Joe Banez Joe Banez

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park’s combination of striking natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, cultural heritage, and tranquil environment makes it a place of profound significance, offering visitors a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Whether seeking adventure, introspection, or simply a scenic escape, Joshua Tree provides a timeless sanctuary.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Spending Christmas with Sandra

This holiday season, I got a chance to spend time with Sandra. It is time to connect again after two years. As we get older, we prefer to stay in the comfort of our own homes rather than reaching out.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Grover Beach

Visiting Auntie Tacing during the holidays is a wonderful time to connect again. I haven’t visited since she moved to Arroyo Grande. I prefer visiting family members or friends alone because that gives me a chance to have a one-on-one connection.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Art Appreciation Day

It is just a must for me to get out and see what's out there. My best choice today is Paul Getty Museum. It' s my favorite place to hang out and appreciate art.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Montmartre at night

Montmartre at night is enchanting, mixing the energy of a bustling village with a reverence for its artistic heritage.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

The Streets of Montmartre

Though busy with tourists, Montmartre retains a village-like atmosphere in certain spots, with quieter, more secluded streets where you can feel the history and artistry of this iconic Parisian district.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Couchey to Dijon

Couchey is a charming village in the Côte-d'Or department in the Burgundy region of France, near Dijon. Known for its beautiful vineyards and scenic landscapes, Couchey lies within the Côte de Nuits, a famed wine-producing area. The village is especially celebrated for its Burgundy wines, including notable Pinot Noirs. Couchey’s landscape is dotted with traditional stone houses, wine cellars, and hillside vineyards, offering a rustic and picturesque atmosphere. It's also popular among hikers and cyclists for its trails, which provide lovely views of the region’s wine country.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Dijon

Dijon, located in the heart of the Burgundy region in France, is a city rich in history and deeply embedded in the country’s gastronomic culture. Its culinary significance can be traced back centuries, with several key elements contributing to its legacy.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Couchey

Couchey’s position within the Côte d'Or and close proximity to more famous wine villages adds to its charm and importance within Burgundy’s vast wine culture.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Beaune to Couchey

This stage gave us some sort of adventure like taking off the beaten path to Aloxe-Corton, Pernand-Vergelessses and then, passing through Reulle-Vergy that welcomed this year’s Tour de France, then, visiting Chevry-Charbertin, where we all met last year. Blessed to be here together and doing this bike tour together.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Couchey

The village has vineyards classified under the Marsannay appellation, which is unique in Burgundy for allowing red, white, and rosé wines under one designation. Marsannay wines are often described as fresh and approachable, making them a favorite among Burgundy enthusiasts.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Pernand Vergelesses

Pernand-Vergelesses is a small, historic wine-producing village in the Côte de Beaune region of Burgundy, known for its unique terroir and high-quality wines. Located on the slopes surrounding the famous Corton hill, Pernand-Vergelesses benefits from varied soils and exposures that allow it to produce both red and white wines, predominantly from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Aloxe Corton

Aloxe-Corton stands out in Burgundy for its dual expertise in both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grand crus, making it a prime destination for lovers of both red and white Burgundy wines.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Meuilley

Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and beautiful rolling hills, Meuilley is known for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic landscape, attracting wine lovers and those looking for a quiet escape.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Beaune

Beaune, a historic town in the heart of Burgundy, France, is celebrated as a center for exceptional wines, especially its renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Known as the wine capital of Burgundy, it hosts the annual Hospices de Beaunewine auction, one of the world’s most prestigious and oldest charity wine events, drawing enthusiasts and collectors from across the globe. Beaune’s vineyards, classified among the finest premier cru and grand cru appellations, produce wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir, where centuries-old viticultural practices meet meticulous craftsmanship. The town’s rich wine culture, picturesque vineyards, and historical cellars make it a pilgrimage site for wine lovers.

Read More
Joe Banez Joe Banez

Santenay

Before hitting the road, we went for an inspiration photos with Tour de France symbols.

Read More