Dream-Cation: Western European Heritage Tour

I’ve always marveled that one of the characteristics unique to Americans is that we don’t always identify as “American” first. In a single classroom alone you will find Italian, Polish, Mexican, Chinese, and other individuals. In many cases, we would prefer to identify ourselves by the nation of our origin instead, and are proud of where we “come from.”

Since most of my ancestral heritage stems from one particular area of Europe, I’ve always imagined visiting these places in one shot. A few weeks, a few train rides, plus one plane would be enough to get a sampling of the places I can trace myself to: England, Scotland, and Ireland.

1. London, UK

London is at the absolute top of any travel bucket list of mine. In fact, instead of simply visiting I would much rather live there for an extended period of time. However, in lieu of that option at the moment, I will make it the first stop on my trip. I’ll see the main attractions – London Eye, Big Ben Tower, Trafalgar Square, British Museum, et cetera—and return another time for a more immersive experience.

2. West Yorkshire, UK

This particular stop is unique because it is the town to which my last name can be traced. My last name means, “enclosed by woods” and, interestingly enough, is believed to originate in current-day West Yorkshire County.  A quick Google search tells me that the region contains various castles, museums, and other places of interest.  The main attraction for me will simply be taking in the countryside and air of a place I know that, somehow, I am descended from.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland

And thus the Scottish leg of the trip begins! My heritage is primarily Irish and British, but there is also an indeterminate amount of Scottish in there. And, heritage aside, Scotland seems beautiful. In particular I wish to visit Edinburgh. From various travel blogs’ photos, Edinburgh appears to be an almost fairytale-like city to visit.

4. Dublin, Ireland

Ireland is another country that I wish I could someday live or spend an extended period of time in, so for this “heritage tour” I’ll keep my visit to Dublin specifically, with perhaps an excursion into some areas more known for natural beauty. Anyone who is Irish has a tremendous amount of pride, and I eagerly look forward to experiencing the reason for this firsthand.

*See the full trip on Google Maps!
[Picture credits: UK 1, 2, 3, Scotland 1, 2, Ireland 1, 2]

Past Travels: Long Beach Island Snapshots

As a Jersey girl, I'm obligated to show my pride for the Jersey Shore - the real Jersey Shore. Not the kind you see on television, but the one that represents so many fond memories to everyone who has spent time there. 

My family doesn't often take vacations, but many years ago we spent two weeks at Long Beach Island. These are a collection of snapshots taken by my Uncle. Because they were digital and never developed/shared, I only saw these photos for the first time a few months ago. 

(For context: This was back in the day when I could barely multiply and divide, The Da Vinci Code was the hottest summer read, and digital cameras were somewhat new.)

If you've never stayed at the Jersey Shore, I hope these photos will give you a glimpse of how beautiful it can be.

 And if you are a shore-goer, I hope these feel like coming home.

As mentioned previously, all photo credit goes to my Uncle. I have not edited any of these images.

I Went Here: 10 Tips For Finger Lakes Wine Tasting!

1. Don't tell them you're planning to buy any bottles or cases, i.e. lots of their expensive commodity.
Let them believe this is simply a casual afternoon outing as a family, that's all. No pressure.

2. After tasting a sip, you can spit the liquid out. They have little bowls specifically for this purpose.
Not only will it keep you from getting unintentionally inebriated, but you look like a total pro.

3. Always take the free cheese and crackers. Always.

4. If you're not an expert don't worry - somewhere in the middle of the trip you'll start to feel like one! 

"Ah yes,  I detect a hint of yeast in the aftertaste of this Cab Sauv... but it's not quite as austere as the perfumed merlot we tasted earlier. Subtle, yet dry."

5. But by the end they'll all start to taste the same again. 

"This one is good."

6. Find a designated driver: day drinking isn't for the weak of heart (or liver)!

7. TAKE NOTES FOR LATER. 

8. Just because a place looks nice on the outside doesn't mean it has the best wine.
This gorgeous winery had our least favorite tastings.

9. Yes, every winery will have that scenic vineyard view to take photos in front of.
Don't let the repetition discourage you from admiring - and taking photos of - every single one.

10.The Finger Lakes region is one of a kind.

Take in the view as it passes by your window.

Bonus tip: If you're under-21 and the offer you complimentary grape juice, JUST TAKE IT. 
This isn't Welsh's 100% juice for 100% kids nonsense. It's the real deal.