Dinah Eng's blog

An estimated four to six million Americans live abroad. This is one in a series of interviews with American expats, who offer a unique perspective on the world, and a look at life outside the United States that guide books could never capture.

Kristine Jiménez’s connection to Costa Rica started with a love story.

Super heroes are every child’s favorite role model. (Sorry, Mom and Dad.)

One of the most endearing -- and enduring -- super heroes is now flying high on Disney XD’s new animated series “Ultimate Spider-Man” from Marvel Animation.

Wenguang Huang was 10 when he started sleeping next to a coffin. The coffin, built at his grandmother’s request, would not be used by her for another 15 years, but its symbolic reminder of death and traditional Chinese customs is at the heart of a story that examines how belief shapes who we are and who we want to be.

The plight of homeless veterans is not an easy story to tell, but a thoughtful Hallmark Movie Channel film inspired by true events explores what happens when a veteran of the war in Iraq -- traumatized by both PTSD and a disabling injury -- finds the strength to go on with the companionship of a faithful Border Collie named Duke.

Choosing a treatment at The Spa at Paradise Point in San Diego is like taking a mini-vacation on the island of your choice.

My sister Linda and I, who love getting massages, recently stayed at the luxurious Paradise Point resort on Mission Bay, and decided to spend an afternoon relaxing at The Spa. As we perused the spa’s offerings, it was hard to decide what to try.

Drive onto the grounds of Paradise Point Resort & Spa in San Diego at night, and your body will instantly relax. The lights that lazily wind up the trunks of trees along the driveway entrance say welcome to our island on Mission Bay, leave your cares behind, and listen for the sounds of wind and water.

The best thing about traveling with your sister is having a companion who knows your tastes and habits, and doesn’t hold it against you.

Second chances at love come in all shapes, sizes and situations. If you’re in the mood for romantic tales that will give you a smile, you’ll find it in offerings this month that will take you to Mars, Paris, and the Yemen.

A long, thin bar runs the length of the entrance to Scarpetta in Las Vegas, parallel to a series of semi-private cubby-hole tables set into the opposite wall. It’s a cool, contemporary look that sets the tone for the menu and dining experience at celebrity chef Scott Conant’s home for Italian cuisine in Sin City, located on the third floor of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

The Bellagio Las Vegas is known for many things, such as its dancing water fountain show, gourmet dining, and high end casino gaming featured in the 2001 remake of “Ocean’s Eleven.”