Travel Tips & Adventures

Real People. Real Travel.

Archive for August, 2009

Sunset Crater National Monument: Adventures in Nature’s Forces

Monday, August 17th, 2009

Almost 1,000 years ago, a volcano spewed hot magma – gases and rock – across the landscape in what would become Northern Arizona. What resulted is now called Sunset Crater National Monument.

Traveling to Sunset Crater is an easy drive from modern-day Flagstaff, Arizona. In some areas of the park, though, it feels as though you might be on the moon. (more…)

Friday Favorites debuts – Ogunquit, Maine

Friday, August 14th, 2009

In no particular order, I plan to review places I’ve been, things I’ve seen and restaurants where I’ve dined that have stuck with me – favorites.  Some of the places already reviewed are favorites, but I’ll be highlighting some new places, as well as adding new details about those we’ve already shared.

First up – Ogunquit, Maine

Although I have a great fondness for many places on the East Coast of the US, I returned to Ogunquit, Maine several times.  I loved the mix of sun, sand, waves, theater, seafood and a certain peaceful attitude you don’t find in every resort town.

Walking on the beach, looking out over the Atlantic Ocean was a restful, meditative experience.  Choosing lobsters, then sitting down in a very easy-going way to enjoy our food was another fun experience.  The arts community’s work in Ogunquit is a pleasure to see.  (more…)

Dover Air Force Base Open House – A Vicarious Adventure

Thursday, August 13th, 2009

What do you think of when someone mentions Dover, Delaware?  Probably not much.

 

Dover Sole, the White Cliffs of Dover, maybe?  Or, the place where large corporations incorporate due to favorable tax advantages?

 

This obviously shows you are not from Delaware, although the last answer would be correct. (more…)

Travel to Mount Rushmore – Faces in the Mountains

Wednesday, August 12th, 2009

By Guest Author Peggy Bradshaw

Upon first seeing Mt. Rushmore, the first thing that goes through your mind is the enormity of it. The second thing is “Wow! How did they do that!” (more…)

Traveling to an Ancient Castle – Montezuma Castle National Monument

Tuesday, August 11th, 2009

Long before there were high rises in Manhattan, ancient people built tall buildings in the cliffs. At Montezuma Castle, a US National Parks Service National Monument, you can see, from a distance, the handiwork of “Sinagua” dwellers from the 12th century. The Park is north of Flagstaff, Arizona near Interstate 17 and is normally $5 per person for those 16 and older.

 

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument

ALERT:

This is the last weekend (August 15-16) that the US National Park Service is allowing free entry to over 100 national parks. Montezuma Castle is one of the free locations during this special promotion. See the following list to see what is available to visit for free. (more…)

Getting Scammed: A Travel Advisory Update

Monday, August 10th, 2009

Last month I reported that I had been scammed. As unpleasant an experience as it was, the whole situation has gotten worse! I’m also kicking myself that I let myself be duped. I do have to admit that the con artist was very clever. (more…)

Now featuring…

Friday, August 7th, 2009

Travel Tips and Adventures Now Has a Store!

If you hit the “Shop” button at the top, you’ll see some fun products that feature our new logo.

Also, if there is a particular image we’ve shown that you’d like to see on a shirt or mug – or even a dog coat, let us know what day it was on TTAA and we’ll get it produced.  Custom items you like!

Then, all you have to do is go to our “Shop” and order the item you like with the image you want to wear or use.

Thanks so much for visiting Travel Tips and Adventures!

Planked Salmon and Other Oregon Delights & Recipe

Friday, August 7th, 2009

Oregon is a state of mind.  Everywhere we went when we visited years ago, we found ourselves trying to figure out how we could live in that particular locale.

I love the ocean; my husband loves the mountains.  Oregon has both ocean and mountains plus waterfalls, hiking, and scenery that truly makes you want to stay.  So, Oregon has absolutely charmed us.  The Convention and Visitors Bureaus would be proud of us!

Haystack Rock with friend, Cannon Beach, Oregon

Haystack Rock with friend, Cannon Beach, Oregon

(more…)

Santa Fe – A Trip to the Old Southwest

Thursday, August 6th, 2009

Next on our recipe week tour of the USA is Santa Fe -

Red adobe and old world charm make Santa Fe the city you envision when you think of the old Southwest.  Artists find the area inspiring and most visitors will, too.  There are shops galore, history around every corner and artists displaying their wares, even on the street. (more…)

Jammin’ and enjoyin’ – A New Orleans Trip

Wednesday, August 5th, 2009

Traveling to New Orleans is a treat. The sights, the food and the people make the “Big Easy” an irresistible destination for families and adults. Mardi Gras, well known for its festivities, is not the only time it is fun to be in New Orleans.

 

French Quarter street scene, early in the day

French Quarter street scene, early in the day

Although, I’ve been to New Orleans twice, I haven’t seen everything yet. But, even though I’ve been there, any visit is not complete until you visit the French Quarter, which is the quintessential place where everything comes together. There is music, excess, great food and amazing architecture. (more…)