This page contains general information about traveling and sightseeing in New Zealand. These items below are based upon several activities the author experienced while traveling on the South Island. Tracks - all hiking trails in New Zealand are called tracks, and people who hike these are called Tramps; the "sport" of hiking the "Tracks" is called "Tramping". In other countries this same outdoor activity would be described as simply … [Read more...]
Zanzibar – Attractions
Dhows located in the surf of the beach in front of Nungwi.Stone Town is full of old buildings including many that are in a state of severe decay. This city seems like a tiny maze at times, however its difficult to get too lost - if you walk far enough you will either end up on the seafront or on Creek Road which is the outermost road in Stone Town. While in Stone Town be sure to visit the evening waterfront "fresh fish cookout." This event … [Read more...]
Paros, Greece – Attractions
If you rent a car or moped on Paros you can easily discover attractions on your own. Many small quaint towns are located in the center of the island and on the southeast side. Several beaches are best accessed by a moped because of their rugged and more remote locations. Looking for some time to relax, see Parikia, other small towns on the island while also visiting some beaches? I would highly recommend at least 5 days on Paros. Do not just come … [Read more...]
Bishop, CA – White Mountain Hike
White Mountain is one of 15 summits in California over 14,000 feet. Along with Shasta it is the only other 14,000+ mountain in California outside of the Sierra Nevada mountains. One of the oldest permanent settlements in North America was located 12,600 feet up one of the sides of White Mountain. This is the highest of the former permanent Indian settlements; there are several encampments slightly lower in elevation. The dirt White Mountain road … [Read more...]
Hopland, CA – Restaurants
While Hopland is small, it does feature a surprisingly number of good restaurants. Here are a few we have visited to date: Blubird Cafe has been located in downtown Hopland for years and is our go to restaurant when we find ourselves in town. The service is friendly, the food delicious. Recommended items include the elk burger and the Tuscan salad with the addition of ahi tuna on top. Many ingredients are sourced locally including local beef … [Read more...]
Manzanillo, Mexico – Cuyutlan & Paraiso
Cuyutlan & Paraiso are located 30 miles southeast of Manzanillo. Not built up, a number of smaller fishing villages are located in the region along with several fine seafood restaurants. I like this area compared to the city of Manzanillo because this is rural Mexico and is well-removed from the beaten path of many tourists. It is a popular spot for vacationing Mexican families, many of whom are from Guadalajara. Cuyutlan like several of the … [Read more...]
Monterey, CA – Nearby Towns
Note that despite a fairly small population in Monterey and surrounding communities - during rush hour traffic can be quite bad in and around Monterey - in the Cannery Row area and Highway 1 in and around Sand City. Allow extra time if traveling during these early morning and late afternoon weekday times. Castroville is a small town about 20 minutes north of Monterey - located just off of Highway 1. The self anointed artichoke center of the … [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 Hotels
The prices listed below range from the lowest (the off season rates/single person - 1 room) to the highest (holidays and weekends /double person - one room). 'Motel Row' is situated along part of Munras Ave where motels are stacked up like houses, one after the other. These tend to be smaller one or two story older but well maintained properties, (unlike for instance, "Motel Row" in Tahoe's South Shore). Most are not immediately within a short … [Read more...]
Monterey, CA – More Info
The Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is located at 380 Alvarado St in Monterey, CA 93940. They can also be reached at Phone Number (408) 649-1770. | www.mpcc.com The Carmel Business Association is located at San Carlos between 5th and 6th Streets. P.O. Box 4444, Carmel CA 93921. Their Phone Number is (408) 624-2522. | www.carmelcalifornia.org Pacific Grove is not written about in this article but we have included their Chamber of … [Read more...]