Local vs. Tourist during COVID-19

Many locations (New York included) are begging for tourists to return. And, the same was true for Jamaica, which is an entire nation dependent on the tourism industry. However, I would also argue that with the supply chain issues, global import/export regulations, and shipping problems that we’re seeing everywhere, tourism is putting a strain on the already fragile communities that are trying to simply survive in these troubled times.

Travel in the COVID-era

Anthony Bourdain has a quote that was incredibly apropos to this trip, “Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.”

Toasting the Moon in Jamaica

The Rockhouse was our draw to Negril. The cliffs and the clear water called to us like a siren. And, swimming in that water was phenomenal. I’ve never enjoyed the sea more. But, I hadn’t planned on being locked at the Rockhouse Hotel for three days straight…

Toasting Romance in Baltimore

I would welcome anyone: to listen to the stories of Edgar Allen Poe while sipping a drink at America’s oldest pub (The Horse You Came In On), to listen to jazz and enjoy local oysters at Keystone Korner, to sail around the Harbour with America’s Sailing Tours, to have a crab feast at L.P. Steamers, to see Fort McHenry where Francis Scott Key penned The Star Spangled Banner, to walk around Fells Point and get lost in the row houses and architecture, to watch a sunset at Canton Park… Then, tell me how Baltimore isn’t a city to love. Baltimore is “Charm City” and it lives up to its name.

purple petaled flower field

Toasting Spring 2021

Should I Come to New York in 2021? YESSSS!!!! I finally get to update this announcement! If you live in the U.S.A., then go get your vaccine and come visit! As of April 1, quarantine and testing will no longer be mandated. Quarantining for a few days is still recommended, but we are reaching the end of the formal testing, paperwork, and quarantines for domestic travelers! Huzzah!

Toasting the Fight Against Winter Blues

It’s a month and half into the new year…And, I’ve heard many of my friends, colleagues, and neighbors complain about how depressing this time of year is. Dreary….Cold….Dark….Nothing to do … Continue reading Toasting the Fight Against Winter Blues

Toasting the Moon in Red Hook, Brooklyn

Pre-Civil War warehouses + Ports + No Subway + Transportation wasteland in NYC = The perfect location for creatives. What happened to all of the artists in New York City? … Continue reading Toasting the Moon in Red Hook, Brooklyn

Top Spots in Your Region to “Social Distance” Travel in 2020

This week, we’re breaking down our top 5 “Socially Distant” spots you can enjoy this summer. I’m betting that there are plenty of places you’ve never been within a few hundred miles of your home! Check it out and let me know if there are others I’ve missed! I love to learn about new hidden spots!

Questions on Quitting Quarantine

I can only picture going back into the world being a little bit like Groundhog’s Day. I think that when the time comes, it will be difficult for me to not see my shadow and run right back into my cave.

Toasting the Moon in Santa Barbara

Travel for 2 cost breakdown (at the time of writing this post): The Eagle Inn: $137 per night (A Toast the Moon Favorite!) Food/Entertainment/Transportation/Souvenirs: $1000 GRAND TOTAL FOR 2 TRAVELERS … Continue reading Toasting the Moon in Santa Barbara

Toasting the Moon in Berlin

Travel for 2 cost breakdown (at the time of writing this post): Nhow Hotel – Berlin: $95 per night Roundtrip Airfare from San Francisco to Berlin (non-stop): $620 pp Food/Entertainment/Transportation/Souvenirs: … Continue reading Toasting the Moon in Berlin