Chronicling Europe & The Baltics 2018 – Helsinki Modern Diversity

A Little Romance

Just like the cruises themselves, we as a couple tend to pack a lot into international travels. These trips ironically due to DK’s planning often take place around our anniversary. We’ve managed to celebrate more than one of these milestones as we’ve seen the world. It’s always nice to fit a little romance in while at work and on vacation.

I’m glad to have a husband that understands that my writing work travels with me wherever I go. Fortunately for me, his creativity kicks in on these trips and we both get to work and play. While in Helsinki we got the chance to combine our love for jazz with exploring the city. Rick Braun, Aubrey Logan, the UK Collective, and Rick Marcel provided exceptional onboard entertainment.

The city offered its own inspiration for romantic experiences. In our downtime, we found a terrific café for coffee and dessert. On the tour, we’d learned a lot about the delicious chocolates that locals enjoy. Including these with our treats was a definite no-brainer. Sitting outside and watching the world go by together…is my definition of romance!

Chronicling Europe 2018 – Embracing Stockholm

All of the locals that we met along the journey confirmed that the weather was unseasonably warm. I’d thought that heavy clothing would be necessary throughout the entire Baltics Cruise with Dave Koz and Friends at Sea. The sun was a staple as we arrived at Stockholm, Sweden.

The previous night’s main show included our host and special guest Kenny Lattimore in concert. Late nights and jazz in every venue on board couldn’t keep us away from this beautiful city. As usual our hop on-and-off tours allow us to visit historic parts of the city, as well as, those that were filled with business and cosmopolitan life.

The lack of hustle and bustle on the early morning roadways, struck me as different from the typical sights at home during this time of day. Stockholm Palace and City Hall were definitely two landmarks that showcase the brilliance of the past.

Excursions that included the Swedish Opera House, the City Centre, and other popular locations were high on the list of many of our fellow cruisers. Sampling regional and national cuisine is always on my personal list of must-do activities.

Lunch time in the park displayed workers from all backgrounds relaxing and embracing the gorgeous city of Stockholm. There were no Speed of Life struggles that we could see!

Taking Advantage of Local Offerings – Summer Field Trips

There are many things for couples and families to consider during the summer. Once the Speed of Life slows a bit, travel is usually on the agenda. Globetrotting can be a lot of fun but certainly requires a bit of planning and budgeting.

Getting away from the stresses of life is possible by exploring the things that are available locally. These may include local day trips to parks, lakes and museums. Most cities, however, have activities and attractions that can be interesting to see.

Even planning a trip to landmarks, such as state and national parks is a nice way to learn and getaway. Visit their websites that display tourist details that travelers look for. Many of these trips are budget-friendly and can be done within a day or two.

• Walking Trails – Plan for the difficulty level and take a lot of pictures.

• Historic Sites – Look for site requirements and if tickets are necessary.

• Tour Brochures – Many cities with popular landmarks and attractions have brochures online.

• Weekend Getaway – Find scenic locations within an hour or two to relax and explore.

Movie Genres – Experiment with Different Cinematography

Many people have one set go-to genre of movie and never branch out. The only problem with this is that you will likely miss some really great work. Those who enjoy an exciting action flick could delve into a thriller.


This is like going from Mad Max to the Accountant. The leap is not that major when the work is good and the story line is developed. Another option to consider during this sort of exploration is work from the past.


Surprisingly, films like Casablanca, North by Northwest and Cat on a Hot Tin Roof are relevant to today’s current events. The all include stories that are serious, comic and relatable. The different ways that directors presented locations can be appreciated.


Find a new movie to view that is a change from your first choice. It is possible to tailor a more diverse appetite for movie-watching. Streaming services allow viewers to explore as many genres as they want.

Local Papers Hanging On

Many of you will remember several years ago, the talk about newspapers going the way of all obsolete things. At that time it was thought that technology would usurp the stage as it relates to how people got their news. I must admit that the internet provides us with great ways to find out about current events. Cable news channels like CNN and popular newspapers like USA Today, have transitioned to online outlets.

It did sadden me, however, to think that physical papers would fade away. I'm glad to say that this hasn't happened (yet). There's just something settling about being able to hold onto your own copy and turn the pages slowly. Just as large papers have been in jeopardy, so have local newspapers. A recent story determined that these local newspapers around the country are doing better than expected.

Many residents are opting to support their local outlets, instead of the national brands. There's something to be said about this type of salvage. The fact that these papers are generally much less expensive probably plays a role too. At the bottom of it all, there are just some things we don't want to change. There are some things that we should still be able to depend on . . . even if they take the form of local newspaper.