Route 66

It’s a route so legendary that celebrated author John Steinbeck named it The Mother Road in his novel The Grapes of Wrath. The highway built in the 1920s that once served as a main thoroughfare from east to west, still beckons travelers seeking a classic piece of Americana.

The historic Route 66 runs from Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California and crosses the states of Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and Arizona.

Spanning a distance of more than 2,000 miles, Route 66 passes through a cross section of the USA that lets you see the country’s heart and soul. Traverse the urban streets of Chicago and St. Louis, take in the expansive Grand Canyon, experience the Southwest’s Native American communities, and hit the beach in Santa Monica without leaving the route.

This well-worn, fabled road has a history worth noting. In the mid-1940s, Route 66 wound through small towns across the Midwest and Southwest. It was often called the “Main Street of America” with its mom-and-pop shops, cafes, motels and gas stations.  In the late 1950s, the old Route 66 was bypassed as high-speed interstate highways were built.  Still, pop culture pumped more life into the road with Nat King Cole’s song, “Route 66” and the 1960s “Route 66” TV show starring a Chevrolet Corvette. The Pixar movieCars was inspired by a road trip on Route 66, and was almost named “Route 66.” 

In 1984, Route 66 was decommissioned and the old route, now designated as Historic Route 66, still maintains its original charisma.  Roadside attractions include a treasure trove of 1950s nostalgia from general stores to diners to quirky motels equipped with neon signs—all capturing the glory days like a weathered Polaroid snapshot. Lodging in these kitschy motels is a memorable way to experience the nostalgia. The Munger Moss Hotel in Lebanon, Missouri is quintessential Route 66 stop, while the novelty-laced Wigwam Motel in Holbrook, Arizona lets you “sleep in a Wigwam.” El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, also known as “Home of the Movie Stars” catered to the likes of celebrities like John Wayne and Humphrey Bogart.

Landmarks include the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) in Chicago, Illinois, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri and the Mojave National Preserve in Nipton, California. On the novelty side, you can see the “World’s Largest Concrete Totem Pole” near Foyil, Oklahoma and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. The Ariston Café is a member of the Route 66 Hall of Fame and a popular stop for food in Litchfield, Illinois. Further down the road in Amarillo, Texas, a famous spot called Big Texan serves massive 72 oz. steaks.

Once you reach the California coast, the Santa Monica Pier marks the original end of the route. However, traveling to Los Angeles and Sunset Boulevard through the oldest part of the city, the Spanish colonial Olvera Street is a particularly wonderful add-on.

What to bring: an appetite for the eclectic, an open mind and a travel journal to record your chance encounters, hidden gems and favorite stops.

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March on Washington, DC

Today marks the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, and Dr. Martin Luther King’s inspirational “I Have a Dream” speech. On this day in 1963, more than 200,000 people gathered in Washington, DC, and Dr. King’s speech has lived on in the hearts and minds of Americans and people around the world, as his legacy has helped support the reality of a global community.

Reliving this historic event years later in the city where it all took place was a  powerful experience. For those international travelers interested in all facets of American culture, this movement is an important part of the nation’s collective history. Read on to find out what the March on Washington means for visitors like you, and visit our Facebook page for more images from the event.

 Washington D.C.: A Heart of History and Culture, Then and Now

“We’re excited to host a march 50 years later and to be physically here for the event,” said Elliott Ferguson, President and CEO of Destination DC, the destination marketing organization for Washington, DC. “It is exciting to talk about what this means to America as a country and how things have changed over the last 50 years.”

Washington, DC has gone through an impressive transformation since 1963. “Fifty years ago when someone would come to DC it would be about visiting the monuments and memorials, and to a certain extent the museums,” Ferguson recalled. While the three M’s of Museums, Monuments and Memorials are a vital part of the traveler experience, the city has evolved to offer much more.

Its history and place as the seat of power for the United States adds complexity and intrigue to the destination. However, as locals know, there are really two Washingtons: the political side and the other side. “The political side with Capitol Hill is important, but there is the other side of the city with the neighborhoods, restaurants and shops…and so many things to see and do,” said Ferguson. “You can get so many facets of American history and culture right here in Washington D.C.”

Experience History Firsthand and Get a True Taste of Washington, D.C.

Make your first stop the National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial. “Think about all of the historic events that have taken place, including the march on Washington, in front of the Lincoln Memorial. You feel as if you were there when history was being made 50 years ago and then again in 2013,” Ferguson advises. Next walk over the new Martin Luther King memorial, where you will find an imposing likeness of the famous leader and many of his important quotes. After you’ve worked up an appetite head over to Ben’s Chili bowl, one of the oldest African American-owned business in the District. Stop there and enjoy their famous half-smoke chili dogs and take in some of the homegrown history.

Many museums are hosting exhibitions surrounding this historic time, visit Washington.org to plan your trip and find out more information on the entire Civil Rights movement including information on the U Street Corridor.

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The National Christmas Tree Lights Up the USA Holiday Season

The holiday season is a magical time in the USA, where cities all over the country are adorned with festive lights, sparkling decorations and wintry scenes to celebrate the season. The nation’s capital Washington, DC showcases our national spirit with a very special annual tradition, the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Taking place every year since 1923, the National Tree Lighting Ceremony is traditional part of holiday celebrations, and the tree remains up throughout the holiday season to bring joy to all who see it. The national tree, as well as trees for every state and territory, in addition to a menorah and other holiday decorations decorate Presidents Park in front of the White House for all to see.

This year we had the distinct pleasure of attending The National Park Service’s 91st annual National Tree Lighting Ceremony. Hosted by American actor and comedian Jane Lynch, the star-studded show featured President Barack Obama, award-winning singers Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin and more. Here are a few of the memorable highlights.

Jane Lynch kicks off the show with a few jokes to get the crowd warmed up.

The first family gets ready to light the tree.

Legendary singer and “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin wows the audience with “Joy to the World.”

New hit musical trio Forte performs at the National Christmas Tree Lighting.*

First Lady Michelle Obama reads the holiday classic "'Twas The Night Before Christmas" withSesame Street's Abby Cadabby.*

Best-selling female artist of all time Mariah Carey closes out the ceremony with a bang with her famous holiday hit “All I Want for Christmas is You.”

The show was filled with so many sounds and sights of the season. See the rest of the images from the ceremony here or watch the show live: http://bit.ly/1iPX5FU.  Next season, book a trip to the USA to experience our special holiday spirit live.

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Twin Cities: Diners, Bulldozers, & Museums

We started the day early but not bright, as it was pouring rain. For breakfast we found a local favorite called Mickey’s Diner. It was featured in the classic movie The Mighty Ducks and spurred a whirlwind of nostalgia, as well as a favorite movie conversation. There was a jukebox on the table, too, that was filled with classics and modern hits alike. The food was excellent and gave us the fuel we needed for the busy day ahead.

Bellies full, we hit the road. Our next stop was Extreme Sandbox, a heavy equipment adventure where we experienced first-hand what it’s like to operate heavy machinery. We immediately loved it! The owner, who was nice and really funny, told us the story behind his unique destination. He was driving by a construction zone when his son said, “That looks like my sandbox,” pointing at the trucks. A few beers with his brother later, the idea was born.

After a safety video, we got to drive an excavator and a bulldozer. We dug a huge hole and tried to hit a basketball into it with the arm of the machine. The owner calls it excavator golf. It really brought out the kid in all of us. 

We were having so much fun we didn’t realize we were already late for our next stop. So we wrapped things up and rolled out, this time on the actualGreat River Road. We spotted an eagle at the edge of the road, hunting prey. This seemed like a good omen since we were headed to the National Eagle Center. 

While at this refuge for the USA’s national bird, which is an endangered species, we got a tour and watched eagles that have been rehabilitated from serious injury. The center even recreated an eagle’s nest that we got to stand inside. The tour guide said it was small, but we all agreed it was larger than some of our kitchens (we’re city people). Then they brought an actual eagle out and we were thrilled to snap some pictures with it.

Back on the road we ventured to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum. The structure itself wasn’t big, but the paintings inside were beautiful. All the works revolved around water, which was woven into the pieces in really cool ways. Luckily, we came right before closing so we got to enjoy a room full of paintings by Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh all by ourselves. 

In the late afternoon we made our way to our hotel, the Village House Inn, to check in. It was a huge space built in the late 1800s but restored just recently. With multiple sitting rooms and a lovely piano, we all agreed that it was too cool not to enjoy. 

After an awesome dinner, we went downtown to the Mid West Music Fest, a three-day music festival hosted at venues all around town. We caught the tail end of an act at the Acoustic Café, where we sang along to A-ha’s “Take on Me.” 

Tomorrow’s forecast calls for sunshine, so we’re all excited for a hike on the bluffs in Wisconsin. We can’t wait to be dry and enjoy some time outside!

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Memphis: City of Kings

After breakfast in the Elvis Presley’s Heartbreak Hotel jungle room (it actually looks like a jungle), we went across the road to the Graceland mansion, the entire house was fascinating! We grabbed our headsets and set off on our audio-guided tour. It was really cool to walk through Elvis’ life. After the mansion tour, we checked out his amazing car collection, the sparkling costume the King wore in Vegas, and his personal plane collection. What a guy!

Next we got in the car for a brief drive (everyone joked about how nice that was after yesterday’s long drive) and headed to downtown Memphis. We dropped our bags at our hotel and set out to explore on foot, which was a welcome change after being in a car for so long. The area was beautiful, especially the arts district. 

We stopped at Central BBQ for lunch, and marveled at how nice the waitress was. Once the food arrived no one spoke for 10 minutes because it was so good. Best BBQ we’ve ever tried—every bite was incredible! We topped it off with caramel cake and were all very, very happy. [For more on BBQ, see our Texas BBQ Trail]. 

Across the street we found the Lorraine Motel, where the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. was shot, and the National Civil Rights Museum. Sadly the museum was closed, but we were able to see the balcony where Dr. King spoke his last words. It was very solemn and we were all honored for the opportunity to see it. 

The clouds were starting to move in, so we hit the road. Along the way we saw the Gibson Guitar Factory and decided to stop. Lucky for us, a tour just started. It was amazing to see how these famous guitars are made. We held the wood the guitars are made from and watched as people spray painted them. The attention to detail was stunning.

Afterward we walked over to the Memphis Rock ’n’ Soul Museum. This fun museum takes you through the history of music in Memphis from the 1920s. We could personally select the soundtrack in our headsets on our audio tour from jukeboxes that housed songs of every generation. Everyone danced in place and shook their hips as we walked through. It was probably a pretty funny sight.

Our next stop was the famous Beale Street and the A. Schwab Dry Goodsstore. With three floors, it’s a massive space full of vintage clothes, gag gift items, antiques and an old-fashioned soda shop. We played around and made a few fun purchases. As we exited, we heard a band playing across the street so we made our way over. We sat outside on the patio and watched the amazing blues band play—the lead singer wowed us all by playing the guitar with his tongue and teeth.

We walked around Beale Street a bit more, admiring the history and vibrancy of the city. You can feel the energy it in the streets. None of us wanted to leave.

The road calls, though! We’ve got a lot of ground to cover tomorrow as we head to Mississippi.

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New Orleans: Jazz Fest & Po’Boys

After a great night out on Frenchmen Street, we needed a good breakfast. We met some new friends from the hotel at Café Adelaide. We dined on delicious beignets and biscuits, as we chatted with our new NoLa friends. They said the city feels like a small town at times, because everyone knows everyone and they’re all nice. We definitely agreed that it has a nice community feel. People greet you as you walk in, even if you’re a stranger.

Sadly, we packed our bags and loaded the car, but we weren’t done yet! We had nearly all day to explore! 

Next up: the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival! We knew we had limited time if we wanted to see more of the city, but still wanted to hit everything, so we did it all fast. We went from the gospel tent to the big band area to the Brazilian area and the big stage. Finally we ended in the blues tent listening to Big Al. Listening to a local jazz icon in the city that started it all really made us feel like we were enjoying a part of cultural history. 

We had a few more New Orleans spots on our culinary list and lucky for us, it was lunchtime. We started at Central Grocery Co. Its claim to fame is being the creator of the original muffuletta – a delicious concoction of olive spread, mortadella, salami, mozzarella, ham and provolone. We were told it was one of New Orleans’ best-kept secrets until the 1960s when word spread, and places all over the country started serving it.

Of course, no dish is more identified with New Orleans than the po’boy, so we headed to NOLA Po’boys to try their specialties. (A po’boy is traditionalLouisiana sandwich served on a baguette stuffed with meat or fried seafood.) We opted for the fried oyster and BBQ shrimp, and they did not disappoint. They offer their sandwiches in their traditional spicy style, “Yankee,” which means “mild”, and “Cursing Murray [the owner] in the morning,” better known as “very spicy”.

We finished out our lovely stay in New Orleans with a final stroll through the French Quarter. Starting with the antique shops on Royal Street, we found everything from vintage musical instruments and neon signs to furniture and a few taxidermied animals thrown in—there was definitely something for everyone. We also found some great local art on Frenchmen Street where many of the local music venues and concert halls are located.

Last but certainly not least, we visited the famous Café Du Monde. A little insider tip is to wait and visit in the afternoon. During the breakfast hours, the line is wrapped around the block, but if you can hold off your cravings until lunchtime you can walk right up and snag a table. We stuck to the originals of beignets and coffee, which is famously flavored with chicory. We left completely satisfied and covered in powdered sugar. Totally worth it.

It’s been an amazing journey, but we’ve reached the end of the road. Next up, come along with us as we hit the Craft Beer Trail!

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Bluegrass and Breweries in Denver

We had the privilege of a personal tour around downtown Denver with Rich, a beer aficionado and Denver expert. He’s lived in Denver for over 35 years, after arriving by accident in a rundown Volkswagen Beetle that wasn’t able to drive out of town. He took us to his favorite breakfast spot,Sam’s No. 3 Diner and Bar. Between the group, we ordered just about every classic all-American breakfast dish off the menu. Their amazing waffles, pancakes, sunny-side-up eggs and hash browns fueled us up for the fun day ahead.

Next, we visited one of the oldest lodgings in town, the Oxford Hotel. Rich brought us to the hidden art deco bar, which was inspired by a bar that Queen Mary was commissioning at the same time. The red neon lighting inside added to the cool ambiance and made this a must-see destination.

Craft Beer Spotlight

Wynkoop Brewing Co., Denver

From there, we went to Colorado’s first brewpub, Wynkoop Brewing Co. Its unique wooden interior had a distinct warm personality and charm. They have everything from Bavarian malts, to American pale ales. Trust us, we tried as many as we could and we each had a personal favorite.

Oskar Blues Brewery, Longmont

As we approached Oskar Blues Brewery, it was hard to miss the giant farming silos that are painted to look like giant cans of beer. The live bluegrass music upstairs set this brewery apart from any other we had visited on our trip. The charming restaurant had a healthy yet hearty menu, inspired by local-farm produce curated by their proud chefs. They are particularly well known for their homemade farm pickles and sweet potato fries. We couldn’t leave without trying the beer-tasting flight and it was well worth it. We all tried the 10 different brews and each of us had a favorite. Our server, Tyra, also debuted their newest brew available in a can, Old Chub Nitro; its velvety texture was delicious. We shopped for souvenirs in the gift shop before heading off to our next brewery stop, New Belgium Brewing.

New Belgium Brewing, Fort Collins

We left Denver for Fort Collins and the nearby New Belgium Brewing Company. Its founder discovered inspiration for his first brew on a bicycle tour around Belgium, and the European influence can be felt in every detail at the brewery. We had a beer tasting and tried the first beer they ever produced, Abbey, a banana-flavored brew. Because New Belgium is one of the best microbreweries in the country, it really felt like we were almost tasting history. Tasty, tasty history.

After our tasting, we quickly headed into the historical old town of Fort Collins to take in the sights. After exploring the charming town, we could see why it was the inspiration for Disneyland’s Main Street. The unique clock, street lights and architectural details stood out, and were reminiscent of many childhood memories.

We made our way to Austin’s American Grill for dinner. We met up with Jessica, the local Fort Collins expert, and she recommended we sample the rotisserie chicken and prime rib. We were thoroughly impressed with everything. We left Fort Collins full and happy. Coloradoexceeded our expectations and we all promised to come back to explore more another time. Next stop: New Mexico!

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Geysers and springs from Wyoming to Idaho

We’re on the road again and heading for Independence Rock, which sits about an hour outside of Casper, Wyoming. And although the rock’s name would have you believe that it got its moniker due to its isolated location, it was actually called that because travelers arrived there on what is now known as Independence Day in the USA – July 4th.

Because of its smooth surface, pioneers were easily able to carve their names into the rock; we loved reading all of the names of real pioneers. It is a very unique thing to see on the road from Wyoming to Idaho, and it’s a quick stop, so you don’t lose much time on the drive.

Watching the landscape change on our way to Idaho, kept us intrigued and alert. Mountainous and vast – as far as the eye can see – it was also varied, in color and contrast. The conversations among our group never stopped either, making the six-hour drive feel much shorter. 

Reaching our destination, The National Oregon/California Trail Center in Montpelier, Idaho, we were able to stretch our legs and explore something new. During a 30-minute tour with Executive Director Becky Smith, we learned a lot about this interactive museum. Dressed in full 1850s costume, she led us through the site in character, explaining how the structure had been built on an original campsite from Oregon Trail pioneers.

Thirty miles away, the Soda Springs Geyser was our next stop. As we were coming upon the spring, we were admiring the surrounding terrain when the geyser proceeded to blow. The geyser’s managers say that the spring “Roars like a mad dragon” – an accurate description after witnessing this extraordinary geyser soar more than 20 meters into the air!

Then we turned up the heat and pointed our car toward the Lava Hot Springs Foundation Hot Pools. These hot springs are filled with natural water from the surrounding underground springs, yet there is no sulfur in them and therefore no bad odor.

These therapeutic pools range from 102˚F to112˚F (38˚C to 44˚C) and you can choose between ones with bubbles or ones without. Even the sidewalks and dressing room floors are heated! We started out in the cooler pools, progressively going hotter and hotter until we felt completely relaxed. After a long day of driving, this was the perfect way to relax and revitalize our bodies, getting them ready for a great night’s sleep at the hotel.

And what a hotel it was! The Riverside Hot Springs Inn was built 100 years ago, and even played host to former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt. It was full of quaint charm and was filled with big sash windows, oil lamps and wall-mounted animals.

From the very beginning, the Inn went above and beyond to ensure we had an enjoyable stay. We called to let them know that we would be arriving a bit later than anticipated and asked when the hotel kitchen closed. They informed us that the on-staff chef would be returning to cook us a special meal.

Not only did he return to work after leaving for the night, he surprised us by creating a number of dishes for us to pick and choose from, without any of us looking at the menu. This kind gesture really wowed us all and we felt very welcome in Idaho. We couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing ending to an already incredible day. We definitely felt rested for our adventures the next day!

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Native tribes and BASE jumpers in Idaho

Rejuvenated from our hot spring experience yesterday, we embraced day six with fresh minds and bodies. Excited to discover what southeastern Idaho had in store for us, we headed to the Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Museum, located on the Fort Hall Reservation.

The settlement of Native Americans that live here was formed when theShoshone and Bannock tribes merged. They are a self-governing group that manages their own schools, agricultural and commercial businesses.

The museum offers an intimate look into their history, and is truly a must-see for those curious about Native American cultures. The staff is genuinely friendly and they have a gift shop where they sell local, handmade goods. 

Just outside the city of Twin Falls, we stopped at Shoshone Falls, which sits along the Snake River. Standing 64 meters high, the falls are even taller than the famous Niagara Falls, and are often referred to as the “Niagara of the West.” We were told they are best viewed during spring and early summer, when water flow is high. We were so glad to be here during peak time!

There’s a lot to do here, from playgrounds to hiking trails and picnic areas. But the scenic overlook is the top attraction. It had rained a few minutes before we got there, so the amazing view was made especially magnificent by the appearance of a rainbow hovering just over the water. Everyone in the group agreed that this was one of their favorite destinations so far!

Just a few miles away from Shoshone Falls is the Buzz Langdon Visitor Center at Perrine Bridge. A free attraction, this breathtaking view looks out over the Snake River Canyon Rim. And if the view isn’t enough to get your adrenaline pumping, watching the BASE jumpers leap off the bridge sure will! The Perrine Bridge is the only manmade structure in the U.S. where BASE-jumping is allowed year-round without a permit. 

For lunch, we didn’t have to go far. Just five minutes away, Elevation 486had a table for us with a mind-blowing view of the vast surrounding landscape. A delicious, seasonal menu provided a memorable meal and a chance to reflect on the sights we had seen and ponder what the remainder of the day had in store for us.

As we made our way from Twin Falls to Boise, Idaho, along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, we took the time to stop and admire the amazing views, from breathtaking cliffs to waterfalls spilling out of the canyon walls. Don’t blink or you might miss it!

A quick stop at Three Island Crossing State Park, located just off of Interstate 84, showed us where the Native Americans assisted the Oregon Trail travelers in crossing the mighty Snake River. That had to have been a harrowing experience!

We finally arrived in Boise, Idaho’s state capital and most populous city. Once we got settled at the lovely, boutique Hotel 43, located in the heart of Boise, we headed out for a short walk to Fork, our dinner destination. Fork focuses on a “uniquely Boise” palette featuring locally grown, farm-fresh ingredients and in-house preparation. Joined by a lovely couple from Boise who own a local vineyard, we enjoyed a delicious meal and sipped on their wines and had lively discussions about our travels. We loved it and would recommend it to anyone coming to Boise!

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Oregon: The Heart of the Trail

We started our morning bright and early with a tour of Boise, including theOld Idaho Penitentiary (Old Pen), located on the outskirts of downtown Boise. This retired prison opened its doors in the year 1872 and officially closed in December 1973 – that’s a 101-year run! The most intriguing part of the tour was learning that in its early days, it was not a crime to try to escape, so attempts happened quite frequently.

Then we got on the road, following the river and admiring the architecture on our way to the World Center for Birds of Prey. They work to rescue and rehabilitate birds of prey, especially those close to extinction. We sat in on a live bird demonstration, where we were able to get up close and personal with one of their domesticated birds, the Aplomado Falcon. That was a real treat!

But an even sweeter one? Crossing the state line into Oregon! The whole car erupted into cheers when we saw the sign – our fifth state.

Exploring sure does work up an appetite! So we stopped into Paizano’s Pizza in Baker City for some creative pizza combinations, like The Alaskan, which had a garlic Alfredo sauce, smoked wild-caught salmon, red onions, shaved asparagus and cold sliced tomatoes. This was definitely an adventure in flavor and we left happy and full! 

Visiting the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center was next on our list. It was a unique experience for our group because it offered an interactive display of the many places we had been throughout the week. And it was nice to compare our modern experience to what the trail was like back in time. Not only was the building impressive on the inside, it also offered an amazing view of the surrounding mountains and more than four miles of interpretive trails.

A quick stop at Hamley & Co. had us feeling like we were in Texas rather than Oregon! Since 1883 they have been selling leather goods, metalwork, and custom saddles and Western wear to cowboys and everyone else.

Next up was McMenamins Edgefield, a national historic landmark originally built as a county poor farm (a publically funded farm that services needy people – we had to look it up too) that is now a destination resort. Covering almost 30 hectares of farmland near the stunning Columbia River Gorge Scenic Area, it is unlike any other hotel we have ever experienced. There are no televisions and no telephones in the rooms, encouraging a state of relaxation and escape. This resort included cozy interiors, gardens, local food and drink, live entertainment and more! It was a stay we won’t soon forget!

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California’s Pacific Coast Highway

Where you want to go and what you want to know 

Hi, or Konnichiwa as our traveling companions from Japan say. We’re the curious (and excited!) travelers on the PCH Road Trip. These are our favorite places (and detours) from what proved to be an epic scenic adventure.

When we landed in San Francisco to blue skies, the PCH was three letters and a few stories we had heard about its impressive scenery.

Over the next seven days, we came to truly appreciate why this historic highway is considered one of the most iconic roadways in the USA. No matter what you call it — “Route 1” or “Highway One” as they say on the North Coast, or the PCH as you venture south — driving this seascape highway is an exhilarating experience you won’t forget.

From the city to the sea cliffs and crashing surf, our adventure began with the colorful city life and spectacular landmarks of San Francisco. Invigorated and inspired, we pointed our GPS south and set out toward the remote 90-mile stretch of Big Sur.

We learned to love the fog-shrouded beaches, the creature comforts of inviting accommodations, feasting like locals on plentiful fresh seafood, locally grown meats and produce, and the wide array of culinary influences. From Mexican taquerias, to American “comfort food” diners, to Asian-fusion dining spots, there are hundreds of tempting eateries and farmer’s markets that pepper the coast, making this a “foodie’s” paradise. In between saying “Delicious!” a lot, we cranked our car radio (just like the famous band The Beach Boys did!) and savored the sunsets (take photos!). One thing we didn’t hear in the car as we twisted our way down the dizzying cliffs to the glamour of Southern California was, “Are we there yet?” Why? There’s so much to see along the way: the fairytale redwoods, the breezy beach towns, the wildlife reserves and the mountains that dive into the Pacific. But there are a few memorable destinations to mention.

Between San Francisco and Los Angeles, we soaked in the historic charm of Monterey, the artistry and silvery coastal light of Carmel Valley and the elegance of the golf mecca Pebble Beach. You may want to stop off where the landscape calms — where cypress trees, marine and land mammals and birdlife teem — at the “crown jewel” of the California State Park system, the Point Lobos State Reserve. Perhaps for us, though, one of the more memorable “getaways” of the Southern stretch of Big Sur, was Ragged Point, just north of San Simeon. Here you can hike a trail down the face of a cliff, cross your fingers for sea lion sightings, and then head inside for a storybook lunch at the Ragged Point Inn. We missed the sea lions this time, but not to worry. If you pull over at San Simeon Vista Park, the (sometimes hundreds of) elephant seals will greet you with their unique bark (and smells). Don’t be afraid to hold your nose while taking pictures!

It’s true, there’s fine wine outside of Wine Country. Since the 18th century when the Spanish missionaries planted one vineyard for every mission built (they needed the wine for mass), there has been a love affair with fine wine in California. Many travelers have heard of Sonoma and Napa Valley Wine Country to the north. We had a ball discovering the bounty of vineyards that the central coast has to offer. From Monterey to Santa Barbara counties, family-owned labels are flourishing and upholding those cultural traditions (and hard work!) with each bottle they produce. So whether you’re heading into Santa Ynez valley for the full vineyard experience (we made friends with the family dog!) or ambling along one of the charming downtown gallery scenes, chances are you’ll be invited in for a taste of a local wine. Don’t forget to raise your glass and say “Cheers!”

Down the winding road, there’s “SoCal” for sun, shopping and entertainment. We rolled into stylish Santa Barbara, recharged in star-studded Malibu and cruised over to what feels like the playground in the front yard of Los Angeles — Santa Monica. With the raw beauty of the PCH in our rearview, Santa Monica and LA offer a different kind of beauty — pure glamour. You’ll see it shopping on the 3rd Street Promenade, working under the movie lights at Universal Studios, and having drinks atop a skyscraper restaurant in Downtown’s LA LIVE. This is the place where dreamers go to get discovered. It’s the perfect last scene to close our PCH journey.

Whether for day trips or overnight stays, this is a warm and inviting region. You can thank in part the rich, cultural influences of early Spanish and Mexican settlers: the red-tiled roofs of the mission-style architecture, the culinary flavors of the Mediterranean and an easy-does-it spirit. This laid-back “vibe” makes the already picturesque settings all the more relaxing. In fact, our Japanese friends thought the culture of the coastal region was very easy to get used to (and very hard to leave!).

Next, we’re off to explore the open road and recipes of the Texas BBQ Trail with our friends from Korea. Check back for the smoking details on the ultimate in slow food.

Insider’s tip

Visit during whale-watching season — February through early April or May to September. If you’re lucky you might even spot the rare blue whales that have been sighted offshore in the past couple of years, due to an abundance of squid and krill that they love to eat.

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Surfing in Oahu

Even though we spent the entire evening at the beach yesterday, today was the first day we could get in a surfing lesson!

After breakfast at the Turtle Bay Resort, we headed next door to the Hans Hedemann Surf School for a lesson. After some basic safety rules and practicing on land, we got in the water. (Paddle, paddle, paddle, pop!) It’s hard. It’s actually really good exercise, which was great. We had so much fun! And while none of us will be winning any trophies for it any time soon, we agreed a surfing lesson is a must when you’re in Hawaii.

After “carving the waves”, we headed down Kamehameha Highway for lunch at Kahuku Grill. It was located on the site of the historical Old Kahuku Sugar Mill, which was built in 1893 and a huge part of Hawaii’s sugar industry in the early 1900s. After lunch, we opted to explore the Hauula Loop Trail, which was a relaxing few-mile walk mostly shaded by trees.

Next it was time for our long trip around the coast, past Hawaii’s green and gentle mountains, all the way to Oahu’s southern shores of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu and the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. We arrived at dusk to see its beautiful towering buildings sparkling right on the beach, surrounded by palms. Everything about it said “paradise.” We stayed at the resort for dinner where we enjoyed a spectacular water view and fresh food cooked to perfection.

Tomorrow is our last day here in Hawaii and we’ll be exploring Honolulu. Stay tuned, Roadtrippers!

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Welcome to the Texas BBQ Trail

Howdy! (That’s how they say “hello” here in Texas.) Come to this part of the BBQ belt and you’ll notice that Texans have a lot to say when it comes to their barbecue. The slow, low-fire smokers aren’t just for cooking up some of the most tender meat you’ll ever savor, they also put off the incredible smells of hickory, oak or mesquite. Irresistible is one way to describe it.

From the centrally located Austin, Texas, on down Interstate 35 to San Antonio and into the smaller Hill Country regions like Lockhart, Elgin and Taylor, BBQ rules. But that’s not the only cultural world that thrives here. With tons of live music, shops, bars, farmers markets, and a healthy outdoor lifestyle scene, Texas brings it as big as its reputation. We set out on a BBQ pilgrimage with our friends from Korea, but soon discovered we were in for much more.

Hitting the Trail

We started in Austin, a city known for its night life, but we were here for the savory side of the city. So after a night at the Driskill Hotel, our first stop was breakfast at Torchy’s Tacos in the Trailer Park & Eatery for some genuine Tex-Mex. Torchy’s Tacos is part of the food truck movement you can find all over Austin, but Torchy’s serves up classic Austin breakfast tacos and is a favorite of the locals. We tried a couple of classics called “the miga” and “the wrangler” and we can see why they’re classics. Luckily our waitress told us to watch out for the birds…apparently they will try to steal your tacos!

Parks and lakes are among the benefits of visiting Austin. We went kayaking and paddle-boating in Lady Bird Lake and enjoyed beautiful scenic views of downtown Austin while paddling around turtles and swans. Luckily, no one fell in the water.

Before lunch we explored the Texas State Capitol building that, with its three-story rotunda, proved the old saying “everything is bigger in Texas.” Ok, time for more BBQ.

Today’s BBQ spotlight

Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue, Austin (www.lambertsaustin.com)

Our first stop on the famed Trail was a calm, cozy spot called Lambert’s Downtown Barbecue. The house BBQ sauce is a sweet hickory (with a little kick), and thanks to the open-air kitchen, the smell fills the restaurant. Our waitress made us feel like locals and helped us figure out what to order. To start, we shared a pile of crispy wild boar ribs over blue cheese puree with daikon and celery. For main courses we shared brisket, spicy sausage, and pulled pork along with Classic BBQ sides of mac-n-cheese, bacon braised collard greens, potato salad and of course, everyone’s favorite…herb french fries.

Stubb’s, Austin (www.stubbsaustin.com)

Beyond the smokers, Stubb’s is an entertainment destination. We went to Stubb’s for dinner and live music (yes! live music!) and loved it. Our server, Jose, even took us in the back so we could see the smoking process for ourselves. (They smoke their all-natural brisket overnight, so we didn’t see the whole thing.) Stubb’s is an Austin landmark at this point, and is a great example of what Austin does best: tap into the traditions of the area, master it and rethink it for a super entertaining experience. (P.S.: Did we mention the ribs fell off the bone?)

After a fantastic day of exploring, we headed back to our hotel, the Courtyard Austin Downtown Marriott, to rest our bodies and bellies. It’s centrally located and they use green practices to reduce their carbon footprint—pretty cool if you ask us.

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Into The U.S. South

The Southern U.S. is one of the most culturally rich regions in the country, and this is matched by an equally vibrant landscape, a mix of ancient eroded mountains, lush pine and hardwood forests, and bountiful rivers.

These idyllic features can be found everywhere within and around the southern reaches of the Appalachian Range, but you can also dig a little deeper to find some truly special spots that often only make it on the radar for locals: secluded swimming holes, wildlife sanctuaries, and gargantuan cave systems.

We started our journey in northwestern South Carolina, a mountainous corner of a state more typically associated with bright beaches and Spanish moss. Devils Fork State Park is 620 acres of Appalachian foothills that holds several small waterfalls and fields of the rare Oconee Bell flower. The adjacent Lake Jocassee draws visitors looking to paddle, fish, and even scuba dive in its cool waters.

From there, it’s a few hours’ drive southwest to Pine Mountain, Georgia, home of Callaway Gardens. The gardens protect a large number of native plants, and the enclosed butterfly habitat, hiking trails, and nearby beach make this a popular spot with kids as well as adults. Just an hour farther south you’ll find Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” where erosion has cut colorful clefts into the soft marine soil.

Traveling up the Georgia/Alabama border will take you to Lookout Mountain, which towers over three states and provides stunning views of them all. On the Alabama side lies Little River Canyon National Preserve, another natural space that conjures comparisons to Arizona’s Grand Canyon. For millennia, the Little River has cut through the rock of Lookout Mountain, carving one of the deepest canyons east of the Mississippi. Waterfalls, swimming holes, and backcountry camping are all popular activities.

And finally, due north of Lookout Mountain is a national park whose name says it all—Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the entire world, 400 miles of which have been explored and charted. You can’t access all of that as a National Park visitor, of course, but the expert ranger-guides will take you down to see the most spectacular cave features: seemingly bottomless pits, cavernous rooms, and plentiful stalactites and stalagmites. Like the rest of the South, Mammoth Cave proves that the deeper you go, the more you’ll be rewarded.

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The Southern Rockies: Utah & Colorado

The American West—its history, its landscapes, its spirit—is the stuff of legend. If you really want to get a feel for what it’s like out here, Utah and Colorado are great places to start. Which is exactly what we did this past month. With bikes—moto and mountain—in tow, we hopped in the truck and traced our way from central Utah, onto the Colorado Plateau, and then east via I-70 to the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains.

In Utah, two of the state’s Mighty 5 National Parks are clustered around the small city of Moab, where people from all over the world come to climb, mountain bike, and paddle. Hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails crisscross a landscape of red sandstone, snowy peaks on the horizon. To the north of town lies Arches National Park and to the south Canyonlands, both showcasing the power of nature to shape brittle stone. The West doesn't get much better than this. The rest of Utah’s National Parks—Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion—are all within reasonable striking distance, but turn east and you’re off to a new state and a new adventure.

The Rockies are the USA’s great mountain range, and you can think of Rocky Mountain National Park, just northwest of Denver, as their official welcome center. In addition to high peaks, pine forests, and frigid mountain lakes, the park is one of the best places in the country to observe wildlife—bighorn sheep, elk, moose, and black bears are just some of the species you'll see. There are 350 miles of trails running throughout the area, from day hikes to strenuous multi-day treks, giving plenty of options for exploration.

The West is big, in size and imagination, and you’d probably need a lifetime to see it all. But for a short-term visitor, Arches and Rocky Mountain National Parks will bring you up to speed in a hurry.

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Capturing the Great Lakes

From a map’s-eye view, the Great Lakes are one of the most striking features of the United States. Taken together, they hold a full 20% of all the surface freshwater in the world, stretching like fingers along the border of the U.S. and Canada. They also create thousands of miles of coastline within U.S. territory, the majority of which is claimed by the state of Michigan. As we learned on a recent trip, traveling this coast leads to the discovery of adventures you might not be expecting.

Case in point, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. While the preserve abuts a picturesque crescent of forested coastline on the western shore of Lake Huron, the real attraction here is beneath the water, in what’s frequently referred to as Shipwreck Alley. Over 100 sunken vessels dot the lake bed within the marine sanctuary, some dating back hundreds of years. Many of these relics are located in shallow enough waters that you can access them by means of a kayak and snorkel. Others are farther out and require motorized transport and scuba gear. There are few restrictions on visiting the wrecks and plentiful area operators that will you get out there, making for one of the most unique experiences in the entire country.

A beautiful drive to the north is Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a strip of land that’s larger than several U.S. states, but is one of the most remote and least populated areas of the contiguous 48. You’ll quickly discover it’s worth the trip, with pristine wilderness and opportunities for adventure on both its south and north shores. The latter is where you’ll find Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a 42-mile stretch of coast of 200-foot cliffs and other impressive rock formations carved by the elements into the vibrantly hued sandstone. Hop in a kayak to paddle under natural archways, or lace up your boots to hike to waterfalls and headland vistas. On the Upper Peninsula, there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself.

Many thanks to the National Park Service and to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration for making this trip possible. To learn more about these and other spectacular U.S. national parks, visit www.nps.gov and www.noaa.gov

 – Filmmaker and Outdoor Enthusiast Shawn Parkin

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Into Northern New England

The Northeastern United States sometimes gets a bad rap among the outdoors crowd, seen as nothing more than a cluster of small states filled with big cities and a dearth of wild nature. However, we found nothing could be further from the truth in the northern New England states of New Hampshire and Maine.

Take White Mountain National Forest. Covering 1,225 square miles of central New Hampshire, it features the Northeast’s tallest peaks (Mt. Washington rises to 6,288 feet), mile upon mile of uninterrupted forest, and abundant wildlife, including the iconic black bear. All this wilderness doesn’t preclude easy visitor access, though, and there are a number of ways to enjoy the forest. You could visit for months and still hike only a fraction of the area’s 1,200 miles of trails, including a 100-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail. Twenty-three scenic campgrounds make for great places to pitch a tent, and activities such as fishing and swimming are on offer in ponds and rivers. In the winter months, White Mountain National Forest is home to some of the Northeast’s best alpine and Nordic skiing, rounding it out as a true year-round destination.

Due east from the White Mountains you’ll find the Downeast coast of Maine, centered on one of the East’s oldest protected areas: Acadia National Park. Situated primarily on Mount Desert Island (pronounced “Mount Dessert”), the park comprises smooth, bald mountain peaks, miles of carriage roads that pass by some of the island’s historic homes and buildings (John D. Rockefeller, Jr. held extensive property here), sandy beaches, and dense pine forests, as well as several outlying islands and marine habitat. Wake for an early morning climb up Cadillac Mountain to take in the country’s first sunrise, and as you walk the rugged, rocky coast, you’ll question where those stereotypes of the hustle and bustle of the Northeast ever came from.

Many thanks to the National Park Service for making this trip possible. To learn more about these and other spectacular U.S. National Parks, visit  www.nps.gov.

–Filmmaker and Outdoor Enthusiast Sean Michael Williams

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The Craft Beer Trail

Cheers, road trippers! For six days, we sipped, sampled, and savored some of the country’s best craft brews. Along with our friends from Germany, we followed the famous Craft Beer Trail from Utah down to Arizona. Aside from discovering some delicious brews, we also made great friends, saw some amazing sights, and learned a thing or two about the states we visited.

The Trail started in Salt Lake City, Utah where we took in a bit of the area’s archaeological history in the Natural History Museum, and visited Utah’s Olympic Park, where the 2002 Winter Olympics were held. After our tours, our first brewery was in Squatters Pub Brewery. We got lucky and experienced their weekly Mug Club, an exclusive group of 100 beer enthusiasts that come together twice a year. We were already off to a great start!

After Salt Lake City, we made our way to Boulder Beer Company. The first microbrewery in the Colorado was founded by two college professors in a goat shed—proof that inspiration can hit in the weirdest places! From Boulder, we headed 43 kilometers south to Denver. Upon arrival, we jumped on a free bus to Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies. At the ballpark’s Mile High Deck, we got to sample our first locally brewed Blue Moon. Obviously, we couldn’t forget the fresh orange slice!

In Denver, we also visited Oskar Blues Brewery, one of the most memorable of the trip thanks to their live bluegrass music and farm-to-table food offerings. We tried all 10 of their brews and we each discovered a personal favorite. After shopping for souvenirs, we were ready for more beer so we headed over to New Belgium Brewing in Fort Collins. The brewery was influenced by the owner’s trip around Europe, and the décor made us feel like we were actually drinking in Belgium. 

We were sad to leave Colorado’s beautiful views and even better beers, but we had some more sipping to do, so we headed south to New Mexico. Once we landed, we took the Santa Fe Beer Brewery Tour, which started at the Santa Fe Brewing Company. After sampling some of their amazing beers (Santa Fe Hefeweizen and Imperial Java Stout were our favorites), the tour continued on to 2nd Street Brewery, known for its delicious Pilsners. The third and final stop on the tour was at the Marble Brewery. We were lucky enough to arrive on their opening day! Not only were their beers delicious, we felt honored to be some of their very first patrons. 

After New Mexico, we headed to the final state on the Trail, Arizona. We started at The Oak Creek Brewery & Grill, where we tried their “Seven Dwarfs” sample flight featuring seven of their local brews. We paired our beers with some local American favorites like burgers, onion rings, and French fries. 

On our last day on the Trail, we checked out two of Scottsdale’s best breweries. First up wasFour Peaks Brewery, where we ordered a flight of their best local craft beers like Sunbrew, Peach Ale and Hop Knot IPA, among other refreshing brews. Later that night, we arrived at the trendy O.S.H.O. Brewery. A pitcher of their Backyard Blonde accompanied by some all-American apple pie was the best way to end our trip. 

It was time to bid farewell to the Craft Beer Trail, so we headed home with great souvenirs and even better stories. The historic Oregon Trail is next. See you back on the road! 

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