Connecticut CT 1

2023-24 SCHEDULES

WHAT ARE ANNUITIES?

An annuity is an investment vehicle that can provide a guaranteed income for an individual or their spouse. It is a contract with an insurance company or financial institution where you contribute money upfront and at a specific time receive payments back over the course of your lifetime. There are several advantages to investing in an annuity. First, it is tax deferred which means no taxes until you begin taking the income. Second, you can choose a fixed rate annuity where you will always receive the

same amount regardless of market conditions. Third, you will receive payment even if you receive more than your original investment. Fourth, there are annuities with death benefits for heirs.

There are many different types of annuities, all of which have different features, benefits and costs but they fall into three main categories: fixed, fixed index and variable. There are two types of payout options- deferred and immediate.

FIXED ANNUITY

A fixed annuity is based on a set interest rate and can increase in value over time. It guarantees income payments over your lifetime with the possibility of death benefits for heirs. There are two ways to purchase - either through a lump sum payment or a series of payments that increase the value of your annuity and therefore the total payout.

VARIABLE ANNUITY

A variable annuity’s value will depend on market conditions and will rise and fall with the stock market. This means the possibility of a higher interest rate when the market is strong but in a weak market, the annuity could even lose value.

INDEXED ANNUITY

An indexed annuity is based on the performance of a particular market index and the value of the annuity will be based on that particular index. Interest will be based on the index’s interest rate.

WHY BUY AN ANNUITY?

It is a good opportunity to be sure you have the resources to cover your essential monthly expenses such as mortgage or rent, insurance, utilities , travel, etc. The best thing about an annuity is that it does not run out no matter your age or the value of the investment. Start by analyzing your monthly expenses to figure out how much

income you need to cover basic bills. Don’t forget to consider and plan for inflation. When considering an annuity, the most important thing is to be sure to understand what you are investing in. They are complicated investments. Work with a trusted financial adviser to ensure your understanding of the risks and potential returns.

FENG SHUI

IN COLOR & DESIGN

Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is an ancient Chinese practice rooted in the theory of Yin and Yang. It is the ancient Chinese practice of using energy forces to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment by organizing furniture, art, plants, and other objects within any given space or room to create peace and harmony.

It has been used for centuries to determine building sites such as the Forbidden City in Beijing, which is built on a north-south axis with the main entrance facing south. It was believed to be the most propitious direction according to the feng shui masters. Additionally, the pyramid addition to the Louvre in Paris, Trump Tower in Manhattan, and the Sydney Opera House in Sydney have all been influenced by feng shui principles.

In interior design, feng shui is a tool to help design a room that makes you feel good and enhances health, prosperity, harmony and balance for a joyful life.

Chinese philosophy is all about opposites - masculine and feminine, dark and light, warm and cold. Additionally, there is a focus on the 5 elements which are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These symbolize qualities such as stability, wisdom, growth and creativity. Decorating with the five elements is meant to bring joy and balance to your life.

According to Better Homes and Gardens, you can feng shui your home with a few simple tips:

Clear your home of clutter and open up the flow of traffic. This will create an atmosphere of calm by creating a welcoming entryway. Adding feng shui plants and positioning furniture in relation to the door will give a feeling of

control and empowerment, creating balance. And don’t forget to use feng shui with your color selections.

The bedroom is the most important room for applying the principles of feng shui since we all spend so much time there. It is important to have the bed face the door but not straight-on. It is preferable to have a wall behind the bed so that you are aware if anyone is entering your space. This is referred to as command position. Use soft and muted pastel colors or earthen tones that you’d find in nature. Plants are not recommended for the bedroom as they are active and produce energy which is not conducive to the calm environment required in the bedroom. However, they are desirable throughout the rest of the home. Some of the best plants include lucky bamboo, orchids, jade, snake or rubber plants.

Although there is no scientific basis for the use of feng shui in design, it is about making your environment a healthy and happy one for your family, so why not give it a try.

NEW TRENDS FOR Weddings

After the thrill of an engagement, all attention moves to the upcoming wedding. It is a happy and exciting time for any couple and one filled with many choices and decisions. It can also be a stressful time if not properly organized. To make it a joyous event, a plan is essential and it starts with making lists of things to accomplish. Technology has made it much easier. There are on-line wedding planning tools for couples to use. Not only do they simplify wedding preparation, they save time and keep everything organized and in one place as opposed to old fashioned methods.

Post-Covid backyard weddings are out and luxury is in. Couples want their venue to be special, whether it is the country club, a spectacular garden, a historic estate, or a clear top tent for dancing under the stars. They want it to reflect who they are and their own personal love story and even their cultural heritage.

Oftentimes, couples are going for smaller, more intimate affairs. This allows more time to spend with people they care about most. It also helps with the budget and allows for spending on special effects or treats. Decor has shifted from traditional white to brighter, bolder colors. Couples can now more easily express their personalities. Food and flowers are often designed to be environmentally friendly using locally sourced products. Champagne towers add a touch of elegance and they have made a big comeback.

Hanging florals are a new and dramatic trend along with decorative ceremony aisles. Special effects lighting is another new trend. For a really unique look, go for a custom dance floor as the dance floor is often the center of the action at the wedding party. A new special effect is called cold sparks. The best explanation is indoor fireworks which add drama and sparkle to any event. They can be used in a variety of ways. Use them to light up the bride and groom’s entrance to the party, for first dances, or for the couple’s departure.

It is all about creating a memorable experience unlike any other. If you don’t have a lot of time to plan and implement all that is required for your wedding, consider hiring a wedding planner or pick a venue that coordinates the details for you. Country Clubs and Hotels are good at that as they often have excellent party planners on staff. Although a private wedding planner will add to the expense, they make sure the entire process runs smoothly from design issues, overseeing the budget, sending invitations, tracking RSVPs, managing vendors, and coordinating the schedule of the wedding. At a minimum, be sure to have someone in charge on the day of the wedding for any last minute issues that arise.

2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

DATES TOURNAMENT

JAN 1 - 7

JAN 8 - 14

JAN 15 - 21

The Sentry + Plantation Course at Kapalua, Kapalua, Maui, Hawaii

Sony Open in Hawaii Waialae Country Club, Honolulu, Hawaii

PGA WEST

JAN 22 - 27

JAN 29 - FEB 4

FEB 5 - 11

FEB 12 - 18

FEB 19 - 25

FEB 26 - MAR 3

MAR 4 - 10

MAR 4 - 10

MAR 11 - 17

+ Signature Event

* Schedule subject to change

COVERAGE

GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Pete Dye Stadium Course, Nicklaus Tournament Course, La Quinta Country Club, La Quinta, California

Farmers Insurance Open Torrey Pines Golf Course, (South Course, North Course) San Diego, California

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am + Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, Pebble Beach, California

WM Phoenix Open

TPC Scottsdale (Stadium Course), Scottsdale, Arizona

The Genesis Invitational + The Riviera Country Club, Pacific Palisades, California

Mexico Open at Vidanta Vidanta Vallarta, Vallarta, México

The Classic in The Palm Beaches

PGA National Resort (The Champion), Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard + Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando, Florida

Puerto Rico Open Grand Reserve Golf Club, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

THE PLAYERS Championship

TPC Sawgrass (THE PLAYERS Stadium Course), Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored

^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

GOLF

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATES TOURNAMENT COVERAGE

MAR 18 - 24

MAR 25 - 31

APRIL 1 - 7

APRIL 8 - 14

APRIL 15 - 21

Valspar Championship

Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course), Palm Harbor, Florida

Texas Children’s Houston Open Memorial Park Golf Course, Houston, Texas

Valero Texas Open

TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course), San Antonio, Texas

Masters Tournament #

Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia

RBC Heritage + Harbour Town Golf Links, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Corales Puntacana Championship

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, ESPN+

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

APRIL 15 - 21

APRIL 22 - 28

APRIL 29 - MAY 5

MAY 6 - 12

MAY 6 - 12

MAY 13 - 19

MAY 20 - 26

MAY 27 - JUNE 2

Puntacana Resort & Club (Corales Golf Course), Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Zurich Classic of New Orleans

TPC Louisiana, Avondale, Louisiana

AT&T Byron Nelsons

TPC Craig Ranch, McKinney, Texas

Wells Fargo Championship + Quail Hollow Club, Charlotte, North Carolina

Myrtle Beach Classic

GOLF

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Dunes Golf & Beach Club, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina GOLF

PGA Championship # Valhalla Golf Club, Louisville, Kentucky

Charles Schwab Challenge

Colonial Country Club, Fort Worth, Texas

RBC Canadian Open Hamilton Golf & Country Club, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

CBS, ESPN+

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

JUNE 3 - 9

The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday + Muirfield Village Golf Club, Dublin, Ohio

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

+ Signature Event

# Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored

^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

2024 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATES TOURNAMENT COVERAGE

JUNE 10 - 16

JUNE 17 - 23

JUNE 24 - 30

JULY 1 - 7

JULY 8 - 14

JULY 8 - 14

JULY 15 - 21

JULY 22 - 28

JUNE 29 - AUG 4

AUG 5 - 11

U.S. Open #

Pinehurst Resort & Country Club (Course No. 2), Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina

Travelers Championship + Highlands, Cromwell, Connecticut

Rocket Mortgage Classic Detroit Golf Club, Detroit, Michigan

John Deere Classic TPC Deere Run, Silvis, Illinois

Genesis Scottish Open ^ The Renaissance Club, North Berwick, Scotland

NBC, USA NETWORK, PEACOCK

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

TBA Event TBA, TBA GOLF

Barracuda Championship Tahoe Mountain Club (Old Greenwood), Truckee, California GOLF

3M Open TPC Twin Cities, Blaine, Minnesota

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Olympic Men’s Golf Competition # Le Golf National, Paris, France GOLF

Wyndham Championship Sedgefield Country Club, Greensboro, North Carolina

FEDEX CUP PLAYOFFS

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

AUG 12 - 18

AUG 19 - 25

AUG 26 - SEP 1

FedEx St. Jude Championship TPC Southwind, Memphis, Tennessee

BMW Championship Castle Pines Golf Club, Castle Rock, Colorado

TOUR Championship East Lake Golf Club, Atlanta, Georgia

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

2023 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE CONNECTICUT

PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

OCTOBER

OCT 6 - 8 | MUSIC FESTIVAL

The countdown is on for Black Bear 2023—the much-anticipated FIFTH edition of our annual music festival! Join us for a 3-day musical adventure that brings together the best of rock, blues, folk, bluegrass, and more, in a celebration of America’s rich cultural diversity. For more info visit: blackbearmusicfest.com

Come for apple pancakes, fritters, hot dogs, bacon and, of course, slices of apple pie will be available for purchase as well.For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/3cb5tn53

NOVEMBER

NOV 4 - 5 | HOME SHOW

OCT 8 | HIGHLAND FESTIVAL

Our gates will open at 9am for visitors to wander throughout the vendors, band area, watch the Highland Dance competitions and also the Highland Games. For more info visit: s cotlandgames.org

The area’s largest gathering of home show exhibitors will be on display at the CT Convention Center for 2 days to present every conceivable product or service for the home. Talk to home contractors and home builders to find just the right designs at the right price for your home improvement project and budget. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/2p8273yh

NOV 10 - 12 | AUTO SHOW

OCT 28 | APPLE FEST

Many handmade apple baked goods will be for sale including our famous Apple Pies – come early to get your pies, we have sold out before 11am in the past! This year we welcome back the Apple Café!

Located at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, the Connecticut Auto Show is the perfect place to browse hundreds of the newest vehicles! It’s the premier showcase of the newest model year imported and domestic vehicles — cars, vans, cross-

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE CONNECTICUT

PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

overs, hybrids, light trucks and sport utilities – cars to suit every budget and life style. For more info visit: ctcar.org

NOV 26 | FILM FEST

Yule Film Fest is a one-of-a-kind holiday-inspired film festival that prides itself on being weird, unique, and beautiful. For more info visit: yulefilmfest.com

DECEMBER

DEC 1 - 17 | A CHRISTMAS STORY

It’s the 1940’s, and the play follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family’s temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys’ experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; Ralphie’s father winning a lamp shaped like a woman’s leg in a net stocking; Ralphie’s fantasy scenarios and more. A Christmas Story is des-

tined to become a theatrical holiday perennial. For more info visit:

https://tinyurl.com/3tvsms8u

DEC 7 - 10 | CHICAGO

A Broadway phenomenon since its inception in 1975, Chicago puts the BAD in, well bad-ass dames. A scorching musical satire on celebrity and crime, Chicago is a fearless portrayal of the pursuit of infamy that rings true in any decade. Set in 1920s Chicago, the tale focuses on two women both accused of murdering their lovers, and their insidious journey to freedom, justice be damned. For more info visit:

https://tinyurl.com/yt2es8nx

JANUARY

JAN 20 - 21 | HOME SHOW

Our events feature a wide selection of home improvement professionals in a fun, interactive environment. After meeting with and comparing our expert exhibitors, we know you’ll be inspired and motivated to start planning with

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE CONNECTICUT

PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

confidence. More importantly, we want you to be excited for all the fantastic possibilities that come with your project! For more info visit: homeshowhartford.com

JAN 31 | COMPANY

Phone rings, door chimes, in comes... Company! After taking London and Broadway by storm, Marianne Elliot’s gender-bent production of the Stephen Sondheim classic is now hitting the road on tour! First seen in 1970, Company was like no other Broadway musical of the time, disrupting the usual plotlines with a fresh series of vignettes that connect the intersecting lives and relationships of the characters. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/ycyte394

FEBRUARY

FEB

22 - 25 | GARDEN SHOW

Explore exhibits overflowing with fresh flowers, plants, herbs, bulbs, seeds, gardening books, garden equipment & much more. View beautifully landscaped gardens

full of greenery and stop by the Federated Garden Clubs of Connecticut design & horticulture competition. We also offer over 80 hours of seminars and demonstrations across a variety of topics. For more info visit: ctflowershow.com

MARCH

MARCH 1 - 3 |

ANNIE

Leapin’ lizards... Annie is going on tour! Annie is a delightful theatrical experience for the entire family. Don’t miss this Tony-winning Broadway production of the timeless family tale of Little Orphan Annie as it heads on its tour across the country. Just when we need it most, Annie returns to remind us that sunshine is always right around the corner. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/whdjcc4d

March 15 | Saint Patrick’s Day

The original parade was small by comparison to later efforts; but nonetheless a proud display of Irish spirit, led by our first Grand

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE CONNECTICUT

PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

Marshal, Martin Reidy, a respected member of the Irish-American community of Greater Bridgeport and a charter member of the Gaelic-American Club and the Ancient Order of Hibernians of Bridgeport. For more info visit: stpatricksdaybridgeport.com

APRIL

APRIL 30 |

HADESTOWN

Praised for its soaring imagination, vibrant retelling of a classic story and a sumptuous score that evokes smoky New Orleans jazz and bubbling Americana-tinged folk. Don’t miss out when the lauded musical hits the road on this hotly anticipated national tour! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/97mw85yx

MAY

MAY 31 | STOMP

A worldwide phenomenon, Stomp is unlike any show you’ve ever seen (or heard). The show features a rotating cast of hugely talented performers, who conjure up

heart-pounding music on an array of everyday household objects, including brooms, garbage can lids, vacuum cleaners, hammers and much much more. Add some wicked dancing and choreography to the mix and you’ve got Stomp! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/57wtbf4c

JUNE

JUNE

1 - 30 | MEDIEVAL FAIRE

Be transported to a bygone era filled with awe-inspiring performances, scrumptious delicacies, and a vast selection of artisan goods. Perfect for history buffs, cosplay enthusiasts, or those seeking a unique adventure, this is an event you won’t want to miss. For more info visit: robinhoodsfaire. com

JUNE 8 - 9 | HARTFORD TASTE

Hartford Taste provides an accessible gathering opportunity where our guests are encouraged to experience and enjoy the area’s diversity in food, music and culture

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE CONNECTICUT

PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS WE ALL PRACTICE SOCIAL AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING. DUE TO THE CURRENT OUTBREAK, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

making a meaningful impact on our region’s economy. For more info visit: thehartfordtaste.com

JULY

JULY TBA | SAILFEST

Sailfest is Southeastern Connecticut’s premiere summertime event, complete with a major fireworks display, amusement rides, free entertainment, ships, and over 200 vendors lining the streets. There will be plenty to see, buy, and eat, so make sure to come hungry and ready to try new food! For more info visit: sailfest.org

JULY 6 - 7 | ARTS & CRAFT SHOW

Presenting one of New England’s finest artists and crafters displaying their creations of juried fine arts and crafts including paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, woodworking, and paper products. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/yexutb84

AUGUST

AUG 3 | WATERMELON FEST

Here is your chance to enjoy a large scale flea market featuring over 70 vendors exhibiting in beautiful Coe Memorial Park in downtown Torrington, CT. Come shop for bargains while enjoying fresh watermelon, and other delicious items! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/2x5xb8c6

AUG 17 | OYSTER FESTIVAL

The Milford Oyster Festival will have 30,000 oysters! All oysters harvested in Milford waters by Briarpatch Enterprises, Inc. Try the sweet taste of Milford oysters and enjoy them with a craft beer or premium wine. For more info visit: milfordoysterfestival.com

SEPTEMBER

SEPT TBA | FAIR

Come visit the Durham Fair and you’ll see what a real fair is all about We know you will have a great time! For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/44xp9yvv

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

BANANA DATE NUT BREAD

• 3 ripe bananas mashed

• 2 eggs

• 1 stick butter

• 1 cup unbleached flour

• 1 cup whole wheat flour

• 1/2 cup shelled walnuts chopped

• 3/4 cup Medjool dates chopped and pitted blitzed with 1/4 cup water in a blender ( or 3/4 cup of sugar without water)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

• Grease a 9x5x3 bread pan

• Cream butter and date mixture

• Add eggs one at a time, beating well

• Sift flour, baking soda, and salt and add to creamed mixture

• Fold in mashed bananas, vanilla and walnuts

• Pour mixture into the bread pan

• Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean

• Cool for 10 minutes and then put on a rack

TRAIN EXPERIENCES Wonderful

If you haven’t traveled by train, you might like to try it. There are so many fantastic train trips available across the world. They offer opportunities not available any other way. There’s never the hassle of driving and missing the beautiful and scenic countryside. They are eco-friendly,

comfortable, relaxing and also offer refreshments. Trains start and end their journeys in cities and will transport you through diverse and incredible landscapes.

Here are a few amazing train trip options:

JACOBITE TRAIN BERNINA EXPRESS

If you are traveling in Scotland, be sure to check out the Jacobite. This journey is often described as the greatest rail journey in the world. It takes you 84 miles in total from Fort Williams in the highlands of Scotland to the most westerly stop in Arisaig. It passes by lakes and rivers including Lake Nevis, the deepest in Europe and through charming villages. There is a stop in Glenfinnan which was made famous as the site of the Harry Potter films. Then it is on to Mallaig which was founded in 1840 and is now a busy fishing port. It is a great spot for a walk or some shopping and dining. Try the fish and chips! Then take the return trip or consider taking the ferry to Skye and the Small Isles.

In Switzerland, be sure to check out the Bernina Express which is a 90 mile journey from Tirano in northern Italy to Chur in southeastern Switzerland. Highlights include unparalleled panoramic views of the steep peaks of the Swiss Alps, charming villages and shimmering lakes. With 55 tunnels through the mountains and numerous bridges and viaducts, the vistas are stunning. Chur is the oldest city in Switzerland and the old town is actually car-free. The train has earned UNESCO World Heritage Designation due to its architectural features and long history.

SKAGWAY RAILROAD RAILROAD MUSEUM

In Alaska, don’t miss the Bennett Lake Scenic Journey. A trip through history that began with the gold rush of 1898 when men sought routes to the Klondike and the White Pass. It began in Skagway and continued to British Columbia and the Yukon Territory. The train climbs from sea level to 3,00ft - a true marvel of engineering. Travel in a vintage train from Skagway to Carcass in the Yukon Territory. See snow capped peaks, forests, sparkling lakes, and amazing waterfalls. Visit Bennett Station and the White Pass Museum. You can do a walk through an old gold rush town. Then ride through remote sections of the lake that are otherwise only available by hiking the Chilkoot Trail.

In Parrish, Florida, visit the Museum and see the historic trains of the old South. Or take the 6-mile ride on an early 1900s train from Parrish to Willow to see a rail collection and exhibition. Also they host special train events including a train robbery experience.