Historic Loreto remains a quiet, undiscovered gem in 'old' Mexico

Efforts to turn the seaside village of Loreto into a major destination have been going on for years. So far, though, the results have been limited, and that in itself makes it worth visiting. Loreto is already a gem - a historic town nestled between gold-hued mountains and the blue Sea of Cortez. It's known mainly to whale watchers (late winter), fishermen (year-round) and snowbirds who drive down from British Columbia.



from Vancouver Sun - Travel http://ift.tt/1w9hdJx

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Untouched B.C. terrain offers epic skiing

Single file, we carefully tread along the metre-wide outcropping that is Ripper Ridge. On one side, a sheer cliff dropping a kilometre into the fog. On the other, a wide, natural halfpipe of unmarred, powder snow two kilometres long in the brilliant sunshine.



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Sensational South Africa

Africa has been a bucket-list travel destination for generations - and its appeal comes naturally. The continent's Big Five species - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino - first earned their fame in the sights of hunters' rifles, then became photo targets for hordes of Land Rover-riders from around the world.



from Vancouver Sun - Travel http://ift.tt/1w9heNu

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'Emotional support' pig kicked off U.S. flight

Passengers say a pig ran up and down the aisle and left a foul mess

from CNN Travel http://ift.tt/1y0M9Y6

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Midway Airport Security Line Reportedly Over 1 Mile Long

Holiday travelers faced a literal nightmare on Sunday morning when the line for security checks at Midway Airport in Chicago was reportedly over a mile long.



KOMO reporter Denise Whitaker said that the line was 1.2 miles long. An airport spokespersonsaid that she wasn't surprised by the crowds.



“This happens sometimes,” Chicago Aviation Department rep. Karen Pride told the Chicago Sun-Times. “There was a period of time earlier this morning, between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m., that lines were long because that is when most people are traveling for the holiday period.”



Twitter users posted pictures of the hellish scene. The end of the line was literally outside of the airport.

The line for TSA at Midway airport leaves the terminal, goes to city train stop, turns around and goes back in. http://pic.twitter.com/E56vLi7guL

— TumbleDry (@TumbleDry) November 30, 2014

Back of the line? I don't think I'm at the airport anymore http://pic.twitter.com/doiCcSqvnB

— Brian B (@bblach99) November 30, 2014

#overheard in @TSA line @MDW #Chicago #midway "where's the line?" I just mapped it -1.2 miles long! #seriously http://pic.twitter.com/TEWeQ2xsfH

— Denise Whitaker (@deniseonKOMO) November 30, 2014

Ever seen this part of chicago midway airport? Me neither. I love security http://pic.twitter.com/3oyLLr8dm3

— ★★★★ (@m__r_s) November 30, 2014

Twitter user TumbleDry said that it took 75 minutes to get through the line. According to ABC7 Chicago, the airport cleared up by 9 A.M.



from Travel - The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/30/midway-airport-line-security-1-mile_n_6244282.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel

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Wrap Up the Hyundai Sonata for a Holiday in New Orleans

Photos by Guillaume de Vaudrey



Christmas New Orleans style is all about the food, the people and the atmosphere so why not take a break this holiday season in the Big Easy where there is something going on continuously during the month of December.

Only about an eight hour drive from Dallas, begin the trip in a 2015 Hyundai Sonata starting at $21,150 with an average of 25 miles per gallon in the city and 37 miles per gallon on the highway.

A midsize sedan, nothing fits the bill better than the 2015 Hyundai Sonata offering a new look and a complete redesign, expect a sexier appearance and a roomier cabin size all around.

She's grown up now, and the Hyundai Sonata is not afraid to show it with a new powertrain and lots of additions to the standard features from technology goodies to elements that are all about ease - there is even a more earth friendly trim too.

There are a number of choices in the midsize sedan market, so the Sonata has to be a looker or else get lost in the crowd. Indeed, the fresh-faced new 2015 Hyundai Sonata can certainly go head-to-head with the likes of the competition like the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and the Mazda 6.

There are five trim levels to choose from including the SE, Sport, Eco, Limited and Sport 2.0T trims and there is also a Hybrid option in 2015 as well.

Under the hood it's a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine cranking out 185 horsepower with 178 pound-feet of torque on the SE, Sport and Limited trims. It's front-wheel drive and a six-speed transmission except on the Eco trim with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 177 horsepower and 195 pound feet of torque with a seven-speed automatic transmission.

The top-of-the-line performance vehicle, the Sport 2.0T, offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 245 horsepower with 260 pound feet of torque.

Loving the design, the 2015 Sonata is crafted simple for a down-to-earth feel, but the quality of the material inside is impressive with nice cabin accents on all the trims, but more than exceptional in the Limited with two-tone color schemes and high-end wood grain.

There is plenty of room for four adults and the two in the backseat won't be cramped with plenty of head and legroom and there is a 16.3 cubic feet trunk. Easy to drive, quiet, comfortable and an excellent road trip car you don't just feel the road, you own it so instead of the road taking you for a ride, you take it for one instead.

Heading into New Orleans consider a stay at the Dauphine Orleans in the heart of the French Quarter. It's a unique boutique hotel featuring buildings that date back to the early nineteenth century such as the Audubon breakfast room where John James Audubon painted his Birds of America series from 1821-22 while residing at the Audubon Cottages.



Aboard the Natchez

One all around New Orleans tradition you don't want to miss now or any time of year is a ride on the Natchez steamboat. Cruises are daily and there is live jazz. I did the Sunday brunch cruise and the jazz was playing before and after the meal making the time onboard just right. You can also take the time to visit the steam engine room and remember, this is the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River so you don't want to miss it on your New Orleans trip.



Where to Eat



In the Garden District

It is New Orleans' second most popular neighborhood so is stands to reason there would be a few restaurants you have to try there too.

Commander's Palace

The Commander Palace chef was named number 16 in the America with a James Beard Award and of course we had heard the name of this place many times. However finally trying the Turtle Soup made it worth the trip. I tried the soup at a variety of places, but Commander's Palace soup still wins my award for excellence. Takings the St. Charles Street Car from Canal Street was the beginning of our journey to the Garden District as we walked the four blocks from the street car line getting off at Washington Street to the final destination of Old New Orleans charm. Inside the Victorian architecture is the truly inventive and modern New Orleans cooking alongside the much loved Haute Creole. Testing the likes of Gumbo soup, Shrimp and Tasso Henican (my favorite with pepper jelly and picked okra), the classic Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish and the white truffle, autumn mushroom and Permesan risotto with chanterelle, shiitake and oyster mushrooms, our surprise was doubled when the wait staff came out with the Creole Bread Pudding Souffle, Ponchatoula Strawberry Shortcake and Lally's Praline Parfait. The latter was the best desert I have put in my mouth in some time, I just kept wanting one more bite, no one can finish the parfait, but I tried.



In the French Quarter

When you think of New Orleans you usually think of the French Quarter. It is less than a mile long and half a mile across, but the Vieux Carre is what we love about New Orleans and was originally laid out in 1721. The district is also on the National Register of Historic Places and its trademark ironwork, Creole homes and shutters on the windows are second only to the food that can be found here.

SeBou

This restaurant located at the W Hotel French Quarter is part of the Commander's Palace family, but the menu and the food could not be more different. Open with the Yellowfin Tuna Cones literally served in avocado ice cream, shrimp and tasso pinchos with ghost pepper jelly, sweet potato beignets and a nice twist; the Foie Gras Burger of which every morsel was eaten. Even more surprising was the accompanying foie gras ice cream float that I was turning my nose up at until I tried.



What Else to Do

There is so much to do in New Orleans you won't know where to begin, easiest thing to do is think the holidays and spend some time enjoying the St. Louis Cathedral Concerts, cooking demos at a variety of locations and one unusual find that beckoned me on this trip was my discovery of the Edgar Degas house. I had no idea Degas had lived in New Orleans, even if it was just for five months. You can visit the historic home, studio and courtyard and the owners have also made it into a fine bed and breakfast. Degas lived in New Orleans for five months in the early 1870s and it was here he was inspired for his painting "The Cotton Office" in 1873. Quite unusual to find this Parisian artist with his inspiration taken from his months in New Orleans, when you visit you will also get the chance to listen to the history of his brothers and his one brother's divorce that caused the Degas rift with the local Musson famly and how the house was even split apart as well.



NOTE: This author does not and will never take any money from any automotive brand or destination/restaurant/activity, etc. in exchange for coverage, the views are strictly the author's opinion.



from Travel - The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rita-cook/wrap-up-the-hyundai-sonat_b_6244118.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel

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10 Best Kept Secrets of Grand Cayman

Wherever you go on vacation or travel, popular sites and locations are popular for a reason. Whatever their attraction, whether it be a beautiful view or a tasty meal or an unusual land formation, activity or attraction, they have been tried and tested and been proven to be worth your time and effort to get there. However, there's always another angle to visiting new places, and that's the local's angle. So, here are 10 things that the guidebooks won't tell you about Grand Cayman Island that you might be sorry if you missed!



10. Mastic Trail



Grand Cayman is 79 feet above sea level at its highest elevation. People do not flock to this Caribbean paradise to hike and go mountain climbing. However, if you are in the mood for a nice mellow four-mile round trip hike -- this is where you want to go. Located on the North side of the island this slow incline trail is full of birds, Cayman rabbits and other wildlife. If you park on the main road and walk into the trail, you can add another two miles to your hike.








9. The Shoe Tree



Ever since Hurricane Ivan, people have been writing their names and dates on shoes, flip flops, swim fins and sandals and tacking them to this tree on the East side of the island. It's easy to find right on the main road West of Bodden Town.








8. Anchors



Tucked in at the Cayman Islands Yacht Club is a little convenience store called ANCHORS. This is the only package store that sells carry out alcohol on Sundays. So, if you find yourself high and dry on a Sunday during your stay -- head to Anchrs for a six-pack of local beer or bottle of wine.








7. Cemetery Beach



This is a nice beach, and fairly well known. However, what most folks don't know about is the awesome snorkeling reef that is a short swim out. There are schools of Tangs, eels, Parrot Fish, sea turtles, rays and the occasional Nurse Shark that will swim by. It's an interesting walk in from the road to past one of the many historical cemeteries on the island.








6. The Pirate's Den



PD's to the locals - this sports bar has some of the best sandwiches and wings on the island. It's in a little strip mall across from Seven Mile Beach, and you'll miss it if you blink driving by. Enjoy flat screen TV's a full bar and pool tables. Buffalo Shrimp are one menu item that should NOT be overlooked.








5. The Farmers and Artisans Market at Camana Bay



Every Wednesday from 12 noon to 7pm at Camana Bay local farmers and artists set up booths in a beautiful open air courtyard environment to show and sell their wares. Everything from fresh produce, to local arts and crafts is easily accessible and sold by the hands that grew and crafted the items. There is even an "open canvas" art exhibition that invites any one to sit and paint with beautiful view of the Camana Bay beach and harbor. While relatively new and mostly attended by locals, this event is open to tourists as well and is a perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs like Camanite jewelry and sculptures. I should also add that secret #2 can be purchased here.








4. Shopping Cart Pick-Up



This may seem strange, but will prove extremely helpful if you are staying in a house, condo or anywhere with a kitchen and plan on doing you own grocery shopping while staying on Grand Cayman. The two major grocery stores -- Foster's Food and Fain & Kirk -- offer a cart pick up service all over the island. So, you load up your groceries and truck them off to wherever you're staying and leave the cart out at the curb. The best part of this convenience is walking around at night before the pick up and seeing shopping carts all over the place.








3. Black Pearl State Park



That's right, Grand Cayman has a skate park! It was opened and christened by the one and only Tony Hawk back in 2007. So, tell your kids to pack their boards because this park is huge and will keep them shredding all day long.








2. Cayman Pepper Patch



This local artisan pepper jelly is prepared in small batches and can only be purchased on Grand Cayman Island. It is 100% Cayman made, they do not ship or export this stuff - so stock up while you're there. I cleared out a whole jar with goat cheese on cracked pepper water crackers. The brochure comes with many suggestions and recipes, but I can't imagine anything that this stuff won't make taste better.








1. Diving With Silversides



Every year the Dwarf Herrings come to the Cayman Islands around early summer and stay through the beginning of fall. The only way I can describe it is like being underwater in a swarm of a million bees that aren't going to sting you... AND IT'S COOL! If you've seen the footage on National Geographic films or BBC World documentaries where giant masses of fish that all move in the same direction in unison -- almost like a dance -- and part when a seal swims though them... YOU'RE THE SEAL! This is seriously one of the coolest things I've ever done, and the dive shop to take you is Ambassador Divers. They know the waters, the reefs and the fish better than anyone on the island, and will make sure you get the full silverside experience.








So, if unique experiences with a local flair are what it takes to make your vacation a memorable experience -- any one of these best-kept secrets of Grand Cayman Island should fit the bill to a fun and successful adventure. Check them all off your list or maybe these will lead to other adventures not mentioned here. Whatever the case have a blast and safe travels always!



from Travel - The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/p-andrew-och/10-best-kept-secrets-of-g_b_6216024.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel

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The regal grandeur of Leeds- checking into the stylish Queens Hotel

WITH ITS stylish shopping district, vibrant arts scene, fine restaurants and buzzing nightlife, Britain's third biggest city has plenty going for it.



from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://www.express.co.uk/travel/activity/542007/Review-Christmas-shopping-Leeds-The-Queens-Hotel

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Make merry at Christmas markets: Guide to Europe's winter wonderlands

Visiting an atmospheric winter wonderland is a highlight of the seasonal calendar, says LIZ BIRD.



from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://www.express.co.uk/travel/shortbreaks/542004/Guide-visiting-Europe-s-winter-wonderlands-Christmas

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Make merry at Christmas markets: Guide to Europe's winter wonderlands

Visiting an atmospheric winter wonderland is a highlight of the seasonal calendar, says LIZ BIRD.



from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://www.express.co.uk/travel/shortbreaks/542004/Guide-tvisiting-Europe-s-winter-wonderlands-Christmas

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Civita Di Bagnoregio, The Magical Little Italian Town That's Slowly Eroding Away

Almost two hours from Rome, Civita di Bagnoregio -- Italy's "Jewel on the Hill" -- rises up from the surrounding hills, a majestic sight on the skyline.



Though the view is sublime, there's one problem rocking this isolated, ancient town to its core -- bits of Civita are slowly eroding away, and have been for years.







The main culprits of the erosion are continuous rains and the streams that line both sides of the approximately 2,500-year-old town.



Civita was built by the Etruscans, and their architecture is still prominent throughout the city, as evidenced by a massive stone arch that welcomes locals and visitors alike.











The arch comes after the often foggy, quarter-mile-long footbridge you must walk up to reach the town, as there are no cars allowed here.







Even though it's quite the hike to get to Civita, tourists love the town's enchanting ancient history, narrow roads and medieval ruins that litter the little hilltop town.



Tourists make up most of the people in the town during the day, as there is only a small population of full-time residents in town.



Those who have visited said that "pictures can't describe this beautiful place" and that the overall experience is "surreal, magical and beautiful."















So on your next Italian escape, make sure to say ciao to Civita di Bagnoregio!



from Travel - The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/11/19/civita-di-dagnoregio_n_6186802.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel

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Things to Do for Christmas with Kids at Disney World

Christmas with Kids at Disney (Photo Credit: Disney)



Believe it or not, the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida becomes even more magical during the holiday season. You can feel the magic in the air more than ever during this time of year. From the beautiful decorations to the special events, the holidays are a great time for a Disney World vacation.



Disney starts the holiday season a little earlier than most places, by the first week of November. The holiday festivities last approximately two months, through the first week of January. There are festive decorations throughout the parks and resorts as well as special events and activities to help you celebrate the season.







Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party





Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom (Photo Credit: Disney)



Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is held at Magic Kingdom on select nights from early November through the week of Christmas. This is the only opportunity to see snow falling on Main Street, U.S.A. The party offers a variety of exciting holiday festivities. Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade marches down Main Street with toy soldiers, gingerbread men, elves, and many of our favorite Disney characters. This year's parade will even include Frozen characters Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff. The party also includes character dance parties, free hot cocoa and cookies, and a special holiday Wishes fireworks spectacular.





Festival of the Seasons

Festival of the Seasons is the holiday celebration held at Downtown Disney. You can meet Santa Claus, pick up some Christmas ornaments, or enjoy live entertainment. There are holiday carolers, stilt walkers, street performers, and a holiday dance party. The area is also full of beautiful holiday decorations.





Candlelight Processional





Candlelight Processional at Epcot (Photo Credit: Disney)



Candlelight Processional is held every night from Thanksgiving to Christmas inside Epcot. Each night, Disney brings in a celebrity narrator to read the Christmas story. The celebrity narrator is accompanied by a 50-piece live orchestra and mass choir. The 2014 Candlelight Processional at Epcot will feature the following celebrity narrators:

• Jonathan Groff - December 3 and 4, 2014

• Whoopi Goldberg - December 5 and 6, 2014

• LeVar Burton - December 7 to December 9, 2014

• Edward James Olmos - December 10 to December 11, 2014

• Joe Morton - December 12 to December 14, 2014

• Chita Rivera - December 15 to December 17, 2014

• Ana Gasteyer - December 18 to December 20, 2014

• Marlee Matlin - December 21 to December 23, 2014

• Isabella Rossellini - December 24 and 25, 2014

• Blair Underwood - December 26 and 27, 2014

• Steven Curtis Chapman - December 28 to December 30, 2014





Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights





Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios (Photo Credit: Disney)



The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights covers the Streets of America in Disney's Hollywood Studios with millions of dancing lights. Every 20 or so minutes, the lights "dance" to music and there will be a snowfall on the Streets of America. You will find a Christmas tree, angels, Santa Claus, and even a spinning Earth made of lights. Plus, you just might be lucky enough to spot a Hidden Mickey or two in the lights.





(MORE: Find wonderful hotels to stay in near or at the Walt Disney World Resort.)





Resort Decorations





Decorations at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (Photo Credit: Disney)



All of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels show their holiday spirit with incredible decorations ranging from floor to ceiling Christmas trees to larger than life gingerbread creations. All of the hotels have trees, wreaths, and other decorations, but the deluxe resorts truly go all out for the holidays. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa features a life size gingerbread house in their lobby along with freshly baked gingerbread treats available for purchase for a snack or to send to your friends and family back home. Disney's Beach Club Resort creates a life sized gingerbread carousel in their lobby. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Disney's Wilderness Lodge have spectacular Christmas trees that are a few stories high sitting in their lobbies. Plus, Disney's Contemporary Resort will feature a new Frozen-inspired creation in their lobby this year. As a reminder, anyone can visit the Walt Disney World Resort hotels to enjoy their decor.







Siera Duiser of Destinations in Florida contributed this to MiniTime.





More from MiniTime

Things to do for Christmas with Kids in Orlando

Holiday Family Fun at Southern California's Theme Parks

Things to do for Christmas with Kids in New York City

6 Dreamy Christmas Getaways with Kids

Things to do for Christmas with Kids in London



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Passengers allowed back into Edinburgh airport following evacuation over 'suspicious object'

A major evacuation at Edinburgh airport has ended and passengers are being allowed back onto the premises following security investigations into a “suspicious object”.

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10 Best Year-Round Amusement Parks in the U.S.

Escape the dreary cold this winter and seek the thrills of one of summer’s greatest highlights: amusement parks. These fantastic parks offer the best fun in the sun year-round. Indoor parks, mega resort complexes, and smaller boutique amusement parks all bring a new flair for the 2014-15 season. Pack your sunscreen and get your shorts out of storage as you prepare to go to new heights this winter.

By Zachary Laks

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://www.fodors.com/news/photos/10-best-year-round-amusement-parks-in-the-us

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10 Best Year-Round Amusement Parks in the U.S.

Escape the dreary cold this winter and seek the thrills of one of summer’s greatest highlights: amusement parks. These fantastic parks offer the best fun in the sun year-round. Indoor parks, mega resort complexes, and smaller boutique amusement parks all bring a new flair for the 2014-15 season. Pack your sunscreen and get your shorts out of storage as you prepare to go to new heights this winter.

By Zachary Laks

from Fodor's Travel Wire http://www.fodors.com/news/photos/10-best-year-round-amusement-parks-in-the-us

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From winter wonderlands to London luxury: The best things to do this week

FROM winter wonderlands to London luxury, we’ve got this week covered



from Daily Express :: Travel Feed http://www.express.co.uk/travel/activity/541151/Best-Christmas-activities-2014

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A Reason for Every Traveler to Be Thankful

Photo Credit: Flickr: Moyan Brenn



Travelers aren't always able to spend time with family around the holidays.



I am over 2,000 miles away from my immediate family on Thanksgiving. Later this holiday season, I'll be serving people their Christmas and New Year's dinners in the restaurant where I wait tables. When other families gather close to carve the turkey, I'll be the attentive server cleaning up after my guests' picture-perfect Hallmark moments. I don't feel resentment, though; rather, I'm thankful to be earning money to afford me the opportunities to travel far and wide.



Around the holidays, people become soft and pensive about what they are thankful for. When family and loved ones are near, it's hard not to feel warm and fuzzy inside. We reflect upon the fortunes that have blessed us. We are grateful for good food and better company.



For those travelers feeling the pangs of loneliness during a holiday away from family - whether you're across the state or across the world -- remember something to truly be thankful for: How lucky you are to travel.



Travelers are fortunate. They are able to experience different cultures, near and far. Travelers are also lucky in that they are resourceful. Unless a trust fund recipient or a lucky lottery winner, travelers often have to use their own ingenuity to carve out a living on the road. That means honing a skill or being willing to learn a new one.



With ingenuity comes sacrifice. Most people gravitate toward friends and family during the holidays, but travelers are slaves to their curiosity about the world. Spending the holidays away from home and donating time and energy to a new people or culture becomes the new norm.



It's a hard pill to swallow, logging onto Facebook and seeing your family celebrating togetherness while you are off on your adventure. Remember, travelers, that you are living your passion. Most people dream of the day they might be able to live a life of passionate pursuit. Travelers do it day in and day out, whether or not it's a holiday.



Often, many people don't possess the gusto to listen to their heart's desire for adventure. Perhaps non-travelers are a victim of circumstance: a static job, familial obligation, or an illness. We might not be able to understand the reasons why people don't travel. But we know why we do.



By being granted the opportunity to reinvent ourselves and re-examine our values in every new place we visit, we discover our purpose in life through travel. Often, though, the evolution of self requires sacrifice.



We may struggle to be alone and far away during the holidays, but remembering the big picture helps: We are lucky enough to constantly explore new places with a burning curiosity and a fire in our hearts.



The truly fortunate return home after time away to a caring family. By bringing home stories about the road, travelers are able to give the precious gift of travel to those they love the most.



from Travel - The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jill-kozak/a-reason-for-every-traveler-to-be-thankful_b_6234308.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel

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7 Life-Changing Lessons I've Learned Living on a Caribbean Island

Lessons are learned every day -- or at least they should be. Whether positive or negative, life is full of daily experiences that change us and affect us. Living on an island in the Caribbean for two years has taught me many valuable lessons I may not have learned living Stateside. In case you aren't currently basking in tropical sunshine like me, allow me to impart some of my newfound wisdom.





Beach View in Roatan, Honduras. Photo by Amanda Walkins




Lesson #1

Electricity is overrated. The thought of being without power for hours or days at a time probably would have shocked me before I lived here. Now that I've been through a few rainy seasons when power outages are fairly common, I can say from experience that living without power for extended periods of time is not going to kill you. Yes, I have all my electronics here: laptop, iPhone, Kindle, you name it. I'm not living off the grid. So when the power goes out and I have no internet and no means of "entertainment," I suddenly remember what it is to just breathe. And relax. And hear nothing but the waves and the wind. And I remember that the world keeps spinning regardless of how much or little I do every hour. Power outages are excellent opportunities to disconnect and reflect. And you know what else happens when the power is off? You talk. You actually put the phone away and you talk to the person next to you. Without distractions. When is the last time you did that with any regularity? It's a reality check.



Lesson #2

The Rolling Stones were right. "You can't always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find you get what you need." Sometimes you go to the supermarket and there is no chicken, or bread, or milk, or tomatoes...or whatever it is that you wanted and intended to get. Sometimes you just can't find that part to fix your kitchen appliance. Or that specific light bulb to fit into your favorite lamp. You can't always find what you want on an island, but you can find the things you need. And you can get really creative in the process! New culinary concoctions are a favorite pastime here, or "kitchen-sink" meals. Buen provecho!



Lesson #3

You don't need it. While I just told you about getting what you need, the definition of need has changed for many people. We often say that we need things, when in reality they are superfluous. "Needs" and "Wants" are entirely different, but they're often intermixed and confused. You don't need new clothes. You might want some, but unless your current clothes are literally falling apart at the seams, you are not in need. Stains happen, holes happen, and wearing the same thing several times a week is not a sign of impending doom. When you're not inundated with commercials telling you what you're lacking, you tend not to notice what you or anybody is else wearing. You also don't notice what type of phone they have. Or whether or not they own a vehicle. While I can only speak for the expat community in my adopted island, we just don't give a damn. We've adjusted to know that we might not find what we want, but we don't need it anyway. That knowledge is incredibly liberating.



Lesson #4

Seasonal eating is always best. I used to live in Washington, DC where farmers' markets were the norm, but I still had every type of food at my fingertips. On an island where shipments don't always arrive, it's best to rely on what's locally available as much as possible. Eating seasonally is healthier, it's cheaper, and it's so much more exciting. Flavors are more vibrant and fruits are juicier. Nothing beats picking fresh cashew fruits off a tree to suck on their sweet nectar. Nothing beats eating fresh lobster tails just caught that day by local fishermen. The anticipation is palpable as new fruit seasons approach and different fishing seasons come up. When you drive around the island in early spring, keep the windows down to fill your car with the flowery scent of mango. It will fill your lungs with joy. Feel free to stop on the side of the road and snag one off the tree, too. Nobody will sue you, I promise.





Sunset over Half Moon Bay, Roatan. Photo by Amanda Walkins




Lesson #5

Time is a concept, not a dictator. "Island Time" is a real thing, but it should not be solely for islands. We love watching tourists adjust to relaxation over the week or two they spend here. You can see a physical change in people as they take the watch off, leave the phone in the hotel room, and forget about where they "have to be" or are "supposed to be." Scheduling every minute of a day makes you ask where the years went. When the sun rises, a new day begins. When it sets, a new night begins. It's as simple as that. The sun doesn't live by the clock and you don't need to either. That realization can change your entire life.



Lesson #6

As writer Karen Blixen (pen name Isak Dinesen) wrote,"I know the cure for everything: Salt water...in one form or another. Sweat, tears, or the salt sea." There's nothing that one or all of those can't fix. Breathing in salt air daily is refreshing to the soul and reminds you that you're alive. After breathing city air for several years, I think I'm gaining back time lost on my life by living on the beach now. The healing qualities of nature cannot be overrated.



Lesson #7

Nobody ever said, "I really regret that time I spent relaxing on the beach." (Except for people who got really badly sunburned, but even that should be, "I really regret being lazy and not putting on sunscreen." Just saying. It's the tropics, people. If your pasty white skin hasn't seen the light of day in a while, cover it up before we mistake you for a lobster...in which case, please refer back to eating seasonally and cross your fingers it isn't lobster season.) Nobody regrets time they've spent enjoying life, time they've spent connecting with loved ones, or time they've spent unhurried and unburdened. Refer back to the lessons I've learned about island time, disconnecting to reconnect with people, and understanding needs versus wants. The world is going to keep spinning. What you do with your time on it will not change that fact. You can't make it spin any faster or slower, so just enjoy the ride. I'm enjoying mine on a beach chair facing the endless sea. And I don't regret any of it.





Amanda Walkins is a freelance writer currently based in Roatan, Honduras. She blogs about her accidental expat life at http://www.awalkontherun.com.



from Travel - The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/amanda-walkins/lessons-learned-living-on-a-caribbean-island_b_6225300.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel

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Route 66, Ride for the Relay, Day Eight

Saturday September 13, 2014 -- Acoma, New Mexico to Winslow, Arizona



What an action-packed day of beauty at every turn! We started our day at the Sky City Casino and the weather was cool, but the forecast predicted high 90's in the afternoon, so we dressed accordingly.



From the very beginning of the drive, we were wowed by the New Mexico landscape. There's a reason so many artists have found this place compelling. I think it's something about the contrast between the dusty rolling plains dotted with sage brush and the craggy adobe-colored stone outcroppings and emerging red mesas. The constantly evolving tale of geological evolution keeps my mind in a perpetual state of wonder: "How did all this come into being?" And then "Boy do I wish I could come here to paint"!







Our first stop was an Indian Trading Post at the Continental Divide. This was just one of many we saw today, but it was special (not just because they had a ladies room with two toilets next to each other with no wall in between?!) It was situated next to the official marker for the line that goes vertically through our nation: on one side water flows to the Pacific, on the other side to the Atlantic. Amazing!







We all did a little shopping here (another fun past time on this trip) and I wondered, how many Route 66 shirts will I come home with? - or do I really need yet another Route 66 shirt?







Our next stop was Gallup, New Mexico and the El Rancho Hotel (famous because John Wayne used to love hanging out here with his pals Humphrey Bogart, Ronald Reagan, Mae West, and other celebs when he was shooting his famous westerns during the 1930's and 40's). Its no wonder this landscape evokes a feeling that is deeply "American"; many of us grew up thinking this was the "wild west".







I walked all through town taking pictures and found yet another Indian Trading Post that had a cool car outside. I walked inside to ask about the car and met the sweetest couple, Tina and Pete Leyba. He was proud to share that he had owned the 1960 Chevy since it was brand new and I learned all about their life together: they have run this store for 50 years (part of the 6th generation of ownership) and have been married for 57 years. When it was time to leave, I hadn't even had a moment to look at their jewelry collection, but felt like I'd made two new friends. So next time you're in Gallup, New Mexico, look up the Leyba's.



Our group had lunch at Earl's, a "must" visit when you're in Gallup. The place was filled with Native Americans out with friends and family enjoying themselves. We learned that Gallup is the center of the Navaho Nation and we met a number of them selling their wares both inside and outside of the restaurant.







Not far west of Gallup the landscape began turning riotous colors with red mesas rising up around us and rock formations that reminded me strongly of the Sedona area. Somewhere out there we crossed over into Arizona - we never saw a sign telling us so, but knew from our GPS. Boy, how did we ever live without these devices on our phones? Ours has been a lifesaver many times over on this trip!







Our next stop was The Painted Desert and The Petrified Forest. It's so interesting because you drive along for miles with the flat monotone landscape stretching in all directions with big 360 degree skies and fluffy cotton candy clouds marching eastward. From surveying this flat horizon in all directions, you would never believe what awaits once you drive through the gate into the National Park. I'm going to let these photos tell the story - we just kept saying "wow" for most of the drive.







Just west of the park is one of my favorite attractions on Route 66, The Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona. Richard and I had visited several years ago in January and I took a lot of pics and used one of them for a painting. I couldn't believe that the car I painted was still parked in exactly the same spot! So here it is now on the left and my painting on the right titled "Snow Shadow at the Wigwam Motel".











I was sad that the Rock Shop with all the big dinosaurs outside was not open - on a Saturday? I took lots of pics of the friendly dinosaurs and once again peeked through the fence at the huge piles of petrified wood and rocks and wondered about the owner of the store and the story of the place. Like so many attractions on Route 66, a story of survival or a story of loss?







A really great photo op awaits between Holbrook and Winslow: the Jack Rabbit Trading Post! A funny little store with a gimmick - put a giant rabbit out front and a cool sign and folks will come to your gift shop! I bought a few postcards and marveled at American ingenuity - that's our roadside heritage, after all!



Winslow, Arizona was our home for the night. We liked the idea of entering the famed "standin' on a corner" town on old Route 66 to get the real flavor of the place. But we were saddened to see nothing but boarded up and abandoned buildings. We did love the brilliant mural and statue of Jackson Browne commemorating his song that made the town an icon. Of course we had to take the classic shot which has been done by thousands I'm sure.







Thank goodness we followed recommendations from a friend and had dinner at La Posada Restaurant. The famed hotel had top notch food so our day ended on a great note.

Thanks for coming along on the ride. Tomorrow we will visit the Grand Canyon!



Mary Anne Erickson is an artist who has been documenting the demise of our roadside culture for over 30 years in paintings and photography. Her work can be seen at http://www.vanishingroadside.com and you can follow her Route 66 adventures at http://www.facebook.com/Rtesixtysix.



from Travel - The Huffington Post http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mary-anne-erickson/route-66-ride-for-the-rel_7_b_6214294.html?utm_hp_ref=travel&ir=Travel

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