Phabulous Philly

New York City to Philadelphia and back in one day? Easy.

An early morning Bolt Bus, cheesesteaks at Jim's, frozen custard at Rita's, a peek at the Liberty Bell, a photo-op on the "Rocky" steps, a quick tour of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, an afternoon beer outside at Rittenhouse Square, a bite to eat at a local pub and a bus back to New York City.

DONE.

Dulce de leche and lost in translation

I explored Paraguay and Argentina for 10 days in May, sampling every steak and baked good dripping with dulce de leche along the way. This was by no means a relaxing vacation (aside for a half-day of pampering in Asuncion), but a fabulous whirlwind trip filled with sightseeing, shopping, a birthday celebration, late nights and early mornings. I was lucky enough to be in Paraguay for the 200th anniversary of independence (bicentenario), which meant concerts and fireworks every night and that the city was decorated in their patriotic red, white and blue. A few highlights: