Category Archives: US travel

Our Adirondack Family Vacation in Photos 2005

The Great Escape in Lake George, NY

Downtown Lake Placid

Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake

Young Life Saranac Lake

Beaver Meadow Waterfalls

My brother and I at the rental house in the Adirondacks

The Dock at the Lake House in the Adirondacks

The beautiful mountains in the Adirondacks

The Adirondack Mountains

Surrounded by mountains while on vacation

Driving through the Adirondack Mountains

Sunday Driving in the Adirondacks

Meeting my Brother’s Girlfriend, Emily, for the First Time

What to See and What to Do:

Six Flags Great Escape
1172 US-9
Queensbury, NY 12804
Telephone: 518 824 6000

Sixty miles north of Albany, Six Flags is not only an amusement park but a water park named Hurricane Harbor.

Where to Stay:

We stayed in a rental home that we booked through VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner)

Where to Eat:

Black Bear Restaurant
2409 Main Street
Lake Placid, NY 12946
Telephone:  513 837 5166

Cozy, casual lakeside American eatery offering meat, seafood & pasta dishes, plus cocktails.

What to Eat:

  • Chicken Riggies (Chicken Rigatoni)
  • Dry Rieslings from Seneca Lake
  • Egg Cream – milk, seltzer and chocolate syrup
  • Frozen Custard
  • The Garbage Plate – Originating in Rochester, this dish includes burger patties with baked beans, macaroni salad and home fries slathered with ketchup and hot sauce.

What to Read:

Books by Author, Julia Spencer-Fleming

Photo Guide for the Upstate New York:

  • Kaaterskill Falls
  • Letchworth State Park
  • Mount Marcy, Adirondacks
  • Chimney Bluffs State Park
  • The Egg, Albany

Maine’s Acadia, Watching Whales and Exploring Doubling Point Lighthouse

As a family, we booked an RV vacation which took us along the east coast of the United States.  Each of my siblings and I were given the task of coming up with an itinerary for an assigned stop on our RV adventure.  We visited northern Ohio, Niagara Falls, Maine, Boston, New York City and Philadelphia.

Each of us was given a location to research and select the activities for the day.  My sister, Shelly mapped out our itinerary for our visit to Maine and I was so excited she included Acadia National Park.   Sprawling nearly 50,000 acres on the east coast, this mesmerizing, scenic park is full of stunning landscapes and amazing wildlife.  I was hoping to see moose at Acadia, and viewing the majestic whales on our cruise of the harbor was such an awesome experience as well.

We started our day by stopping by Hulls Cove Visitor Center to pick up a map and additional information about the park.  We were curious to find if there were any educational sessions or ranger talks scheduled.  From here, we picked up Acadia’s 27-mile scenic Park Loop Road, eventually reaching the top of Cadillac Mountain. From 1500 feet, we caught an amazing panoramic view of the Atlantic, the park and its nearby islands.

By the late 1800’s, this land became the playground for the rich and famous to include the Carnegies, Vanderbilts, Astors, Fords and the Rockefellers.  It was John D. Rockefeller who gifted the park its 45 miles of carriage roads used for automobiles, bikes, horses and carriages.  In addition to its carriage roads, the park offers over 150 miles of hiking trails and is one of the most-visited parks in the United States.

Another feature of the park that we thoroughly enjoyed was walking across the Bar Island Land Bridge.  At low tide, we could walk across for spectacular views of Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island.  We were warned in advance that we would have about an hour and a half to cross and return before the tide would rise.

The views of Bar Harbor were breathtaking from this charming coastal town.  Boats anchored in the cove while others were prepared to transport passengers on a number of whale watching excursions.  We enjoyed an afternoon of shopping and made lunch reservations at a nearby restaurant with a seaside overlook.

Shortly after lunch, we boarded a small boat for our own whale watching tour. The weather was perfect for our brief sea escape with the opportunity to see humpbacks breaching out of the water.  While mid-April is the best time to see these gentle giants, we could not have been happier spotting a couple of whales during our three-hour tour with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company.

After we returned from our trip, we boarded our RV and decided to check out the most visited lighthouse in Maine, the Doubling Point Lighthouse.   Located along the Kennebec River, it was not an easy route to reach the light, but we loved the beautiful scenery and remote location.  We spent about a half an hour here before piling back into the motor coach for our next stop on our itinerary, Boston.

Have you toured around the state of Maine?  What were your favorite places to visit?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my lovely visit to Maine and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Acadia National Park
PO Box 177
Bar Harbor, ME  04609
Telephone:  207 288 3338

  • Admission Fee:   Each entrance fee covers 7 days of park entry.  Private Vehicle: $30; Motorcycle:  $25 and Hiker/Biker: $15  which only applies to visitors 16 years old and older entering the park by foot, bicycle, etc.    An annual Pass for Acadia National Park is $55 which is valid for one year through the month of purchase.
  • Hours:  The park is open seasonally and hours vary, so check the National Park Website for the most up-to-date information.
  • Amenities:  camping, hiking, boating, swimming, biking, bird watching, climbing, fishing, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, Visitor’s Centers which provide interpretive exhibits and park information and Ranger programs. Guided tours are also available in the park.
  • Scenic View:  Take in the view from Cadillac Mountain and along the various trails throughout the park.
  • Length of Visit:  Three days is the minimal recommended time to see all of the attractions at Acadia.
  • Tips for Your Visit:  If you are looking for animals, winter is the time that they hibernate.   Spring is a wonderful time to visit because you can see newborn babies.  When viewing wildlife, you must stay 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yard from all other animals in the park.  For photographers, you may already know that dawn and dusk are the best times to photograph animals and you will want to bring a telephoto lens for capturing them from far distances. Summer is the busiest time for the park you may find road construction and traffic.

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company
1 West Street
Bar Harbor, ME  04609
Telephone:  207 288 2386

  • Rates:   Rates range from $32 to $63 for adults on a variety of trips; $20 to $33 for children ages 6 – 14 and $14 for children ages five and under.
  • Hours:  The activities take place from May to October.  Visit the website for each activities and the departure times for these events.
  • Amenities:  Ferry services
  • Length of Tour:  Varies by tour, refer to the website
  • Tips for Your Visit:   Take medication for seasickness should you think the seas may affect you.

Doubling Point Lighthouse
Doubling Point Road
Arrowsic, ME  04530
Email: mspencer@student.uchc.edu,jaehs@aol.com

  • Admission Fee:  No Admission Fee
  • Hours:  8AM to 6PM daily
  • Scenic View:  The lighthouse and surrounding area
  • Length of Visit:  No more than one hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear bug spray during the summer months.  Refer to the website for detailed directions to the lighthouse.  The lighthouse is not accessible, but you can look inside only.

Where to Stay:

Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA Holiday
136 County Road
Bar Harbor, ME  04609
Telephone:  207 288 3520

Where to Eat:

Fish House Grill
1 West Street
Bar Harbor, ME  04609
Telephone:  207 288 3070

We shared the New England Clam Bake  and I also ordered the bacon wrapped scallops served with a maple and brown sugar glaze.

What to Eat:

  • Baked Beans and Hot Dogs
  • Blueberry Pancakes
  • Clam Roll
  • Clambake
  • Haddock Chowder
  • Indian Pudding
  • Italian Sandwich
  • Lobster, of course and served with butter
  • Lobster Pie
  • Lobster Roll
  • Maine Potato Fries
  • Maple Sugar and Syrup
  • New England Boiled Dinner

What to Read:

  • The Cider House Rules by John Irving
  • Empire Falls by Richard Russell
  • Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
  • The Maine Woods by Henry David
  • Most Stephen King books

Photo Guide for Maine:

  • Acadia National Park
  • Cadillac Mountain Summit

 

San Francisco’s Iconic Golden Gate Bridge

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Whether it is the Arch of St. Louis, the Alamo in San Antonio, or the Space Needle in Seattle, very few iconic images compare with the glorious representation of a city than San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

It is impossible to imagine San Francisco without thinking of its spectacular bridge.  Regardless of the number of times I travel to San Fran, I am not satisfied until I drive over it or walk the span for breathtaking views of the city.   Once the largest suspension bridge in the world, visitors can walk, bike, drive or ride over the two-mile platform that connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County.

It was an overcast day on my last visit, but I layered up and made sure I would be comfortable for a stroll across.

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The Golden Gate Bridge was not named for its color but for the strait that it spans,  Opening in May of 1937, this steel suspension bridges retains a main span measuring 4,200 feet.

As cars drove across the bridge during my walk, I could hear the whirring sound of the tires and the hollow thumps from the grates that offer views into the water below.

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The men who designed the bridge were Joseph Strauss, Irving Morrow, and Charles Ellis.  But it was Joseph Strauss, a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, who provided oversight for the day-to-day construction of the bridge beginning in January of 1933.

It is said that Strauss became fascinated by bridges during a hospitalization in Cincinnati.  With a view of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge from his hospital room, he would later be employed by a company that specialized in building them.

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The view of the bridge from the southeast side visitor parking lot shows the roadway straight through to the other side.  The visitor’s center, gardens and café are accessible from this lot and it is a great starting point for enjoying scenic overlooks and vistas.

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The Golden Gate Bridge is open 24 hours a day and it is estimated that approximately 110,000 vehicles travel over the bridge on a daily basis.   That does not include the 10,000 pedestrians and 6,000 cyclists that cross as well.

Tolls are only collected in one direction as you head into San Francisco from Marin County.  There is a toll charge of $7.25 for 2 axles and motorcycles (as of this writing).

Enjoy the San Francisco rite of passage by walking or biking the Golden Gate Bridge and you will see San Francisco from a whole new perspective.

Have you visited San Francisco and was the Golden Gate Bridge on your itinerary?  How did you cross it?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my short post about the Golden Gate Bridge!  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Golden Gate Bridge
P.O. Box 9000, Presidio Station
San Francisco, CA 94129-0601
Telephone:  877 229 8655 or 415 486 8655

  • Admission Fee:   Walk or bike the Golden Gate Bridge at no charge.  There is a fee to travel by car, so check the website for the most recent information.
  • Hours:   The Golden Gate Bridge is open 24 hours, seven days a week.
  • Amenities:  Parking, welcome center, cafe, bookstore, historical site
  • Scenic View:  From several vantage points from the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 5 hours depending on how you explore the park
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Access the bridge from both the north and south.   Where comfortable shoes for walking across the bridge.  The six lanes for cars is tight, so be mindful of other drivers and keep your eyes on the road.

Where to Stay:

Sheraton Palace Hotel, now The Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA  94105
Telephone:  415 512 1111

Where to Eat:

  • Castagnola’s – The restaurant is known for its soups served in bread bowls.  Select the clam chowder bread bowl or the lobster bisque bread bowl.
  • Ghirardelli Chocolate Company – The world famous hot fudge sundae is the best seller.

Where to Drink: 

  • Iron Horse – Their signature drinks include the James Bond Martini, Goldfinger, Alice in Wonderland, Tiki Temple and Happy Fortune.

What to Read: 

  • Cool Grey City of Love by Gary Kamiya
  • San Francisco Stories by Jack London
  • Zodiac by Robert Graysmith
  • Alcatraz-1259 by William Baker

Photo Guide for San Francisco: 

  • Aquatic Park is the best place to photograph San Francisco’s waterfront
  • Broadway Street in North Beach for its neon signs and was formerly known as the area’s “red light district”
  • Chinatown is absolutely amazing for taking photos of America’s oldest Chinatown.
  • Coit Tower for 360 degree views of San Francisco and the harbor
  • de Young Museum Observation Deck located at Golden Gate Park is perfect for panoramic photos of the city.  Bypass the line to enter the museum to reach the Hamon Observation Tower to take your photos.
  • Fort Point is a decommissioned military base on the waterfront which provides outstanding views of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge
  • The Marin Headlands is one of the best places to photograph the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge
  • Treasure Island for spectacular views of San Francisco’s skyline
  • See the entire city of San Francisco from Twin Peaks

Phenomenal Cliff Dwellings at Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma, AZ, 1999

Well-preserved and protected from the elements,  an ancient Indian cliff dwelling is said to have been built between 1100 to 1425 AD.  Standing five stories tall, an estimated forty-five to sixty rooms have been built into an alcove of limestone.

When I arrived in the small town of Camp Verde, Arizona, I could not have imagined the beauty of the Montezuma Castle National Monument.  What I found most impressive was the craftsmanship of the Sinagua and the incredible cliff dwellings they had built nearly 100 feet above Beaver Creek Canyon.

Approaching the site, I immediately noticed the detail of Montezuma’s construction and how the large stones were held together by a primitive mix of clay and mud.  The walls were built from layers of mud measuring about an inch thick protecting the interior rooms and providing a barrier from the wind and heat.  The thatched roof was  constructed of local Arizona sycamore intertwined with mud.  According to the artifacts found at the site, these rooms were used for both living space and storage.

Researchers believe that the Indians may have fled in the mid-11th century when nearby Sunset Crater Volcano erupted.  They would later return in the late 1100s as the area was then perfect for growing crops following the event.  The aftermath of the eruption gave the Indians a strong, reliable watershed for irrigation and a much richer soil.

Montezuma Castle National Monument became a US National Monument in 1906 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.   Early visitors could climb up into the ancient apartment complex  through a series of ladders until it was prohibited to do so in 1951.  While the interior of the settlement is not accessible today, the site is a spectacular example of Indian life of the Southwest.   There are approximately 400,000 visitors that tour the park and visitor’s center each year.  The Visitor’s Center displays artifacts and provides a historical account of the lives of the Sinaguan culture.  Even today, this location remains a place of religious ceremonies for the local Hopi and Yavapai Indians.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Montezuma Castle National Monument in Arizona?  What did you think of your experience?  I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Montezuma and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Montezuma Castle National Monument
Montezuma Castle Road
Camp Verde, Arizona  86322
Telephone:  928 567 3322

To reach Montezuma Castle National Monument, follow these directions:

Follow I-17 to exit 289 (90 minutes north of Phoenix, 45 minutes south of Flagstaff).  Drive east (through 2 traffic circles) for approximately ½ mile to the blinking red light.  Turn left onto Montezuma Castle Road.

  • Admission Fee:  Montezuma Castle Entrance fees are Adults (16 and older):  $10 which is good for seven days for the castle as well as the Tuzigoot National Monuments;  Children under 16 can enter at no charge.   There are several holidays where entrance is free to include Martin Luther King Jr. Day, First Day of National Park Week/National Junior Ranger Day, National Service Park Anniversary, National Public Lands Day and Veterans Day
  • Hours:  The visitor center, museum and trail are open daily from 8AM to 5PM;  Montezuma Well Trail is also open daily from 8AM to 5PM and for all attractions, the last vehicle admission is 4:45PM.  For additional discounted fees visit the park’s website.
  • Amenities:  Educational opportunities and bookstore
  • Scenic View:  Montezuma Castle is spectacular dating over 800 years
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  Consider arriving early (around 9AM) when the sun will be behind you.  Parking may be difficult because it is small, but spaces are more available after lunch on most days.  Don’t forget that your entrance fee also includes the Tuzigoot Ruins!

Where to Stay: 

The Lodge at Cliff Castle Casino
333 Middle Verde Road
Camp Verde, AZ  86322
Telephone:  866 925 7881
Website: https://www.cliffcastlecasinohotel.com/

Where to Eat:

Mountain Springs Buffet at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel 

What to Eat: 

  • Avocado Fries are sliced avocados dipped in spiced bread crumbs and deep fried.
  • Chiltepin Peppers….very hot!
  • Cholla, a cactus found in the area, that is boiled and the gooey acid is removed to eat directly or added to salsas.
  • Cochinitos are a puffy, doughy cookie usually found in the shape of a pig.  This light dessert is seasoned with molasses and cinnamon.
  • Prickly Pear Cactus which is made into a candy and a sweet syrup
  • Sonoran Hot Dog, popular in Phoenix and Tucson, this Mexican creation is topped with beans, onions, and tomatoes along with mayonnaise and mustard.
  • Tamales!

What to Read: 

  • The Women in the Castle, by Jessica Shattuck
  • The High House, by Jessie Greengrass
  • The Cave Dwellers, by Christina McDowell

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

The Energy of Times Square in New York City

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I am always fascinated by all of the lights in New York City!  I wished I could have experienced the city at night, but it is just as spectacular in the day!  I have visited New York City before, but usually it was a stopover flight to my next destination.  New York is a fast paced city in the northeast United States and Times Square is at the heart of it all!

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I learned quickly that Times Square is not a square but actually a long stretch of roadway that eventually meets at Broadway and Seventh Avenue.  It is not a view that is unfamiliar to me as I have watched the New Years’ Eve ball drop from this location for quite a few number of years.  There are over 300,000 people who visit Times Square on a daily basis to total about 50 million annually.  Here is a view of the northern part of Times Square where the central building’s address is Two Times Square.

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In a city where you can buy just about anything, Times Square is also the place to find discount tickets for the theater.  Don’t be alarmed when the top shows are not available, as these sell out pretty quickly.  Most likely you will find tickets for the Off Broadway shows or the long running productions.     Look for the TKTS booth at the north end of Times Square for some of the best deals!

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It is no doubt that Times Square is one of the most recognized pieces of real estate.  From its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most popular metropolitan cities throughout the world, New York City is definitely a city with a rich history and an energy that compares with such a few.

So as I am standing amidst what is also known as the Center of the Universe, I take in the bright lights and neon signs, the crowded streets and passing taxis.  My senses encompass the pulse of the city and I am mesmerized by it all.  What an amazing experience!

Have you been to New York City?  Did you visit Times Square? I would love to hear your favorite attractions and restaurants when you visit the Big Apple!  Just leave a message in the comments below! Many thanks for reading my post and Happy Travels!

Where to Stay:

The Manhattan at Times Square
790 7th Avenue
New York, New York 10019
Telephone: 212 581 3300

Where to Eat:

Gramercy Tavern
42 E. 20th Street
New York, New York 10003
Telephone: 212 477 0777

A Collection of Blog Posts from 2014

What a great year for travel!  Here are some of my adventure blog posts for 2014:

ASIA:

Philippines

Arriving to the Mission by Tuk-Tuk

Pre-School and Pampering at Naomi’s Heart

Haircuts for the Amazing Women at the Mission

CARIBBEAN AND PORTS OF CALL: 

Antigua

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The Bahamas

Freeport, Grand Bahama

Barbados

Malibu Beach, Barbados

Belize, Honduras and Mexico:  Altun Ha

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins

Costa Rica:  A Photographic Review

Gorgeous Beaches in Costa Rica

Jamaica:  Dunn’s River Falls

Climbing Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Mexico: Cozumel

Downtown Cozumel, Mexico

Hurricane Gilbert

The Massive Destruction of Hurricane Gilbert to the Yucatan Peninsula in 1988

EUROPE:  

Italy:  Venice

1 D2 Watching the Sunrise at St. Mark's Square

A Morning Stroll Through Venice

Monaco

0928 Castle of Eze

Views from the Perfume Factory

UNITED STATES:

United States, Arizona:  Jerome Historic State Park

Hotel at Jerome State Park

Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater, Arizona

Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Wood

United States, Arizona:  Sedona

Sedona Colors, 1999

The gorgeous rocks of Sedona

United States, California:  San Francisco

Alcatraz Island

+020903 Approaching Alcatraz Island

Approaching Alcatraz Island

United States, Florida:  Cypress Gardens

Enjoying the Beautiful Grounds

United States, Florida:  Key West

Beautiful Sunset from Mallory Square, Key West

United States, Florida:  Walt Disney World

The Magic Kingdom

United States, Hawaii:  Diamond Head

The Hike is Worth the View

United States, Hawaii:  Pearl Harbor

USS Arizona Memorial

United States, Hawaii:  Hanauma Bay

Amazing View of Hanauma Bay

United States, Hawaii:  Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Exploring Hawaii’s Volcanoe National Park

Hawaiian Luau

Enjoying the Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center

The Epic Kauai Experience

The Gorgeous Landscape of Kauai

United States, Illinois:  Chicago

Chicago Fountain, Illinois

United States, Louisiana: New Orleans

Jackson Square, New Orleans

United States, Michigan:  Hale

Arriving in Michigan – The Start of our Vacation

United States, Michigan, Hale: 1st Day of Vacation

The View from Our Vacation Rental

United States:  Michigan

Mackinac Island

4 110721 Macinaw city harbor from ferry

Shepler’s Ferry

5 Approaching Mackinac Island

A View of the Grand Hotel from the Ferry

6 48 Mackinac Island Harbor

Mackinac Island Harbor

8 110721 Joy and Bikes at Mackinac Island

Bike Rentals on Mackinac Island

10 110721 Amazing Flowers at Mackinac

Beautiful Flowers in the Shopping District of Mackinac Island

13 54 Horse Carriage of Grand Hotel

Transportation to the Grand Hotel

United States, North Carolina:  Bodie Island

Bodie Island Lighthouse, Outer Banks

Bodie Island Lighthouse

United States, North Carolina:  Carolina Beach

Choosing our Campsite

Currituck Heritage Park, Corolla

Currituck Heritage Lighthouse

United States, Ohio:  Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail

Exploring the Gorge

United States, Ohio: Eagle Sighting at Highbanks

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Spending the Afternoon Searching for Eaglets

United States, Ohio: Marietta

Road Trip to Marietta

United States, Ohio:  Living Word Outdoor Drama

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The Resurrection of Jesus

United States, Ohio:  Renaissance Festival 

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Strolling the Medieval Town During the Festival

United States, Ohio:  Battelle Darby Creek

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A Lovely Winter Hike

United States, Ohio:  Living Word Outdoor Drama

Living Word Outdoor Drama

United States Ohio Christmas:

Columbus: Alum Creek Lights

Drive Thru Christmas Lights

United States: Rhode Island:  Cliff Walk

Chanler Entrance 1

The Chanler in Newport

United States:  Sioux Falls, South Dakota

My First Buffalo Sighting

United States, South Dakota: Needles Drive

The Needle

United States, South Dakota: Sylvan Lake

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Beautiful Reflections off of Sylvan Lake

United States, South Dakota:  Custer Park

Custer Park’s Wildlife Drive

United States, South Dakota:  Yellowstone

Where the Buffalo Roam

United States, South Dakota:  Yellowstone

A First Impression of Yellowstone

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The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

United States, Texas:  Galveston

Todd Shipyards, Galveston

United States, Wyoming: Yellowstone

The Grand Lodge at Yellowstone

 

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

My First Visit to San Diego, 2002

It’s hard to believe it has been fifteen years since I first visited San Diego.  I remember how much I fell in love with this city.  Its history, weather and scenic views were the reasons I returned so often each year and eventually moved to Southern California.

Attending a conference with several colleagues, I always welcomed their recommendations for an amazing hotel and fabulous restaurants.  We spent many a night at Old Town Mexican Café and Restaurant drinking margaritas and noshing on chips and salsa.

Although we spent the majority of our day at the San Diego Convention Center, we had some time to entertain our clients and plan dinners with potential customers.  Each time I visit San Diego on business, I extend my trip to catch up with friends, hike and explore new places.

My first weekend stay was at the Catamaran Resort Hotel on Pacific Beach, about twenty minutes from the trade show.  I loved the location because it was on the water, it offered privacy from the convention and I wanted to learn how to surf. Pacific Beach, known as PB to the locals, is the perfect getaway from business meetings and events.  While it is known as the “party beach” for the twenties crowd, I enjoyed its laid-back atmosphere and spectacular sunsets.

One of my favorite places to visit is Balboa Park, a short drive from downtown.  A mega-complex with seventeen museums and extraordinary gardens, it is also home to the city’s famous San Diego Zoo.  While I have not attend a cultural event here, I have strolled through its 1200 acres making a stop at The San Diego Museum of Art.

Within minutes from Balboa Park is the Bazaar del Mundo, a shopping plaza in the heart of Old Town.  When in search of Mexican-inspired gifts, I visited Artes de Mexico and the Guatemala Shop with their colorful, hand-crafted souvenirs.  For colorful, hand-painted ceramics and authentic Mexican salsas and sauces, Home Accents offers a variety of kitchen and home décor products.

After shopping for an hour or two, I looked forward to stopping by Old Town Mexican Café to watch them prepare the tortillas in the window.  For lunch or dinner, I always start with a margarita and an order of their traditional Molcajete or chicken tamale.

My final weekend visit was a trip to Torrey Pines State Park located north of San Diego in the upscale town of La Jolla.  Sitting on 2000 acres along the coast, this amazing oasis of hiking trails is perfect for watching the whale migration from December to April.  I spent the afternoon exploring the park and packed a picnic lunch for the afternoon before returning back to PB for dinner.

San Diego is one of my favorite places to visit and with beautiful weather all year long, there are plenty amazing outdoor adventures and excursions to experience.

What are some of your favorite places to visit in San Diego?  I would love to hear from you if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to San Diego and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Balboa Park:  There is no fee for visiting the park, but there are additional fees for visiting the museums.

San Diego Museum of Art
1450 El Prado
San Diego, CA  92101
Telephone:  619 232 7931

  • Admission Fee:  Adults:  $15, Seniors (65+) and Military: $10, Students: $8
  • Hours:  Open from 10AM to 5PM on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; Open from 12PM to 5PM on Sunday and closed Wednesday.
  • Amenities:  Daily docent tours, Museum store, restaurant, mobile app, parking
  • Length of Visit:  Over 3 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Check for discounts. San Diego city and county residents enter for free on the third Tuesday of each month. February is Macy’s Museum Month and all participating museums are half price entrance with coupon. Check the website for rotating and visiting exhibitions prior to visiting. During the summer, visit Balboa Park for Food Truck Friday.  Bags can be checked at the front door of the museum.

Bazaar del Mundo
4133 Taylor Street
San Diego, CA  92110
Telephone:  619 296 3161

  • Admission Fee:  There is no charge for visiting Bazaar del Mumdo
  • Hours:  Open Sunday and Monday from 10AM to 5:30PM and Tuesday through Saturday from 10AM to 9PM
  • Amenities:  Shopping, restaurants, events
  • Length of Visit:  1-2 hours

Torrey Pines Natural Preserve
12600 North Torrey Pines Road
San Diego, CA  92307
Telephone:  858 755 2063

  • Admission Fee:  The facility use fee depends on which parking lot you use.  South Beach parking during high season (starting at Spring Break until the end of September) costs $15 from Monday – Thursday and $20 from Friday – Saturday.  Low season begins in October until Spring Break where fees are $12 from Monday – Thursday and $15 from Friday to Sunday.  Note that high season prices may be charged during holidays, so be prepared.  For parking on the North Beach, high season (from Spring Break to end of September_ are $10 from Monday – Thursday and $15 from Friday – Sunday.  Payment is accepted at the Automated Pay Machine if no staff is available at the kiosk.  Low season rates are $3 from Monday – Thursday and $10 from Friday – Saturday.  Annual passes are available for $195.
  • Hours:  Open all year from 7:15AM to sunset
  • Amenities:  Visitor center, museum shop, guided nature walks, fishing, parking
  • Scenic View:   Gorgeous views of the coast from the hiking trails and this is the perfect place for watching the sunset.
  • Length of Visit:  3 – 4 hours, but there are hikes that will take under 1 hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  This is a popular location for sunset and holidays can be extremely busy.  Bring water especially if you are hiking.  Food and drink (with the exception of water) is not permitted on the Reserve, but are permitted on the beach. No alcohol on the Reserve and the beach.  Dogs are not permitted and there is no smoking allowed.  Drones are also banned from the Reserve and beach.

Where to Stay:

Catamaran Resort Hotel
3999 Mission Boulevard
San Diego, CA  92109
Telephone:  858 488 1081

Where to Eat:

Old Town Mexican Restaurant and Café
2489 San Diego Avenue
San Diego, CA  92110
Telephone:  619  297 4330

What to Eat:

  • Mexican cuisine, especially tamales
  • California wood-fired pizza
  • Southeast Asian foods
  • Sushi
  • Seafood
  • Local Wines

What to Read:

  • The Dawn Patrol, by Don Winslow
  • San Diego Noir, by Maryelizabeth Hart
  • I So Don’t Do Mysteries, by Barrie Summy
  • Under the Perfect Sun: The San Diego Tourists Never See, by Mike Davis

Photo Guide for San Diego:

  • The Botanical Building and Lily Pond at Balboa Park
  • Greetings from San Diego mural on the sidewall of Belching Beaver Brewery
  • Sunset Cliffs
  • Old Town San Diego

My First Visit to San Francisco in 1998: A Photo Journal

A Trade Show conference brought me to San Francisco for my first time in 1998. Not only was this my first opportunity to explore the Golden Gate City, but my first earthquake experience, which was thankfully, very mild.

The luxurious Sheraton Palace Hotel was my home for a week, centrally located on Market and New Montgomery.  This historical hotel was originally built in 1875 and after the deadly 1906 San Francisco Earthquake was demolished to make way for the new structure in its place.

I walked from my hotel to Chinatown and found Sam Wo Restaurant for lunch. I had learned that this amazing eatery had been in this location on Washington Street since the early 1900s.  The restaurant came highly recommended, so I met up with some new-found friends from the conference to enjoy a fresh take on Chinese food.  We entered the tight set of stairs and ascended to the third floor seated next to the small window overlooking the bustling streets below.  We ordered several small plates (dim sum) and shared our orders so we could sample several dishes of sumptuous food.

On a recent visit to San Francisco, I dined at Delicious Dim Sum on 752 Jackson and found that Sam Wo had relocated his restaurant to 713 Clay Street.

The Dragon Gate Entrance into Chinatown, located on Bush Street and Grant Avenue was a gift from Taiwan in 1969.  Chinatown was established in 1848 and is the oldest and largest Chinatown in North America attracting more visitors than the Golden Gate Bridge.  I loved strolling the shops and markets gazing at the unusual food finds hanging from the store windows. In addition to food, Chinatown is known for its open green space where locals participate in Tai Chi sessions as well as taking their seat at tables to challenge each other with a game of Chinese chess.

From Chinatown, it was a six minute walk to The Transamerica Pyramid, located at 600 Montgomery Street.  Standing in the area known as the Financial District, the tower, an architectural mix of pyramid and obelisk, stands 48 stories tall.  One of the first of its kind, it was built to sustain seismic activity.  It became a comfort to me as I toured the city because I could see it from most anywhere I happened to be standing.

Unfortunately the observation deck has been closed since 9/11, but there is a screen that displays the views from there.  Long ago, visitors could dine at a restaurant at the top and if you could afford it, a boardroom is available for rent on the 48th floor.   The light at the top is a beacon to protect the building from aircraft, and if you have a friend in high places, you too may be able to climb to the top.  At the opposite end of the Pyramid, excavations uncovered a Niantic whaling ship once anchored only feet away.

As I was shopping in Chinatown, I couldn’t help but notice another great landmark, Coit Tower.  I heard that this is also another location for spectacular views of the Pacific as well as the local  neighborhoods.  Standing at 1 Telegraph Hill Boulevard in Pioneer Park, I caught the elevator to the top to explore the 360 degree panoramas.

On the first floor are colorful murals that depict life in California which include scenes associated with agriculture and banking.  Recently, there were more colorful murals that were discovered on the second floor and this is now open for visitors to enjoy.   The mural project, commissioned in 1933, included about twenty-five artists to create daily life scenes in the style of Diego Rivera.  Political ideals were introduced within these works of art which resulted in protests and picketing.

Following a zig-zag of streets, I continued strolling towards the shoreline where I arrived at Fisherman’s Wharf.  I spent a few moments watching the street performers near Pier 39.  Talented entertainers mesmerized their audience with magic tricks, feats of juggling and short stints at stand-up comedy.  It was the first time I had ever seen a silver painted mime and was amazed at his talent of standing so still that I was convinced he was a statue. 

Pier 39 is also home to the famous local sea lions.  Their barks can be heard from blocks away and they are so fascinating to watch.  Fighting for a spot on chain tethered blocks of wood, they compete for an opportunity to sunbathe.   Following the 1989 earthquake, droves of sea lions took over K-Dock and in 2009, nearly 1700 of these lovely creatures resided along the waterfront.

I couldn’t take enough photos of these sassy sea lions at Pier 39.

The view of Coit Tower and the Transamerica Pyramid from Fisherman’s Wharf

Looking out towards Alcatraz from Fisherman’s Wharf.

The remains of the Pier 43 Ferry Arch stand scorched after a fire in 1998.

The famous Fisherman’s Wharf of San Francisco sign

Castagnola’s has been offering seafood and Italian dishes since 1916 and is the oldest restaurant on the wharf.

The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company opened in San Francisco in 1852.  I couldn’t resist visiting the original ice cream and chocolate shop located at 900 North Point, Suite 52.

A visit to San Francisco is not complete without a ride on the San Francisco Trolley.

Lombard Street is the “crookedest street” in the world with eight hairpin turns.

A look at Lombardi Street from the top of the turn.

A view of Alcatraz from Pacific Heights

By the end of the day, I found myself making my way back to the Palace Hotel.  By chance,  I happened to slip into one of San Francisco’s historical bars, the Iron Horse at 25 Maiden Lane.  Opened in 1954, this San Fran institution has served such notorious celebrities to include “Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin,Sammy Davis, Jr., and Liberace. Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio had their wedding reception here.”

I can’t wait to book another trip to San Francisco in the near future to compare photos from over 20 years ago.  It will be extraordinary to see how things have changed and what has remained the same.

Have you been to San Francisco?  What were some of your favorite sights and attractions?   I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for scrolling through my photos of San Fran and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

  • Chinatown
  • Transamerica Pyramid
  • Coit Tower
    • Admission Fee:  Elevator entrance fees for Adult: $9 per person; Senior (62+): $6;  Youth 12 – 17: $6; Children (5 – 11): $3 and Children (4 and under): Free;  Discounts available for San Francisco Residents
    • Hours:  Daily from 10AM to 6PM; Last ticket for the elevator is 5:30PM. Holiday closures on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
    • Amenities:  Parking, restrooms, docent-led tours (available daily from 4 – 8 people lasting 30 – 40 minutes; $5 per person for the second floor and $8 per person for second floor and murals; These rates do not include the elevator entrance fees)
    • Scenic View:   Amazing views of the city of San Francisco and the Bay
    • Length of Visit:  1 hour
    • Tips for Your Visit:  Don’t miss the murals in the lobby.
  • Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Pier 39
  • Alcatraz
    • Admission Fee:  Because there are several tour packages available, visit www.alcatrazcruises.com for the most recent prices for each tour option.
    • Hours:  Departures available every half hour starting at 8:30AM.  Holiday closures include Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
    • Amenities:  Ferry transportation to the island; food is available on the ferry but not Alcatraz Island;  Limited restrooms available on Alcatraz Island.
    • Scenic View:   Amazing views of the city of San Francisco and the Bay
    • Length of Visit:  varies, depending on the tour option you choose
    • Tips for Your Visit:  Purchase your tickets ahead of time as tickets may sell out in advance. There are additional options for visiting Alcatraz, such as the Evening Tours, Behind the Scenes Tour and the Angel Island-Alcatraz Island tour.  Special programs led by the rangers are available on a daily basis (check the website).  Visit the website for a list of exhibits.
  • Pier 43 Ferry Arch
  • Fisherman’s Wharf Sign
  • San Francisco Trolley
  • Lombard Street

Where to Stay:

Sheraton Palace Hotel, now The Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA  94105
Telephone:  415 512 1111

Where to Eat:

  • Castagnola’s – The restaurant is known for its soups served in bread bowls.  Select the clam chowder bread bowl or the lobster bisque bread bowl.
  • Ghirardelli Chocolate Company – The world famous hot fudge sundae is the best seller.
  • Sam Wo Restaurant – I highly recommend the fish jook (also known as Congee is a Cantonese rice porridge, usually served with meat), chicken with bok choy and their delicious wonton soup.
  • Sotto Mare for its infamous cioppino, an Italian-American seafood stew that reminds me a bit of Spain’s paella.

Where to Drink: 

  • Iron Horse – Their signature drinks include the James Bond Martini, Goldfinger, Alice in Wonderland, Tiki Temple and Happy Fortune.
  • Absinthe Brasserie & Bar – This cute little bar in Hayes Valley has been serving drinks since 1998.  Don’t miss their champagne and caviar kit or try one of their absinthes.
  • Charmaine’s Rooftop Bar & Lounge – Located in Mid-Market at the Proper Hotel, this gorgeous bar has gorgeous views of San Fran, fire pits, heat lamps and specialty drinks with cute names (Fifi the Flea)

What to Read: 

  • Cool Grey City of Love by Gary Kamiya
  • San Francisco Stories by Jack London
  • Zodiac by Robert Graysmith
  • Alcatraz-1259 by William Baker

Photo Guide for San Francisco: 

  • Aquatic Park is the best place to photograph San Francisco’s waterfront
  • Broadway Street in North Beach for its neon signs and was formerly known as the area’s “red light district”
  • Chinatown is absolutely amazing for taking photos of America’s oldest Chinatown.
  • Coit Tower for 360 degree views of San Francisco and the harbor
  • de Young Museum Observation Deck located at Golden Gate Park is perfect for panoramic photos of the city.  Bypass the line to enter the museum to reach the Hamon Observation Tower to take your photos.
  • Fort Point is a decommissioned military base on the waterfront which provides outstanding views of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge
  • The Marin Headlands is one of the best places to photograph the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge
  • Treasure Island for spectacular views of San Francisco’s skyline
  • See the entire city of San Francisco from Twin Peaks

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Hanauma Bay, Hawai’i: A Snorkler’s Paradise

011007 Haunauma Bay from the Parking Lot

It was a gorgeous day in Hawaii and my best friend Melissa suggested that we visit Hanauma Bay State Park.  Known for its sensational views (from the parking  lot) and spectacular snorkeling, we dressed for the beach, jumped in the car and made our way to Hanauma Bay.

Hanauma Bay State Park is a natural reserve on the Hawaiian island of Oahu located in the Pacific Ocean.  Since 1967, it has been a protected marine life conservation area and in 2002, the marine center was built to continue the efforts to support its health and protect the reefs and sea creatures.  This beautiful state park and beach continues to rank #1 in the list of Top Beaches.

It was once estimated that over three million travelers visited Hanauma Bay each year and ecologists claim that the bay had suffered in the process.  As a result, there have been limitations assessed on the number of daily visitors and they have placed restrictions on the handling of the sea life as well as the touching of the coral in the bay.

playing in Haunauma Bay

The tram was full, so we opted to walk down to the bay and agreed to take the tram on our return.  We were happy for the early start knowing that the bay is such a popular stop for visitors to Oahu.

Since the 1980’s Hanauma Bay has been one of the most visited tourist attractions on the island.   It is an excellent location to see the abundant species of fish for which Hawaii is known.

Prior to entering the state park, we were required to watch the 9-minute video to learn more about the marine life and to understand the park’s efforts to protect and preserve the fascinating sea life within the bay.

Snorkling in haunama Bay

We picked up our snorkeling equipment, found an open space on the beach to drop off our beach chairs and towels before exploring the crystal clear waters.

There are approximately 400 known species of fish as well as green sea turtles at Hanauma Bay.  It is the perfect location for experienced or inexperienced snorkelers of all ages  due  to its  calm  waters and sea life.011012 Haunauma Bay2From the parking lot of Hanauma Bay, there is an amazing view of the crater which was said to have been created over 30,000 years ago.   The 2,000 square foot crescent beach is known for its beautiful white sand and its waters for its abundance of sea life.

Hawaii in itself is one of the most beautiful places in the world.  It is because of the conservation of Hanauma Bay and many of the natural sites that future generations will be able to enjoy what is today, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hawaii.

Where is your favorite snorkeling destination in the world?  Have you had the opportunity to visit Hanauma Bay?  I would be happy to hear about your experience on the island of Oahu if you would kindly leave a message in  the comments section below!  Many thanks for checking out my blog post on Hanauma Bay!  May you have many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve
7455 Kalanianaole Highway
Honolulu, Hawaii  96825
Telephone:  808 396 4229

  • Admission Fee: $7.50 to enter the park and parking is an additional charge of $1
  • Hours:  Open Wednesday to Monday from 6AM to 7PM, closed Tuesday
  • Amenities (for an additional charge):  Snorkel Equipment Rental, Locker Rental, Tram Ride, Snack Bar, Gift Shop, Transportation from Waikiki Hotels
  • Scenic View:   Check out the gorgeous views from the parking lot.  In addition, beautiful view of the ocean from the beach and there are some great underwater views of fish and sea turtles.
  • Length of the Tour:  Varies, depending on the activities you select for the day
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Arrive early to avoid the crowds.  An early start will also allow for a  more enjoyable snorkeling experience because once it becomes crowded, the visibility is limited. Large backpacks will not fit in the lockers and you can bring your own snacks and drinks.

Where to Stay:

Aqua Bamboo Waikiki
2425 Kuhio Avenue
Waikiki, Honolulu, Hawaii  96815
Telephone: 808 922 7777

Where to Eat:

Duke’s Waikiki
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
2335 Kalakaua Avenue, #116
Waikiki, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Telephone: 808 922 2268

I love the flavors at Duke’s so we decided to share some Pupus (Appetizers) to include the Ahi Sashimi, Duke’s Nachos and the Panko-fried Calamari.

What to Eat: 

  • Kalua Pig:  Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
  • Poi:  Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch.  This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
  • Poke:  Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read: 

  • Hanauma Bay:  A Marine Guide to Hawaii’s Most Popular Nature Preserve by John P. Hoover
  • Exploring Hanauma Bay: Revised and Expanded by Susan Scott

Photo Guide for Oahu:

  • Diamond Head Crater Hike:  360 degree views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean
  • Hanauma Bay:  underwater photos, photo of the bay from the parking lot
  • Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Park scenery
  • Kualoa Regional Park and Mokoli’l Island: Palm trees and the triangle island
  • The Pineapple Plantations:  Take the inland route from Waikiki to the North Shore and stop at Dole Plantation
  • Sunset Beach and Pipeline:  the North Shore is the perfect location for surfing, so you will find LOTS of surfers here.
  • Turtle Bay:  surfers and sunsets
  • Waikiki Wall and Beach:  palm trees, surfers and highrise buildings, sunrises and sunsets

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Visiting the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Planning our visit to the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on The Big Island, we decided to take the short hike to the Kilauea’iki Crater, explore the lava tubes and hike over massive acres of black molten rock to watch the red hot lava dripping out into the sea.

We began our visit to the park with a stop at the Kilauea Visitor Center to check out the scheduled activities for the day and to pick up a map of the area.  The park offers guests the opportunity to explore several unique geological features and is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Millions of tourists visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park each year to explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes and rare vegetation that can only be found here.

Here is a photographic overview of my visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park:

Steam Vents in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Volcanic Crater

Cracked Lava, Hawai’i

Inside a Lava Tube

Volcanic Crater

Warning:  Walking on Lava

Hiking on the Lava

Yards of Solidified Lava

Watching the Hot Lava Dripping into the Ocean

Seeing a Beautiful Rainbow during our Hike

It was amazing to see the hot volcanic lava dripping into the ocean.  Just the thought of standing on an active volcano was absolutely surreal.  So many thoughts ran through my mind as we walked out for the viewing and then on our way back to the car, only because there is no guarantee that the volcano would not erupt at any moment.  I can tell you, I certainly wasn’t too sad to leave in the event that it may actually happen.

Have you visited Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park?  What was your favorite experience?  I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reviewing my photos of my visit and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
1 Crater Rim Drive
Hawaii National Park, HI  96718
Telephone:  808 985 6101

  • Admission Fee:  $25 per private vehicle (capacity of 15 persons or less); $20 per motorcycle (valid for 7 days); $12 per Bicycle (valid for 7 days); $12 per walk-in pedestrian (valid for 7 days);  $12 per person for groups of 16 persons and over
  • Hours:  The park is open 24 hours daily, year round. K?lauea Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Amenities:  The Volcano House Hotel offers in-room WiFi and cellular reception throughout the park is good with the exception of the backcountry);  lost and found services; website for information about the current volcano conditions and area closures;
  • Guided Tours and Conservatory Map:  Ranger Programs and Guided Tours are available for large groups.  Map available online or at the ranger stations
  • Length of the Tour:  1 full day at minimum
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Pets are permitted only in designated areas.  Drones are not permitted;  Wear layers when visiting the volcano summits as weather is 12 to 15 degrees cooler at the top.  Download a map of the park by visiting the national park’s website.

Where to Stay:

Volcano Rainforest Retreat
11-3832 Twelfth Street
Volcano, HI  96785
Telephone:  808 985 8696 or 800 550 8696

Where to Eat:

Café Ono
Big Island of Hawaii
19-3834 Old Volcano Road
Volcano Village, Hawaii  96785
Telephone:  808 985 8979

This restaurant came highly recommended so we were excited to visit this award-winning café.  I ordered the 4 cheese spinach crustless quiche combo which was served with soup, garden salad, garlic bread or brown rice.

What to Eat: 

  • Kalua Pig:  Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
  • Poi:  Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch.  This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
  • Poke:  Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

  • Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell
  • A Hawaiian Reader
  • The Spell of Hawaii
  • Unwritten Literature of Hawaii:  The Sacred Songs of the Hula, by Nathaniel B. Emerson
  • The Light in the Crevice Never Seen, by Haunani-Kay Trask
  • Waikiki: A History of Forgetting & Remembering, by Gaye Chan

Photo Guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:

  • Kilauea at night (go about 300 yards north of the museum along the crater rim trail to avoid the crowds)
  • Kilauea Iki Trail
  • The stars over Kilauea
  • Lava
  • Nene birds
  • Steam vents on the drive in to Kilauea
  • Sunset

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.