The Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas

19 March 201921 September 2024

Images reflecting off of the canopy, screaming teens riding the zip-line, and stages of entertainment on the outstreets of Fremont Street summed up my Fremont Street Experience in the Old Town of Las Vegas.

It was a short distance for our hotel where we picked up the shuttle for Old Las Vegas. Dave and I grabbed a seat on the local city bus and within fifteen minutes we had arrived. Fremont Street spans four blocks with casinos, buffet specials and bars on each side. Three stages provide live music and we were excited to take in the tunes of the Beatles with look-a-like musicians dressed up as John, Paul, Ringo and George. The electric atmosphere and intimate space differs than the wide open spaces of Las Vegas Boulevard and the prices were less expensive as well.

We enjoyed our time strolling the old strip where historical casinos have existed since the early 1900s. The Golden Gate & Casino Hotel, once known as the “Hotel Nevada” was the first casino in Las Vegas, built in 1906. More casinos would soon follow in the early 1930’s and Vegas’ gambling industry would grow over the next few years. People continue to visit the Golden Gate with a bit of nostalgia, but most will stop by for their cheap shrimp cocktails and best odds of winning.

The Fremont Hotel & Casino opened in 1956 and was the first high rise to be built in Las Vegas and was considered to be the tallest building in the whole state of Nevada. This hotel makes up one of the “four corners” located at the crossroads of Casino Center Boulevard and Fremont Street. It is here where Wayne Newton made his Las Vegas debut in 1959.

Fascinated with the crime show, “Snapped” I had somewhat of a morbid interest in the Ted Binion case. Strolling the slots of Binion’s Gambling Hall and Casino I thought of the episode in which Ted Bunion was allegedly killed by his girlfriend and her lover. The indictment would eventually be overturned in 1998.

The hotel first opened in 1951 under the name of the Horseshoe Club and was owned by the Binion family until 2004. Poker players will recognize this building as the venue of the annual World Series of Poker which began in 1970. The hotel portion of Binion’s was closed in 2009.

The Golden Nugget was completed in 1946 and is said to be the largest of the downtown casinos. With close to 2,500 rooms and suites, it is known as the first building built as a casino from the ground up. The resort’s famed attraction is the 960 ounce gold nugget called the “Hand of Faith” and is on display inside.

Whether it is the Fremont Street Experience or the endless wandering among the Fremont Street casinos, visitors leave the strip to explore Old Vegas made famous by the Rat Pack. A trip to “Glitter Gulch” is an experience of unusual dimensions. Given this nane due to the number of neon signs, many of the originals have since retired and can be found refurbished in the Neon Museum exhibit.

The most famous of the neon signs on Fremont Street is Vegas Vic. With his cowboy boots and cigarette, it is one of the most prominent of all figures representing Las Vegas. The number of lights can be overwhelming yet its animation is entertaining.

Classic movies such as Elvis Presley’s “Viva Las Vegas”, the James Bond film “Diamonds are Forever” and the 1997 comedy “Vegas Vacation” will forever memorialize the original Las Vegas. What an amazing Strip of history.

Do you prefer the atmosphere of “Old Vegas” or “The Strip?” I would love to hear your opinion, so please leave your comments below! Many thanks for joining me on my Fremont Street Experience and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Fremont Street Experience

Golden Gate & Casino Hotel
1 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 1906

The Fremont Hotel & Casino
200 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 3232

Binion’s Gambling Hall and Hotel
128 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 382 1600

The Golden Nugget
129 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 7111

Where to Stay:

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

Where to Eat:

Golden Gate for its cheap shrimp cocktails!

What to Eat:

Anything! Las Vegas has it all!

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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The Bellagio, Las Vegas

5 March 201921 September 2024

I clearly remember the first time I stood in amazement of The Bellagio was when a friend of mine brought us here for dinner. He had just married a couple of months ago at this stunning, luxury resort and shared photos of their extravagant wedding celebration. Of course, he spared no expense, so the photos of their wedding were beyond anything I could have ever imagined.

I eventually had the opportunity to make my own memories at the Bellagio during a New Years’ celebration with another dear friend this year and found myself basking in the beauty of its opulence and luxury. Located along the strip, the Bellagio is one of the most luxurious resorts of Las Vegas.

We tried to find a seat at Lago by Julian Serrano which provides excellent views of the famous Fountains of the Bellagio. Unfortunately, we had arrived too late, and settled for a gorgeous view along the 8-acre lake, reminiscent of Italian lakeside village.

As crowds congregated along the sidewalk, the thousand theatrical fountains began their show to the tune of a classical Italian opera, both elegant and spectacular.

Entering the lobby of the resort, we admired the glass flowers of world renowned artist, Dale Chihuly. The sculpture, hanging from the ceiling, is made of over 2000 handblown blossoms. Named the Fiori Di Como, the effervescent colors seem to come to life as the sunlight radiates through the glass and windows from the rooftop.

The Bellagio’s Gallery of Fine Art and the lavish Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Garden are additional glamorous features of the hotel on display for guests and visitors.

I had my heart set on a confection from Jean Philippe Patisserie but when we arrived, we were so overwhelmed by the many choices that we decided on a café mocha for an afternoon boost. We promised ourselves that we would save room after dinner which would leave us plenty of time to decide on which sweet decadence would satisfy our craving. Did I happen to notice some wedding cakes in the corner?

Because Peter had not seen Cirque du Soleil’s “O” performance, he booked tickets for us for the evening show. The first time I had visited Vegas, my former boss had purchased tickets and I was mesmerized by the performance and more astonished by the price. The show continues to be one of the most sought after shows in Vegas, but we were so excited to share this experience together.

Soon the show would begin and since we were dressed and ready to go, we enjoyed a happy hour drink at Hyde Bellagio. The swanky, upscale lounge is also a perfect location to watch the Bellagio fountains, and reminds me of a set used for a Victoria’s Secret photo shoot. Surrounded by gigantic mirrors, chandeliers with suspended flowers and Mediterranean furniture, we took a seat close to the balcony.

The evening could not have been more perfect ending with a return visit to Jean Philippe for gelatos and walking the upscale promenade of shops. The show was phenomenal, dinner was indulgent, drinks were relaxing and the company was incredibly charming. It was a fairytale day at the Italian lake of Vegas.

Have you visited the Bellagio? I would love to hear your thoughts about this opulent hotel and casino, so leave your comments below! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 888 987 6667

Where to Stay:

The Bellagio
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 888 987 6667

Where to Eat:

Jean Philippe Patisserie
3600 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109

UPDATE: The Jean Philippe Patisserie is now closed.

Photo Credit: Hyde Bellagio provided by The Bellagio

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

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)

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

Welcome to Las Vegas!!

12 January 201921 September 2024

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

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

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

Gambling

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

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

Saying “I Do”

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

Dinner and A Show

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

Free Attractions and Discount Meals

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

Taking It Outside of Vegas

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

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

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

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

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

Reflecting Back Over 2018 Travel and Blog Posts

29 December 201827 July 2024

What a great year for travel! From conquering France to exploring the Wild West of the United States, it was a wonderful year of exploring 2 continents and 5 countries. There were past memories of travels gone by as well as discovering amazing sites in my own back yard! Here are some of my favorite photos from this years’ travel blogs and the amazing journeys I experienced in 2018!

Asia

Philippines

Naomi’s Heart Mission in the Philippines: A Day of Travel

Flying Into Hong Kong Before Reaching the Philippines

Caribbean

A Port Day in Dominica

The View of the Cruise Ship in Dominica

Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan: Part 1

The Raices Fountain in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan: Part 2

The Cementerio de San Juan

Raices Restaurant

Authentic Puerto Rican Costumes at Raices Restaurant

Sunny San Juan

My First Mofongo Experience

Europe

Italy: Rome: St Peter’s Facade

St. Peter and the Keys

Monaco: A City of Wealth

The Wealth of Monaco

Monaco: The Port of Monaco

Strolling the Port of Monaco

Spain: Barcelona and Its Architecture

La Sagrada Familia

Middle East

Israel

Bethlehem: Shepherd’s Field

The Chapel of the Angels

Bethlehem: The Church of the Nativity

The Altar of the Nativity

Turkey: The Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace

United States

United States: California

Joshua Tree National Park

The Joshua Tree

La Jolla Cove, California

Beautiful La Jolla Cove, California

Seals at La Jolla Cove, California

A Day in Morro Bay

Visiting the Rock at Morro Bay

A Weekend in San Diego

The Coronado Hotel

United States: Connecticut

East Haddam

United States: Georgia

Savannah

Strolling Through Savannah

United States: Maine

Acadia, Whale Watching and Visiting the Doubling Point Lighthouse

Acadia National Park

Enjoying the Coast of Maine in Rockland

Kayaking Near Owl Head Lighthouse, Maine

United States: Massachusetts

Salem

Touring the House of the Seven Gables

United States: Michigan

Oswald’s Bear Farm

Feeding a Baby Bear at Oswald’s Bear Farm

United States: Nevada

Harrah’s, Las Vegas

Slot Winners at Harrah’s

Las Vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas!

United States: New York

An Afternoon at Niagara Falls

The Gorgeous Falls on the US Side

United States: Ohio

Cincinnati: The Blind Lemon

The Patio in Winter

Cincinnati: Krohn Conservatory

Exploring Krohn Conservatory

Columbus: Inniswood Hike

Strolling through Inniswood Metro Park during Winter

Columbus: Zoo Lights

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo

Ohio Festivals:

The Banana Split Festival

Making our own Banana Splits at the Banana Split Festival

Medieval Life at the Renaissance Festival

Exploring the Ohio Renaissance Festival

United States: Ohio Wineries

A.R. Winery

Buckeye Lake Winery

Gervasi Vineyard

Entering Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, Ohio

Charcuterie Plate at Gervasi Vineyard

Henke Winery and Restaurant

Hundley Cellars

Lakehouse Inn and Winery

Moyer Vineyard Winery & Restaurant

Vinoklet Winery

Winery at Versailles

Yellow Butterfly Winery

United States: Rhode Island

Cliff Walk

A Furry Friend on Cliff Walk

United States: South Dakota

Deadwood

Mount Rushmore

Visiting Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

United States: Wyoming

Wyoming, Cody

Beautiful Landscape from Cody, Wyoming

It is amazing how much ground one can cover in a year! This year will be another amazing travel year! Where did you go in 2018? Do you have any plans for this year? I would love to hear from you! Leave a message in the comments section! Happy Travels!

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