I’ve joined the pickleball craze and now my paddle is a must-pack item for every vacation! This exhilarating sport, a dynamic blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, adds a unique thrill to any trip. Pickleball has taken the nation by storm, captivating both the young and the young-at-heart. Discovering Pickleball Communities on the Go On a recent vacation, my family and I discovered an amazing pickleball community right at our resort, where the courts buzzed with energy and camaraderie as we joined games with fellow travelers, feeling instantly at home. Pickleball’s appeal spans generation ..read more

When you find yourself with a touch of wanderlust but you only have a three-day weekend, consider heading west toward the gorgeous westernmost ridges of the Appalachian Mountains, to Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands.  Named for the native mountain laurel understory shrubs that grow and then bloom in late spring/early summer at higher elevations in the area, this gorgeous native plant is also the state flower of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Covering three counties, the Laurel Highlands is 3,000 square miles of spectacular scenic vistas, no matter which season you go and explore.  ..read more

Pittsburgh’s past as an industrial hub is still evident throughout the city. However, there is also significant evidence that the metropolis has been and continues to be a center of creativity. After all, Andy Warhol was born and raised here. Yet, something that might not be on the radar of the slew of visitors the city sees daily is a site simply known as Randyland. Randyland is nestled in the historic North Side neighborhood. This part of the city dates back to 1784 and was once known as the City of Allegheny before being annexed by the City of Pittsburgh in 1906. Spanning about 36 blocks ..read more

Nestled just a stone’s throw from the hustle and bustle of Washington, D.C., Great Falls National Park in Virginia offers an exhilarating escape into nature’s grandeur. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, an enthusiastic photographer, or simply someone in need of a serene day trip, this park is the perfect destination. Roaring Waters and Scenic Views The crown jewel of Great Falls is, undoubtedly, the falls themselves. As the Potomac River surges over rugged rocks, it creates a series of breathtaking cascades that will leave you awestruck. The park’s three main overlooks offer spectacular vantage ..read more

The award-winning Folger Theatre in our nation’s capital bridges the arts and humanities through transformational performances and programming that speak inclusively to the human experience. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Karen Ann Daniels, Folger Theatre continues its legacy through exciting interpretations and adaptations of Shakespeare and expands the classical canon through cultivating today’s artists and commissioning new work that is in dialogue with the concerns and issues of our time. Folger Theatre thrives both on its historical stage and in the community, engaging audience ..read more

The Appalachian Trail stretches some 2,200 miles along the East Coast from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Mt. Katahdin, Maine. The Trail was first conceived in 1921 and completed in 1936 under the auspices of the Palisades National Park Commission. Since its completion, the Appalachian Trail has attracted numerous hikers seeking adventure along its iconic path, which meanders through a diverse landscape, providing a one-of-a-kind experience for those who undertake the full journey. This renowned trail boasts 250 shelters and campsites scattered along its route, providing essential rest stops f ..read more

Whether you’re going away for a long weekend or coming back from a winery, you’ll love knowing that your favorite bottles of wine are along for the ride — and safe from breakage. The VinGardeValise by FlyWithWine is a line of tough suitcases designed with dense foam inserts to cradle and protect wine bottles.   The VinGardeValise suitcase is a must-have for wine lovers who refuse to leave their favorite bottles behind! It’s like having a VIP seat for your vino wherever you go. This clever piece of luggage doesn’t just carry wine; it cradles it with love ..read more

Photo Gallery No beach vacation is complete without a day spent soaking up the sun and surf! The water is invitingly warm and crystal clear, perfect for leisurely swims. Who can resist the allure of the gentle waves, which provide just the right amount of excitement. During the high tide, the rock formations on the north end of the island add an extra layer of intrigue, with waves crashing over and literally blowing up through them, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. For those craving adventure, embark on a paddle boarding excursion and experience crystal clear water and get an up-close loo ..read more

We are headed to the beach for a warm spring day in May and the only thing we are bringing is the Playamigo! Plenty of room for a beach towel, a good book, snacks and water (or another tasty beverage), sunscreen and cool shades. There’s room inside the main compartment to hold it all! The inside compartment also includes a removable zippered pouch that helps protect our valuables and elastic straps will keep other items in place. The large padded pocket on the back can accommodate a laptop, tablet, magazines and newspapers. Zippered exterior pocket ..read more

Let’s go back in time to when a tomato paid your way to the hottest show in town (and not because the director feared you’d throw it at the cast). A time before ticketing apps or scalpers, QR scanners, or screens. When entertainers weren’t accessible at your fingertips but solely sought out in their communities in real-time at local venues.   In the humble beginnings of the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Virginia, “trading a ham for Hamlet” wasn’t uncommon, meaning this renowned theatre does get its name from its bygone, unique admission “prices.” Founder and Actor Robert Port ..read more