Phoenix AZ

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

* Schedule subject to change

DATESTOURNAMENT COVERAGE

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

MAR 18 - 24

MAR 25 - 31

APRIL 1 - 7

APRIL 8 - 14

APRIL 15 - 21

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

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Grand Reserve Golf Club, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico GOLF

THE PLAYERS Championship

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

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

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, ESPN+

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

DATESTOURNAMENT COVERAGE

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

JUNE 3 - 9

JUNE 10 - 16

JUNE 17 - 23

JUNE 24 - 30

JULY 1 - 7

JULY 8 - 14

Corales Puntacana Championship

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

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

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

The Memorial Tournament presented by Workday

Muirfield Village Golf Club, Dublin, Ohio

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

J

ohn Deere Classic

TPC Deere Run, Silvis, Illinois

Genesis Scottish Open ^

The Renaissance Club, North Berwick, Scotland

CBS, ESPN+

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

NBC, USA NETWORK, PEACOCK

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

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

DATESTOURNAMENT COVERAGE

JULY 8 - 14

JULY 15 - 21

JULY 22 - 28

JUNE 29 - AUG 4

AUG 5 - 11

AUG 12 - 18

AUG 19 - 25

AUG 26 - SEP 1

TBA Event

TBA, TBA GOLF

Barracuda Championship

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

3M Open

TPC Twin Cities, Blaine, Minnesota

Olympic Men’s Golf Competition #

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

Le Golf National, Paris, France GOLF

Wyndham Championship

Sedgefield Country Club, Greensboro, North Carolina

FEDEX CUP PLAYOFFS

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

CBS, GOLF, ESPN+, SXM

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

2024 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change **

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX

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.

FEBRUARY

FEB 10 | JAMAICAN FESTIVAL

The Afro-Caribbean Cultural Association of Arizona in partnership with Ocho Rios Jerk Spot and Big Dreamz promotions invites you to our Annual Jamaican Roots, Jerk & Reggae Festival! It’s going to be a fun day full of food, culture, music and vibes from Africa, Jamaica and the Caribbean islands! For more info visit: jerkfestivalaz.com

FEB 24 | CULINARY CLASSIC

The most anticipated culinary event in the region, Devour Culinary Classic brings together the culinary and beverage leaders that are establishing Arizona as a sought-after destination. Enjoy Arizona’s best food and beverage amidst the beautiful backdrop of the largest botanical garden in the Southwest. For more info visit: devourphoenix.com

MARCH

MARCH 1 - 31 | RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Don’t miss Raucous Revelry at the Annual Arizona Renaissance Festival! This unique outdoor event combines entertainment and wares reminiscent of what may have been found in a 16th Century European village market celebrating the arrival of the King and Queen to their shire. Walk through the gates to be transported back in time. For more info visit: arizona.renfestinfo.com

MARCH 16 | ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

The Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Parade began in 1984. Its purpose is to preserve and enhance the heritage and traditions of Irish Culture as well as share that culture with the citizens of Arizona. The Parade has marching bands, Irish step dancers, bagpipers, police and fire vehicles, government dignitaries, floats and a whole lot more! For more info visit: stpatricksdayphoenix.org

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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX

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.

(. . .continued from 26)

APRIL

APRIL 4 -14 | FILM FESTIVAL

Our mission is to support and develop the artistic appreciation, educational opportunities and growth of independent film within Arizona. So grab your popcorn and enjoy these amazingly curated independent films! For more info visit: phoenixfilmfestival.com

APRIL 10 - 14 | COUNTY FAIR

The Maricopa County Fair is held annually at the Arizona State Fairgrounds. The Fair features the largest county fair carnival in Phoenix with over 35 rides. Foodies will appreciate the wide selection of fair food. Like to shop? The shopping pavilion is filled with over 60 vendors plus there are over 25 more vendors outside. Agriculture and livestock are a part of the fair’s history and tradition and is a mainstay at the fair. For more info visit: maricopacountyfair.org

MAY

MAY 5 | CINCO DE MAYO

Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival is a historic staple of the City of Phoenix. Cinco de Mayo signifies the victory of the Mexican army over the French in 1862. Enjoy music, lucha libre, baile folklorico, great food and drink and activities for the entire family. For more info visit: cincophx.com

MAY 17 - 26 | RESTAURANT WEEK

This statewide affair offers foodies a wealth of dining opportunities and the chance to get outside their own neighborhood and try something new. From sizzling Southwestern and soothing comfort foods to five-star dining and international fare – it’s all on the table during Arizona Restaurant Week. So prepare your taste buds and dig in. For more info visit: arizonarestaurantweek.com

MAY 17 - 19 | WINE FESTIVAL

The festival will feature 20 Arizona Wineries pouring over 200 differ-

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LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE

PHOENIX

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.

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ent wines. As well as different food trucks, a vintage village and numerous other non-winery vendors. There will be live entertainment throughout the festival. Come on by to enjoy a weekend full of wine and fun! For more info visit:

http://tinyurl.com/3cbxm2kk

JUNE

JUNE 8 | BEER FESTIVAL

Real, Wild & Woody Craft Beer Festival, presented by the Arizona Craft Brewers Guild, features rare, unique and unconventional brews, including more than 300 different cask ales, wild brews and barrel aged beers, there is something for everyone. For more info visit:

http://tinyurl.com/3k3sjzv7

JULY

JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY

The Greater Phoenix area is famous for its massive Fourth of July celebrations with spectacular fireworks, tasty barbecues and thousands of people on the streets enjoying their festive family

outing. Let’s celebrate America’s birthday with a bang this year! For more info visit:

https://bit.ly/35FTcPX

JULY 1 - 28 | HAMILTON

One of the Founding Fathers, Alexander Hamilton’s story is an extraordinary one. Born out of wedlock in the West Indies, and orphaned by the time he was 11, he arrived in New Jersey in 1772 to begin his grammar school education. From there he played a major role in the American revolutionary war, rising through the ranks to become an aide to George Washington. But that was only the beginning of the great man’s story, with the proceeding chapters in his life taking in everything from sex scandals, fatal duels and the creation of the American Constitution. For more info visit:

http://tinyurl.com/3vznz2dm

AUGUST

AUG 3 - 4 | CHILI FESTIVAL

If you like to cook chili, compete

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX

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.

and have fun... you’re in the right place! Chili Cooks from around the southwest gather to cook and compete for a chance to qualify for the World Championship Chili Cookoff. Red chili, chili verde and salsa winners from each day will go to the WCCC. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/32JnK5I

AUG 29 - 3 | CRAFT & SEWING FESTIVAL

Come join us at our Festival in Scottsdale - At the Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival you will find a wide variety of Sewing, Quilting, Needle-Art and Craft supply exhibits from many quality companies. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3sC0Y9u

SEPTEMBER

SEPT 20 - 30 | STATE FAIR

For more than a century, the Arizona State Fair has been a gathering place for residents from the far corners of the state. Filled with cute animals, blue ribbons, fried food, and all the fun carnival rides

you can imagine. For more info visit: azstatefair.com

OCTOBER

OCT TBA | UFO CONGRESS

The International UFO Congress is an Arizona based organization dedicated to the dissemination of information related to UFOs and the search for extraterrestrial life. The conference was established in 1991 and is held annually. It is the largest of its kind in the world. It features presentations given by scientists, academics, authors, researchers, experts, and those who have experienced anomalous phenomena. For more info visit: ufocongress.com

OCT TBA | OKTOBERFESTS

Four Peaks & Tempe Sister Cities invite you to Oktoberfest! A weekend full of entertainment for all ages, German food & beers and plenty of Oom Pah Pah! This event is a long standing Tempe tradition celebrating 50 years and benefitting the work of Tempe

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE PHOENIX

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.

Sister Cities. For more info visit: fourpeaksoktoberfest.com

NOVEMBER

Nov 16 | USIC FESTIVAL Country Music’s Hottest Artists

Under Arizona’s Desert Sky for One Unforgettable Night! For more info visit: http://tinyurl.com/2u37nsn9

DECEMBER

DEC 15 | HOT CHOCOLATE 5K

We’re back for another LIVE Hot Chocolate season! Join the movement that’s taken over the racing world, the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k is headed to Phoenix! Start and finish amongst Phoenix’s biggest chocolate aficionados. Train, race, and celebrate with us all the way to the finish line. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3u3lotM

JANUARY

JAN TBA | BALLOON CLASSIC Balloons will lift off into the beautiful desert sky. One of Arizona’s most popular outdoor signature events and the only hot air balloon race in the state. A field full of illuminated hot air balloons will glow in time to music. Come bring your appetite, as there will be an amazing variety of festival foods! For more info visit: abcfest.com

* Schedule subject to change

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

2024 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT

HEALTH & FOOD

Eating healthy and having a holistic approach to wellness focuses on mind, body and soul. Foods that enhance energy, heart health, improve sleep and increase muscle strength are growing in popularity. High protein, low calorie, and low carbohydrate meals are the way to go. The movement towards plant-based items for health and environmental reasons is here to stay.

Sugar intake is a concern for many.

A popular sugar alternative is dates which are very sweet and have been used for thousands of years. They are high in nutrients, antioxidants and fiber. Some say they are good for brain health as well as digestion. Eaten whole or used in baked treats, they provide all the sweetness needed.

To lose weight or simply to eat a little bit healthier, there are several different approaches you can take.

The Whole Food Diet is probably the most recommended diet. It is about avoiding or limiting processed foods, preservatives or artificial ingredients while sticking to lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and eggs. Limiting meat is a part of this diet as well. Not only is this diet healthy for you, but it is healthy for the planet as processed foods require more resources such as water and energy, thus creating more pollution.

The PALEO Diet is based on foods eaten in the Paleolithic period of hunter gatherer societies thousands of years ago, before farming.

The KETO Diet is a low carbohydrate, high fat diet that helps burn fat for energy rather than carbs, thus triggering weight loss. According to Healthline, the foods to eat on this diet are: meat, fatty fish,eggs, butter and cream, cheese, nuts and seeds, olive or avocado oil, avocados, and low carb vegetables and condiments.

The Vegetarian Diet is made up of plant-based foods which include fruits and vegetables, grains, legumes and nuts. No meat or dairy products including eggs and other milk products are consumed. There is a trend to eat more fruits and vegetables and new products are continually coming to the market. Non-dairy milk alternatives like oat, soy and almond are popular replacements for milk. New plantbased pasta alternatives like chickpea or zucchini pasta help us eat more vegetables and additional options are continually being introduced.

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.