Bodrum: Relaxation and Retail Therapy

24 April 20233 May 2025

We slept in late after a long day of travel and enjoying the pier for a swim and some sunbathing. It was looking as though we would have another perfect day to spend on the water at our resort home in Bodrum. We ate a hearty breakfast and then strolled the ten minute walk where we found some chairs and umbrellas to protect us from the hot sun.

We set out our belongings and carefully eased into the water from the ladder on the pier. We floated, swam and failed to improve our artistic swimming skills, though we did try. We took to the Aegean Sea which was crystal clear. Some of us snorkeled, while others went back to sunbathing. We couldn’t seem to stay out of the water for long and eventually worked up an appetite.

We had lunch at the outdoor restaurant and decided to take a walk through the maze of streets within the community. Houses of brick and stone were built along steep cliffs with gardens of tropical flowers as well as petunias in flower boxes and hanging baskets.

What I found most intriguing as we passed each of the homes was that they were decorated with a symbol that resembled an eye. I had first seen it in Istanbul on key chains and jewelry, but hadn’t taken much notice until it began appearing on street number signs and embedded in walkways and doorframes.

The Nazar Boncuk, or “Evil Eye”, is said to protect a person from an evil glare. The superstition dates back to the ancient Greeks who believed that receiving the malevolent stare would cause injury or misfortune. Since the look could take place even when the innocent person is unaware, there was a need to protect oneself from this supernatural force. The Nazar Boncuk reflects off the bad energy back onto the person who is inflicting the negativity towards another. This symbol is often hung throughout homes, offices and cars in the form of jewelry or ornaments.

We returned back to the house to take a car into the casual town of Bodrum. We started out strolling the streets, looking at menus along the way in search of seafood. In Turkey, most families will dine late at night for their final meal of the day, even as late as 10PM. Since we had plenty of time to explore the town, we got lost along the bustling maze. Beautiful homes hung to the cliffs, many whitewashed with clay-tiled roofs and accented with colorful bougainvillea.

After dining at Onikon Beach and Restaurant, we decided to shop for clothes and souvenirs. The shopping district was full of unique gifts and familiar boutiques. From inexpensive Turkish lanterns to luxurious carpets and towels, there were so many great products to purchase. I had such a difficult time choosing which items to buy, so I selected several: Turkish Delight, ceramic bowls, Evil Eye pendants and Raki.

With our hands full and wallets growing smaller, we were ready to head back home for a quick dip in the pool and another day to explore Bodrum.

Have you visited Bodrum, Turkey along the coast? I would love to hear about the places you visited, restaurants where you dined and shops that you absolutely loved if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing adventure in Bodrum and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Explore the seaside shopping area of Bodrum

Where to Stay:

METT Hotels and Beach Resorts, Bodrum
Heramton Cove, Eskicesme Mahallesi
Haramton Sokak, Degirmenler Mevkii
48400 Bodrum City/Mugla, Turkey
Telephone: +90 252 316 48 48

Where to Eat:

Onikon Beach and Restaurant
Menemene Yall, Mevkii No 57/A
Turkbuku/Bodrum, Golturkbuku
48400 Turkey

What to Eat:

Fruit: pomegranates, figs, peaches
Kumpir: potato with toppings
Lokmasi: deep-fried dough drenched in honey syrup
Peynirli borek: similar to Greek spanikopita
Sebzeli doner: meat, potato and vegetable skewers
Simit: bread that is between a bagel and pretzel

Kuta Puri Bungalows, Bali

11 March 202222 September 2024

The Kuta Puri Bungalows is a jewel of a resort in Kuta, Bali that is quietly tucked away in the fast-paced streets of the city. I had been booked in the nearby Hard Rock Hotel, but they had overbooked and my friend, Wayan found this amazing place.

The front desk is an open air structure where the attendants are super friendly and helpful in arranging tours and drivers for the day.

The paved pathways are perfect for exploring the grounds and taking a leisurely stroll.

Towards the front of the resort are the smaller rooms that are perfect for an economical stay.

I opted for the bungalow which included a sunken in living room, raised bedroom and an upscale outdoor bathroom set up in a garden style environment.

The outdoor bench was the perfect location for watching the thunderstorms. The bungalow was set towards the back of the resort where it was very private and quiet.

A small back porch of flowers and fauna was located off of the living quarters of the bungalow.

Two swimming pools are one of the few wonderful amenities provided by the hotel.

An attendant provides guests with pool towels each day.

Kuta Puri offers daily massages in a simple secluded area of the hotel’s property.

A Hindu temple is located towards the back of the hotel.

The resident cat stands guard at the Hindu temple.

A complimentary breakfast is served each morning at the resort’s restaurant. Lunch and dinner can be purchased here throughout the day.

The grounds are impeccable which makes for a nice morning, afternoon or evening walk.

Thank you for exploring the grounds of the Kuta Puri Bungalows with me. It is a resort that I highly recommend during your stay in the Kuta area of Bali. The hotel is reasonably priced with great accommodations and is close to the beach.

Have you been pleasantly surprised by a hotel or accommodation that you booked? I would love to hear about your experience in the comments below! Happy Travels!

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Grand Tetons: Mormon Row, Snake River and Jackson Hole

12 February 202020 September 2024

Heading north towards the Snake River Overlook, I had several places I wanted to visit along the way, starting with the Chapel of the Transfiguration. This small church, sitting at the base of the Grand Tetons, draws visitors with its beautiful views. From the window behind the altar, a picturesque scene provides an unobstructed panorama of the Grand Tetons. I imagine I would have been distracted by this picturesque scene while attending church here, but then again, it would always be a reminder of God’s beautiful creation.

Located in the park’s Moose area, the Chapel of the Transfiguration is an Episcopal Church located just inside of the South Entrance. Erected in 1925, this congregation an active community providing services for both Episcopalians as well as Eucharists during the summer season.

Traveling north, I found a short detour that led me to Mormon Row. During the summer months, this area is one of the best places to see bison and small herds of pronghorn antelope. It is the perfect backdrop for photographing the farm structures that were once home to Mormon settlers in the early 1900s.

At the last minute, I decided to take the one-mile gravel road to Lower Schwabacher Landing, once used as a starting point for rafting trips. Here, artists once painted some of the most familiar sites of the Teton Range and remains a perfect picnic spot to enjoy the view of the peaks.

I finally reached my afternoon destination. Made famous by world-renowned, photographer, Ansel Adams, the view of Snake River is spectacular. I can clearly see why photographing the overlook has become an obsession for photographers. I spent a few moments imagining myself as an early explorer, witnessing this view for the first time, but needed to start making my way towards Rendevous Mountain at Jackson Hole.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is more popular with skiers during the wintertime, but during the summer a gondola ride up to Rendezvous Mountain is irresistible. The Bridger Gondola provides breathtaking views of the resort below taking only 9 minutes to reach a climb of over 9,000 feet.

The gentle hum of the gondola is therapeutic as the climb continues upwards affording unobstructed sights of Teton Village below. Open only from 4:30PM to 9PM during off-season hours, there is a snack shop and restaurant for taking in the views. It is a perfect time to reflect on all that I experienced here in Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone. I am already looking forward to a future visit where I have promised myself to hike more, explore more and make it another trip to remember.

What are some of your most memorable visits to Grand Teton? What would you add to your itinerary on your next visit? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my adventure to Grand Tetons National Park! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Grand Teton National Park
PO Box 170
Moose, WY 83012
Telephone: 307 739 3399

Admission Fee: Each entrance fee covers 7 days of park entry. Private Vehicle: $35; Motorcycle: $30 and Hiker/Biker: $20 which only applies to visitors 16 years old and older entering the park by foot, bicycle, etc. An annual Pass for Grand Teton National Park is $70 which is valid for one year through the month of purchase. The Grand Teton National Park accepts the America the Beautiful Pass which allows access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites for a cost of $80 which is valid for one year through the month of purchase. Check out their website for more information: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm
Hours: Open daily, 24 hours; Refer to the Grand Teton National Park website for the operating hours of the Visitor Centers.
Amenities: camping, hiking, boating, skiing, biking, bird watching, climbing and mountaineering, fishing, horseback riding, 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: Scenic drives throughout the park include the Teton Park Road, Jenny Lake Scenic Drive and Signal Mountain Summit Road.
Length of Visit: To maximize your visit to Grand Teton National Park one would need at least a couple of days to experience all that the park provides.
Tips for Your Visit: The park is open year around, but winter time can be a challenging during snow and ice. 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. Signal Mountain is perfect for sunsets.

Chapel of the Transfiguration
Grand Teton National Park
Chapel of the Transfiguration Road
Moose, Wyoming 83001
Telephone: 307 733 2603

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Besides the church services, the hours of operation are not posted. I arrived at 9AM during the weekday and it was unlocked.
Scenic View: Gorgeous view of the Grand Tetons from the large picture window
Length of Time to Spend Here: Less than an hour.
Tips for Your Visit: The Chapel of the Transfiguration is an active congregation and church services are offered on Sundays at 8AM and 10PM during the summer season. The church played a major role in the movie, Spencer’s Mountain, featuring Henry Fonda and Maureen O’Hara.

Mormon Row
Grand Teton National Park
Located outside of Moose Junction
Moose, Wyoming 83001

Lower Schwabacher Landing
Grand Teton National Park
Moose, Wyoming 83001

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Tram Address:
3265 West Village Drive
Teton Village, Wyoming 83025
Telephone: 307 733 2292

Admission Fee: Free; Additional charge for tram tickets ($35 for round trip access; $84 to ride all summer)
Hours: Open daily from 9 – 5; Refer to the website for winter/ski hours
Amenities: Tram/Lift tickets, Grand Adventure Pass, Bike Rentals, Paragliding, Kids Summer Camps, Daycare, Lodging, Spa, Vacation Rentals, Restaurant (at the base of the mountain and at the top). Great for hiking, biking and skiing!
Scenic View: Gorgeous view of the Grand Tetons and the surrounding area from the top of the lift
Length of Time to Spend Here: Varies depending on activities
Tips for Your Visit: Tram/Lift tickets are free after 5PM. Be prepared for the elevation as it may cause some shortness of breath. Some shops and restaurants at the top of the lift close at 5, but there are restaurants at the base of the resort as well. Piste was opened until 9PM during the summer.

Note: The information I have provided does not include the winter season as I visited during the summer. Visit the resort’s website for more information regarding ski packages, etc. https://www.jacksonhole.com/

Where to Stay:

Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa
3385 Cody Lane
Teton Village, WY 83025
Telephone: 307 201 6066

Where to Eat:

The Deck @ Piste
Rendezvous Mountain
Jackson Hole, Wyoming 83025
Telephone: 307 732 3177

I ordered the Southern Belle made from White Wine with Orange and Passion Fruit. In addition, I had a glass of Henry Estate Pinot Noir to accompany my House Meatballs and Fries.

For more information about Grand Teton National Park, visit the park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/grte/index.htm.

Las Vegas: New York-New York

26 March 201921 September 2024

Las Vegas’ New York-New York Hotel is a perfect example of east meets west. With a fascinating façade of the New York Skyline, Vegas’ strip resort is full of all things that represent one of the greatest cities in the world.

The architecture includes a replica of the Empire State Building as well as the Chrysler Building. Quite noticeable is the 150 foot tall reproduction of the Statue of Liberty as well as various monuments and museums from The Big Apple. Grand Central Terminal and the Main Immigration Building located on Ellis Island are also represented in the façade.

Throughout the hotel are many landmarks that originally reside in NYC. For example, the Brooklyn Bridge is set outside of the hotel and inside, there are various sections of the resort that are named after the city’s neighborhoods and attractions. Take some time to browse the shops in Greenwich Village.

One of the main attractions of Vegas’ New York-New York hotel is its roller coaster. It passes inside and outside of the resort with coaster cars that take after the original Checker Cabs of New York City. The coaster reaches speeds of up to 67 miles per hour with its maximum drop totaling 144 feet.

New York-New York is home to the Cirque du Soleil production of Zumanity. It is important to note that the show is restricted to admission of those persons 18 and over. The resort also hosts headline acts such as Garth Brooks and provides scheduled entertainment at the Brooklyn Bridge.

The New York-New York Hotel & Casino offers a wide variety of attractions, shows and gambling opportunities. It is conveniently located on the Vegas Strip at 3790 Las Vegas Boulevard South. For more information about the hotel, visit the resort’s website at newyorknewyork.com.

Are you a frequent traveler to Las Vegas or live in the area? Which hotels do you recommend? And if you have been to Vegas’ New York-New York Hotel, what is your opinion of the hotel or how was your experience staying here? I would love to hear from you! Happy travels!

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!

Excalibur, Las Vegas

22 January 201921 September 2024

The Excalibur reminds me more of a bouncy ball playhouse than a resort, but with its colorful watch towers and lego-like drawbridges, it represents the more gaudy side of Las Vegas. Sporting its whimsical façade, I imagined a hotel of small little tots without adult supervision playing a wide range of Chuck E. Cheese games and jumping into piles of candy.

Stepping into the dimly lit stone interior of the castle, I immediately took notice of the hotel’s ancient Renaissance architecture. The resort’s facilities include an arcade for children in the fun dungeon and The Tournament of Kings dinner show with jousting and a primitive meal leaving the family looking for more wet naps.

Although there are plenty of activities for children, the Excalibur also caters to adults offering headliners from Cher, the Australian Bee Gees, George Strait and the ever popular male review, the Thunder from Down Under. Additional entertainment options include the Ultimate 4-D Experience, The Spa and for some, The Buffet.

I enjoyed my stroll through the Excalibur and its King Arthur-style resort, but I have to admit it would have been more memorable to have had the opportunity to gamble with the King and his Knights of the Round Table.

Did you make reservations for your last stay at the Excalibur in Las Vegas? I would be interested in hearing about your experience and if you attended any of the shows or events. If you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below, that would be great! Many thanks for reading about my outing through the Excalibur and wishing you many Happy Travels!

The Excalibur is located at 3850 Las Vegas Boulevard South. For more information about the hotel, contact their website at www.excalibur.com.

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)

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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

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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