La Jolla, California, the Jewel of the West Coast

1 April 20253 May 2025

After a long day of hiking in Poway, my friends and I decided to spend the rest of the afternoon in La Jolla, an exclusive, upscale suburb of San Diego. La Jolla means “the Jewel” in Spanish which is befitting its name with perfect weather year around, high end fashion boutiques, picturesque coastal bluffs and a scenic seaside.

My favorite hangout is La Jolla Cove, a sandy beach inlet with crystal clear water. This beautiful harbor is also home to sea lion colonies, pesky pelicans and gorgeous blue Brandt’s Cormorants. I enjoyed the time I spent at the beach, watching the noisy sea lions bark for a spot on the rocks. More often than not I would stroll out to the craggy coastline to watch them fight for their small piece of high end real estate. Along the beach, there is a small, cave-like cluster of rocks where I could have a much closer view of the seals. The opening into the cove provides a perfect frame for some amazing wildlife photography.

Often times I would check out the walking path above the cove where I could take in the dramatic cliffs. The stunning views of the shoreline and the cove below are the reason why some refer to this area as the California Riviera.

We decided to stop for drinks at Duke’s La Jolla, to enjoy the views of the upper level which look out into the Pacific. We thought about booking tickets at the La Jolla Playhouse or even playing a round of golf at Torrey Pines Golf Course, but since we were celebrating my friend Kristy’s birthday, we made reservations at George’s at the Cove which gave us plenty of time to stroll Prospect Street with its upscale shops and boutiques.

I never tire of the scenery at La Jolla cove, nor strolling the streets of its downtown. This is truly a Southern California paradise.

Have you had the opportunity to visit La Jolla, California? What are your favorite restaurants and shops? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave your message in the comments section below! Many Thanks for checking out my fun evening in La Jolla and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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

What to See and What to Do:

La Jolla Cove – stroll the beaches and check out the amazing wildlife at The Cove!

La Jolla By the Sea – explore the boutique shops and enjoy a fabulous meal in La Jolla!

Where to Stay:

La Jolla Cove Hotel & Suites
1155 Coast Blvd.
La Jolla, CA 92037
Telephone: 858 459 2621

Where to Eat:

George’s at the Cove
1250 Prospect Street
La Jolla, CA 92037
Telephone: 858 454 4244

Duke’s La Jolla
1216 Prospect Street
La Jolla, CA 92037
Telephone: 858 454 5888

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 La Jolla and nearby San Diego:

La Jolla Cove
Downtown La Jolla
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

Pacific Coast Highway Roadtrip

8 July 202319 April 2025

Having just returned from New Year’s in Las Vegas, Peter and I spent a relaxing week in San Francisco and made time to celebrate a friend’s birthday with a day of hiking and dinner in La Jolla. I was scheduled to go back to Ohio, but Peter suggested I extend my stay to include the weekend so that we could plan a road trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. We would start with a drive through the scenic towns of Santa Cruz, pass the scenic sanctuary of Big Sur and relax on our final night in Morro Bay before driving back up to San Francisco.

The charming town of Santa Cruz, translated as Holy Cross, is only 75 miles south of San Francisco and was the first stop on our PCH tour. Attracting surfers and artists, this laid-back beach community is known for its liberal activism and is home to the Resource Center for Nonviolence. We strolled along the boardwalk taking in the picturesque lagoon with its small sailboats stopping by for an afternoon lunch. Nearby attractions include the redwood forests and Monterey Bay, which is a protected marine sanctuary.

Visiting the casual coastal town of Monterey, we parked close to the pier where we enjoyed exploring the harbor, Cannery Row, San Carlos Beach Park and the world renowned aquarium. This seaside community has hosted a notable list of artists and writers who have made Monterey their muse. One of the most famous of these writers was John Steinbeck who celebrated the area of Monterey with his novels Cannery Row, East of Eden and Tortilla Flat.

Deciding at the last minute, we booked a room at the Monterey Bay Lodge realizing we needed more time to take in the fascinating attractions of this seaside village. Cannery Row is full of shops and restaurants and of course, I can’t miss a stop at Carmel Ridge Winery. The world renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, was also a must see on our list before traveling south.

Awaking early, we found the entrance to Monterey’s 17-mile drive on this overcast day. We paid the $10 entrance fee to enter the gated community of Pebble Beach with its glorious mansions and well-manicured golf courses. Driving through the scenic loop that passes through some of the most beautiful vistas, we made a few stops to photograph the gorgeous seascapes along the California coast. Originally known as the 18-mile drive, this section of roadway was opened in 1892 to horse and carriage traffic for scenic tours and remains a major attraction for visitors to Monterey.

The relaxing trek winds through rocky outcrops with a list of interesting sites that were identified on our map. Among the several notable overlooks are the Inn at Spanish Bay, Point Joe, Bird Rock, Seal Rock and Fanshell Beach, the Lone Cypress and Pescadaro Point. We traveled the full loop route which brought us back to the Pacific Grove Gate at Sunset Drive. From there we caught the PCH, passing through Carmel-by-the-Sea.

About twenty minutes outside of Carmel, we arrived at the Bixby Bridge, a familiar landmark along the scenic highway providing entrance into Big Sur. The steel structure seemed to sprout out from the craggy rocks overlooking the Pacific Ocean standing 280 feet high. Recognized as one of the tallest single-span bridges in the world, we carefully crossed the impending concrete structure continuing south on State Route 1.

Stepping out of the car at one of the many overlooks along the route, we took a moment to enjoy the silence of our surroundings. I felt a sense of solace watching the waves crest over the scattered boulders along the coast. The air had a smell of salt and earth.

Before us was a stretch of protected seashore boasting some of the most scenic landscapes of the western coast, making it one of the most popular vacation destinations in California.

Big Sur is credited for the emergence of the “New Age” era and is the location of the first Zen monastery built outside of Asia, the Tassajara. The inspirational scenery of this location was so beautiful that it attracted movie stars and millionaires. John Kerouac immortalized Big Sur in his writings and a variety of movies were filmed here to include the 1965 film “The Sandpiper” starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, “Zandy’s Bride” and “The Stranger in Big Sur”.

In 1944, Orson Welles and Rita Hayworth purchased a cabin here, which is now the Nepenthe, a popular restaurant clinging to the coast about 800 feet above the coastline.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that within Big Sur are nine state parks. Detouring off of the main byway, we entered Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. We noticed a short hike that led to a secluded waterfall that claimed to offer another unforgettable scenic overlook. The well-marked waterfall trail wove back under the roadway and opened up to an endless view of the Pacific. Soon thereafter, the waterfall eked out between two monoliths resulting in a steady stream deposited onto the light sandy beach below.

The sun was beginning to set as we passed Hearst Castle. We agreed that we would continue our drive to Morro Bay where we would be staying the last night of our weekend and would come back to the castle the next day. This would allow us a full day to explore the residence instead of a couple of hours.

Upon arriving in the immaculate seaside location of Cambria, I felt as though we were entering a quaint little town in Germany. A charming stop along the Pacific coast, we took the opportunity to walk along Moonstone Beach were we spent about an hour before departing for our final stop of the evening.

We watched the sun as it sank beneath the western sky, leaving its beautiful trademark of kaleidoscope color behind. By the time we had reached Morro, it was nightfall, so we found our hotel and turned in for the night.

Looking over the map, I noticed a couple of places we could fit in before visiting Hearst Castle and making our final departure back to San Francisco. We packed up the SUV and soon learned it was not difficult to find Morro Bay with its large rock-like formation dominating the harbor.

A sandy roadway reached the base of the monolith so we decided to check it out. Morro is the Spanish word for rock, so the naming of this “rock” would seem appropriate until we learned that this megalith is actually a volcanic plug and is one of a series known as the Nine Sisters.

One of my work colleagues overheard that I would be exploring the Pacific Coast Highway and suggested that I book a night at The Madonna Inn in the college town of San Luis Obispo. He had attended Cal Poly College of Engineering and fell in love with the town. So when we read the description of rooms at the Madonna Inn, we were intimidated by the customized themes of Love Nest, Caveman Room, Safari Room and Jungle Rock and decided that if we had time to visit, we would at least stop for a look.

Pismo Beach’s uncanny quietness seemed more like a ghost town than a vibrant beachside tourist attraction, but it may have been because we had arrived so early in the morning. Known as one of the Five Cities it had once laid claim as the “Clam Capitol of the World” because the clams were so abundant it drew thousands of clammers to the area. To commemorate this designation, Pismo hosts their yearly Clam Festival in October.

It would have been a couple of hours until the shops opened, so we agreed to make our way towards San Simeon, with our last stop at Hearst Castle. Experiencing the Pacific Coast Highway removed us from the hustle and bustle of our city lives and brought us to a place where we could once again enjoy the pure nature of coastal crags and prickly pines. I can’t wait to do it all over again.

Do you have any comments or suggestions regarding the Pacific Coast Highway and the small towns mentioned here? What was your experience taking this amazing scenic drive? I would love to hear about your favorite stops, restaurants, hotels, etc. if you would kindly leave your message in the comments section! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Pacific Coast Highway

Cannery Row
Monterey, CA

Carmel Ridge Winery Tasting Room
700 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Telephone 831 324 0035

Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Telephone: 831 648 4800

Admission Fee: Tickets for Adults are $49.95, Children (3 – 12, under the age of three are free): $29.95; Student (ages 13 – 17 or college ID): $39.95, and Seniors (ages 65+): $39.95
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5PM
Amenities: Animals & exhibits; café & restaurant, gift shops; interactive programs, daily shows and feedings, live cams and animal guides.
Scenic View: The large glass tanks provide amazing views of the fish and additional sea life.
Length of Visit: More than three hours
Tips for Your Visit: Allow yourself plenty of time to visit the aquarium. During the first month of December, the facility provides a reduced admission rate for locals, so the aquarium can be crowded at this time. Should you decide to go outside of the aquarium to explore Monterey, they will stamp your hand for re-entry. Knowledgeable docents provide additional information about the aquarium. You may want to check with AAA if you have a membership for discounted tickets.

17-Mile Drive
Pebble Beach, CA 93953

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
47555 Highway 1
Big Sur, CA 93920
Telephone: 831 667 0148

Admission Fee: $10 per day per car; camping fee is $30 per night
Hours: Open ½ hour before sunrise and ½ hour after sunset.
Amenities: Hiking trails, picnic areas, exhibits and programs, interpretive exhibits, nature & wildlife viewing.
Scenic View: An 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. A panoramic view of the ocean and miles of rugged coastline is available from the higher elevations along the trails east of Highway 1.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Contact the park ahead of time to see which trails are open as recently there have been several closings. Cell phone service is extremely limited in the park. Motorized aircraft are prohibited from flying below 1000 feet on the coast of Big Sur. Campfires are only permitted in the provided metal fire rings within the State Parks’ campgrounds. Firewood is available for purchase at the Pfeiffer Big Sur entrance kiosk and camp host sites for $12 per bundle and includes a firestarter.

Hearst Castle
750 Hearst Castle Road
San Simeon, CA 83452
Telephone: 800 444 4445

Admission Fee: $25 per adult and $12 per child ages 5 – 12; children under 5 are free
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 4PM
Amenities: Several tour options available, movie theater, gardens and restaurant
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from Hearst Castle.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours or more if you have booked multiple tours.
Tips for Your Visit: Booking a tour is one of the best ways to explore Hearst Castle. The location is magical during the Christmas season as the castle is decorated for the holidays.

Where to Stay:

The Madonna Inn
100 Madonna Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Telephone: 805 543 3000

Where to Eat:

Nepenthe Restaurant
48510 Highway One
Big Sur, CA
Telephone: 831 667 2345

I ordered the Rueben sandwich with thin-sliced pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on marbled rye.

What to Eat:

Calamari
Ceviche
Fish and Chips
Local Oysters
Oyster Shooters
Steamed Clams and Mussels

What to Read:

Big Sur, by Jack Kerouac
South on Pacific Coast Highway, by Gary Paul Corcoran
California, by Kevin Starr
L.A. Noir, by John Buntin

Photo Guide to the Pacific Coast Highway in California

Bixby Bridge
Carmel-by-the-Sea beach
Garrapata State Beach for its wild calla lily valley
Hearst Castle
McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Pfeiffer Beach shoreline
Point Sur Lighthouse

Entering the tunnel towards the overlook

More PCH scenery

Big Sur at Sunset

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Downtown Walking Tour

19 March 20184 January 2025

At dawn, I caught my first glimpse of the beautiful island of St. Thomas with its sailboats and yachts in the harbor. A softness settled over the tranquil Caribbean Sea as the cruise ship approached the dock. The morning chill would soon be replaced by the heat of the sun rewarding us with another tropical day in paradise. Nestled in the cove of Charlotte Amalie, the ship had soon docked at Havensight, only a mile’s walk east of town.

Soon after the ship was tied up and the gangway set out on the dock, I grabbed my belongings and set off towards the village of Charlotte Amalie. The large shopping plaza, located between Post Office and Market squares, offers duty-free liquor, European imports and souvenirs for passengers and crew. Convenient for passengers who prefer to remain close to the harbor, I prefer to shop in town where prices are discounted at a higher rate.

After passing the market at the port, the start of my walk was hardly picturesque with older, industrial buildings lining the roadway. Yet within minutes, approaching Yacht Haven Grande, I explored several upscale shops and restaurants. Luxury cabin cruisers were docked along this popular plaza, ten minutes from the center of town.

The wooden boardwalk soon evolved into a concrete stretch of walkway passing the picturesque cove. With extraordinary views of the nearby islands, sailboats and working boats anchored nearby. One of sixty-eight islands that comprise the US Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is the largest of the four islands that are inhabited.

The sun burned off the last of the morning fog and the view stretched out for miles. A cool breeze masked the 95 degree heat as the walkway narrowed and curved towards the oceanfront village of Charlotte Amalie.

Before the US Virgin Islands were sold to the US, the islands were settled by the Danes in the 17^th century. The final stretch of my walk into town was the Legislature Building on the left and the Virgin Islands Museum. The beautiful museum, originally the 17^th century Fort Christian, is the island’s oldest building in continuous use. Converted into a jail, a church town hall, courthouse and governor’s residence, this museum displays the history of St. Thomas from the Stone Age to present.

Approaching the charming center of Charlotte Amalie, I immediately noticed the second story restaurant, Bumpa’s, with a spectacular view of the cove. Ordering a drink, I found the perfect 2-seater table to take in the picturesque view and map out my tour of the town. The cobalt waters and small boats bobbing along the bay tempted me to stay for the view, but I was excited to explore and learn more about the island’s history.

Stepping out of the restaurant, I found Dronningens Gade (Main Street) where numerous shops stood along the alleyway. Store attendants were standing outside offering discounted rates on jewelry and promised the best deals on the island.

After losing my way for a few minutes, I eventually reached a set of stairs that led me to Hotel 1829. Built as a residence for a French Sea Captain, this former home is now a hotel. Walking towards the entrance, I learned that there was a wedding taking place inside and it was closed for the private event.

Directional signs pointed me towards the scenic attractions I had planned to visit. Looking out into the ocean, I noticed a small clearing in the trees that framed the port of St. Thomas and its beautiful harbor. A set of steps, known as the 99 Steps, continued up the hill. Similar to the stairs I had seen in San Juan, these were also made from the stone ballasts once used to balance the load of old sailing ships.

The island is rich with pirate history so I was excited to visit Blackbeard’s Castle. Originally built by the Danes in 1679, the property, which is now a hotel, was a supposed location where Blackbeard would hang out on occasion.

The Skytsborg Tower sits on five acres, referred to as “The Williamsburg of the Caribbean”. Built in the 17th century this amazing stone structure by the Danes, offers a spectacular view of the harbor.

Making my descent back into town, I stopped to admire “The Three Rebel Queens of the Virgin Islands Fountain”. Unveiled in 2005, this beautiful monument created by Richard Hallier, commemorates the Fireburn Revolt. The Labor Riot, led by Queen Mary, Queen Agnes and Queen Mathilda, started out as a peaceful protest on the island of St. Croix due to small wages and difficult work conditions. Rumors began to circulate within the group that a laborer had been killed in police custody which led to the rioters looting the town and setting fire to the buildings and plantations. The three women were imprisoned as a result of the destruction and are represented in the sculpture carrying a lantern, torch and harvesting tool.

Continuing down the walkway towards town was the Crown House, a vibrant yellow colorful house with purple shutters came into view. This beautiful structure was built in the mid 1800s as the home of the island’s governor, Peter von Scholten. Designed in the style of West Indian architecture, it is currently a private residence.

In the heat of the day, the stroll back to the ship brought me to the Yacht Haven Grande once again. I took a seat on the patio at The Fat Turtle, facing the yachts and enjoyed a drink before checking out Paradise Point.

I decided to ride the cable car to the top of Paradise Point to have a couple of drinks and enjoy the view of the harbor. Although I had the option to take a taxi to the top, I paid the $21 for the St. Thomas Skyride. Boarding the gondola, the weather was just as perfect as the view. I could see the cruise ships and yachts docked in their assigned slips and all of the anchored boats and sailboats dotting the harbor. There were islands as far as the eye could see.

At Paradise Point, there was a shop that sold treasures from a sunken ship that was recently discovered. I had an interesting conversation with one of the divers and checked out the artifacts. I was hoping to take the 1/4-mile trail for views of St. Croix, but the trail was closed due to the previous week’s weather. Instead, I took a seat at Bailey’s Bushwacker overlooking the harbor and placed my order for the local Bushwacker and Key Lime drink. The Bushwacker is made up of 1 oz of the following: Pusser’s Rum (suggested), Vodka, Kahlua, Bailey’s Irish Cream, Amaretto, Frangelico and Crème de Cacao. That’s a lot of alcohol in this tiny, but yummy drink topped with whipped cream and a cherry on top, After a couple of Bushwackers, it was time to call it a day.

Do you have a favorite Caribbean port? I would love to hear about your preferred island and what activities or attractions you prefer. Just leave a comment below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Blackbeard’s Castle aka Skytsborg Tower:
Lille Taarne Gade
Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Telephone: 340 776 1234

If you would like to check out the attractions in Charlotte Amalie, download the Self Guided Downtown Historic Tour and Charlotte Amalie Map from www.virginislandsthisweek.com.

September 6, 2017 Update: This site is CLOSED due to the destruction of Hurricane Irma. A re-opening date is not available at this time.

Villa Notman in Kongens Quarter: next door to Blackbeard’s Castle

September 6, 2017 Update: This site is CLOSED at due to the destruction of Hurricane Irma. A re-opening date is not available at this time.

St. Thomas Skyride:
9617 Estate Thomas
St. Thomas, VI 00802
Phone: 340 774 9809

Admission Fee: $21 for Adults, $10.50 for children 12 and under; children under the age of 5 are FREE.
Hours: Open Monday from 9AM to 4PM, on Tuesday from 9AM to 5PM and on Wednesdays from 9AM to 9PM. Hours may vary depending on when ships are docked in the port of St. Thomas.
Amenities: Restaurant, Tram, Shopping Deck, Sundeck, Dining Room, Patio, Harbor Terrace, The Nest, a reception room for events.
Scenic View: Breathtaking views of St. Thomas’ Harbor from Paradise Point
Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: You can also drive or hail a taxi to the top of Paradise Point.

Where to Stay:

Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham – St. Thomas
6080 Estate Smith Bay
St. Thomas, 00802, US Virgin Islands
Telephone: 340 775 8300

Where to Eat:

Bumpa’s
38-A Waterfront Hwy
Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

The Fat Turtle is now permanently closed
Yacht Haven Grande
St. Thomas, USVI 00802
Phone: 340 714 3566

What to Eat:

Bull Foot Soup – also known as cow heel soup, it is made from the heel of a cow, vegetables and local spices
Conch
Fungi – Polenta made from ground cornmeal, Caribbean-style
Johnny Cakes – snack made from flour, butter and sugar
Kallaloo Soup – similar to gumbo, this soup is made from fish, greens, onion, okra and local spices
Lobster
Pate – similar to empanadas; dough filled with chicken, fish or beef
Roti – flatbread wraps filled with meat or vegetables

What to Read:

Caribbean: A Novel, by James Michener
Right Place, Wrong Time by Judith Arnold
Land of Love and Drowning: a novel, by Tiphanie Yanique

Photo Guide for St. Thomas

St. Thomas Ride Paradise for spectacular views of Charlotte Amalie
Megan’s Bay for pristine beaches
99 steps
Government House
Coki Beach for corals and amazing underwater life
Secret Harbour for squid, turtles and barracuda
Drake’s Bench for panoramic views
Brewer’s Beach Bay for viewing airplanes
Blackbeard’s Castle

The St. Thomas Harbor

The Yachts in St. Thomas

A View of the Ship from Town

The Islands Surrounding St. Thomas

Panoramic View of Charlotte Amalie and the St. Thomas Harbor

The exciting view of St. Thomas from Paradise Point

The cable cars on the St. Thomas Skyview Ride

The Carnival Liberty as seen from Paradise Point

The Port of St. Thomas

Drinks at Bumpa’s

A Tour of San Cristobel, San Juan, Puerto Rico

26 February 201817 September 2024

I was determined to see the two forts in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico before returning back to the States. After having an afternoon siesta, it was time to tackle the tour of San Juan’s San Cristobel Fort. There are two entries into the historical site, so I approached the main entrance with its fabulous views reaching El Morro and the Cemetery of Mary Magdalene.

To my left, I could see the city wall. Three miles long, it connects the forts of El Morro to San Cristobel. After several attacks on San Juan beginning in 1625, the wall was finally completed in 1790, completely surrounding the city. This section of the fort, there are embrasures to support cannons once used to protect San Juan from invasion.

I took the ramp up to the next level where I purchased my ticket and began my self-guided tour. From a doorway nearby, I could see the Carnival Liberty docked in the harbor of San Juan.

Immediately, I noticed the beautiful contrast of the old fort against the modern city of Old San Juan as I looked through one of its windows. With such an amazing charm and rich history this beautiful port hosts nearly 4 million visitors each year.

The casemate, with a vaulted chamber in a fortress, was the kitchen used to feed the soldiers of the garrison. It was believed that the kitchen had eventually moved to another area of the fort and the original location converted into a storage room.

There was evidence that the Casemate Chamber No. 3 had several uses over the years. From cannon emplacement to sleeping quarters and dining room, it was believed that during WWII, it may have even been used as an officer’s quarters.

The designated Catholic place of worship was set aside in one of the casemates of the fort. Soldiers could attend weekly mass and it was also a place of daily prayer.

One of the compartments of the hall was set up to show the sleeping quarters of the soldiers that were stationed at the fort.

To ensure a healthy supply of water, the cisterns were built to capture rainwater for drinking. There were a total of 5 cylinders that measured 57 feet long, 24 feet high and 17 feet wide, holding a total of about 870,000 gallons of water.

From the fort there were several views of the busy streets of Old San Juan. The lively mix of pastel left a colorful impression on the horizon.

Passing several openings throughout the fort, I managed to see the cruise ship, Carnival Liberty docked in the San Juan harbor. We had just returned today but I could have easily jumped back on for another week in the Caribbean.

There was a set of stairs that led to the second floor where the troop quarters were located.

I could see where the placement of the cannons were located and the tracks for which they could maneuver them from left to right to reach the target out in the open sea.

The Fire Control Station was built for use in WWII as an observation post to detect enemy ships and submarines. The information collected here was transmitted to assist in the coordination of artillery fire.

As the sun began to set, the light poured in from the arched doorways. In the distance I could see the entrance to the long tunnel that led to the dungeon and I was so excited to explore this area of the fort.

Thinking that the pathway leading to the dungeon would be dark and dreary, I was pleasantly surprised that it was quite well lit. Standing outside of the entrance, the room was unusually small which was not what I had expected, but then I entered.

On the wall are extraordinary carvings of galleons, sailing ships from the 15th to 17th centuries. Absolutely breathtaking, these works of art are assumed to be the drawings of a ship’s captain held captive here, awaiting execution for the crime of mutiny.

Before leaving the fort, I stopped by the gift shop and the small museum that included an exhibit about the life and times of the soldiers living at El Morro and San Cristobel. After picking up some souvenirs and having my national parks passport stamped, it was time for lunch and this would be my last chance to enjoy my favorite local dish, mofongo.

Would you consider visiting El Morro or San Cristobel forts during a visit to San Juan? I would love to hear your thoughts on attractions that are most important to you when vacationing. If you would kindly leave your thoughts in the comments section, that would be great! Many thanks for touring the Castillo San Cristobel through my blog post! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Castillo San Cristobel
San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 449 4049

Admission Fee: $7 which includes the Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal and 24 hours are provided to visit both forts
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 6PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Amenities: Gift shop and restrooms
Scenic Views: Gorgeous views from the fort include the harbor and the cemetery as well as the shoreline.
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: There are several iguanas and feral cats that roam the premises. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring plenty of water. (Carts outside sell water). Don’t miss the Dungeon at Castillo San Cristobel!

Where to Stay:

Hotel Plaza de Armas Old San Juan
202 Calle San Jose
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00901
Telephone: 787 722 9191

Amenities: Non-smoking, free continental breakfast, WiFi, refrigerator and microwave; there is a free trolley nearby at Stop #8

Where to Eat:

Cafe El Punto
105 Calle Fortaleza
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901
Telephone: 787 725 1306

What to Eat:

MOFONGO! This is absolutely my favorite dish in San Juan. Mashed fried plantains are smothered with meat and/or vegetables.
Alcappurias are similar to fritters filled with crab, meat or lobster and dipped in a batter made from green bananas.
Arepas de Coco is a bread made from coconut flour stuffed with meat, seafood or vegetables.
Chicharrones de Pollo are usually served as a side dish to mofongo, these tasty pieces of chicken are seasoned with garlic, oregano and achiote.
Chilo Frito is a fried red snapper served with fried plantains or french fries on the side.
Lechon is a suckling pig cooked whole and prepared juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
Pastelon: San Juan’s answer to lasagna made with plantains instead of pasta
The Pina Colada was invented at Barrachina in Old San Juan.

Where to Drink:

Marilyn’s Place
100 Calle San Francisco
San Juan, Puerto Rico, 00901

What to Read:

The Rum Diary by Hunter S. Thompson
The House on the Lagoon by Rosario Ferre
Simone by Eduardo Lalo
Mundo Cruel by Luis Negron
La Llamarada by Enrique Laguerre
Song of the Simple Truth by Julia de Burgos

Photo Guide for San Juan, Puerto Rico:

La Perla in Old San Juan for its colorful umbrellas
The cobblestone streets and colorful buildings of Old San Juan
The Forts in Old San Juan

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

Approaching the entrance to Castillo San Cristobel

Plaque designating this site as a National Historic Site

The Contrast between old and modern in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Looking out from the Fire Control Station

Spectacular view from San Cristobel to El Morro

Inside of the Dungeon, San Juan, PR

Well lit tunnel leading to the dungeon

Scenic Coastal View from San Cristobel to El Morro

Salem, Massachusetts: A City Bewitched

17 November 201716 September 2024

My visit to Salem took me back to high school when we studied the Salem Witch Trials in American History class. I remembered the terrifying stories about how a group of young women were accused of dabbling in witchcraft and later sentenced to death. What started out as a night of fortune telling ended up in the execution of twenty innocent lives. I imagined the fear that must have spread through the community and the mounting distrust among friends and family.

The accusations and devastating deaths during these trials continue to have a large influence in the city of Salem, Massachusetts. Several locations commemorate the events that draw curious visitors to Salem each year, especially during the Halloween holiday.

A number of museums document the historical aspect of the Witch Trials of 1692. Locals agree that these events are much more down-played today than twenty to thirty years ago when the trials were more prominent here.

The city’s identity is strongly reflected in the history of the witch trials. Neighborhoods have names such as Witchcraft Heights where the school mascot is the Witch and police cruisers even display the symbol of the witch on a broom on the side of their vehicles. During the Halloween season, Salem’s influx of visitors nearly doubles when witches and warlocks gather together in celebration of Hallow’s Eve.

Despite all of the superstition and witchcraft, I found Salem to be a city with so much more to offer than its past. In addition to its beautiful harbors and parks, the city is home to some of the finest restaurants in the state and quite a few landmarks that are worth a visit.

My friend, Dave and I were visiting his uncle during our trip to Salem, Massachusetts and since he grew up in Boston, he knew the area quite well. We started out in the early morning at Salem Willows Park.

Dave had visited here with his middle school class and vividly remembered the witch displays that had been set up close to the harbor. He was surprised that the historical events of the witch trials which once took center stage in Salem, seemed to be more down-played than when he was growing up in Chelsea.

Opening in the 1880’s, Salem Willows was a popular recreational area for the locals with a pavilion, an arcade and a number of businesses that lined up along its perimeter. There were several restaurants and entertainment venues that included a pool hall, bowling alley, and a shooting gallery.

The park is named for its beautiful white willow trees that were planted here in 1801. I imagined that they would provide perfect shade in the hot summer sun and a lovely location for a picnic.

By the 1920’s the Charleshurst Ballroom sponsored big band headliners such as Count Basie and Louis Armstrong. Entertainment continued in the ballroom over the next 20 years and amusement park rides were added to amuse the children.

During our visit, we learned that the Salem Willows had its own signature sandwich, the Salem Willows Chop Suey Sandwich. Made popular in the 1930’s, it can still be found today at nearby Salem Lowe Restaurant. Chop suey is a meat, such as beef, chicken, pork or seafood combined with vegetables to include cabbage, bean sprouts, and celery. Thickened with starch, the meat and vegetables are put on a bun making this the infamous Salem Willows Chop Suey Sandwich.

We completed our visit to Salem Willows. walking along the harbor. Passing the Clam Shack, we enjoyed the smell of the Atlantic Ocean and feeling the cool breeze of the autumn air.

With the whole day ahead of us to explore, we took the five minute drive from Salem Willows Park to the House of the Seven Gables. Salem native Nathaniel Hawthorne wrote about this family home which was owned by his cousin Susannah Ingersoll, who had lived here during the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.

The guided tour provided a lovely historical account of the home as it was owned by three generations of Turners and later the Ingersoll family. The guide also offered information about the 20^th century restoration and how the new features corresponded with the home in Hawthorne’s book.

We enjoyed strolling the property’s gardens and learning about the Counting House where spices from the West Indies were imported to the United States’ eastern seaboard.

Leaving Salem and driving back to Boston, I noticed the Bewitched statue out of the corner of my eye and tried to take a quick photo. Dave explained that the television show was filmed here in Salem on several occasions during one of its later seasons.

I began to think about how the time difference has changed so much to what Americans will find acceptable or even tolerate today. While 300 years ago even the mention of witchcraft was once punishable by death, it has become accepted and even celebrated in society today. Salem makes no excuses for what happened during the city’s witch hunt, but it is quite clear that it has thoughtfully paid tribute to the innocent victims and has made peace to the wrongfully accused. For a town with a name that comes from the Hebrew word shalom meaning peace, Salem has come a long way.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Salem? I would love for you to share your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post about Salem and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Salem Willows Park
167 Fort Avenue
Salem, MA 01970
Telephone: 978 741 4600

Admission: Free
Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day 10AM to 11PM

The House of the Seven Gables
115 Derby Street
Salem, MA 01970
Telephone: 978 744 0991

Admission: Adults $12.50, Students (5 – 12) $7.50, Seniors $11.50
Hours: 10AM to 5PM

Where to Stay:

The Hotel Marblehead
264 Pleasant Street
Marblehead, MA 01945
Telephone: 781 639 9999

Where to Eat:

Clam Shack
98 Restaurant Row
Salem, MA 01970
Telephone: 978 741 2526

I was dying to try a lobster roll but knew I had to have something with clams, so I ordered the clam chowder which was spectacular and you can’t beat the price of seafood in the northeast!

“Where witches fly and clams fry”

Salem Lowe Restaurant
197 Fort Avenue
Salem, MA 01970

Order the locally famous Salem Willows Chop Suey Sandwich

What to Eat:

Boston Baked Beans
Cape Cod Potato Chips
Chop Suey Sandwich at Salem Lowe Restaurant
Clam Chowder
Fluffernutters – sandwiches made of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff
Fried Clams
Griddled Blueberry Muffins
Hoodsie Cups – cups of vanilla ice cream with a paper lid
Lobster Rolls
Necco Wafers
Roast Beef Sandwiches at Kelly’s Roast Beef

What to Read:

Death of an Empire, by Robert Booth
A Patriot Lad of Old Salem, by Russell Gordon Carter
Suzanneh Morrow, by Megan Chance
I, Tituba, Black Witch of Salem, by Maryse Conde
The House of the Seven Gables, Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Crucible, by Arthur Miller

Photo Guide for Salem, Massachusetts:

The Samantha Statue/Bewitched Statue
The House of the Seven Gables
The Witch House on Essex Street
Historic Salem Homes in the McIntire District
The Ropes Mansion (used in the movie Hocus Pocus)
The Salem Harbor
The Salem Willows

Ocracoke Village and Harbor, North Carolina

28 May 201716 September 2024

The 45-minute ferry ride from Hatteras is half the fun of visiting Ocracoke Island. Our family’s annual summer vacations included a day trip to the island for fresh seafood and a visit to see the Ocracoke ponies. Located on the southernmost edge of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Ocracoke has consistently been voted one of the Best Beaches in the country.

Ocracoke Village is a hub of action with its charming boutiques and waterfront restaurants. Measuring 9.5 square miles, it is the perfect getaway from the mainland to enjoy the town’s laid-back atmosphere and island attitude.

One of my favorite activities on Ocracoke Island is to visit the Blackbeard Museum at Teach’s Hole. The kids loved reading about the island’s pirate history and learned more about the life of Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard. They were fascinated by the larger-than-life-sized Blackbeard wearing his pirate’s regalia and the replica of his ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge.

Blackbeard was known for terrorizing the Atlantic seas and the mention of his name would terrorize even the burliest of seamen. Standing nearly seven feet tall, his bushy beard was the deep dark color of night and it was said that he looked like the devil himself. Sinking and capturing ships along the coast, he made Ocracoke Island his home base, building a two-story house known as “Blackbeard’s Castle.” Present day maps still identify Teach’s Hole, which is where Blackbeard met his demise on November 22, 1718. Stabbed twenty-two times and shot five, Lt. Maynard ordered his decapitation and his body tied to Maynard’s ship, ending the Golden Age of Piracy.

Several 18^th century residences along the village date back to the time of Blackbeard. The British Cemetery was established when British ships were sunk by German submarines along the shores of the island during World War II.

In 1998, Fort Ocracoke was discovered about two miles from Ocracoke Village. Previously constructed as a Confederate fortification for the War of 1812, the octagon-shaped structure was built on Beacon Island in Ocracoke Inlet. Destroyed by the hurricanes of 1933, the fort has submerged into the Ocracoke inlet, although a memorial marks it location.

Quite a few outdoor activities include kiteboarding at Kite Point Beach, fishing at the various inlets and hiking the nature trail at Springer’s Point, a favorite hideout for Blackbeard. We enjoyed finishing our active day at Ocracoke Harbor to gaze out on the fishing boats, sail boats and ferry transports running back and forth to the mainland. Before sunset, we found a seat at a local restaurant to watch the sun disappear into the horizon before taking the ferry back to the mainland.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Ocracoke Island? What was your favorite activity? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my day visit to Ocracoke Island in the Outer Banks and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Blackbeard’s Exhibit at Teach’s Hole
935 Irvin Garrish Highway
PO Box 1718
Ocracoke, NC 27960
Telephone: 252 928 1718

Admission Fee: Adults: $4 and Children, ages 7 to 12: $3 Children under seven are free with an adult and senior rates, 64 and over, are $3.
Hours: Open Wednesday through Saturday 1:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
Amenities: Gift shop and exhibits
Length of Visit: 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: The museum is only open in the afternoon. Small children may be fearful of the Blackbeard figure.

Where to Stay:

The Castle B&B
155 Silver Lake Drive
Ocracoke, NC 27960
Telephone: 252 928 3505

Where to Eat:

SmacNally’s Bar & Grill
180 Irvin Garrish Hwy
Ocracoke, NC 27960
Telephone: 252 928 9999

One of my favorite pastimes in the Outer Banks is to order peel ‘n eat shrimp. I ordered a half a pound and some fried okra. I was in southern cuisine heaven.

What to Eat:

Seafood along Irvin Garrish Highway for large shrimp in July when they are in season. You can purchase them either plain or seasoned. Check out Ocracoke Seafood Company at 416 Irvin Garrish Highway.

What to Read:

Blackbeard the Pirate: A Reappraisal of His Life and Times, by Robert Earl Lee

Photo Guide for Ocracoke Island

The Outer Banks Scenic Highway that runs along the island for photos of the wild mustangs
Ocracoke Harbor
Ocracoke Island Lighthouse

Going Back Somewhere in Time on Mackinac Island, Michigan

26 January 201631 August 2024

It was a gorgeous Michigan day when we decided to make the trek towards the Upper Peninsula. As we approached the island from the south, we could see the Mackinac Island Bridge in the distance. A massive suspension bridge measuring over 26,000 feet connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan and traverses Lake Huron, one of the Great Lakes. The residents of Michigan call it the “Big Mac” bridge and they refer to themselves as U-P’ers, living in the Upper Peninsula. Those living south of (or “under”) the bridge are lovingly referred to as trolls.

I had first heard of Mackinac Island, Michigan when I rented the movie “Somewhere in Time”. The production starred Christopher Reeve and was filmed on the island in the late-1970’s. When I began telling my friends that I was going to spend a week-long family vacation in Michigan, my friends highly recommended spending a day on the island.

We paid the toll to reach the upper peninsula side of the bridge and caught a ferry over to the island.

The bridge is somewhat reminiscent of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco.

The light breeze off of the lake felt great as we patiently awaited the ferry. From Mackinaw City Harbor, we boarded the Shepler’s Ferry shortly after our arrival to the pier and took the 45 minute boat ride to the island.

The ferry ride was incredibly relaxing and smooth as sea gulls flew above us and the winds began to pick up half way through the journey. In the far distance The Grand Hotel dominated the horizon and was the first structure visible along the coast.

Mackinac Island has been a popular resort town since the early 19^th century. With a quaint downtown full of shops, we arrived at the dock and disembarked, ready to explore the island.

We strolled through the downtown area prior to visiting the Grand Hotel. Admiring the yachts and sailboats in the harbor, we visited charming boutiques, restaurants and a large number of fudge shops.

We could not help but notice that there was a fudge shop on every corner, a fact for which Mackinac Island is known. According to one of the local “fudgies”, some of the shop owners have been making their famous fudge for over a century.

We had several options for getting around the island to include walking, horse and buggies as well as biking. No cars are permitted on the island, so this added to Mackinac’s charm and simplicity.

Among the historical buildings on Mackinac Island was St. Anne’s Church. Locals had congregated here since 1695, but this building, completed as we saw it today, was built in 1874.

Flower boxes adorned the windows of shops as we made our way to the Grand Hotel. We could not have asked for a more beautiful day to explore the island.

We passed a few horse and carriages that transported visitors to the Grand Hotel. We continued along the path that led us to the resort, passing beautiful estates and mansions that rest along the roadway.

The approach towards the hotel was breathtaking. Sitting atop the hill, the stately resort, with its Victorian architecture, commands attention. Built in the late 19^th century, it has been a luxury vacation spot for celebrities, politicians and visitors from all over the world. Because we were not guests of the hotel, we were required to pay a $5 charge to visit.

The hotel is known for its grand porch lined with rocking chairs that are strategically placed to enjoy the scenery. We took a few moments to enjoy the scenic view from the rockers before making our way back to the harbor to catch the ferry.

We retraced our steps into town with one final view of the Grand Hotel’s horse and carriage. With our ferry tickets in hand, we couldn’t decide if we should make another fudge stop and after taking a vote, the ran to Murdick’s Fudge for a last minute treat.

From the harbor to the downtown, the fudge shops to the Grand Hotel, the self-guided tour of Mackinac Island would end up being one of the highlights of our vacation. Even on holiday it can be a rare occurrence to experience a place that maintains its charming atmosphere. And it was for this reason, that on Mackinac Island, we too most certainly felt that we experienced a moment “Somewhere in Time”.

Have you visited Mackinac Island? Did you stay overnight or visit for the day? 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 day on Mackinac Island and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Mackinac Island Carriage Tours
7278 Main Street
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Telephone: 906 847 3307

This is the original carriage tour on the island! The tour takes close to 2 hours with six stops!

Where to Stay:

The Grand Hotel
286 Grand Avenue
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Telephone: 800 334 7263

Where to Eat:

Bistro on the Green
One Lakeshore Drive
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Telephone: 906 847 3312

We chose this location to enjoy the scenic view of the putting course. I started with the crispy calamari, that was perfectly breaded and served with Mission Point’s signature marinara sauce. I also ordered the grilled kabob, which was served with rice and tzatziki sauce with the perfect amount of garlic.

Murdick’s Fudge
7363 Main Street
Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Telephone: 906-847-3530

Mackinac Island is famous for its fudge and Murdick’s Fudge has been around since 1887!

What to Eat:

The Coney Dog from Detroit, Jackson or Flint.
Vernor’s Ginger Ale
Founded in the Upper Peninsula, the pasty is a pastry pocket with fruit filling
Mackinac Island Fudge
Apples
Cherries
Detroit Style Pizza shaped in a rectangle and baked until the edges are crispy.
Better Made Chips from Detroit
Germack Pistachios
Walleye Fish from the Great Lakes
Faygo beverages

What to Read:

The Legend of Mackinac Island, by Kathy-jo Wargin
Somewhere on Mackinac, by Jeff Adams
Mystery on Mackinac Island, by Anna W. Hale
The Remarkable Tale of Captain Kidd and the Astor Fortune, by Eugene Thor Petersen
Mackinac Passage: The Boathouse Mystery, by Robert A. Lytle

Photo Guide to Mackinac Island:

A View of Mackinac Bridge from Mackinaw City
The Grand Hotel as you approach the island
The charming shops on Main Street
Arch Rock on the island

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