Louise Masin Sattler

Top 7 Must-See Attractions in Dublin

Published on September 10, 2025September 14, 2025 by Louise Masin Sattler1 Comment

I was born on St. Patrick’s Day, which has instilled in me a deep sense of connection with the people of Ireland! That’s why, just last week, my husband and I made the most of our short visit to Ireland, particularly in the vibrant greater Dublin area.

Dublin may be small compared to the megacities of the United States, but it exudes charm and is remarkably ‘walkable’, contributing to an overall sense of safety. Whenever I reflect on our time in Dublin, I smile.

First, visitors may wish to know that flying into Dublin is a breeze. The airport is easy to negotiate, and we found our car service driver without any stress. Departures from the city to mainland Europe were also without any problems. But, you aren’t reading my Dublin Top 7 because I “heart” the airport. So let’s get to the “meat” of this blog…

I could easily have written a TOP 10 or even a TOP 20 list about Dublin. But 7 seemed kinda lucky, so I stuck with the TOP 7 THINGS TO DO in the city “by the sea!” Before you explore my list, you may want to visit Dublin’s information website. for more insights.

#1: Visit Trinity College to view the world-renowned Book of Kells and to visit their unique and stunningly beautiful Old Library.

#2: Ride the BIG BUS!

#3: Visit an Irish Pub where there is live music, and #4 Eat and drink the local fare!

#5: Take Pat Liddy’s Walking Tour

#6: Visit the Phoenix Park

#7: Watch the sunset from a bridge that goes over the Liffey River.

The details:

#1: Visit Trinity College to view the world-renowned Book of Kells and to visit their unique and stunningly beautiful Old Library.

The first thing Hubby and I did when we arrived in Dublin was visit Trinity College and view the Book of Kells. This is a medieval manuscript that has been preserved and viewed by thousands, if not millions of people. Anyone who loves symbolism and linguistics will find the Book of Kells very intriguing and fascinating! The Book of Kells is also housed in the great OLD LIBRARY. This library is undergoing renovation, but it has the most amazing history and displays, including my favorite, Gaia’s Illuminated Sculpture of Earth. The sculptures date back centuries, as do the books.

More information and tickets can be found here.

#2: Ride the BIG BUS!

The BIG BUS is an excellent way to traverse a new city! For Hubby and me, this was the perfect way to get a feel for Dublin in under two hours. We were treated to commentary from the drivers, who were also our tour guides. Tickets are easy to access, and in Dublin, there are multiple buses; so you never have to wait long to “hop on”! There is also an evening tour, but this bus does not have an option to “hop off”. Here are just some of the sights you will see when relaxing on the Big Bus!

I had an opportunity to ask some questions of the folks at BIG BUS TOURS. Naomi Bressan, social media manager, commented, “Our people from all BBT cities work hard to make sure that our customers have a seamless experience, from booking their tour to redeeming the tickets and enjoying the city from the bus. Our mission is to inspire the spirit of adventure in everyone who hops on one of our buses.”

Based on our Dublin experience, mission accomplished!

Grab your tickets here for Dublin (and other European cities).

#3: Visit an Irish Pub where there is live music

Dublin is alive with music! You only need to walk into any pub in the center city to hear local musicians play Irish tunes and a whole lot of John Denver! (Someone please explain to me why John Denver?) Where to go? Many recommend the area known as TEMPLE BAR, but with a caveat – go with a group as it can be a bit touristy, which means it is a fave for pickpockets!

#4: Eat and drink the local fare!

Fish and chips, Guinness stout, Jameson Whiskey, and fish chowder – need I say more? There is no shortage of places to enjoy the flavors of Dublin. We sampled many pubs, including Kathy Hands, Brannigans, and CHURCH (Note there is Irish dancing at CHURCH – but go early to get a good seat!).

#5: Take Pat Liddy’s Walking Tour

Thanks to our guide, Harry, our Pat Liddy’s Walking Tour of Dublin was superb! This is the tour for people who like to learn interesting historical information presented with humor and relatable stories! Our tour was over two hours long, but it felt much shorter because we were all so engrossed and entertained. And, this tour is chock full of unusual trivia versus the typical information shared during other tours.As a side note, Harry seemed to know more about American history than most US 8th graders!

Also, know there were breaks and opportunities to sit down along the route. And while most of it was easy walking, there were some stairs and cobblestone streets that could be challenging to some with ambulatory issues.

#6: Visit Phoenix Park

Dublin’s Phoenix Park is HUGE! Really – no joke – it is twice the size of New York City’s Central Park! Within the park, you will find a school, an old military fort, a zoo, a plethora of gardens, and so much more! We walked through the park for an hour and barely made a dent in all it offered! Did I mention it is BEAUTIFUL? Also, it is close to other notable attractions for those ambitious enough to keep walking around the city!

Access the map and more information here.

#7: Watch the sunset from a bridge that crosses over the Liffey River

And, if you are lucky, you may catch the swans as they hunker down for the night!

Is Dublin an accessible city?

Dublin is overall accessible. There were some areas where I thought the streets were filled with too many cobblestones or broken pavement for a person with mobility challenges to ambulate safely. I didn’t see anyone who was deaf or blind, but I did note that the city made great efforts for audible and visual cues to help people with sensory needs.

Our time in Dublin went by so quickly! But, don’t worry – we will be back in about 8 weeks as we finish our tour of Europe. Next up, Hello Barcelona!

Top Tips for Planning An International Vacation

Published on August 29, 2025September 14, 2025 by Louise Masin Sattler2 Comments

Hubby and I are enthusiastically, or perhaps foolishly, about to embark on 8+ weeks in Europe. We are going to at least six countries and 15+ cities over this time span. Literally, we are taking planes, trains, buses, ferries, and automobiles! To say the least, this could be a logistical nightmare. But, luckily, I married a super-organized engineer. He has created a spreadsheet that would rival any organizational chart created by anyone since the beginning of time. Conversely, I print every little confirmation form, map, and email received, organize them by category (e.g., transportation, accommodations, activities, etc.), and by date. I also color-code my documents. Yes, my ADHD is in overdrive. And since I am anal retentive, we will be bringing both the digital and printed versions of “all plans”.

Now, the title promised to give you my “tips” for traveling internatitionally. So, here are my TOP TIPS for all of you to commit to memory or delete- the choice is yours!

RESEARCH: Impromptu travel, where you spontaneously hop in the car and visit a place a few hours away for relaxation and rejuvenation, is a concept I wholeheartedly embrace. However, a multi-week vacation, especially one that spans multiple countries and experiences varying weather conditions, falls far short of the impromptu definition in my eyes. Such a journey demands meticulous planning and organization. So, do your homework! Research and select destinations that genuinely captivate your interest. Additionally, steer clear of popular tourist spots during their peak seasons to avoid overcrowding and high prices. Keep an eye out for any special events or festivals happening at your chosen destination, as they can significantly increase the cost and make reservations a challenging task.
WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCES ARE YOU SEEKING? Are you looking to explore the great outdoors or simply visit museums and cafes? Do your travel companions have the same travel schedule and itinerary? These are crucial discussions to have before investing a significant amount of money in your vacation.
TRACK PRICES: Start your organization by making sure you are tracking and comparing prices for transportation. Many times, people use GOOGLE PRICE TRACKER to see when airfare drops. This may mean that frequent travelers may wish to consider getting a credit card with generous point allotments, well in advance. We opted for the Capital One Venture X Card and put all of our daily expenses on the card. It adds up with cash and point options to help defray travel costs. While the annual fee is a bit pricey, it does give you great perks. – including a generous amount of points to put towards airfare, hotels, or a rental car. We paid for our first set of flights using these points.
DON’T DELAY GETTING YOUR AIRFARE: When you see a competitive airfare price – grab it!
USE RELIABLE TRAVEL SERVICES: Whether a travel agent or an online service, such as TRIPADVISOR. Remember to make sure it is a RELIABLE service!
RESERVE CAR SERVICES: Book transfers from the airport to the hotel ahead of time. Nothing is worse than jumping into a taxi only to realize the driver is going to take you the “long way” to the hotel. It is worse if you are traveling alone and/or don’t speak the same language. That is why, for both the sake of convenience and safety, I recommend using a car service. This may not be the cheapest option – but when you are in a place that is totally new to you, be wise. There are two companies that I have found to be reliable, not too pricey, and as far as I can tell, safe. They offer drivers who will meet you inside the airport and take your luggage. They also offer drivers who are also local guides. WELCOME PICKUPS is a company that we have repeatedly booked. They are throughout the world and offer a multitude of transportation services. (TripAdvisor reviews are a 4.7 out of 5 – not too shabby!) The second company is DAYTRIP.com. They are super reliable, and their drivers are amazingly knowledgeable. We used DAYTRIP throughout Portugal, but they are also a global company.
GET TICKETS TO ATTRACTIONS EARLY! Sadly, many people spend more money than they should or miss out when they are delinquent at obtaining tickets to popular tourist spots. For example, the SAGRADA FAMILIA is a very popular attraction in Barcelona. We obtained our tickets months in advance as they sell out months in advance. Like hotels, use a travel service to get tickets for attractions and earn potential perks.
PLAN to GO EARLY or GO LATE to SEE POPULAR ATTRACTIONS. We have secured the “first of the day” tickets and the “late night tours” so that we don’t have to bake in the hot sun or wait in long lines. Also, treat yourself to VIP tours and small groups or private tours.
RESERVE IN ADVANCE the BIG BUS TOURS as your first outing in a new city. This is an excellent way to learn about the history and a bit of cultural information about your destination. We will be hoping on and off a number of the BIG BUSES! So, expect to see some fun content from places like the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, the Acropolis in Athens, and the Colosseum of Rome! Check out the BIG BUS TOURS and how to make a reservation.
DO NOT BUY A TON OF SOUVENIERS: (Ask yourself what you will do with this “thing” when you get home?) But, do send yourself postcards as a nice memory for when you return home.
DO BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE: You are about to spend a ton of money on your dream vacation. Consider this a major investment – so protect your investment with insurance! There are a few different companies that offer a comprehensive policy. Currently, I am a fan of FAYE INSURANCE. They are the only ones we found that offered long-term travel insurance for more than a few months.
DOWNLOAD TRAVEL APPS– The use of APPS is essential when traveling abroad. From airlines to rail and subway system maps. Download museum tours and even Rick Steve’s travel digest, as well!
INTERNATIONAL CELL PHONE USE: Get an international phone, text, and data plan. Check with your carrier, buy a phone overseas, or consider using WHATSAPP or GOOGLE FI.

READY TO PLAN? SEE THE SAMPLE ITINERARY BELOW

More suggestions…

BACK UP YOUR PHOTOS – DAILY!: Be sure to have a way to keep your photos safe. Whether it is on an external flash drive or a service, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud.
KEEP A JOURNAL: Don’t expect to remember every person and experience you encountered during your trip. Write it down!
LIVE IN THE MOMENT: Not every moment is an Instagram opportunity. Put down the phone/camera and just enjoy the sights, the conversations, the artwork, the music, etc.
INFORM YOUR CREDIT CARD COMPANIES of YOUR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL PLANS
CHECK OUT MORE TRAVEL PREPARATION and PACKING TIPS HERE
CREATE A LASTING MEMORY OF YOUR TRIP WITH A PHOTO .BOOK
DON’T FORGET TO STEP!

DOWNLOAD THE 7-DAY PLANNER Download

Do you have a travel tip to share? Go ahead and comment below!

*I have been enlisted as an ambassador for the BIG BUS TOURS. I will be reporting authentic content – all opinions are my own.

Essential Packing Tips for Long Trips

Published on August 22, 2025August 29, 2025 by Louise Masin Sattler3 Comments

I am an obsessive packer. When it comes to prepping for a trip ( more than a weekend in length), I will pack days or even weeks in advance. Then I will unpack, pack again, unpack, pack again – you get the drill.

Hubby and I are about to embark on months away from home. I thought I would share my “must-haves” for packing! Keep in mind – I am bound to change this list one more time before heading out the door.

There is a bit of a challenge… we are starting in a northern country that can be chilly all year and making our way to warm countries with their perimeters on the edge of the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. So, how do I pack in one suitcase, actually half a suitcase for all?!

First, I organize two key pieces of luggage. My carry-on luggage/ backpack is my “hub” stocked full of my MUST-HAVES! These are the items that would cause me great stress if I didn’t have them in every place we visit.

Included are these ESSENTIALS:

MY PHONE and CHARGER: My phone is my lifeline when I travel. It holds much of the information listed below and is obviously used for communication. It is also my tech of choice for photography and videography. Compact. Simple. Impactful. When traveling abroad, I plan on using GOOGLE FI on a second phone as some of the USA phone plans can be pricey. GOOGLE FI is new to me, so I will let you know how that works! The app- WhatsApp is also a good choice. The important “take-away” – make sure you are connected to loved ones.

DOCUMENTATION: Passport, Global Entry Card, Vaccination Card for Covid, Medical Insurance Card, International Driver’s License, a written list of important phone numbers, emails, and addresses (including for the local embassy, and any visas.

MEDICATIONS/ PRESCRIPTIONS: Prescription and over-the-counter (e.g., Advil, Imodium, etc.). IMPORTANT: If you are traveling out of the United States, check the country’s medication prescriptions. For example, SUDAFED is not allowed in Japan. Other countries ban ADDERALL.

I’m adding a link from the CDC with EXCELLENT information about traveling with medical needs. It includes restrictions on permitted medications and guidance on obtaining healthcare in various countries. Please take the warnings listed seriously, as violators could be fined or arrested.

HYGIENE/ HEALTH SAFETY PRODUCTS: Let’s start with my three essentials: a mask, disinfectant wipes, and hand sanitizer. Next, don’t forget what you will need when you arrive at your destination: your toothpaste, toothbrush, hair products, nail clipper, and the “personal stuff”- you know what I mean.

TRAVEL PLANS: I do not depend on my electronic devices. I always bring a backup of printed vacation details. This includes reservations for hotels, transportation, and excursions. I print my plane, train, and cruise/ferry tickets, as well.

SIDENOTE… before you travel abroad be sure to register for the STEP program. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency.

CLOTHING: I bring a minimum of two days change of clothes. If nothing else- undies!!

ELECTRONIC DEVICES (Computer, tablet, e-reader, chargers, etc.): I do not leave any electronic devices in my checked luggage. And, while I like to believe in the honesty of people who help get us from place to place, there can be a few dishonest folks along the way.

PHOTOS: One of my family and one of my passport (photo and back pages) in my purse or carry-on. While I love seeing the picture of my family members, it is also good for an emergency in case we are separated during the trip.

SNACKS and a WATER BOTTLE: After I clear security, I always purchase a water or fill my water bottle. And I make sure to have a healthy snack (or two) with me. If you have ever been stuck on a plane, you will understand how important these two items truly are! Note: Do not buy a snack with peanuts or peanut butter. Many airlines have asked passengers to be considerate of peanut allergies on the same flight.

KIDS STUFF… from high-tech diaper bags to favorite comfort items.

NEXT… CHECKED BAGGAGE

To be honest, packing my checked luggage is easier than my carry-on. I pack four of everything except for undies. I stuff those by the dozen throughout any open space in my luggage. Four pairs of pants, socks, sweaters/jackets, tops (four long, four short-sleeved), and four dresses. Add a swimsuit (always!), four pairs of shoes (including water shoes for rocky shores), a rain jacket, a vest, an Under Armour shirt, two scarves, and gloves! I carry on the plane my heavier coat to save space and to use if the plane gets cold. And don’t forget the AirTag!

To help you organize your trip, I have added some travel tips, a downloadable packing list (see below), and some of my favorite travel products. Did I miss something? Do you have a favorite I didn’t list? Go ahead and add them in the comments!

TRAVEL PACKING LIST

Download the packing list below by clicking here.

TRAVEL TIPS

CREATE AN ITINERARY
SHARE YOUR ITINERARY with EMERGENCY CONTACTS
DO YOU NEED A VISA? CHECK ONLINE
DO YOU NEED AN INTERNATIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE?
GET DOCTORS FORMS for PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS?
CONSIDER PURCHASING TRAVEL INSURANCE
SWAP an OUTFIT. Put one days clothes in your travel buddy's luggage and vice versa

MUST HAVES! (These are all linked to Amazon)

If you are inclined, please visit my AMAZON FAVORITE FINDS STORE for MORE INSPIRATION and SUGGESTIONS!. A portion of the proceeds is donated to children’s charitable organizations. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INSPIRATION

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The Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star – the BEST way to see the 49th State!

Published on August 14, 2025September 14, 2025 by Louise Masin SattlerLeave a comment

What is it like to traverse the middle of Alaska by train? After months of research and preparation, hubby, friends, and I hopped on the Alaska Railroad’s flagship train- the Denali Star – to discover the interior of the last frontier- the 49th State- Alaska! And it was splendid!

A little background: I’ve been captivated by the idea of riding a dome rail car for quite some time. In fact, travel by train has piqued my interest for years! That is why I gravitated to the Alaska Railroad booth at the 2025 LA TRAVEL and ADVENTURE SHOW. I was so impressed with the presentation that I immediately reached out to their corporate office to see if I could become a media ambassador. I truly wanted to experience the Alaska Railroad, not only as a mature adult who likes to travel “gently”, but on behalf of the families I know who are seeking vacation options that could accommodate their children with special needs. Within a few days, I received an official invitation. Now to prepare for the trip – and pack!

Preparing for the Alaska Railroad Experience

The best way to prepare for your trip aboard the Alaska Railroad is to start at the website. Here you will find all the routes, the time schedules, and ticket fare prices. Also, you will have an opportunity to contact the rail company of any special considerations, such as if someone is in need of assistance to board the train.

Know that the Alaska Railroad is not “sunshine and warm months” only! You can even ride the Aurora Winter train to view the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights)! The number of seats is limited for these cold-weather excursions, so be sure to book well in advance!

History buffs may want to check out the fun facts here.

And, if you are a frequent reader of this blog, then you know I am “all about safety”- so check this out:

Alaska Railroad Safety information

DAY 1: ANCHORAGE to DENALI

The Denali Star from Anchorage to Fairbanks depots is 356 miles and takes 11 hours and 40 minutes (plus stops). Hubby and I opted to break up the trip into two segments. Day 1, we rode the train from Anchorage to Denali on the GoldStar service car. We were joined by friends from North Carolina who extended their stay in Denali, but made the ride even more special!

Our trip started at the Alaska Railroad’s hub in Anchorage. This is a beautiful old depot and proved to be the perfect backdrop for setting the tone of the trip. Our first stop – the ticket office. To receive your tickets, we needed to show our government-issued ID (Driver’s License or Passport) and received the tickets with a helpful booklet. We were also given some brief instructions on how to drop off any luggage and the shuttle service that would be awaiting us at the Denali Depot, our first overnight stop. GoldStar passengers also received a cute pin. A nice souvenir!

I was happy we arrived with enough time to grab a quick cup of coffee at the depot and take a look in their gift shop. Yes, I made a purchase before the clock struck 8 a.m.! A cute Denali Star t-shirt and a book for our new grandbaby!

Next, we listened for boarding announcements. All in all, the process was orderly. However, hubby has a hearing loss, and understanding the directions was a bit problematic given the background noise within the depot. We managed, but if you are Deaf / Hard of hearing, you may want to stand close to the doors where there may be signage to help guide you.

Upon entering the train, we quickly found our seats. There was a tray table and an area to hold my electronics and books. Huge windows and a dome window made every angle of the railcar like watching a movie! Shortly after we lleft the station the GoldStar passengers were divided into two groups. This was due to two seatings for the meals. Our day included being served both breakfast and lunch – and it was fancy with real linens and china! The menu was limited, but there was enough variety to please all in our party. I tried the reindeer sausage – and I liked it!

Once we settled back in our seats, we were treated to the ever-changing vistas! Spruce, birch, and many other varieties of trees adorn the landscape, juxtaposed with mountains, streams, and rock formations. I toggled between our seats and the viewing car at the back of our train car. This was an outdoor section that let us feel as if we were immersed in nature! We were told to be on the lookout for any wildlife- including eagles, moose, caribou, and bears! Passengers were encouraged to “shout out” if they spotted anything extraordinary – like a moose! During our trip, we spotted some birds (eagles) and some smaller animals. Sadly, the moose and bears were either too far away or hiding!

Throughout the eight hours, the docents demonstrated their knowledge and entertained us with facts, figures, trivia, and even a bit of folklore!

What makes this trip extra special is that the Denali Star is renowned for its breathtaking journey through the majestic Talkeetna Mountains, traversing alongside and over picturesque waterways like the Indian River, Chulitna River, and the Nenana River. As you embark on this scenic ride, keep an eye out for the iconic “Denali“, the name derived from the Tanana Indian word for “HIGH ONE” or “GREAT ONE.” On very clear days, you can catch a glimpse of this majestic mountain starting at rail mile marker 233. From vantage points, you’ll be able to admire the highest peak in North America, standing tall on the south side of the national forest. (It’s worth noting that the Denali National Park spans an expansive area of 6 million acres, surpassing even the state of Massachusetts in size!) Weather conditions play a significant role in determining whether this magnificent mountain is visible.

After 8+ hours, we arrived at the Denali Train Depot. There we were met by a driver for the Princess Wilderness Lodge who took our luggage and made sure we were easily transferred from point A to point B. It is remarkable how seamlessly the railroad and hospitality companies work in perfect tandem. Truly – a well “oiled” machine!

For information about Denali hotels and tours, go here.

DAY 2: DENALI to FAIRBANKS

The second day aboard the Denali Star was equally as thrilling as the first. There were times that the scenery and the mechanics of the train took my breath away! Passing by small towns that are sustained by coal mines and others that have less than 30 people was so fascinating to this gal from Los Angeles!

I also had an opportunity to ride in the closed dome of the Adventure Class Car, which proved to be very exciting! I almost felt like I was the conductor!

The Crew is the Heart of the Denali Star

Sara H. is a longtime employee of the Alaska Railroad and a mom to a teenager, “J”, who happens to be on the Autism Spectrum. I had an opportunity to interview Sara about her work with the railroad. She also provided insight about how the Alaska Railroad accommodates passengers and employees with children with special needs. And I think she may be the coolest mom!

A FEW TIPS for ALASKA RAILROAD TRAVELERS

I hope I have piqued your interest in the Alaska Railroad. Let me conclude with some details about the GoldStar and Adventure Class options, dining information, and how to connect with the Alaska Railroad. And, of course, photos for your enjoyment!

ALASKA RAILROAD WEBSITE

EXCURSIONS and EVENTS in DENALI:

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

Alaska Railroad Reservations & Information:
800.544.0552
reservations@akrr.com

Customer Service:
907.265.2494

TDD/Hearing Impaired:
907.265.2620

GOLDSTAR vs. ADVENTURE Options (Both exceptional choices!)

GOLDSTAR SERVICE

FEATURES: • Glass-dome ceilings • Upper-level outdoor viewing platforms • Inclusive dining at the lower-level full-service dining car • Private bar and two complimentary adult beverages • Comfortable forward-facing seats • Alaskan tour guide providing narration • Fully accessible ** Only available on the Coastal Classic and Denali Star trains. ** The cost is more expensive than the Adventure Class - but for travelers looking for a premium rail experience this is worth it!
ADVENTURE CLASS

FEATURES: • Confirmed seat with large picture windows • Onboard dining and bar service available for purchase in the Wilderness Café* • Freedom to explore between Adventure Class cars • Access to open seating in Vista Dome car (summer only; excludes Glacier Discovery Train) *Excellent choice for families as there are tables available for board games and meal time *No dining or bar service on the Hurricane Turn Train.

DINING OPTIONS ABOARD THE DENALI STAR

GOLDSTAR SAMPLE ITEMS and MENU

The ADVENTURE CLASS CAFE CAR

Disclaimer:

Louise Sattler was an invited as a media ambassador guest for this trip on the Denali Star. As a media content creator, this article expresses authentic content. The opinions are those of Louise Sattler and her interviewees. All Rights Reserved. 2025

Thank you, Jackie Z.

Published on November 25, 2023November 25, 2023 by Louise Masin SattlerLeave a comment

Jackie Zeman was a shining light. You couldn’t help but notice her when she came into a room. Sadly, the world gained her as an angel this past week. And, I am so thankful that our paths crossed.

I first learned about Jacklyn Zeman when she appeared in General Hospital (GH) as the popular character, Bobbie Spencer. This show was my “guilty pleasure” – faithfully watching it throughout high school and college. I loved her as “Bobbie”. She was feisty, fun, and a “ginger” – and you know- “gingers unite”!

As my life became too busy to watch “the soaps”, I would try to stay abreast of GH news by reading online stories or skimming the Soap Digest I bought at the local grocery store. But, then a funny twist of fate happened just a few years ago- I walked into a friend’s private event and literally found myself seated next to Jackie. We immediately hit it off! We talked about a variety of topics, including fashion and the reason we were there- to celebrate our friend Margaret McSweeney of Kitchen Chat TV and the recipient of special recognition at the March 2020 Taste Awards. And of course, there was a fair amount of chatting and showing of photos throughout the night of her family – she was a very proud grandmother.

I recall this event vividly as it was the last one I attended before the Covid pandemic put a lock on all of our lives. Jackie was one of the last people I saw before we were all “housebound.”

After the pandemic restrictions lifted, Jackie and I met up again – this time at the pre-event party for the 2022 Indie Series Awards. She had been starring in THE BAY – a show produced by Kira Reed Lorsch – a friend we both had in common. I was definitely the outsider – but was so honored and thankful that Jackie and Kira made me feel so comfortable at the party and introduced me to many others there. The night was full of laughter and a very messy pizza. In fact, the pizza became a bit of a running joke.

Sadly, in all the time we were together I never stopped to snap a “selfie” of us together. But, a few candids did make my camera roll. I love this one of Jackie who was simply engaged in great conversation with friends.

Life is made up of little moments. Snapshots in time. And if you are lucky- it will be filled with people who are clever, full of humor, and make you feel that you matter. Jackie was that person.

Jackie, I didn’t know you well – but I am so happy that our paths crossed and we shared some memorable moments. You were fun, funny, and kind. And you will be missed by many.

Discover Lake Louise, Canada

Published on June 8, 2023September 14, 2025 by Louise Masin Sattler1 Comment

There are few places on this earth that leave me speechless. Lake Louise is one of them. The water is my favorite color- teal blue. On the day we arrived, the sky was overcast and then turned to a brilliant blue – with hardly any clouds. There is a walk from the parking lot and Fairmont Hotel around the lake to a “beach” and then a bit further to an area called the “Tea House”. Most of the terrain is smooth and paved, however, the further you walk the more likely you will encounter some bumps along the road- literally.

A Canada Park Pass is required to visit, as is either a bus fare or a parking fee for your car. There are ample bathrooms at the lake and a few miles from this area awaits cafes and shops for tourists to visit.

The only sour note I have to share is being declined from dining at the Fairmont’s breakfast establishment (the sitdown restaurant vs. the quick grab-and-go cafe.)

The restaurant at the Fairmont at Lake Louise is apparently for guests only unless you hit it at a lull. We tried to have breakfast at the restaurant and were told to come back several hours later. I still am confused why we were turned away from having a quick breakfast at 7:15 a.m. from an empty restaurant. It had always been a dream of mine to eat at sunrise on the shores of Lake Louise. Well, I guess not every dream comes true!

So the lesson is to pack a meal and drinks and enjoy a picnic at one of the most loveliest places to dine – on the banks of Lake Louise!

For those of you who are yearning for a bit more outdoorsy activities – there is a gondola and other activities and attractions near Lake Louise. Also, there are other area lakes that are stunning in beauty and worth a visit. Sadly, these many were “off-season” and closed when we visited.

To learn more about Lake Louise and the Banff, Alberta area please visit this website.

Enjoy the photos- but please don’t “snatch them”.

Discovering Banff, Canada

Published on June 4, 2023May 19, 2025 by Louise Masin SattlerLeave a comment

This past week hubby and I arrived in Banff, Canada to take in the area sights. I had always wanted to visit the Canadian Rockies, including Banff and my namesake body of water- LAKE LOUISE! This blog will focus on the attractions and parks within Banff – including the Sulphur Summit, the Cave and Basin, the downtown region, and the Bow River waterfalls and trails.

Before you venture out – check out the Park Pass requirements for Banff and all parks within Canada.

Downtown Banff

Downtown Banff has a feel to it similar to Lake Placid, New York or Park City, Utah. It is a small town that caters to the needs of tourists. From their very efficient transportation system (ROAM) to the helpful visitor center. Museums, parks, stores, and lots of restaurants help to create Banff’s amazing vibe. Plus, it is bordered by magnificent mountain ranges. However, the true “secret” to Banff is its wonderfully kind and generous residents.

Below I listed my favorite places that we visited in Banff. While they are in no particular order – I will say that the gondola ride was indeed a huge highlight of our trip!

Bow River Falls

The Bow River Falls can be easily accessed from the downtown main street – Banff Avenue. There are also entrances near some of the hotels on the perimeter of the park. It is a lovely place for a walk and to get acclimated to the elevation of Banff before venturing to even higher elevations – such as at the Sulphur Summit. This attraction is FREE! A little preview video I created is below.

Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola and Hot Springs

The Banff Sulphur Mountain is home to a spectacular gondola, viewing platform, small educational center, theater, and restaurants. Nextdoor you will find the Sulphur Mountain Hot Springs. Both are worth taking the ROAM #1 bus to visit and spend quality time relaxing, learning about the Banff National Park, and enjoying the vistas!

Link to learn more and obtain tickets

The Hot Springs was a ton of fun and thankfully not much of that “rotten eggy smell” – common among natural springs. Phew! Instead we found a very pleasant place to relax and meet people from all over the globe! The hot springs has bathing suits and towels for rent along with lockers and showers.

A few things to know about this area: 1) When you go to the Hot Springs bring sandals as it is a communal locker room and is a bit slippery 2) The ticket to the Hot Springs has an add-on option that is worth the few extra dollars – entry to the Cave and Basin (across town). 3) When riding the gondola know that it is steep and if you are afraid of heights you may wish to reconsider. However, I felt totally safe and never scared. It was an exhilarating ride up and down the mountain. If you wish to take the Sulphur Mountain trails know that bear spray is required and for obvious reasons- bears are the owners of the mountain and people are simply guests!

Once atop the summit, you will find paths to go even higher! But, these paths require walking up and down wooden steps and on ground that can be uneven. Thus, not conducive for a person with special mobility needs – such as a wheelchair.

Note: We did not eat at any of the restaurants at the summit. But, people do say that the Sky Bistro is extra special and the buffet at the Northern Lights offers a wide selection of food.

Banff Cave and Basin

The Cave and Basin truly was the biggest surprise of our trip. I was expecting a rather drippy, dark, and damp cave. It was not at all! And we went on a rainy day! Instead, we found a super accessible and inclusive attraction that was very interesting and great for all ages! I want to give a shoutout to the gift shop buyer- the items at their store were very unique and reasonably priced!

To get to the cave take the ROAM #4 bus from the Banff downtown main hub.

Recommendations & Tips

Banff restaurants represent cuisine from around the world. While we sampled many of the local establishments – one made our “we would come back” list!

BALKAN GREEK RESTAURANT

This eatery is fabulous! And, I must not be the only person who thinks so – because there was a long wait if you didn’t have a reservation. Hubby and I circumvented the line by eating at the bar. Here we met bartender, Derek G. He is a prime example of the nice, kind, and helpful Banff residents! I saw many traditional Greek dishes being served and each looked AMAZING. We opted for the Greek Bowl. It was exceptional and if I had more time in Banff, I would have returned – again and again!

Check out the local Rundle United Thrift Shop!

This place was filled with great finds. I scored three wool scarves (new!) for only $5 each. Books, home goods, and much more filled this store located at the end of Banff Avenue (and close to the trail for the Bow Water Falls).

I feel compelled to give a few random travel tips.

The busy season starts in late May/ early June. Plan accordingly as there are only so many buses and hotels in this area.
Check out Lake Louise and other main attractions EARLY in the day – before the hordes of people arrive. We arrived by 7 am and it was very busy by 11 am.
Bring Canadian money if traveling from outside of Canada. There were some places that did not take credit cards or non-Canadian money.
Dress in layers. The weather seemed to change every hour! The morning in late May was quite chilly only to be 40 degrees warmer by lunchtime! Rain was on and off throughout our week in the Alberta province.
If you are flying WESTJET know that the international terminal for this airline is not the same as the national gates. We spent an hour online to check in bags only to find out we were at the wrong part of the airport. A 15-minute walk got us to the right place – but all could have been avoided if there was better signage from the rental car return building.
Visit other places en route to Banff- such as Canmore ( a charming town about 20 minutes away) and of course, Calgary. In this city, you will find the home of the 1988 Olympics. Also, the Calgary Stampede happens every summer in this little city- so plan your trip with care if you don’t want to be in the thick of huge crowds!

The BEST birthday present doesn’t come in a box – see what it is!

Published on March 19, 2023 by Louise Masin SattlerLeave a comment

I don’t know about you – but after 60+ years on this planet, I don’t need any more stuff! So, instead of receiving birthday gifts I flip the scenario and ask for people to donate to a charitable cause in lieu of gifts or cards. It has been my birthday tradition to “give and not receive” for at least ten years or more. Typically, I pick out a worthy charity and request donations to be sent to this worthy organization. But, this year was different as I decided to offer a different approach- one where my friends and family can pick a charity of their choice and then add the information on my Facebook wall so others can support it, too. The results were astonishing! People donated time, money, and much more to so many different charities worldwide.

Want to participate? It is never too late! Simply add in the comment section a worthy (and legitimate) charity. This blog is often shared, so it is my hope that we can sprinkle our generosity throughout the globe!

Here are just some of the fantastic organizations that friends and family supported (in no certain order):

DANA FARBER FOUNDATION – (Boston area)

NEW LIFE FURNITURE BANK (Walpole, Mass.)

MANOR HILLS ELDER HOME (Wellsville, New York)

DAVID A. HOWE LIBRARY (Wellsville, New York)

SPCA

DEMENTIA SOCIETY

Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Society

MAZON- hunger relief

RVC Education Fund – helping teachers to support their students

STANFORD MASIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – (Donations to be sent to the Wellsville Central Schools – New York- State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895)

Several went through their closets to donate clothing and home goods to local organizations, including Goodwill and Habitat for Humanity

As for me, I sprinkled my “love” with many of the charities listed above. I also refinished several pieces of furniture and gave them away to families and individuals in need. People often ask about the designs. They are transfers embedded in the wood. The ones used below are from Maika Daughters.

Here is a peek at some of what was donated.

The Lady Pacific – Calming Photos

Published on February 5, 2023 by Louise Masin Sattler1 Comment

Nearly 11 years ago Hubby and I packed up our lives and moved across the United States from Maryland to California. While others may have thought this was a very arduous assignment – I gladly grabbed the opportunity to trade the “burbs” for a chance to live in a community that borders the Pacific Ocean. (And for the record, we don’t miss the snow, leaf raking, or buggy summer nights with heavy thick air due to the humidity and hot temperatures!)

Since becoming a “left coaster” – I have been snapping more than my share of photos. Today, I chose to post a few recent photos of “The Lady Pacific” (as I like to call her). And, if you keep scrolling you will even find a video. I hope they bring you thoughts of calm and peace.

Enjoy!

p.s.

All of these are my personal photos- so please respect my creative work and don’t “hijack” them. Thank you.