Finally, a wildlife fix in Tamania…Today is our 14th anniversary of posting…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 14, 2026 with 0 Comment

At first, I thought this was a Tasmanian Devil, but I was so wrong. This is a Tasmanian Brushtail Possum that greeted us when we returned from dining out.

When we returned from dinner on Friday evening around 8:30, the night was quiet, as small coastal towns often are after dark. The streets around us were nearly empty, the air cool and still, and the sound of waves from the nearby shoreline drifted through the darkness. As soon as we pulled into the drive and I opened the car door, I heard something scrambling across the roof of the house. The sound was quick and purposeful, the unmistakable scurry of an animal moving across the metal roofing above us.

I froze halfway out of the car and looked up.

Within seconds, I spotted the creature clinging to the eaves of the house. Its body was stretched along the edge of the roofline, its long tail wrapped around a beam, as it paused to observe us below. In the dim outdoor light, I could see its round eyes reflecting toward us, alert and curious.

Tom came around the front of the car and followed my gaze upward.

“Back away carefully,” he said in a calm but serious voice. “If it’s a Tasmanian Devil, it could be dangerous.”

I understood his concern. After all, we are visitors here, still learning which animals are harmless and which ones deserve a little distance. The wild creatures of Tasmania are fascinating but unfamiliar to us, and caution always seems wise.

Still, curiosity got the better of me.

The animal wasn’t moving much now, simply watching us as if we were the unusual ones. I could feel that familiar pull that comes whenever we encounter a new creature, unexpected while traveling. These are the moments that stay with you long after the suitcases are unpacked and the photographs are sorted.

I slowly stepped back just enough to get a clearer view while reaching for my phone.

Tom watched carefully, clearly prepared to remind me again to keep my distance if the animal decided to climb down or come closer. But it stayed right where it was, balanced comfortably along the edge of the roof as though it had spent many evenings there observing the humans below.

I managed to snap a few photos before it shifted slightly and disappeared along the roofline, moving with surprising grace.

Inside the house, still talking and excited about our unexpected visitor, I posted one of the photos on Facebook. Living and traveling abroad has created a wonderful community of people who are always eager to share knowledge, especially when it comes to local wildlife. I suspected someone would quickly identify our mysterious rooftop guest.

Sure enough, the responses began arriving almost immediately.

Several Australians wrote to tell me that the animal in the photo was not a Tasmanian Devil at all. Instead, they explained that it was a Tasmanian Brushtail Possum described as follows:

At first glance, a brushtail possum looks a bit like a cross between a small raccoon and an oversized squirrel. Its body is about the size of a house cat, though the thick fur and full tail make it appear larger, especially when seen unexpectedly in the dark. The possum’s coat is soft and dense, usually a mix of grey, brown, or charcoal tones that blend perfectly with tree bark and rooftops at night.

Its most noticeable feature is the tail. True to its name, the brushtail possum has a long, bushy tail that can be nearly as long as its body. The tail serves as a useful balancing tool when the animal moves along branches, fences, and, apparently, rooftops. When we saw ours, the tail stretched out behind it along the eaves, giving it a silhouette that was both graceful and slightly comical.

The face of the possum is surprisingly expressive. Rounded ears sit upright on its head, while a small pink nose and large dark eyes give it an alert, curious look. Those eyes are especially striking at night. When they catch the light from a porch lamp or flashlight, they reflect brightly, which is exactly what caught my attention when I first looked up toward the roof.

Brushtail possums are marsupials, meaning the females carry their young in a pouch. A tiny baby, called a joey, spends its earliest months tucked safely inside the mother’s pouch before eventually emerging and riding on her back as it grows stronger.

Although they may appear slow or clumsy when you hear them thumping across a roof, they are actually excellent climbers. Strong limbs and sharp claws allow them to scale trees with ease and move confidently through branches high above the ground.

For locals here in Tasmania, the brushtail possum is simply part of everyday life. For us, seeing one staring down at us from the roof felt like a small introduction to the wildlife that quietly shares the neighborhood once the sun goes down. As it turns out, these possums are quite common throughout Tasmania and much of Australia. They are nocturnal creatures, which explains why our encounter happened well after sunset. During the day, they typically sleep in hollow trees, roof spaces, or other sheltered spots, emerging at night to forage. Their diet includes leaves, fruits, flowers, and occasionally small insects.

Apparently, rooftops are one of their favorite nighttime highways. The more I learned, the more the experience made sense. The quick footsteps across the roof, the calm confidence with which the animal perched along the eaves, and its curious stare down at us all fit the description perfectly. What began as a slightly startling moment in the driveway turned into yet another small but memorable encounter with the wildlife that makes Tasmania so unique.

Travel has taught us that sometimes the most interesting sightings happen when you are simply returning home from dinner and opening the car door. You never quite know who might be waiting on the roof. As mentioned in today’s heading, today is the 14-year anniversary of posting. More on that tomorrow.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 15, 2016:

These unusual New Zealand mushrooms appear translucent. For more photos, please click here.

Fun evening out with nomads like us!…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 13, 2026 with 0 Comment

Tom connected with this lovely couple, Jennifer and Ryan, also from Minnesota, who became home-free nomads at a young age two years ago.

Travel has an interesting way of bringing people together, often in the most unexpected places. Last night was one of those occasions that reminded me how small the world can feel, even when we are thousands of miles from home.

We met Jennifer and Ryan, a couple Tom had connected with through a Facebook group for travelers. Someone in the group had asked where people would be in a few weeks, and Tom happened to mention that we would be spending time in Penguin. Jennifer and Ryan replied that they would be here as well, although only briefly. With nothing more than that simple exchange, a plan was made to meet for drinks and dinner.

When we arrived, it felt as though we were greeting old friends rather than people we had never met before. Almost immediately, we discovered a fun coincidence…they were both from Minnesota, which gave us an instant connection and plenty to talk about right from the start. Something is comforting about sharing familiar reference points, even when you are standing in a small coastal town on the northern shore of Tasmania.

Ryan and Jennifer are having the time of their lives!

Of course, our conversation quickly expanded far beyond Minnesota. Like us, they have spent a great deal of time traveling, and it seemed that every destination one of us mentioned sparked another story from someone else. Countries we had visited overlapped again and again. At one point, they mentioned their cruise to Antarctica, which naturally led to more enthusiastic comparisons of icy landscapes, wildlife sightings, and the kind of surreal beauty that only exists in those remote corners of the world.

The conversation bounced back and forth like a ping pong ball. One story led to another, which led to laughter, which then reminded someone of yet another adventure somewhere else. It is always such a pleasure to talk with people who understand that particular curiosity about the world, the constant pull to see what lies beyond the next horizon.

We met at five in the afternoon for happy hour, and before long, we ordered dinner. Somewhere along the way, I forgot to take photos of the food, which is unusual for me these days. I suppose that says something about how engaged I was in the conversation.

Tom was enjoying being out and about and meeting new people. I felt the same way.

What I ordered turned out to be an unusual twist on a familiar dish. I ordered nachos with the chips served separately on the side. Instead of the typical pile of tortilla chips layered with toppings, the bowl contained shredded pot roast topped with melted cheese, guacamole, salsa, and sour cream. The chips sat in their own basket beside it.

In the end, I never ate a single chip. The bowl itself was satisfying on its own. It was hearty and flavorful, the kind of dish that feels comforting after a cool evening along the Tasmanian coast. The basket of chips, however, did not go to waste. I pushed them toward the center of the table, and the three of them happily munched their way through the entire bowlful.

Before we knew it, the evening had slipped away. We had arrived at five, but by eight thirty we were already back at the house. It was the perfect amount of time to enjoy good company without turning the night into something exhausting.

Once home, Tom and I settled in to watch an episode of The Traitors, which has become our little evening ritual. Not long after the episode ended, I headed off to bed.

Last night, for the first time in years, I drank two glasses of 3.5% low carb beer. Since we haven’t had any alcohol lately, today I have a terrible hangover. I won’t be drinking beer again!

Unfortunately, sleep did not come easily. It turned into one of those restless nights where you drift in and out without ever feeling fully settled. Today, I am feeling its effects. Between making pizza for Tom and preparing a seafood dish for myself, I find that I am dragging my feet more than usual.

Still, tomorrow is another day, and I suspect a good night’s sleep will set everything right again. Besides, we returned home last night after seeing something quite special at the wildlife department, a thrill for both of us. Tomorrow I will share that story, along with a stunning photo, because it was one of those moments that remind us once again why we love being here and traveling the world.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago, March 14, 2016:

In New Zealand, these beautiful clusters of trees create a nice foreground for our photos at sunset. For more photos, please click here.

Sightseeing in Tasmania continues…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 11, 2026 with 0 Comment

Not our photo, although we took the others below of the Three Sisters. We couldn’t get close enough for such a photo because of traffic on the narrow, two-lane road.

Not far from the quiet seaside town of Penguin lies one of those places that manages to feel both humble and magnificent at the same time. The Three Sisters of Tasmania sit just offshore near Table Cape, rising from the restless waters of the Bass Strait like silent guardians that have watched the coastline for thousands of years.

At first glance, the Three Sisters appear almost modest. They are not towering cliffs or dramatic mountains. Instead, there are three weathered sea stacks, separated from the mainland by centuries of wind, waves, and erosion. Yet the moment you see them, especially from the lookout along Table Cape, you realize how special they are. Standing there, looking out over the vast expanse of ocean, the three stone pillars seem to tell a story without saying a single word.

These same railroad tracks are across the Main Road, where our holiday home overlooks the sea. We see a train a few times each day, returning hours later. Of course, Tom, as a former railroad worker, enjoys seeing the train.

We drove out toward Table Cape on a cool morning a few days ago, the kind of Tasmanian day when the sky seems to stretch endlessly, and the air carries the scent of the sea. The farmland surrounding the cape was dotted with grazing cattle and open green fields that rolled gently toward the cliffs. It felt peaceful in that way many places in Tasmania do, where life moves at a comfortable pace and nature quietly takes center stage.

As we approached the edge of the cape, the view suddenly opened up. The land simply stops, replaced by dramatic cliffs that drop down to the churning waters below. Out there, not far from shore but far enough to stand alone, were the Three Sisters.

Each of the stacks has its own character. One stands slightly taller and more solid than the others, while the remaining two appear more slender and worn by time. The rock itself consists of soft shades of brown and grey, with patches of green where plants have found a way to cling to the stone. Waves crash endlessly at their bases, slowly shaping them, year after year.

It is easy to imagine what this coastline must have looked like long ago. The Three Sisters were once part of the mainland, connected to the cliffs of Table Cape. Over countless years, the ocean carved away at the softer sections of rock, gradually separating these pillars from the land. What remains today are the last fragments of that ancient connection, standing proudly in the water.

It’s been cloudy and rainy most days since we arrived at this house. Today, the sun is shining, and we’ll head out again soon.

From the lookout above, we could hear the distant roar of the waves far below. Seabirds drifted on the coastal winds, occasionally circling the stacks before gliding back toward the cliffs. There is something deeply calming about standing in a place like this, where the landscape reminds you just how powerful and patient nature truly is, particularly the sea.

Visitors often come here for photographs, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts long golden tones across the sea. But even without a camera, it is a place worth lingering. The view encourages you to slow down and simply take it in.

What I found most striking was the sense of quiet permanence. While towns grow, roads change, and travelers like us come and go, these stone formations remain, slowly evolving but never in a hurried manner. They have witnessed storms, calm seas, migrating birds, and generations of people pausing along the cliffs to admire them.

Although it’s cloudy and overcast, the scenery along the coast, near Three Sisters is still breathtaking.

In a region already filled with beautiful landscapes, the Three Sisters stand out not because they are the largest or most famous landmark in Tasmania, but because of their quiet presence. They are simple, natural sculptures created by time itself.

And sometimes, those are the places that stay with you the longest.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 12, 2016:

Later, upon returning to our holiday home in New Zealand, we laughed at this photo that appears to be what??? A six-legged cow? No. The photo is a fluke which one cow standing behind the other. Belted Galloway cattle, affectionately known as “Oreo cows” or “Belties,” are a Scottish heritage beef breed defined by their thick, double-layered, waterproof coats and a distinctive white stripe, or “belt,” around their midsections. They are hardy, polled (hornless), and efficient foragers known for producing high-quality, low-fat, and tender meat. We didn’t stay long for better photos when they began showing a few signs of aggression. For more photos, please click here.

Out and about taking photos…Food photos…Why is cooking so much fun in Tasmania?…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 7, 2026 with 0 Comment

Plains, tall grasses, and mountain-scape, typically seen in Tasmania.

Something is refreshing about simply getting in the car with no particular destination in mind, other than the hope of discovering a few worthwhile photo opportunities along the way. That’s exactly what we did yesterday—heading out for a leisurely drive through the countryside surrounding Penguin, camera ready, curiosity leading the way.

The landscape here is a patchwork of farmland that seems to roll endlessly toward the horizon. Wide green pastures, scattered farmhouses, and the occasional cluster of trees break up the scenery, while cattle and sheep graze as if they have all the time in the world. It’s the kind of countryside that begs to be photographed. Unfortunately, the logistics of doing so are not always quite so simple.

Many of the roads winding through these rural areas are narrow two-lane stretches with just enough room for passing traffic. While the views are spectacular, there are surprisingly few safe places to pull over. More than once, we spotted a perfect photo: a hillside dotted with sheep, a weathered barn sitting proudly in a field, or distant mountains framed by soft clouds, only to realize there was no practical place to pull over.

It became something of a game between us. “Oh, look at that!” one of us would say, followed immediately by, “Too bad there’s nowhere to stop.” We laughed about it more than once, accepting that sometimes the most beautiful moments are meant to be enjoyed in passing rather than captured on camera.

I took this farm photo while we were moving.

Still, we managed to grab a few photos when small gravel turnouts appeared or when the road briefly widened enough to allow us to stop safely. Even when we couldn’t stop, the drive itself was rewarding. There’s a peaceful feeling to rural roads, the quiet hum of the car, the steady unfolding of scenery, and the sense that life out here moves at a gentle pace.

In many ways, the experience reminded us that not every adventure needs to be meticulously planned. Sometimes the simple act of exploring, of wandering through unfamiliar back roads, is enough.

This coming week, we plan to venture out even more, gradually exploring some of the popular attractions scattered throughout the region. A few local vineyards have already caught our attention, and we’re looking forward to visiting them, learning a little about the area’s wines, and perhaps enjoying a tasting or two along the way.

Red Flowering Gum tree, which produces vibrant clusters of red, orange, or pink flowers. These native trees are a popular, hardy, and spectacular feature in Australian gardens and streetscape.

For now, though, we’re grateful to be here, discovering the beauty around Penguin one country road at a time. Even when the camera stays in our laps, the memories are already being made.

On another note, I find myself spending more time in the kitchen than usual these days. That may sound surprising for someone who has spent the past thirteen years traveling the world, often relying on restaurants, takeaways, and whatever simple meals we could pull together in small kitchens along the way. But here, something about the abundance of beautiful local food makes it almost impossible to resist the temptation to cook.

Close-up of blooms on the Red Flowering Gum tree.

Tasmania offers an incredible selection of fresh ingredients. Everywhere we turn, there are markets, farm stands, and local shops filled with organic produce, grass-fed meats, free-range chickens, and some of the most wonderful cheeses and dairy products we have encountered anywhere in the world. When such high-quality ingredients are readily available, it feels almost like a privilege to step into the kitchen and create something with them.

Tom has certainly been enjoying the benefits of this little cooking spree. Each morning, he starts the day with coffee topped with what they call double cream here. It is rich, thick, and wonderfully indulgent, and he looks forward to it the way some people look forward to dessert.

This dish’s recipe was featured in yesterday’s post here. It’s delicious and reheats perfectly in the microwave.

Over the past few days, I have also been making him a hearty breakfast of butter-sautéed halloumi cheese with a side of bacon. The halloumi browns beautifully in the pan, forming a golden crust while remaining soft and salty inside. The aroma alone is enough to make the kitchen feel warm and welcoming early in the morning. As shown in today’s photos, it has quickly become one of his favorite starts to the day.

Tom is not currently following the OMAD concept that I am practicing. For now, I am sticking with one meal a day, focusing on packing as much nutrition as possible into that single meal while maintaining a vigorous exercise routine. It works well for me, and I feel great doing it.

Yesterday’s anniversary dinner turned out wonderfully, and fortunately, there is plenty left for tonight and tomorrow as well. Whenever I make a more time-consuming recipe, like the recipe featured in yesterday’s post with the photo of the finished dish today, I always prepare a large enough batch to last for three evenings. It saves time later, and somehow the flavors seem even better on the second and third nights.

Tom’s breakfast of butter-sauteed halloumi cheese with a side of bacon.

Along with the dish, Tom enjoyed his with rice and a fresh salad. I kept mine a bit simpler with a small avocado, broccoli, and salad on the side. It was truly a treat.

After we finish this post and I complete my exercise routine, Tom will likely enjoy his usual nap. Early this afternoon, we plan to head out to the Penguin Undercover Market, which runs from nine in the morning until three in the afternoon each Sunday. We will be sure to take photos and share them tomorrow.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 8, 2016:

The noses and lips of the cria are pink until they mature. This alpaca cria is only 24 hours old, hugging close to mom. For more photos, please click here.

Today is our 31st wedding anniversary…Celebrating with a favorite recipe shown below…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 7, 2026 with 0 Comment

On our Antarctica cruise, we were drinking French champagne while on the 10-person zodiac boat with icebergs and wildlife all around us. Memorable.

Thirty-one years ago today, Tom and I stood side by side and promised one another a lifetime together. At the time, like most couples standing at the beginning of their marriage, we couldn’t possibly have imagined where life would lead us. We knew we loved each other deeply, and we hoped for a happy future, but the details of that future were still unwritten pages.

Today, as we celebrate our 31st wedding anniversary, those pages have filled into a story far richer than either of us could have predicted.

In many ways, our marriage has been a journey, both figuratively and literally. Long before we ever packed a suitcase to travel the world, we were already navigating the many twists and turns that life naturally brings. Careers, family milestones, unexpected challenges, and joyful celebrations all shaped the path we walked together. Through it all, one constant remained: we faced everything side by side.

When I look back over these three decades, what stands out most is not any single event or accomplishment. Instead, it’s the countless ordinary moments that quietly built the foundation of our life together. The early mornings, the late nights, the shared meals, the laughter over something silly, the comfort of knowing someone understands you completely, even when you don’t say a word.

Those small moments are what truly create a marriage.

Of course, life isn’t always smooth sailing. Like any long-term partnership, we’ve experienced our share of challenges. Health scares, stressful moves, unexpected detours—each one testing our patience and resilience. Yet looking back now, those same challenges often strengthened our bond in ways we couldn’t see at the time.

Marriage, after all, isn’t about perfection. It’s about commitment. It’s about choosing each other again and again, even on the difficult days.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable chapters of our story began thirteen years ago, when we made the bold decision to sell everything we owned and begin traveling the world. At the time, many people wondered if living such an unconventional lifestyle would put stress on our relationship.

In truth, it did exactly the opposite.

Traveling together has given us the gift of shared discovery. We’ve watched sunsets on beaches halfway around the world, as we do today while in Tasmania, wandered through ancient cities rich with history, and found ourselves laughing over language barriers and unexpected mishaps. We’ve lived in homes across continents, met fascinating people from countless cultures, and learned that the world is both much larger and much smaller than we ever imagined.

But perhaps the greatest gift of this lifestyle has been time.

Time to talk. Time to reflect. Time to truly enjoy each other’s company without the constant rush that often defines modern life. When you live this way, you quickly learn that experiences matter far more than possessions. And when those experiences are shared with someone you love deeply, they become even more meaningful.

Over the years, we’ve also learned the importance of gratitude. Gratitude for good health, even after a serious health struggle I experienced in 2019, for the opportunity to explore the world, for the kindness of strangers who often become friends, and for the quiet comfort of simply being together.

As I write this today, I’m reminded that our marriage has evolved just as we have. The love we felt on our wedding day was genuine and strong. Thirty-one years later, that love feels deeper, steadier, and more resilient. It has been shaped by time, by experiences, and by the simple act of sharing life day after day.

I sometimes think about that younger version of us standing in front of a justice of the peace with three of our four kids standing beside us, all those years ago. If we could somehow tell them what the next years would hold—the adventures, the laughter, the challenges overcome—they might find it hard to believe.

And yet here we are.

Thirty-one years later, still walking this road together.

We may not know exactly what the next chapters will bring. Travel plans will continue to evolve, new places will capture our curiosity, and life will undoubtedly offer both surprises and lessons along the way.

But one thing remains certain.

Wherever the road leads next, we’ll continue traveling it side by side—just as we have for the past 31 years.

And for that, I am endlessly grateful.

Tonight’s special dinner:

Jess’s Low-Carb Sausage, Mushroom, and Chicken Casserole

● Prep Time: 20 mins
● Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
● Servings: 8

INGREDIENTS

3 -4 cups diced cooked chicken

1 lb cheesy sausages

1 stalk celery, chopped fine

1 tablespoon onion, chopped

1/2 lb mushroom, sliced

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

16 ounces frozen cauliflower, cooked well and drained

8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup parmesan cheese, shredded

1 cup unsweetened coconut cream (in a can)

2 tsp salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

DIRECTIONS (8 servings)
1. Brown the sausage with the celery, onion, and mushrooms.
2. Stir the softened cream cheese into the sausage mixture until well blended.
3. Coarsely chop the cooked frozen cauliflower.
4. Mix all remaining ingredients and spread in a greased baking dish.
5. Cover with grated Parmesan cheese
6. Bake, covered with foil, at 350º for about 30 minutes.
2. Uncover and bake until hot and bubbly and the top is lightly browned, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 7, 2016:

The sun was peeking through the clouds, casting a glow on a beach in New Zealand. Of course, the scene would have been more impressive had it not been so late in the evening. For more photos, please click here.

How to avoid getting kicked-off a flight!…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 5, 2026 with 2 Comments

Over the years, after countless hours spent in airplanes crossing oceans, continents, and time zones, we have learned that air travel is as much a social experience as it is a means of transportation. Hundreds of strangers share a relatively small metal tube in the sky, each bringing their own habits, preferences, and personalities along for the journey. Sometimes it works beautifully. Other times, it requires a little patience.

Recently, United Airlines announced a change that frequent travelers will likely greet with quiet relief. The airline has updated its contract of carriage to prohibit passengers from watching videos or listening to music without headphones. Travelers who ignore the rule could even be removed from the flight. While that may sound strict, anyone who spends a fair amount of time flying understands exactly why such a policy might be necessary.

The change was officially implemented on February 27, and United now clearly reminds passengers of the rule during the sign-in process for in-flight Wi-Fi. A large prompt appears on the screen, encouraging travelers to wear headphones before playing any videos, music, games, or other audio. It is a simple request that reflects something many of us assumed was already common courtesy.

According to a United spokesperson, the airline has always encouraged passengers to use headphones when listening to content. However, with the expansion of Starlink internet on more flights, which allows passengers to stream movies, television shows, and other media more easily, the airline felt it was the right moment to make the expectation more explicit.

In truth, the need for such a rule speaks to how dramatically air travel has changed over the past decade. When we first began our long-term travels thirteen years ago, many flights offered only limited entertainment. Perhaps a shared movie played on overhead screens, or a small selection of programs on the seatback monitor. Today, however, nearly every passenger carries a personal entertainment center in their pocket. Phones, tablets, and laptops make it possible to stream endless content throughout even the longest flight.

While that technology is wonderful, it has also introduced new challenges. Few things disrupt the peaceful hum of an aircraft cabin quite like someone watching a video at full volume without headphones. The tinny sound bouncing around the cabin can quickly turn a quiet environment into something resembling a crowded waiting room.

Most travelers, thankfully, understand this without being told. Headphones have become an essential part of the flying routine, right alongside passports, charging cables, and neck pillows. For many of us, slipping on a pair of headphones is part of settling into the nuances of flying. It signals the start of a movie, a favorite playlist, or perhaps a podcast that makes the hours drift by more easily.

United has also made efforts to accommodate various headphone types. On some aircraft, Bluetooth connectivity allows passengers to pair their wireless headphones directly with the seatback entertainment system. On older aircraft, travelers can use accessories such as the small AirFly adapter, which plugs into the headphone jack and transmits the audio wirelessly to Bluetooth headphones. For those who may not have brought their own, complimentary wired headphones are typically available for use with the onboard entertainment.

Interestingly, United has placed the headphone rule within the section of its contract that covers refusal of transport. In other words, ignoring the rule could technically result in a passenger being removed from the aircraft. That section also includes far more serious offenses, such as assaulting crew members or smoking on board. The airline also prohibits voice and video calls once the boarding door is closed, another effort to preserve a calm environment inside the cabin.

At first glance, grouping headphone etiquette alongside those more serious rules may seem surprising. Yet it underscores how important a respectful cabin environment has become. When people are confined together for hours at a time, even small irritations can quickly escalate.

Surveys of travelers consistently show that loud devices rank among the most frustrating in-flight behaviors. One report last year listed it as the fifth most common travel irritation. Only a few familiar annoyances ranked higher: children kicking the back of a seat, crying or disruptive children, aggressively reclined seats, and overly intoxicated passengers.

Anyone who has flown regularly has likely encountered at least one of these situations. We certainly have. There was the long overnight flight years ago when a passenger nearby watched action movies without headphones for nearly an hour before a flight attendant gently intervened. Another time, on a crowded regional flight, a traveler played a video game with loud sound effects that echoed throughout the cabin. In both cases, the discomfort spread quietly through the surrounding rows, with passengers exchanging polite but weary glances.

In many ways, air travel works best when passengers remember that they are sharing the experience with dozens or even hundreds of others. Small acts of consideration go a long way toward making the journey smoother for everyone.

Even government officials have begun encouraging better in-flight manners. Last November, U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy launched a civility campaign encouraging travelers to restore courtesy and class to air travel. Among the suggestions was the simple request that passengers wear headphones when using personal devices.

It is a modest expectation, yet one that reflects something deeper. Flying, despite its occasional frustrations, remains a remarkable privilege. In a matter of hours, we can travel thousands of miles, crossing oceans and continents that once required weeks or months to traverse.

As Tom and I continue our own travels around the world, we are always reminded that the experience becomes far more pleasant when people show just a bit of consideration for those around them. In that sense, United’s updated rule is not really about headphones at all. It is simply a gentle reminder that a little courtesy can make the skies feel a lot more peaceful for everyone aboard.

Next week, we’ll begin sightseeing and sharing new photos here.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 6, 2016:

As soon as we got out of our car on Tasman Street on AmeriCARna Day (a sunny day), we knew entering this historic theatre in New Zealand would be a treat. For more photos, please click here.

Part 2…Exterior photos of our new holiday home and surroundss…A little about the history of Penguin…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 2, 2026 with 0 Comment

Aerial view of Sunrise at Penguin holiday home in Penguin, Tasmania.

There is something quietly endearing about the little coastal town of Penguin, Tasmania. It does not shout for attention the way some seaside destinations do. Instead, it welcomes you gently, with salty air, tidy streets, and the steady sounds of waves rolling onto the shore. Ten years after our first visit, arriving again felt less like discovering somewhere new and more like returning to an old friend who had been patiently waiting.

The walkway running along the shore in Penguin is the Penguin Foreshore Walking Trail.

Penguin sits along the northwest coast of Tasmania, about midway between Burnie and Devonport. With Bass Strait stretching endlessly before it and rolling green farmland rising behind, the setting alone is enough to slow your heartbeat. But what makes Penguin memorable is its personality.

This is a town that has embraced its name with a wink and a smile. Penguin statues appear throughout the streets and along the foreshore, playful reminders of the little fairy penguins that nest along this stretch of coastline. The most famous of these is the oversized penguin sculpture standing proudly near the waterfront, a cheerful sentinel greeting visitors as they arrive.

There are many rocky areas along the beaches, but plenty of sand as well.

Despite its charm, Penguin is not overly polished or touristy. It still feels like a real working town, where locals stop to chat on the sidewalk, and the pace of life moves comfortably below the national average.

How Penguin Got Its Name

Long before the town itself existed, this coastline was known for its population of little penguins, the smallest penguin species in the world. Early European settlers, arriving in the mid-nineteenth century, noticed the birds coming ashore at dusk and began referring to the area simply as Penguin Creek. Over time, the name shortened to Penguin, and it stuck.

View of Penguin from Terry and Fran’s home in the hills.

The town was officially gazetted in 1875, though European settlement in the area began earlier in the 1860s. Like many Tasmanian coastal communities, Penguin grew from practical beginnings. Timber cutting, agriculture, and small-scale shipping all played important roles in its early development.

What makes Penguin’s naming story feel especially fitting is that the birds are still here. At dusk, if you are patient and quiet, you can sometimes spot the little penguins returning from the sea, just as they did more than a century ago.

There’s an outdoor table and chairs on the front porch overlooking the sea.

Growth Through Industry and Community

In its early decades, Penguin served as a modest port. The surrounding region proved fertile for farming, particularly potatoes and dairy, and the town became a shipping point for local produce. Timber from nearby forests also moved through the area.

The arrival of the railway in the late nineteenth century helped Penguin grow steadily, connecting it more efficiently to larger Tasmanian centers. Even so, it never expanded into a major industrial hub. Instead, it maintained the scale and feel of a close-knit coastal community.

Another view of the shoreline in Penguin.

One thing that stands out when spending time here is how much of that community spirit remains intact. Penguin is known across Tasmania for its volunteerism and civic pride. Locals have long taken an active role in maintaining the town’s gardens, public spaces, and events. It shows in the tidy streets and the well-cared-for foreshore.

The Penguin of Today

Modern Penguin balances its working town roots with a quiet tourism appeal. Visitors come for the coastal walks, the relaxed atmosphere, and the simple pleasure of being somewhere that has not rushed to reinvent itself.

The Sunday market draws both locals and travelers, offering everything from homemade jams to crafts and secondhand treasures. On Sunday, we plan to go to the market and take photos there to share here.

The beachfront playground and walking paths invite long, unhurried strolls, especially in the golden light of late afternoon. Yet what lingers most after a visit is not any single attraction. It is the feeling. Penguin has managed to hold onto something increasingly rare: authenticity without pretense.

When we drive through town now, just as we did ten years ago, there is that same peaceful sense of ease. The sea still breathes steadily against the shore. The little penguins still come home at dusk. And the town itself continues, comfortably and confidently, being exactly what it has always been.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 3, 2016:

Kitty-corner crosswalks are legal in many locations in New Zealand. For more photos, please click here.

Part 1…Photos of our new holiday home for the next six weeks…Sunrise at Penguin…Delightful!…

Posted by worldwide-admin on March 1, 2026 with 2 Comments

This is the lounge in Sunrise at Penguin, one we enjoyed ten years ago and are enjoying and appreciating it as much as we did then! What a view!

Weather update: It has been raining here for many days. We are anxious to get out on a sunny day to visit some special spots and take photos. Today, we’re off to the butcher shop and then to Woolies supermarket in Ulverstone.

Stepping into this beautiful holiday home again, ten years after our first stay, felt like opening a well-loved book to a favorite chapter. Some places welcome you back without hesitation, and this one does exactly that. From the moment we arrived, a familiar sense of ease settled over us, the kind that only comes from a space that is both thoughtfully designed and genuinely cared for.

The lounge has comfortable furniture. As I write this today, I am seated on this leather sofa, overlooking the sea.

The home itself strikes that perfect balance between comfort and charm. Natural light pours generously through the large windows, illuminating the open living areas in a soft, inviting glow. Even on a cool Tasmanian morning, the space feels warm and alive. The layout flows effortlessly from one room to the next, making it ideal not only for relaxing but also for the gentle flow of daily living that comes with longer stays.

One of the standout features is the spacious living room, where plush seating invites you to linger longer than planned. It is easy to experience cozy evenings here, perhaps with a good movie or simply enjoying conversation after dinner. The furnishings are comfortable without feeling overly formal, creating a space that encourages us to put our feet up and truly unwind. After years of travel and countless temporary homes, we have learned to appreciate these small but meaningful touches.

The kitchen/dining room has many fine features.

The kitchen is another highlight and clearly designed with real living in mind. It is well-equipped with modern appliances, ample counter space, and all the cookware one could reasonably need. For travelers like us, who often prepare most of our meals, this makes an enormous difference. There is something deeply satisfying about being able to settle into a kitchen and cook as though we lived there, even if only for a short while. Everything is laid out logically, making meal preparation feel effortless rather than like a chore in unfamiliar surroundings.

There are three bedrooms. We chose this one, with the view and the most lovely sounds of the ocean.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the dining area offers a pleasant spot to savor our home-cooked meals. The table is perfectly positioned to catch the natural light during the day, making even a simple meal feel a bit more special. We have always believed that where you eat matters almost as much as what you eat, and this space proves that point beautifully.

The bedrooms continue the home’s theme of comfort and calm. Each room is thoughtfully prepared with quality linens, supportive mattresses, and enough storage actually to unpack and settle in. That last detail is one many holiday rentals overlook, but it makes a tremendous difference for longer stays. There is a quiet, restful atmosphere in these rooms that encourages deep sleep, something every traveler learns never to take for granted. Unfortunately, I didn’t sleep well last night. Hopefully, I’ll catch up tonight.

The bathroom facilities are equally well maintained, clean, and modern without feeling sterile. Good water pressure, plenty of hot water, and thoughtful extras all contribute to the sense that the owners truly understand what guests need. It is these practical comforts, working seamlessly in the background, that elevate a good stay into a memorable one.

The bathroom is a little unusual with the toilet in a separate room.

Outside, the property continues to shine. The surrounding area is peaceful and beautifully kept, offering a lovely sense of privacy without feeling isolated. Whether enjoying a morning coffee outdoors or simply taking a few quiet moments to breathe in the fresh coastal air, the outdoor spaces add another layer of relaxation to the experience. Tasmania has a way of wrapping you in its calm, and this home takes full advantage of that gift.

Location, of course, plays its part as well. The home is conveniently situated close enough to local shops and attractions to make errands easy, yet far enough removed to maintain a tranquil atmosphere. For travelers like us, who appreciate both accessibility and quiet, this balance is ideal. It allows us to settle into a comfortable routine without feeling cut off from the surrounding community.

What makes returning here especially meaningful is the sense of continuity. So much has changed in our lives over the past 13 years of travel, yet walking through these familiar rooms brings back a flood of warm memories. It is rare to revisit a place after so many years and find that it still lives up to your recollection. If anything, this home and Penguin feel even more welcoming now, perhaps because we learned more clearly what truly matters in a temporary residence.

Above all, this holiday home succeeds because it feels intentional. Every element, from the comfortable furnishings to the well-stocked kitchen, reflects care and attention. It is not simply a place to sleep between outings. It is a place to live, even if only for a little while.

We’d love to dine outdoors, but it’s cold here now. On a warm day, we will enjoy this lovely outdoor dining area with a fireplace.

We are genuinely thrilled to be staying here again. In the unpredictable journey with long-term travel, finding a property that offers both familiarity and comfort is a gift we never take lightly. Ten years later, this lovely home has once again wrapped us in its quiet charm, and we are grateful to be back.

To see this listing, should you have a chance to visit this magical town, please click here.

Please check back tomorrow for Part 2, Sunrise at Penguin, with more seaviews and outdoor photos.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, March 2, 2016:

Elouise almost looks as if she is smiling as she sees the cria’s birth was going as nature intended, with the front legs showing. We were also relieved. For more photos, please click here.

Photos and information about our current holiday home in Penguin, Tasmania…We’re moving in two days!…

Posted by worldwide-admin on February 26, 2026 with 2 Comments

image 1 of 8, Kitchenette image 1 — This is the spacious lounge room with comfy recliners, a smart TV, and a well-equipped kitchen.

Link to Airbnb listing with pricing.

Kaz Retreat offers a peaceful and stylish escape that feels thoughtfully designed for travelers who crave comfort without fuss. The rate is AUD $200, US 142, per night for the first two nights, and AUD $150, US $106.49, per night for each additional evening, not including taxes and service fees. Even before stepping inside, the sense of calm began to settle in for us. Surrounded by beautiful, well-kept gardens, the property feels tucked away from the world in the best possible way, the kind of place where we could instinctively lower our voices and breathe a little deeper.

image 2 of 8, Bedroom image 1 — The bed was exceptionally comfortable, and we slept well here.

When we think about places that truly allow us to unwind, location always plays a big role. Kaz Retreat sits just 10 minutes from the charming seaside village of Penguin, the town that continues to win hearts with its easy-going coastal personality. We have always found Penguin to be the sort of place that invites lingering. The shops are welcoming, the seaside bars offer relaxed views of the water, and the coastal air carries that clean, slightly salty scent that reminds you why Tasmania is so special.

For those who enjoy staying active while traveling, the area surrounding the retreat offers plenty of appealing options. Scenic bike tracks stretch toward both Devonport and Burnie, making it easy to spend a morning or afternoon exploring the coastline at your own pace. These rides are not just about exercise. They are about the quiet pleasure of movement, the pace of the pedals, and the ever-changing views of sea and countryside that seem to unfold gently with every kilometer.

image 3 of 8, Full bathroom image 1 — The bathroom was well-stocked and spacious with double sinks and a huge shower.

Even closer to the retreat, within about two minutes, outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves well positioned. The nearby trails at Mount Montgomery are popular with mountain bikers who appreciate well-maintained tracks and varied terrain. For those who prefer their adventures on foot, the bushwalking opportunities at Mount Gnomon provide a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the region. There is something deeply grounding about walking through Tasmanian bushland, especially in the early morning when the air still carries a hint of coolness.

Golfers and sports lovers are also well catered for. The nearby Penguin Golf Club offers a pleasant course in a relaxed setting, while the local bowling green and football stadium provide additional options for those who enjoy community sport and recreation. It is the kind of area where staying busy is easy, yet doing nothing at all feels equally acceptable.

image 5 of 8, Additional photos image 1 — Since the property is new and we’re the first guests, we didn’t use the gas grill, preferring not to be the first to dirty it.

For travelers looking to explore further afield, Kaz Retreat makes a convenient base. The town of Smithton is about an hour’s drive away, ideal for a leisurely day trip through Tasmania’s northwest. And for those drawn to the island’s more dramatic natural landscapes, the iconic wilderness of Cradle Mountain can be reached in roughly two hours. That proximity makes it entirely possible to spend the day immersed in alpine scenery and still return to the retreat’s quiet comfort by evening.

What stands out most about Kaz Retreat is the balance it offers. It is peaceful without feeling isolated, stylish without being pretentious, and conveniently located without sacrificing that all-important sense of escape. For travelers like us, who have spent years moving from place to place, accommodations that strike this balance are the ones we remember long after we have moved on to the next location.

The owner, Karen, has been fantastic!

image 4 of 8, Backyard image 1 — The grounds here are exceptionally beautiful.

In just two days, on Sunday, we will gather up every last belonging and make our way to the Sunrise at Penguin house by noon, a short 15-minute drive from here. It will take us two trips to move everything, one for our bags in the tiny car, and another for the stash of groceries we have managed to accumulate. We have truly loved every minute at Kaz, settling easily into its quiet comfort. Still, we find ourselves looking forward with warm anticipation to Terry and Fran’s lovely property, where we happily stayed ten years ago while making such pleasant memories.

Be well.

Photo from ten years ago today, February 27, 2016:

Street rod at the AmeriCarna show in New Zealand, ten years ago. We weren’t certain as to the model or year. For more photos, please click here.

TripAdvisors top rated places to visit in 2026…

Posted by worldwide-admin on February 26, 2026 with 0 Comment

We still smile when I think about the covered huts and the breezy cabana beside the pool at the Bali vacation home we rented, not once but twice, in 2016. Over those four sweet months, that tranquil space became part of our daily lives.. Mornings began with coffee under the thatched roof, the warm air already hinting at another languid tropical day. Afternoons drifted by as we cooled off in the sparkling pool, grateful for the privacy and calm. Even now, I can almost feel the gentle Bali breeze and hear the quiet rustle of palm leaves overhead. For more photos, please click here.

Travel + Leisure online magazine posted this article today which can be found here:

“This is the No. 1 Place to Visit in 2026, According to Tripadvisor—and It Is a Beach-filled Island Getaway

TripAdvisor ranked an Asian island the best destination in the world for 2026, based on millions of traveler reviews and ratings. By Lauren Dana Ellman Published on February 25, 2026

While up-and-coming destinations rotate onto travelers’ bucket lists, Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Destinations – Top World spotlights the places with true staying power. Drawn from millions of reviews and ratings submitted to Tripadvisor over the past year, the annual ranking highlights destinations that continue to earn consistent praise from travelers worldwide.

This year, Bali claimed the No. 1 spot—and it’s easy to see why. Indonesia’s most-visited island has evolved into a wellness hub, with yoga retreats, meditation centers, and spa-focused stays clustered around Ubud and along the coast. At the same time, though, beach clubs and nightlife scenes in places like Seminyak and Canggu offer a buzzier counterpoint. Travelers can also explore scenic and sacred temples and cultural sites, including Pura Taman Ayun and Pura Ulun Danu Batur, both part of the island’s UNESCO-listed Subak irrigation system. Paired with its varied landscapes—beaches, rice paddies, jungle interiors, and volcanic terrain—Bali offers a wide range of experiences in a single trip, without requiring long-distance travel.

Coming in at second place, London reflects a different kind of staying power. Its eclectic neighborhoods function almost as small cities, each with its own distinct charm and character. Museums, theaters, galleries, and restaurants are spread throughout the city, as well, which means cultural life isn’t limited to a single downtown area.

Dubai ranks third on the list and is the only Middle Eastern destination to make the top 10, standing out for its scale and juxtaposition. A futuristic skyline defined by record-setting skyscrapers, including the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa, and massive commercial developments such as the Dubai Mall, sits alongside working souks, older neighborhoods like the Al Fahidi Historical District, public beaches, and wide-open desert and towering dunes on the city’s outskirts.

Other familiar cities rounding out the top 10 include Paris, Rome, and Crete in Europe; Hanoi and Bangkok in Asia; Marrakech, the only African destination on the list; and New York City, the sole U.S. pick.

Here is the full list:

Bali, Indonesia
London, U.K.
Dubai, U.A.E.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Paris, France
Rome, Italy (only Tom, years ago)
Marrakech, Morocco
Bangkok, Thailand
Crete, Greece
New York City, U.S.”

Tag: nomads

Jess’s Low-Carb Sausage, Mushroom, and Chicken Casserole

How Penguin Got Its Name

Growth Through Industry and Community

The Penguin of Today

“This is the No. 1 Place to Visit in 2026, According to Tripadvisor—and It Is a Beach-filled Island Getaway