Dorothy Burke

How did you get interested in travel?

As a 19-year-old student I went with a college group to study in then-Yugoslavia, then under Tito’s rule. It was the first time I’d left the good old USA, and it made an impression. I then visited Italy, Spain and Morocco, and have traveled ever since.

Favorite city or country? why?

Unites States of America – Perhaps one has to travel out of the US to realize what a wonderful country America is.

Best or most interesting travel experience

Kissing the Blarney Stone in Ireland. NOT an easy task!

Ever met anyone famous?

I met James McArthur, “Book ‘em, Danno!” from the original Hawaii 5-O. I got to hold his mother’s (Helen Hayes’) Oscar. Was it heavy!

Likes: Creativity, breathtaking scenery, learning new things

Loathes: Lying, rudeness, condescension

Favorite food: Prime rib – medium rare, please

Favorite restaurant: La Forêt in Almaden. It was my father’s favorite restaurant, and it reopened again this fall. I’m saving my money to go enjoy it again.

Something interesting that people might not guess about you

I like to fish for trout in the early morning. You cannot multi-task. You just sit quietly in the boat and embrace the quiet and take in the serene mountain and lake scenery.

A place that you could visit over and over again and not get bored? why?

The most unforgettable view you’ve ever seen

Looking across Hong Kong Harbor, from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island at night. I had to pinch myself to make sure it was real.

A place you’ve never visited but really hope to get to – East Africa