We highlight this hotel on its own page within our Guadalajara guide because of its uniqueness as being the oldest hotel in the western hemisphere. Hotel Frances Guadalajara is located in the heart of Guadalajara's downtown historic district, within a short walk of Plaza Tapatia, address: Maestranza 35. Hotel Frances was founded in 1610; it was renovated and restored in the early 1980's. Priced reasonably with plenty of old world charm. During … [Read more...]
Hopland, CA – Wine Tasting
Tiny Hopland contains a number of tasting rooms which deliver down to earth experiences for visitors - focusing on wines from Mendocino County. Although there are many wineries in Mendocino County including a number of tasting rooms in Hopland, this area does not have the recognition that perhaps Napa and Sonoma County have obtained over the decades. For the consumer, that is not a bad thing. Mendocino County is producing some stellar wines (the … [Read more...]
Manzanillo, Mexico – Restaurants
Most of the fancier restaurants are located on or quite close to beaches. There is also a good selection of restaurants in or near the center of town surrounding the primary zocalo (public square). Most of the good restaurants will serve bottled water instead of tap water. However, I recommend asking if they serve bottled water at all restaurants you eat at. Or simply drink beer. Restaurant Bar Roca del Mar is located on the east side of … [Read more...]
Monterey, CA – Carmel
Carmel is a picturesque small town with a variety of art galleries, boutique hotels and tucked away restaurants. To some people Carmel may be categorized by only two words: art galleries. This town was established in 1904 by a group of artists and writers as a retreat center. The original flavor of the town is still preserved today. It has a unique individuality and small village charm. There are many different architectural styles, many … [Read more...]
Monterey, CA – Monterey Restaurants
Monterey has a great selection of restaurants. This city is known for excellent seafood and this is easy to see, considering Monterey is situated on the coast. If these restaurants have been rated we will be sure to include a rating. The prices listed below are for dinner only. Most of the good restaurants in the town of Monterey are located at Fisherman's Wharf or along certain sections of Cannery Row or in the downtown area. Prices … [Read more...]
Oaxaca, Mexico – Festivals
Oaxacan Festivals are the most exciting times of the year in Oaxaca; many have religious significance. Participants in certain festivals will parade between churches in order to complete a variety of rituals. Others march around the zocalo wearing ornate costumes. December is a popular festival month but festivals are held at certain times throughout the year. Guelaguetza is perhaps the largest and most exciting Oaxacan festival. This … [Read more...]
Oaxaca, Mexico – Restaurants
There are many restaurants in Oaxaca, perhaps on average, they are a little more expensive then comparable restaurants in other cities in Mexico. This can be attributed to the fact that Oaxaca is a popular tourism destination. Years ago I heard that visitors were afraid to eat in Oaxaca's restaurants for fear of becoming sick from food poisoning. This has completely changed as the standards of food health have improved significantly including … [Read more...]
Oaxaca, Mexico – More Info
We were highly satisfied with Roberto's Oaxaca Tours. He offers a number of specialized tours. Roberto is an excellent driver and guide who *really knows* the Oaxaca scene. He speaks fluent English. His tours are setup for travelers, not for himself. And that is a big difference. Google him and be sure to book his services far in advance as he is in high demand. Looking for a cool space to hang out while in Oaxaca? Check out Convivio located … [Read more...]
Mt. Whitney, CA – Manzanar
Manzanar is located directly West of the 395, about 10 miles north of Lone Pine. Manzanar was the first of ten remote camps that in total held almost 120,000 Americans of Japanese ancestry during World War II. During its peak period over 10,000 people lived there. Over 600 barracks were built (organized into 36 blocks) along with recreation halls, a judo hall, a hospital, an orphanage, 3 schools, and a music hall. Now you can drive down … [Read more...]
Gold Country, CA – Greeley Hill
Greeley Hill is located on Highway 132, the back way into Yosemite National Park. This is a very small town. When you first enter the outskirts of this town you will see a sign that says "Greeley Hill: Population friendly, elevation just right". Sounds good! This town is located about 8 miles from Coulterville up a winding grade that climbs from the dry chaparral of Coulterville to the pines of Greeley Hill. This town is not a true mining town … [Read more...]