Seeking the Lost Symbol in D.C.

For years, popular books have inspired thematic tours all around the world. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series can visit key locales throughout historic England, while devotees of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy can do the same in breathtaking New Zealand. Lovers of Dan Brown’s bestselling novels have even trekked through Europe to experience the sites featured in his stories, from the churches of Rome (as explored in Angels & Demons) to the Louvre in Paris (as highlighted in The Da Vinci Code). more >>

The Fruits of Summer

Autumn has always been my favorite season. As a frequent traveler, I have so many wonderful memories of this transitional time of year – from watching the leaves change color in New England to experiencing wild Halloween parties in Los Angeles. But as much as I adore the cooler temperatures, kaleidoscopic displays, and festive events of autumn, one sacrifice is hard to accept: the availability of certain summertime fruits at their peak.

True, when my husband and I were living in southern California year-round, we found it easy to purchase a plethora of fresh fruit and vegetables at the weekly farmers markets throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Although their pickings were slimmer in the colder months, there were still plenty of delicious items available – especially if you like squash as much as we do. But still, our favorite summertime treats – like peaches, cherries, strawberries, and watermelon – were either less than sweet or virtually non-existent. more >>