Arequipa is often referred to as the white city due to the white washed look of its buildings (made from sillar, the Spanish name for the volcanic white rock mined from local quarries). The city is located at about 8,300 feet in southern Peru and is surrounded by tall mountains and the prominent volcano, El Misti. However, it is only a couple of hours from the ocean by vehicle. The weather is dry, crisp and clear with pleasant days and cool … [Read more...]
Arequipa, Peru – Colca Canyon
For those who are in decent shape, a trek in Colca Canyon is one of the highlights of visiting Arequipa. Choose from a variety of trekking itineraries ranging from 1 to 2 to 3+ days. The actual canyon is about 4-5 hours by bus from Arequipa (depending on which trailhead you use). We do not recommend doing this as a day trip - as the distances are to great, with very limited time at the canyon and extremely early departure and late arrival times. … [Read more...]
Arequipa, Peru – Other Activities
All listings on this page are alphabetized. We visited or participated in all the activities listed on this page. Colca Canyon - view our description here El Misti - towers above Arequipa at 5,822 M or 19,101 feet. Visitors to the city can't miss it; it dominates the skyline. Several options are available for hiking in its vicinity or climbing to the top. A normal climb is 2 to 3 days but those who have problems with altitude or are not … [Read more...]
Arequipa, Peru – Restaurants
We have eaten at many restaurants in Arequipa and never had a problem with the food in regards to food sickness. With that said, be sure the food is well cooked and avoid unwashed fruit or uncooked vegetables, such as lettuce. In basic restaurants we refrained from ordering fresh salads even though we were very tempted. We never had a problem eating fresh fruit and vegetables in the higher end restaurants. Some local dishes to consider trying … [Read more...]
Union Creek Resort, Oregon – September 2003
Union Creek Resort Oregon - Located only 23 miles from Crater Lake, America's deepest lake, this resort offers solitude and serenity for those wanting a place to "escape". Choose from rooms in the Lodge or the Cabins. A store, cafe and ice cream shop are all on the premises. This is the gateway to hiking, fishing, swimming and a multitude of other outdoor activities. The hotel itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and used … [Read more...]
Bangkok, Thailand – Restaurants
In Bangkok, some of the street food can be as good as any of the sit down restaurants and certainly much cheaper. In addition, Thai's pride themselves on cleanliness. Compared to our street food experiences in other countries where we have often gotten sick, we do not get sick from street food in Bangkok. In many parts of Bangkok street food vendors are seemingly everywhere and in certain districts they stay open very late. For example if you … [Read more...]
Bangkok, Thailand – Day Trips
The following destinations range from half day to very long day trips from Bangkok. AYUTTHAYA used to be the largest and main city in Thailand before Bangkok. Its located about 90 minutes north of Bangkok by bus (via the Mo Chit bus station) or about 2 hours by train from the Hua Lampong train station in Bangkok. It is well worth seeing if you have a day. It takes most of the day to see this city when you count your travel and visiting … [Read more...]
McConnell’s Ice Cream, Santa Barbara CA July 2001
McConnell's Ice Cream Santa Barbara - If you are ever in Santa Barbara California be sure to stop in at the Mission Street Ice Cream & Yogurt Shop, featuring McConnell's Ice Cream. In our humble opinion, McConnell's is the "best" ice cream in Santa Barbara. This shop is located at the corner of Mission and De La Vina streets just a few blocks over from the northern part of State Street (actual address, 201 Mission Street). The prices aren't … [Read more...]
Catalina, CA – Avalon
Avalon is the urban center of Catalina. It is a mix of day trippers, at times - cruise ship passengers and locals. The town is centered around the beautiful waterfront and for good reason - most passengers arrive here and it is a visually stunning part of town that at times almost looks European. The town spreads out into the surrounding hills - featuring older and often colorful wooden buildings. Brightly colored flowering flowing … [Read more...]
Catalina, CA – Restaurants
Avalon has a diversity of restaurants - most overlooking the bay or within several blocks of the water. The following are select restaurants in Avalon. As with hotels, the prices for food can be significantly lower during the off/winter season. Prices subject to change without notice. Unless otherwise noted all phone numbers are in the 310 area code Avalon Grille is located in the central part of Avalon overlooking the … [Read more...]