I wonder how COVID has affected the French grapes. Let’s be sure to support the vintners as much as we can. That’s one trend I’d love to see in 2021. What trend would you like to see? Or what do you see trending in the new year?

Sparkly European Wines for the Win

Believe it or not, I found this European tour of sparkling wines at Costco. Yes, Costco! This Six Sparkling Nights gift set is perfect present for anyone who loves bubbly. Think of it as six-night tasting tour in the comfort and privacy of wherever the lucky recipient chooses. In front of the fireplace. Around the dining room table. Gathered around the tree. In the kitchen in between batches of Gingerbread Men coming out of the oven. I was happy to get my hands on this 6-pack for $40.

Tumble up to Crystal

I also ordered these beautiful Riedel Crystal Tumblers. Perfect for enjoying wines. You can see the swirl releasing the aroma and drawing the legs on the sides. These might be a little indulgent for barware but not really. Crystal enhances the drink’s taste (I think), and, besides, there are only four of them. I won’t be keeping this beautiful set, a special someone will be adding it to their kitchen or liquor cabinet.

Trending now — RSVP for Chef-Inspired Meals (at Home)

Along with the resolutions, forecasts abound for New Year’s. What will be hot, what will be not. Pinterest sees a trend of at home chef-inspired meals until we can travel safely again. There will be pretty table settings and fancy food plating, too. Hmmm … I’m leaning toward something French to go along with all the Champagne and sparkling wines.

Bon Appétit

In case you are feeling à la française, too, and want to make a festive Christmas or New Year’s dinner, check out these recipes for a holiday feast. I think you’ll be happy adding some French seasoning to your menu.

Embrace Your Inner Armchair Traveler

Probably no surprise but another trend is hypothetical travel. That’s when someone can only dream of a getaway because COVID won’t allow for actual travel. It’s a frustrating and temporary situation, that’s for sure. Let’s look at it as an opportunity for planning and saving up for the adventure. Be sure to let me know where you are planning to travel.

From the Heart, not the Pocketbook

I have shared these favorite finds for you to treat yourself or surprise someone. This isn’t an ad, nor am I an affiliate with any of the companies. If I were, I always write it front and center at the beginning of my articles. I just thought this adorable set of sparkling wines would be a fun gift to have a tasting to bring in 2021. Why not treat yourself since we can’t dine out as often?

I wish you health, happiness, and many adventures in 2021. Be well and stay safe!

P.S. I love one of Pinterest’s trending title: Kitchen is the new Michelin.

The post Gifts for the Champagne, Sparkling Wine, and Bubbly Lover appeared first on Ann-Tran.

Verification Specifics

Maybe you don’t recognize the name Internova Travel Group, but as one with wanderlust, you most likely have connected in some ways with their services. According to company literature, Internova Travel Group holds more than 6,000 company-owned, franchised, and affiliated travel agencies throughout the U.S., Canada, U.K., and Mexico plus a presence in more than80 countries.

Forbes Travel Guide and Sharecare will provide impartiality in judging the procedures and protocols of the hotels booked through Internova’s system (and that would be more than 50,000 properties). The projection is for all the hotels to earn a VERIFIED® health security badge by the beginning of the second quarter of 2022.

Hotels that have earned VERIFIED®

Here’s the beginning of the Seal-of-Approval-received hotels. I bet you recognize some of these luxurious places. They are in no particular order, though I tried to group them geographically.

North America

Baccarat Hotel New York (United States) — Shiny and sparkly in Manhattan, the Baccarat is also very clean! Here are some NYC tips from a previous trip I made. The Baccarat website is here.

Boston Harbor Hotel (United States) — Not only is the hotel sanitary, it offers unbeatable views. Want to check out other Beantown properties? Here are my takes on the Four Seasons and the Fairmont Copley Plaza. The Boston Harbor Hotel website is here.

Fairmont Grand Del Mar (United States) — Need to get this San Diego County destination on my Southwest and/or West Coast itinerary. Here is the Fairmont Grand Del Mar website.

The Hazelton Hotel (Canada) — Toronto is terrific! I was lucky enough to fly the inaugural Toronto – London British Airways Flight. Loved it!  The hotel’s website is here.

The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston (United States) — They do things on a grand scale in Texas. Haven’t made it to Houston yet but I sure loved Austin. Here’s the Post Oak.

Salamander Resort & Spa (United States) — The Salamander Resort is in the great state of Virginia. There is so much variety in Virginia, like colorful wall murals and perfect snapshot settings. I’m very curious about the Salamander Resort & Spa.

The St. Regis San Francisco (United States) — I need a San Francisco fix. I loved my visit when I attended the WIRED event and I interviewed then editor-in-chief Chris Anderson. Info on The St. Regis here.

Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas (United States) — Las Vegas is so much more than gambling and other indoor adult entertainment. There are national parks and lots of outdoor art. I bet the Las Vegas Waldorf Astoria adds a new vibe to Sin City’s famed strip.

Central America

Drake Bay Getaway Resort (Costa Rica) — If you haven’t been, go to Costa Rica. As soon as you can. Birders, this applies particularly to you. Check out these 10 facts about Costa Rica. Here is Drake Bay’s website.

Mexico

Montage Los Cabos (Mexico) — It’s been more than 7 years since I visited Mexico. I need to go back. I had an unforgettable getaway at Azul Sensatori. Here is the website for Montage Los Cabos.

Solaz, Los Cabos (Mexico) — Yet another reason to return to Mexico. It’s a Luxury Collection Resort.

Carribean

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands) — This jewel sits along the island’s Seven Mile Beach. Here is the website.

Asia

City of Dreams –  Nüwa Manila (Philippines) — Gamblers and gamers, you belong here. I yet to have visited Manila. It’s on my list. I’m making do with the hotel’s website now.

The Murray, Hong Kong (Hong Kong) — Combing the best of the Occident and the Orient, Hong Kong is a traveler’s dream. I haven’t stayed at The Murray but check out where I did stay. View The Murray here.

NIHI SUMBA (Indonesia) — This hotel has its own island. Check it out here.

Middle East

Atlantis, The Palm (United Arab Emirates) — Architectural splendor and engineering triumphs wrapped up for family fun in Dubai. Check out these photos for a bird’s eye view of Dubai. The Atlantis website is here.

Australia

Crown Towers Melbourne (Australia) — This down-under beauty calls my name! Maybe it’s the Perfect Pampering tag I saw on the website. Australia is such an adventure, and I plan to go back for more. Check out my Australian Fun Facts and my Australian Phrasebook for Native English Speakers. The Crown Towers website is here.

Europe

The Goring Hotel (England) — London’s calling. We must answer. What to when it rains in London? Look here. Want to visit some gardens? Dig in here. The Goring Hotel website? Right here.

Katikies Mykonos (Greece) — Greece has two VERIFIED® hotels. Need more reasons to visit? How about the Temple of Artemis and Athens. Here is the hotel’s website.

Katikies Santorini (Greece) — Not only do I love Santorini, but Crete, Lesbos, and Rhodes are faves, too. Read more details here. The hotel’s website is here.

Getting back on the travel trail

Slowly but surely, travel is getting back on track. You can read more about the new safety standards here. To see the always growing list of VERIFIED® hotels you can visit Sharecare’s press room here.

Will you be checking to see if your hotel is on the verified list before booking? I think I would feel somewhat safer and sleep better.

What about you?

The post Forbes Travel Guide and Sharecare VERIFIED® Safety Hotels appeared first on Ann-Tran.

Lucketts is a historic three-story building that was formerly a post office and general store. Today, it’s an overly charming retail center filled with inspiration and holiday cheer. I hope you get a chance to visit this season. (For other D.C. photo locales, peruse my article “‘Tis the Season: 10 Reasons to Visit Washington, DC (DMV) for a Perfect Instagramable Moment”.)

2020 has been a crazy year with COVID-19. A visit to Lucketts for a dose of old-fashioned holiday merrymaking to end the year, could be just the thing to get into the spirit of the season.

First, a Little Something for Yourself

I stopped by @GardenGatherings and picked up the beautiful centerpiece. Nature and green-scaping materials are always welcomed gifts.

Christmas centerpiece @GardenGatherings: perfect for a porch or anywhere you need a little hint of the upcoming holidays!

Gifts Galore

Here is a sampling of what you’ll find for stocking stuffers and gifts, not to mention many holiday accoutrements to add warmth to your home.

A Village of Vintage

I really love the whimsical vibe at the Villages of Lucketts. It reminds me of the Christmas markets in Europe where’s more of a handmade-with-love feel versus the mass-produced products of over-commercialization.

Insider Shopping Tips

Though the outdoor shopping areas are quite spacious, the best time to go is on a weekday. I noticed weekends being a bit more crowded compared to my visits last year. The best time may be in the late afternoon, from 3 – 5 p.m. so you can catch the magic hour light for that special Instagram glow. Do check the schedule for business hours, and you will need a ticket for the Design House. For other participating stores, you can freely wander and shop outdoors.

When I visited in mid-November, they were still creating the holiday setting, and I definitely will head back for more ornaments and more worthy Instagram shares. You are sure to find something special here.

And You?

Can you recommend any special outdoor shopping spots? Please share where you escaped during this crazy 2020? I hope you get the best weather to enjoy the coolest vintage hunt ever at Lucketts. Here’s to a great start in lighting your holiday spirit.

The post Best Spots in D.C. for Holiday Postcard Photos appeared first on Ann-Tran.

Add Some French Seasoning to the Holiday Menu

Last year, the chefs from Le George restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel V, Paris shared their favorite Thanksgiving recipes. I thought that would be a fun way to perk up the traditional dinner. These recipes are perfect for making any meal a special occasion. When it comes to food, you can’t go wrong with French, right?

Braised Turkey and Pumpkin Ravioli del Plin

From Chef Simone Zanoni

Ingredients (serves 6)

For the dough

• 550g flour
• 320g egg yolks
• Olive oil as needed

For the stuffing

• 1 turkey thigh (approx. 1.5kg)
• 3 onions
• rosemary
• 1 head of garlic
• 1l chicken broth
• 350ml white wine
• Salt
• Pepper
• 100g parmesan
• 1.5kg pumpkin flesh

To make the dough, mix the egg yolk and T45 flour together until you obtain a smooth and homogenous dough. Cover and leave to rest for 2hr in the fridge, then roll out using a pasta machine.

Drying the pumpkin

Cut the pumpkin into large cubes, place on a baking tray and put in the oven for 1hr at 140C.

Keep 500g of pumpkin and dice into small cubes. Brown in olive oil, salt and pepper. Use the pumpkin to garnish the dish.

Braising the turkey

Brown the turkey thigh in a frying pan, seasoning each side in a little olive oil, garlic and rosemary, then set aside. In an oven-proof dish that is large enough to fit the turkey thigh, sweat the sliced onions over a medium heat, add the golden thigh, garlic and rosemary, and then add the white wine. Bring to the boil for 5 minutes and add the broth, immersing the turkey thigh. Cover and simmer for 1hr.

Once the thigh is cooked through and tender, remove the meat from the bones, keeping the onions and garlic. Place the remaining liquid in another saucepan and reduce.

For the stuffing

Blend the turkey meat, onions, garlic, dried pumpkin, Parmesan, reduced cooking liquid, salt and pepper using a blender/food processor.

Make the ravioli with the rolled-out dough, cook in boiling salted water for 2 minutes. Put some water, a knob of butter and rosemary in a saucepan. Add the ravioli, simmer and stir until the sauce has a creamy consistency. Serve with the seared diced pumpkin.

Butternut Squash and Hazelnut Tart

From Pastry Chef Michael Bartocetti

Makes four tartlets

Sweet hazelnut pastry

• 135g butter
• 85g icing sugar
• 26g hazelnut powder
• 1g salt
• 1 egg
• 225g T55 flour

Combine the butter, icing sugar and hazelnut powder using a flat beater. When the dough has a homogenous consistency, add the rest of the ingredients. Mix until the dough has bound together. Set aside in the fridge.

Roll out the pastry to a thickness of 3mm and cut out circles 14cm wide. Set aside in the fridge and line a 10cm tart tin. Blind bake for 10 minutes at 155C.

 Hazelnut cream

• 50g butter
• 50g caster sugar
• 50g hazelnut powder
• 1 egg

Combine the soft butter and sugar with a flat beater. When the mixture is slightly pale, add the hazelnut powder. Gradually add the eggs.

Candied butternut squash

• 1 fresh butternut squash
• 100g sugar
• 1 vanilla pod

Cut the butternut squash lengthwise into 1cm slices. Put the butternut slices on some tin foil and sprinkle with vanilla sugar. Tightly seal the tin foil and bake for 15 minutes at 200C. Once cool, cut into 1.5cm/2.5cm/3.5cm circles. Set aside any scraps for the mixture.

 Butternut filling

• 350g butternut pulp
• 160g milk
• 6g flour
• 1 egg
• 1g cinnamon powder
• 70g caster sugar

Put the baked butternut squash in a large bowl. Boil the milk. Add the rest of the ingredients to the bowl, then add the milk. Mix together.

 Assembly

After blind baking, add a layer of hazelnut cream and put the tart back in the oven for 6 minutes at 155C.

Pour the butternut mixture into the tin and level the surface. Cook at 140C for about 15 minutes.

Place the butternut roundels at random on a small piece of cardboard and cut out 10cm circles.

Place the circles on the cooled pie.

Decorate with a few rolled strips of butternut, charcoal gavottes biscuits, and purple wood sorrel petals.

Bon Appetit!

Gratitude Is the Attitude — Always!

Our lives have been upended—tumultuously so—in 2020. How have you escaped the chaos? Would love to hear all the different coping strategies. As for me, I agree with environmentalist and author Edward Abbey that wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit. I hope that you have found your solace through nature or other means.

Gratitude is key in strengthening your spirit. I thank you for sharing with me through this year whether in person or through social media, although this year, it’s mostly been social distancing.

I know being outside helps soothe my soul. Follow me on Instastories and now on Twitter ‘fleet’ to tune in with Mother Nature virtually. Perhaps that may inspire you to find your enchantment zone/space. Or we can start saving and plotting our 2021 bucket list travel trip. Maybe we can meet up at Le George at the Four Seasons Hotel V, Paris!

I’d like to leave you with this:

“Don’t wait until the fourth Thursday in November, to sit with family and friends to give thanks. Make every day a day of Thanksgiving!” — Charmaine J. Forde

“In the spirit of the original Thanksgiving, let’s take care of one another this Holiday Season.” — Ann Tran

The post French Recipes for the Holiday Feasts — Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s appeared first on Ann-Tran.

Located in Düsseldorf, Germany, the palace was built as a maison de plaisance. Oxford defines maison de plaisance as a term from the 18th and 19th centuries to describe rural and suburban houses designed as retreats for the wealthy and the nobility. It’s French for “country house,” and translates literally to “house of pleasure.” The Pink Castle was built as a summer residence for Elector Palatine Carl Theodor von der Pfalz (1755-1771), once a King of Bohemia. By all accounts, von der Pfalz rarely made use of Benrath Palace.

Not Your Garden Variety Palace

Benrath Palace’s 61-hectare park may be equally popular as the Pink Castle. I love that more than 300 species of beetles make their home there. I never realized that many species of beetles existed around the world, much less in one area in southern Germany. The beetles probably serve as a smorgasbord for the more than 80 species of birds who nest there. Landscape designers Maximilian Friedrich Weyhe and Peter Joseph Lenné created the Kurfürstengarten (Elector’s garden) in the 19th century. Rare North American shrubbery anchors the greenspace.

But Why Düsseldorf?

Düsseldorf certainly is a catchy name, but why build a Pink Castle there? The once King of Bohemia von der Pfalz also had the title of Lord of the Seven Counties, and Düsseldorf was one of those counties, which were sovereign territories.

The palace’s main building served as the residence with four floors and about 80 rooms. VIP guests stayed in one of the four quarters on the upper floor. Lavishly decorated, the visitor apartments followed the French layout tradition of foyer, bedroom, and cabinet. Plus, a butler was at one’s service. The butler stayed in a nearby room.

The two wings’ original functions included kitchen, housing for staff, and agricultural buildings. An underground tunnel from the wings to the main building enabled service employees to remain out of view.

Much More Than Eye Candy

Architecturally speaking, Benrath Palace’s reoccurring theme is Nature both inside and outside. Sunlight bathes the interior thanks to the many windows. One can’t miss the palace’s exterior as it is painted in pink. Almost Champagne pink, wouldn’t you say? It reminds me of a fancy dessert in a bakery case. The ornate white stucco is the icing on the Rococo exterior’s pink cake.

I was surprised at the quietness of Benrath Palace. It’s the perfect spot for hushed tones of lovers.

All the World’s a Stage

Not only does the Düsseldorf Theatre museum located on the grounds celebrate the performing arts, it serves as a history resource with its archive, museum, and library. This independent theatre is the only institution of its kind in Germany supported by municipal funds. Patrons enjoy a variety of performances on the studio stage, such as children’s theatre, improv, and classics.

I know I say this a lot, but definitely pack a picnic basket and take in their garden views. Summer is a particularly pleasant time, plus there are outdoor concerts. I look forward to being in the audience one day as soon as possible.

If you happen to be in the Düsseldorf neighborhood, make sure to check their 2020 business hours.

The Secret Is Out

Düsseldorf is not the traveler’s secret it once was. It’s a well-known fashion hotspot, as evidenced by its high-styling residents and visitors. I really can see how its reputation has spread since my first visit in December 2014. Nowadays, both the old and new sections of Düsseldorf are teeming with fashionistas of all stripes.

Read more on my Düsseldorf experiences here. I enjoy choosing a city where I can shop, eat, wander and explore simply by walking. For me, walking is the most intimate way to explore a city.

Also, Düsseldorf is so near and dear to my heart because that is where I had one of my career highlights — delivering a TEDx Talk. You can watch it here.

Let me know what you think of Düsseldorf and of the TEDx Talk.

Stay safe. Let’s keep that traveling bug alive. Tell us where you are exploring next.

The post The Pink Castle of Düsseldorf aka Benrath Palace appeared first on Ann-Tran.

A behind-the-scenes story to go along with an image will entertain your readers, whether you are looking for an Instagram inscription for a snow day post or for a wintertime inspirational saying to get into the holiday spirit. Sometimes using a quote as a caption will do the trick, too.

I love the scents of winter! For me, it’s all about the feeling you get when you smell pumpkin spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread, and spruce. ~ Taylor Swift

You Can Quote Me on It

See what I mean about a quote? I think Taylor Swift describes the season perfectly! I’m adding to her list with a few of my favorite wintry sayings and some images from the Washington, D.C. area, which you may want to visit for the ’grams. As I was gathering images for this article, I felt sad that I needed to check if these locations were still open for business due to COVID.

I also included a few other winter-scapes from my travels plus photo shoot tips on wardrobe that I wish I had known before being uncomfortably cold — freezing, I tell you!

Let’s start with some whimsy and fun. Authors are unknown. I wish I could take credit for them.

Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle.

It’s beginning to look a lot like cocktails.

The tree isn’t the only thing getting lit this year 🍷

Up to snow good …

Calling All Snowbirds!

Believe it or not, this photo was taken in Arizona. We escaped from the Washington, D.C. winter right into this Phoenix storm. When stuck in a snowstorm, have a snowball fight for your photo op.

Did you know that the term “snowbird” refers to a person from a cold climate going to a warm climate, like Arizona, for the winter? Goes to show you that in life there are no guarantees, especially with weather.

Winter is not a season, it’s a celebration. ~ Anamika Mishra

The snow is sparkling like a million little suns. ~ Lama Willa

There’s just something beautiful about walking in snow that nobody else has walked on. It makes you believe you’re special. ~ Carol Brunt

When snow falls, nature listens. ~ Antoinette Kleef

No snowflake ever falls in the wrong place. ~ Unknown

Happiness is first tracks on fresh snow. ~ Unknown

We’re all like snowflakes—unique and one of a kind. ~ Unknown

‘Tis the Season to be Freezing. ~ Unknown

These Boots are Made for Warming

Photo shoot tips on wardrobe

The trick to wearing a dress or skirt on a winter day’s photo shoot is to make sure you have thermal pants underneath. Lesson learned!

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes

The above quote really resonates with me. Although I was wearing a hat plus a super thick coat in the above image, the boots were not warm enough for that very windy day by the lake when I toured Scotland in August 2017. One’s feet must be clothed with thick socks and fur-lined boots. I did not have the proper shoes. My shoes were soaked, and I was miserable on that cold rainy excursion. The rain came at me sideways, that was an experience I will never forget.

Christkindlmarkt Fraueninsel was another day without proper warm boots. At the aforementioned Christmas Market, I thought I was set … apparently, NOT so! After that escapade, I have the best boots lined with fur, and, as a bonus, they are super comfortable. I purchased these beautifully designed boots at 50% off after that freezing December 2016 day in Munich. Truthfully, I would have paid full retail, that’s how important the right footwear is.

I used to despise cold weather because of improper wardrobe. I enjoy it now. Yes, when you are warm and comfortable, then …

It’s never too cold for ice cream. ~ Unknown

People don’t notice whether it’s winter or summer when they’re happy. ~ Anton Chekhov

Words of Winter Wisdom

Interesting how a quote comes about; how we each have, in one way or another, experienced the very same situation. Which of the following do you relate to best?

What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.

~ John Steinbeck

I pray this winter be gentle and kind—a season of rest from the wheel of the mind.

~ John Geddes

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome. ~ Anne Bradstreet

Kindness is like snow—it beautifies everything it covers. ~ Kahlil Gibran

This year, I will have to make my own mulled wine, and in some way re-create the joy found in the huge European yuletide markets.

I also will try to make:

-Gingerbread,

-Stollen (sweet cake with fruits and nuts, very rich),

-Marzipan (a sugar and ground almonds confection), and

-A yet to be decided baked goodie with lots of cinnamon.

I’ll be sure to share any recipe secrets with you.

Please enjoy late November, the start of the gratitude season, as well as the rest of 2020. I’ll leave you with this quote of mine.

“Trim the tree, light the menorah candles, stuff the stockings, mix up some eggnog, and sit back for the most ’gram-worthy time of year.” ~ Ann Tran

And to all a good night!

Wishing you a wonderful Holiday Season. 

The post Best Quotes for the Love of Winter and the Holiday Season appeared first on Ann-Tran.

How to Negotiate Any Path

“Humility, gentleness, and helpfulness go so much further and open doors you cannot imagine,” is a quote from the article The Art of Negotiation I wrote back in 2012. The message is still circulating today. I find it also fitting with the extraordinary times we are navigating this year.

Humility, gentleness, and helpfulness go so much further and open doors you cannot imagine. ~ Ann Tran

My Website is My Base Camp

Although I shared my feelings that your site is your base camp, and social channels are extension of communication channels, I didn’t really have the luxury to always practice what I preached until this year. Due to restrictions on traveling, I focused on building content on my own site instead of contributing to other publications.

So much to do and more to learn. That’s my approach to life.

It’s the Quality of Relationships, Not Quantity

At the beginning of my social media journey, I attended many tweet-ups and conferences. I didn’t have that luxury when I started working as a travel writer as I was always on the go from country to country. (And loving every second of it!)

With all the down time due to current travel conditions, I do long for a virtual meet-up with my social media friends. Funny, how we take so many things for granted. It’s not until they’re gone that we miss them.

Virtual Vacay, and That’s OK

For now, we can share our 2020 journeys virtually. This year has been quite challenging, to say the least, but look how well we pivoted. For example, I am having fun exploring the Washington, D.C. area and finding as many outdoor activities to feature for locals to visit and support. In case you are interested, these are NOT the typical findings of other Top 10 lists.

Here are my recommendations in the DMV area:

10 Best Washington, D.C. Gardens – and When to Visit Them

The Ten Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C. — Visit These Monuments

Storytelling is the Path to Engagement

I challenge you to be creative and have fun in the process. I am always running around looking for photo ops. Sometimes the obvious is right in front of us.

Here’s Mine, Show Me Yours

This Fall, I used my own backyard to set the stage to capture the essence of Autumn.

Since we can’t travel now, I figure let’s create a little get-together by asking others to show off their passports. Here is mine …

You can find other representatives on: What’s the Power of Your Passport? Here’s Its Ranking I think you’ll really find this interesting, especially if you are in love with international travel as much as I am. So much global information only a few keyboard clicks away. Enjoy!

Gratitude is the Attitude

Gratitude is key in life, and if we practice this, it will carry us forward. This I know to be true. And so do a lot of other people, like scientists, poets, family members, elected officials, grocery store clerks, and, well, let’s just say people from all walks of life.

It isn’t about just collecting the numbers and metrics because it is pointless if it is just noise. Unless the noise is for positive change for our future. We can do better than “just noise,” though. Lots better.

Stay resilient! We got this! Travel is a state of mind, not a location. For now, our main mode of transportation is virtual, and I am making the best of it. Bon voyage!

The post Travel Quotes: An Inspirational Path for Social Media appeared first on Ann-Tran.

“Depends on the country I plan to visit,” you might answer.

That is true.

The relationships among the world’s governments are complicated and varied. Crossing a continent overland — take Africa or Asia, for example — takes a lot of bureaucratic juggling. That’s why knowing the power of your passport is so important. Best to know just what you can expect at the border so all your travel documents can be in order.

What is your Global Mobility?

All that information can be found at the Passport Index 2020. This treasure trove of information lists 199 destinations, which include 193 United Nations member countries and six territories (ROC Taiwan, Macao, Hong Kong, Kosovo, Palestinian Territory, and the Vatican).

How Do They Figure the Power Ranking?

The Passport Index uses official government information, meaning that the governments of all member countries supply the information, and the Index supplement that’s with their own research.

There’s also a visual library of member countries’ passports. I really enjoyed looking at the different designs and colors and artwork. Honestly, it is fascinating. Impressive too, the way so much data is arranged so simply and so easily digested.

Wondering about Wandering

There’s a new term for wanderlust: Global Mobility. Best to know where you can roam freely before hitting the road. UAE (United Arab Emirates) is rated as the most powerful passport in the world. Its mobility score is 173; Afghanistan is the lowest, with a mobility score of 30. The United States’ rank is 22, tied with Malaysia and sandwiched between Moldova (21) and Singapore (23).

Individual Rankings, too

Germany’s Individual Passport Power Rank is the highest at 166. Sweden and Singapore are very close contenders, but with influences such as the United Nation’s Human Development Index also graded, among other factors, Germany takes top honors.

Germans have a well-deserved reputation as savvy international travelers. Maybe that’s why Lufthansa is leading the airline industry in safety. Read my take on that here.

All this information, and tons more, is a click away: Global Passport Power Rank 2020 | Passport Index 2020.

Fun Facts on Needing a Visa

According to the Web site, Africa has some of the most welcoming countries in the world, meaning travel documents, such as a visa, are not necessary or extremely easy to get.

In April 2018, the Singapore passport rated as the most powerful in the world. However, Singapore only allows travelers from 162 different countries to visit without a visa; so, it placed as number 19 in the Welcoming Countries Rank.

The United States ranks at 66. Information is constantly changing; be sure to check the Web site frequently.

Also, check back here in Spring. Hopefully we can start our wanderlust again. Let me know which countries’ passport you think is the prettiest; also let me know if you are making plans to visit there.

Looking forward to seeing you on the road!

The post What’s the Power of Your Passport? Here’s Its Ranking appeared first on Ann-Tran.

What can I say? Life is gourd, I have nothing but gourd intentions, and without any further ado, here are my 5 favorite spots for gourd vibrations …

New Fall Colors in D.C.

Located in the beautiful rolling hills of northern Virginia, Wegmeyer Farms is definitely my favorite pick-your-own-pumpkin patch. You may know them for their delicious strawberries in the Spring, which I missed this season.

This authentic family-owned farm grows a very unique crop of different colored pumpkins. There are even some baby blues in the harvest, though orange dominates the Wegmeyer Farms palette.

Tickets are required for limiting crowds during coronavirus, allowing for a stress-free experience in the patch. Book early for the best pure experience. Even though we visited on a Saturday at 10 a.m., it was crowd free.

Gourds Galore at Gaver Farm

My second choice is Gaver Farm. I went on a Friday around 2 p.m., and it wasn’t crowded at all. I hear they are a bit busier on the weekend. Gaver Farm offers the perfect patch for all ages. Children laughing and running around adds to the festive feel, and their indulgent grandparents add to the spirit of the soon-to-be-here holiday season.

Tickets and time: Reservations are available only online; no tickets are sold on site. Your scheduled arrival time is the same as your reservation time with some leeway — you can arrive within the hour of your designated time. Example, a 9 a.m. time means you can arrive between 9 and 10 a.m. Visitors can stay as long as they like on the farm (within hours of operation). The number of tickets sold is reduced as the day progresses to ensure the farm doesn’t get crowded.

Out of My Gourd for Hartland Farm and Orchard 

Hartland Farm and Orchard is a gorgeous farm. I previously visited their apple orchards, which have an amazing assortment of apples. On my second visit, the pumpkin patch was pretty picked over. I suggest calling before heading out, although their farm is a beautiful setting for a Fall picnic.

Pumpkins for a Cause

The Immanuel Church on-the-Hill’s Pumpkin Patch is celebrating its 27^th annual fundraiser anniversary. It was my first visit and quite convenient if you don’t want to drive too far from the city. Located in Alexandria, Immanuel Church-on-the-Hill sells pumpkins of all sizes and shapes to earn money. Prices start at $1 and climb as high as the pumpkin is large. Homemade soups, baked goods, knit wear, and other seasonal items are also available. Social distancing was respected here along with mandatory masks. I only took my mask off for a quick photo.

The fundraiser goes through Oct. 31. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, noon to 6 p.m. Weekend hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is no admission charge. I went early on a weekday to avoid the crowds that came later as I was leaving around 3:30 p.m.

Variety is the Vibe

The Nalls Produce collection of pumpkin varieties is one of the best I’ve seen. I actually love it and the beautiful display. Their displays are enchanting all throughout the year. Be sure to check out the peaches when they are ripe or spend a few afternoons poking around for ideas for your garden — Nalls is always perfect for taking a pic for the Gram. Believe it or not, Nalls has been serving Franconia farmers and gardeners for more than 50 years. The staff expertise and friendly advice alone is worth the visit.

Betcha Didn’t Know That …
American farmers grow more than 1.5 billion pounds (yep, B as in billions) of pumpkins a year.

In no particular order, the states with highest orange gourd counts are Pennsylvania, Ohio, California, Indiana, and Illinois.

Pumpkins are a fruit not a vegetable. They are from the seeds of a flowering plant. A vegetable is from an edible part of the plant, like roots, stems, and leaves.

Pumpkins, and gourds in general, are considered a New World food and are native to North America. It’s no surprise that they are a Thanksgiving tradition. I bet they were part of the Pilgrim’s first feast. Maybe not in pumpkin pie form, but definitely pumpkin was on the table.

I hope you will get to enjoy your local pumpkin patches or can visit one of these locations. These are my best five finds this season. Perhaps, I can expand my list next year. Let me know of any I should add.

Gourdbye!

The post Fall Vibes at These 5 Pumpkin Patches in the D.C. Area appeared first on Ann-Tran.

I love how October includes bold colors and wardrobe changes along with its subtle signs of a steaming hot drink or the smell of something baking in the oven.

How do we celebrate the deliciousness of Autumn? For starters, there are edible pumpkin-spiced everything to pumpkin patches (recommendations for the Washington, D.C. area coming soon).

For now, here are my recommendations for the best photo spots to tour in the Washington, D.C. area.

The underfoot crunching of a leaf-strewn path provides a seasonal soundtrack, my steps keeping the beat. That’s what motivated me to share 25 quotes celebrating this time of the year.

Let’s get started with the first quote:

Steer me to an autumn path to travel all alone. Fall leaves the finest company; rustling in my heart like home.  Autumn whispered to the wind, ‘I fall; but always rise again.’ 

~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

Color Me October

My favorite color is October. The swirl of golds and reds delights me. To me, they are one hue. What about you? Tell us your favorite seasonal shade.

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and autumn a mosaic of them all.

~ Stanley Horowitz

Autumn paints emotion like no other season. ~ unknown

Autumn colors my soul in the loveliest shades. ~ unknown

The Fall season dresses up in gold, the richest season of the soul.

~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

Summer said in shades of blue, ‘Let me be young a few days more.’  ‘Walk forward,’ Autumn whispered. ‘There’s a colorful horizon to explore.’ ~ unknown

Leaf Whisperers & Dancers

It’s funny how, and why, Fall is so popular. I don’t think I have ever heard a negative word about it. I think it’s because the season engages all the senses in a pleasurable way.

 “Anyone who thinks fallen leaves are dead has never watched them dancing on a windy day.”

~ Shira Tamir

 Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree. ~ Emily Brontë

 Autumn whispered to the wind, ‘I fall; but always rise again.’ ~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

Autumn flew with fire and sun until her last breath was said and done. ~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

Twirl me into Autumn’s wind, as leaves fly dressed in precious gems. ~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

As I travel, an Autumn wanderer, my heart flutters in leaves of gold. ~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

I can smell Autumn dancing in the breeze. The sweet chill of pumpkin and crisp sunburnt leaves.

~ Unknown

Autumn. Time to dim the sunlight, cue the moody fog, and watch nature’s most charming story unfold.

~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

Autumn: The Seasonal Timekeeper

Mother Nature’s wristwatch. That’s one way I imagine Fall, with the angle of the sun serving as the hour and minute hands. Time to harvest the fruits of a year’s labor and settle into the sleep of Winter.

A friend you are, sweet Autumn day; to never falter, in my soul you stay. ~ unknown

And all at once, Summer collapsed into Fall… ~ Oscar Wilde

Autumn arose and my spirit bloomed. ~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

Believe in your Fall. It’s paving a new way for your climb. ~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

Leaves are falling. Autumn is calling. ~ Unknown

Reaping What Was Sown

To me, this time seems like the New Year. Beginning anew, we put away the warmer months, readying for the fresh start waiting around the corner from us.

Autumn is the mellower season, and what we lose in flowers we more than gain in fruits.

~ Samuel Butler

Nature gives to every time and season some beauties of its own. ~ Charles Dickens

When Autumn’s work is nearly done, charmed trees fall asleep; Old Man Winter comes. ~ unknown

I hope you’ll be able to enjoy the bounty of Fall

I hope you’ll enjoy the bounty of Fall — photography, a nature walk, time with loved ones, and some solitude. Regeneration and renewal are sure to follow.

And we fall, one by one; but together we sure danced with the sun. ~ Angie Weiland-Crosby

For the last quote, I’d like to offer a piece of advice:

 “Make sure to enjoy the autumnal sunshine that nature has been saving up all year for the grand finale.” ~ Ann Tran

Here’s When Fall Foliage Will Peak Around the DMV

Staunton: October 12

Luray: October 12

Winchester: October 12

Rappahannock County: October 19

Mount Vernon: October 19

Charlottesville: October 19.

Shenandoah National Park: October 19.

Old Rag Mountain: October 19

Harper’s Ferry: October 26

Great Falls Park: October 26

Frederick: October 26

DC Arboretum: October 26.

Rock Creek Park: October 26.

Their sliding peak foliage tracker predicts when the leaves will be their most colorful in any given area.

The post 25 Best Fall Quotes to Celebrate the Season appeared first on Ann-Tran.