Fun Tour Guru Goes Off the Beaten Path

USA Celebrates Flag Day, June 14

2013-06-09T19:13:00.000-07:00

I'm sharing this article that I wrote and published online in June 2009. It is a tribute to the USA flag. For me, this holiday is more personal because I also remember my Mother's birthday on Flag Day. My Mother loved to display our flag on her special day.

A Holiday which America Celebrates the Anniversary of the Flag

Flag Day, June 14, is now an official holiday and tradition of the USA Flag symbol which was started in the 1800s by children in elementary schools.

Fourth of July is a popular USA holiday where people take extended weekend vacations in the summer months and gather together in local communities to participate in parades, picnics, and fireworks to celebrate the birth of USA.

A not so well known holiday celebration, FlagDay, June 14, in United States. People shower USA with flags on the fronts of businesses and homes to celebrate the USA flag, which was adopted by the Continental Congress in 1777. In some cities, there are traditions to give children small flags to carry with them throughout the day.

The USA flag is a symbol to remind people of the history, national pride, and independence of USA. The American Flag is even celebrated through the words of the National Anthem, the "Star Spangled Banner."

It is with respect which Americans follow certain rules when they display their flags:

It is to be flown during daylight and when it is not raining.
The flag should never be dipped or flown upside down.
It is not be used for advertising purposes.
When lowered to be put away, no part of the flag should touch the ground, it should be received by waiting, hands and arms, and folded in a ceremoniously way.
It should be cleaned and mended.

President Truman signed the official “Act of Congress” on August 3, 1949 appointing June 14th of each year as National Flag Day after Woodrow Wilson officially set up the Proclamation on May 30th, 1916 declaring this anniversary of the 1777 resolution to the American flag.

Shoreline Park, Mountain View CA Courtesy of D West

Children First Celebrated USA Flags in Elementary Schools

Children in elementary schools played a significant role in celebrating the USA flag in the late 1880’s when B.J. Cigrand arranged a celebration for the children in his classroom in Wisconsin to recognize this anniversary of the flag. Geogre Balch arranged ceremonies for kindergarten children in New York City which was recognized later by the State Board of Education in New York and Pennsylvania.

Leroy Van Horn, together with Cigrand, formed the American Flag Day Association and were successful in assembling the celebration for 300,000 children through Chicago in parks of Douglas, Garfield, Humboldt, Lincoln, and Washington honoring the USA flag.

Ted Roosevelt’s Story of the Flag

A story from 1908 passed down through generations is as follows:

"On June 14, Theodore Roosevelt saw a man wiping his nose on what he believed was the USA Flag. He quickly walked over and started hitting the man with a small wooden stick. He then realized the man was using a blue hankerchief with white stars to wipe his nose.

Roosevelt was quick to apologize for his behavior, although struck him one more time because he had become “riled up with national pride” with this similarity the cloth had to the flag."

Soon after this incident, in 1914, Secretary of Interior, Franklin K. Lane, delivered a speech in which he repeated words he said the flag had spoken to him that morning:

"I am what you make me; nothing more. I swing before your eyes as a bright gleam of color, a symbol of yourself."

The USA Flag is a symbol which is rich in history and traditions of American people and is celebrated on June 14 every year throughout local communities across the USA.

Happy Birthday and Flag Day, Mother! ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Source Used:

The Flag of the United States of America.

Image of flags from BostonUSA.com

Santa Clara Travel Consultants

Santa Clara CA: Levi's Stadium, New Home of 49ers and Superbowl 50

2013-06-05T12:11:00.003-07:00

A "super" size big deal. In Santa Clara CA.

I watched the live stream where the NFL voted in the first round to have Superbowl 50 (in the year 2016) in our new Santa Clara Levi's Stadium. And, even have a tweet of this. Wow, this is my neighborhood. It is great to be a part of history-in-the-making.

You may read the official news, facts, and figures on our City of Santa Clara website and there is even a live view web cam of the building activity available. Our Santa Clara Convention and Visitors Bureau website has a fabulous Superbowl 50 link with the latest news on hashtag #SCSuperbowl and the stadium building activity live view web cam link too.

I have been watching this monster building activity slowly growing the past couple of years as I drive by every week. The following pictures I have are real, and not just from an architect drawing. I took the pictures on the day after the Superbowl 50 announcement. May 2013

Santa Clara CA Levi Stadium, New Home of 49ers and Superbowl 50

Above, you are looking east towards the Diablo Range and Mt Hamilton (San Francisco bay area highest peak) and our City of San Jose, or what we call the Capital of Silicon Valley today.

Santa Clara CA Levi Stadium - New Home of the 49ers and Superbowl 50

Above, I was standing in our Santa Clara Golf & Tennis Club parking lot, golf course behind me, which is (approx) north of the stadium. The 49er Headquarters is to the left of the stadium.

Close Up of Santa Clara Stadium - End View Courtesy of DWest

Above picture, close up of our new stadium. Santa Clara CA

Above, Santa Clara Golf & Tennis Club is on the right side and our new parking facility is straight ahead, following the palm trees. Our convention center is tucked away behind the parking facility. The other high rise building in the distance is the Westin Santa Clara. Behind this, continue to the local towns of Sunnyvale and Mountain View.

California's Great America Amusement Park, Santa Clara CA - Courtesy D West

The above picture, I turned slightly around without moving my feet, to my right, after taking the very first picture. California's Great America Amusement Park. You are able to see the top of the roller coasters and the pointed roof of the Carousel.

49ers Headquarters, Santa Clara CA, Before the new stadium Courtesy DWest

It is a big deal. Superbowl 50 in Santa Clara ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Santa Clara CA Resources

Santa Clara Travel Consultant, Trips & Meetings - outbound and inbound

City of Santa Clara

Santa Clara Convention & Visitors Bureau

Santa Clara CA University Graduation Event on Memoral Day Weekend

2013-05-26T15:56:00.002-07:00

Don't forget about these great finds close to home...

I enjoy my frequent visits to one of my favorite universities, Santa Clara University, mainly because of the beautiful Mission which is located on the university grounds. Santa Clara University is one of the oldest "private universities" in California. And, many times I get to see the set up or break down of weddings held over summer weekends.

This weekend I was able to see this behind-the-scenes set up of the Santa Clara University Law School Graduation which took place yesterday. I don't know any of these graduates personally, I still pause...

I looked down the rows of empty seats and my thoughts went to each of the celebrations taking place with each graduate and their family and friends that would be taking place this weekend. I remember my own graduation celebration with my family ... I didn't know what I would do after that one day, there was the dream of what might be possible...

The green lawn was covered with hundreds of perfect aligned white chairs on both sides of the stage waiting for their arrivals the next day and uniquely placed around the palm trees throughout the area.

I met one kind, friendly person, the security officer, who let me wander a bit behind the closed off areas and on the stage.

Happy Memorial Day! So much has happened this past year ~ throughout our own country and world, how can each of us help each other? ~ The Fun Tour Guru

3 Most Frequent Questions from Travelers on Trips (FAQ)

2013-05-15T12:42:00.004-07:00

Where are the restrooms or bathrooms?

You have the trip planned and now you are ready to go. What are your questions during the trip?

I know it is fun to start reading your favorite blogs and websites for additional destination stories and information. Yet, I wonder, why am I still asked the same, repeat questions from travelers during their trips?

I chose three of the most frequent asked questions from people to discuss today, regardless of whether the trips are for business or leisure. I find the answers to these questions are not readily available by social media.

And remember, if you arrive in the evening or over the weekend, those people working in tourism information centers will most likely be unavailable.

The first question, where is the toilet, bathroom, or restroom?

Don't get caught with your pants down...Picture taken at Gilroy Hot Springs, CA Courtesy of DW

I did a Google search for “how to ask where is the restroom internationally” and received about 4,830,000 results (0.38 seconds).

A tip is don't forget the many variations in each language of “restroom” and “bathroom”. An example is Spanish may be different in Spain and Mexico. And, the definitions of these words are different in each country.

This is even true when you travel across the USA. I giggle as I mention, yes! Even New York City is very different from Los Angeles and San Francisco – and the cities in the north, south, east, and west.

This is a list of how to ask in five of my favorite languages:

German: Toilette
German = Wo ist die Toilette, bitte? (Vo ist dee toy-LETT-uh, BIT-uh?)

Spanish: Bano (North American Counrty)
Spanish = Perdone/Disculpe, ¿Dónde está el baño?(Formal) (Per-DON-eh, DOHN-deh es-TAH el BAHN-yo?)

Italian: stanza da bagno
Italian = Mi scusi, dov'è il bagno?

Greek: τουαλέτα
Greek = Parakalo, pou ine i tualetta? (Πού είναι η τουαλέτα;)

French : Salle de bain
French = pardon, où sont les toilettes? (pahr-DAW, oo saw lay twah-LETT?)

Do you understand what I mean now?

Gilroy Hot Springs, Gilroy, CA Courtesy of DW

The next frequent question…

Do you have wi-fi? And, how much does internet access cost, what is the code to use to connect?

I admit, I am spoiled living in Silicon Valley and Northern California where most cities offer free (complimentary) wi-fi , or connection to the internet. I take it for granted. This is not always provided for you or sometimes a challenge to find the code access. Luxury hotels and resorts charge for this additional service. Less expensive hotels usually provide this service, yet sometimes it is only provided in the lobby.

I ask where the local public libraries, coffee shops, or internet cafes are located. And, as I have mentioned before, I get the additional benefit of talking with the local people by doing this.

Where may I charge my smartphone?

This is a very active question now. Even for people locally ask this question when they attend meetings and conferences. There is not that many electrical outlets available. And, if you are traveling internationally, you may not have the right plug-in connection.

Modern airports now have more convenient outlets to use in the sitting areas, how many times do we see someone sitting in a chair next to an outlet yet not using it? Should we add a sign on the chair saying, 'reserved for those wanting to re-charge'? Or add re-charge stations now?

I found this lightweight, inexpensive, emergency smart phone recharger which works for me. I can recharge my phone while on the plane or at dinner. And, I keep my phone with me which eliminates a chance of someone stealing the phone.

Please use my link above to purchase a couple to take with you. You do need to carry additional batteries – which I do because of my camera. They are now available in assorted colors to match and blend with your fashion pieces or travel gear. It does help me.

I hope this helps to get prepared for your next trip! Let’s go! ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Silicon Valley Where Past & Present Collides: Do You Remember National Semiconductor?

2013-04-23T15:40:00.001-07:00

Early Silicon Valley History and our Semiconductor Industry

I have been actively reading local articles in the Mercury News about our Silicon Valley history because of our new neighborhood center construction in Mountain View, CA, The Village at San Antonio Center. On this land of the new neighborhood plan lies an old, neglected, one story building, which holds the story of a significant event of our technology history.

Today, Silicon Valley is a blend of companies. Don't forget that our region was coined Silicon Valley from a journalist because of the many semiconductor companies created through 1940s to 1970s.

I was on my way home from an event in San Francisco last week, when I looked at the time on my car clock, there was still time to make it, so I decided to go undercover to a city council meeting because I was curious of what was happening with these plans. I went to the Mountain View City Council Study Meeting. I walked away with a new understanding of their plans.

I listened closely to the members of this City Council as they made valid comments, concerns, and approaches about how the building plans should go forward. They listened to architect planners and to the public. Most of the members seem to want to keep the same quaint Mountain View flavor and with local retail businesses even as they enter into the new modern neighborhood.

My only focus is to save this one building. I learned a great deal about this awesome new neighborhood transition that is coming and that there were many other concerns too.

I do know there is a way to save and protect one piece of Silicon Valley history, and revitalize the old building of Shockley Semiconductor - keep as a museum where people may learn essential ingredients of how this Valley began - and still build our new neighborhood around our history. Let people walk and ride their bikes past it everyday. (See photos and video of this site in link above)

The activities on this site led to several developments in the semiconductor industry. Workers left Shockley Semiconductor and created Fairchild Semiconductor as the second generation of this industry. Several familiar corporate companies were created from business people who worked at Fairchild. Three significant companies were Advanced Micro, Intel, and National Semiconductor.

A company I recently watched transition the last two years is National Semiconductor. It was acquired by yet another company. I took pictures to remember this.

From National Semiconductor to Texas Instruments - Image by D West

The National Semiconductor corporate campus is still the same, only with new paint and fresh updates, and now a new sign change.

Do you know about the Early Days?

National Semiconductor actually started in 1959 in Danbury, CT, to provide transistors for second generation computers. They moved to the west coast because of an acquisition of a small integrated circuit company, Molectro.

A year later, a former executive of Fairchild Semiconductor, Charles Sporck, became CEO and moved into a single-building with a leaking roof in Santa Clara. Sporck led the team through this early period which made him the CEO with the longest tenure (during this period).

National Semiconductor on Kifer - Image by D West

Hightlights of 1968 - 1983 period

Increased revenues to $1 billion by 1983, making National Semiconductor the first Silicon Valley company to surpass the $1 Billion milestone
Expansion in Europe and Malaysia
Move to the current site on Kifer Road, Santa Clara

Insiders interest:
National Semiconductor acquired Fairchild Semiconductor sites located in Maine and State of Washington in 1987

The company was reorganized and transformed in the 1990s. Today: National Semiconductor was acquired by Texas Instruments in 2011.

Will our Past and Present get to collide and stay together
in Silicon Valley? ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Comments are welcome...

Silicon Valley history dates and stories are from "The Making of Silicon Valley : A One Hundred Year Renaissance"

Still Remembering Santa Cruz, CA: Just Because I Can

2013-04-07T18:30:00.002-07:00

I drive over the hill to Santa Cruz to escape. I don't think of Santa Cruz as a tour destination for myself.

I think of Santa Cruz as a different, fun region where I go to explore all of the unfamiliar nooks and crannies that I can find as I escape from my own daily life. I have done this for ... well...let's say for many years. (Remember, I am not a day over 39, and yes, for those of you that know me I am borrowing this line from Jack Benny's famous joke, as I am not yet ready to admit to anything yet).

On my last trip over to Santa Cruz at the end of March, I followed my own advice, and I stepped off my own beaten path or route of my favorite things to do.

On this day I found the streets congested with traffic as it was the Friday before Easter weekend. I know this community grows beyond its 60,000 residents and happy to share with any of them their fun activities on days like this.

What I did, I stop and ponder, how many other people might do?

I have followed the local news stories of the passing of our two Santa Cruz police officers, and heros, and there is something which spoke to me of this special region. I don't recall any incidents like this through the years I have been going to this small community of Santa Cruz. I always feel safe on these streets. Even though I may not know everyone directly - I feel welcome to stop to talk to all of the locals.

I saw reminders during this trip. I took the time to stop at the Santa Cruz Police Department and found these reminders that are still being shared by the public in front.

Santa Cruz Police Dept Tribute

Flags were still lowered ...

Santa Cruz Police Department

Surfers Lighthouse

Would you, as a stranger who is unfamiliar of visiting this region, know what had happened and think to ask someone about this?

What made this trip so different for me this time?

"Remember, we only have today, tomorrow is not here, and yesterday is gone. I believe we should enjoy every moment and experience that we can. We have choices, I choose to be happy everyday," as spoken by Jean Jennings Bartik, Eniac Women Pioneer, at the Computer History Museum.

I will share later some of the other fun things I did it did, ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Foggy Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

2013-03-22T15:08:00.002-07:00

Fun Friday Picture

Bridge to no where? Do you really want to cross this bridge when you come?

Do you ever have the kind of day where you just do not know what lies ahead or on the other side? (Disclosure: This picture was not taken today.)

Travel tip: Be prepared for all weather conditions when in San Francisco.

One of my favorite quotes:

"Happiness is found along the way,

not at the end of the road" ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Art is the New Gold Found in Our Sierra Hills,CA

2013-03-17T18:44:00.000-07:00

Travel tip:
As I remind you to remember to step off the beaten path in Northern California (again and again) ~~ this time I recommend for you to go visit some of our fabulous local artists. I must say there still is 'gold' in our hills with artists like this one (below).

This artist's work (drawings, paintings, and sculpture) may be found at Hanford St. Gallery, in Amador County through March. Please direct your interest and questions to the Gallery.

David Camardo

From Horse Shoeing to Art

Picture credits to Hanford St Gallery website and you may read more in an article in Sierra Lodestar

So much to discover locally ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Happy St Patricks Day!

Women and Classic Cars Start in Germany

2013-03-15T12:19:00.004-07:00

This is month's travel tip is in a fun story...

I enjoy the pre-planning of my trips because I am obsessed with the research to get acquainted with the region before I go. I love my new technology tools which makes it easier to connect to new friends and learn stories about history in communities in far away lands before my travels.

I am not sure whether it is discovering my own German roots or simply that my brothers always tease me about my own driving - I really connected to this special story I want to share with you.

Women and Cars Date Back to the 1800s

I have seen many articles this month about Danica Patrick, NASCAR driver. As I dig deeper into my research of German history, I uncovered a fun story I want to share about another woman driver – the first woman driver many years ago. I chuckle as I write this because it may even be the first account of a stolen car too.

I know almost everyone is familiar with how Mercedes-Benz started. There is a hidden story that recently caught my eye. Carl Benz invented the first patented car in 1886 (Reich Patent No. 37435, information from the southwest Germany tourism website).

There are many questions that surround this invention during the early years because Carl would only travel short distances around town in the car. However, Carl continued to tinker around with his invention for a couple of years. And no one paid much attention to what he was doing.

Except one person. A woman who wanted to see her mother.

Bertha Benz - Courtesy of Daimler AG

It was Carl’s wife, Bertha, who was getting rather anxious and tired of how long Carl was taking with his darn invention. And, because she wanted to go somewhere – take a trip to visit her Mother – she started planning out her idea. Bertha knew this trip idea would not be well received if she approached her husband about it and he would never permit her to take one of the cars out for this distance.

So instead of asking in advance, Bertha sneaked out early one morning along with her two sons and took the car for the 60 mile round trip to visit her mother. She made the 60 miles without complications.

Can you imagine the look on Carl's face when he went to his shed that morning, opened the doors, and found his invention missing?

From Mannheim to Pforzheim in Southwest Germany

Remember the road conditions are not as we know today. Bertha probably traveled over a one-lane dirt road. Where does one fill up with fuel?

Bertha stopped at a pharmacy - the first known filling station - in Wiesloch to fill up the car about half way along the route – because she knew Carl used ligroin, a solvent-like petroleum only sold by pharmacists.

The car Bertha actually chose to drive was a model 3 which Carl had designed with an extra seat and it had an extra place for her sons to sit.

This trip is the one that received attention from the public of Carl’s invention, the horseless carriage invention. Although Bertha did pre-plan the trip, I am not sure she thought about the results it would have in the future.

Is Bertha a courageous woman? I do think she is. I also believe she went on the trip simply because she wanted to getaway to visit her relatives.

1888 Model III Motorwagen Courtesy of Daimler AG

Remember not to fret about opinion differences between couples (and friends and family) as they may turn out to be million dollar ideas.

Travel Tip: We may follow this fun trip when visiting Germany and retrace the famous memorial route from Mannheim to Pforzheim in southwestern Germany.

Hint: Don't forget to visit the Carl Benz Museum just outside Mannheim.

Cäcilie Bertha Benz (maiden name Ringer)
born on May 3, 1849 in Pforzheim,
deceased on May 5, 1944 in Ladenburg

Credits:
Images courtesy of Daimler AG

I am grateful to connect to ~ and thank you to my new friends at TourComm Germany on behalf of the State Tourist Board Baden-Württemberg for sharing much of this information which I assembled and used in this story!

You may find additional information on the Bertha Benz website.

Women and Classic Cars ~ another fabulous story for

Women's History 2013 ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Remember Santa Cruz CA

2013-03-07T11:30:00.001-08:00

There are no words today while I watch the the coverage happening in San Jose CA at the HP Pavilion ...somber day. Santa Cruz Police good byes. Communities come together....

Santa Cruz, CA (Courtesy of DW)

Remember our Santa Cruz community today ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Different Ways our Youth May Travel to Discover Germany

2013-02-21T14:53:00.003-08:00

A travel trend with the Boomer Generation now is multiple-generation trips. The baby boomer generation likes to travel and now has more time to go with their grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or younger adults on family trips and it is safer way to travel for our youth – plus it helps our active parents.

I like to take my younger relatives (nieces, nephews, and cousins) on my trips where we discover together the places our ancestors lived in Germany in the late 1800s and early 1900s and where our current relatives live today. Our young adults and children are not able to get the in depth information about the local German history from our history books. And a bonus, it is even better when we show and experience our personal stories together rather than talk about them as we pass these traditions along.

Multiple generation travel is not a new idea. Leisure travel began primarily with wealthy people who wanted to see buildings, art, and cultures in faraway regions, and often this meant going as a family. I read stories in my old family letters about the trips my Grandmother (born and lived in Germany until she migrated to USA in early 1900s) went on with her family in the 1890s. I admit, their travels usually had a purpose and may not have been for leisure. It is fun to trace these family roots and to check out the new attractions in Germany with my great-nieces. My childlike personality seems to shine when I am with them and it is is win-win situation for everyone.

Traveling with our younger relatives strengthens our relationships within our families. I wrote in my original June 4, 2010 article from Suite101.com: “Often, we don't think about the natural bond created between people while traveling together.” It is a natural, fun way to create this through our trips.

Sure, at first, we may begin with a couple of heated discussions because we have different ways of doing things. We need to remember to be patient and flexible – and learn to adjust our needs on both sides as we start.

Parents may be focused on work during the rebound of the economy and not as available for vacations with their children. In a multi-generational trip, grandparents and older relatives (Aunts, Uncles, and mentors) can get the chance to enjoy some travel time and get better acquainted with the younger adults and children in their family.

An example of this was seen in the 2010 movie, Letters to Juliet. Three characters, grandmother, son, and a young writer, travel together on short car trips in search of something. As in the movie, not everyone in real life has immediate family available to travel with. A mentor, or person who helped out at some time, even acted like an adopted parent, may also enjoy traveling with children.

And, what better goal, to use our own ancestor research with our trips. These are stories which are passed on as they get older.

My travel tip is to be sure one establishes a few simple ground rules while planning for multi-generational trips. This is a great time for younger relatives to connect, learn to be flexible, and learn new ways of doing things by observing how the older adults handle travel situations.

And vice versa, remember older adults learn new ways too! Things like new technology tools and apps, as they celebrate with someone during fun bier festivals, eating Nuremburg sausages and German pastries, and exploring unusual German car museums.

There are so many ways we may get acquainted through travel ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Images Credits from:

Book on the map - Photographer: Alexandre Menard 06/15/2008

Every year, the Old Town Festival attracts about a million visitors to Nuremberg's Old Town. About 60 events with 800 participants offer free entertainment: folk, plays by Hans Sachs, traditional fishermen's jousts, as well as jazz concerts. Photographer Uli Kowatsc 2001

Request a list of tips of how to multi-generations travel together by email.

San Francisco Tradition: Sourdough is now in Silicon Valley

2013-02-06T15:55:00.001-08:00

I am excited to say that I had lunch today at one of my own favorite restaurants, Boudin SF ...

However, I did not go to my favorite San Francisco restaurant located on the Fisherman's Wharf. I went to one of their newest locations in Sunnyvale CA. (The link above gives the sourdough story)

I am very pleased to have easy access to purchase my my favorite sourdough bread with free parking... I am still debating whether or not it may be too close for my own good health. (grinning)

And yes, there is still one thing I did miss today - that fabulous view of the bay while eating lunch.

It will make those last minute cravings a bit easier to manage now without driving to San Francisco.

Boudin SF in Sunnyvale CA

It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner ...and with loaves of bread available to purchase.

Spotting new things in Silicon Valley ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Sunnyvale Boudin SF
701 Sunnyvale Saratoga Road,
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
408-419-0777

Following San Francisco Bay Area Sports

2013-02-02T13:30:00.001-08:00

Fun Friday (or is it Saturday?) ... look at this unusual billboard I saw today.

As I was driving down the El Camino Real in Santa Clara, CA, this billboard caught my eye. Is there ice in San Jose CA now?

Be careful of falling palm leaves on the ice!

Yes, there is. This region is transforming: from SF Giants baseball to SF49er football country to SJSharks Hockey.... before our eyes.

I will be cheering the San Francisco 49ers this weekend wearing my SF baseball cap and World Champions T-Shirt and with deep concentration of being careful of the icy weather coming soon with Sharks hockey!

Do I dare step outside in my new fashionable outfit? ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Off Season Travel Plans: Think About the Region You Visit

2013-01-30T15:57:00.001-08:00

January is the time we plan and prepare for our trips for the year. Many of us might only take one trip a year so we ensure every detail is what we really want to do. Others may schedule the time away in advance and then make last minute plans as they go. The planning method doesn’t matter as we are all different in how we do things.

This month's travel tip for you: remember to ask about the region and things like the weather, attractions, and events you may find.

Bundled up and playing in the surf, Santa Cruz, CA by DW

Some travelers take advantage of off season travel with less crowds and lower prices. Be flexible during the off season as there may not be the same opportunities. When I wrote about my three favorite trips during the off season in 2010 – I included some of challenges I encountered.

An example is the fabulous idea of visiting Victoria, Canada in December. I found really low hotel room rates at The Fairmont Empress Hotel by going before the holidays in December. One of my friends mentioned the idea of flying a seaplane from Seattle to Victoria. It is a fun thing to do - in clear weather!

I searched and found a reliable company providing this service and made reservations. After arriving at Sea-Tac Airport I had to transfer from Sea-Tac Airport to where they took off in downtown Seattle. I quickly discovered because of the dense visibility (fog and rain) there was a chance the seaplanes might not depart. Oh no, now what? We even boarded the plane and took off, only to return ten minutes later. I changed my plans and took a ferry the next day. I enjoyed the rest of the trip with an English Tea at The Empress, winter holiday lights at Buchart Gardens, museums, and shopping in downtown Victoria.

I admit you may think this is probably common sense – it is very easy to forget to do a quick search of the region you are visiting as you get caught up in making other travel plans. This is when a travel consultant will help guide you with recommendations.

Yes, there are dog friendly beaches in Santa Cruz CA by DW

Please don’t tell anyone that one of my favorite unusual off season trips is through northern California in the winter – if you come, do bring a raincoat or umbrella with your sunglasses ~~ The Fun Tour Guru

Go San Francisco 49ers! Super Bowl 2013

New Years Wishes for New and Old Traditions

2012-12-31T12:24:00.002-08:00

What is your tradition? I am grateful to have experienced several opportunities of joining in with other people’s traditions.

Finding California Gold, miners searched in mountains, I simply walked in Santa Cruz - Photo by DW

Perhaps I am I searching for the same traditions I learned as a young girl, or, it is the curiosity of what other people do, whether it is family or community.   I discard the old saying, “Curiosity killed the cat” – and I learn by watching and listening to the people around me.

I searched the internet with the keyword “tradition” receiving 140,000,000 results. I looked up the dictionary meaning of tradition – I found four descriptions:
1
a : an inherited, established, or customary pattern of thought, action, or behavior (as a religious practice or a social custom)
b : a belief or story or a body of beliefs or stories relating to the past that are commonly accepted as historical though not verifiable
2
: the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction
3
: cultural continuity in social attitudes, customs, and institutions
4
: characteristic manner, method, or style

Remember that traditions are different from habits, or behavior patterns acquired by frequent repetition (as written in the dictionary). Traditions and information passed to you through the years by your family and community.   I believe you may create new traditions to pass to people too.

We inquire about our family ancestors we did not get to meet while growing up - these people are a part of us and our traditions.

One lesson I have learned is everyone has individual traditions – these are very important to each one of us. Even people in the same families and communities hang on to different traditions - ones that may resonate with them.

I have learned a great deal from sitting down and listening to people, actually listening to their thoughts, actions, and behaviors. What is important about each person and their traditions they enjoy?

Escape to my walking trail - Photo by DW

I return home and cherish my own traditions. I have multiple traditions, some I grew up with like eating buckwheat pancakes on a cold, holiday morning (raised in the midwest) – some I am creating on my own like looking for unusual items on my walks by the ocean on holiday weekends after eating my buckwheat pancakes. I follow this action of taking walking trips at home and in my travels in different regions.

Instead of resolutions this year - What tradition do you follow or have you made?

2013 ~ I discard some unusual memories of the challenges last year ~ grateful to have an angel on my shoulder ~ and I am ready for the New Year ~ Smiles! The Fun Tour Guru

Silicon Valley Story: Includes Traffic, LinkedIn Buildings

2012-12-19T13:09:00.000-08:00

As I get caught in traffic on Highway 101 (the San Francisco bay area inner freeway) I find myself fighting my negative thoughts of traffic that I face. I really do love this region – even with moments like this – laughing, I am repeating this out loud over and over until the traffic clears up.

I remember something I read from an entrepreneur blog this morning - even though Silicon Valley is an open place to share – there are certain ideas we embrace that are found and shared only by the token (millions) few who live here.

I have not been as active writing – I am active gathering more stories. I did want to share my new addition – I was grateful to attend a meeting on LinkedIn campus. They have their branding present on the main building now. The last picture I took in 2011 was of their front sign only. They now have their sign on the building. The professional place where people connect and link in to each other online. One of our favorites companies right now...

I finish my inbound trips returning to Silicon Valley by reading the following paragraph from

Mary Bowden Carroll “Ten Years in Paradise” (1903) :

Silicon Valley is a place of legend and hyperbole. Promoters have lauded it as “the center of a progressive force for global change" through technology. Social activists claim it to be “a place of warped and unrealistic financial expectations - where success is measured in terms of dollars, not personal happiness.”

For most of its residents Silicon Valley is simply an exciting and challenging place to work and live surrounded by spectacular scenery with an unbeatable climate. They just have to share these considerable benefits with a large number of fellow residents, all of whom seem to want to travel on the same freeway at the same time.

Silicon Valley spills into Santa Cruz to San Francisco and beyond even to Sacramento

~ sharing our story ~ The Fun Tour Guru

San Juan Bautista Coastal Hills in California

2012-11-21T18:36:00.005-08:00

My tip this week, I imagine and tell the story in the picture. My location in this picture is in the coastal hills less than 2 hours south of San Francisco and the San Francisco-Oakland Bay bridge which I shared with you last week.

This picture was taken the day in October when I was working as a volunteer with our state historical park. I stood up to stretch my legs and turned around. This is what I saw: the background drop of this historical town is a cloud puff in the blue sky hanging over the California coastal hills with a white fence meandering up the hill. I could envision myself as a painter with a canvas to share this with everyone. Or perhaps, I now understand why John Steinbeck wrote so many stories about growing up in this region.

I love the variety of landscapes I find everyday. This is my backyard.

San Juan Bautista, San Benito County CA - Photo Credit: D West

Insiders tip: Behind the first hill you see in the picture lies the San Benito Wine Trail where I remember some of my favorite wineries.

What do you see in the picture?

My wish to all of my USA friends and family for a warm, safe,
and Happy Thanksgiving!

And, I am sending positive thoughts to everyone else (globally) this week.

Thank you! ~ The Fun Tour Guru

San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge

2012-11-11T18:39:00.002-08:00

Editor's note: Happy Birthday to our Bay Bridge! ---> 75 years ago on November 12, 1936.

I know this picture with the San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge is unusual and want to share with everyone.

My table view in San Francisco - Oct 2012 by DWest

Of course the Golden Gate Bridge is popular with tourists visiting San Francisco – we sometimes forget the stories of our other bridge ~ San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. With everyone going into the city from the East Bay region now, the San Francisco Travel website says this bridge has become the third busiest in the country, carrying more than 250,000 vehicles daily.

If you are riding with someone else and look closely, you will see the new parts of The Bay Bridge – or what we call 'the seismic retrofit project' - it is estimated total of $6.3 billion dollars making it one of the largest public works projects in US history. (cost is taken from the Bay Bridge website)

I found this unusual story:

A troll looks over this bridge. The Bay Bridge troll story was first made public when the San Francisco Chronicle ran the story on Jan. 15, 1990. The troll, a symbol of protection, appeared on the Bay Bridge after the 1989 earthquake by iron workers without official knowledge and consent of Caltrans during repairs of the bridge. The troll is 18-inches with a spud wrench and welded to the iron below the upper deck on the north side of the bridge. Yes, they do have plans to relocate the troll when the original east span is taken away.

View of Bay Bridge and Treasure Island 2010 by DWest

Best Sightseeing:

For fabulous views of the city of San Francisco, take the Treasure Island exit from The Bay Bridge. Although there is no pedestrian access to this bridge, Treasure Island is accessible by bus if you don't have a car available.
For great views of the Bay Bridge, follow the Embarcadero water front.

Don't forget the Bay Bridge in your sightseeing trips ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Find more details and updates of the seismic retrofit at the Bay Bridge website.

Chasing Mavericks, Santa Cruz CA - 5 Stars

2012-10-29T19:56:00.005-07:00

Santa Cruz, CA: I give Chasing Mavericks the movie - 5 stars.

I went to see the movie, Chasing Mavericks, that was released on Friday, Oct. 26. It is the story of a local surfer legend in Santa Cruz, Jay Moriaty. I really enjoyed it and would like to see it again on the big screen! And, I talked with people as I was walking out after the movie who shared the same enthusiasm as I. This is rare for me to stop and talk to strangers about a movie as I leave. There is something about the movie which pulls at you.

Surfing in Santa Cruz - by DW

I was a concerned after I watched this movie review by Don Sanchez (local ABC news - San Francisco) who gave it a "half a bucket of pop corn." Sanchez mentioned the waves were the stars and said the remaining movie didn't have much dialogue and slow moving.

I disagree.

I do agree about pictures of the huge waves were stars - the plus is that you get acquainted with a sample of people from this town which is so different from Silicon Valley, San Francisco, and Sacramento. You know I share many discoveries of this small beach town every chance I get. I escape the city-life and find places to relax and talk with the locals in Santa Cruz to learn about this "other life" that surrounds the world of surfing. Everyone goes to work - there is always time to catch a few waves before going home. And, the movie is recent - many people remember this.

This movie gives an in depth look at this simple, local community life in this favorite beach town which I am spellbound everytime I visit. It is fresh look showcasing the genuine life of people in Santa Cruz. The story- telling of surfing life is one that has not been shown.

Chasing Mavericks - Santa Cruz CA by DW

There is a second message in the movie also provides a lesson of how to stay focused and be patient and resilient when your are enroute to accomplishing what you want to achieve. Achievements are different for everyone. Moriaty had many chances to drop his goal to ride the big one (wave) - he stayed on his path and achieved what he wanted to do in a short amount of time without a huge expense. He found people who helped in their own ways along the path.

Santa Cruz is well known globally - as the town grows during the summer months with visitors - yet I find an unusual ambience with each visit.

If you want to visit the same sights as you see in the movie - you may find information from Santa Cruz website.

Live Like Jay!

Be sure to go see this movie - and share your thoughts here! The Fun Tour Guru

My Day as a Park Champion at San Juan Bautista State Historical Park CA

2012-10-22T16:37:00.001-07:00

Today's travel tip: A working vacation? It is fun, and everyone is able to do something. Keep it simple, like volunteering a half day somewhere - example is in state parks.

My radio alarm turned on at 6 a.m. My sleepy body is saying, "On no, this is Sunday, should I really get up and drive 60 miles so I may transition into a gardener and painter or roll over and fall back to sleep?"

I staggered out of bed and found my way through the early morning autumn darkness into the kitchen to make a pot of coffee. I knew if I found some way to overcome this initial lazy thought – today would produce:

Adventure. Exercise. Learning. New friends. Fun.

Park Champions - Gardeners - Working Together - by DW

I have been reading newsletters from California State Parks Foundation for a long time about activities and things to do. I follow the list of state parks in need of Park Champions and signed up to help with San Juan Bautista State Historical Park – I knew this would be an unusual, fun way to give back to the community. I admit when the day arrived, it was very difficult to climb out of my warm blankets on my bed and get ready.

We worked together painting this fence!

Even though I have spent time on my Grandfather's farm, I have never had a garden of my own and I have limited painting experience. I know there are people eager to show you – I found all you have to do is bring a hat, wear close toe shoes, take a re-usable water bottle, and anymore favorite sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen) – work gloves if you have them, and a smile.

Park Champions at San Juan Bautista Historical Park - CA by DW

Our Park Officials provide tools, training, more water, lots of energy and their own wonderful smiles. Plus, they are so appreciative to have people to join them in care-taking of resources.

I found my way into this small group of strangers of all ages coming together in the early morning with one common pledge – to help clean up this fabulous State Historical Park I have shared with you in other stories. Yes, we had our smart phones to post pictures and share – we escaped sitting behind the computer finding so many surprises during the day - which I will gradually share.

I don’t want to turn this into a political blog or debate today – I remembered two things as I worked. One is the the movie, Karate Kid, learning about building patience and strength through everyday work. And, as the history enthusiast, I remembered all of the different Work Progress Administration projects completed during President Roosevelt’s New Deal programs. Why not hire people to work on projects like these? True, the wages were low - this begins rebuilding our country's infrastructure while providing paid jobs to people - the same people who buy things. (Ideas flowing... )

Working behind the scenes as State Park Champions - by DW

I am grateful I got out of bed yesterday and volunteered as a Park Champion and helped take care of one of my favorite places I go to – San Juan Bautista State Historical Park. I have gained new skills of gardening, white-washing a fence, and met a fabulous group of people at the same time. Fun! Of course, I slept well through the night afterwards!

I will share more pictures and stories of my day as a Park Champion ~ working at San Juan Bautista Historical Park. ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Questions? Do you want to join? Leave your comments and I will be glad to share how you may help us.

At the Top: Santa Cruz CA Beach Boardwalk Roller Coaster

2012-10-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

Today's travel tip: Don't delay your plans. You never know what may happen in the future. If you want to go somewhere special - make your plans and go.

I have not been writing too much this month as life's events get in the way. It is interesting how readers want us to share consistently - without knowing what bloggers may be doing when not online. Sometimes we have to re-group and take time away. I am still here.

Today, I am returning back to Santa Cruz, CA with some fun pictures of the Beach Boardwalk.

What happens in the split second you reach the top of Roller Coaster? Please share your story today - I enjoy reading what other people write too.

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - Giant Dipper 2012 by DW

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk - DW

Giant Dipper Roller Coaster Santa Cruz CA - DW

Unusual roller coaster pictures from Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk ~ The Fun Tour Guru

NetApp Tech Rocks (Found) in Sunnyvale CA

2012-09-26T18:31:00.000-07:00

This week in Silicon Valley ... south of Moffett Field, in Sunnyvale, CA

NetApp Technology rocks.

No, I am not talking about rockstars, although this NetApp is consistent with earnings, growth, and open employee culture.

I started poking around their campus and actually found these NetApp Technology rocks on each side of a walking path close to Building 1. Look closely at the design stamped on the inside.

NetApp Technology Rocks in Sunnyvale, CA

I think everyone may become obsessed with two or three key technology companies always in the news ~ please remember the stories of several other companies - ones not in the headlines everyday, yet contribute to worldwide business everyday.

NetApp Technology

Of course , there are the stories of the suppliers - pipeline to each of these companies - selling their goods and services to all of these key companies ~ this is Silicon Valley.

#6 Best Company to Work For - Fortune

This company: NetApp Technology

Founder: Dave Hitz
NetApp Technology, a public corporation, has an open employee culture and with solid revenues the past 7/8 years. And they are celebrating #6 Best Company to Work For 2012.
In 1992, founder Dave Hitz writes the first storage operating system with WAFL® (Write Anywhere File Layout), improving storage performance and efficiency.

NetApp Technology - Walking through the rocks

What do they do? They sell data management systems - I found a fun, non-techical description written on Dave Hitz's blog about what they really do. They help large organizations manage all of the data - information flowing around.

Keep it simple for everyone in Silicon Valley ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Images - Courtesy of DW, click and enlarge to see details.

Spot the Shuttle: Endeavor Sunnyvale/Mountain View CA

2012-09-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

I played the spot the shuttle game today ....

The historic flight of Endeavor Shuttle flying on NASA 747 Shuttle Carrier left this morning from Edwards Air Force Base flying over Sacramento, San Francisco and Silicon Valley (near Moffett Field).

Although I was not quite positioned to catch the best view and my pictures show as a "dot" in the sky ~~ it was fun to gather with everyone to see the Endeavor on its finale voyage. I saw people pull their cars off on the side of the road in order to get a glimpse of this.

I was playing the live stream from NASA Ames Research website showing the crowd gathering at Moffett Field while I snapped this series simultaneously.

Spot the Shuttle: Endeavor in Sunnyvale & Mountain View CA

Picture A - this is interesting as it captures Endeavor with a bird flying in the top third of the picture.

Spot the Shuttle: Endeavor A with bird

Spot the Shuttle: Endeavor B

Spot the Shuttle: Endeavor C

You may read more information on Endeavors historic flight in this Mashable article.

And a recorded copy of the live stream from Ames Research Center at Moffet Field. You will find the shuttle at 8 minutes into the video.

Spotting the Endeavor flying over Silicon Valley ~ The Fun Tour Guru

Santa Clara CA Art & Wine Festival: Behind the Scenes

2012-09-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

This weeks find ... the behind-the-scenes preparation is a lot of work

Every year I set aside one weekend in September to go to this local festival on Saturday and Sunday. Of course, I am somewhat biased, as I live in Santa Clara, I find this festival is a bit different because it takes place in our Central Park and not on Main Street, downtown.

Up goes my fave winery sign at the festival -DW

I really love this particular park because Central Park emcompasses 50 acres - with a creek running through the middle, a lake with fountains. two ball parks, tennis courts, bocce ball, picnic areas, stage areas, and of course our world famous International Swim Center gains much attention. And, our fabulous main library is adjacent to the park. Fun!

Artists set up at Festival - DW

This year I stumbled on the set up activities before the festival. I realized that I take this huge festival for granted.

I forget about the preparation to bring festivals like this together. All through the year, it is efforts from people like our city park and recreation officials, city organizers, local volunteers, and even the artists creating their goods for this - I am sure there are many more I need to include.

Stage ready for rockin bands - DW

The preparation of events like these is story in itself - our community coming together to ensure we have two days of this fun local gathering. I am glad I was able to view a small part of this preparation this year. Festivals like this - not just in Santa Clara, happen all through local communities across the world.

Volunteers patrol on bikes - DW

Hats off to all people, and especially the unidentified people who help, behind the scenes every year creating these experiences for us!

See you at this local festival ~~ The Fun Tour Guru

Yes, you may follow more of these set up festival pictures on Instragram, meetdonnaw. Please excuse the picture quality as they were taken from an iPhone at dusk.

Local Art Gems in Santa Cruz, CA

2012-09-08T15:02:00.001-07:00

Even though I make frequent trips to the town of Santa Cruz, with each trip I seem to always find some real gems which catch my eye in this fun town. Last year I wrote about their new round-a-bout intersection.

Yes, I admit I am usually looking at surfers and sea otters - on this trip I kept seeing beautiful murals, sculptures, and traffic art throughout the streets.

After some quick research, I discovered that we may even take a self-guided "SculpTOUR" through these Santa Cruz streets. You may even download a map and follow this walking tour. This has been made available because of a small organized program developed by the locals in 1998 to display local artists creations - which brings a fresh look at everyday scenes we walk and drive through. And, yes there are sand sculptures on the beach by the boardwalk too.

I was particularly drawn to the Graphic Traffic project - art on the traffic signal cabinets throughout the city. A neat way to disguise these cabinets on the streets!

Graphic Traffic in Santa Cruz, CA Image by DW

Graphic Traffic - Santa Cruz, CA Image by DW

About this Santa Cruz Arts Program

The murals and sculptures are created by local artists through a city program of the City of Santa Cruz Department of Economic Develpment and Redevelopment, Santa Cruz City Arts works with the Arts Commission, partners and stakeholders to guide and manage this public art program. Staffing is one person, part time.

This program is "dedicated to bring creativity to the streetscape through diversity of placemaking projects, including temporary, permanent, temporal, small-scale and large scale installations".

Tribute to Santa Cruz Surfers Image DW

I continue to see more and more of these fun scenes made by local artists - of all ages. These people are the ones who actually live in and enjoy our small communities everyday.

What an innovating idea to inspire the locals who live in our communities! And they camouflage the progress we sometimes find ourselves complaining of. Big city projects fighting with funds? Take note of how Santa Cruz came together to beautify.

What ideas do you have to beautify your town?

Just think, what a small bit of organization from our locals artists and city working together will do for our communities ~

This week in Santa Cruz, CA ~ The Fun Tour Guru

This Art Program was started in 1998 by a group of local residents - find more information about how they did this at this website, Public Art in Santa Cruz.