Christkindl Markets: Old-World Charm for a Modern Christmas

This year, skip the soulless shopping swarm at the mall and opt instead for a Christkindl market. These gorgeous European-inspired Christmas markets shimmer with handmade crafts, traditional music and dance, and intoxicating old-world holiday delicacies — think glühwein (cinnamon and clove mulled wine), fragrant gingerbread, and Weiner schnitzel. Christmas markets began in the Middle Ages in Germany, …

Post Travels: Sleeping in an Irish Castle

Located less than an hour from Galway, Ashford Castle dates back to 1228. Once home to the famous Guinness family, the historic castle now welcomes guests from around the world. Lovingly restored historic pieces like sparkling chandeliers and silver tea sets ooze castle charm, but modern touches like a cinema with red velvet chairs and …

A Car for the Bricks

Published in the May 27, 1939, issue, short story author Richard Howells Watkins wins over the crowd in his depiction of a cocky racecar driver, Sparrow Earle, who only has eyes for the Indianapolis bricks.

Love, Logic, and Bacteria

She did not just take her hand off the railing and put it on your face, the OCD voice said. Now you’re gonna get a disease. How could she do that? But all she’s doing is showing you affection, the intellectual voice said. There’s nothing there. Can’t you see that? You’ll be fine. You won’t …

Post Travels: Family-Friendly Portugal

Traveling with kids presents a unique set of challenges. Break away from some of the more traditional family-centric locales and it’s even easier to feel overwhelmed long before any flight gets off the ground. Encouraging families to venture outside of their travel comfort zones, Global CommUnity works to highlight the sometimes unexpected family-friendly side of …

Do Something You Like

“Step One: Do Something You Like,” began the first chapter of Meeting People Made Easy. “Join a group with similar interests,” the book continued. Marylou put the book down. At 33, she still hadn’t met “the one.” But when she considered her likes, they all seemed unlikely — a group for pasta eaters? She was …