My friend Kim had use of an apartment in New Orleans’ French Quarter and invited me to attend the Jazz Festival with her. Off I went, anticipating great music, fabulous food, enthusiastic crowds, and heat. Correct on all counts. What I hadn’t imagined were the cooking demonstrations, local crafts (think voodoo), and other activities. The festival was so expansive it … Read More
Curaçao, 2020
In February 2020, just before the start of the pandemic I was in Curaçao enjoying warmth, sun and fabulous street art. I anticipated the perfect weather, had seen photos of the colorful buildings lining the harbor of Willemstad, had even read about the floating pedestrian bridge that opens to allow boats to pass through. What came as a surprise was … Read More
Balinese Food Market
I joined a tour of the local market. Usually, I observe but don’t know what I’m looking at. This time I could find out. “What is that gelatinous, green goop?” I asked. “An herbal drink meant to make you strong. It’s got great medicinal properties. Pregnant women drink a cupful every morning during their last trimester to ensure an easy … Read More
Into the Jungle: Borneo, Malaysia 1992
An excerpt from the new book I’m writing. Leaving the city, we entered into an intense green world. Getting out of the car my glasses fogged. After cleaning them I peered and peered but couldn’t see a break in the dense jungle. “Where are we walking?” I asked. Yi Ling pulled out a short machete with a lethal looking blade. … Read More