Each time I recall my recent visit to Southern California, the hours I spent at the Getty Villa near Malibu stand out most. As a lover of the California coast, art, and being outdoors, the gorgeous art museum couldn't have been a more perfect way to spend a day in Los Angeles. Built in the early 1970s in the style of a first century Roman house--complete with an open … [Read more...] about The Getty Villa: A Southern California Treasure
United States
Highlights from One Day in Astoria, Oregon
Need proof that some of the most deeply satisfying travel experiences can be found close to home? I recently spent one day in Astoria, Oregon and if I’m being honest, I’m still surprised it took me so long to discover--and fall in love with--this beautiful Pacific Northwest town. After driving down from Seattle to meet up with an old friend, I chose to stay overnight and … [Read more...] about Highlights from One Day in Astoria, Oregon
San Luis Obispo County: A Jewel of California Central Coast
San Luis Obispo County is a California road trip classic. Situated roughly halfway between Los Angeles and the Bay Area, it’s no coincidence that the first motel had its home here. If ever there was a place made for exploring behind the wheel of a car, San Luis Obispo County is it. And as far as I’m concerned, it’s my favorite place to be when I’m roadtripping in the Golden … [Read more...] about San Luis Obispo County: A Jewel of California Central Coast
Wanderlust for One Day in San Francisco
San Francisco is one of my favorite cities. It’s a charismatic metropolis with a rich history, temperate weather year-round, and myriad opportunities to fulfill nearly every interest. Whether you enjoy being in nature, eating great food, visiting museums, or shopping the latest fashions, San Francisco has something for you. When I found a deeply discounted flight from Seattle … [Read more...] about Wanderlust for One Day in San Francisco
Finding Ghosts and Giants at Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is the embodiment of everything I love about America’s national parks. Donated to the federal government by William Kent, a California senator who once owned the land on which Muir Woods sits, Kent requested the property be instituted as a national park. His intent: to protect the old-growth coastal redwoods growing there. Kent's request … [Read more...] about Finding Ghosts and Giants at Muir Woods National Monument