So many of the stories we hear about travel in Africa are focussed on the Eastern and Southern parts of the continent, including Kenya,Tanzania, Namibia, and South Africa. I was based in West Africa for just over two years in the early 2000’s and had some great experiences, both with work and for leisure.

If I look back, I can remember several situations in my past that put me in a terrible distress, sadness and pain. But I also remember the incredible joy of living a new adventure , the thrill for a new love, the satisfaction for new achievements. Having that in mind, now more than ever, I am certain that a true Rebirth is waiting for me at the end of this epic moment.

The high level of economic wellbeing in Etruscan society meant that, already in the Archaic period (from the 6th century BC), women began to "leave" the home to participate more actively in public life…Unlike a Grecian Penelope and Andromache, Etruscan women were not satisfied with waiting patiently at home for their spouse to return but rather legitimately took part in all the pleasures of life.

This past March 8th, I was wondering about the importance of this celebration and the role of women in the western society and all over the world. Looking at the sad figures of domestic violence , abuses , murders perpetrated by husbands, boyfriends and fathers over women, a deep, disheartening feeling hits me like a punch in the stomach.

Like most, I can remember a few teachers who have been influential in my life…Yet for me there is only one who, with hindsight, played a pivotal role in the direction my career would take—the Pole Star by which my life would be navigated.

Margaret Reid Farmer, my Granny,  was born on 26 October 1875 in Lochee, Dundee. Her mother registered the birth and “signed” with an “X” her mark. 

“Several of us members of GC have shared some photos and tidbits about special women in our lives—women who have influenced us, guided us, helped us to evolve into the people we are to they. And to them, we say, ‘Thank you for being you and for all that you do!’”

In the small kingdom of Navarre, since the beginning of time, women have not only had their own identity and freedom, but most importantly, power.  Many times, they have had to demonstrate their strength with grace, but not always with mercy. Let me introduce you to some of these powerful ladies.  

If you could live anywhere in the world -- money, career, and family ties aside -- where would that be? What’s your shortlist?

Spain’s culture is as rich, intriguing, and complex as its history. Here are 5 movies that will help you better understand both.

I realize that I am blessed to have been born in the US (thank you , Mom and Dad, for seeking and working for a better life). I realize that I enjoy great privilege in being able to travel and learn from experiences and cultures from all over the world, and I do not ever want to take any of that for granted.

In a time when practically everything is virtual, it makes the tangible sentimental things like my travel journal have more meaning. I thought it would be fun to make you laugh with a look into my diary during a milestone moment of my life.

I am a generalist and work all over Italy and they are specialists in their regions or cities. I am also a bridge and strive to make connections between the well-recorded history and how it relates to us. Taking things from the past and relating them to our present and trying to not simply rattle off facts and numbers, but to create a cultural experience that will remain as a memory, long after the facts have faded into the background.

The level of transparency and lack of corruption make it possible to believe that people with power will act in the best interest of society. Is Denmark a democratic paradise? To quote a certain William S., “That is the question.” Is there anything rotten in the state of Denmark? Well, no system is perfect, but the Danes have succeeded in creating a society admired, even envied, by many!

I moved to New Zealand in 2015, and compared to the other countries I have lived in – Scotland, France and Portugal - I would say it is the fairest society of the four. Indeed, New Zealand regularly makes it into the top positions in rankings of  the most honest and least corrupt countries in the world – usually alongside the Scandinavian nations.

A stranger suddenly grabbed my hand and said “walk me home.” It was not just those three words, it was how she said them. There was both fear and relief, all in those three words.

Having just spent 3 weeks in Southeast Asia, enjoying jaw-dropping sights, mouth-watering cuisine, eye-opening historical and cultural lessons, and connecting with intriguing, kind, generous, and delightful people all over Vietnam and Cambodia, I am feeling really torn about the need to be vigilant about public health safety and the incessant focus on the fear of contracting COVID-19 and how that’s creating devastating, rippling effects in global economies, encouraging xenophobia, and making people panic worldwide. 

As a woman, I cherish the hard-earned rights, freedom, and respect that my gender enjoys in America and throughout the Western World.  We've come a long way in the last century, but we still face challenges and work diligently to hurdle them.  And because we recognize the value and contributions of women, no matter where they live, we want all women to savor the same opportunities we have.