Oh...the people you'll meet!

 

     Of all the things that fuel my love for travel, including exciting destinations and new cultures, I think the interesting people I meet top my list. It doesn't matter where I go; people want to share their stories.  Maybe I have one of those faces, or give off a vibe of approachability, but people always seem to strike up conversations with me.  On a plane, in an elevator, at the hotel lounge, at a tourist destination or in a restaurant, I always seem to have the privilege of listening to weird and wonderful people share fascinating tales of insight, heartache, triumph, joy, tragedy, success, and failure.  And sometimes they just want to bitch about life!

     On a recent business trip to Seattle, I spent an evening exploring Pike’s Place Market and stopped by the Hard Rock Café for sustenance…and a rock and roll memorabilia fix!  As I scanned the bar for a seat, a kind looking woman spotted me and said she would move her purse to make room for me.  We started to chat and she shared her story.  Her 17-year-old son is a bull rider.  He was trampled by a bull, and subsequently spent the last month in a Seattle hospital getting the specialized medical care he needed to save his life.  The woman’s husband and three daughters were back in Montana holding down the home front while she cared for and supported her ailing son 500 miles from home.  As I bid the woman good-bye, she headed to Pike’s Market to buy flowers for the nurses at the hospital.  She wanted to show her gratitude for the loving care they were giving her son. My hat's off to the mother of the young bull rider from Missoula, Montana. Your courage, resilience and gratitude touched my heart.

                  

A Monumental Afternoon



McKinley Monument
Canton, Ohio

Canton, Ohio will be bustling this week as football enthusiasts from all over the country will teem into the city to partake in the myriad activities planned for the 2014 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival.  While the Pro Football Hall of Fame should not be missed, don’t overlook the The William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum during your stay.

There you will find many interesting artifacts related to the life and times of President William McKinley (the 25^th President of the United States) and his family.  I was lucky enough on my visit to be paired with a wonderful docent named Carl Patron, who shared fascinating stories about the McKinley’s as they related to the items on display.

If you are a “Pawn Stars” fan, you may remember a recent episode featuring Ida McKinley’s now famous diamond tiara. The tiara was purchased by Rick Harrison, co-owner of the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas for $43,000.  Mr. Harrison was planning to use the special tiara to raise 

Ida McKinley's Diamond Tiara

money for the National Epilepsy Foundation.  According to Mr. Patron, “Ida McKinley had epilepsy and so does Rick Harrison.”  In order to return the tiara to its rightful home, Rick Harrison agreed to sell the tiara to the museum for the price he paid for it. 

For the star gazers in your group, consider visiting the Hoover-Price Planetarium during your time at the museum.  Although the presentation lacked star quality, the equipment and depiction of the night sky were out of this world.

The exercise enthusiast in your group will enjoy climbing the 108 steps of the McKinley Monument to view the final resting place of President William McKinley.  The impressive monument resides over the city and is a tribute to the President who called Canton, Ohio his home.

McKinley Monument

 

Walk Like A Parisian

Bountiful bins full of colorful produce, fragrant flower bouquets, the aromatic scent of fresh baked baguette, a vast array of cheese and other gastronomic delights; too many to choose from.  You will find all this and so much more as you stroll the narrow cobblestoned street that is Rue Mouffetard.

Located in the 5^th arrondissement, of Paris, Rue Mouffetard is the quintessential Parisian experience.  It is here that the locals catch up with their neighbors, pick up their daily baguette, and purchase a variety of fresh groceries for their dinner.

Known as one of the most reputable and renowned pedestrian streets in Paris, Rue Mouffetard is the perfect place for visitors to truly experience life like a Parisian.  From wine shops to chocolatiers, lively sidewalk cafes to street vendors pedaling freshly made crepes; everything your heart and palate desire can be found on the famed Rue Mouffetard.  It is a truly enjoyable experience you won’t want to miss. The next time you are in Paris, take a walk on Rue Mouffetard and walk like a Parisian!

If you go:

 

Take Metro 7: Les Gobelins / Place Monge. 

Tuesday to Saturday 7am-1pm for groceries

10 am-6 pm for shops, cafes, and restaurants

Reims, France: Architecture, History, Champagne!

With its 13th-century gothic cathedral, its rich historical significance, and its vast array of champagne caves, the city of Reims makes a great day trip from Paris.  Located 80 miles north-east of Paris, in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France, this historic city is easy to reach by car or high speed train.



Notre-Dame de Reims

Rising up from the cobblestone streets in the center of the city is the magnificent Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral.  Known as the coronation cathedral of France, French kings were crowned here for centuries.  The cathedral itself boasts many historical treasures including exceptional statuary, rich tapestries, and amazing stained glass windows.


I personally enjoyed my visit to this cathedral better than Notre-Dame de Paris.  It was far less crowded and touristy.  Not to mention the fact that the Chagall stained glass windows are beautiful!


Chagall Stained Glass- Notre-Dame de Reims

Although Reims has a modern day feel, it is a city steeped in history.  On what was formerly a 4th century Roman chalk quarry, and later the site of The Saint Nicaise Abbey run by 13th century monks, Champagne Taittinger now makes it mark on history and wine making.

Hand-carved stairway circa 13th century

A tour of the champagne caves is well worth the trip and lasts about an hour.  As you descend into the caves, you take the same journey into the cellars the early monks did before you, as they carefully crafted their wines.  True to tradition, every bottle of champagne stored here today is still hand turned and cared for with exacting detail for a minimum of six years prior to being released for distribution. 

Champagne Taittinger storage process

Champagne Taittinger caves

 Although many champagne houses in Reims offer tours, the Champagne Taittinger tour is excellent and available on a walk-in basis.  Tours are offered in English as well as French, morning and afternoon.  Check local listings for the tour schedule.





Not For Those of Nervous Disposition!

The Catacombs

Sixty five feet below the city of Paris lies a macabre yet interesting display of history.  This underground necropolis know as The Catacombs, houses millions of bones belonging to cadaverous Parisians.







Bone display inside The Catacombs

Although far older than 228 years, The Catacombs were officially blessed and consecrated in April 1786.  It was then that city officials deemed the above ground cemeteries a public health hazard due to overcrowding.


Taking two years, and thousands of man hours, the bones from the Cimetiere des Innocents graveyard were transferred to this unique underground golgotha. Subsequent transfers from additional boneyards are represented in this gruesome crypt below the city. 


Bones from St. Jean Cemetery

Today, The Catacombs are officially part of the History of Paris Museum. They showcase millions of years of geological history, as well as the charnel house holding the remains of over six million Parisian souls.  The bones are stacked and arranged in provocative displays in an attempt to honor the lives of those entombed here.


Inside The Catacombs of Paris


 If you go:

• Plan to arrive early.  For safety reasons only 200 visitors are allowed in the tunnels at one time.  Crowds circle the block waiting to purchase tickets for this intriguing tour.
• There are no restrooms once inside The Catacombs.  Be sure to use the washroom before you go.
• The Catacombs are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5 PM.  Closed Mondays and public holidays.
• Wear good walking shoes.  A steep winding staircase takes you into The Catacombs, and once inside there is a 2 kilometer walk through the ossuary.

Remember, The Catacombs are not suitable for small children, those with heart, respiratory or mobility problems, or those of nervous disposition!
 
 
 

 
 

A Few of Our Favorite Places

By

Sharon McKarns and Kendra Thornton

With all the great options available for travel these days it can be difficult to choose where to go and what to do when you get there. Some of the best places I have visited were recommendations from friends, fellow bloggers, and travel experts who have been through the trenches looking for that perfect trip or outing. Travel expert Kendra Thornton and I thought it would be fun to share some of our favorite places with you.

Family Fun on the Strip by Kendra Thornton

Las Vegas is both a great place to live and a spectacular destination for a family vacation. There is literally so much to do here that you might find yourself feeling a little torn about what to experience next. Don't waste a single minute of your trip trying to decide.

Learn to Golf Like Tiger Woods

When my husband and his buddies tried this, they had a great time! Tiger’s swing coach, Butch Harmon himself, teaches the Butch Harmon School of Golf in the Rio Secco Golf Club. While his expert staff heads most classes, Mr. Harmon teaches in person once per year in three-day stretches. This activity can be purchased along with a stay at Caesar's Palace, and transportation is included. It's an ideal surprise for the man in your life, and it gives you an excuse to hit the spa!

Unique and Interesting Museums

Despite the plethora of casinos and bars, Las Vegas isn't lacking in the finer things. With a variety of unique and interesting museums to visit, you'll find it easy to get your culture fix. My kids really enjoyed the Discovery Children's Museum. I particularly enjoyed the Neon Museum downtown, which is an outdoor attraction designed like an artistic junkyard. It features walkways, ramps and stairways that do a great job of highlighting the city's neon tradition. Another great place to visit is the National Atomic Testing Museum, only 65 miles from the Nevada nuclear test site.

Rock Star Mini Golf

My children are huge fans of miniature golf, and I love taking them to new and interesting courses. Although Myrtle Beach features pirates and dinosaurs, Las Vegas is home to Monster Mini Golf's KISS course, a tribute to one of America's greatest rock bands. Here, you'll find 18 holes of KISS-themed glow-in-the-dark indoor mini golf. The course consists of monstrous electric guitars, an animated imitation of the group and a 12-foot Gene Simmons head to putt the ball into.

Family Vs. Food

Las Vegas affords ample opportunity to engage in your own version of Man vs. Food, so be sure to come very, very hungry. In the BRAND Steakhouse at the Monte Carlo, you can choose to take on a whopping 7.5 pounds of steak, which comes with two special sauces and a side dish. At a staggering $250, you have every incentive to finish it all, because it's free if you do. The Monte Carlo also offers another challenge: an 8-pound burger. It's so much fun to watch people test their mastication mettle with these delicious challenges!

Las Vegas is truly a unique place with one of a kind attractions and restaurants. Even the hotels are unique and new ones are being built seemingly everyday. With so many options of places to stay, sites like Gogobot make it easy to read user reviews so you can find the perfect hotel for you and your family.

Beauty and Adventure in the Red Rocks

by Sharon McKarns

As one of my favorite places to visit, Sedona, Arizona has something to offer everyone.  There is plenty to do to keep you amazed, entertained and challenged during your visit to this unique, world class destination. You can bask in the glory of a beautiful sunset as it reflects off the majestic red rocks of Sedona, or you can enjoy one of these great activities:

The Verde Valley Wine Trail

Sedona is a great starting point to indulge your passion for wine in Northern Arizona. You can visit one of several exceptional wineries in the region including Alcantara Vineyards, Page Springs Cellars, Oak Creek Vineyards, and Javelina Leap Vineyard and Winery.  All four stops offer a unique variety of wines to satisfy any taste.  Consider taking a tour with your girlfriends, or quench your palate with that special someone in your life.  The Verde Valley Wine Trail makes for a great day or weekend!

The Verde Canyon Railroad

Verde Canyon Railroad

Travel back in time as you and your family enjoy the beauty of the Verde Canyon on what some call Arizona’s longest running nature show.  Young and old alike will enjoy this twenty mile train ride as it winds through the most pristine part of Verde Canyon.  Sip champagne, grab a snack, relax in your vintage locomotive, or spend time on the open air car listening to a narrator share the remarkable history, geology and wildlife of the canyon.  Keep your eyes peeled.  You might spot a bald eagle, a great blue heron or some fascinating rock formations on the Verde Canyon Railroad.

Slide Rock State Park
Beat the heat as you experience the exhilaration of cool mountain water thrusting you down the natural rock water slide at Slide Rock State Park, in Oak Creek Canyon, Arizona.  Just a short drive from Sedona, Slide Rock is a thrilling way to spend the day with family and friends.  Pack a picnic and enjoy the picturesque surroundings of northern Arizona.  Don’t forget to take your bathing suit and a pair of water shoes. You’ll be glad you did.  If you go, plan to arrive early as the park often fills to capacity.
Sedona is a scenic, extraordinary destination with noteworthy resorts, restaurants and activities.  Visitors from all over the world savour the beauty of the red rocks and all that northern Arizona has to offer.

Now that we have shared a few of our favorite places, feel free to comment and share some of your favorite places.  We would love to hear from you.

Contributing writer, Kendra Thornton, appears as a travel expert on television stations across the country to offer travel tips and deals to millions of people every year. She makes regular appearances on ABC, NBC and CW stations in major cities such as New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. She has also made special guest appearances on The Nate Show, Fine Living Network and The Tyra Banks Show. Her firm, Thornton Public Relations LLC, is an independent, boutique public relations firm providing personal service and proven results. The agency’s distinguished work ethic and deep industry knowledge have earned it credibility with the media and respect from industry leaders.  Contact Kendra Thornton at:mail@thorntonpr.com

Sharon McKarns is a travel writer eager to explore the world and share her travel experiences. Her goal is to pack her blog with interesting stories, beautiful pictures and useful travel information. Guest bloggers/contributing writers are encouraged to contact Sharon at travelpacked@gmail.com.  She is also on twitter: @travelpacked1.

 

Butch Harmon School of Golf

2013 Fiesta Bowl Parade

Fiesta Bowl Parade

Onlookers lined the streets of Phoenix, AZ today to watch the 2013 Fort McDowell Fiesta Bowl Parade.

Fiesta Bowl Float

Locals and visitors alike, including fans from Central Florida and Baylor, and Kansas State and Michigan cheered as floats and marching bands representing their teams passed by.






Tostitos Balloon Floats

                                                                   


It was a beautiful day for a parade! 

Papago Park-Part 1: Hole-In-The-Rock

Hole-In-The-Rock

What do unique sandstone formations that mark the passage of time, a prisoner of war camp, lagoons, desert flora, and a vast array of animals have in common?  They are all part of the diverse history and present day activities associated with Papago Park, located in Phoenix, Arizona.  Today’s post marks the first in a series of interesting lore and points of interest about this unique urban retreat.

With the winter solstice just around the corner, I thought it would be a great time to feature an ancient time piece known as Hole-In-The-Rock, located within Papago Park. Hole-In-The-Rock is a beautiful sandstone butte with large cave like holes in it.  The holes, called tofani, are the result of water eroding the minerals in the sandstone over time.

Visitors enjoying the view from Hole-In-The-Rock

Archaeologists believe the Hohokam, a native tribe of ancient desert farmers who inhabited the region until the mid-15^th century, used Hole-In-The-Rock as a way to keep track of the seasons.  During the Winter Solstice, a ray of light from the sun interacts with a seam in the sandstone rock.

The Summer Solstice, which occurs on June 21, is believed to have been marked by the sun shining on a metate grinding slick on the floor of the opening.

 

 

For pagans and non-pagans alike, Hole in the Rock is a fun easy hike with great views of the city. There is an easily accessible trail on the back side of the rock formation. The climb takes about 10 minutes.  Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and take your camera.  You could even pack a picnic!

Hiking trail on the back side of Hole-In-The-Rock

If you go: 

Papago Park is located at 625 N. Galvin Parkway

 

And remember, stay tuned to Travelpacked for part two of this urban park series.

Hole-In-The-Rock at Papago Park

Travel Quote Slide Show

Please enjoy my favorite travel quotes paired with pictures I have taken during some of my travels.  Comments are welcome.
  

Travel Tips for People with Hearing Loss

October is a great time to travel. The leaves are changing colors.  There is a crispness in the air.  It is also National Audiology Awareness Month in the U.S.  As such, I thought it would be a good time to address the challenges that people with hearing loss experience while traveling.  After consulting several professional resources, I compiled a list of the best travel tips for people with hearing impairment:

1. Do not pack your hearing aids or cochlear implant in your checked luggage. Carry them on.
2. Bring an extra set of hearing aids with you, especially on long trips. Consider purchasing an inexpensive set of hearing aids as a back up.
3. Keep paper and pens handy for communication. You can also use various apps on your smart phone if you find yourself in a situation that is too noisy to verbally communicate.
4. Take a vibrating alarm clock with you. Not all countries have special accommodations for people with hearing loss.
5. Take extra batteries, cleaning tools, wax guards, domes, and a mini dry aid kit with you.
6. If you have a cochlear implant or other implantable device make sure you take your medical ID card with you.
7. You do not need to take your hearing aids off as you go through security.
8. Train stations and airports can be very noisy. Do not rely on your ability to hear boarding announcements or directions. Check monitors often for changes in flight or train schedules.
9. Make sure your travel documents are in order and handy. If you can't hear the customs officials, just hand them your documents and let them know you have a hearing impairment.
10. Check ahead of time if your hotel is equipped for the hearing impaired. If so, book that room, if available. In the U.S. larger hotels are required to have handicapped accessible rooms. This includes amplified telephones and visual alerts for both the phone and smoke alarm.
11. Use your T-coils while traveling, especially in Europe. Looping is very popular there.
12. Ask your tour guide to use an Assistive Listening Device (ALD).
13. Set your phone to vibrate or go off near departure time in case you can't hear the boarding announcement.
14. Take the name and phone number of your audiologist or customer service department of the device manufacturer with you. They can ship spare parts or direct you to a professional near your travel destination in case of emergency.

For further information and helpful tips for travelers with hearing impairment consult these resources:

• http://www.cochlear.com/wps/wcm/connect/us/recipients/baha-3/baha-3-lifestyle/how-to/travel/travel
• http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/Travel-Tips-for-the-Hearing-Impaired.cfm
• http://sath.org/
• www.earboutique.com

Beachy Keen

 

The gentle ocean breeze, sounds of the surf crashing to the shore, surfers, and bikini clad sun worshipers scattered along the white sand beach make Oceanside, California a great beach destination.



Oceanside Beach



A quintessential beach town along the California coast, Oceanside has a lot to offer.  The classic wooden pier reminiscent of days gone by is a prominent landmark of this friendly beach town.  While there, make sure you walk to the end of the pier to grab a bite to eat at Ruby’s Diner.  The kids will love it and so will you.

Take a break from the beach and head inland to Mission San Luis Rey, the largest of the California missions, or cruise the coast highway (Historic Route 101) through downtown Oceanside.  Next, stop at Oceanside Harbor Village to shop, have dinner, or enjoy the boats.  We went to Harbor Village at sunset and had some spectacular nautical views.

Oceanside Harbor Village

Whether you love to ride the waves, bask in the sun or just enjoy the laid back vibe of a beach town, Oceanside, CA is for you.  It truly is beachy keen.

A Toast in the Desert

Arriba, Abajo, Al Centro, Al Dentro, Salud!  These words make for an interesting start to happy hour at the JW Marriott Starr Pass in Tucson, Arizona.  This traditional tequila toast, shared with guests at sunset each evening, is one of the many traditions that make this hotel a great place to stay the next time you visit Tucson, AZ.

The toast is completed on the hotel’s back patio amidst the magnificent beauty of the Sonoran Desert.  Guests in attendance are treated to the Legend of Arriba Abajo as they enjoy the stunning views, a complimentary shot of tequila, and an occasional glimpse of desert wildlife.  We were lucky enough to spot a family of mule deer amongst the amazing flora of the desert surroundings.

According to the legend, a Mexican revolutionary, General Pancho Villa, was madly in love and wanted to marry his beloved, Juanita.  When he asked Juanita’s father, Don Pablo, for her hand, Don Pablo devised a plan to avoid losing his daughter.  He challenged General Villa to a tequila drinking contest.

I am not going to tell you how the legend ends.  You will have to visit the JW Marriot Starr Pass to find out!  And while you are there, take time to enjoy a round of golf on the Arnold Palmer golf course, float on the lazy river, relax at the Hashani spa or just drink up the beauty of the Sonoran desert.  Salud! 

A Presidential Experience





Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

Who is considered the second greenest president of the United States, a supporter of women’s liberation and gay rights, and the man who predicted that Khrushchev’s children would live in freedom?  These interesting facts and more can be learned at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library located in Yorba Linda, California.

A portion of the Berlin Wall

There you will find an interesting array of artifacts, documents, photos, and multi-media exhibits.  Not just of President Nixon’s life during his presidency, but a history of America and the many changes that took place during a significant part of the twentieth century.  From the house where Richard Nixon was born to his final resting place, both located on the beautiful library grounds, people of all ages will enjoy the vast collection of American history the museum has to offer.

Presidential Limousine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So the next time you are in southern California, be sure to make time to visit the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum.  It’s only a short drive from Disneyland. 



Birthplace and Childhood Home of Richard Nixon

If you go:

Operating Hours

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun. 

Admission

Adult $11.95

Children (7-11) $4.75

Children (6 and under) Free

Be sure to ask for your military, AAA or student discount.

 

The Town That Time Forgot

Stepping out of the tour bus and onto the uneven cobblestone street, I felt transported back in time.  As I looked around, lush landscape and rolling hills were visible as far as the eye could see.  A stone staircase carved out of the hillside was the only path that led to the charming town that time forgot. 

Passing through the massive medieval gate and into the heart of the city, I was greeted by an array of wild flowers whose intoxicating fragrance filled my senses.  I was entranced by the peacefulness and charm of the city.  The ancient stone buildings, the Franciscan monks in brown wool robes strolling the narrow cobblestone streets, the merchants displaying their wares in the windows of quaint shops, the ancient basilica nestled in the hillside. 

Sitting atop the rolling hills of the Italian countryside in the Umbria region of Italy lays the ancient town of Assisi.  Best known for being the birthplace of St. Francis, the patron saint of Italy, Assisi is a destination not to be missed. 

Biking the Vail Pass

Vail Pass Bike Trail

The thrill and exhilaration increase with your speed as you cycle downhill on the Vail Pass bike trail, en route for the town of Frisco, Colorado.  Beautiful vistas, mountain streams, and increasing velocity are all part of this 14 ½ mile alpine bike experience. 

Our excursion started in the town of Breckenridge, Colorado where we rented our bikes and geared up for an afternoon of mountain biking.  From there we took a short van ride up the mountain to the start of our downhill adventure.

 “Keep heading downhill and you can’t get lost,” the outfitter explained as he bid us adieu.  “I’ll pick you up in Frisco.”   And we were off on our exciting mountain journey.

Covered bridges, picturesque streams and snowcapped mountains dashed by as we raced downhill at speeds of nearly 30 miles per hour.  A few stops to enjoy the surrounding countryside were definitely in order.  Near the end of our ride we came upon the ski village of Copper.  We cycled through the streets until we found the trail that would lead us to the town of Frisco.  A cold drink and hot food were waiting for us at trails end. 

A short ride later we cycled into Frisco where our group opted to stop at a German pub called Prost.  There we enjoyed homemade sausages and hot pretzels with a variety of unique mustards, a cold drink, and best of all, warm apple strudel and ice cream.  All too soon it was time to meet our driver, load up our bikes and head back to the town of Breckenridge.  What an ideal way to spend an afternoon.



Frisco, CO

If you go:

I recommend renting your bikes from Alpine Sports, a family owned business in Breckenridge, Colorado.  The equipment was well maintained, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. The prices were reasonable, too.

Alpine Sports

610 S. Ridge Street

Breckenridge, CO  80424

907-453-8100