Posts by Janie H Pace

Prohibition in Iceland was enacted in 1915, when alcohol was generally frowned upon, especially beer, for political reasons. Iceland was involved in a struggle for independence from Denmark at the time, and Icelanders strongly associated beer with Danish lifestyles. Beer was not the “patriotic” drink of choice since Danes drank eight times as much alcohol…

Originally called Bjorgvin, the city of Bergen was founded by King Olaf III Haraldsson in 1070. Today, modern Bergen is known as the gateway to the fjords. One of the most beautiful cities in Norway, Bergen is a mix of old-world charms and a thriving metropolis. The mountains surrounding Bergen are responsible for the micro-climate…

Set on a glittering bay amid impressive hills and fjords, Oslo is one of Scandinavia’s most magnificent cities. Founded by a Norseman, King Harald III, the city has a rich Viking history with close ties to the sea. Our Viking Venus Ocean Ship docked at the Akershus Fortress, a medieval and Renaissance citadel built in the…

Stockholm is situated where Lake Mälaren’s sapphire blue waters meet the vast Baltic Sea. The elegant cultural capital spreads over 14 islands linked by 57 architectural bridges. Famous as one of the world’s cleanest cities, Stockholm boasts numerous green parks, historical museums, quaint bars, sleek bistros, outdoor cafes, and exclusive shopping. Sustainable and eco-friendly solutions…

This August, more than 800 Native American artists will gather in Santa Fe, offering their finest jewelry, weavings, pottery, and other artistic pieces for sale, with an opportunity to compete for recognition and awards.  Thousands of collectors, buyers, spectators, and attendees besiege Santa Fe to shop and buy, creating a significant source of income for Native…

Gallup offers exciting outdoor adventures, nestled in spectacular red rock cliffs along historic Route 66. Just off I-40 in western New Mexico near the Arizona border, Gallup exudes old-world tradition, rich culture, and original indigenous art from the Native American people. One of the oldest Native American heritage celebrations marks its 100th year. Here’s how…

As kids, we camped in the summertime at these state parks at one time or another. Then, as adults, we took our kids camping. We graduated from tents to trailers to RVs. I have fond memories of fun times with family and friends. Pro Tips: You can purchase a Texas State Park Pass for free entry to more…

A small town in North Texas is preparing for one of the country’s grandest Independence Day fireworks extravaganzas and air shows, Addison Kaboom Town! It’s coming July 3 in the tiny 4.4-square-mile town of Addison, home to 16,000 residents. Each year, Kaboom Town is named among the top fireworks shows in the country by People.com, Yahoo, The American…

Santa Fe is a food town, with more restaurants per capita than any other city in the United States. You’ll find exciting cuisine, ever-changing, varied, and delicious. Santa Fe has earned a prominent place on the world culinary food map with its innovative Southwestern fare and hearty New Mexican dishes like green chile stew. New…

The Festival Flamenco Alburquerque is celebrating its 35th year from June 11 to 18, 2022. The thrilling week-long event, sponsored by the National Institute of Flamenco and the University of New Mexico, is the most significant flamenco event outside of Spain. The festival takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and uses the original Spanish spelling of…