Author Archives: J. Matlock, Director of Fantasies

About J. Matlock, Director of Fantasies

Jeanette's wanderlust started as an Air Force brat crisscrossing the US visiting almost every state. Writing has always been a part of her life. While earning a BA in Journalism from the University of Central Florida, Jeanette found photography was the perfect compliment to writing. She is always on the outlook for what she calls "Right Time, Right Place" photographs that capture a once-in-a- lifetime moment. Her adult travels have taken her to Scotland, England, France, Switzerland and all over the US and she continues to crave going to places to experience adventure, great food and lifestyles. She has written travel journals for the web site IGOUGO.com to share her experiences to guide and encourage other travelers. Her descriptive writing style makes one feel as if they are there sharing the experience. Her love of writing is based on this simple truth: "When I am writing, I know that I am doing the thing I was born to do." (Anne Sexton).

Inns of Maine – The Danforth

 Classic Old Style Cozy Historic Meets Hip Asian Vibe (NOTE: I wrote about The Danforth on Tripadvisor back after our stay in 2014. The first part of this post is taken from that, with updated info on their transformation and … Continue reading

Posted in Breakfast, Historic Hotels, Inns/B & B's, Maine | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Maine Inns & B & B’s – James Place Inn

I love the experience of staying in an inn or B & B. Some have that wonderful cozy feel like you are staying with old friends. Others offer a chance to sleep in a historic setting while still others offer … Continue reading

Posted in Inns/B & B's, Maine | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

How Much Are National Parks Worth To You? Pay Your Share

When the discussion arose in the media a few months back that most of the popular national parks were going to raise their park pass fees during the busy months, it struck a chord with me. When we were in … Continue reading

Posted in Acadia National Park, Hiking | Tagged , , , | 2 Comments

Lobster, How I Love Thee. Let Me Count The Ways

When you visit Maine, most people have to eat the state’s best known food – Lobster (unless, unfortunately you happen to be allergic to shellfish). I spent some of my childhood in Maine & have fond memories of eating the … Continue reading

Posted in Dining, Maine | 2 Comments

Robert’s Christmas Wonderland – Year-round Christmas in Florida

In case you haven’t notice, it’s December and there are only 19 shopping days left before Christmas. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are gone. If you haven’t decorated yet, have found that most of your holiday lights don’t work or … Continue reading

Posted in Christmas, Florida, Shopping, Tampa Bay Treasures | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“I’d like to order the special, but please hold the side of children.”

 Banning ill-mannered children from restaurants This morning, my local newspaper, the Tampa Bay Times, published an article touting yet another restaurant announcing a ban on kids. Surprisingly, this time it’s a pizza place. Being ‘a picky traveler”, I totally identified with … Continue reading

Posted in Dining, Fine Dining, Travel Commentary | Tagged , | 1 Comment

Inns of Maine – Camden Harbour Inn

After an exhilarating afternoon of sailing on Penobscot Bay or a drive up US 1, this is the first sight that greets you as you pull up to the front of the inn you are spending the night at. Some … Continue reading

Posted in Camden, Dining, Fine Dining, Hotels, Inns/B & B's, Maine | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Discover the Headwaters Cafe – Not Your Usual Convention Center Food

The Headwaters Cafe in Saint Paul RiverCentre seems to be a well kept secret from out-of-town visitors. It’s located on the lobby level tucked down a side hallway as you walk the skywalk/tunnel system that connects the St. Paul Hotel, the Intercontinental, … Continue reading

Posted in Dining, St. Paul Minnesota | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Love Affair With Fall Foliage

 Love Fall Foliage? Is Autumn your favorite time of year? Sharing some photos to give a nice fall fix in case you weren’t able to make a leaf peeping trip this year or you are not blessed to live in … Continue reading

Posted in Acadia National Park, Maine, Photography | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment

Florida – It’s A Jungle Down Here

June was a sad month in Central Florida. To add to the sorrow of shootings at the Pulse night club in Orlando, a two year old was snatched by an alligator and drowned. Those of us who live in here  know … Continue reading

Posted in Florida, Orlando, Walt Disney World | Tagged , , | Leave a comment