Peter is broadcasting his radio show this weekend from St. Petersburg, Russia (formerly Leningrad), a place of elusive mystery and epic history, soaring architecture and sumptuous art, fabulous castles and fine cuisine.

With 45 islands, 300 bridges, 50 palaces, 200 museums, and white nights in summer, this magical city has an energy that was unleashed 20 years ago and just keeps growing.

We wanted to learn where locals hang out in this fascinating metropolis when they’re not working, so we asked around.

One of the things that make larger resorts appealing for families is well-managed and comprehensive kids’ clubs and activities.

With her 6-year-old son in tow, Amie O’Shaughnessy can’t imagine going to a resort for a week without one—having a fun place that is just for him is key to giving us the chance to have some adult downtime.

Kids’ programs vary widely and the challenge is not finding resorts that have them, but rather identifying the elements that work for you and your family.

America’s birthday is just around the corner.

And what better way to celebrate than by honoring everyday Americans who volunteer to risk their lives, for no pay, to protect their communities?

My latest article, available this weekend in PARADE magazine, focuses on something uniquely American — volunteer firefighters.

Thailand is not called the Land of Smiles for nothing.

The country’s history, varied architecture, flavorful food, and great shopping experiences are a draw, but it’s the locals who make a lasting impression.

Kind, helpful and welcoming, with Buddhist values of compassion, care and humility are ingrained in the national personality, which translates into a hospitality industry known for outstanding service.

In the wake of the tragic crash of Yemenia Airlines Flight 626 near the Comoros Islands, it has been revealed that French safety inspectors had serious doubts about the Airbus A310 craft and had banned it from entering the country in 2007.

Though the airline had not been placed on the European Union’s safety-related blacklist of air carriers forbidden to enter the EU, the French had banned that particular Yemenia plane from entering France.

A day after a Yemenia Airlines jet crashed into the Indian Ocean near the Comoros Islands, authorities are getting a clearer picture of exactly how many survivors have been found, and the status of the search for the plane’s flight data recorders.

In the aftermath of Tuesday’s tragic crash, chaos and confusion seemed to reign as conflicting reports were issued about both the number of survivors and the location of the black boxes.