In 1987, I visited the island of Hawai'i for the very first time. My mother and I decided to join other family members on the vacation of a lifetime. Hawai'i had always been my mother's dream vacation, so she was eager to go. Being seven years old at the time, I don't remember much about that trip with a few exceptions. One notably was having to wrap a hula skirt around my neck because I was too short for it to go around my waist.

There's always something new to do in Palm Springs, California and this trip was no exception. The Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza is the new museum downtown just opened and show cases the fascinating history and culture of the tribes in this area.

Who said gay bars are dead? DC has no less than five new bars with more coming. I sampled a few on my recent visit to the DC/Virginia/Maryland metro area (DMV in DC speak) and checked out the Union Market food hall, walked with the Frontrunners up beautiful Stone Creek Park, and went to the Sunday farmer's market in Dupont Circle. I worked out at the new Gold's Gym on Connecticut Avenue as well. And I toured the Capitol and watched the Senate in action. Finally, I went to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. You cannot beat the off season in DC. The crowds of school kids are gone, the museums are quieter, and there is so much to do.

Beaches, great food, a friendly welcoming culture, and lots to see and do in a city founded five hundred years ago make San Juan, Puerto Rico perfect for a holiday. Best of all, it's so easy: no passport needed, your phone and phone plan work, and everyone speaks English as well as Spanish. Did I mention the good coffee and rum?

Erie, PA - HAIRSPRAY, Broadway's Tony Award-winning musical comedy phenomenon, comes to the Warner Theatre for two performances January 10 - 11, 2024. Performance times are Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30PM. Tickets go on sale THIS FRIDAY, November 17th beginning at 10AM. Tickets will be available online at BroadwayInErie.com, in person at the Erie Insurance Arena Box Office, and by calling the box office at 814.452.4857.

Erie, PA: This holiday season, VisitErie is promoting Experiences from Erie, a holiday gift initiative that encourages shoppers to make short work of their long gift lists and give the gift of a memorable experience. Featuring a variety of unique gift experience ideas, discounts, and special packages designed exclusively for this promotion by Erie-based businesses, Experiences from Erie includes tastes of local flavors, hands-on experiences, and enjoyable family outings. The promotion runs November 14 through December 31, 2023.