Want to discover the best hikes in Costa Rica? From popular jaunts through the coastal rainforest to arduous climbs to mountain peaks, Costa Rica has vibrant and varied landscapes that offer endless opportunities for hiking. Indeed, sometimes there’s no other way to…
Sitka, Alaska – On our last day, we rallied the troops for one last hike in the wilds of Southeast Alaska. After much hemming and hawing, we opted for the Indian River Trail, which is recommended for its easy terrain…
What’s in a name? Juneau, Alaska – Apparently, the original Tlingit name for Mendenhall Glacier was Sitaantaagu, or “the glacier behind the town.” My source (Encyclopedia Britannica) says the Tlingit also called it Aak’wataaksit, which means “the glacier behind the…
Juneau, Alaska – Check out the fabulous view from our place in Juneau–from Douglas Island across the Gastineau Channel to Mount Roberts. And, you can see the massive cruise ships that dock at the base of Mount Roberts. I’m not…
Ketchikan, Alaska – After its founding in 1900, Ketchikan became the first port of call for ships traveling to Alaska from the south, thus earning its nickname, The First City. Nowadays, it’s no different, as cruise ships stop here first…
There’s more to Cape Cod than sea and sand. Some of the coolest things to do on the iconic Massachusetts “arm” take place off the beach. Get out on the water for fantastic wildlife watching; indulge in the region’s finest seafood and hottest…
Kapa’a, Kauai – When planning our trip, Twin V specially requested swimming in a waterfall. Once I abandoned my plans to hike to Hanakapiai Falls, I set out to find an alternative. I finally decided on the Wailua Falls –…
Waimea, Kauai – In the southwest corner of Kauai, the town of Waimea is the gateway to the Waimea Canyon, a magnificent red-earth gorge. They call it the Grand Canyon of the Pacific (of course they do). It’s not quite…
Topsfield, Mass – The grandparents came to visit! We celebrated this somewhat rare occurrence by meeting our cousins at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. We had been to this Mass Audubon property years ago (nine years ago!) for maple sugar…
Los Planes, Costa Rica – We left Cabo Matapalo and moved across to the other side of the Osa Peninsula, where we are staying at the darling, friendly and extremely remote Naguala Jungle Lodge. This is a sweet family operated…