Traveling to me means discovering the gems of nature and history around the world.

You know, like looking up to the whimsical spires of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or admiring the iron cherub lamps in Paris next to the River Seine. The visions can take my breath away and the stay locked in my memory forever.

This is a story about the Moravian Tile Works near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I realize that a hundred-year-old factory is not one of the Seven Wonders of the World, but the Moravian Tile Works near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and the talented man behind it, is an inspiring slice of history that I will remember always.

Sitting out in the middle of an ungroomed meadow in rural Pennsylvania sits a slightly crumbly but curious old structure

with smokestacks that from afar look textured somehow. I squint, trying to make it out. Are those bumps deliberate or is the place just falling down?

Pulling the car into a small parking lot around back, I get out and see that the smokestacks are ringed with colorful tiles. And the entire structure looks to be made of concrete, giving it a grungy and rustic look. But inlaid under the roof eaves are beautiful picture tiles glazed in reds and blues, belying the grunge factor.
A simple walkway through uncut grasses leads me to a dark-stained ancient wooden door whose wrought iron latch has gone flummoxed so a hand-written note is tacked there, instructing, “Push down hard on thumb latch.”

Henry Mercer is the incredible Renaissance man

responsible for this building and the fantastic art created here. He’s dead now, having lived in the late nineteenth and into the twentieth century, but a photo of him shows a smiling man in a three-piece tweed suit, hair parted down the center and hugging a big black dog. There’s something about the tilt of his head and his eyes that tell me an intricate story of obsessive curiosity and a passion for living.

Mercer designed and built this unusual building in 1911, copying the look of a Spanish mission. Its all-cement walls echo the look of adobe but last much longer. The purpose of this building? Tiles. Mercer manufactured tiles here that now grace buildings in 44 of the 50 United States, including Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood, Boston’s Gardner Museum, Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, and the Pennsylvania State Capital. At the Capital in Harrisburg, 16,000 square feet of handmade tiny 3 inch tiles depict the history of Pennsylvania, including a tile copy of the painting, “Washington Crossing the Delaware.”

What really strikes me as I pass through low ceilinged hallways in the different factory rooms is that these tiles are not like any I’ve ever seen. They’re elaborate and super colorful with dozens of pieces. For instance, this huge round tile is comprised of jigsaw puzzle-like pieces cut from a slab of clay. A video has explained to me how the original picture was transferred to a huge slab, then the separate pieces cut apart and numbered to keep them organized, then fired. Glazes are poured and painted on and the pieces fired again. Then it’s all put back together like you see here and attached to a cement backing before the grout is added to all the spaces.

This picture is of two large molds for “brocade” tiles, or ones that are more like relief sculptures. Clay is mashed down in the mold, pulled out and glazed before firing in a kiln. The variety and beauty of the tiles is so impressive with the European flavor mixed with the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Back in the day, this old building had seven workers. With their specially made apparatus seen here, two men could produce between 1,500 and 5,500 tiles per day.

My walk through the museum then leads to rooms where artisans – live ones – are still making tiles today. Christine, a nice woman who is making letter tiles that will be installed at the local county courthouse, tells me that Henry Mercer was an early environmentalist. She pointed to the ancient doors of the place with their funny latches, and told me Mercer collected and recycled old wood to make them.

Most of the rooms in the factory are plain square boxes for work to be performed there, but one room near the back of the structure is a large space with a soaring ceiling and stone fireplace rimmed with large tiles. Several columns have curving tops covered with colorful tiles and yet more tiles ring the entire room, some in big blocks, making this room a strange mix of rustic lodge and Indian temple. I can feel Mercer’s personality in this room and I like it. I would have liked to know the man.

Written by Josie Schneider

Josie Schneider is an international house sitter and freelance writer. She blogs about house sitting, travel, good food and wine at: http://www.housesittingtravel.com
Her visit to the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works left a lasting impression.

The Grand County Tourism Board announce its kickoff into summer with a June events lineup. Each community in Grand County offers a different way to celebrate summer from food and entertainment to sports and competition. It’s no wonder folks flock to Grand County where there’s always something grand go-ING on

Hot Sulphur Days Festival: June 7-9
The 48th Annual Hot Sulphur Days Festival is a three-day, community-wide celebration hosted by the town of Hot Sulphur Springs. Homespun fun includes a pie baking contest, pancake breakfast, frisbee golf, kids carnival, car show, the Texas Charlie Shootout, baseball, parade, BBQ lunch, concert in the park, fireworks, and duck races. For more information such as times, locations and sign-ups, visit www.hotsulphurdays.com.

Grand Lake Festival of Arts & Crafts: June 8-9
Grand Lake’s Main Street and the surrounding Town Park area will be a bustle at this year’s outdoor arts and crafts festival where artists and craftsman will display and sell their creations including jewelry, leather work, ceramics, glass work and much more. Visitors can stroll, browse and purchase and then grab a bite to eat nearby. The festival is open Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information call 970-627-3402 or visit http://www.grandlakechamber.com.

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre Opening Night: June 14
Rock Mountain Repertory Theatre (RMRT) returns to the stage for the 2013 season this June. Delighting audiences in Grand Lake since 1960, RMRT delivers professional, live performances to theater-goers of today at the $5.2 million venue newly built in 2011. Tickets for the 2013 summer season available at 970-627-3421or www.rockymountainrep.com.

Kremmling Days: June 14-16
It’s the best of Kremmling at this annual three-day event. The Town Square in Kremmling will offer loads of activities and entertainment like cliff golf, live music, a parade, the Cow Pie Classic 3 and 5 Mile Run, beer garden, food and crafts vendors and much more! Details available at 970.724.3472 or www.kremmlingchamber.com.

State Chili Cook Off: June 22
Colorado’s mother of all chili cook offs is the “official” Red, Green, and Salsa State Championships. Held Saturday, June 22, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in Grand Lake’s Town Park, the event is free to the public (BYO antacids). For more information call 970-627-8428 or 970-627-3402.

Blues From The Top Music Festival: June 28-30
The Grand County Blues Society presents its 11th annual kick-off-the-blues weekend, June 28-30. Jamming begins Friday and reprises throughout the weekend at several different Winter Park venues. Some shows are free, and others cost just $20. Tickets and the performance line-up online at www.GrandBlues.org.

Winter Park Half Marathon: June 29
Runners of all levels are in for a stunning 13.1-mile race that will take off within walking distance of downtown Winter Park. Rocky Mountain beauty surrounds a remote, single-loop course run almost entirely on dirt roads. All of proceeds benefit the Shining Stars Foundation, bringing hope to children with cancer or other life threatening illnesses. More information at http://www.shiningstarsfoundation.org/events/winter-park-half-marathon.

About Grand County, Colo. (www.visitgrandcounty.com)
Located 67 miles west of Denver, Grand County is home to wide-open spaces, breathtaking mountain scenery and authentic old-west towns. Outdoor recreational activities include golf, boating, fishing, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, skiing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, sleigh rides and tubing. The area features more than 600 miles of mapped and marked trails, one national park, two national forests, two wilderness areas, two national scenic byways, two major ski resorts, five world-class dude ranches and four mountain golf courses. Grand County’s extensive water network includes Colorado’s largest natural lake, 1,000 miles of streams, 1,000 acres of high-mountain lakes and 11,000 acres of reservoirs.

Arkansas River Valley, Colo. (April 8, 2013) - Local rafters and Colorado visitors alike looking to book their summer vacations are assured to fill a bucket list of adventure on Colorado’s Arkansas River.

Not only will rafters be able to boat six different and uniquely beautiful sections of the river, but Arkansas River Outfitters Association (AROA) members are adding combined trips to please every traveler, and fill many blissful spring and summer days.

Some of these adventures include:

Raft + Ziplining
Raft + Mountain Biking (adrenaline-seeking to scenic bike rides)
Raft + Rock Climbing
Raft + Rappelling
Raft + Adventure Park
Raft + Royal Gorge Railroad
Raft + ATV
Raft + Horseback Riding
Battle of the Bighorn Competition
Various combinations of fly fishing, walk/wade and float fishing trips
Inflatable Kayaks
Most AROA outfitters also offer custom and private trips and many offer private function areas, catering and can host special events.

Upcoming Events Along the River:

Wednesday, April 10: 5-7 p.m. Salida Chamber of Commerce Business-After-Hours at the Salida Steamplant. Kickoff to Summer-Stay Another Day.$7.00 charge at the door.
Saturday, April 13: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Buena Vista) 2013 Spring Trade Show and Community Connection.Unveiling of “Stay Another Day” community campaign to encourage visitors to Stay Another Day and enjoy the Arkansas Valley Playground. Middle School Gymnasium.
Thursday, April 18: 2-7 p.m. Canon City & Fremont County Expo- 45 (Outdoor Activities Exhibitors) Abby Gym 2951 Hwy. 50, Canon City. Free Event. Over $1,500 in prizes to be given away. Contact for Judi Paxton, Canon City Chamber of Commerce (719) 275-2331

Quotes:

“In my years on the river, I have literally seen everything. One thing is always the same… the smiles on people’s faces as they head down the river. Really, rafting provides such a unique way to experience the beauty of Colorado, which can only be enjoyed as you float on the water, through the canyon, alongside bighorn sheep, deer and river otters. It is peaceful one minute, and then around the bend, a bit of excitement! Over the years almost all of our customers have told us that rafting the Arkansas River is the highlight of their trip to Colorado.” Bob Hamel, AROA member with over 35 years experience rafting the Arkansas River.

“A great family-friendly rafting trip offers the perfect combination of whitewater adventure and breathtaking scenery. From the bottom of the canyon you can really appreciate the depth and vastness of the area.” Amber Kissack, AROA Member

Heading to Lake Charles, Louisiana

Flash floods saturated nearby fields as my plane slammed onto the runway. Disappointment flooded my soul. Maybe my friends knew something I didn’t? See – my friends’ faces lit up at the mention of Mardi Gras but dimmed when I announced I was celebrating in Lake Charles, Louisiana, instead of New Orleans.

Arriving shaken but safe, squeaky sounds of wet feet on the airport floor heckling me at baggage claim. They shouted louder as an airline official informed me my bag holding my tuxedo was lost in the bowels of the Dallas/Ft. Worth Airport. Without formal attire, I would not be granted entry to the Krewe of Illusions Mardi Gras Ball in mere hours.

Defeated, I had not eaten in 10 hours, I had a driver fetch me. En route to 121 Artisan Bistro, she called a local tuxedo store who announced their closing in less than one hour. So, between amazing bites of fresh grilled tilapia, parmesan-crusted fried shrimp, and chicken & sausage gumbo, I sputtered my inseam and sleeve measurements. Chewing each bite, I prayed for adjustable straps on the waistbands of the rented trousers.

Mardi Gras, Lake Charles Style

Arriving at the L’Auberge Casino and Hotel I found a tuxedo, of perfect fit, hanging in my closet. My spirits lifted, I dressed and bolted to the Bon Temps Express which served as my carriage to the ball. Little did I know a five day mobile feast of simple, delicious food alongside amazing locals had just begun.

Like most, I imagined crowded streets engulfed with half-clothed, drunken bodies wiggling body parts better left covered competing for the widely coveted cheap plastic beads. But, my preconceived notions were swept out the door. What I found in Lake Charles was a community that pushed aside judgments, fears, and worries to celebrate community and each other.

“It’s not the celebration; it’s the cause of the celebration. People develop relationships that are a part of the fabric of life, and it’s come one, come all …doesn’t matter your race, age, creed or socioeconomic status,” said Mayor Randy Roach.

Mardi Gras Chicken Run

On Fat Tuesday, the sun breached the clouds, so I journeyed to rural Iowa, LA, (pronounced eye-oh-way) for the 33rd annual Iowa Chicken Run. “Mardi Gras is messy,” said Joy Huval, owner of the Bon Temp Express. as she smeared gold glitter paint on my face.

It was in Iowa that the Mardi Gras mess came full circle for me. Who knew a port-a-potty, charcoal grill, DJ, ice chest and straw bales on a flatbed trailer could be life altering? Part of a town-wide processional, our float stopped each time a whistle blew. A chicken would be released, and children scurried to catch it. Live Zydeco music emerged from the chaos and the adults danced for the residents of each home.

“Adults run after the chickens when they get too sipped,” said Miss Berline, organizer of this more settlement-oriented style of Mardi Gras celebration, “but it’s really for the children.”

The Mardi Gras Message

Each home our float performed for had celery, rice, and other ingredients needed for gumbo. The best dancer at each stop was awarded one of the food staples as a prize. After hours of dancing and chasing chickens, the floats returned to the town hall where neighbors yarned stories, grilled meats and stewed gumbo.

“Mardi Gras is something everyone should experience once,” said Miss Berline, “It can change the way your family and you interact with each other and the world.”

If Mardi Gras is messy, then life is downright nasty. We are confined by standards of dress, morality, and professionalism impressed upon us by society. The people of Southwest Louisiana taught me to reach beyond stereotypes and standards to celebrate the spirit of life and the human race.

Leaving Lake Charles, Louisiana

Flying home, Miss Berline’s words haunted me as memories of new friends I’d made steeped in my mind. The people of Lake Charles had woven themselves into the fabric of my own life.

Traveling to this region left me patient and forgiving. I learned celebration should be a daily part of life; I now sleep a full eight hours without waking up worried about unimportant nonsense. My only stress is whether or not I’ll catch a chicken next year for my own pot of gumbo, but then again, I’d have to be “sipped”.

Written By Cory Cart

Cory Cart is a freelance travel writer who prefers to “travel like a local” across the US. He celebrates the experiences and people he meets in Lake Charles, Louisiana and elsewhere, by writing on his blog, www.seemybackyard.com, and for many magazines including AAA Home & Away.

Unique Hotel in Portland

“How’s the faux spring weather treating you?” the barista asked as she took my order. Like any Pacific Northwest resident I revel in the unexpected combination of warm temperatures and sunshine during late winter. “Perfect” I reply, returning her smile.

Portland is a heavily caffeinated town, percolated in coffee and smiles. This mind-set is something the Jupiter Hotel is designed for; one half is ready-to-rock with a jolt while the opposite half is a more sedate side. Transformed from the kind of 50′s motor inn popularized by TV series such as Route 66, it no longer resembles the conservative conformity that era reflected. Today murals of famous pop stars adorn the walls, an Indie soundtrack follows me about the grounds, and probably the only things resembling its previous incarnation are the mid-20th century architecture and parking garage below.

Doug Fir Lounge – Portland Music Venue

Jupiter’s rock’n'roll side is home to the Doug Fir Lounge, a nationally recognized venue for established as well as up-and-coming Indie artists. The intimate half-timbered space has room for approximately 300 and sports a stage, a bar, a few tables, and dance floor. Fifty-eight of the eighty-one rooms in the hotel surrounding it are dedicated to the rambunctious among us, and on this side the party doesn’t have to end.

The other half, dubbed the “chill” side, is devoted to business and creative travelers. It’s home to a large outdoor tented event space frequented by corporate names such as Nike, Patagonia, Columbia, and Adidas, and the patio it occupies is surrounded by smaller indoor meeting areas. Jupiter’s creative spirit is well expressed in the artwork on guest room walls, a mannequin mascot with her own Facebook page, and the Art Gallery adjoining the lobby.

Things To Do in Portland

Back at the cafe, this city’s coffee culture is reinforced when asked if I’d like 3 or 4 shots in my latte. I opted for two, my jolt limit, and thoroughly caffeinated, I walked from a section of town ripped straight from Portlandia and over the river to explore the Pearl District. Block by block this former warehouse district is being gentrified with trendy boutiques and cafes. Attracted by the fragrance of Daphne flowers wafting in the air I also dropped in on Chinatown’s Lan Su Gardens for its inner-city tranquility, all the while immersed in the century-old brick that is Old Town. Since part of Portland’s reputation as a green city is in its public transportation, I chose to save my legs for that evening and took the tram back across the river.

Later that night I caught a show at the Doug Fir, and after dancing the night away it was comforting to know a bed at the Jupiter was only steps away.

When You Go
Jupiter Hotel
800 E Burnside Street
Portland, OR 97214
jupiterhotel.com
(503) 230-9200

Doug Fir Lounge
830 E. Burnside Street
Portland, OR 97214
dougfirlounge.com
(503) 231-9663

Written By Steve Smith

Steve Smith inherited the wanderlust and has always needed to see what’s around the next corner. Together with his wife and co-pilot Christine Johnson, their college days were spent enjoying many memorable (and cheap) forays into Mexico sleeping under the stars. Today these excursions are typically press trips and hotels, but gathering unique experiences by getting to know places and people rather than observing as tourists is still their approach to travel. After numerous journeys to North/Latin/South America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, they believe this is the true way to experience different cultures, in Portland and beyond.

Palm Springs, CA – Over the next two months, music lovers will unite in Palm Springs to attend an eclectic mix of concerts, festivals and parties ranging from jazz to electronica to indie rock. Signature events taking place include the White Party, The Dinah, Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival, Palm Springs Opera in the Park, Coachella Music Festival, Tachevah: A Palm Springs Block Party, Stagecoach Country Music Festival, and Brew at the Zoo.

White Party
Dates: March 29-April 1, 2013
Location: Various locations in downtown Palm Springs
Description: The largest gay dance festival in the world, featuring musical entertainment from international singers and DJs. The weekend-long festivities include the Friday Night Bulge Underwear Party, and pool parties on Saturday and Sunday.

The Dinah
Dates: April 3-7, 2013
Location: The Hilton Palm Springs is the host hotel for the pool parties, and special events and dancing will also take place at the Palm Springs Convention Center, Zelda’s Nightclub and Hotel Zoso.
Description: Thousands of women from all over the world will gather in Palm Springs for The Dinah, also known as The Dinah Shore Weekend by Club Skirts. The entertainment roster features artists ranging from pop to dance, and indie music to electronica. A pop sensation duo, KARMIN, will perform their summer hit “Broken Hearted” as the headliner during the “Monte Carlo” party held at the Palm Springs Convention Center on Saturday, April 6, 2013

Palm Springs Women’s Jazz Festival
Dates: April 4-7, 2013
Location: Eight different venues and clubs throughout downtown including host hotel, Alcazar
Description: The festival will include performances by Grammy Award Winner, Terri Lyne Carrington, considered one of the best drummers currently on the contemporary jazz scene; multi-Grammy award nominated artist/pianist/composer/arranger Patrice Rushen; and Tia Fuller on alto-sax, who is also currently playing with R&B superstar Beyoncé’s band.

Palm Springs Opera in the Park
Date: April 7, 2013
Time: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: Sunrise Park in downtown Palm Springs
Description: A free annual concert featuring opera music performances. Visitors may reserve spaces under the tent or bring their own chair and blanket. This year’s featured singers include Vocal Competition winners Anush Avetisyan and Rodell Rosel. A tribute to Jacques Offenbach will be performed as well as performances of “Opera’s Greatest Hits”.

Coachella Music Festival
Dates: Weekend 1: April 12-14 | Weekend 2: April 19-21
Location: Empire Polo Grounds, Indio (30 minutes from Palm Springs)
Description: Annual music and arts festival features many genres of music including alternative rock, hip hop, and electronic music as well as large sculptural art. The event has several stages/tents set-up throughout the grounds, each playing live music continuously.

Tachevah: A Palm Springs Block Party
Date: April 17, 2013
Time: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Location: Parking area – Spa Resort Casino downtown Palm Springs
Description: An outdoor concert between the Coachella Music and Arts Festival weekends featuring a headlining band and three regional unsigned bands picked by Goldenvoice who will perform their original songs. Up and coming DJs will play in between band performances.

Stagecoach Country Music Festival
Dates: April 26-28, 2013
Location: Empire Polo Grounds, Indio (30 minutes from Palm Springs)
Description: Annual three-day country music festival featuring award-winning artists Toby Keith, Lady Antebellum, Dierks Bentley and Zac Brown Band.

Brew at the Zoo
Dates: May 4, 2013
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Location: The Living Desert – 47900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert
Description: The Living Desert will host an evening of live music performances on three stages, while attendees toast a variety of premium craft beers, wine and small bites. All proceeds go to help the world’s endangered animals and preserve the desert landscape.

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and New York Senator Charles Schumer announced today that the Statue of Liberty will reopen on July 4, 2013.

Liberty Island closed on October 29, 2012 due to Hurricane Sandy, but now the icon of freedom will be opening symbolically on the day that America declared its own freedom.”We are pleased that the NPS has announced an official reopening date for the Statue of Liberty along with an enhanced visitor experience with reduced wait times. We are looking forward to putting our crew back to work carrying visitors to the world’s greatest symbol of liberty. In the interim, we offer a great cruise to Lady Liberty with uniformed rangers on board departing frequently from Battery Park,” says Statue Cruises CEO/Founder Terry MacRae.

In anticipation of the reopening, Statue Cruises is expanding its daily Statue of Liberty Harbor Tours, giving visitors even more opportunities to enjoy the closest views of the Statue of Liberty until the official opening date. With up to 20 departures a day, seven days per week, the tours offer visitors and locals exceptional flexibility and choice. Statue Cruises has a tour to fit everyone’s schedule.

Passengers experience the closest possible views of famed New York City landmarks and may even interact with National Park Service Rangers on-board. Rangers will sail on every harbor tour to lend their valuable expertise to passengers. Sites include the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the 9-11 Memorial, the South Street Seaport, Governors Island and the Brooklyn Bridge, among others. The hour-long tours depart from Battery Park at the foot of Manhattan every 30 minutes, seven days a week.

Tickets for the narrated sightseeing tours are $24.00 (adults); $17.00 (seniors) and $12.00 (children). Tours depart daily from Battery Park at the foot of Manhattan. Prior to embarking, passengers can purchase tickets online at www.statuecruises.com, by phone at 201-604-2800, or at the seawall in Battery Park.

The Road to Grand Canyon National Park

I was jolted awake from my deep slumber when the bus hit the unpaved road. The bus driver explained that the last leg to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas was a 10 mile stretch of raw rough terrain. The bus continued to bounce along like an old covered wagon in a classic Western movie. The other adventurers on the bus laughed and smiled as they looked out upon the desert floor, which was inhabited with hundred year old cacti. These ancient plants looked like gnarled hands reaching out to the white sun in the pale azure sky. Among the cacti I spotted a family of bighorn sheep wandering the red, dusty landscape. According to the bus driver, spotting bighorn sheep was a sign of good luck.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk

The first stop was the Grand Canyon Skywalk. This structure was built directly into the side of a sheer cliff wall. Its star attraction was a reinforced all glass walkway that hung directly 4000 feet above the Canyon floor. Looking directly down through the transparent panels, one could see the Colorado River.

Since it was early in the day, I decided explore the rest of the surrounding canyon grounds. I ventured as far as I could to a cliff’s edge and admired Mother Nature’s artwork. One rock took the shape of a sleeping dog. This was appropriate since the sun gave this immense stone canine a bright copper color. Another rock took the form of a noble eagle. Its wings spanned several hundred feet. As the other travelers took their time with the various vistas, I decided to leave for a spot named Guano Point, which was renowned for offering even more monolithic views.

360 View at Guano Point

As I exited the bus, I beheld a peak in the distance, which resembled a giant ant hill. I knew right away that from that spot I would find the best lookout point. Because there were a few other explorers already milling about, I briskly strode down the wide gravel path so that I could be the first to reach the top of the hill’s peak. At the bottom of the rocky hill I proceeded to climb. As I scaled the moderate incline, I was glad to have worn solid and yet comfortable hiking shoes. They made mounting the lesser sized boulders a surmountable feat. My lightweight jacket and cargo pants kept me cool in the bright sunlight and yet protected me from the invigorating wind.

Grand Canyon Location – A Day Trip From Vegas

After a 15-minute heart pumping trek, I finally reached the top. Upon the pinnacle, I was treated to a 360 view that put the previous vistas at the Grand Canyon Skywalk to shame. To my right I could see far off canyon walls. These glittered in the sun and changed colors from pinkish to reddish to purplish hues, as the distant clouds danced across the sky and cast playful shadows upon them. To my left I spied the Colorado River winding across the canyon floor like a giant green snake. Behind me laid the carved path, which I traversed to get to that lookout point. Beyond the path I could see the neighboring mountain range. Out of breath and quite enraptured, I took my tiny canteen out from my mini backup and enjoyed a mouthful of cool water. Later, on the bus ride back to the City of Sin, I was glad to realize that such a tried and true landmark could still culminate in a fresh adventure. All within a brief day’s trip from the glitzy Las Vegas Strip.

Written By Ryan Sangalang

Growing up in the bustling city of Los Angeles, Ryan always dreamed of exploring distant lands. After college, Ryan was bitten by the travel bug! A few years later, he was bitten by something different – the photography bug! He’s now combined these two passions and chronicles some of his adventures through his humble blog at www.ryansangalang.com [3]. When not going on adventures abroad, Ryan is a foodie at heart and enjoys exploring local attractions and restaurants, in places like the Grand Canyon.

With its stunning Spanish Colonial architecture, and large, scenic atmosphere, Holman Ranch offers all the luxury of a more commercial event venue with the comfort and privacy of an estate that even Charlie Chaplin saw as the perfect getaway.

Holman Ranch

First Impressions

As I drove through the hills of Carmel Valley, I came to the gates of Holman Ranch.  After passing lush, green hills underneath blue and cloudy skies, a large stable appeared to my left and, on my right, down a nearby trail, I noticed a small lake that glistened in the sunlight.  Not a bad first impression.

Features: Event Spaces and Accommodations

At the heart of the estate, lies the main plaza, which overlooks the Hacienda and Ceremony Lawns; perfect for weddings of 200+ guests and set with the backdrop of the breathtaking Santa Lucia Mountains.  After taking in the view, I stepped through the gates of The Rose Patio.  This garden courtyard, constructed with gorgeous Carmel Stone, is also fantastic for holding special events such as wedding receptions, corporate events, and family reunions just to name a few.

What makes Holman Ranch even better is its all-inclusive features and amenities for that are great for any occasion.  There is the catering area and bar which are one with The Game Room, complete with a pool table and, like the rest of the estate, decorated in a comfortable and classic hacienda style.  On the opposite side of The Rose Patio lies the luxuriously furnished Conference Room which is perfect for corporate retreats.  Holman Ranch also boasts 19 acres of estate grown vineyards so it goes without saying that there are a variety of impeccable wines to peruse during one’s stay.  Their tasting room is less than a five minute car ride away.

While visiting Holman, I was lucky enough to stay in one of their eight newly renovated guest rooms.  My room was comfortable, charming, provided a lovely view of the ranch, and gave a feeling of ultimate privacy.  There were even two rocking chairs on every porch which I thought was a nice touch.  Holman Ranch works with nearby hotels to accommodate guests for larger events.

These are just a few of the ways Holman Ranch can be utilized for special events.  For more information visit www.holmanranch.com.

Happy Travels!

-Audrey

Thank you for reading! Now you’re in the know about Holman Ranch; a great place to visit for special events and getaways.

Delicious Italian Pastries in Boston

If anyone from outside the city knows about Boston’s Little Italy, they hear about Mike’s Pastries. A mecca of sorts for delectable desserts, people will battle it out through rain, snow and sleet to bring home one of the signature white boxes tied with blue twine.

Now I adore Mike’s just as much as the next Italian pastry lover, but a memorable time can be had in this borough of Boston sans cannoli, which will also save the headache of waiting in line for an hour or more. I made a beeline for Caffe Vittoria instead this round. At this kitschy and sugary-smelling locale, patrons can order a strong espresso, amaretto cordial and a lobster tail as big as their noggins. I don’t mean seafood – I’m talking about a flaky, crunchy treat stuffed with a silky sweet filling.

This was the ideal spot to begin an evening of indulgence in the North End. But, before strolling along the cobblestone streets a little more, I drained my cup and headed back to the main drag where the pedicabs were huddled together. Sure it’s October, but I swear there is no better way to move.

John, my trusty guide, pedaled me all the way to the waterfront for a couple of bucks and some easy-going conversation. He claims there is no better gig in the city, especially in the summer months, but he’ll tough it out through most of fall, too.

A sense of discovery is what inspired me to hop in the bicycle cab with John, cover up in blankets and be rewarded with a whiff of salty air and a classy cocktail by the water.

Night Life Around Boston

The Deli Case at Monica’s in Boston

Every time I come to this place I tend to bump into a hotshot or two, and this night was no exception. There always seems to be a fair amount of West Coast transplants coming back for a trip to their hometown. After a few attempts at networking met with puffed up egos and trendy business cards, I finished up a drink while admiring the view and headed back to the homier North End. After all that, I really don’t know why I ever left.

I connected with an old friend who has earned the trust of several locals, ensuring this excursion would have that special allure of being let in on a secret. This brought me to Four Winds where I took a shot with the ancient bartender as he waxed poetic about the good old days of his Little Italy, although he said there wasn’t nearly as many pretty young women.

Boston’s Approaching Dawn

Hours later, as I begrudgingly stepped out into the sunlight on Sunday, I was greeted by bells from the Old North Church and the rest of the bustling background music of the streets. I had one more stop to make on my way home – Monica’s. Located on Salem Street, this aromatic and savory deli stocks top-notch cured meats, cheeses and homemade pastas. I asked for a massive Italian sub with everything, but was very tempted to take back some cookies and candy, too. If I had tried to eat anything else I might have had to be physically rolled out of the neighborhood.

Instead, I settled for a green tea and hit the road again, meeting friendly smiles from joggers, well-dressed older gentlemen, ladies chatting in gaggles and restaurant owners proudly standing outside their eateries. Whenever my heart longs for the beauty, history, passion and color of Europe, I know all I need to do is wander into Boston’s North End to be welcomed like an old friend into the fold of food and love.

Eileen Cotter is a freelance travel writer who has a few notches in her belt throughout North America, Central America and Europe. She currently resides just outside Boston, Massachusetts. While writing for a wide variety of websites and travel magazines, her preferences so far has been covering various unique festivals worldwide, trying strange foods at tasty restaurants and encountering eccentric landmarks. By far her favorite place to roam is southern Spain and her future dream trip is exploring the Fiji Islands.