Harrah’s, the Perfect Location on the Las Vegas Strip

26 February 201921 September 2024

Vegas is a melting pot of visitors and residents that makes it a city where practically anything can happen. You can see a wide range of fashion from upscale, designer gowns to tube tops and flip flops. It is a town that attracts wannabe rock stars, but none so flamboyant as the costumed KISS impersonators that I had to pass each day to reach our hotel room at Harrah’s. I give them a lot of credit with their perfect makeup, 80’s wigs, silver moonboots, but sporting a thong? Now I’ve seen it all.

After grabbing a cup of coffee at Starbucks, I waited for a group of my friends at our designated meeting place, the statue of the cartoonish casino winners. Harrah’s would be my home for the next five nights and it turned out to be the perfect locale along the Las Vegas Strip. I was provided a room on the 19^th floor that overlooked the pool with the mountains in the distance. The hotel and casino are centrally located so most attractions are within walking distance. The bus station stops here as well which made it easy to catch transportation down to Fremont Street.

Harrah’s also provides quite a few eateries that will fit anyone’s budget. On the first level was Starbucks which we frequented each morning, a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (upscale), Oyster Bar (casual), and Fulton Street Food Hall (casual) – which had pizza by the slice. Upstairs we stopped by Toby Keith’s I Love this Bar and Grill for a couple of strong drinks where they serve southern cooking and hot country music. IcePan for dessert includes custom made ice cream. Harrah’s buffet, Flavors is also located on the first level.

Harrah’s has locations throughout the US and provides their patrons a generous rewards system. Once becoming a member of their Total Rewards program, there are perks for playing, dining, shopping or staying at select casinos and resorts.

Later that week I was invited to enjoy a day at the pool where I was provided VIP drink service and use of a cabana. I felt like I was a superstar with so much attention. It was a beautiful sunny day and I was so appreciative to have been included in the anniversary festivities.

Have you stayed at Harrah’s in Las Vegas or at one of the hotels other locations? 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 stay at Harrah’s in Las Vegas and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Where to Stay:

Harrah’s Las Vegas
3475 South Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 800 214 9110

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

The view from our hotel room

Harrah’s Pool

Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas

19 February 201921 September 2024

The colossal palace complex of Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas represents the opulence and luxury that only the Romans could have envisioned. Adorned with Romanesque statues and artwork, this fine resort could have easily been a summer home for the rulers of Rome, one of the world’s greatest empires. The mega-resort first opened in the 1960s with its over-the-top reconstruction of the European city’s most memorable monuments, statues and fountains.

The Trevi Fountain outside of the Forum Shops

Caesar’s Palace would not adequately represent Rome without its Colosseum offering entertainment from such acts as singers Celine Dion and Elton John as well as comedian headliner Jerry Seinfeld. The high-tech version of Rome’s ancient arena seats 41,000 with state of the art lighting systems and sound. While some may not be able to afford the venue’s entertainment, there are a group of animatronic statues that provide free hourly shows called the Fall of Atlantis & Festival Fountain Show.

The main dining attractions of Caesar’s Palace include three star Michelin chef, Guy Savoy’s restaurant, Gordon Ramsay’s Hell Kitchen (opened January 2018) and Pronto by Giada (opened early 2018). In addition to its dining and nightlife, it is no surprise that the Forum Shops are also a major attraction within the casino hotel.

Shopping at Caesar’s Palace

The most dramatic entrance into the Forum Shops is through The Strip. Gargantuan statues and a grand staircase welcome the shopping goddess to over 160 boutique shops to include expensive designers such as Fendi and Armani as well as specialty boutiques and a three story H&M.

Caesar’s Palace Fountains

After a day of shopping, a girl’s best friend is the Qua Baths and Spa. In addition to its spa services, a $25 day pass at the Roman Baths includes the opportunity to feel the heat in the cedar sauna or enjoy the cold of the arctic room.

Late into the night, the resort’s OMNIA nightclub, Pure, is known for its patio providing a view of the strip as well as its DJs spinning the latest chartbusters. Alternatively, for a laid-back atmosphere, drinks at the Spanish Steps are a must.

What is your favorite Las Vegas hotel and why? I would love to hear about your experiences in Las Vegas, especially if you stayed at the luxurious Caesar’s Palace, so leave a message in the Comment section below! Happy Travels!

Caesar’s Palace is located at 3570 Las Vegas Boulevard South. For more information about the resort, you can contact their website at www.caesarspalace.com.

Replica of the Trevi Fountain in Rome

Fall of Atlantis & Festival Fountain Show

Aquarium with Fish Swimming among Roman Ruins

Mosaic Like Artwork Depicting Roman Chariot Racing

Romanesque Statues

Replica of the Parthenon of Rome

Replica of one of Rome’s Famous Fountains

Beautiful Fountains of Caesar’s Palace

Exploring Venice in Vegas at the Venetian

29 January 201921 September 2024

Italy is well represented in Las Vegas with its themed hotels. You have Caesar’s Palace from Rome, the Bellagio from The Lakes Region and the Venetian from none other than the beautiful city of Venice. It’s only obvious that Venice would come to Vegas with its history of hosting the first casino. And you can’t forget about Venice’s past reputation for secrets and scandals.

We could not believe the view from our suite with a full size view of the glittering Trump Tower. The gorgeous staterooms decorated in leather and cherry were comfortable and expansive and I would have been happy to have stayed in and ordered their decadent room service.

The Venetian Hotel replaced the Sands which was made famous by the Rat Pack and the filming of the movie “Ocean’s Eleven”. After it was imploded in the mid-1990’s, the area was ready for a new hotel in town! In came the Venetian and a bit of Venice was brought to Vegas! With a stroll over the Rialto, a view of the Campanile (Bell Tower) from the Doge’s Palace and of course, the canals that provide gondola rides. As you stroll through the Palazzo, you will continue to catch glimpses of other Venetian attractions such as the clock tower that have a strong resemblance to Italy’s Venice.

But it’s the Palazzo that is the main attraction as the canals meander through the shopping area. Bridges cross over throughout the galleria and provide a network for the gondolas to pass under as lover’s kiss in hopes of good luck in their relationship. Such a romantic tradition! So as you watch the gondolas or decide to float along the canals for yourself, the setting will help you feel like you are truly in the city of Venice.

So what about all of the celebrity sighting you hear about in Las Vegas? If you came here looking for stars, search no further than the Venetian as this venue hosts the famous London-based wax museum, Madame Tussaud’s. Whether it’s sports, television or music, you can see today’s superstars such as Miley Cyrus, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Tiger Woods and George Clooney all waxed up and looking real. It will feel like going to an A-list party!

You may need to take a break from all of that celebrity action and re-energize at one of the restaurants at the Venetian. Make your way over to the Taqueria Canonita and enjoy a taste of Mexican Soul Food. And if you happen on Happy Hour (3PM to 6PM and later starting at 9PM to close), you may want to order a $5 margarita. There is plenty of seating, but if you want to relax along the canal and watch the gondoliers cautiously paddle their passengers through the waterways, the restaurant recommends that you book a table in advance.

SUSHISAMBA is a colorful restaurant that provides a unique dining experience, with an eclectic assortment of dishes and a generous happy hour of $6 caipirinhas which starts at 4PM to 7PM from Sunday to Friday. Choose from exotic sushi rolls, sushi or other exclusive fish made with a Peruvian, Brazilian flare. My favorite dishes are the Yellowtail Sashimi Ceviche and the Miso-Marinated Chilean Sea Bass, Roasted Organic Vegetables and Oshinko! And of course I cannot break myself away from ordering the Classic Mojito!

There is a wide, diverse selection of restaurants that are located near or within the Venetian. On Restaurant Row, one can find Aquaknox (Seafood), B&B Ristorante (Italian), Cafe Presse (Coffee and Pastries), db Brasserie (French), Delmonico Steakhouse (Steak) and Public House (Gastropub).

Restaurants are also located at the Grand Canal Shoppes for a scenic view of the gondolas. These eateries include Buddy V’s for American-Italian cuisine, Canaletto for Italian, Carlo’s Bakery, Casanova for Mediterranean, Grimaldi’s for NY-style pizza, i (heart) burgers, Mercato della Pescheria for Italian Seafood, French restaurant Paris Baguette, Table 10 (New American), Tintoretto Restaurant & Bakery, Trattoria Reggiano and Zeffrino for Italian Seafood.

After spending the afternoon at the Canyon Ranch SpaClub, check out Canyon Ranch Cafe or Canyon Ranch Grill. Or if you are having a difficult time breaking away from the casino, there are several options available here as well, such as CUT (Modern American), Hong Kong Cafe (Asian), and JuiceFarm (Organic)

The Food Court is another option for fast, quick culinary offerings or B&B Burger and Beer, Lagasse’s Stadium (American), Noodles Asia, OTTO Enoteca Pizzeria, and Rockhouse (American) while more upscale dining locations include Carnevino (Steak), Grand Lux Cafe (Global Cuisine) with two locations in the Venetian and the Palazzo, LAVO (Italian), Morels French Steakhouse & Bistro. TAO Asian Bistro and Yardbird Southern Table & Bar. The Venezia Tower includes French Restaurant Bouchon on the 10th floor.

Poolside one can order from two of Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant’s such as Riva at the Venetian Pool Deck and Solaro at the Palazzo Pool.

There is an exorbitant number of night clubs, bars and lounges in Las Vegas, so should one choose to stay within the properties of the Venetian, there are certainly a great number of options, some which are open 24 hours such as Bellini Bar and Fusion Latin Mixology Bar. Double Helix Wine Bar, Laguna Champagne Bar, LAVO Restaurant Lounge, Rockhouse, and The Lounge at SUSHISAMBA have set hours of operation as well as the TAO NightClub and LAVO Casino Club.

With Venice, all the world is a stage as you cross the Rialto or glimpse through the architecture of the Doge’s Palace, you never know where it may take you. So keep your eyes wide open and you may even catch a glimpse of your Cassanova.

What has been your experience visiting The Venetian in Venice? I would love to hear about your trip to Las Vegas if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section. List your favorite restaurants, hotels, casinos and more! Many thanks for reading about my visit to The Venetian and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Las Vegas’ Paris Hotel: Spending New Year’s in Luxury

19 January 201921 September 2024

My great friend, Peter surprised me with a New Year’s weekend trip to Las Vegas where we stayed at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino. He had recently sold the small biotech company that he owned, so there was so much to celebrate. We had both visited Las Vegas many times in the past as it is a popular destination for pharmaceutical events, so the idea of sitting among the indoor cafes sipping café au laits instead of rushing around to all of the venues was a delightful change to our schedule.

We took a later flight for the added drama of seeing the city lights at night. A short hop from San Francisco, we would land in a little over an hour where he had a limousine waiting and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot for the ride. Approaching Las Vegas Boulevard, I could not take my eyes off of the Eiffel Tower, watching it come into view until the limo finally arrived. Standing at the base, I was in awe of this monumental replica, half the size of the original and all lit up like the City of Light.

Strolling through the resort we couldn’t help but notice the reproductions of famous Parisian landmarks. We reached our hotel suite with a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower and after having admired the Las Vegas Strip from our room, I noticed an envelope addressed to us on the table. I thought it was another surprise from Peter, but soon realized that we were offered two nighttime passes for the Eiffel Tower Experience, compliments of the Paris Hotel. We called to secure a time which left us with a couple of hours to explore the hotel and take a photo of the tower from its base.

We arrived fifteen minutes early and congregated at the elevator where there were several others waiting to make the ride up to the 46^th floor. Adequately bundled up, I found myself rubbing my hands together in anticipation of the windy, cold weather. Although Las Vegas sits in the middle of a desert, the temperature drops at night bringing with it a chill in the air. We boarded the lift and upon reaching the top, we were afforded spectacular views of colorful lights that seemed to go on for miles. We stayed long enough to watch the Bellagio fountain from this vantage point and agreed that we should stop by the next day to arrange for a front row seat from one of the restaurants. It was getting late and our noses were growing cold when we decided to return back to our rooms and settle in for the night.

We could not have asked for a more beautiful morning nor a more beautiful view as we ordered breakfast at Mon Ami Gabi. Hearty crepes with a side of steak frites could not have been a more perfect Parisian meal before setting off for a visit to the Bellagio. Planning a leisurely day ahead, Peter wanted to watch the fountains from inside and the only thing on my mind was Jean Philippe Patisserie. It has become my obsession when I visit Vegas to take note of the new creations made from this bodacious boutique confectionery. With tickets for the production of “O” later that evening at 4PM, we knew it would be wise to confirm the theater entrance ahead of time. We spent the rest of the day at The Bellagio with the exception of coming back to the hotel to prepare for the show.

Peter made reservations at the Italian restaurant, Martarano’s, located inside of the Paris Hotel. We started out with the Fried Calamari Bubzy spiced with a sweet and spicy chili sauce, which was the perfect heat for me, while Peter required more spice thinking the sauce was a little too sweet for his liking. In addition, we shared a Homemade Mozzarella & Tomato Salad which is similar to a Caprese Salad without the balsamic vinegar. The mozzarella melted in my mouth with its freshness while the basil added a whole new level of umami. Our main entrees included the Bucatani Carbonara, the perfect pasta with pancetta, cream, black pepper and Parmigiano-Reggiano while Peter decided on the Veal Marsala made with Florio Sicilian marsala wine sauce with mushrooms.

We realized we had quite a while before bringing in the New Year, so we stopped by La Cave so I could pick up a bottle of wine that we could open while I freshened up and Peter checked his emails. We are not the nightclub types nor do we gamble, so our plans were to stop by the Napoleon’s Lounge for a drink and roam the casino to people watch, which was the perfect night for the occasion. Gorgeous gowns and fancy dresses were accompanied by men in suits with some in tuxes. The crowded casino and lobby proved everyone to be in high spirits ready to carry the night into the early hours of the morning.

The bartender at the Bellagio invited us to stop by earlier, so we decided to take him up on the invitation, order a bottle of champagne and place bets on what time we would finally make it back to the room. The night was vibrant, which gave us a new level of energy and we had so much to celebrate. We discussed our plans for our last day in Vegas and I was looking forward to my massage at the Paris Spa. We were also excited about spending a day back in San Diego where we first met to celebrate a friend’s birthday and enjoy a day of hiking, which has always been our favorite activity. The New Year was already promising to be a wonderful start to our relationship, new jobs and a crazy year of travel. And as the countdown began, we had already decided to make this the best year possible. Happy New Year!!

What did you think about the Paris Las Vegas? Have you had the opportunity to visit and if so, did you enjoy any of the amenities? I would be interested in hearing about your stay if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. If you would like to know more about the Paris Las Vegas, I would be so happy to answer any questions you have if you would leave a message in the comments section as well. Many thanks for reviewing my experience at the Paris Hotel and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
3655 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 877 796 2096

Eiffel Tower: The main attraction of the hotel is the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck. Built half the size of France’s world-famous landmark, visitors can board the elevator 46 stories high for spectacular views of the Las Vegas strip.

Nightly Light Show: From sunset to midnight, the Eiffel Towerlights up every 30 minutes in similar fashion to the Paris landmark.

Shop the Paris Hotel: Reminiscent of the lovely neighborhoods of Paris, the Las Vegas shops along Le Boulevard are set along cobblestone walkways.

Book a Spa Treatment: Voie Spa & Salon offers a wide variety of services including massages, facials, manicures & pedicures.

Where to Stay:

Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
3655 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 877 796 2096

With over 2700 rooms, there are several options to meet your budget.

Where to Eat:

Nobu: Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino
3655 Las Vegas Blvd. South
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 702 946 4007

My favorite is the lobster shiitake salad and I always save room for dessert…the Yuzu Cheesecake.

What to Eat:

There are several restaurants at Paris Las Vegas, but I also like to venture out for a cheap buffet in the Old Vegas district.

What to Read:

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, by Hunter S. Thompson
Leaving Las Vegas, by John O’Brien

Photo Guide for Las Vegas:

“Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign
The Paris Hotel Entrance and Eiffel Tower
The Luxor Walkway and Sphinx
The Excalibur Hotel
New York New York Hotel
The Arc de Triomphe at the Paris Hotel
The Eiffel Tower view from the Bellagio
The Bellagio Fountains and its Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The Rose Covered Entrance to the Mayfair Supper Club at Bellagio
The Linq Promenade with views of the High Roller and Inside the High Roller
The Venetian Stairs and Lobby
Gondola Ride at the Venetian
The Venetian Bridge
The Stairs at Wynn Las Vegas
Neon Museum signs
Fremont East District sign
Retro Vegas Sign
Abbey Road
The Empty Club
Fremont District Murals
Red Rock Canyon’s Red Rocks and Joshua Trees
Valley of Fire State Park – Slot Canyon, Fire Wave, Mouse Tank Road, Pastel Pink Canyon
Seven Magic Mountains
Mrs. Coco’s Cafe (book in advance)
Hoover Dam
Canyon West (about 2 hours from Vegas)

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

Welcome to Las Vegas!!

12 January 201921 September 2024

The dazzle and bright lights of Las Vegas are what make the city come alive, but it’s the sound of the coins and the sight of cash payouts that keep visitors coming back. I remember my initial visit to Sin City when I felt so overwhelmed with its sensory overload. I caught my first glimpse of Vegas at night. The thrill of a civilization magically appearing in the middle of a desert was quite fascinating.

Years later and I think back to all of the trips I have made since my first and the changes that have come about over the years. New hotels, restaurants and night clubs, updated shows, attractions and headliners guarantee a new experience during each visit.

With so much to do in Vegas, where does one start?

Gambling

The obvious reason to visit Las Vegas is gambling. Each hotel and resort has its own venue, deals and incentives for visiting their properties. They offer discounts on shows, restaurants and nightclubs should tourists decide to take a break from the one armed bandits.

For many, gambling is the only draw for a Las Vegas trip with the hopes of hitting the jackpot. I was thrilled to learn that there is actually a slot dictionary (www.worldcasinodirectory) so I could decide If I wanted to “Hammer a Machine” or “Hit and Run”. I caught up on the lingo so I could be ready to brag about my “Big Hit” or “Jackpot” and to let everyone know if I decided to take on “Big Bertha”. I was up for the challenge.

Saying “I Do”

Quite a few visits to Las Vegas are made to “tie the knot”. This city is one of the most popular locales in the United States to get married! Saying “I Do” in Las Vegas has its benefits. No blood tests, no waiting period…and no hassle. Couples can bypass the traditional wedding chapel to be married by a mobster, exchange vows in front of an alien or stand in the presence of Elvis. It is estimated that approximately 100,000 couples marry in Vegas each year and pay only a fraction of the cost. A variety of chapels will provide on the spot nuptials while luxury hotels offer over the top package deals with the glamour and prestige of vintage Las Vegas!

Dinner and A Show

There is no lack of extravagance when going out in Las Vegas for a dinner and a show! Restaurants opened by world famous chefs and headlining entertainers leave you with an assortment of options. Although making a decision may seem absolutely overwhelming, it is just as electrifying and irresistible all at once! The hotel concierge can recommend the perfect restaurant or suggest the new haute eatery that’s all the rage.

Free Attractions and Discount Meals

If splurging on a night out on the town is not your idea of excitement, there are several hotels that have free entertainment and discount diners with a more relaxed atmosphere and budget. The Fountains of Bellagio and the Sirens at TI are great family-friendly activities, while adults may choose to check out the Fremont Street Experience in Old Las Vegas. Each of the hotels were designed to attract visitors with their creative artistic displays which also offer a complimentary source of amusement.

Taking It Outside of Vegas

Located in the center of a dessert, Las Vegas is close to a variety of natural excursions that can be booked from this central location. Helicopter tours of the city or plane rides over the Grand Canyon are some of the most popular tours, yet a couple of the most expensive! Short day trips to Red Rock Canyon and the Hoover Dam are a perfect opportunity to slip away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a chance to explore a more peaceful side of the state.

Las Vegas is not to be overlooked as a perfect vacation regardless of whether one wants to gamble. The opportunities are endless within the city limits or for exploring the desert and its surroundings.

The following blog posts will give you a more in-depth overview of Las Vegas hotels and a few tips for maximizing your time during your stay.

Travel Tips for Las Vegas
Harrah’s, The Perfect Location on the Las Vegas Strip
Visiting Venice in Vegas

Have you been to Las Vegas? What are your reasons for visiting and do you have any tips you would like to share? I would love to hear about your experience if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below!! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

15 December 201724 November 2024

Leaving Portland, Maine, I wanted to take the beach route and visit the small community of Old Orchard Beach, Maine. With only 9,000 full-time residents, this vacation spot swells to nearly 75,000 in the summer.

Old Orchard Beach was first settled in 1657 by Salem native, Thomas Rogers naming it the Garden of the Sea. Planting grape vines and pear trees, it was the apple orchard that gave this beach its name.

Seven miles of beach extend from Scarborough to Saco and is one of the main attractions for tourists visiting Old Orchard Beach. Seaside condominiums, beach homes on stilts and charming bed-and-breakfasts cater to vacationers who come from the east coast, mid-Atlantic and Canada.

At the center of the beach is the famous Old Orchard Beach Pier, built in 1898, measuring 500 feet in length. Bars and restaurants were built on the pier and there was once a ballroom at its end known as the of the Pier Casino. While the casino no longer exists, there are shops, carnival food stalls and a club at the end of the Pier.

By the early 20th century, a seaside amusement park was built on four acres of beach property to promote tourism. It is one of the last parks along the east coast that remains in operation today.

Have you visited Old Orchard Beach on vacation? 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 quick stop in Old Orchard Beach and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stroll Orchard Beach and Visit the Pier

Where to Stay:

Old Orchard Beach Inn
6 Portland Avenue
Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064
Telephone: 207 934 5834

Where to Eat:

Joseph’s by the Sea
55 West Grand Avenue
Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064
Telephone: 207 934 5044

What to Eat:

Seafood, especially lobster

An Overview of Blog Posts from 2015

29 December 201522 July 2024

What a great year for travel! Here are some of my adventure blogs for 2015:

CARIBBEAN AND PORTS OF CALL:

Bermuda

Hamilton, Bermuda

Grand Cayman: Stingray City, Afternoon Drive on Grand Cayman, and Hell

Stingrays at Stingray City

Honduras: Untouched Beauty, Underwater Photographs

Gorgeous Honduras Beaches

EUROPE:

Wine Tasting in Tuscany

Wine Event at Fattoria il Poggio

UNITED STATES:

United States: Arizona

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Indian Settlement at Montezuma Castle National Monument

United States, California: San Francisco Downtown

San Francisco Chinatown

United States, California: San Francisco Golden Gate

San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge

United States: Louisiana

Mardi Gras

Celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans

United States, Michigan; Holland, Michigan

Tulips in Holland, Michigan

United States: Ohio

Cincinnati: Cincinnati Art Museum, The Divine Felines Exhibit

Recumbent Lion, Ptolomaic Period, 305 – 35BC, Reportedly from Giza

Fragmentary Inscription, Dynasty 25 – Dynasty 26, 670 – 650 BC

Cincinnati: Interview With Artist, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Jimi Jones

Cincinnati: Cincinnati Children’s Museum – Leonardo da Vinci Exhibit

Exploring the Genius of Leonardo da Vinci at the Cincinnati Children’s Museum

Cleveland: The Cleveland Art Museum, Pharaoh King of Egypt Exhibit

The Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art

An Egyptian Sarcophagus

Cleveland: Maltz Museum, Operation Finale

The Capture and Trial of Adolf Eichmann

The Holocaust Survivors

Columbus: Franklin Park Conservatory

Gorgeous Orchids at Franklin Park Conservatory

Amazing Butterflies at the Franklin Park Conservatory

Columbus: Inniswood

Having Fun with my New Camera

Springfield: Art Museum, Jason Morgan

Jason Morgan Artwork

Springfield: Art Museum, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Auschwitz Exhibit at The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Celebrating 70 Years of Auschwitz Closing

Sam and Ethel’s

Enjoying a Reuben at Sam & Ethel’s

Yellow Springs Brewery

Sampling craft beer at Yellow Springs Brewery

Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail

Hiking the Rim Trail

Ohio Christmas:

Columbus: Alum Creek Lights

Drive Thru Christmas Lights

PNC Lights: Cincinnati Zoo

A Tunnel of Lights

I hope you enjoyed this recap of my blog posts and travels for 2015. Stay tuned for more adventures to come in 2016! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

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

Freeport, Bahamas: A Welcome Change in Itinerary

5 March 201431 August 2024

Updated December 24, 2019

Hurricane Gilbert stunned the port towns of Cozumel and Playa del Carmen in 1988. Due to the devastating damage, our ship’s itinerary quickly changed to include the Bahamian ports of Nassau and Freeport over the next couple of months.

Our first stop was Freeport, located on Grand Bahama Island. This port offered many of the same amenities as our Yucatan Peninsula ports, so it was a perfect choice. It was such a great stop for visitors who were interested in watersports, sightseeing, shopping and dining.

Recent Hurricane Dorian, touching down in the Bahamas on August 24, 2019, was one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the Bahamas in over 65 years. Information provided throughout this post may require updating due to the recent event, so check for updated information online.

Since the early days of cruise vacations, the islands of the Bahamas have been a popular destination. During my days of working with the cruise lines, Freeport was a shopper’s paradise and offered a variety of activities in addition to its international restaurants.

One of Freeport’s most popular shopping plazas was the International Bazaar consistently bustling with tourists. I was surprised to learn that today, the Bazaar has become a ghost town, with limited shopping and dining, quite different than my past experience. Much of the change has been attributed to a history of hurricanes that have left the island in need of repair. A new shopping area has been developed near downtown Freeport and is much more visitor-friendly. For shoppers who are into haggling for a deal, check out the straw market to practice your bartering skills for souvenirs and merchandise.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

The bazaar, in keeping with the international theme, was divided into sections based on countries of the world. The architecture of each designated location included France, America, the Orient and Scandinavia. It remains one of the oldest shopping regions on the island.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

In front of the International Bazaar was the Bavarian Beer Garden which provided a wide range of lunch and dinner items. Continuing the tradition today, the menu highlights the following options: Conch salad, crab salad, fried chicken, lobster and French fries. With the best prices in the Bazaar, they also offer deals on tropical cocktails. Outdoor seating is perfect for people watching and enjoying the sunshine.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

Outside of the International Bazaar is a brightly colored directional sign that shows the distance from Freeport to popular worldwide destinations. It was the first time I had ever seen anything like it, so I thought it clever to know how far I was from some of the other islands as well as major cities including, New York: 1015 miles, Bimini: 53 miles, Montreal: 1323 miles and San Salvador: 285 miles.

UPDATE: The International Bazaar has closed due to the latest Hurricane Dorian, August 24, 2019.

A nearby attraction to the International Bazaar and Straw Market was the Bahamas Princess Resort and Casino. Built in the 1970’s the resort was later named the Bahamia Royal Oasis Resort. Sitting on close to 1,000 acres, which included a hotel with pools and casino, the property eventually closed due to hurricane and tropical storm damage.

The most recent information regarding the property came from a 2010 news story which reported that there was a fire at the Princess Towers, which started on the 7^th floor.

Another shopping area is the Port Lucaya marketplace and seems today to be much more popular than the International Bazaar. Activities from this port include scuba and snorkeling, boat tours and rentals, as well as an opportunity to swim with dolphins There is a shopping mall nearby which includes a drugstore and offers duty free deals on perfume and watches. If you are searching for cheaper prices for alcohol, your best bet is to head downtown.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

In the Port Lucaya shopping area, you can also find restaurants, but downtown is where you will find Bahamian local dishes and fast food restaurants such as Burger King and Pizza Hut.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

While in Port Lucaya, stop by to see the lighthouse. It has since been painted with red and white stripes and visible from the shopping area.

The town of Freeport has not been without its own natural disasters over the years. And although they have faced many challenges, they have worked together to make a huge comeback in the tourism industry. It was just a matter of time. I look forward to returning again soon to see how things have changed since my last visit to the beautiful islands of the Bahamas.

UPDATE: Port Lucaya reopened on October 18, 2019 after closing due to Hurricane Dorian.

Have you visited a port that has been affected by tropical storms and hurricanes? Have you since had an opportunity to see its restoration? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the Comments Section below and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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