Michigan modern architecture a draw for travelers

Stop by the Minoru Yamasaki-designed McGregor Memorial Conference Center at Wayne State University in Detroit and its halls are open for a stroll through what’s considered a masterpiece from the World Trade Center architect. Across the state in Muskegon, at St. Francis De Sales church, a visit most days can get you a guided tour [...]

Late-breaking deals for Winter Olympic Games

It’s not too late, you know. Yes, the Olympics are only two weeks away and, yes, most tickets were scooped up as soon as they became available and, yes, accommodations have been scarce or shockingly expensive. But if you want to go to the XXI Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler, you still can. You [...]

Mardi Gras World celebrates Carnival year-round

It’s always carnival time at Mardi Gras World. The family-run business has been making mega-floats for some of the biggest and best Mardi Gras parades for more than 60 years. The company is now showing off its innovative designs in a 300,000-square-foot warehouse, a fantasy world of papier mache, fiberglass, plaster and millions of twinkling [...]

With open arms, Vancouver emblem has curious past

The emblem of the Olympic Winter Games is a colorful humanoid with arms spread wide, a contemporary interpretation of a stone landmark called an inukshuk with a history stretching back more than 3,000 years in Inuit culture. Sitting atop the Olympic Rings, the symbol looms large on licensed merchandise and is sure to generate curiosity [...]

10 great places to have a slice of National Pie Day

When it’s time for dessert on Saturday, make sure to order pie. It’s National Pie Day — as if the American Pie Council really needed to give us an excuse to have a slice. Whether sweet or tart, flaky or crusty, pie is an American tradition, says Ed Levine, founder of SeriousEats, a website devoted [...]

Winter getaways: Escaping the cold to the Caribbean

There are more than 7,000 islands and reefs sprinkled throughout the Caribbean Sea. Isn’t it time you explored some place new? We’ve unearthed six singular destinations where you can stake out your own quiet stretch of sand. Isla de Providencia, Colombia The residents of Providencia, a 25-minute flight from neighboring San Andrés Island, make much [...]

Vancouver tips: Prepare for rain, border delays

Here are some tips for planning a trip to Vancouver. WEATHER: Winter in Vancouver means rain, so pack an umbrella. February temperatures in Vancouver are usually in the 30s and 40s, while temperatures at Whistler are typically in the 20s and 30s, often with snow or rain. In December 2008, a snowstorm paralyzed Vancouver International [...]