Venice, Florida As I am heading to Venice shortly, another Mediterranean town came into view as I drove south along the Gulf of Mexico, a small but striking Italianate architectural gem with old world charm. It’s another Venice, this one in Florida with canals and bridges though it has palm trees and southern oak canopies lining the main street. While many Florida resort towns are miles of high-rise blocks this one has 14 miles of white sand beaches. These particular beaches

Chateau d' Angers Castles in the Loire Valley hold many of treasures. Architecturally like the double-helix staircase at Chambord; the two separate staircases that intertwined like a DNA strand, accredited to the master Leonardo da Vinci. Chateau de Chenonceau, a Renaissance masterpiece that spans the Cher River, built for an infamous lover. Amboise Castle sitting 130 feet above the Loire River was home to Kings and Queens of France with a secret passage underground to Clos

Sisters Mancini I love discovering a new wine, that first sip that grabs your attention and makes you close your eyes as you swallow, imprinting that flavor profile. But honestly, my favorite tipple is Champagne; it captures a moment. I have to say it's usually a good one, with a party in the mouth with bubbles teasing the palate. So, the story I'll tell in the tale is about someone who shares my love of Champagne, who influenced and shared the bubbles with a large audience.