Port Townsend is Washington’s Victorian Seaport and one of only three in the country and while it may be known for numerous movie locations and the Whidbey Island Ferry, there is so much more than meets the eye in this picturesque seaside village.

When in town you must visit Fort Worden State Park with its many beach walks, bicycle paths and rich history. While there, the port Townsend Marine Science Center is a must stop.

A lovely park is Chetzemoka Park where gorgeous gardens and walking paths beckon to any out door lover and a dog park sits adjacent.

If you like boats, this is the place to be as boat building schools, festivals, museums and boat tours are everywhere. We loved our half day whale watching boat tour with PS Express. The tour was simply fabulous as we watched orcas right off the side of our boat and along the shore in pods. Leaving from Port Townsend in the morning and arriving in time for lunch in Friday Harbor, it gave us a wonderful glimpse into the San Juan Islands and the gentle giants of the sea. The tour was an informative and educational for young and old alike, while relaxing, and a wonderful way to commune with nature in a safe environment. In fact, with nearly three decades of experience leading whale watching tours and access to the best technology available, PS Express offers a whale of a guarantee with a promise to spot the majestic creatures or a refund.

With many quaint hotels and Victorian inns and lodges to choose from we enjoyed our stay at the historic Bishop Victorian Hotel. A comfortable room overlooking the award winning secret Victorian garden was a peaceful respite after a busy seafaring day. We appreciated the complimentary in room breakfast, private sitting room and kitchenette. Kind hospitality and a nice assortment of teas and fresh cookies made us feel welcome and relaxed from the moment we arrived until we departed. It was charming in every regard.

Port Townsend is just the perfect blend of small town atmosphere and something to do for everyone no matter their interest or activity level. The town hosts a 9 hole municipal golf course, artillery museum, brewery, marine touch center, lighthouse, and Washington’s smallest state park in the Rothschild House Museum. These are just a few highlights. You could easily spend a few days and not see everything and I’d recommend at least two days to soak up the natural beauty and history.

With miles of endless hiking trails, boutiques, eateries and water sports, a visitor can stay busy all day or just meander the town and its environs and enjoy the peaceful tranquility and resident deer that parade down the streets as if to greet the visitors.

Why set an alarm clock when you can be awakened by the soft clicking of an Eland, the grunts of a White-Bearded Wildebeest, or the call of Greater Kudu?

No you won’t even need malaria shots or a passport for this African lodging experience but you will need a sense of adventure and passion for the Savanna.

A unique lodging experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is anything but run of the mill. Sure, you might find comfortably appointed rooms, good service and helpful amenities at other properties but you are not likely able to open up your slider door to commune with Ostriches, Impalas, and Giraffes from your balcony at most other hotels.

From the moment you arrive you will be transported to another place, one of exotic animals, culture, music, food and the African Savanna.

The grounds outside are beautifully landscaped with giant boulders, exotic plants, and stunning waterfalls. Inside gorgeous architecture, beautiful wall coverings, African art and artifacts inspire and intrigue.

Couples visiting can enjoy year round activities that educate and entertain in perfect cadence with the theme. African Folktales, Cultural Music, Wine tasting, and Culinary events are just a few choices.

If you are going to plan a stay at Disney World, then why not immerse yourselves in the true African experience. It’s an African style Lodge Resort on a 43 acre wildlife preserve, it’s gorgeous, and it’s just plain wild!

On our last visit to Glacier National Park we spent a couple of leisurely days enjoying The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.

This gorgeous Lodge situated right on beautiful Whitefish Lake offers magnificent views of lake and peaks, and is the epitome of luxury, comfort, class and unpretentious appeal. All the rooms are beautifully decorated with a rustic comfortable yet upscale lodge style with timbers, granite and rock. The grounds are spectacular and include a gorgeous pool and a full service spa.

The views from the pool and spa are astounding. Like much of Montana, the hospitality is impressive and this property’s proximity to Kalispell make it a perfect location to enjoy so much of the visitors’ attractions in the surrounding areas.

The proximity of The Lodge at Whitefish Lake to Glacier National Park makes this the perfect place to lay your head after a spectacular visit to one of the country’s most beautiful National Parks and then indulge in some pampering.

The dock at the Lodge offers boats, rentals and water sports and the views are magnificent. We loved sitting by the fire pits at the edge of the lake and enjoyed the stars and faint, faraway sound of the train on the other side of the lake as it climbed the mountain.

The views from the pool and spa are astounding. Like much of Montana, the hospitality is impressive and this property’s proximity to the to Kalispell and its access to the Flathead Valley, make it a perfect location to enjoy so much of the spectacular natural beauty and splendor of the surrounding areas.

Nine area golf courses, swimming, boating and white water rafting are only a few activity options that guests partake in while savoring the luxury and hospitality of the Lodge.

Many visitors enjoy Glacier National Park which is so vast and so mind-blowing with its wildlife and astounding vistas and panoramas that to adequately convey its beauty in a few words would be impossible. Allow plenty of time for the winding roads and spectacular routes that uncover many of its hidden geologic and wild wonders.

For an aesthetically unparalleled vacation, the Lodge at Whitefish Lake is a favorite for those fortunate enough to call Montana home as well as for those who are lucky enough to visit as often as possible.

Every city has its gems and Orlando is not different. A famous and outstanding eatery is Jack’s Place where locals, stars and every day guests enjoy superb dining and a fun and unique atmosphere.

While the food is exceptional so is the story. Jack Rosen who began sketching famous guests many years ago at the world famous Waldorf Astoria in New York City, is credited with doing more than 100,000 caricatures of famous personalities. His work has won awards including a Medal of Commendation from President Lyndon Johnson.

Jack’s Place is a wonderful presentation of great food, great fun and Jack’s craft and wit for all patrons to enjoy.

A few of the thousands of famous sketches enjoyed by diners are those of: Albert Einstein, Andy Warhol, Babe Ruth, Buzz Aldrin, Charles Lindbergh, Ernest Hemingway, George Burns, John Wayne, Katherine Hepburn, Pablo Picasso, Ronald Reagan, and Winston Churchill.

While enjoying the ambiance and great service at Jack’s those with a discriminating palate can enjoy some of the best steaks and seafood that the Orlando area has to offer.

The Spicy Shrimp and Grits are some of the best you will find anywhere with deliciously balanced flavor, they make a wonderful appetizer. The Pan Seared Crab Cake with Caribbean Mango Salsa is equally as enticing. But save some room because the main courses are outstanding.

Steak and Seafood is Jack’s forte and a signature is the Filet Mignon as is the Grilled Salmon and the Broiled Swordfish Steak. All the entrees are served with fresh vegetables and a choice of potato such as Jack’s Creamy Steakhouse au Gratin Potatoes or Mashed Rustic Potatoes topped with Bleu Cheese. Save room for dessert or at least share one. They are all deliciously presented and appealing.

The service is impeccable and everything about Jack’s deserves a standing ovation. Whether you find yourself in Orlando for business or pleasure, a stop at Jack’s is the only way to discover and experience the truest gem of Orlando.

Jack’s Place is conveniently located in the Rosen Plaza Hotel on International Drive just minutes from most of Orlando’s famous attractions and adjacent to the Orlando Convention Center.

You can ask most anyone who has traveled  to Lake Tahoe about their fondest memories and you will likely hear mention of Camp Richardson.

Camp Richardson, a historic all inclusive resort in Lake Tahoe has been the scene of memories and out door fun and adventure for decades.

Dozens of quaint little 20′s and 30′s era cabins, docks, restaurants and outdoor water fun are just a part of what makes what is known fondly as “Camp Rich” a tradition for folks from all over the world. 

On our recent visit we enjoyed the relaxation of dining on our cabin’s little private deck over looking North America’s largest Alpine Lake. We both enjoyed that we could walk a few feet out under the pines and to the water’s edge to enjoy swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding or just relaxing on the clean sandy beach. For added convenience our cabin had a nicely appointed little kitchen so we could cook up a couple of our own meals and snacks which is always a bonus when traveling. 

When we got hungry, we delighted in the spectacular view of Lake Tahoe from the Beacon Restaurant where we savored great food and excellent service in its famous laid back and relaxed beach party atmosphere. A local’s favorite, The Beacon has great fare to choose from. We agreed that the homemade sourdough bread bowl of savory chowder was delicious and the salads and scallops and melt-in-your-mouth St. Louis cut ribs were equally pleasing. Fortunately the food is almost as perfect as the location and its impeccable view. 

One afternoon we took the Rum Runner day cruise from Camp Richardson. This hour and a half, afternoon yacht excursion took us out to Emerald Bay where we were entertained by wildlife and osprey as we relished in the emerald and cobalt waters and history. We loved the signature Rum Runner cocktail which was refreshing and enjoyable. Made from a famous tasty concoction of tropical fruit juices, nectars and rums, it was memorable. But what doesn’t taste good while relaxing aboard a yacht overlooking the most beautiful lake in the Sierra?

One of the highlights of our visit to Camp Rich was renting a small speedboat so we could water ski and enjoy a picnic out on the crystal blue waters of Tahoe. We water skied and just thoroughly enjoyed exploring coves and beaches from our little vessel on the flat glass lake.

The proximity of Camp Richardson to South Shore Lake Tahoe is an added bonus so we enjoyed going into town to explore, visit the casinos, buffets and tour the hidden gems of Tahoe. And even better, Camp Rich sits right on the bicycle trail for couples to explore the lake. 

While in town, we took time to experience a hike in Van Sickle Bi-State Park. One morning we even indulged in a long time locals’ favorite by dining at the Red Hut Cafe where huge filling omelets, muffins, waffles and home made stick-to-our-ribs breakfasts filled us up and readied us for our wonderful day in the great outdoors. With its old fashioned soda fountain and home made goodness that has been pleasing locals and visitors since the 1950′s, we knew we would not go wrong. We will be back and with several area locations it makes it even easier to return. 

One morning was a highlight because we left Camp Richardson early to Paddle Board on Lake Tahoe while the morning water was flat glass. Our guides from South Tahoe Stand Up Paddle made us feel comfortable and created the right first experience for us to enjoy and not feel intimidated. Owned by the local Brackett family for two years, this organization is the way to go for beginners. They know how to show anyone who wants to try the fastest growing water sport in the world, how to take to the water effortlessly to enjoy the best views of Tahoe from standing right above the surface. Similar to surfing and easier like kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding is serene yet an awesome core work out as well.

They helped us to do it successfully on the very first try. South Tahoe Stand Up Paddle offers tours and instruction for all ages and levels of expertise. Since they are located just a few minutes from Camp Rich it was a win win and easy to meet them in the early morning conveniently for our wonderful Paddle Board experience.

Perhaps the best part of our Camp Richardson stay was enjoying a relaxing  and romantic evening each night, unwinding from the day’s adventures. Whether we had chosen an afternoon at Baldwin Beach or a day’s bicycle jaunt around the lake for a picnic and exploring, Camp Richardson provided us our own little refuge in the evening to sit on our deck or on the dock and gaze at glorious sunsets and enjoy the majesty and serenity of the most magical lake in the world.

Sometimes we sipped some wine and explored with binoculars and one night we  just played a board game together on the water’s edge with a cocktail. But no matter what we chose in the evening we had our fun and our time to recharge.

On our most recent visit to the Kitsap Peninsula of  Washington we had the privilege of taking a tour of Olympic National Park with Evergreen Escapes. Beginning with a Mercedez van pickup at Agate Pass Park we were in for an adventure of spectacular proportions and breath taking scenery at every turn.

Our group of about 10 was led by two naturalist guides who made sure we enjoyed a diverse array of scenery from the very beginning of our expedition.

After a brief visit to a Native American Reservation and a break for lovely scones and tea we were off to the heart of our adventurous escape to enjoy the area’s points of interest.

We visited Dungeness  National Wildlife Refuge where our guide led us on a moderate hike out to the sandy spit where a lone lighthouse has lit the way for ages. There we enjoyed a half an hour of beach combing and exploration where we saw giant kelp varieties and even an octopus on the beach.

Beautiful trees, berries, flowers, and wildlife were enjoyed both to and from the spit along with waterfowl and shorebirds we spotted frequently along the way in both directions.

Shortly after our visit to the beach we drove out to Olympic National Park where a delicious gourmet picnic was served for all to enjoy. This was no ordinary picnic but rather artfully presented barbecued chicken, gourmet salads, roasted vegetables, numerous home baked desserts to choose from and even wines to accompany the meal. The food far exceeded our expectations and keeping with Evergreen Escapes Eco-Tourism model, the cuisine incorporated local and organic ingredients.

After being satiated we took a delightful hike along world reknown Hurricane Ridge which provided majestic vistas and jagged pinnacles to observe. Wildflowers and wild life were everywhere including numerous black tailed deer and one black bear we spied from a distance. We enjoyed the views of the summit and strait along with the San Juan Islands.

All in all, our tour provided a tiny glimpse into the majestic grandeur of Olympic National Park and the surrounding areas but it also proved a perfect tour for anyone without a whole lot of time. We know now some of the highlights of that part of the state and will return for a more comprehensive visit next time. But for now we have lasting memories of our Evergreen Escape.

photos courtesy of Rankin Motel

The next time you visit Yellowstone National Park, make a plan to stay at the charming little Historic Rankin Motel located in Ashton, Idaho.

This little gem is a generations-old, adorable little motel is conveniently located just 55 miles from Yellowstone National Park and central to some of the nation’s very best fly fishing that attracts outdoors people from around the world.

Teton National Park and Jackson Hole are also nearby as are The Henry’s Fork of the Snake River, Harriman State Park, Island Park, Mesa Falls, and world famous outdoor adventure are all within 30 minutes of the Rankin Motel.

What we loved best about this little gem was the quaint décor, comfy surroundings and homey feeling. Everything right down to our cabin’s curtains and furniture were an adorable delight. Our cabin had two bedrooms which provided space and privacy.

The owners were very helpful in suggesting nearby excursions, waterfalls and points of interest.

We also appreciated the little extras like cable TV, fridge, microwave and nice coffees and teas. But truly we just felt like we were in a little home away from home.

It is no wonder that the Savor Seattle Food Tours have won numerous prestigious awards and are now rated as the number one attraction in Seattle. There is simply no better way to get a sampling of the vast array of culinary delights the diverse city has to offer.

We enjoyed our recent Pike Place Market Food and Cultural Tour immensely and it gave us an appetizer of numerous culinary icons so that we could better plan the rest of our trip as well as feel that we got the true flavor of the city, its history, and a who’s who insight into Seattle’s food greats.

Our two hour walking tour of Pike Place began a few blocks from the heart of the offerings. Armed with our own perfectly-working personal audio devices and an exuberant and knowledgeable guide we began a deliciously fun and informative tour of downtown eateries and culinary staples.

A few of our favorites were Pike Place Chowder where we sampled award winning chowders and seafood bisque, Daily Dozen Doughnuts where sweet, homemade delicasies melted in our mouths, and Pike Place Fish where we got to see the famous fish fly and we mean big 20 pound fish flying from burly fish monger to fish monger as jubilant cheers rang out from the crowds and the fishermen.

We sampled teas, local produce, artisan cheeses and more. It was lovely, delectable, and fun.

To most visitors and locals alike, Seattle is defined by its culinary comforts and culture. Its nearby farmlands produce boundless varieties of organic produce and its 100 mile estuary welcomes some of the nation’s best fresh seafood.

After sampling the best of the best in Seattle’s downtown, we felt like we had had a vacation within a vacation.

Whether you have been to Seattle many times, or are planning a first visit, this is the tour to take to truly feel you have experienced the flavor of Seattle and its rich culture.

Growing up on the west coast, we know Disneyland like the back of our hands. And although we’ve been to Florida many times, we’ve never been to Disney World.

We’d heard the stories that Disney World requires a week to enjoy it all with the various parks and have fully embraced that opinion. Disneyland takes a couple of days so we have always imagined that was a fair and accurate estimation. That’s probably why we’ve never gone. It seems most of our Florida trips have been a few days in the Keys or on our way to or from somewhere for a short jaunt.

However a recent trip to Orlando afforded us only one free day to get a taste of Disney World before embarking on a Disney Cruise on the new Disney Fantasy so we decided to challenge ourselves to the ultimate theme park challenge. We wondered if we could pull it off and if it was even worth a shot to try. But we did it. We experienced Disney World in 7 hours.

Can it be done? Yes, sort of. Would we do it again? Yes, but not that way. Do we have regrets? No, because we got a taste of several parks and now know what we’d like to do differently next time. Would we recommend this? Absolutely not, but sometimes in life you have to seize the opportunity no matter how small and make the best of what you have. And even though getting soaked in the rain and walking about 10 miles in one day is not our idea of the perfect vacation, we are so glad we toughed it out and tried.

Our impressions of the parks are just overviews, because obviously we didn’t have much opportunity to do even a fraction of what we would do next time. We only rode one attraction and didn’t get to see a single show. But a taste of filet mignon is better than none, right?

We were struck by the grandeur of Epcot, The enormous and beautiful gardens and flower displays were awe-inspiring. The architecture of the various parts of the world depicted throughout the park was astounding. We were thoroughly impressed with the overall organization compared to Disneyland. Digital signs allowed guests to plan their time efficiently with read-outs of attractions and wait times. Since we did not have time to go indoors to take in any shows we were thrilled to see marching bands and dramatic musical performances throughout the park as we were outdoors on foot exploring.

We were amazed by the various transportation between parks and were excited to take a ferry across the water from one world to another. Monorails are the only option at Disneyland so the choice of boats and ferries and shuttles was exciting and much more romantic.

At the Magical Kingdom it  felt like Disneyland on steroids. The train, the castle, the rides, the shops, the landscaping, everything was bigger and better and more showy but all was familiar to us as was the lay out. Previous dozens of trips to Disneyland proved helpful as we knew the basic route and lay out which enabled us to maximize our few hours.

And at the Animal Kingdom, we were enthralled by the gorgeous art and animals and the accuracy of the various continents’ diverse food, architecture, and culture as it was displayed.

We may not have seen a fraction of the true experience of Disney World but we can say we have been, and if we are am honest we will always have to divulge that we were only able to spend a total of seven hours in three parks but at least we got a taste of the magic. Like anything magnificent that you sample, you know you want more. An appetizer, is just that, an appetizer.

Next time, two weeks if possible and nothing less than a week. But we have scouted out the possibilities and are ready for the full Disney experience. We are glad we got our feet wet literally and figuratively at Disney World and know for certain we will be back.

Our guest post and monthly column comes from Howard Hian who was recently awarded a Gold Medal/First Place Award from the North American Travel Journalists Association’s annual international writing contest.  His prize winning story, Houseboating with My Pirate Pals, was in the Intergenerational Travel category.  In 2010 he also received a second place award in the Cancun International writers competition for his feature, Quintessential Quintana Roo. Hian was recently named as the San Diego Hotel Motel Association’s “Allied Member of the Year” for 2011 for his ongoing contributions to the city’s tourism industry through his travel writing.

photos courtesy of Howard Hian

If you are planning to travel this month, here are some Roadtrips for Couples ideas for exploring the Golden State.

San Diego – Two Cinco de Mayo Celebrations

The 29th Annual Fiesta Cinco de Mayo will be held in Old Town State Historic Park May 5 & 6. The free festival features Mexican dancers, musicians, food and historical reenactments. Additionally, the Bazaar Del Mundo Shops and Casa Guadalajara Mexican restaurant will showcase authentic Mexican food and folklore. Other festivities include mariachi and folkloric dance performances, craft displays and demonstrations, a margarita garden and carne asada BBQ (www.bazaardelmundo.com). On May 6, the Third Avenue Village’s Cinco de Mayo commemoration in downtown Chula Vista features over 200 vendors, live entertainment, authentic Mexican food and beverages, arts and crafts, a kid’s zone, rides, fashion shows and salsa dancing contests.

Balboa Park – There’s a lot going on at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. IMAX’ G-rated documentary, To the Arctic, narrated by Meryl Streep, features a polar bear and her cubs’ tale of survival in the wilderness. “Rock the Dome” also joins the regular roster of IMAX® films. It is an interactive digital concert featuring some of the greatest bands from the late 60’s through the early 90’s. Kids will love Secret of the Cardboard Rocket. Two young adventurers turn an old cardboard box into a rocket and with the help of a magical Astronomy Book and their vivid imaginations, blast off on a journey through the Solar System. Returning May 26, “Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body,” uses sophisticated animatronics and imaginative exhibits to tell you the good, the bad and the downright ugly about runny noses, body odor and much more. For tickets, show times, etc., call 1-619 238-1233 or visit www.rhfleet.org.

Ventura - An outstanding music festival takes place May 3 – May 12 in venues throughout the city. The line-up includes vocalists, string quartets, a “rising stars” competition, local artists and much more. An outdoor Cuban jazz concert kicks off the first weekend of the festival.

North Lake Tahoe – How about a free phone app for activities and events in and around the area? It’s easy to use and features nightlife, restaurants, happy hours, news, weather and more. The “What’s going on?” question now is easy to answer.

Oakland – Consider this: the New York Times listed Oakland as its #5 destination to visit in 2012. Reasons include the restaurant scene, a thriving arts community and exciting nightlife.

Safe travels and enjoy the journey…

Howard Hian
www.Travels-with-Hian.com