On Our Way To Mxico To Spend The Weekend For This Amazing Guys Birthday. How Lucky Am I? As We Settle

On our way to México to spend the weekend for this amazing guys birthday. How lucky am I? As we settle into what only god knows what our new normal travel will look like, we are happy to be going at all. Let’s see what Cancún has in store for us shall we?

What can I say, 🤷🏼🤙🏻…..México

As the new year unfolds 2021 is starting to look a lot better than 2020. We loaded up our bikes for the 1st time this year (with full entions of doing this on the regular) and headed down to beautiful Sarasota Florida to do the bayfront bike trail, we went off script a little bit and took a detour through downtown. What an amazing area Sarasota is, we absolutely fell in love with this quaint and charming little town, Who knew that this area had so much to offer, not only does it have the Ringling Museum, but also a timeless and magical waterfront community. We stopped for lunch, and we’re wowed by Duval’s Fresh restaurants amazing food (a must if you are in Sarasota). We look forward to having many more adventures in amazing areas like this. If you haven’t already sat out on an adventure for 2021, I encourage every single person to do so. Too long have we been cooped up in our homes, too long have we been listening to the rhetoric, let’s get out and do some thing, Go somewhere, live your life. And remember you are the master of your fate.

Eastern European Escapade Part 4

The car’s packed, the playlist is set, and our hearts are racing with anticipation. We’re continuing our adventure and heading to Austria! From the stunning Alpine landscapes to the rich cultural heritage, we’re ready to explore every corner and create unforgettable memories. Buckle up—this journey promises to be incredible! Can you tell I'm excited?

Who better to welcome us to Austria but Mozart.

Here’s a fun fact about Vienna: Vienna has a unique tradition known as “Wiener Schnitzel,” but did you know that it has been a part of Viennese culture for centuries? Rumor has it that the dish is believed to have originated in Vienna in the 19th century, but its roots go back even further. The traditional Wiener Schnitzel is made from veal, and its preparation and presentation have become a hallmark of Viennese cuisine. If you’re a fan of food, you have at least try an authentic Wiener Schnitzel in Vienna is a must!

Here's a fascinating fact: Empress Elisabeth of Austria (known as Sisi) and Marie Antoinette were indeed related. Sisi was Marie Antoinette’s grandniece. Sisi's mother, Duchess Ludovika of Bavaria, was the sister of Marie Antoinette's husband, Louis XVI. So, while they never met, these two iconic women from history shared a family connection through their royal bloodlines! Also, a Palace!

Belvedere Palace

Belvedere Palace in also like the Louvre is known for its stunning art collection, particularly its impressive array of Austrian art. The palace houses two main museums: the Upper Belvedere and the Lower Belvedere, both showcasing masterpieces from different periods.

Upper Belvedere:

Gustav Klimt: The Upper Belvedere is home to Klimt’s iconic "The Kiss" (1907-1908), one of the most famous works of the Art Nouveau movement. This masterpiece, with its intricate gold leaf and sensual portrayal, is a highlight of the collection.

Egon Schiele: You’ll also find works by Schiele, a protégé of Klimt, known for his raw and expressive style. His pieces often explore themes of human emotion and form.

Lower Belvedere:

Baroque Art: The Lower Belvedere features a collection of Baroque art and architecture. It includes works by artists like Johann Michael Rottmayr and the magnificent frescoes by Luca Giordano that decorate the palace’s ceilings.

Medieval and Renaissance Art: It also displays a range of medieval and Renaissance pieces, showcasing the evolution of art through the centuries.

The Belvedere Palace itself is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, designed by Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt. The stunning gardens and the palace's design complement the exceptional art collections housed within.

In the heart of Austria lies Salzburg, a city where history and melody intertwine seamlessly. Nestled between rolling hills and the majestic Alps, Salzburg is famously known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Its baroque architecture and charming streets feel like a living museum, taking visitors back to a bygone era.

But Salzburg’s fame extends beyond its classical roots. In the early 1960s, this picturesque city became the backdrop for one of cinema’s most beloved musicals, The Sound of Music. The film’s enchanting scenes, from the hills alive with the sound of music to the picturesque Mirabell Gardens, were shot here, capturing the city's serene beauty and adding a touch of Hollywood magic to its historic charm.

Visitors today can follow the footsteps of Maria and the von Trapp family, exploring iconic filming locations such as the Nonnberg Abbey and the stunning Leopoldskron Palace. As you wander through Salzburg’s cobblestone streets and lush gardens, you can’t help but feel a sense of timeless wonder, where music and history harmoniously blend into an unforgettable experience.

As a sibling to three sisters I’m thankful for this legendary warrior. We’ve lost a titan, Rest In Peace RBG

Embarking on a road trip along the North Coast 500 (NC500) in the stunning Scottish Highlands is a dream come true for any avid traveler. The NC500 offers a breathtaking journey through some of Scotland's most picturesque landscapes, from rugged coastlines to towering mountains, with the promise of kind-hearted locals, thrilling roads, historic castles, tranquil lochs, fine whisky, and delicious food along the way. Imagine a trip where every day feels like a postcard-worthy adventure, and you've got the NC500.

The North Coast 500 is a 516-mile circular route that starts and ends in Inverness. The journey takes you along the coast, offering an ever-changing panorama of breathtaking scenery. The route passes through quaint villages, historic towns, and remote wilderness, providing a well-rounded experience of the Scottish Highlands.

One of the highlights of our NC500 adventure was the incredible weather we experienced. Scotland is notorious for its unpredictable climate, but we were fortunate to have mostly sunny and clear days. This meant that we could fully appreciate the mesmerizing landscapes, from the azure waters of the North Sea to the emerald green fields and dramatic mountain ranges.

The Scottish Highlands are not just known for their natural beauty but also for the warmth of their people. Everywhere we went, we encountered friendly locals who were more than happy to share their stories and offer helpful advice. Their welcoming nature made our journey all the more memorable.

For those who enjoy the thrill of the open road, the NC500 doesn't disappoint. The route is dotted with winding, narrow roads that snake through the countryside, offering a truly exhilarating driving experience. The famous Bealach na Bà, a steep and winding mountain pass, is a highlight for adventure-seeking drivers. Each twist and turn reveals a new breathtaking vista.

No trip to Scotland would be complete without exploring its rich history, and the NC500 offers plenty of opportunities to do just that. We visited historic castles like Dunrobin Castle and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, set against the backdrop of sparkling lochs and lush landscapes. It felt like stepping back in time.

Whisky lovers will be in their element along the NC500 route. We stopped at several distilleries to sample some of Scotland's finest single malts. From the peaty flavors of Islay to the smooth Speyside varieties, each distillery had its unique character and charm. It's an excellent way to appreciate Scotland's national drink in its homeland.

Foodies will relish the chance to savor traditional Scottish dishes on this journey. We indulged in hearty meals like haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as freshly caught seafood in coastal villages. And let's not forget about the famous Scottish breakfasts that kept us energized for our daily adventures.

Our road trip along the NC500 in the Scottish Highlands was nothing short of magical. With perfect weather, warm-hearted locals, thrilling drives, historic landmarks, whisky tastings, and mouthwatering cuisine, it's a journey that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. If you're seeking an unforgettable adventure that combines nature's grandeur with cultural richness, the NC500 is the perfect route to explore. It's an experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the wonders of Scotland's Highlands.