One of the great things about cruising is leaving the logistics to others. Certain destinations are ideally suited to cruises including Alaska, due to its vast geographical distances, remote landscapes and rugged coastal beauty. Our Alaskan Inside Passage cruise was on the Holland America Eurodam, a ship whose inaugural sail was in 2008. We first cruised on this particular ship in 2015 in the Caribbean. One certainly becomes spoiled, merely … [Read more...]
The Biggest Poker-Playing Countries Across the World
Are you interested in where the biggest poker-playing countries around the world are? Read on to find all the details America Poker is permeated into the history and culture of North and South America. Was there ever a Western movie that didn’t feature a scene of the rogue cowboy at a poker table, either proving that he can outbluff anyone in the saloon or gaining money for his next escapade. It is one of the main staples of physical … [Read more...]
Time Travel in Nevada City
60 miles northeast of Sacramento lies one of the most picturesque towns in Gold Country. Nevada City, California was originally settled in 1849 and retains much of its old-world charm even today. Modern Nevada City is a haven of laidback living, drawing in post-Burning Man festival-goers with promises of wellness and recuperation. During the spring/summer season, the town comes alive with craft fairs, film festivals and live music, while … [Read more...]
Los Alamos, California – September 2021
Los Alamos (population approximately 1,900). Sometimes, even in such a populated state as California one finds little windows into both the past and the present. Located 2 hours north of downtown Los Angeles, this tiny town is one such destination. It remains rooted in its history yet fully embraces the contemporary. Charming in its visual appeal, the town encompasses some 7 blocks of restaurants, wine tasting rooms, several hotels, antiques … [Read more...]
In Virginia City, Nevada, Family Adventures Run Deep
Discover an Authentic Modern Day Bonanza for All Ages VIRGINIA CITY, Nev. — Long before theme parks, amusement centers and family resorts there was Virginia City, a thriving modern-day Bonanza that was once the largest city west of Denver. Virginia City made a name for itself in 1859 when eager prospectors struck it rich and the Comstock Lode was unearthed. Seemingly frozen in time, Virginia City's historical significance has been carefully … [Read more...]
Put Belfast on Your European Travel List
If you’ve never been to Belfast, Northern Ireland, you are in for a treat. Set aside any preconceived notions of a dull and dirty industrial city besieged by the dark legacy of “The Troubles.” Instead, prepare to discover a lively culture that charms and welcomes visitors. Belfast is chock full of fun activities for both adults and kids alike, and the city is a genuine treat to explore. I hope to infuse my travel bug and world curiosity into … [Read more...]
Tips for a Romantic Getaway in Austin, Texas
Austin is, undoubtedly, for lovers. We boast awe-inspiring natural wonders, great food, and culture to spare. Whether you’re still in the honeymoon stage with your special somebody or you’re celebrating fifty years together and still get butterflies, you can count on Austin to provide you with all the magic of a true romantic escape from reality. Tell Your Partner to Take a Hike Lace up your hiking boots and pack a picnic dinner and a … [Read more...]
An Oasis in Death Valley is Restored Beyond Its Original Grandeur
When exploring the vast open spaces of the Western United States, millions of travelers visit iconic National Parks like the Grand Canyon or Yosemite. For the uninitiated, Death Valley National Park may appear to simply be a wasteland with record breaking temperatures famous for frying eggs on blacktop. But dig deeper and you have one of the country’s largest National Parks with extremely comfortable daytime winter and early spring temperatures … [Read more...]
Finding Inspiration (and lots of fish) at Waterfall Resort, Alaska
52-acres of wilderness await guests at Waterfall Resort - a private fishing lodge located on Prince of Wales Island near Alaska's Inside Passage. Seasonal runs of large numbers of fish pass through here including wild king and silver salmon, various size halibut (and this fish can easily get over 100 pounds), lingcod and numerous other types of fish. The site of the resort was once a thriving cannery - founded in 1912 and operating through the … [Read more...]
Taking Advantage of Bright Sun in Belfast Before the Rain Sets In
Upon landing in Belfast, Northern Ireland (or as some might say, 'Nord Iron') I was pleasantly surprised to see some sun peeking through the clouds. Coming from bright sunny days in Spain this past week with warm temperatures I had braced myself for brisk cloudy days and bone chilling nights. I felt welcomed on the bus ride into town; a gentleman facing me in another seat kept smiling my way - talking to the lady he was with and nodding in my … [Read more...]