By Linda Tancs

Dracula is just so yesterday, as any adolescent movie goer today would likely tell you (think: ”Twilight” and “New Moon”).  I wonder what they’d think of Grando, though.  Legend has it that Jure Grando,  a farmer in the tiny village of Kringa, Croatia, died in 1656 and came back to life in 1672 to wreak havoc on his former neighbors until a stake through the heart ended the bedlam.  Over 300 years later, however, the vampire mystique remains in full throttle in this hamlet of 400 souls in the Istrian peninsula, a Tuscany-inspired vacation destination.  In fact, there’s now a Caffe Bar Vampire in honor of its earlier inhabitant, one of the first bloodsuckers ever to be documented.  Point of interest on the vampire tourism trail to be sure.

By Linda Tancs

You’ve heard the expression:  which came first, the chicken or the egg?  In a similar vein, does art imitate life or does life imitate art?  Well, at Monet’s home and gardens at Giverny in France, the line between art and life is more like a blur.  In fact, when you view the master impressionist’s abode in this village northwest of Paris, you’re likely to feel like you stumbled into one of his paintings.   You won’t find any of his originals on the premises; you’ll need to visit d’Orsay, Marmottan or de l’Orangerie to see those.  But you will find in his garden oasis the blooming water lillies he made so famous.  The house will reopen in April for tours.  From then until 1 November you can observe the changing cascade of color–from springlike pastels to the deep brilliant hues of autumn–that makes his artwork come to life.  Less than an hour away from Paris, buy a packaged tour, drive or take the train to Vernon and then a bus or taxi ride will have you there in 10 minutes or so.  No doubt the still beauty of the place will leave a lasting impression on you.

By Linda Tancs

They’re getting ready for summer in the Southern Hemisphere.  From 20 November to 6 December comes the Pohutukawa Festival in New Zealand, timed to coincide with the flowering of the Pohutukawa trees.  Taking place all around the Coromandel Peninsula (a mecca for vacationing New Zealanders), highlights include the Whangamata Jazz, Art and Blues Festival, celebrating the country’s jazz and blues musicians as well as contemporary artwork.  Also occurring throughout the festival calendar on weekends are dive-related activities for everyone from the novice to the experienced.  Better book now for the best accommodation.  If hotels are sold out, don’t despair.  You can always rent a camper.

By Linda Tancs

New Hampshire’s tourism website says you’re going to love it there.  Well, what’s not to love?  It’s a place for all seasons, and the shopping is tax free.  Learn more about the Granite State at Travelrific® Radio.

By Linda Tancs

Quiz:  Which of the following is associated with Luxembourg?  Tax-free banking or Villeroy & Boch?  Both, actually.  But there are other items of interest in this tiny country bordered by Belgium, France and Germany–the world’s only Grand Duchy (meaning its ruler is a Grand Duke).  In fact, the tourism board lists six great reasons to visit, to wit:  panoramic views at Chemin de la Corniche, a walk through the old quarters, wine tasting in the Moselle Valley, military history, Michelin dining and biking in the Ardennes region.  Worried about getting around?  Take the hop on, hop off bus.  There’s also a miniature train from May to October.  In short, something for everyone.

By Linda Tancs

Did you know that November is National Model Railroad Month?  What better place to celebrate than the Howell Day Museum of Model Railroading in Chattanooga, Tennessee.  Dedicated in 2000, the museum is named for Howell Day, who proposed creating a museum entirely devoted to the history and technology of scale model railroading in 1995.   There you’ll find a replica of his Lehigh Valley “Dorothy” inspection engine and the showcasing of various intricately-detailed exhibits.

By Linda Tancs

The lure of good food and fast cars isn’t lost on the organizers of November’s events in Macau.  Beginning on 13 November, Macau launches its international food festival at Sai Van Lake Square.  Highlights include delicacies zones comprising Asian, European and local cuisines.  On 19 November, sports enthusiasts will gather for The Windsor Arch 56th Macau Grand Prix, headlined by the official FIA Formula 3 Intercontinental Cup.  One of only a few locales authorized to carry the FIA World Championship title, many top drivers annually converge on Macau from around the world.  The Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix, now in its 43rd year, is likewise considered one of the most challenging road races in the world.

By Linda Tancs

Since 1920 the folks at the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference have been developing, protecting and educating the public regarding the myriad of hiking trails in the region–1700 miles of them, to be exact.  With all that acreage, aren’t you glad that someone can help you find the trail that best suits you? Their Web site’s search function lets you find a hike based on difficulty (ranging from easy to moderate to strenuous) and the kinds of features you’re after (like good views, swimming or wheelchair accessibility). You can even volunteer to help build or maintain a trail or engage in fundraising. As the song goes, this land is your land. Mother Earth is counting on you.

By Linda Tancs

Oscar Wilde believed that the secret of life is in art.  The Asian Art Biennial at the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts is examining that interrelationship and its effect on shaping today’s Asia during the Viewpoints and Viewing Points exhibition from 24 October until 28 February.  Fifty-six artists and teams from 20 Asian-Pacific countries have been invited to give their views on the current situations in Asia.  What better place to start than with the diverse host locale of Taiwan, an island of multiple tribes, cuisines and religions.  And now with the Neihu line connecting all of Taipei’s 12 administrative districts, you can explore the island’s largest city with ease.

By Linda Tancs

Rugby fans are heading for Bermuda for the 22nd World Rugby Classic.  Now through the 14th, teams competing for the top spot hail from Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, New Zealand, the United Kingdom & Ireland, South Africa and the USA.  While they’re there, they’ll help celebrate Bermuda’s 400th anniversary on 10 November at the National Sports Center.  A few short weeks later comes the signature anniversary gala on 5 December at Fairmont Southampton.  What you won’t find there during this festive season is Jack Frost–temps remain in the 60s and 70s.  So put your dancing shoes on and come join the party.