I wish you were here

Portland is an interesting cornucopia of beautiful nature, progressive culture, friendly people and delightful cuisine. 

Located at the confluence of 2 great rivers, the Columbia and the Willamette, the area was a magnet for early native tribes and more recent European pioneers. 

Although Lewis and Clark did not end their famous journey at this junction, they came close enough to open the way for future settlers. Portland became an incorporated city in 1851. Read more about Portland’s history here. 

Interesting Facts: Just before the official incorporation of the city, the land claim holders Pettygrove and Lovejoy argued about their favorite names for the area known as “The Clearing”. Lovejoy wanted to name it Boston after his hometown and Pettygrove preferred to name it after Portland Maine. They settled the dispute with a coin toss. The famous Portland Penny is now on display at the Oregon Historical Society in downtown.

My recent trip to Hollywood included an unforgettable night at the Hollywood Bowl for the LA Philharmonic's "Maestro of the Movies" show. Here’s a glimpse into my experience and some tips to make your visit to this iconic venue smooth and enjoyable.

An Evening at the Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl, a famous amphitheater nestled in the Hollywood Hills, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance. This open-air venue, surrounded by the Hollywood Hills and the famous Hollywood Sign, is a perfect setting for a night under the stars.

Nestled above Rancho Cucamonga and within the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, the Etiwanda Falls Trail offers a refreshing escape into nature, marked by its rugged beauty and the tranquil sounds of cascading waters. 

This moderately challenging hike is known for its steady incline, leading adventurers through diverse landscapes to the scenic reward of the falls. 

The path extends over a 3.2-mile out-and-back route, typically requiring around 1 hour and 45 minutes to traverse. Our journey spanned three hours as we frequently paused to soak in the breathtaking vistas. 

Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate and enjoy the Etiwanda Falls Trail, complete with hiker tips and interesting facts.

Most people spend their entire visit at Yosemite Valley and the surrounding area, missing out on wonderful nature and amazing adventures. If you have an adventurous spirit, leave the crowds behind and explore places like Hetch Hetchy Valley and Dam, Tioga Pass, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows.

If you are driving to Yosemite from the east, you will likely experience the breathtaking road through the Sierra Nevada mountains (Hwy 120). The road winds through mountain peaks, meadows, and lakes, reaching an elevation of 9,945 ft. at the Tioga Pass, the highest pass in California. Driving through this pass during winter can be dangerous, and the road is subject to closures.

Texas is the largest state in the contiguous U.S. and was an independent republic for a short while before joining the union.

They say everything is bigger in Texas. We experienced it firsthand as we crossed this huge state. It took us 2-days to cross, and along the way, we saw megacities like El Paso, San Antonio, and Houston.

Interesting facts: Texas had 6 flags over the years — those of Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the United States, and the Confederacy—which inspired the name of the Six Flags amusement park chain.

So, what things are actually bigger in Texas – other than the Texan egos?