Oregon's coastline is full of secrets: veiled pleasures and surprises, clandestine, deserted beaches and hidden gems peppering the towns in the form of lodgings or eateries. But perhaps the most stunning secret on all of Oregon's coast lies just outside of the art and culture mecca of Cannon Beach, on the north coast. There's a castle a bit south of town, hidden behind the walls of trees just north of the Arch Cape Tunnel. You can become king … [Read more...]
Death Valley, CA – When to Visit
If you enjoy extreme high temperatures visit Death Valley in the middle of July, as historically that is the hottest time of the year. However the most comfortable time of the year to visit is in early Spring, like March and the first or second week in April. During these months the high temperature is often in the 70's and 80's. Fall can also be a nice time to visit but the high temperatures in September and October are a bit warmer averaging in … [Read more...]
Death Valley, CA – Getting There
Death Valley is located in the south eastern part of California, nestled right up against the Nevada border. It is the largest national park in the lower 48 states and motorists can arrive a variety of ways. The closest major airport is McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas - about 100 miles away from the eastern/southern park entrance. One can rent a car in Las Vegas and then drive to the park - a little more then a 2 hour drive … [Read more...]
Death Valley, CA – The Heat
The heat here is simply awesome. Death Valley on average is the hottest place in the world. Its that simple - this valley can "cook". Names such as Stovepipe Wells, Furnace Creek, Devils Golf Course and Hells Gate are a dead giveaway as to the types of temperatures this valley experiences. Historically July is the hottest month of the year although late June can also see extreme temperatures. Seasons are turned around compared to typical … [Read more...]
Death Valley, CA – Attractions
Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states; it houses a diversity of natural and human-made attractions. Based on numerous trips to Death Valley, we recommend at least 4-5 days to have enough time to visit some of the following highlights. However some schedules may not allow that amount of time: One day: we recommend you concentrate your sightseeing efforts near Furnace Creek as many natural attractions are located … [Read more...]
Death Valley, CA – Accomodation
CAMPING Death Valley National Park features a variety of campgrounds, some quite large like the 1000+ Sunset campground near Furnace creek (only open in the winter months), to just a few camp spaces. Many campgrounds close for the summer season - approximately mid April through mid October. For the campgrounds that do stay open in the summer months, often the prices will be cheaper. We have often found campgrounds closed in the park due to … [Read more...]
Death Valley, CA – More Info
In addition to collecting information first hand from numerous trips to Death Valley, a big thanks goes out to the Death Valley National Park guide books, the guides at Scotty's Castle and park rangers for helping supply information for this article. Flash Flood, Panamint Valley - waters flowing down to the very seasonal Lake Levart Mojave Brown, always be careful hiking or biking near rocks in cooler weather in Death … [Read more...]
Las Vegas, NV – Casinos
There are so many casinos in Las Vegas; one could spend months just visiting, gambling and viewing all of their other attractions. Many of the Casinos, especially located along Las Vegas Boulevard (The Strip) are considered Super Casinos. There are only a few destinations on the planet where you will find a Super Casino - Las Vegas is one of these cities. A Super Casino is like an entire city contained within one giant mega entertainment … [Read more...]
Bangkok, Thailand – Temples & Shrines
Bangkok is home to hundreds of gleaming golden temples - many of which are centered around the old part of town and along the banks of the Chao Praya River or along other waterways within the city. Buddhists believe that monks should be ordained on or near water. Some are more memorable than others for a variety of reasons (size, architecture, unique artifacts, unique Buddha statues, location etc). Some of our favorites are indicated by the … [Read more...]
Bangkok, Thailand – Bars & Nightlife
Bangkok is a great place to party - with its mix of bars, night clubs and both locals and expats staying up until the wee hours. With weather that is warm in the evenings rooftop bars have finally become a 'thing' in Bangkok - delivering great views over the city skyline paired with a variety of cocktails, wines and beer and usually small bites. So grab a friend, choose a bar and head out for a fun evening of conversation, drinks and … [Read more...]