Ready to jet from Paris for the weekend – fast?! Take the TGV, which is a world-record speed holder train, heading from city to city at up to 200mph. Hubbed in Paris, the TGV (pronounced tay-jzay-vay) is a train system that is an economical way to explore Europe – all within a few hours travel time.

The Ring of Kerry is the most beautiful drive in the world – and also, one that can be crowded, especially with tour buses. Yes, EVERYONE wants to see the Ring of Kerry! But did you know that right off the Ring of Kerry is a 20 mile drive along Ireland’s coast that is JUST as beautiful?

You've heard the stories - narrow roads, driving on the left, cows and sheep, cliffs of insanity, busted hubcaps, and the ever-present tour buses. Yet driving in Ireland can be done - and can infinitely improve your travel experience, as you can see things that most travelers aren't able to.

Ah, the Emerald Isle. It’s a place of visual perfection, of green vistas, rainbows, and landscapes so beautiful that you have to pinch yourself that it is real, and you are HERE. But there’s one caveat – those Irish roads. Well, two caveats – driving on the other side of the road, and those Irish roads.

Magic.

When I look at Elena Feret's work, I fall deeply in love with her art, world, and the magic she creates - and represents. From marvelous creatures to a worldview that takes us deep into the imagination, Elena's extraordinary art inspires, gives joy, and brings an enchantment to our lives. When I first saw her art, I KNEW that she was special and that her talents needed to be shared!

What's the shoulder season, you may ask? It's that sweet spot between high season and low. It's also a great price break from high season prices, and low season bargains. Travel+Leisure magazine has a great slideshow on Shoulder Season Travel Secrets, with details on places to go, when.

Cedar Point – The World’s Best Amusement Park?! Why yes, indeed, it is…not only because of the 19 world-class roller coasters, or because it has been named that for the last 18 years, but because it’s just awesome.

You're in the right place - Michigan's Sunset Coast (aptly named, for the gorgeous sunsets!). The beaches on Lake Michigan are clean, sandy, and very swimmable. There are excellent restaurants, extraordinary artists, great music, and plenty of outdoor activities. It's my favorite place, in the whole world.

I'm elated to share the extraordinary art of Rachel Alvarez, a native of Salisbury, Maryland. She received her BFA in Painting and Photography from Salisbury University in 2002. Her original work has been exhibited at a number of local galleries, and her prints, notecards, and decals can be found in shops across the United States. Her work is inspired by her 2 children. Each piece in her collection was completed during their nap times and reflects her family’s love for backcountry drives, beach outings, and hikes in the woods.

Let's face it - a family vacation isn't the ideal setting for romance. But with a few thoughtful gestures, romance can still be alive and well, despite the rigors of travel and the exhaustion of caring for your kids in a new locale. Here are ten tips for keeping romance alive while you're traveling with your family.