What is the relationship between Cliveden House and the American Revolution? Answer: a change in the course of history, the ramifications of which are interesting to contemplate. Frederick, Prince of Wales, and his family made this Italianate mansion their home in the mid-18th century. During a game of cricket on the estate’s grounds, Frederick was dealt an injury that ultimately proved to be fatal, so he never ascended to the throne. Instead, the crown went to his son, Georg

If you can only do one splurge hotel in your lifetime, seriously consider making it Ashford Castle! Ashford was the last of eight hotels I stayed in on a recent 3 1/2-week trip to England, Wales and Ireland. But I decided to start the trip reports with this one because it makes me think of eating dessert first. :) Ireland has many castle hotels (and sort-of castle hotels). To go there and not stay in one of them would be, to my way of thinking, to miss part of the Irish expe

Crystal Palace, Retiro Park, Madrid When a good friend told me that she thought Madrid was the most beautiful city she’d ever seen—and she'd seen a lot of them around the world—that was all I needed to hear. And it certainly did not disappoint. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen more fountains in one city. Here, there are matching ones on either side of the street. Some of the not-to-be-missed sites of this city are the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace and Retiro Park. In addition,