Finding Inspiration in the Grand Tetons

23 March 202423 September 2024

The beauty of the Grand Tetons can hardly be explained in words. With its tall peaks, winding rivers, waterfalls and spectacular wildlife, I could not pass up the opportunity to visit here while making plans to explore Yellowstone National Park.

The sunlight glistened on Jenny Lake as I prepared to ride the ferry over to the south side. I would catch as soon as exiting the boat and venture towards Cascade Falls and Inspiration Point. From the top, there were spectacular views of the Grand Tetons and the surrounding area.

The wait was short and the ride most astounding. I heard the slight humming of the boat’s engine and the stirring of the water beneath. The fresh air was as intoxicating as the views from the small vessel that carried us across the lake. The crags and boulders appeared intermittently between the pines and provide the most beautiful reflection. The immense stature of the Tetons were noticeably present and grand and we arrived at our destination in a short time.

The moderate trail was broken in and we made our climb through the forest and over a large stream. Soon it was taking a more steep approach as we closed in on our final destination of Inspiration Point. The sounds of the falls in the distance challenged us to quicken our step and as we pressed on to the glorious view that we were about to witness.

We sat atop of the rocks overlooking the lake as a silence fell among us. It was a magical experience, so breathtaking that we could have stayed the afternoon taking in the scenery. It is no doubt, inspirational.

Have you taken the ferry to Inspirational Point? What other places did you visit at Grand Teton National Park? I would love to hear about your travel experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!

The Jenny Lake shuttle runs every 15 minutes for a cost of $9 roundtrip.

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.

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.

A Very Friendly Chipmunk

Incredible Vantage Point returning from Inspiration Point

Inspiration Point Hike

Gorgeous views of Jenny lake from Inspiration Point

The Shuttle Stop

Hidden Falls

A Chipmunk Waiting for Snacks

A Magpie

Travel Tips for Las Vegas

28 August 202122 September 2024

How can you maximize your time and money while visiting Las Vegas? With so many deals and discounts, I have provided a few suggestions.

If you decide to gamble (either a little, but definitely if a lot), pick up a “rewards” card from the service desk inside of the casino so that you can rack up credits, comps and receive future mailings with deals from the casinos. Some of the deals include free hotel stays, complimentary buffets and discounted entertainment. If you are gambling with a friend, spouse or significant other, put two cards under one name so the points will accumulate faster. So how does it work? When you find a slot machine, put the card in before inserting your money and points will be added to the card as you continue playing. Remember to remove the card when you have finished playing the machine. If you happen to forget to remove the card, the service desk within the hotel will gladly provide you with a replacement. One rewards card may be connected to a network of hotels (i.e., Mlife and Total Rewards) which is also beneficial for adding more points to your card, so keep this in mind when choosing a casino.
During your stay in Vegas you will be approached by numerous show/attraction representatives to book tickets through them. Check with your hotel’s comp desk/rewards desk where you may be able to secure a better rate for show tickets, etc.
If it is your first time to Las Vegas, you should really try to take in the free attractions that are offered by each of the hotels. There are floral displays, water fountain shows, museums and talking statues associated with the theme of a particular resort. For example, the Bellagio provides a spectacular water show while the Mirage’s volcano erupts at scheduled times throughout the evening.
Most people will tell you that your odds for winning at the slot machines are on Fremont Street. While this may ring true, we won nearly $500 playing Bier House at the Bellagio.
If you are not pressed for time, take the bus to Fremont Street instead of taking a taxi. You will save money and have unlimited use of the bus for a period of 24 hours for a small fee of $8 per person.
Traffic can be excessive, especially along the Las Vegas Strip, so unless it is absolutely necessary, don’t rent a car. There are plenty of alternative transportation options available.
We were surprised to learn that Harrah’s offered transportation to the airport. This service was extremely convenient and cost us the same amount as the Super Shuttle, $10.
Venetian for Breakfast. We heard that the $9.99 buffet was the best deal in town. So, when our flight arrived early in the morning, this was our first stop. Another great breakfast joint was Carlos n’ Charlie’s where we ordered the Charlie’s Breakfast Burrito with scrambled eggs, a special blend of chicken, carne asada and chorizo, Cheddar and Jack cheese and pico de gallo folded in a flour tortilla topped with red sauce and sour cream for only $12.99. We couldn’t resist the opportunity to eat outside.
When you visit Las Vegas, try to avoid the weekends. Hotel rates are much higher and the streets, casinos and events are crowded! We learned that many people visit from California because of its close proximity to Vegas.
Drinks are free when you are gambling. So this may not be new to you, but what you may not have known is that you can order top shelf liquor at no additional cost. Our friends ordered lemon-drop martinis made with limoncello and they were absolutely delicious.

So there you have it…a short list of how to make the most of your stay in Vegas. If you have any additional tips to add, just leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my experience for saving time, money and resources in Las Vegas and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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Welcome to Las Vegas!!

12 January 201921 September 2024

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

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

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

Gambling

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

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

Saying “I Do”

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

Dinner and A Show

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

Free Attractions and Discount Meals

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

Taking It Outside of Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

A Stroll Along Constitution Avenue, San Juan, PR

29 January 201816 September 2024

Riding the shuttle towards El Morro, I noticed a street of beautiful Spanish mansions and monuments that seemed like a great morning walk.

The next morning, I grabbed my workout clothes and shoes and headed out to a sunny day with mild temperatures. Starting at Plaza Colon (Columbus Square), I began my run heading towards the ocean until I reached San Juan’s Antiguo Casino. This statuesque Spanish and French-style marvel was built to entertain the Old San Juan’s socialites. Designed by architect Carlos del Valle, this gorgeous palace was completed in 1917 on the site of one of the original city gates, la Puerta de Santiago.

Later, the casino was converted into the Free School of Music and by 1955, the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture. With its majestic staircase and magnificent twelve-foot chandelier and stunning gardens are the property of the Government Reception Center. The location hosts corporate functions, formal weddings and festive galas.

Within minutes I start my approach towards the Ateneo Puertorriqueno, Puerto Rico’s Athenaeum. While the structure was beautiful and elegant, the architecture appeared more Middle Eastern with its tile and beautiful white stucco. Built as an educational center, its primary endeavor was to provide high learning for the Puerto Rican people. Built in 1876, it now has many uses serving as a museum, performance hall, library and school.

Beautiful palm trees accentuate the facade of the exquisite Casa de Espana. Looking regal with its Moorish architecture, the House of Spain was once a meeting place for Spanish Puerto Rican citizens. Inside, the two stories are decorated with multiple arches and splendid views from the upper level. Outside the plaza and its fountain are optimal for capturing photos. Bringing a bit of Spain to the island, the venue’s gorgeous interior is perfect for weddings and special occasions.

With so much to see along my run, I eventually came upon a section of monuments beginning with the Police Monument of San Juan and slowed down to check them out. The large obelisk, carved with a listing of names, honors the policemen and policewomen who have died in the line of duty while serving the island of Puerto Rico.

I was fascinated with the Plaza de los Leones and the regal lions that guarded the square. Not much is written about this beautiful plaza with the exception of a letter dated 1938. The note states that the “plazoleta”, having undergone restoration, had been damaged by vandals soon after the completion of the renovations. Because of the vandalism, the square was not properly inaugurated and even to this day, the site remains “under construction.”

Approaching the bronze statue of the girl and the globe, I knew this beautiful sculpture somehow represented the children of the island. Dedicated to the teachers of Puerto Rico, it goes without saying that the people here are appreciative of the educators who give back to their community daily. A list of some of the most notable teachers are inscribed on this additional monument and dedication.

Up a set of stairs sits a granite wall surrounding a tall statue. The El Monumento de la Recordacion, or the Monument of Remembrance, recognizes the Puerto Ricans who had given their life in combat under the armed forces of the United States. The memorial was unveiled in 1996 and contains over 2,000 names.

Before reaching the Paseo de los Presidentes, I approached a stunning mural with an arbor as its backdrop. Demonstrating the history and culture of the Puerto Ricans it was one of the most ornate sculptures I had ever seen. A bronze statue, know as The altar de la Patria, took center stage.

Moving towards the coast, there were several bronze busts of past Puerto Rican governors as the grassy park extended towards the roadway. Crossing back up towards the Capitol building I eventually entered the Paseo de los Presidentes.

Located directly across the street from San Juan’s Capitol was a line of life-sized bronze statues. Taking a closer look, I soon realized they represented six of the US Presidents who have visited the island since the late 19th century. Bronze plaques provide a short summary of each leader’s purpose for their visit and what they had accomplished during their stay.

Before finishing my morning of exercise, I wanted to make one last stop. Heading back away from the coast and towards Columbus Square, I reached the Capitol building and decided to go inside for a quick visit.

The Capitol building, more formerly known as El Capitolio de Puerto Rico is located across from the El Monumento de la Recordacion and the Paseo de los Presidentes.

I felt so small standing at the bottom of the steps looking up towards the Capitol building. I could see the security checkpoint and was a bit nervous as I climbed my way to the top.

As I approached the columned facade, I approached the opened door where two men in uniform were waiting at the entrance. While concerned that I was not dressed properly, they escorted me to the metal detector and mentioned the forum was open for visitors.

A short walk away from the security checkpoint, I was standing beneath an exquisite dome painted with local scenes. A true masterpiece of art, I could not take my eyes off of the intricate details of the stunning murals. At each corner, colorful depictions tell the story of Puerto Rico’s important historical events. One represents Columbus’ arrival to Puerto Rico, while another, the end of slavey and the end of the Spanish American War.

Before exiting the building, I happened to notice a wooden table with a glass cover at the other side of the room. Approaching the furniture piece, I could see the placard that identified the document as the Constitution of Puerto Rico.

Standing at the top of the steps, I looked out onto a more quieter San Juan, there were a few additional monuments to explore.

Reaching the San Juan Holocaust, I was reminded of the horrific treatment of Jews during the Second World War. Various plaques in both Spanish and English provided some of the historical facts of this atrocity. Nearby, the Path of the Righteous memorialized those who assisted the Jews and others that fell victim in the pursuit of trying to protect their Jewish friends and neighbors. Risking their lives they were true heroes and are duly honored here.

Within a few steps, I approached one of the most recent monuments dating to the late 1970s. It was here that I learned about the Lod Airport massacre where three Japanese terrorists attacked the terminal in 1972. Seventeen pilgrims from Puerto Rico lost their lives during the assault which resulted in 26 deaths and 80 injuries.

As I completed run and exploration along Constitution Avenue, I learned so much about the people and history of Puerto Rico. The highlight of my visit was the Capitol building and as I completed my morning run, I had certainly worked up an appetite. I think it’s time to continue my education of the culture of Puerto Rico and try some authentic Puerto Rican food. Next stop…..Raices!

During your travels, do you immerse yourself in the history and culture of the place you were visiting? Where was that place and what did you learn? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave your comments below! Many thanks for reading about our walk along the Constitution Avenue. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

San Juan’s Antiguo Casino
Ponce de Leon Ave and Norzagaray
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 641 7722 (Open by appointment only)

Ateneo Puertorriqueño
Telephone: 787 721 3877 (Open by appointment only)

Casa de Espana
Ave. Constitución #9,
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 939 272 4054, 787 724 1044 or 787 722 3611
(Open by appointment only)

El Capitolio de Puerto Rico
Ponce de Leon and Munoz Riviera Aves.
San Juan, PR 00901
Telephone: 787 721 5200 extension 301

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM.
Amenities: Tours are given in Spanish and English
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours, depending on if you take the tour
Tips for Your Visit: You will be required to pass through security to enter.

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:

Raices Restaurant
#315 Recinte Sur Street
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Telephone: 787 289 2121

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.