August 2016 - Roving Jo

Top 10 reasons to visit Scotland

August 21, 2016 49 Comments

This post was most recently updated on September 15th, 2019

I must confess I fell in love with Scotland before I ever set foot on its lands. My love affair began while reading the Outlander about 8 years ago and I have wanted to visit Scotland ever since. I thought about and romanticized it so much that quite frankly I did not know if my high expectations would be met. I was afraid that all the buildup in my head would just lead to disappointment. But regardless I embarked on my journey and arrived in Scotland via train (and not the standing stones) in June 2016. To my relief, this small country with its untamed dramatic beauty, majestic castles, turbulent history, fresh food and fantastic drink, not only met my expectations but surpassed them. So here is my list (in no particular order) of top 10 reasons to visit Scotland:

Travel

A quick guide to the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva

August 17, 2016 28 Comments

Sanibel and Captiva are barrier Islands just 30 min from Ft. Myers on the Gulf Coast of Florida. With only about 7,000 residents these sleepy Islands still have a small town feel. You will not find any big chain establishments or any high rises to impede your views. You will find 15 miles of pristine beaches world class shelling, great fishing and a myriad of restaurants and activities. So how do you pick a beach to spend the day in? Here is a quick guide to help you select the perfect spot for you and if you read to the end I will reward you with the best kept secret of the Island.

Travel, Lifestyle

St. Louis – More than just some pretty sights

August 9, 2016 22 Comments

This post was most recently updated on August 9th, 2017

St. Louis was never on the top of my list of places to visit. However I was given the opportunity to attend a conference and spend some much needed girl time there this month. Therefore, I happily booked my ticket. Now I confess that St. Louis was so much more than pretty sights and fun with my girlfriends. This trip empowered me to be obsessively grateful and to become a defender of innocence. I write this not just to give you some tips on what to see and do when in St. Louis but to raise awareness on a topic that is difficult to talk about but that is so important.

Scotland, Travel

Five of the Best Hikes in Skye

August 2, 2016 32 Comments

This post was most recently updated on December 22nd, 2019

The Isle of Skye which is located on the North West coast of Scotland is a mysterious and fascinating place. For many years it has topped my list of must see destinations. Not only because of its beauty and dramatic landscapes but because of its fabulous hikes and walks. So after spending some amazing time hiking in the Isle of Skye I put together a list of five must do Hikes in Skye.

I love spending time outdoors and Skye is the perfect outdoor playground for anyone with adventure in their soul. So if like me, you have limited time on the Island and want to experience in that short time some of the best hikes and walks, then read on so you do not miss out on what I would consider five of the best hikes in Skye.