A Great African Adventure: Tanzania & the Majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro

Arusha, Tanzania

My adventurous journey to Tanzania begins in town of Arusha, just 75 minutes from the Kilimanjaro International Airport and 75 miles from Mt. Kilimanjaro. For work, trips to Africa were few and far for me, so I was always thrilled when I got assigned one.

Naturally, my co-workers and I intended to plan a safari while in Tanzania. Arusha is a lovely place to stay, and even though we stayed at the Mount Meru Hotel, there are many other very nice accommodations in the town. Check out hotels in Arusha here.

Honestly, I never felt unsafe when we were traveling through Tanzania or while staying in our hotel. However, I still always check with the Department of State before traveling overseas, especially personally. To make sure you travel safe too, check out my article on The Safest Tips for Traveling Overseas.

Mount Meru Hotel – Arusha

I was highly impressed with this hotel and found it the perfect oasis to relax after long work days. The property is protected, and though there are certainly parts of the world I have traveled to that left me feeling unsafe- the Mount Meru hotel ensured this was not one of them.

The hotel pool area is absolutely stunning, so grab lunch by the pool as you relax all day! (Their brick oven pizzas are fantastic, if you need a poolside recommendation.) The hotel was able to book us a safari for the next day, but if you aren’t staying here and planning to go to Tanzania specifically, I recommend Viator.com. You can even book your whole trip through Viator; most likely, you will be in a group of other travelers, so this is a great and safe option for a solo or group traveler to meet others with the same adventurous passions for traveling.

Luxury Tent Accommodations

The next time I go to Tanzania, I plan to book a luxurious tent in the Serengeti National Park. This isn’t a Fyre Festival tent we are talking about here- these things are epic, and the Ole Serai Luxury Camp is a great option for a night or two. From here, you can also book a Safari into the National Park.

Lake Manyara National Park

The animals migrate to different parts of the country, so because of the time of year that we were in Tanzania, Manyara National Park is where our guide took us on our safari. Lake Manyara National Park is a 3-hour car ride from Arusha.

Check out this cool website to see when the “Great Migration” is happening each month so that you are not disappointed on your once in a lifetime chance to be on a safari.

Was the Safari Worth It?

Going on a safari has always been on my bucket list. It wasn’t like going to a zoo, although Disney’s Animal Kingdom Safari does do a good job if you think you won’t ever be able to make the long journey to Africa.

Being able to see these beautiful and wild creatures in their habitat was a dream come true. Thankfully we did see all the animals that we wanted to see. Our guide did mention that sometimes they do not see many animals so it can be disappointing if you have traveled a long way to check this off on your bucket list. It’s another great reason to check the Great Migration website above, to have the best chance! Either way it is a adventurous experience and I highly recommend it if you are able to make the journey.

Check out these other Trips that Viator offers:

Full-Day Trip to Ngorongoro Crater from Arusha Town
4-Day Tour to Tanzania’s National Par ks
Serengeti Balloon Safari and authentic bush breakfast – A great Proposal idea to book if you are planning to ask that special someone to marry you while in Tanzania! (It’s also just a really cool experience, if you aren’t.)

Mount Kilimanjaro

As we made our 3-hour drive to Lake Manyara for the safari, we could see Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance, and it was absolutely breathtaking. For bragging rights, it also ranks as the fourth tallest peak in the world! We didn’t have enough time on our trip to visit Mount Kilimanjaro National Park, but if you do, check out Viator Tours—Mountain Kilimanjaro Day Hike or The Best 6-Day Kilimanjaro Hiking Tour Via Machame route.

On our long drive to and from the safari, I was amazed by all the African tribes we passed along the road from the window. I saw a native African man walking with shoes made of tire tread—how ingenious! There seemed to be a simple contentment amongst them, as well as an independent spirit that I highly respect.

Tanzanites!

If you have not figured it out by the name, the precious gemstone Tanzanite comes from Tanzania. I am mesmerized by these beauties, and for good reason: they are 1000 times rarer than diamonds! They were only recently discovered in 1967 by Maasai herders in the Merelani Hills near Arusha. It was Tiffany and Co. who initially started selling the beautiful stone in 1968. (1)

One of the things I love to buy when traveling is earrings, particularly ones made with the stones of that region or country. This way, when you do a lot of traveling, you don’t end up with suitcases full of trinkets but instead small earrings that pack easily and will bring back memories each time you wear them.

You can find really great deals when looking for Tanzanite in Tanzania. These gems are stunning, and present in different shades of almost light purple to deep sapphire. Make sure you find a reputable dealer so that you don’t end up with fake stones for which you possibly paid a fortune.

And Now for your History Deep Dive…

The History of Tanzania is anything but simple. The country that we know today is made up of 120 different indigenous African tribes and was officially formed in 1964. Prior to this, Tanzania was part of a larger territory called Tanganyika which included the coastal region of Zanzibar.

From the 1880s to 1919, parts of Tanganyika became a part of a German colony in Eastern Africa. Following World War I and then under the power of the League of Nations, Tanganyika then came under British Authority. The British would use the region as a military post during World War II. In 1947, Tanganyika became a United Nations Trust under British rule until they gained their independence in 1961. (2)

The Arabs and the French became very interested in the slave trade in Kilwa, a town in Tanganyika, in 1776, taking advantage of the free labor it presented. (3) A famous Scottish explorer and Christian missionary who traveled named David Livingstone (“Doctor Livingstone, I presume?“) would become an anti-slavery activist during the mid-1800s throughout Tanganyika after seeing the slave trade firsthand. He pressured the British Empire to stop this horrific practice.

His plan was to open legitimate trade routes throughout the interior of Africa to allow for the slave trade to be destroyed. Livingstone would expose the horrors of the slave trade through his book The Life and Explorations of Dr. Livingstone. (4)

In 1873, the slave trade in Tanganyika was abolished by the British, but it would still go on secretly for some time after. (5) Astoundingly and unfortunately, the slave trade continues illegally throughout all parts of the world to this day.

Sources

(1). https://www.americangemsociety.org/birthstones/december-birthstones/tanzanite-history/#:~:text=Tanzanite%20History,while%20tending%20livestock%20in%201967

(2). https://www.britannica.com/place/Tanzania/German-East-Africa#ref419184

(3). https://www.britannica.com/place/Tanzania/History

(4). https://www.britannica.com/biography/David-Livingstone

(5). https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/2095/

(6). https://africanlanders.com/en/tanzania-en/tanzania-history-of-slavery-in-zanzibar/

Experience the Magic of Maine: A Journey of Adventure and Beauty

Acadia National Park – View from Cadillac Mountain

Experience the Magic of Maine

Growing up in Colorado, Texas, and Michigan, Maine always seemed like a far away place to me. However, after moving to the East Coast, I developed a desire to explore its coastlines. So, I decided to embark on a road trip to experience this beauty firsthand.

In 2011, I purchased a motorhome with the intention of traveling through the US National Parks. At the time, my boyfriend, who is now my husband, gifted me a book that has since led to countless adventures. This book is ideal for anyone who enjoys road trips, as it provides information on where to stop and the best scenic spots to visit along the way. I really can’t recommend it enough!

The Most Scenic Drives in America, Newly Revised and Updated: 120 Spectacular Road Trips (Reader’s Digest)

Starting our Journey at Bar Harbor on Mt Desert Island

Our journey began in Bar Harbor on Mt. Desert Island. The picture above doesn’t do justice to how adorable this town is. The maple and blueberry coffee for sale in the coffee shops is so delicious that I brought home a bag to savor the taste and memory of our trip.

Be sure to check out the low tide times and walk across to Bar Island. For 1.5 hours before and after low tide, a gravel bar is exposed connecting the town of Bar Harbor and Bar Island. We did almost get caught marooned on the island by the tide coming in, but it was fun to beat the water as it began to rise.

Check out the low tide and high tide details before heading over. Bar Island Trail

Acadia National Park is also located on Mt. Desert Island. It’s only a 15-minute drive, but once you hit Park Loop, south of Bar Harbor, you’re in for a one-way 20-mile road around the Island and Acadia. To drive all the way around Mt. Desert Island it is 70 miles in total. The traffic moves slowly because most people are there to enjoy the breathtaking view.

Cadillac Mountain

Cadillac Mountain towers above Maine at its highest point on the Eastern Coast. On the day of our visit, we had some fog and light showers, which is actually pretty typical weather. (So, don’t forget your raincoats!) We hiked up to the tippy-top, and from the views that we could see, it was spectacular. We always travel with our bicycles and found Acadia to be absolutely stunning for a bicycle ride.

Jordan Pond House

While in Acadia you will see signs for Jordan Pond House. Make sure to stop by the famous historic tea house and restaurant to order a basket of popovers. This really was a fun experience and the popovers were super delicious, served alongside honey and jams.

Best Place to Get Lobster Rolls

Before leaving Bar Harbor don’t forget to stop by C-Rays which was highly recommend by local Bar Harborites. Let me tell you their lobster rolls were absolutely to die for, and no one in my family was disappointed when we left.

Heading South Down the Coast

The second part of our journey was down the Coast of Maine starting at Ellsworth, home of the flagship store for L.L. Bean. We went into the store to check it out just for fun. Making our way down the coast and to all of the scenic points is almost 300 miles.

Camden

Camden is my second favorite town in Maine and it is extremely adorable, Bar Harbor being my first. We had the most delicious lobster dinner right in the harbor at sunset and even saw a seal swimming through all the anchored sail boats.

Just south of Camden is Rockport: the home of the famous seal named Andre. In the park there you will find a statue dedicated to this adorable seal. (If you have never seen the movie Andre you are definitely missing out, it’s a true story and unforgettable.) I re-watched this movie with my daughter and she fell in love, so we had to visit.

Port Clyde and the Marshall Point Lighthouse

We drove down to Port Clyde, which is the tiny quaint town on a peninsula and then took a bicycle ride down to Marshall Point Lighthouse. I would absolutely recommend you bicycle to the lighthouse, the road flows along with the sea. Do not miss stopping by this beautiful point.

Fun Fact: This lighthouse is also featured in the move Forrest Gump. The scene shows Forrest running to the end of the pier pictured above.

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor was the last stop on our coastal Maine tour. The quaint town of Boothbay is adorable and there are many lovely shops to spend the day checking out. Do not miss out on this cute town if you have time, even if you just want to stop for lunch.

Boothbay has the most gorgeous Botanical Gardens I have ever seen. I am a huge fan of visiting botanical gardens and this one does NOT disappoint. We spent half of the day wandering through the different trails. Of note: Maine is famous for “fairy houses” in the forest, and these gardens are full of them! Also, the giant forest troll sculptures add a bit of whimsy to the whole affair too.

Where to Stay

During our trip we were pulling our travel trailer. We stayed at three very lovely campgrounds, but our absolute favorite was the one in Rockport listed below.

Bar Harbor – Timberland Acres RV Park
Rockport – Sea Swell Megunticook Campground
Boothbay Harbor – Shore Hills and Campground

No camper, no problem – Check out great hotel rates in Maine here

And Now for a History Deep Dive….

The history of Maine is far from dull and is, in fact, incredibly interesting, with a story that is as fascinating as that of any other state. However, the history prior to the territory becoming the twenty-third state on March 15, 1820, did not come without its challenges.

Maine was originally home to the Algonquian speaking Natives. Unfortunately, when European settlers arrived, about ninety percent of these natives fell victim to foreign diseases. The French settlers are the first to arrive in the Acadia in 1604. From 1615 to 1675, Maine became a hotly contested battleground for its abundant resources between the French, English, and Native populations.

Royal Patents

Initially Maine was given a special status as a Royal Patent (A legal right given to an individual as an exclusive right or privilege) by Charles I. After the Revolutionary War, many English Loyalists who were proprietors (those awarded land by the King) of Maine left to go back to England. The legal right of the land was no longer owned by England and the proprietors lost their right to own it.

Major General Henry Knox, known as the first Secretary of War under George Washington during the American Revolution, would petition to inherit the land owned by his wife’s family who had gone back to England after the war.

Normally, the loyalist land of Maine should have been confiscated by Massachusetts. However, Knox’s plan was to have the patents/land ownership transferred to him through legislation. His plan was to make his fortune by selling small plots to settlers. Thus, he brought in a large number of laborers to Thomaston to build up the community. Most of these laborers were veterans of the American Revolution from New England. (1)

After the war, the Continental Army promised land to these veterans, and the people of New England were not happy to find out that the land promised was located in Ohio. This was too far and expensive to move for those who were already struggling financially. As an alternative, many of the New England Revolutionary War veterans believed that Maine was the cheapest and closest place for them to establish themselves.

Land and Liberty for Revolutionary Veterans

Land and Liberty were inseparable for these veterans, and ultimately it represented independence to them. They believed land was the way for them to provide for their families and make a good living. However, Knox and the other proprietors were unsuccessful in their attempts to sell plots to these veterans. Instead, the veterans banded together in several different extreme situations to scare Knox and proprietors off!

In 1805, the people of Maine ousted Knox from the Massachusetts legislature in the voting polls. The veterans of the American Revolution became a force to recon with and ultimately won their liberty (and land!) in the end. (2)

Sources

(1). https://www.britannica.com/place/Maine-state/Health-and-welfare

(2). https://www.mainepublic.org/history

Experience the Essence of Bali: Cultural Immersion and Adventure

Pura Ulun Danu temple on a lake Beratan. Bali Photo by GoodOlga

Experience the Essence of Bali: Cultural Immersion and Adventure

Bali is an Island destination in Indonesia that is absolutely stunning. But I’ll be honest here: we made mistakes when visiting this Island and I don’t want to see you suffer the same fate! In fact I probably should have named this “The Five biggest mistakes not to make when visiting Bali”… It should still serve the purpose however and keep your Bali visit a memorable one for all the right reasons.

Before we dig in though, check out my article on how to Stay Safe when planning travel overseas Here.

My husband and two of our dear friends were cruising on a 14-day Celebrity Cruise through Asia, stopping in Benoa, Bali for three days which was super exciting. We have a habit while cruising of stepping off of the ship and going on our own spontaneous adventures. This has given us the best travel experiences of our life, so in Bali that’s exactly what we did. You’ll see soon enough that in this particular instance however, it didn’t turn out quite as good for us.

…What went wrong?

So first of all, I want you to imagine Bali- what is the first image that comes to mind? Is it lush jungles, pristine beaches in secluded locations, or maybe just the picture at the top of this post? Well, you just imagined the Northern part of Bali. Where WE arrived at the city of Benoa is on the Southern part of the Island instead, which isn’t what you just pictured.

The south side of the island is more urban, and unfortunately the beaches where we were suffered from so much pollution that we didn’t feel safe even walking in the sand. Learning this on the fly, we suddenly yearned to see the “pre-1950s Hawaii” on the northern shores.

However, we learned Bali is an island ninety miles long by 49 miles wide! As such, it can take up to 3 hours get up there from Benoa where the cruise ports are located! Lesson here: if you arrive by cruise port and wish to see the northern shores, either book with the ship to ensure you don’t get left behind due to unexpected traffic, or plan ahead!

Bali Rice Fields

Fortunately because Viator Tours are so awesome and reliable I was able to book a private driver for two days. Because of our huge misconception about how long it would take to get to the scenic and adventurous parts of the island however, we ate up the majority of our visit staring out the window of a car. As we drove to our destination however we passed these scenic rice patty fields in the central region.

I’d never seen them before and they were mesmerizing. As it turns out, rice farming is the number one agriculture producer on the island. Our next stop was to see how the Luwaks made their famous coffee.

Luwak Coffee

Have you ever heard of “Cat Poop Coffee”? Well, there was a viral news story some years back using the phrase as an attention getter. It was supposed to be a phenomenal exotic drink otherwise known as Luwak Coffee, and honestly the comical moniker isn’t so far off from what it actually is. I’d never heard about it, but I was intrigued after one of our travel companions explained the whole process to us. So here it goes:

The fermented coffee beans are fed to these long-tailed cat looking creatures you see pictured above. Once they digest them, and excrete them whole out of their you-know-what, the beans are then re-collected, washed, and dried. Then a delicious coffee is made out of this very interesting gourmet process.

Did we try the Luwak Coffee? Yes we did. …And I can report that it was surprisingly delicious. It sure better be, since it is the most expensive coffee in the world (it can cost up to hundreds of US dollars per pound!) (1) After seeing the whole process involved in the operation though, it helps to understand why because it’s quite intensive. Check it out on Amazon if you are feeling adventurous and brave.

Mason Elephant Park & Lodge

Our Viator Driver then took us to the Mason Adventures Bali Park. This is a beautiful Elephant Reserve where you can grab a delicious lunch at the lodge and then go for a ride on the elephants.

These beautiful creatures are Sumatran elephants that have been rescued from poachers and offered a safer life in Bali. They are so playful and friendly, and it was fun to watch the elephants play with the caretakers.

As we were taking a photo with the elephants behind us, one of the babies put their trunk on my friend. It was so funny. Do not miss this opportunity if you have the chance to visit.

Mason Elephant Park in Bali

Visiting a Luxury Spa

Anytime I visit Asia, booking a massage is a must: they just have a gift when it comes to excellent massages, and Bali was no exception here. We booked a 2-hour massage with Viator and were more than pleased. If you have the time to spare, don’t skimp out on pampering yourself especially since the prices are so friendly and nobody knows more about massaging the lymphatic system than Eastern Medicine!

Check out Viators 2 Hour luxury massage experience for less than $40 USD

Where to Stay in Bali

The total cost to stay in a Bali 5-star hotel is much less than you might imagine. As I mentioned above, the North part of the island is where you’ll find the traditional photogenic parts of Bali so it’s where I’d recommend you put down some roots.

These accommodations won’t break the bank: the 4 bedroom Private Deluxe Villa in Lovina Beach pictured above is only $145 per night. Check it out here on Expedia.com.

Check out this 4 bedroom Private Villa Aparna – Luxurious Balinese right on the beach for $243 per night.

And here’s a 5BR Villa Near Lake and Forrest for $1,594.00 per night. Split between five families each night would only be $318.00 per family. What a steal!

And now for your History Deep Dive….

Native tribes, Dutch, Japanese, Indonesian, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists- Bali has changed hands to some pretty diverse peoples throughout the years! All of it culminates in an island with a unique cultural background you won’t find anywhere else.

During the late 1400’s, Muslims overthrew the Majapahit Empire which ruled over the large Island of Java, leading to a significant immigration of Hindu nobles and priests who could practice their religion in Bali. As such, Hinduism and Buddhism are intertwined with the Island’s rich cultural history.

In the late 16th Century, the Dutch came to the Island only to find many warring Muslim states. By 1882, the Dutch annexed the Northern states and were responsible for killing the Balinese Prince on the nearby Island of Lombok. Then, in 1906, the Dutch would end up killing 3,600 people of Bali and finally just taking it for themselves.

The beautiful Island remained under Dutch rule until Japan occupied it during World War II. In 1946 the Dutch and Indonesian Forces fought a battle ending in an Indonesian victory, and as a result the Island ultimately became a part of the Republic of Indonesia in 1950. (2)

Today, Bali is known as a peaceful and spiritual destination, and an amazing place to add to your bucket list.

Sources:

(1). https://www.britannica.com/topic/Kopi-Luwak

(2). https://www.britannica.com/place/Bali-island-and-province-Indonesia

(3). https://historyandtravel.blog/2024/01/12/safest-tips-for-traveling-overseas-preplanning-strategies/

Explore Abraham Lincoln Landmarks: A Journey Through History

Abraham Lincoln Landmarks

Today, Abraham Lincoln is regarded as a hero of freedom and the emancipator of slavery in the United States. But during his lifetime, he was not as well loved and received. In fact, his Presidency would mirror a political divide in the country that would ultimately lead to the Civil War, killing an estimated 750,000 Americans.

Most people today agree that Lincoln was a great leader, and his contribution to this country as President was bold. If you are a fan, visiting these Lincoln Landmarks is a must. Two of my favorite books on Lincoln are….

Bloody Crimes: The Funeral of Abraham Lincoln and the Chase for Jefferson Davis

And

Abraham Lincoln: A Life from Beginning to End

I became interested in traveling to the Lincoln landmarks after reading both books. There are quite a few landmarks that I may not mention here, but I will mention the ones I believe to be most important.

The National Park Service Site of Lincoln’s Boyhood home

Lincoln’s Boyhood Home in Kentucky

Lincoln was born in Hodgenville, Kentucky on February 12th, 1809. Kentucky maintains two sites, one a memorial of his birth place and the other his boyhood home from ages two to eight just 7 miles down the street in Knob Creek.

This is the place that would shape Lincoln’s early years of life. Most importantly it is amazing to see that this boy of humble origins would one day become one of the most important Presidents to ever have served the United States. (1)

Check out the National Park Service on Abraham Lincoln’s Birthplace

Lincoln Family Home in Springfield, Illinois

Springfield, IL is one of the most important places that would shape Lincoln’s legal and political life. In 1837 Lincoln would arrive to Springfield just after having passed the Bar in hopes of one day becoming a lawyer.

The National Park Service maintains Lincoln’s home that he and his family lived in for the seventeen years prior to him becoming the sixteenth President of the United States. This tour is one that you will not want to miss out on. (2)

Check out the National Park Service Lincoln Home in Springfield, IL

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois

The Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is absolutely a must for anyone who loves Lincoln history. The curators have done a fantastic job designing an exhibit that displays the family items and retelling the story of Lincoln’s life.

My husband and I got there a bit late on the day we were visiting and had to rush through it all, but just know that you could spend at least half of the day or longer in this museum. We were very impressed with it and I will definitely go back for a visit the next time I drive through Springfield. (3)

Check out the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum here

Tomb of Abraham Lincoln located in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois

The Lincoln Tomb in Springfield, IL

The history of Lincoln’s tomb is quite interesting. In 1876 crime boss Jame “Big Jim” Kinealy talked two of his men into acting in a plot to steal the remains of Lincoln for a large ransom. A third man was asked to assist who would become an informant to the newly formed Secret Service.

The Secret Service was able to scare the thieves off before they got away with Lincoln’s remains. The men would be tracked and found ten days after they broke into the grave.(4) Since then, Lincoln’s remains have been heavily buried under cement since 1901. (5)

Check out Lincoln’s Tomb and Take a Virtual Tour here

The Lincoln’s Stay in the Willard Hotel, Washington DC

The Willard is one of the famous hotels in DC that holds immense history. When Lincoln first arrived to DC prior to his inauguration he made this gorgeous hotel his home for ten days prior to moving into the White House. (6)

The Willard Hotel is one my favorite hotels in DC. Not just because of how beautiful the architecture or décor is, but because of the beauty of its history. If you have a chance to step into the Willard there is a beautiful painting of Lincoln in one of their sitting rooms.

Check out my previous article on The Ultimate Guide to the Best Historical Bar Tour in DC. I mention the famous Round Robbin Bar located inside of the Willard Hotel.

The Old Soldiers Home – Lincoln’s Cottage, Washington DC

The Old Soldiers Home in Washington DC is a lesser known landmark, but it is my absolute favorite out of all of the Lincoln landmarks.

This home was occupied by Lincoln and his family as a retreat during the hot sweltering summers in DC. In fact, four US Presidents used this cottage to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. He would write the final draft of the emancipation proclamation in this house and was there the day before he was shot.

When I took the tour our guide was a local history student who was working her internship. What is so different and amazing about this tour is that it is given from the first person perspective, almost as if you are visiting Lincoln through the eyes of a “primary source” (a term in the history business meaning “someone who saw it first-hand”). (7)

Do not miss out on the landmark if you are in Washington DC. President Lincoln’s Cottage at the Soldiers’ Home

WASHINGTON – APRIL 12, 2015: Stage and seating of Ford’s Theatre. The theater is infamous as the site of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination by John Wilkes Booth in 1865.

Ford Theater and the Peterson House

The Ford Theater and the Peterson house are located in Washington DC. You must purchase a ticket to go through the museum, as due to the small space they have to limit traffic through the building. I absolutely enjoyed this tour, and this is my second favorite Lincoln landmark behind Lincoln’s Cottage (my husband says this one is his favorite though, so it’s a close race!)

The balcony booth in the theater where Lincoln was shot is preserved with the bullet holes in the wall and decorated just the way it was the fateful night of April 14, 1865. (8)

The ticket you buy to visit Ford Theater is also good for the Peterson House, which is across the street. This is where Lincoln was taken after he was assassinated. Here you will see the bedroom that he would ultimately pass away in. (9)

Check for tickets and times here: Fords Theater and the Peterson House

WASHINGTON DC, USA – MARCH 29, 2020: Abraham Lincoln statue inside Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC, USA

Abraham Lincoln Memorial

The National Mall in Washington DC is obviously a must for anyone on their visit, and is without a doubt one of the most beautiful Memorials in all of the capital. For the most impactful atmosphere you won’t forget, make sure to visit the Lincoln Memorial right at sunrise, right at sunset, or anytime at night. I promise you will not be disappointed.

Sources

(1). https://www.nps.gov/abli/index.htm

(2). https://www.nps.gov/liho/planyourvisit/lincoln-home-tour.htm

(3) https://presidentlincoln.illinois.gov/

(4). https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/a-plot-to-steal-the-remains-of-president-lincoln.htm

(5). https://dnrhistoric.illinois.gov/experience/sites/central/lincoln-tomb.html

(6). https://washington.intercontinental.com/history/

(7). https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/presidents/lincoln_cottage.html

(8). https://fords.org/visit-us/historic-site-visit/#theatre

(9). https://www.nps.gov/foth/the-petersen-house.htm

Exploring Mackinac Island, Michigan: A Look Inside Grand Hotel

Mackinac Island, Michigan, August 8, 2016: Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan. The hotel was built in 1887 and designated as a State Historical Building. Photo by Alexeys.

Where Exactly is Mackinac Island?

Mackinac Island sits off the lower right side of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, located on Lake Huron. It is an 8-mile long island that is mostly visited in the summer as a resort. The island is also open through the winter as long as the the Lake is not frozen and the ferry is running.

My first visit to the island was when my Grandparents took my cousin and I to this magical place at the age of ten. We walked around the island that first time, and boy, were we ever tired. Since then I’ve learned to rent bikes, which is much less exhausting.

Mackinac Island, Michigan, August 8, 2016: Vacationers take on Market Street on Mackinac Island that is lined with shops and restaurants. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the island. Photo by Alexeys.

19th Century Feel

What is so special about this town? Not only do you need to take a ferry to get there, but no automobiles are allowed on this island. It is as if you are going back in time. The architecture of the town and the homes boast their original 18th and 19th Century aesthetic, and it is absolutely so historically cool.

See Mackinac Island Ferry Schedule Here

The only way to get around the island is by foot, bicycle, horse, or horse-drawn carriage. My next favorite thing about the island is that the movie Somewhere in Time was filmed here. The famous cast of the movie is Jane Seymour and the handsome Christopher Reeves.

Somewhere in Time (1980) Flim

Somewhere in Time

I remember watching this movie when I was seventeen and fell in love with it. It is one of my all-time favorite films that made me love the island even more. The film is about two people who fall in love despite being in different periods. A love story with time travel- who could resist? (I may or may not I cry every time I watch it…)

In fact every year the island has a themed Somewhere in Time Festival. Jane Seymore does show up as well as any other cast member that may still be alive. I will eventually make it to this festival, it is on my bucket list and the Grand Hotel offers this really neat Somewhere in Time package for the weekend.

The Grand Hotel purchased the red phonebooth in the (1978) Superman film with Christopher Reeves as a tribute. It is a fun to take a photo of the booth while you visit the island.

Mackinac Island, Michigan. USA. July 6, 2015. The beautiful Grand Hotel located on Mackinac Island opened in 1887. At 660 feet long the hotel boasts of having the largest front porch in the world.
— Photo by Ehrlif

The Grand Hotel

This Victorian style hotel is just gorgeous! There is something extraordinary about walking through historical hotels that I absolutely appreciate and love. The hotel opened in 1887 and is registered under the Historic Hotels of America. You can find many excellent historic hotels across the United States on this list of course, and I recommend if you like them like I do you should give the list a peek. (1)

Check out rates for The Grand Hotel here

The hotel is pretty pricey, but for a small fee you are able to explore the property as a visitor. Though for sure MY favorite, it’s not the only location that you might want to stay at on your next visit. Check out Expedia.com for a full list of accommodations and the best deal on your northern island adventure.

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

The Island holds its annual lilac festival in June. If you love lilacs, the Island is covered with them, and wow, does it smell amazing! For a whole ten days, they celebrate with a Lilac parade crowning a Queen Lilac, a 10K walk/run, and lilac planting seminars. (2)

Mackinaw Island Lilac Festival – Check it out here.

The History of the Island

Mackinac Island was originally an ancient burial ground for the Odawa Indians, who named the Island Michilimackinac, which means “Great Turtle.” In the 1600s, the French utilized the Island as a trading post and set up Jesuit Missions in the area. In 1715 the French built Fort Michilimachinac. (3)

The British would take over the Fort after the 7 Year War ended in 1763. The Island would then again be used by the British during the American Revolutionary War. The British would then re-occupy the Island in the War of 1812 and then lose it back to the U.S. in 1815.

The Island would then become the headquarters of the famous John Jacob Astor’s American Fur Company in 1822. Then, he eventually would turn it into a resort. The Astors are one of the founding financial men who built America. Interesting fact: His great-grandson John Jacob Astor IV would later go down on the Titanic alongside Benjamin Guggenheim. (4)

The Island is now to be enjoyed by all and is considered a State Park of Michigan. So, you should absolutely add this gem to your bucket list.

What to Do on the Island

(1). Bicycle around the Island – You can bring your bicycle over on the ferry or you can rent bicycles on the island. Check out all bike rentals here.

(2) Horseback ride around the Island or jump on a old fashioned carriage tour. Check out all horse and buggy reservations here.

(3) Check out Arch Rock – by bicycle or on a walking tour. Check out all walking tours here.

(4). The Island has a gorgeous golf course for avid golf lovers. Check it out here.

(5) Book a Spa Weekend. Check out all spas on the Island here.

(6). Find a great hotel deal on Expedia.com whether or not you plan on staying at the Grand Hotel.

No matter what you decide to do, I guarantee you to have a wonderful time.

Give the perfect gift to anyone who loves to travel and see the United States through the most scenic drives in America. The Most Scenic Drives in America, Newly Revised and Updated: 120 Spectacular Road Trips (Reader’s Digest) My husband and I have used this book for the past twelve years and cannot praise it enough for how amazing it is. In fact, it has a perfectly laid-out tour of the West Coast of Michigan and it ends your trip right at Mackinac Island- it’s perfect!

Sources:

(1). https://www.historichotels.org/us/hotels-resorts/grand-hotel

(2). https://www.mackinacisland.org/

(3) https://nmgl.org/michilimackinac-winter-1958/

(4). https://www.britannica.com/place/Mackinac-Island

5 Best Reasons to Stay in Moorea over Bora Bora for Your Vacation

Moorea, French Polynesia

Do you have a favorite place in the world? For myself that would be none other than this tiny French Polynesian Island in the Pacific. I have never seen an island wilder and more breathtaking than this one. Moorea is the second largest of the windward islands of what is known as the Society Islands in French Polynesia.

My husband along with two of our best friends and I found a spectacular deal on a Princess crui se that would start on the Island of Tahiti in Papeete, and eventually make its way to the nearby islands of Moorea, Rangiroa, Huahine, and Bora Bora.

As soon as we realized that the island of Moorea was a 25-minute ferry ride from the main island and airport in Papeete, we decided to book an extra three days before the cruise in Moorea. Check out the Ferry Schedule here.

5 Reasons to Stay in Moorea instead of Bora Bora for your Tahitian Vacation

1. Significant Cost Savings

Bora Bora is world-famous and widely known, so why would I recommend anyone traveling to Tahiti to stay in Moorea instead? My absolute number one reason is that it is less expensive by far to stay on Moorea as opposed to Bora Bora.

Both islands are equally spectacular, but Moorea is far less expensive and just as breathtaking as Bora Bora. When we first stayed on Moorea, we booked a VRBO house on the water next to the Intercontinental hotel for $250 a night. This got us a 2 bedroom and 2 bath house with it’s own private beach, fire pit, kayaks, and paddle boards!

You can easily research hotels on expedia.com on Moorea and Bora Bora and you will see what I mean.

I did a quick search on the over-water bungalow hotels on Moorea, which are $500.00 per night versus $1,700.00 per night on Bora Bora. The Intercontinental on Moorea offers rooms starting at $350.00 per night, so there are deals to be had on the island for sure. While both locations have bungalows over the water, there are other places to travel to on the island besides just the beach which leads me to the subject of Intra-Island travel.

2. Intra-Island Travel

One of the major bummers about traveling to Bora Bora is that since it is an atoll, almost all of the major hotels are out in their own secluded (isolated) locations outside of the middle of Bora Bora, making getting around the island to see other places a little cumbersome. In Moorea, you can rent a car from Avis or reserve a car at a great price on Expedia.com and get around the island quite easily (even if the roads can get a little bumpy!)

Driving around Moorea is breathtaking. My eyes were constantly in awe of the scenery of the mountains and the clear blue water. The whole car was in silent awe of the scenery each time we hit the road (except when my husband was behind the wheel and we were all a bit frightened… You see, he likes to drive fast and “thread the needle” between massive potholes!) My friends were thankful when I eventually relieved him of his driving duties, and we were back to admiring the scenery instead of clutching our seatbelts.

Resort Hopping

In Bora Bora, we decided not to let the difficulties with intra-island travel get the better of us even despite it’s lack of interconnecting roads, so we chartered our own private boat and Captain and navigated to the Sofitel hotel in order to get a cocktail… only to be kicked out instead since we were not staying there. Talk about a disappointment after going through all the trouble to get there! This is the case for all the major hotels outside of the Island proper- so don’t make our mistake and expect to go visiting all those pretty properties by boat if you don’t have a room key!

The good news is, that isn’t the case in Moorea. You can rent a car as soon as you get off the ferry from Papeete and drive to all the picturesque hotels you like to have dinner and cocktails at their resorts, as they are in fact connected by these convenient little things they have there called “roads”. Experiencing beautiful hotel properties (and cocktails!) is one of my favorite things to do when traveling, and Bora Bora’s infrastructure put a damper on those plans for sure.

In other words if you stay in Bora Bora, you will mostly be relegated to your own resort property as opposed to Moorea, where you can freely move around the Island and experience a bunch.

3. Mount Rotui and the Primitive Island

This Moorean mountain is magical and absolutely stunning. We could’ve spent a couple of hours exploring and hiking, but instead we “cheated” and drove up to the tippy top by car. That way, it was only a short hike to some amazing photos.

Bora Bora has Mount Otemanu, which is in the center of the atoll. While both mountains are gorgeous, Mount Rotui on Moorea is so much more pronounced than Otemanu and I literally could not stop staring at its beauty.

Moorea just makes me feel like I am Captain Cook discovering it for the first time. The beauty of the island is kept primitive (on purpose) and gives the visitor a secluded feel during the whole visit.

In fact, one of the bonuses about traveling to the French Polynesian Islands is they are not overcrowded, and Moorea gets top marks in this aspect.

4. The Local Restaurants

The French Polynesian Restaurants have a fusion of French, Hawaiin, Polynesian, Chinese, and Vietnamese cuisine, and they incorporate coconut and Tahitian Vanilla in many of the dishes. Bora Bora has a famous restaurant/bar called Bloody Mary’s where all the movie stars go and has quite a history for famous patronage. Honestly though, other than this one amazing gem I did not find the amazing restaurants that I found in Moorea (once again scoring a point for it over Bora Bora).

My husband and our dear friends love to eat a dish from these islands called Poisson Cru which is tuna marinated with lime and coconut milk. Everywhere we went they would order it and it is by far one of the most popular dishes in French Polynesia.

Coco Beach Moorea

A place that you need to visit on the island. I cannot describe how cool this place is. Head over to Coco Beach for lunch, and make sure you reserve a table before you head over. There are sting rays that just float by as you sit in the crystal-clear water drinking your cocktail.

Touring all of the hotels on Moorea led me to find the best place to get a cocktail with a view too. The winner in this regard: Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort.

The best pizza and atmosphere on Moorea award goes to Vai’are Pizza and make sure you try the coconut ice cream- it is so delicious! (Can you tell I am a foodie?)

Do not hesitate to make your way to the main grocery store on Moorea to buy some Tahitian vanilla beans and Monoi Tiki Tahiti Coconut Oil (for your skin) at the Municipal Market. Tiki Oil smells like a fragrant perfume of vanilla and coconut while moisturizing your skin- perfect for exuding the island vibe. Also, if you are going to re-create our little adventure on Moorea and rent a house you should absolutely swing by the market for some snacks to stock the place up with on the cheap.

5. More Adventurous Activities

There are so many great adventurous activities to do in Moorea. Again, Bora Bora is also just as breathtaking, but I feel as though Moorea edges it out in this category as well.

Top Tours

Viator.com is my number one go to for booking trips when traveling overseas. They are always reliable and have fantastic customer service and unique tours.

Lagoonarium Snorkeling – Best place to snorkel to see all kinds of sea creatures.
Ocean Wildlife Expedition; Swim with Whales, Sharks, and Rays
Half Day Guided Hike to Afareaitu Waterfall
Private Boat Tour of Lagoon
Moorea 3-Hour Jet Ski Tour
Foodie Option – Moorea 4WD Tour Inc. Belvedere, Pineapple Farm, Magic Mountain.

And Now for Another History Deep Dive…

Captain Cook’s Bay

As you sail into Moorea you will notice the famous Cook’s Bay, which is absolutely stunning. This bay is named after the famous Captain Cook. A British naval explorer who conducted three expeditions to the Pacific during the 18th Century.

Cook anchored his famous ship the Endeavor in the bay on his first circumnavigation around the world. On his first voyage Cook was tasked by the British Royal Society in 1769 to take some men and their assistants to the Tahitian Islands. Their mission was to observe the movement of the planet Venus across the sun. It is in Cook’s Bay in Moorea where they would observe this strange request. (1)

Moorea was first discovered by Capt. Samuel Wallis in 1767. The Society Islands were named in honor of the Royal Society, which had commissioned the expedition under Captain James Cook. (2)

Cook would later be killed by Polynesians in a squall over a stolen cutter on his third trip to the Pacific. Cook’s famous journal details the indigenous people that he encountered on the Tahitian islands. (3)

If you are interested in reading more about Captain Cook’s adventures through the Pacific and his experience discovering the people of the Tahitian Islands check out The Journals of Captain Cook.

Are you ready to book your trip?

I hope that I have convinced you of the 5 Reasons why you should stay in Moorea over Bora Bora. (But if you remember only one of them, it’s that you can vacation in the Tahitian Islands for 1/3 of the cost!) Moorea is my favorite and I think you should add it to your bucket list. Take a day trip to Bora Bora instead. I promise you will not regret it, and neither will your pocketbook.

Sources:

(1). James Cook | Biography, Accomplishments, Ship, Voyage Route, Family, Death, & Facts | Britannica

(2). French Polynesia – Tahiti, Oceania, Colonization | Britannica

(3). Cook’s journal | National Museum of Australia (nma.gov.au)

Experience the Best Day in Tuscany

The Best Day in Tuscany

Have you ever met anyone who said they don’t love Italy? Not me; I love everything about that country: The food, the beauty, the people, the history. Italy has many amazing cities, but Florence is at the top of my list. Caprese salad and gelato everyday, yes please. I watched “Under the Tuscan Sun” probably one too many times growing up, and as a result I cannot fathom who wouldn’t want to buy a run-down villa in Tuscany, meet an Italian love interest, and live happily ever after while eating fresh pressed olive oil and drinking Chianti wine?

One of my favorite activities while exploring new cities is seeing them on a bicycle tour, so as soon as I saw my itinerary for work was taking me to Florence, I began planning a bicycle tour for my crew members during our day off. The plan was to bicycle through Tuscany, stop at a Villa where they made olive oil and Chianti for lunch, and then head back to our hotel.

**The City of Florence, The David by Michelangelo, and the Cathedral of S**anta Maria del Fiore

Beautiful Florence

Tuscany is a region in Central Italy that spans almost 23,000 square kilometers, and as such there are many villages and cities that you can visit within Tuscany. The city that I most highly recommend visiting though is Florence; the Chianti region is right outside. Florence requires one or two days to explore and enjoy the breathtakingly fantastic city, but The Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore and Michelangelo’s sculpture of David cannot be missed if you only have a short time.

The last time I was in Florence, I discovered a fantastic antique flea market while walking through the Santa Croce neighborhood near San Lorenzo Market: the antique flea market in Piazza dei Ciompi. I love antique jewelry and saw quite a few exquisite pieces. Sadly I did not have as much time as I would have liked to look, but I would go back in a heartbeat.

Where to stay?

Suppose you desire to stay in a Tuscan Villa, In that case, I highly recommend staying at the Art Hotel Villa Agape. The hotel is just outside of Florence and includes a shuttle to take you into the city.

If you would love to be right in Florence, may I recommend Palazzo Lorenzo Hotel Boutique & Spa

You really can’t go wrong with either of these, trust me!

Bicycling through the Best Day in Tuscany!

So there we were, an Air Force crew ready early one morning to bicycle through Tuscany! The morning air was crisp but the sun was shining, and it would be a fantastic day. We met the Viator.com tour guide at one of their offices. Our tour guide prepared an espresso with cinnamon for all of us; it was delightful, and I loved it so much that I bought one of those fun Italian espresso makers to take home.

Viator.com is my number one go to for planning tours all over the world- they are simply top notch when it comes to tours. The bike tour that we booked is Tuscan Country Bike Tour from Florence, Including Wine and Olive Oil Tastings. Our guide adjusted all of the bikes for us, loaded them up in the van, and away we went. We drove through the roads you see in photos of Tuscany with the beautiful Italian Cypress trees. We were there in the spring, so all the beautiful red poppies and other gorgeous wildflowers in the fields were emerging. Magical!

Our Viator guide was so excellent, we even got a little history tour. We rode past the home of Niccolo Machiavelli, the famous Renaissance philosopher, politician and writer who wrote his masterpiece “The Prince” while living in Chianti. The Villa Machiavelli is now a restaurant; it’s popular (for a reason!), so you should make reservations if you plan to dine there.

Some famous Machiavelli quotes:

“Everyone sees what you appear to be, few experience what you really are.”

“The first method for estimating the intelligence of a ruler is to look at the men he has around him.”

“Appear as you may wish to be”

The Pasta, Olive Oil and Chianti Wine

After cycling for a few hours, we finally arrived at a beautiful villa where the olives and chianti grapes are pressed. We were greeted by the owner of the villa, who gave us a tour of their beautiful gardens while offering us a glass of chianti wine. I admit that at that time Chianti was not a wine I had ever tasted. What I found was that it was absolutely delicious and I quickly fell in love.

Our host prepared a plate with olive oil made at the villa, with some freshly baked bread, and I can honestly say I was in heaven. We sat around the table enjoying the homemade Tuscan platters the owner had prepared while waiting for the delicious pasta meal he was preparing.

After our meal it was time to head back to Florence, but the crew all bought bottles of olive oil and Chianti wine to take back home with us. Trust me, I savored that olive oil until the very, very last drop.

So of course since we rode a bike to the villa, we must also ride back to Florence (and it was just as lovely as the first leg of the journey.) To this day, I have friends who remember this trip very fondly. If you love to get on a bicycle, this is one of the most incredible places you will ride and create some fantastic memories.

Raphael’s Portrait of Pope Leo X and his cousins, cardinals Giulio de’ Medici and Luigi de’ Rossi (ca. 15181519) famous painting. Original from Wikimedia Commons. Digitally enhanced by rawpixel.

And Now for a History Deep Dive!

Italy boasts historical beauty in almost all of its cities. They are all very different in ways, but I found Florence to be my favorite even above Venice; and I think that says a lot, right? There is an aura to this eye-pleasing city that holds a different feel. Several famous Renaissance artists, architects and philosophers: Leonardo Davinci, Michelangelo, Niccolo Machiavelli and Galileo all hail from this beautiful town, and I can’t help but think it’s visually spectacular nature had something to do with that. (1)

Florence comes from the Latin word Florentius, meaning “flourishing or prosperous” and it was founded by the Roman military in 59 BC. The hills of Tuscany just outside Florence were instead occupied by the Etruscans.

The Etruscans

Historically, where the Etruscans initially came from is an ongoing debate. The Romans in Florence took on most of the Etruscan culture and architectural style. The Etruscans are said to be the early artists of wall frescos, terra cotta portraits and the oh-so-amazing focaccia bread. (2)

Why did Florence flourish and become one of the most incredible places during the Renaissance period? That would be mainly due to the Medici banking family. During the 15th Century this middle-class family would gain much wealth through commerce and banking.

The Medici Banking Family

The Medici family had ambitious sights on gaining royal titles in the town of Florence while it was still considered to be a republic. Through the election of the Medici popes in the 16th Century, they would become dukes of Florence and grand dukes of Tuscany.

The family’s story is fascinating and should be studied all on it’s own. Check out this excellent video below on the Medici family and how they intertwined as Popes, married into royalty, and funded much of the mesmerizing art in Florence.

Another great option to learn more about the Medici’s is the book The Family Medici: The Hidden History of the Medici Dynasty written by Mary Hollingsworth.

The Medici’s power lied in their wealth, which they leveraged to become the official bank of the Catholic Church. The Medici had built their wealth through a gold-based currency, Flourin, in 1253 AD, which became one of the first coin currencies of Europe for Intra-trading. The Medici Bank was officially founded in 1397 AD.

They would go on to hold great power over royalty and the Catholic Church through financial politics. To me, this sounds very similar to how the Rothschild and other banking families would also gain their power in the following centuries. A side effect of their rise to prominence, artists and political philosophers would be elevated by the Medici’s, who spurred some of world history’s most outstanding and brilliant works during what historians call the Renaissance period. (4)

The fall of the Medici Bank

The Medici Bank would eventually collapse around 1494 AD due to enormous debts that could not be paid. One of the most interesting reasons is that England owed a massive debt to the Medici Bank’s London branch, and the massive default by the British monarchy led to severe sanctions on the businesses linked with the Medici Bank.(5)

So, next time you are in Florence getting ready for your bicycle ride through Tuscany, you can thank the Medici’s, the “godfathers of the Renaissance”, for their part in commissioning one of the most fantastical Italian cities you have ever laid your eyes on.

Don’t you just love history!?!

Image by Andrea Spallanzani from Pixabay

Ready to Book your Trip to Tuscany?

Where should you stay? – Art Hotel Villa Agape (Just outside Florence) or Palazzo Lorenzo Hotel Boutique & Spa (In Florence)
What tours should you do? – Tuscan Country Bike Tour from Florence, Including Wine and Olive Oil Tastings or Chianti Wine Tour from Florence
Don’t forget to visit the Florence Antique Flea Market – Mercatino di piazza dei Ciompi

Sources:

(1). https://www.britannica.com/place/Florence
(2). https://www.britannica.com/topic/Etruscan
(3). https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-9780195399301/obo-9780195399301-0260.xml
(4). https://belleten.gov.tr/tam-metin/3645/eng
(5). https://gwern.net/doc/history/medici/1963-deroover-theriseanddeclineofthemedicibank.pdf

Plan the Perfect Day in Paris: Tips & Ideas

The First Visit to Paris

Paris is one of those cities on many people’s bucket lists. At 19, being stationed at Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany, was a dream, and the first place on my list to visit was Paris. The Moral, Welfare, and Recreation office on the military base offered day trips to surrounding European countries. I booked a day trip to Paris as fast as I could.

We had approximately seven hours to roam the city and then we had to be back to the van for the five hour journey home. I had a list of places I planned on seeing that day and the driver thought I was crazy. I wanted to climb the Eiffel Tower, check out the Mona Lisa, walk into Notre Dame, and most importantly I had to visit Versailles. The history of Versailles is so rich and I wanted to walk the halls and explore the most beautiful French palace that was ever built. What I did not know at the time was that Versailles was one hour outside Paris by train and this was probably why the driver looked at me as if there was no way I would make this trip.

I climbed the Eiffel Tower, walked into the Louvre, made my way straight to the Mona Lisa, and saw nothing else. I just needed to see it with my own eyes. Then, trying to speak high school French to a local asking how to get to Versailles, he quickly realized I spoke the worst French and began speaking in English. He was able to help me get on the train in the direction where I needed to go to visit the historical palace. When I say I walked through it, I was speed walking and was also able to make it through the gardens. Back to the train and one final destination, the gorgeous Notre Dame Cathedral. I did it all in seven hours.

**Versailles Palace, The Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre**

Slightly Disappointed

I felt slightly disappointed when I arrived home after visiting Paris for the first time. That is a terrible thing to say, I know. Paris did not seem the way I imagined it to be. Years later, when I began my second career as a flight attendant flying around the world carrying diplomatic missions, I genuinely got to know Paris and came to love the city. Paris was a city we would fly to often, and I realized eventually why it was slightly disappointing the first time.

So…..Let me share with you how to have The Perfect Day in Paris.

First thing is first – Do visit the Louvre, Versailles Palace, the Eiffel Tower, and all of the amazing museums that Paris has to offer. Viator.com is my favorite tour company to book all tours with when traveling overseas.

These tips will allow you to immerse yourself in the Parisian culture, which is the experience that I was initially seeking.

Montmartre

It was not until several times after being in Paris that I even knew about this area. In fact, my husband and I were both in Paris at the same time on diplomatic missions on our 30th birthdays and our first anniversary. I booked a photographer to take photos of us in Paris. Our photographer is one hundred percent responsible for showing us the most beautiful spots in Paris, and that is what I was missing the first many times I went to Paris.

This is the area that I grew up watching in movies, where you sit and drink a café, order delicious crepes, and watch the artists trying to sell their beautiful paintings. I flew my very last Air Force trip to Paris and one of my best girlfriends happened to be on the mission with me, we ordered wine and sat there all day people watching. I Love, love, love Montmartre and I know you will too.

Paris Photoshoot

We had so much fun doing this photo shoot in Paris. We were up early in the morning so that we could be at Trocadaro Place before there were any people around. We were with one of the most amazing photographers in Paris, his name is Antoine Monfajon and I would absolutely recommend him if you are planning an upcoming visit to Paris. Or maybe you just need to start planning one now.

Basilica of Sacré Coeur

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is absolutely stunning, not to mention you will have the most gorgeous view of Paris at the top of the steps. The Basilica took 39 years to build, finally opening its doors in 1914. The Basilica is in the Montmartre area so you should definitely not miss it.

Bicycling around the Eiffel Tower

This was by far the most fabulous place I have ever cycled. We didn’t exactly take our bikes under the Eiffel Tower as this lovely couple in the picture is doing; we were in the bicycle lane that circles around the Eiffel Tower next to all the Parisian drivers. It seemed a bit crazy, but there were quite a few bikers, so it was pretty thrilling. I also recommend this bike tour around Paris with Viator.com

Pro Tip: Find a seat in a local café next to the Eiffel Tower anytime after dusk. You will enjoy a sparkling Eiffel Tower show until late into the night. They also sell champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower. If you are planning a special occasion, what other place would be more perfect to celebrate.

Crepes

You must eat crepes in Paris. The sweet and savory crepes are oh-so delicious! Make sure you visit Breizh Cafe on the Canal and enjoy the fantastic view while sipping on your café or wine while eating delicious crepes.

Macarons

I was never a fan of macarons; any time I tried them, they were stale and never tasted good until this one time in Paris. They were warm, soft, and full of yummy goodness. My favorite flavor is violette; it is unbelievably delicious. Want to know the best Parisian place to get it? While you are in Montmartre visit Biscuiterie De Montmartre.

Where to Stay

Paris can be tricky when determining the best hotel to stay at. The rooms are a bit on the smaller side, but one place that I have stayed on my visits is Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel, or you can look for the best deal at this hotel on Expedia.com to see if you can reserve the room for a better price. The history of this gorgeous hotel is that it hosted the reception party of Charles Lindbergh’s flight across the Atlantic. How dreamy to imagine as I sat in the hotel bar thinking about the night of that fabulous party in 1927. This hotel has also been frequented by kings, queens, and heads of state since 1927. (1)

And Now For your History DEEP DIVE!

The history of France is long and complex, and you could spend your whole life studying just one of the monarchies or even Napoleon Bonaparte, a powerful military man who immensely influenced France in the early 19th century. I find myself wondering if the younger generation of Americans know who solidified the win for the American Revolution? Well, that would be none other than France.

The French Revolution began in 1789, shortly after their assistance in helping the American Colonies to defeat England between 1778 and 1782. If the French had not come to our aid, there might have never been a United States of America, and we could have continued to be ruled under the British Empire. It is quite a fascinating history indeed.

Paris historically has been a hot bed for spies. One of the most famous American spies who lived in Paris during the American Revolution was Benjamin Franklin. He was surrounded by spies while fulfilling his position as the American diplomat in Europe. Franklin’s intelligence work in France would become a significant win for the Revolutionary cause, making his fortune as a printer, journalist, and newspaper proprietor who had many influential contacts and friends in Europe. (2)

Owner and publisher of the Pennsylvania Gazette, he was no stranger to writing propaganda that would be put to good use during his time in Paris as the Post Master General of the United States. In 1775 he became the dominant leader in the Continental Congress’s foreign policy and foreign intelligence, referred to as the Committee of Secret Correspondence. (3)

In September of 1776, Franklin, Silas Dean, and Arthur Lee were appointed members of a diplomatic mission to France to secure an alliance with the French and ask for aid to win the War. In Franklin’s personal papers, a woman friend told Franklin that spies surrounded him shortly after moving to Paris in 1777. The French Police kept a close watch on Franklin. The threat to his mission came from the Paris Network of British Intelligence; mostly Americans, ran by Paul Wentworth of New Hampshire. Franklin’s secretary and confident Edward Bancroft was a friend of Wentworth’s and a spy for the same network sending information back to Britain. (4)

The mission of Silas Dean was to arrange ports beyond the reach of the British that would be made secretly available for American ships. From these secret bases, American vessels could harass British merchant ships. He worked with Pierre Augustin Caron De Beaumarchais on a clandestine operation through a cover corporation, Hortalez & Cie. France wanted to help the Americans, but were not ready for an alliance. This covert corporation designed by the French would bring the Americans the supplies, weapons, and eventually French troops that were urgently needed to win the War. (4)

Arthur Lee was a writer of political tracts and colonial politics for the Virginia Gazette. His role was to work with Dean and most likely assisting Franklin in the solicitation of Black Propaganda. The three men would accomplish their mission in Paris, but Dean would become a double agent for the British during his time negotiating in France. (3) Can you believe this all happened in Paris during the American Revolution? Franklin would not be replaced until 1785 by none other than Thomas Jefferson. (5) If only the walls and buildings of Paris could talk.

Oh how I love Paris! There is something for everyone in this remarkable city. What are you waiting for?

Recommendations for a fantastic time in Paris

Where to Stay – Paris Marriott Opera Ambassador Hotel
Where to Eat Macarons – Biscuiterie De Montmartre.
Where to Eat Crepes – Breizh Cafe on the Canal
Montmartre Hill Sweet & Savory French Gourmet Food & Wine Tasting Tour
Skip-the-Line: Louvre Museum Masterpieces Fully Guided Tour
Paris Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tour
Montmartre Hill French Afternoon Tea Tasting Tour with Crepes and Macarons
Private 2.5 hour Bike Tour around Paris

Sources

(1). Historic Hotels Then and Now

(2). “Benjamin Franklin, Espionage and Counter-Espionage.” George Washington’s Mount Vernon. https://www.mountvernon.org/library/digitalhistory/digital-encyclopedia/article/benjamin-franklin-espionage-and-counter-espionage/.

(3). The Encyclopedia of American Intelligence and Espionage, 198.

(4). Lopez, Claude-Anne. My Life with Benjamin Franklin. Yale University Press, 2000.

(5). https://history.state.gov/milestones/1776-1783/b-franklin

Discover the Beauty of Belize: Travel Itinerary from Coast to Jungle Part 2 – The Jungle

Can You Belize It

If you haven’t read the first part of this blog which began in the Belize location of Ambergris Caye (San Pedro), check it out at The Best Belize Travel Itinerary Part 1 – Ambergris Caye.

Often when I talk about Belize people are confused regarding its location, so it is important to clarify that Belize is situated in Central America as this will help you understand that it has not only island-like beaches, but mainland jungle as well.

For the second part of our journey/honeymoon we headed off into this latter environment and booked the sister lodge to Matachica: Gaia Riverlodge. Situated in San Ignacio, it’s rated as one of the Top Small Luxury Hotels of the World- a little wonderland located inside of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

Yes you read that correctly: a pine forest inside of the jungle. Crazy, right? If you are wanting to repeat our adventure and book here too, I am a huge fan of Expedia.com. I always check Expedia to see if I can get a better deal than at the hotel’s own website, and I usually come out on top with it.

Ok back to the story: Eventually we found ourselves on the last day of the “beachy” part of our honeymoon in Ambergris Caye, and it was time to travel to the Gaia Riverlodge located in mainland Belize. The San Pedro airport we had to use is a unique gem in and of itself: just a tiny dirt runway, a few little puddle-jumper planes that fit a max of nine people, and a tiki-hut bar right next to the airfield.

It all added up to create quite the adventurous atmosphere which felt like we were in a spy film playing agents on the run. So, we had to jump back on the little plane with Tropic Air and take a short flight to the Maya Flats Airport near San Ignacio where the REAL Indiana Jones adventure would begin.

Day 1 – Flying into San Ignacio

As we landed at the San Ignacio airport a private driver from our lodge was waiting to take us to our Jungle abode inside of a Pine Forest which we did not realize would be the case until we were driving through it. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest contains sporadic jungle resorts spread out along the landscape and trust me when I say that when you’re there, you are very secluded.

Yes, your cell phone does work but you might want to put it away for this once in a lifetime experience. As we arrived to the Gaia Riverlodge we were met with staff ready to show us where we would be staying for the next four nights.

Our room was in this amazing bungalow overlooking the jungle and once we finished putting away our stuff we headed to the main lodge- ready to order our first jungle cocktail. I ordered the Watermelon martini… perfection!

At the Lodge

As we sipped our cocktails made by our very own bartender (because no one else was in the lodge), I imagined we were going to go on an adventure the next day to discover a mythical treasure at a Mayan temple hidden deep in the jungle. The lodge manager came over with a private tour adventure book that we could choose for each day. 

Once we selected our tours for each of our full days at the lodge, we were told that we could take an outdoor "elevator" down to an amazing waterfall right there on the resort grounds, order a picnic basket with wine, and relax while the sounds of nature calmed our minds. 

We were in heaven. The "elevator" was a bit like a mini cable-car, and it whisked us slowly down the mountainside to the river below the lodge where we found a slice of paradise exactly as described. Multiple waterfalls cascade down right in front of an area you can lay and relax at in the center of the river with water flowing by on all sides. The picnic was great, and the atmosphere just so relaxing.

Day 2 – Horseback Riding through the Jungle

After waking up on day two, we strolled to the main lodge overlooking the waterfall for breakfast. All of the meals at Gaia Riverlodge were freshly made on-site, absolutely fantastic, and they now have an organic garden that they also incorporate into their meals. Our tour guide picked us up shortly after we finished savoring the breakfast, and off we went to the home of the Mayan farmer who would be the horseback riding guide for our epic adventure.

I might have a very overactive imagination: I had dreamed up this magical moment where we would be riding through the jungle, and there would be monkeys all around us causing a ruckus, but that is not what happened. There was barely any sound as we rode through the jungle for hours, punctuated by the guide pulling out a machete to hack clear the path, and times when he would share his knowledge of flora, fauna, and sites of historical significance.

Eventually we came upon this old Mayan cave leading underground, nearly invisibly lurking under some jungle foliage. Our guide asked us if we wanted to go down inside and see some old skeletons and Mayan jars.

“Uhhh…. No, thank you” was my reply. There was no way on God’s green earth that I would go under a bunch of jungle foliage where who knows what creatures were lurking and where no one could find me if I slipped somewhere deep into this cave.

My brain began to go into fear mode, but my husband, who sometimes seems so fearless, said he wanted to go. So…. The guide took him into the cave and left me with his machete (yes, that is right, he handed me a weapon “just in case”) and had me get off the horse. Now there was only me and the three horses, and suddenly the jungle seemed to become so loud that fear swept over me.

I began to swing my machete 360 degrees just in case I needed to use it; in case some dangerous animal decided to approach me. Earlier we were told how tarantulas liked to hide in the leaves on the ground, leaves I was now standing ankle-deep in…

The men-folk were gone down in the belly of the Earth for twenty minutes or so, but it sure felt like an hour. We all got back on our horses and returned to the lodge for another watermelon martini (I’m telling you, they were good).

Day 3 – Visit to Ancient Mayan Ruins in Caracol

What is a trip to the Belizean jungle without seeing some ancient Mayan ruins? After enjoying another delicious breakfast at the Gaia Riverlodge, we were picked up by a different tour guide from the one we had the day prior; it was great to meet different Belizeans who knew the area very well and were so excited to share their ancient heritage.

These ruins, in particular, were only recently found in 1938 by a logger. The ruins were covered by the jungle and are now under the Belize Institute of Archeology. Caracol means snail in Spanish, but its actual Mayan name is Oxhuitza, or the “Place of Three Hills”.

It is estimated that at least one hundred and forty thousand Mayans lived in the Caracol area at one time, which is believed to be the largest archeological zone in Belize. The site dates back to around 1000 – 800 B.C., much earlier than what was initially believed by Belizean archeologists. (1)

The ruins are home to howler monkeys; they surround the ruins in the trees but make the most frightening noise I have ever heard: they sound much more like lions than little monkeys! A testament to this is that though they are so tiny; their frightening voices keep predators away. They were also throwing down the fruits from the trees; and I am not sure if they thought it was entertaining, but it was funny to us at least! Check out their scary voice boxes here: Howler Monkeys

After our tour, we stopped by a local BBQ restaurant in the jungle and had authentic pibil. If you have never had pibil, you are missing out! It is a Yucatan-style BBQ cooked for hours in banana leaves and eaten over rice- absolutely delicious. Afterwards we returned to our lodge for another watermelon martini to discuss our day’s adventure with the Gaia Lodge staff.

Day 4 – Canoeing into a Cave

Our last adventure before our jungle visit ended was to canoe down the Macal River and into a dark cave with our guide. Leading up to this point, it really did feel like each day we were living the Indiana Jones dream and upping the ante every morning- this was a real-life adventure. Sticking to the script of increasing the adventure-meter, this last day took the cake. This was an adventure like no other!

As we made our way into the cave, it was pitch black. No fancy lights are set up by anyone; it was just us, our little canoe, and our trusty flashlight as we floated deeper into the blackness. A few times, the ceiling came so low that we had to duck or even LAY DOWN in the canoe to pass by, and that is when I realized there was no way I could actually be Indiana Jones’s sidekick. I wouldn’t say I am claustrophobic, but my mind apparently begins to go crazy when caves get really low like that and you are sliding between a cave ceiling and inky-black waters.

Gliding along, we passed by a ledge higher up on the wall as the ceiling raised up for a short time. Our guide maneuvered his flashlight to show ancient clay pots, wall drawings, and even skeletons that had remained completely un-disturbed for generations: Mayan people entombed within the watery cave.

We continued deeper and the ceiling lowered once again, and our guide explained that nothing except for bats lived in the caves, until we noticed something white on the cave wall. My husband shouted, “What is that?” Our guide shined the light on it, and we beheld a giant white cave spider. It was white as a sheet of paper, with extremely long, thin legs.

Remember when I told you we were a bit close to the cave ceiling? Well, we were also a little too close to this giant white spider on the cave wall. Our guide, who grew up in the area, said he had never seen it before and truthfully didn’t know what it was. I feared that this giant white spider was about to jump on us, and then we would all be dumped out of the canoe deep in this cave (because I would rather have leapt into a bottomless stygian abyss filled with ancient Mayan skeletons than share a canoe with it).

Giant white spiders? No thanks. With a noble discovery of a new species under our belt we bravely turned our tail and fled from the cave. Really, it was the height of our adventure and something we will talk about for the rest of our lives.

Since it was our last night, the Gaia Lodge staff suggested visiting Francis Ford Coppola’s (The famous director of the “Godfather” trilogy) Blancaneaux Lodge jungle resort for dinner. This resort is absolutely stunning, and they were one of the first lodges at the time to have their own organic garden, incorporating it into their restaurant menu. It is one of the most romantic places I have been to, and I recommend staying here if you plan to visit Belize.

And Now For your History DEEP DIVE!

Belize once flourished with the Mayan people, but the Mayan population began to decline throughout the region even before the arrival of the Spanish and Europeans in the 16th Century. The Spanish tried to convert the remaining Mayans to Christianity but were unsuccessful. (2) Today, the remaining Mayan culture is still very much alive in the local communities. The Mayan people are proud of their heritage; some even still speak Mayan.

As we were visiting the town of San Ignacio we stumbled upon a farmers market run by a large group of Mennonites. They were selling meat, organic fruits and vegetables, and dairy products in the middle of the jungle in Belize. I was intrigued; the original Mennonites who arrived in Belize in 1958 were of Dutch, Russian, and Prussian descent.

They had migrated from Mexico because the Mexican government wanted the Mennonite people to be part of the social security program. The Mennonite community is very secluded and has often been exempted from military service. Still, unfortunately for them, their migration was due to changing governments requiring military service and being registered in their systems. (3)

In 1957, the Mennonite Community negotiated with the British Honduras (Now known as Belize) Government to bring agriculture to the local communities in exchange for religious freedom and military service exemption. British Honduras heavily relied upon imports for agriculture, which was a win-win negotiation for both parties.

Their arrival in 1958 was one of seeking freedom from the constraints of Governments that they felt did not protect their religious freedoms. Fast forward all these years, and they have become Belize’s leading producers by 85% for the country in milk, cheese, and other dairy products. In 1966, Pennsylvania and Arkansas Mennonites also sought to come to Belize due to the pressures of the Vietnam War. (4)

The Mennonites are given protection by the Belizean government, and they, in return, have a booming agricultural community that provides meats, fruits, vegetables, and dairy to the local communities.

Advice I wish I had known on my trip…

I could see myself retiring in this beautiful country. What’s not to love? I felt safe both in Ambergris Caye and throughout our travels through the mainland. I would highly recommend when planning a vacation like this traveling to the Jungle first and then finish in Ambergris Caye, because what we ended up doing is extending our trip by a few more days to fly back to Ambergris Caye.

So start with the jungle, and end with the beach. Gaia Riverlodge requires children to be over ten years old, but another really great recommendation is Cha Cha Creek, which is family friendly and has tons of great reviews as well. Check out Expedia.com for the best rates. One thing I will guarantee is that if you follow my advice you will absolutely have one of the most adventure-filled vacations yet.

Recommended Tours and Resorts

Sources

(1). https://www.themayanruinswebsite.com/caracol.html

(2). https://www.britannica.com/place/Belize/The-arts

(3). https://www.belizehub.com/belize-mennonites/

(4). https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1099&context=amishstudies

The Best Belize Travel Itinerary Part 1- Ambergris Caye

Adventure to Belize Here We Come

Growing up, Indiana Jones was one of my favorite series to watch over and over. I wanted to be in Indy’s posse, traveling the world, fighting off villains and finding historical treasures in caves. As that was hollywood magic and the lives of archeologists are rarely as exciting, I instead joined the Air Force and had a fascinating career traveling the world. It was a little less dangerous than Indy, but nonetheless, I made my adventure.

One of the pilots I worked with had gotten married in Ambergris Caye (San Pedro), Belize, and my fiancé Shawn wanted to go to Belize more than anywhere else on the planet (he says it was like the main character’s fixation with Figi in “The Truman Show”). So, we decided to elope to Ambergris Caye.

Even funnier- it turned out that as soon as we figured out we would get married in Belize, our friends (who were also our co-workers) all booked their trips to Belize with us in the office that very week. So our elopement to Belize went from just us two to instead include our parents, my aunt and uncle, and our amazing group of friends. I had my Indy posse at last, and we were ready to head to Belize!

The wedding was all set; we would get married in Ambergris Caye with our family and friends and then spend some time on the mainland in Belize in the jungle for the remainder of our honeymoon. I spent hours searching for the perfect properties on E xpedia.com, which has always been my go-to for travel deals and mainly for sorting through reviews to find the best hotels.

The best decision was to stay at the Matachica Resort and Spa to have our wedding on the beach and then we took a sunset catamaran cruise for our reception/dinner with Seaduced by Belize, which by the way was absolutely amazing/perfect for many reasons.

The Matachica Resort has the most amazing restaurant called Mambos. I could say that the whole island has the most amazing food, but I will instead distill it all down to just my favorites. Almost everyone on the island makes their own fresh flour tortillas- and they are just perfect: they compliment almost everything else fantastic that they serve up.

I ate huevos rancheros every morning with these same freshly made flour tortillas while staying at Matachica because it was just such a delicious combination. I dream of those huevos rancheros to this day! The conch ceviche is also just out of this world- my now husband thinks it may have set the bar too high for ceviche, as the rest he’s had never seems to measure up.

The Beauty of Ambergris Caye

I cannot recommend highly enough our photographer: Jose Luis Zapata. He was absolutely amazing and earns a full five-stars when it comes to any type of photos you may want to get while on the island or in Belize.

**Wedding at Matachica Resort and Spa and catamaran reception at sunset**

Ambergris is an island like no other; its pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and unique blend of Caribbean and Latin American cultures make it a truly enchanting destination for any traveler. You can fly into Phillip Goldson International Airport in Belize City and reserve a flight on Tropic Air to get to Ambergris Caye (San Pedro).

We also flew Maya Airlines into the jungle for the second part of our honeymoon, as it’s the regional aircraft that flies all over Belize. It is a “puddle jumper” type of airlift service, so you are in for an adventure. As soon as you land in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye you’ll want to rent a golf cart.

Yes, you read correctly there- do not pass go or collect $200, just get a golf cart 100%. The roads in San Pedro are made with dirt and driving the golf cart around the island is so much fun. I would highly recommend booking your golf cart at Viator.com, as they are always reliable and have great prices.

And Now For your History DEEP DIVE!

Belize, also known as British Honduras until 1973, was the last British colony on the American mainland. Its prolonged path to independence was marked by a unique international campaign. There are two possibilities of where the name Belize is believed to come from.

The Spanish Pronunciation of Scottish buccaneer Peter Wallace who is believed to have begun a settlement in the Belize River or the Mayan word belix (“muddy water”) or belikin (“land facing the sea”). (1)

Ambergris Caye is the largest of two hundred islands, it’s 25 miles long, and initially inhabited by Mayan people who used it as a fishing village dating from 200 AD. Then, it was eventually converted into a trading center. Around 800 AD, the Mayan civilization began to leave their cities for various reasons, such as lack of water, food, diseases, and poor soil.

It wasn’t until 1508 that the first Europeans would visit the island, and they found the Mayans still on the island in a declining state. At one point, Cacao was a major export of Belize; and Ambergris Caye was used as a trade route to export this extraordinary plant. The island was also abundant in seafood for trade, for obvious reasons.

In the early 1600s British pirates would use Ambergris as a safe haven: a hideaway for their treasures until they could transport them to the mainland. These early pirates are said to have given the island its name. They chose this beautiful stretch of land as a base of pirating operations, but it seems that pirating couldn’t always pay the bills.

Whale Vomit is Worth a Fortune

They apparently needed a side-hustle for times when pirating prospects were scant, so they moonlighted as whalers. Additionally, as currents here seemed to favor the delivery of floating whale excretions, they collected whale vomit (called ambergris) that would wash up to the shore of the island.

The oil from this ambergris was sent to Europe where it was highly valued for its use in making perfumes. Would you be surprised to learn that luxurious perfumes are still made from ambergris to this day? Apparently, people love the smell of whale vomit…

After the decline of the Mayan civilization, the area was colonized by the Spanish who later ceded control to the British in the 17th century. This threefold change in leadership laid the groundwork for the unique blend of cultures and languages that define Belize today.

In 1981, Belize gained independence from the British but chose to keep its connection to the United Kingdom as part of the Commonwealth. The country continues to preserve its natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a fascinating destination for travelers and historians alike. (2)

Ready for a Recap on where you should Stay and Eat on San Pedro?

Remember to immerse yourself in the local culture and savor the flavors of San Pedro during your stay!

Hotel Recommendations:

Matachica Resort and Spa – Secluded, romantic, quiet, and gorgeous.
Coco Beach Resort (they serve up the best Bloody Mary’s I have ever had in their swim up bar).

Restaurant Recommendations:

Mambo’s at the Matachica Resort and Spa – My absolute favorite
Elvis Kitchen – Delicious, with a great atmosphere.
Anglers Seafood House – We had our wedding party eat here the night before the wedding and the food was fantastic too.
Palapa Bar and Grill – This place has the most amazing BBQ, but wait it gets better: The bar is on stilts, positioned at the end of a dock it towers high over turquoise blue water. It has tubes tied to the pilings to float on in the ocean below while you drink your cocktails or beer (which they will use ropes to lower down to you in buckets!) We spent the whole day floating over stingrays and pulling the rope to send down more beers (just make sure you are WELL sun-screened before you hop in that tube!)

Here is another blogger who gives recommendations to his ten favorite restaurants in San Pedro. https://www.belizeadventure.ca/san-pedro-best-restaurants/

Activity Recommendations:

Be sure to visit Caye Cauker: a nearby island with lots of fun shopping, food, and drinks for the day – Here is an excellent day trip
Make sure you rent a golf cart the whole time you are there – trust me this may be one of the highlights of your trip. Golf Cart Rental in San Pedro
My favorite thing to do is hang out on the tubes at the Palapa Bar and Grill mentioned above. I have never done anything like it. Palapa Bar and Grill – Float in the clear blue Caribbean and pull the rope to send down drinks – Palapa Bar and Grill
Book a private catamaran sail with Seaduced by Belize

Ambergris Caye is truly a one of a kind experience and I highly recommend it. The second part of our honeymoon took place at the Gaia Riverlodge in the Pine Reserve Forrest near the San Ignacio area. I will cover the jungle portion of our Belize adventure in The Best Travel Itinerary Part 2 – The Jungle, so stay tuned for the next blog.

Sources

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Escape to the Historical Omni Homestead, Hot Springs, VA

Cruising Norway: A Picture-Perfect Destination for Nature Enthusiasts

Immerse Yourself in the Serenity of Norway’s Lofoten Islands

Santorini Travel Tips: Unveiling the Charm of the Greek Island

An Adventure to Komodo National Park – Dragons and Pink Sand Beaches

Exploring Petra: An Ancient City of Mesmerizing Beauty

Arusha, Tanzania

Mount Meru Hotel – Arusha

Luxury Tent Accommodations

Lake Manyara National Park

Was the Safari Worth It?

Mount Kilimanjaro

Tanzanites!

And Now for your History Deep Dive…

Experience the Magic of Maine

Starting our Journey at Bar Harbor on Mt Desert Island

Cadillac Mountain

Jordan Pond House

Best Place to Get Lobster Rolls

Heading South Down the Coast

Camden

Port Clyde and the Marshall Point Lighthouse

Where to Stay

And Now for a History Deep Dive….

Royal Patents

Land and Liberty for Revolutionary Veterans

Experience the Essence of Bali: Cultural Immersion and Adventure

…What went wrong?

Bali Rice Fields

Luwak Coffee

Mason Elephant Park & Lodge

Visiting a Luxury Spa

Where to Stay in Bali

And now for your History Deep Dive….

Abraham Lincoln Landmarks

Lincoln’s Boyhood Home in Kentucky

Lincoln Family Home in Springfield, Illinois

Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois

The Lincoln Tomb in Springfield, IL

The Lincoln’s Stay in the Willard Hotel, Washington DC

The Old Soldiers Home – Lincoln’s Cottage, Washington DC

Ford Theater and the Peterson House

Abraham Lincoln Memorial

Where Exactly is Mackinac Island?

19th Century Feel

Somewhere in Time

The Grand Hotel

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

The History of the Island

What to Do on the Island

Moorea, French Polynesia

5 Reasons to Stay in Moorea instead of Bora Bora for your Tahitian Vacation

1. Significant Cost Savings

2. Intra-Island Travel

Resort Hopping

3. Mount Rotui and the Primitive Island

4. The Local Restaurants

5. More Adventurous Activities

And Now for Another History Deep Dive…

Captain Cook’s Bay

Are you ready to book your trip?

The Best Day in Tuscany

Beautiful Florence

Where to stay?

Bicycling through the Best Day in Tuscany!

Some famous Machiavelli quotes:

The Pasta, Olive Oil and Chianti Wine

And Now for a History Deep Dive!

The Etruscans

The Medici Banking Family

The fall of the Medici Bank

Ready to Book your Trip to Tuscany?

The First Visit to Paris

Slightly Disappointed

Montmartre

Paris Photoshoot

Basilica of Sacré Coeur

Bicycling around the Eiffel Tower

Crepes

Macarons