After reading Diana Baur’s post entitled Forty Things I’ve Learned in Italy, I couldn’t help but be inspired to write my own.

Stratford’s indie theatre and arts festival is celebrating its sixth season with a line-up of more than 40 artists and companies. Running from May 12 to 22, SpringWorks 2016 features an eclectic mix of theatre, music, dance, poetry and visual art. Following a successful launch last year, the SpringWorks Puppet Festival will return on Victoria Day weekend.

There’s nothing that enhances a travel experience more than being the recipient or the initiator of a random act of kindness. It’s what we hold onto most dearly when we reflect on our visits to foreign lands, long after the memories of sculptures and monuments fade. In my years of world travel, I’ve had the pleasure of being on the receiving end of many unexpected displays of good will—by a local resident, perhaps, who offers to walk with me to my destination. I love returning the favor, whether I’m traveling abroad or I’m at home in Los Angeles.

Florida Culture for the Week of April 18, 2016 by Josh Garrick

Florida Culture for the Week of April 11, 2016 by Josh Garrick

Hostelling International's 2-week program seeks 4 American participants

The sun beats down on my shoulders as I stroll casually down the waterline. Small, fragile, shells crunch beneath my feet, and grains of sand work themselves between my toes. I can hear birds calling, and children shouting and laughing. I pause to bend over and pick up a shell. All along the beach, shells are piled along the wrack line. Sanibel Island is one of my favorite places in the world, and the shells are part of the reason.

The Lake District is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful UK travel destinations, with its sparkling lakes, rugged mountains, and vast expanses of lush greenery making it the ideal natural retreat. With some 15 million visitors a year, protecting and sustaining the region is crucial, and something that local organizations are truly committed to.

Florida Culture for the Week of April 4, 2016 by Josh Garrick