Without Reservations is about a woman's dream come true – taking a year off to travel the world and rediscover what it is like to be an independent woman, without ties and without reservations. 'In many ways, I was an independent woman,' writes Alice Steinbach, single working mother and Pulitzer prize-winning journalist. 'For years I'd made my own choices, paid my own bills, shovelled my own snow, and had relationships that allowed for a lot of freedom on both sides.' Slowly, however, she saw that she had become quite dependent in another way. 'I had fallen into the habit – of defining myself in terms of who I was to other people and what they expected of me.' Who am I, she wanted to know, away from the things that define me - my family, children, job, friends? Steinbach searches for the answer in some of the most exciting places in the world: Paris, where she finds a soulmate in a Japanese man; Oxford, where she learns more from a ballroom dancing lesson than any of her studies; Milan, where she befriends a young woman about to be married. Beautifully illustrated with postcards Steinbach wrote home to herself, Without Reservations is an unforgettable voyage of discovery.

Jean and Michael Gerber did what most of us only dream of doing. They sold their house, quit their jobs, and started an incredible and unforeseen journey. In Traveling without Reservations, Jean shares the story of traveling the world with her husband. For two years, using the Greek Isles as a base, the couple crisscrossed Europe and the Middle East, learning as much about themselves as the exotic destinations they explored. In vivid journal entries, Jean chronicles their travels to countries including Turkey, Switzerland, Italy, and Israel, recording the astonishing sights and rituals, the variety of sanitation arrangements, the hikes and camping, the burros and camels and sheep, and the quirks of their semi-trusty Subaru minibus. Traveling without Reservations gives a playful account of the unexpected twists and turns life takes when traveling without fixed plansadapting to new languages, cultures, and customs; embracing the energy of an eclectic mix of people; enjoying a myriad of culinary delights; and learning to give up control. An enchanting read, fueled not only by Jean Gerbers irrepressible and irreverent humor, but also by her extraordinary ability to connect with and celebrate the many faces of human nature. Her account of her travels through Europe and the Middle East is earthy, joyful, sometimes poignant, and always hilarious. I loved it!Franny Billingsley, National Book Award Finalist Its an adventure from beginning to endfull of color and life. I couldnt put it down.Mittie Babette Roger, author of Aurora

A budget-conscious traveler who toured the world for eight years offers tips for saving thousands of dollars on the road, featuring advice on such topics as avoiding currency conversion fees and acquiring free frequent flyer points.

The host of the Travel Channel series "No Reservations" provides a behind-the-scenes account of his global culinary adventures, from New Jersey to New Zealand, offering commentary on food in every corner of the globe.

Global business leader and hotel industry icon J W Bill Marriott, Jr shares both the story of and the recipe for the success of Marriott International, one of the worlds leading hotel companies. The company began with one family-run root beer stand and grew over eight decades, through his leadership, into a global corporation that is widely respected for the business it does and the way it does business. In 1964, on the eve of being named president of the company, Marriotts father, founder and then-CEO J Willard Marriott, Sr, tucked a letter in his 32-year-old sons desk drawer. The letter contained insights and guideposts that proved invaluable as Bill Jr, blazed the trail not only for his company, but for the hospitality industry as well. The letter, printed in this book, provides timeless advice for any person in any business who aims to achieve success. This is a compilation of engaging stories that takes the reader behind the scenes as events and decisions unfold.

Paris Dear Alice, Each morning I am awakened by the sound of a tinkling bell. A cheerful sound, it reminds me of the bells that shopkeepers attach to their doors at Christmastime. In this case, the bell marks the opening of the hotel door. From my room, which is just off the winding staircase, I can hear it clearly. It reminds me of the bell that calls to worship the novice embarking on a new life. In a way I too am a novice, leaving, temporarily, one life for another. Love, Alice In the tradition of Anne Morrow Lindbergh's Gift from the Sea and Frances Mayes's Under the Tuscan Sun, in Without Reservations we take time off with Pulitzer Prize winner Alice Steinbach as she explores the world and rediscovers what it means to be a woman on her own. "In many ways, I was an independent woman," writes Alice Steinbach, a single working mother, in this captivating book. "For years I'd made my own choices, paid my own bills, shoveled my own snow, and had relationships that allowed for a lot of freedom on both sides." Slowly, however, she saw that she had become quite dependent in another way: "I had fallen into the habit . . . of defining myself in terms of who I was to other people and what they expected of me." Who am I, she wanted to know, away from the things that define me--my family, children, job, friends? Steinbach searches for the answer to this provocative question in some of the most exciting places in the world: Paris, where she finds a soul mate in a Japanese man; Oxford, where she takes a course on the English village; Milan, where she befriends a young woman about to be married. Beautifully illustrated with postcards Steinbach wrote home to herself to preserve her spontaneous impressions, this revealing and witty book will transport readers instantly into a fascinating inner and outer journey, an unforgettable voyage of discovery.

Whether you're zip-lining through cloud forests, relaxing on a wellness retreat, or swimming with manta rays, discover the real pura vida with Moon Costa Rica. Inside you'll find: Flexible, strategic itineraries designed for backpackers, beach-lovers, adventure travelers, honeymooners, and more, including the best beaches for swimming, sunsets, and seclusion The best spots for eco-friendly outdoor adventures like kayaking, hiking, and scuba-diving: Swim under a waterfall, raft over rapids, explore mysterious caves, and cliff-dive into river pools. Hike to the summit of Mount Chirripó, the highest point in Costa Rica, snorkel with sea turtles in warm turquoise water, or soak in a volcanic mineral pool Unique and authentic experiences: Admire the forest floor from the middle of a hanging bridge, or take an aerial tram to lake, volcano, and ocean views. Relax on a pristine beach and watch the sunrise with a cup of flavorful local coffee. Fill up on fried plantains at a traditional soda, and shop at a neighborhood mercado Insight from Cartago local Nikki Solano on how to experience Costa Rica like an insider, support local and sustainable businesses, avoid crowds, and respectfully engage with the culture Full-color photos and detailed maps throughout Background information on Costa Rica's landscape, history, and cultural customs, as well as volunteer opportunities Handy tools including a Spanish phrasebook, packing suggestions, and travel tips for disability access, solo travelers, seniors, and LGBTQ travelers With Moon's practical tips and local know-how, you can experience Costa Rica your way. Exploring more of Central America? Check out Moon Belize.