee of your favorite kind and watch the people go by.

But avoid the temptation of taking the boat out to the island to see the glass blowers at work. It’s a waste of money! You can see the same thing right in Venice itself and you don’t have to pay the boatman.

I’ve walked the Trees of Mystery, driven through the scenic redwoods, hiked the Trinity Alps, live within walking distance of the beach, and have dined in some fine restaurants that you’re not likely to find in your travel brochure.

Humboldt County is a great place to visit if you want to “get away from it all” and see some of North America’s most rugged country. But bring everything from bathing suits to wool sweaters because the weather is unpredictible, and usually cool.