First things first… it’s COLD in New York City this weekend! After weeks and weeks of abnormally warm temperatures in the northeast this fall, the weathermen have been warning of the oncoming arctic blast for days. And of course, today was the day I planned all of my outdoor activities. But the cold didn’t prevent me from enjoying the sites.
If you know me at all, it’s safe to say you’re probably wondering what exactly the person who hates cities is doing spending a weekend in the busiest of them all: New York City. Well, let me enlighten you. I’ve officially dubbed this my “Year of Travel”, and intend to go somewhere every month from now until August. But why New York? Growing up in Connecticut, I’ve visited NYC several times on day trips. My stepmother and I used to come here every December for a day of checking out the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree and seeing the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. I’ve seen Central Park and Times Square. But I’ve never actually done the full tourist thing in the Big Apple. I’ve contemplated a day trip the last couple of summers, but for some reason never actually made it happen. So now I’m making it happen.
Can you believe that after almost 20 years of living in the Boston area, today was the first time I visited the Boston Harbor Islands? Sure, I’d heard of them, and I know plenty of people who have visited, but today was the first time I explored them myself.
Having spent a good amount of time in the White Mountains of New Hampshire growing up, I enjoy returning to the area whenever I get a chance. While many people opt for the shopping mecca of North Conway, I prefer to visit the “quiet side” of the mountains in the area around Franconia Notch.
Looking for a great weekend getaway that’s not too far, yet has plenty to offer for all ages? Look no further than Mystic, Connecticut. From the Aquarium to the Seaport, beaches to cafes, Mystic is the perfect place to spend a weekend!
The city of San Diego conjures up visions of palm trees, long sand beaches, and endless sunny days. But San Diego is more than just iconic California sunshine. Filled with history and fortunate to have a year-round temperate climate, the city makes for a great, relaxing vacation destination in any season. With so much to do in San Diego, one could easily spend a couple of weeks and not see everything the area has to offer. San Diego has the unique appeal of having a little something for everyone. From beaches to theme parks to a vibrant downtown, everyone can find something to enjoy in the far southwest corner of the United States….
When a local photo group planned a day trip to New York City, I was all set for a day of fun and photos in one of America’s most iconic cities. I booked a round trip ticket on Amtrak from Boston to New York City, and planned to meet the group in the city. Unfortunately, the group trip was canceled several days prior to the excursion, and I was left with two choices: either cancel my reservation and stay home, or spend a day exploring the Big Apple on my own. I chose the latter, and had a great time finding my way around the city and exploring all that makes New York City such a unique place. So what does one do for a day in New York? Read on, and discover how you can see some of the best of the Big Apple in a short amount of time.
No trip to Oregon would be complete without a visit to the Columbia River Gorge. The gorge is a deep canyon, formed by the Columbia River, which extends over 80 miles from the Cascade Range in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west. Most visitors choose to visit the roughly 60-mile stretch between Portland and Hood River, which also encompasses the Historic Columbia River Highway. One of the main attractions in the gorge is the sheer volume of waterfalls (more than 90 on the Oregon side alone), many of which are easily accessible to visitors. For most visitors, a visit to the Gorge begins and ends in Portland, and the trip is often a day trip which includes a stop at Mt. Hood and a drive through the famous Hood River Fruit Loop. However, to really do justice to the area, at least one full day is recommended in order to have time for a few short hikes and not feel rushed while visiting the Gorge’s many attractions. This suggested route begins in Hood River and ends in Portland, but can easily be adapted to reverse direction or as part of a single-day trip.
While the northern Oregon coast tends to attract day trippers and weekenders from Portland, the central Oregon coast is a bit more removed from the big cities and has a much more laid-back feel. But spend a few days along the central Oregon coast, and you’ll find it has a charm and character all its own. Yachats (pronounced “yah-hawts”) is a perfect base for exploring the central Oregon coast. There are several small inns and hotels along the coast in this area, and while not “built up”, the town is large enough to have several quality restaurants and shops. Best of all, Yachats is just a short drive from Cape Perpetua, a true gem of the Oregon coast.
“…the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed, in front of a boundless ocean…” -William Clark
Where can you find rugged coastlines, secluded beaches, and stunning vistas, all in one area? If your answer involved the Oregon coast, you’re correct! The Oregon coast has long been known as one of America’s most beautiful and scenic coastlines, and it’s easy to see why. Around every bend, there is seemingly one beautiful vista after another. Add to this the fact that the majority of the Oregon coast is comprised of small coastal villages scattered amidst miles of beaches, and you have the perfect recipe for a seaside vacation.
Traveling with Laura 