C & Rs Blog on RealTravel

Carbondale journal: Camping in the Rockies...for real this time!

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 19:38:34 GMT

Describing our weekend, all I needed to say to our friends was – “we went camping in the rocky mountains…” and there…just like that they had framed “the” picture in their minds, as if I special-ordered it for them!

Clear blue skies interspersed with powder-puff clouds, monolithic towering granite structures piercing through the painted canvas, evergreens and fields of Aspen lacing the slopes, lush green meadows and wild flowers lining the valleys in between highlighting the contrast in shapes, color and contours, fresh snowmelt laden waterfalls for a road-side diversion, and the mighty ...

Carbondale journal: The First DETOUR - Mt. Evans

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:13:42 GMT

The first DETOUR…

Located about 3.5 hours from the city of Denver, it is not exactly close to the suburbs…however the drive comes packaged with a truly unique experience that blogs are written about! So, who’s complaining? Not me! Plus, there are several must-have detours and attractions along the way to keep your appetite for outdoors and nature going.

One such detour was the Mt. Evans Scenic Byway also known as the Road-into-the-sky-drive. No points for guessing why it is called so. In just 28 miles, this beautifully paved byway climbs more than 7,000 feet to reach an altitude of ...

United States journal: Camping in the Rockies

Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:09:42 GMT

“Camping in the Rockies”….just the phrase has a ring to it…that perks your curiosity and paints a vivid picture in your mind about a far-away gorgeous place untouched by nature, pristine and wild in its beauty and utterly refreshing in its atmosphere.

Bogan Flats campgrounds in Carbondale, Colorado did live up to that utopian-like image and our weekend camping trip was enough reason for me wanting to go back again!

Bryce Canyon National Park journal: Bryce has many different 'POINTS' of view

Mon, 05 May 2008 19:56:25 GMT

THE DREAM....

It must have been twilight ...or sometime very early by my standards, I awoke to what felt like a very happening dream...the first thought that crossed my mind, an intensely strong pull to visit Inspiration point once more!

Was I crazy...was I dreaming....perhaps both and even more! My husband, as much perplexed as I, had this weird expression at 4:25am...he says "Darling...You were sleep talking..." WHAT??? I never sleep talk...so I was very curious and wanted to hear more. He went on to say "...you kept repeating the words, Inspiration Point, over and over ...

Bryce Canyon National Park journal: Hoodoos-Grottos-Narrows....don't worry, its all English!

Sun, 04 May 2008 10:20:15 GMT

So with horseshoe shaped amphitheaters that one can get lost within...to myriad colors and unique rock formations that demand your awe...from breathtaking view points named aptly as Sunrise, Sunset and my very favorite - Inspiration Point...to elevations that span a range of 3000 feet... Bryce offers an unparalleled evocative landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see, and goes beyond your every single imagination. Taking all this beauty in...was the biggest challenge...alas we had just a pair of eyes to do it with!

What can I write here that could come close to what I ...

Bryce Canyon National Park journal: Feel yourself transform at BRYCE CANYON national park

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:28:37 GMT

After experiencing one of the oldest national parks (Zion Canyon), if you even momentarily think, you've seen them all...really, stop and think again. What lay ahead on our mini-grand circle road trip was nothing short of the most spectacular natural formations carved over centuries of time. At Bryce Canyon, you are most definitely transformed both in your thinking and in your being.

Even though, each park offers a completely different perspective, something about BRYCE touches you like none other...and you leave the park a changed person. Ok! I admit, I am a bit biased to this ...

Zion National Park journal: Big and Tall - Zion National Park

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 12:42:54 GMT

Coming off of a high, after visiting coral pink sand dunes, the day had only just begun…it was still early…and Zion Canyon National Park beckoned as it was our next stop on our mini-grand-circle tour. A little over an hour’s drive (from Coral Pink Sand Dunes State park) located around the town of Springdale, is the majestic towering canyon formations that are a trademark signature of Zion.

The entire park spans a mammoth geographical area, which is why there are multiple entrances to it. The most common ones being on the Zion-Mount Carmel highway, coming from the east or the south.

Zion National Park journal: Zion Canyon Scenic drive cuts through the heart of the park

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 12:26:14 GMT

One of the most scenic roads inside the park is the Zion Canyon scenic drive. Wonder why they named it that!! There are many view points and vistas located on and near this drive, which makes this a very comfortable drive/hike activity. After some much needed R & R, we decided to explore more of the park, and set out towards, what we believed to be the Court of the Patriarchs on the right of the road!

There we were mighty proud of ourselves, posing in front of, taking pictures from different angles, admiring the sheer size and beauty of these magnificent rock giants, watching several ...

Kanab journal: Pink is my pick for the day...Coral Pink to be precise!

Sat, 23 Feb 2008 10:52:36 GMT

At day break, as we left the town of Page, we found ourselves once again crossing state lines, this time from Arizona into Utah (no time zone change here). As we watched the early morning light wash the dark sky, all we could reminisce about was, what an experience the day before had been. Truly, Antelope Canyon was a visual treat.

On day 3 we were headed west on Highway 89 towards the city of Kanab, UT marveling the expansive Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument that stretched out to our north and northeast. Even though the grand circle is mostly made up of National Parks and ...

Williams journal: Grand Canyon IMAX movie

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:11:55 GMT

Located only a mile south from the south rim entrance of the Grand Canyon, the IMAX theatre is good choice to relax and take in an enjoyable yet informative experience of the majestic canyon on a 7-storied giant screen. The 35 minute presentation feature called "Grand Canyon IMAX movie" includes the canyon's history, expeditions, explorations of this fantastic and world renowned natural wonder. Especially if you are visiting in the winter off season (as we did)....this is a perfect way to rest your tired feet and to end your day after sun down.

Here is a link for more information : ...

Williams journal: I have arrived - I am here - Its the Grand Canyon!

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 16:11:55 GMT

After reading, researching and planning for more than 6 months...you get to a point, when waiting just doesn't work for you. You've heard about it from others, seen documentaries on the travel channel, and always wondered what it would be like, if you were there.

I now believe this to be the quintessential road trip that gave birth to the phrase "are we there yet?!" And after what feels like forever, you are moments away from realizing that very thought; steps away from experiencing life in all together a different way.

That first glimpse; the rush of adrenalin; the expansive view ...

Page journal: Glen Canyon Dam in Page, Arizona

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 20:10:46 GMT

Towering to an impressive height of over 700 ft from below ground, the Glen Canyon dam straddles the Arizona/Utah border and is located 90 miles upstream from the Grand Canyon. It was built in 1956 to tame the all-mighty and effervescent Colorado river and to provide an oasis to the greater american southwest.

In sheer numbers alone, this mammoth structure of concrete and steel took more than 10 years to build, used more than 4 million cubic tonnes of concrete (that is a lot!), is over 1500 ft in length and generates power to light more than 30 million homes! If that isn't impressive, ...

Page journal: Antelope Canyon

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 20:49:50 GMT

My journal entry titled Galloping herds of Antelopes...gives a detailed narrative of this wonderous place. Its my number 1 on a top ten list. Here are some websites that will help you plan your trip.

www.antelopecanyon.com www.antelopeslotcanyon .com www.jeeptour.com www.navajotours.com I hope you do get to enjoy it as much if not more than myself.

Page journal: Galloping herds of Antelopes...give it its fabled name - Antelope Canyon

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 20:32:38 GMT

Continuing east on Hwy 64 and then north on US 89, little did we think, that our next destination would leave such a lasting impression on us, for a lesser known quaint town of Page in Arizona became the most talked about highlight of our entire journey.

About two and half hours by road from the east rim of Grand Canyon, the trip to Page, AZ was a visual delight throughout. Running almost parallel to the road, the soaring vermillion cliffs kept us company and offered constantly changing kaleidoscopic views from all angles of the car windows.

After grabbing a quick bite at the heart ...

Grand Canyon Village journal: the village..the sun..and the sky

Mon, 18 Feb 2008 18:43:57 GMT

the village

Yes, they call it the Grand Canyon village ...although considering the size and expanse of the canyon, calling this place a "village" might seem ironical...but it does have a very characteristic charm complete with cozy lodging, comfort food and homely entertainment. There are plenty of options for all ages to explore the village....you could spend a week...and still not have seen it all. To add to its uniqueness, the village also offers seasonal plays at the amphitheater, nature programs, beautiful wildlife and panoramic vistas all around.

Most people visiting the ...

Las Vegas journal: Start and finish point...Las Vegas

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:41:57 GMT

So our journey commenced in Vegas...there are a couple of 'fly-in' points to start the grand circle tour (Vegas, Flagstaff). As the name suggests, its a circle...and so befitting that we begin and end where we began! Vegas had the best and most economical flight options coupled with great rental car rates as well. Plus the ulterior motive was to end our trip in colorful, lively and ever-transforming mecca of lights - Las Vegas. And by the way...the views from the sky while approaching Vegas, were nothing shy of spectacular. And we couldn't wait to be on the ground...and on the road.

Ther ...

Hoover Dam journal: First pit stop - "Hoover Dam"

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:38:59 GMT

Only about 35miles south east of Las Vegas, enroute to Grand Canyon on US-93 stands a monolithic icon that represents strength, grandeur and a haven for what used to be harsh barren land not so long ago.

The Hoover Dam is more than just an impressive sight. It is an engineering marvel to be reckoned with. It beckons travelers transiting... to stop, step out of their vehicles and experience a magnificent concrete structure that literally transformed the desert into an oasis of flourishing commerce.

Considered the second highest dam in the United States, it is the reason why Lake ...

Stockton Island, Apostle Islands journal: Three day Itinerary to Stockton Island

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 21:14:44 GMT

Taking a well deserved (or not) break for 3 days is very rewarding, fun and easy to do. Here is a sample itinerary for Stockton Island that can help you plan your trip when nature beckons you…or whenever you feel inspired after watching too much “survivor” on tv!

DAY 1 – Get me to Bayfield on time!!

Yes – unless you have your own private boat (which we didn’t)…you need to get to the loading dock in time before the ferry leaves. There is only one ferry that leaves for Stockton Island at 1pm everyday. You are expected to load all your belongings, back-packs etc onto the boat, and ...

Bayfield journal: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 20:58:27 GMT

When someone says, “…you cannot pretend to live on an island” …I say YES YOU CAN…and not only pretence, you actually can!

A trip to Apostle Islands in Northern Wisconsin….felt like a place so remote, so removed from inhabitance and created for the ultimate R & R (rest and relaxation) experience!

Bayfield journal: Launch Pad to Apostle Islands - Bayfield, Wisconsin

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 15:11:07 GMT

The visitor center for the Apostle Island National Lakeshore is located in Bayfield, WI – a small fishing village that is charming, delightful and friendly. Only an hour’s ferry ride across from the Victorian town of Bayfield, WI – the 21 islands of Apostle National Lakeshore, form one of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in nature.

It is here that all is forgotten, and you live entirely in the moment absorbing the beauty that is the lake, the soft sandy beaches, the wooded forests, the big blue sky and the peace and quiet that is so rationed anywhere else in the cities.

The ...

Napa journal: Rutherford Hill Winery

Wed, 09 May 2007 15:20:46 GMT

With nearly 300 large and small wineries to choose from, selecting one to tour and taste wasn't easy. What was interesting for us certainly may not be on the priority list for some one else. But if you really wanted to experience the wine-making process, the tasting as well as the most extensive cave system for cooling and ageing...then I think Rutherford Hill is your best bet.

As the name suggests, it is located on a hill, and commands spectacular views of the valley.The whole place has such an "italian" look and feel (and I have never visited Italy...but want to now). They run hour ...

Napa journal: Wine country for Non-Connoisseurs

Wed, 09 May 2007 14:40:45 GMT

Much against popular belief, Wine country is Northern California...is bubbling with lots of things, other than just wine.

I mean the cliche` thing to do would be to drive...or as the case may be, be driven to visit one winery after another, and to sip and taste one wine after another. And this would make perfect sense to someone who enjoys and appreciates good wine.

For us, we belong to the category...that is the title of this article. So, I have to say, Wine and Vineyards are so much more than just to taste and get drunk (yes...people do have agendas behind such a trip)....they ...

Napa journal: Wine Tasting and Cave Tour

Wed, 09 May 2007 14:19:11 GMT

We chose a speciality winery tour, and it was wonderful. Would definitely recommend it. See article for more details about the tour.

San Francisco journal: Flying Stand By - its worth it!

Wed, 09 May 2007 14:05:08 GMT

I might have heard this in passing, from friends and co-travelers but never really pursued the option further, until it almost became a necessity (or not, depends on how you see it).

Flying Standby...well lets just say, we weren't "regulars" if you catch my drift. Infact, much less, we had never exercised that option before. For some of you who are constant business travelers, this might be the norm. To us, it was a sweet deal that made total sense to go for.

Anyways, in short, we were lucky to get seats on an earlier flight to SFO...and because we were flying across 3 time-zones, ...

British Columbia journal: Have you seen an Emerald of this size?!

Wed, 02 May 2007 14:39:37 GMT

We have! And its not the kind that you would wear on your finger or around your neck, but one that you would carry with you always... in your heart and mind.

It would only seem fit and appropriate to compare the brilliance of the lakes in the region to the most sparkling of jewels known to man... like the dazzling blue of the sapphires, or the purity of the pearl...the clarity of the diamond and the vivid intensity of the EMERALD. Yes! I am talking about EMERALD lake located beneath Yoho National Park's towering mountains in British Columbia.

Hardly 10 km past the town of Field in ...

Victoria journal: Victoria - Royally British, charmingly English.

Sun, 05 Nov 2006 16:27:26 GMT

Victoria's quaint laid back atmosphere, old english charm and beauty, and its quieter pace of life, felt almost welcome and refreshing, after being on the road for nearly 8 days with a all-in-one kind of an itinerary!

Victoria is just a short ferry ride away be it either from Seattle on the US side or from its counter part city Vancouver on the Canadian side. And they have very convinient and comfortable double decker buses waiting at the terminal to take visitors into the main harbor area of this picturesque town! BC Transit Bus # 70 will get you all the way there, besides what is ...

Vancouver journal: Vancouver's "rich" suburb

Thu, 19 Oct 2006 10:43:02 GMT

Vancouver does stand up to its reputation of being diverse, culturally rich and traditionally varied, and one of its lesser known testimonials to that effect is the brilliant Buddhist temple neatly tucked in along Stevenson Highway. Nestled in Richmond's opulent suburb, this tranquil retreat is as eye-captivating, as it is serene and peaceful.

The temple architecture makes it stand out amongst its surburbial surroundings. The classic pagoda shape and style dramatized with carvings of saints and floral patterns portray Chinese influence. The property itself is carefully planned to include ...

Vancouver journal: Vancouver – on a shoe string!

Sun, 03 Sep 2006 20:33:50 GMT

There are places where prices matter…but not necessarily here. Vancouver has tons to offer without ripping your wallets. Its all up to you however, to experience Vancouver on a shoe string!

Picture perfect weather, culturally rich and vibrant, supporting diverse communities, and always finding itself on the cutting edge of innovation and advancement, Vancouver prides itself in offering the very best to its residents and tourists! Yes, tourism is a big part of its economy.

But you can enjoy and immerse deep enough into its culture without financially getting broke! Or lets say, even ...

Vancouver journal: Eclectic Urban - Vancouver

Sun, 03 Sep 2006 19:06:05 GMT

As mentioned in the very first entry in this journal – Head Start, we came to realize that our 10 day journey through Western Canada was distinctly broken into 2 sections; we had already been through the heart of the Canadian Rockies and needless to say were transformed by the whole experience.

The unforgettable train journey almost was perfectly timed and built into the itinerary with the purpose of slowing down the pace, to admire nature at its very best. It gave us much needed time to reflect, re-cooperate and rejuvenate ourselves for what lay ahead.

The rugged mountainous ...

Vancouver journal: Neat, safe and centrally located - great value for money!

Sun, 03 Sep 2006 19:04:03 GMT

After reading some reviews and researching about lodging options in Downtown Vancouver, the YWCA was our obvious choice.

Located in the heart of downtown, very close to the train/bus station, this hotel is also in close proximity to the sky train station. The hotel itself offers comfortable, clean private rooms...where you are guaranteed a good night's sleep.

I would highly recommend staying at the Y...its great value for money, and the friendly staff, are always clued in with whats good and where!

Jasper National Park journal: What is Canada's largest and most northerly national park?

Sun, 03 Sep 2006 18:53:35 GMT

When it’s much quieter, peaceful, less traveled and matched equally in its natural splendor as its popular neighbor, why wouldn’t you visit this place instead?

JASPER is as much an entrance gate to the Canadian Parks as its popular counterpart Banff. But with Jasper, you don’t have to deal with the crowds, the tourists, and the commercialism that one would often come across in Banff, especially at peak times.

This attractive alternative is not only pleasing, it is as much rewarding as any other. As an added bonus, Jasper National Park is Canada’s largest and most northerly located ...

Jasper National Park journal: Real Romance in the Rockies...

Sun, 03 Sep 2006 14:56:15 GMT

Those of you who are thinking, train journeys are nice to hear and read about, but outrageously expensive for the average traveler…think again! By the time you are done reading this, it wouldn’t surprise me, if you start hunting for dates and times to plan your romantic getaway on this ultimate train travel with that special someone.

And if you do so, this will become a memory of a lifetime, year marked with pictures, stories and memorabilia of this fascinating and truly remarkable journey that comes naturally in-built with romance and pure magic!

Traveling by train amidst the ...

Jasper National Park journal: Mix of the old with the new...centrally located, best value for money!

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 17:37:28 GMT

The Athabasca hotel in located centrally in the town of Jasper, close to all the stores, food places and even the VIA rail train station.

It offers comfortable and private rooms with shared baths. It is good value for the money spent. If you are going to spend most of your time outdoors, this hotel is ideal...as it is within drivable distance to all the important attractions around town.

Jasper National Park journal: A casual evening with a top-rated view!

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 17:29:06 GMT

Earls Jasper, located in the heart of town offers a menu with a view! The food is delicious and the location - spectacular. The rugged mountains make for a beautiful backdrop if you are seated out on the patio.

They do create a fun, relaxing casual atmosphere with a simple but tasteful menu. Don't hesitate to try out their asian cusine, it is well worth it.

The only drawback to this enticing place, is the long wait times. Reservations are a must, and arrive early...especially if you want that much coveted outdoor patio table!!

Banff journal: Climb every mountain...

Sat, 02 Sep 2006 09:16:11 GMT

Right off the bat, I want to say, we are novices at hiking/trekking/mountain climbing...however you want to call it! And after spending a few precious months re-searching the canadian rockies, it was decided that not hiking the mountains here, would be like being in India and not visiting the TAJ !!

That being said, Sulphur Mountain in Banff Townsite stood testimony to our debut hike! A well-defined and well-maintained 5.3km trail takes you all way from the Gondola parking lot down below to the summit of the mountain offering views un-paralleled along the way!

Yes - there is a ...

Banff journal: Comfortable, very convinient, friendly staff.

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 13:20:56 GMT

The Banff Alpine Centre is a Superior-rated hostel and was voted by backpackers to be in the 'Top 10' list of 5,000 hostels worldwide!

It offers a mix of two-, four-, and six-bed rooms, along with the option of private rooms, if you catch the early bird specials!! This hostel is the most pleasant budget lodging in Banff. Since we spent 80% of our day outdoors, we didn't have an opportunity to avail some of the excellent features that the hostel offers. Facilities include a recreation room, kitchen, laundry, and lounge with fireplace. Meals are available at the Cougar Pete's Kitchen and ...

Banff journal: Located right in the hostel premises, offers a very good hearty breakfast!

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 13:20:56 GMT

The Cougar Pete's Kitchen is very conveniently located in the Hostel premises, where we were staying - Banff Alpine hostel. It opens early in the morning, and offers a tastefully simple menu. The service is friendly, though that early in the morning, they have just one staff member catering to everyone's need. So, take your time enjoying the scenery around this place while you eat.

They also have a spacious deck area with outside seating, if you really want to indulge in nature. Overall, I would recommend this to any and everyone.

Banff journal: With mountains, rivers and valleys all around, you can indulge in any sport or activity. Caters to all tastes and preferences.

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 13:20:56 GMT

Banff journal: World's largest Mirrors...!

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 13:20:56 GMT

Isn't the title interesting?? Once you read this and see the photos attached, you will know exactly why!

Our first day was spent exploring downtown Banff, and sights in and around the townsite...which in itself has numerous attractions to offer. There are so many scenic drives, lakes and valleys, that one gets easily confused with all the great choices.

We went driving to and around Lake "Minnewanka" after we learnt how to say it!!! It was a little tongue twister, but once we got it down, it actually felt good saying it! It was late evening, and that is what is nice about this ...

Jasper National Park journal: Riding the Great Continental Divide - Icefield Parkway!

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 13:18:00 GMT

A Continental Divide (as researched by google) is defined as a line of elevated terrain which forms a border between two watersheds such that water falling on one side of the line eventually travels to one ocean or body of water, and water on the other side travels to another, generally on the opposite side of the continent.

All that information makes for a good geography lesson,(no Mom, I am not downplaying geography lessons!! I know as a teacher you are very passionate about the subject) but what you experience when you are actually riding this diverse mountain landscape, is something ...

Icefield Parkway journal: THE TOP TEN LIST!!

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 13:10:24 GMT

Here is our TOP TEN list of some of the large and popular attractions on the Icefield Parkway where the expression tourist-trap literally means 'trapped-by-bus loads of-tourists'!! The order of 'must-sees' below is based on a drive originating from Lake Louise and ending at Jasper.

1.Hector Lake : It is the largest natural lake in Banff National Park, most of the lakes in the area have exceptional color and clarity because of the rock minerals suspended in water.

2.Crowfoot Glacier : Named so because in the early 1900s it had three toes resembling the foot of a crow, however later ...

Calgary journal: Cowboy Country...

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 11:21:40 GMT

The flight from Minneapolis to Calgary is a very comfortable 2.5 hour trip. And for us, the excitement was enough to make time fly. Opting for the Window seat, on this flight, was a good choice, as it gave us a glimpse of the grandeur that we were about to embark on! We couldn’t wait to get going. The reason why this journal entry is titled ‘Cowboy Country’ is because every year in July, Calgary is host to one of the largest influx of all things ‘country’…its called the Calgary Stampede. This is “the” event in Calgary, and is year marked with hotel rooms being booked sometimes 6 months to a ...

Minneapolis journal: Head Start...

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 11:21:18 GMT

What I have discovered (just from reading) is that any amount of time spent in the majestic Canadian Rockies wouldn't and couldn't do it complete justice. But not visiting it at all would be a far greater regret!

We stumbled upon the fact that our complete vacation could clearly be broken down into 2 sections – one, absorbing the spirit of nature, and two, becoming aware of the urban culture and civilization!! The first five days of our trip would be spent traversing along the continental divide through 4 major national parks including Canada’s largest and oldest. The remainder of our ...

Canada journal: O! Canada! O! Canada!

Sun, 27 Aug 2006 11:21:18 GMT

Short of drawing straws or pulling a number out of the hat, a cozy warm booth at the California Pizza Kitchen became witness to our triumphant moment, when we both decided on traveling to the majestic Canadian Rockies.

This was a 10-Day trip of Western Canada, including the Canadian Rockies, National Parks in Alberta and British Columbia, Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle.

Each day's stay includes several highlights that are permanently etched in our minds and remind us everyday of this glorious and god-gifted place. More detailed pictures will be posted with each entry...so continue ...

Banff National Park journal: The bow valley parkway Hwy 1A offers many attractions along the way, one of which is an easy hike at Johnston Canyon.

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 21:17:13 GMT

If you have the choice, and are traveling between Banff townsite and Lake Louise, I would suggest, traveling off the beaten path on Bow Valley Parkway Hwy 1A. This is a slower, scenic and much more vibrant road to traverse on.

Along the way, are many sights, viewpoints, and if you are lucky...you will be greeted by habitat, wild and true to the area.

One such sight along the way is Johnston Canyon - Lower and Upper falls. Compared to the scaled mountains in the region, this hike to the water falls is relatively flat and very easy on the legs. The rushing water of the creek has ...

Lake O'Hara, Alberta journal: Its a stunningly beautiful, well kept secret!!

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 21:09:48 GMT

Is this place for real or was it a faction of our imagination? How can there be a place so pure and pristine, untouched, unscathed, wild and glorious? How can the waters be this placid, yet multifaceted...this vivid, and so full of character, this inviting and at the same time so mesmerizing? Is this a dream, or does such a utopia really exist? How could nature surrounding this haven, be so rugged, alpine yet legendary?

If you can believe it, all the above was answered in superlatives, when we stepped foot onto a well kept secret amidst the Canadian Rockies. True in every sense of the ...

Banff journal: Fairmont Banff Springs - A Paradise Resort

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 21:03:05 GMT

Whats the one thing that all real-estate agents and books harp about when buying or selling property, its Location-Location -Location!

And staying true to every alphabet of the word is the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel. If you look at the photograph, you will know why I called it the Paradise Resort, for us it was all a DREAM!!

Located in the heart of the valley, surrounded by towering impressive peaks, alongside the bubbly Bow river, under the open sky - could one ever have asked for anything more? How much more perfectly could a resort be situated? It was such a sight to behold.

Lake O'Hara, Alberta journal: Situated in the heart of one of Nature's very best!

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 20:45:49 GMT

Indianapolis journal: The Children's Museum for Adults

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 08:33:29 GMT

If visiting Indianapolis, even for a day, I would highly recommend seeing the Children's Museum - you will not be disappointed.

Depending on where you live in the city, its about a 15-20 minute drive, fairly centrally located with ample free parking garages. The elevator from the parking garage directly connects to the skyway, which also acts as an entry ramp to the museum.

Taking a membership here, is very worthwhile, especially if you live here . Being that it is a Children's museum, one would automatically assume it to be kid-friendly. Worry not, it most certainly is kid and ...

Indianapolis journal: Its not Windy - its Indy!!

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 08:23:36 GMT

Not more than 3 hours drive south of the Windy city is Indy City!! A lesser known haven for big town weekenders to get away from the crowded downtowns and hurried pace of life. Its hard to imagine but the short road trip to this small town still lets you relax, recover and revitalize.

By Geography and population, Indianapolis is definitely smaller and more compact compared to big neighboring cities, but has a curb side appeal which attracts out-of-towners not just for the weekend, but to re-visit it again. It has everything that one would seek in a big city minus the hassle, noise or ...

United States journal: Indianapolis, Indiana

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 08:17:37 GMT

A weekend Trip to Indianapolis, IN revealed more about the city than we would ever have known! It definitely left us thinking, when do we make our next trip to know and learn more about what this Midwest city has to offer!

Banff journal: Going through the gates...(to heaven)

Sun, 20 Aug 2006 18:50:10 GMT

After experiencing the pleasure of driving on the Trans Canadian Hwy, for close to 3 hours (remember, we took our time admiring the sights)... we found ourselves approaching the entrance to Banff National Park.

If there was ever a description of the gates that lead to heaven, then this has got to be the inspiration behind that quote. We already liked what little we had seen so far, and come to realize later that this part of the country is blessed with the most beautiful vistas in the world.

Nature here is so pure and untouched that you want to think twice before invading its peace ...

Calgary journal: Trans Canadian Highway

Thu, 10 Aug 2006 20:32:56 GMT

Did you know that the Trans Canadian Hwy is the world's longest National Highway with a length of 7821 km (4860 miles)!! It extends between Victoria in British Columbia and St. John's in New Foundland. We were looking forward to driving on this historic road...and were welcomed by spectacular scenery and towering mountains on every turn and bend. Just a few miles outside the town of Calgary, the Trans Canadian Hwy is your best bet to get to Banff National Park. The distance is hardly 104 km(64 miles) but take your time admiring this manmade wonder.

It was a foggy morning as we set out ...

Minneapolis journal: A New Chapter...in our lives!

Wed, 09 Aug 2006 12:32:11 GMT

I am blessed to be married to a great guy who is also highly spirited and greatly adventurous. Being a 'Capricorn' might have something to do with it.Anyway, it was funny how the thought occurred to both of us almost at the same time...we both immensely enjoy traveling and we wanted to plan that into our lives...instead of being the occasional weekend vacationer. Having lived on one end of the globe for most of my life, and now on another...traveling wasn't something foreign, in fact being raised in a military family might have played heavily into this outward desire to see more of the ...