And so

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So I spend a lot of my days dreaming. Not the kind of dreaming that causes the absent, glazed over look. Or that keeps me from actually recognizing my surroundings.

It’s the kind of dreaming that goes on in the background. Just a soft purr behind-the-scenes.

Sometimes it becomes more evident though. At least to me. It helps to get through a rough day when I know that I can spend my ride home in silence to just let my mind wander around and bump into exciting ideas.

For the last (long) while my dreams have been centered on travel. Travel is like an itch. I just really want to indulge in a long back-scratch of travel. Say “Catch-ya-later!” to life and hop on a plane somewhere. Or a train. Or a mule. (Okay maybe not a mule.)

So on the weekends I spend time on the pinterest ‘travel’ board. (Which is one of the happiest places on the internet in my humble opinion.) Sometimes the images are so intriguing that they take me down a rabbit trail of research…. Next thing I know I feel like I basically went to Ireland for a few hours.

Research perpetuates dreams which perpetuate research. And now I’m stuck in this awesome cycle of fantasy (but almost) reality land. I don’t have a problem with this. It can stay.

{Linking-up with Casey} 

A day in Stresa, Italy

If I could spend one summer day in Stresa, I’d want it to go something like this:

Just in case you were wondering where Stresa is! (hint: "A" marks the spot.)

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I’d wake up in Hotel Lido la Perla Nera - a small, family run hotel situated right next to the water of the Borromean Gulf.  For breakfast, I’d take a walk to the town where I’d pick up something light. (I don’t usually eat very robust breakfasts.) Something like this little “biscuit” (or, ahem, cookie) shop would probably be perfect. Cookies for breakfast is a legit option in fantasy-travel land. :) 

From there, I’d take a cable car to the Mottarone plateau in the mountains above Stresa to take in the beautiful view of the Borromean Gulf of Lake Maggiore. I’d take this advice and rent a bike for the descent back to town. Apparently, once I return the bike, I’d be able to take another lakefront stroll with fascinating views of villas and “mini-palaces.” Doesn’t that sound amazing!? 

Mottarone Plateau (via)

Knowing myself, I’d probably enjoy some afternoon down-time at the hotel and perhaps have a cup of coffee - or maybe I’d brave some straight espresso. It is Italy, after all, and it’s possible that straight espresso doesn’t pack as much of a punch in a foreign land (ha!). 

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With a recharged sense of adventure, I’d choose to spend the afternoon at Isola Bella: a small island known for the Borromean palace and gardens which is just a short ferry ride away from Stresa. 

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A brief history of Isola Bella - The island was purchased in 1632 by Carlo III of the House of Borromeo. Carlo III dedicated the island and palace construction to his wife, Isabella D’Adda. Originally, the Milanese Angelo Crivelli was responsible for designing the building and gardens but construction was halted until Carlo’s sons brought the vision to fruition with the guidance of architect Carlo Fontana. The palace and grounds weren’t fully completed until 1959! 

I’d take a tour of the palace which includes the Sala di Musica (the music room) with its own unique history from WWII! I’d also love to wander around the gardens and soak up all the green! 

In the evening, I’d take advantage of the famous Stresa (music) Festival! I’d hope to spend the evening in an outdoor concert with a glass of wine. (You thought I was going to forget about the wine part, huh? Well I didn’t: it’s ITALY. duh.) 

That, my friends, would be my ideal one-day vacation in Stresa, Italy. 

Next stop: Florac, France! 

Weekends are for exploring

When I was a young teen I dove headlong into historical romance novels. (Don't judge me.) A few of my favorites took place in Harvey Houses in the early 20th century. This was so fascinating to me that I researched Harvey Houses on my own, and even wrote a few papers about them for school - nerd alert. Anyway, here are a few historical breadcrumbs for you!

In the beginning, Harvey Houses were mostly just small diners that were located along the railway. They had a reputation for quickly serving excellent food in order to allow their diners to make the connection to their next train. (Perhaps airport food-courts should take note? Just a suggestion.)

The Harvey House reputation went beyond food, however, because the Harvey Company provided excellent employment opportunities for women in an era when their job opportunities were rather limited. They worked as servers at the Harvey Houses along the Santa Fe railway, and as a perk to their job, they were able to travel along the Santa Fe railway for free! (Sign me up!)

As the Harvey Company grew, they built large resorts to offer their customers more of a destination rather than just pass-through service. One of these resorts is located in Barstow, California just a short drive away! Even though I've been there on multiple occasions, I decided to go there again, and to bring my camera along for once. :) My brother joined me and we made a fun afternoon of it. Here are some pictures: