Travel Classes to Enlighten and Inspire

Travel talk is the next best thing to being on the road. I get all fired up inspiring others to see the world. In my opinion, it's more than exploring new destinations. I like to think of it as leaving your comfort zone behind to try different things. 

If you live in the Madison area and have an interest in budget travel, click on those links below to sign up. 
 

 
We will chat about international travel on February 9th. I'm currently at 13 countries and my favorite thus far is Italy. What's yours?

Jaw-dropping Positano

The second winter class will be held on March 18th, discussing travel in the U.S. My goal is to hit one city in every state. Who's with me? 

The beautiful Capitol in Des Moines

Come hungry to learn, share ideas, and leave ready to book that adventure. 

https://apm.activecommunities.com/minicourses/Activity_Search/international-travel-on-a-budget/9202

https://apm.activecommunities.com/minicourses/activity_search/us-travel-on-a-budget/9203

Beer Me at the Mason Lounge

Are you like me and become really enthusiastic when you find the perfect place to throw back a few beers? Color me happy, because my new centrally located digs are within walking distance of the Mason Lounge.

As soon as you enter this easygoing bar, you will feel like you are at a friend's house. Check any pretensions at the door, because they aren't needed here. Kick back on a bar stool, high top or cozy sofa. Marvelous tchotchkes can be found just about everywhere you look.

The proprietor, Bryan, and his staff, are extremely friendly and will take good care of you. There is a dandy assortment of wine and whiskey; however, the real draw (in my book) is the impressive selection of craft beer. You may do a double take when you see the sweet prices that go along with them, averaging about $5 per beer. 

I enjoyed everything I sampled including Des Chutes Red Chair IPA, Furthermore Floating Fire, and especially the New Belgium Portage Porter and Widmer KGB Imperial Stout, which are pictured below.

FYI - not the typical glass size

I don't need another reason to make a date with the Mason Lounge, but if you do, they offer live music and no TVs. The overhead music won't break your eardrums, so you are good with conversation. This would also be a cool place to bring the folks (if you like hanging out with them).

I'm proud to say that I plan to be a regular. Whether you are a local or just breezing through town, you need to check out the Mason Lounge. 

Follow their Facebook page to learn about upcoming events and the current tap list -  https://www.facebook.com/pages/the-MASON-lounge/115147651844969
 

What College Football Does to Madison

  

The city of Madison is serious about their sports. We have a massive number of devoted Badger fans who take to the streets to prove it. So what happens to Madison when the Wisconsin Badgers football team is in town? A great deal of quirkiness; that's what!

*The city becomes a sea of red

*People convert their garage
*Red & white overalls are noted with one side down

*Dogs dress the part

*Partying begins early in the morning
*Red Solo cup sales soar

*Entire parking lots are reserved
*Londonesque buses arrive

*Fans take over sidewalks, streets, balconies and porches
*Influential signs are hung 

Want a piece of the action? Check out the schedule right here - http://www.uwbadgers.com/sports/m-footbl/sched/wis-m-footbl-sched.html 

On Wisconsin!

Attend the next 30 Minute Music Hour!

 
I love social media, because it recently led me to something I can't get enough of.  Last weekend I attended my first 30 Minute Music Hour taping at the Wisconsin Public Television studio.

Picture yourself in someone's spacious living room with a live band performing right in front of your eyes.  That is the experience you will have if you attend one of these free tapings.

The 30 Minute Music Hour is an intimate setting complete with comfy chairs, sofas, tables and popcorn if you feel like nibbling.  It's reminiscent of the house concerts that are popular in Europe.

I was lucky to nab a front row seat to see the talented and entertaining Kyle Henderson and His Blue Eyed Soul Band.  The only difficult part was staying seated!  The music was so fantastic that I just wanted to be vertical and dance.  

Listen to the sweet sounds of Kyle Henderson and his band right here - http://video.wpt.org/video/2365210332/

I give this first-rate series an enthusiastic two thumbs up!  You can also be part of the show by signing up for the next episode on April 1st (provided there are still openings).  I am anxiously awaiting Klassik and Fresh Cut Collective's performance.
 
http://wptschedule.org/bemoretunedin/attend-a-live-taping-of-30-minute-music-hour/