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Fort Jefferson on Dry Tortugas Added to My Bucket List

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Fort Jefferson on Dry Tortugas

Fort Jefferson on Dry Tortugas

The rich cultural heritage of the Dry Tortugas all begins with its location 70 miles west of Key West, Florida. The seven keys (Garden, Loggerhead, Bush, Long, East, Hospital, and Middle) collectively known as the Dry Tortugas, are situated on the edge of the main shipping channel between the Gulf of Mexico, the western Caribbean, and the Atlantic Ocean. The strategic location of the Dry Tortugas brought a large number of vessels through its surrounding waters as they connect the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Early on, the shipping channel was used among Spanish explorers and merchants traveling along the Gulf Coast.

Fort Jefferson on Garden Key

Fort Jefferson, the largest all-masonry fort in the United States, was built between 1846 and 1875 to protect the nation’s gateway to the Gulf of Mexico. Supply and subsidence problems and the Civil War delayed construction. The fort was never completed because of fears that additional bricks and cannon would cause further settling and place more stress on the structure and the cistern system. Distinguishing features include decorative brickwork and 2,000 arches. Time, weather, and water continue to take their toll, necessitating ongoing stabilization and restoration projects.

Fort Jefferson and a Harbor Light

A large military fortress, Fort Jefferson, was constructed in the mid-19th century as an effort for the United States to protect the extremely lucrative shipping channel. Low and flat, these islands and reefs pose a serious navigation hazard to ships passing through the 75-mile-wide straits between the gulf and the ocean. Consequently, these high risk reefs have created a natural “ship trap” and have been the site of hundreds of shipwrecks. A lighthouse was constructed at Garden Key in 1825 to warn incoming vessels of the dangerous reefs and later, a bricktower lighthouse was constructed on Loggerhead Key in 1858 for the same purpose. Discover and explore the rich heritage of Dry Tortugas National Park on the history and culture pages.

Arizona Memorial on Oahu Hawaii

Posted on by Posted in Activities, Adventure/Extreme Travel, Hawaii, Oahu, Sight Seeing, Travel Cost, Travel Cost $$, Travel Type, Uncategorized, USA
Arizona Memorial in Oahu Hawaii

Arizona Memorial in Oahu Hawaii

If you’ve ever been someplace on the earth where there is just a different ‘feeling’ about it you’ll know what I’m talking about in regards to the Arizona Memorial on Oahu in Hawaii.  From the moment you walk into the introduction theater you get a feeling that you are on hallowed ground.  It has a sense of reverence about it like if you were visiting a graveside or hallowed place.

You can almost sense the sacrifice that was made by so many and glimpse the pain and sorrow that so many felt that infamous day here in Pearl Harbor.  The visitors center is a fitting memorial to all those who suffered and loss that day.  A short boat ride out to the Arizona memorial where you get a front-row seat to the wreckage of the USS Arizona as it lays on the bottom of the harbor still leaking oil to this very day.

From the memorial you can see the other book-end of the USS Missouri.  The Arizona and the Missouri are called the book-ends of World War 2 as they mark the beginning and end of the war.  Just a solemn as the Arizona was I could feel a sense of joy and relief on the Missouri as I walked the desk.  While I’m sure there were many sorrows and pains felt aboard this ship, it marked the end of a war that encompassed the world.  There on the deck of the Missouri the cease fire was signed that officially ended the battles.  Any trip to Hawaii and Oahu necessitate a visit to these great monuments.  Only by coming here can you begin to get a real feeling for this part of our countries history.  It’s well worth the time and price of touring Pearl Harbor.

Sawtail Mountain in Island Park Idaho

Posted on by Posted in Cabin, Hiking, Idaho, Lodging Type, Travel Cost, Travel Cost $$, Uncategorized, USA

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For years we’ve heard stories of how aidelvise flowers grow up on Sawtail. Last year we made a four wheeler trip up on top. Even though we went near the end of the summer it was still bitter cold and windy enough for a hang glider.

It’s hard to compare the view from the top though and it makes the toil of the journey worth it. I’d highly recommend taking the time to attempt this climb.

There is plenty of lodging there in Island Park and a few restaurants as well. If you’re up for a little adventure and want to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life the. Island Park is a great stop!

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West Yellowstone in the Summer

Posted on by Posted in Cabin, Hiking, Travel Cost $$, Uncategorized, USA

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With the rising temperatures this week I’m reminded of our excursion to Fairy Falls in West Yellowstone last year.

The trail is well marked and flat most of the way with a few obstacles. It’s about a five mile walk/hike but well worth it to get to the falls. A number if great spots for photos along the way as well.

You’ll want to stop at the entrance to West afterwards to get something cool to drink or perhaps some ice cream and a wolf t-shirt.

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Islands Top Pick Wish List for the Ultimate Island Vacation

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Top 100 Island Bucket List -Fiji

Top 100 Island Bucket List -Fiji

I haven’t been this excited about a travel spot since I first learned about Bora Bora.   I recently saw this great list of the top 100 travel bucket list items.   It has some great entries many of which I have been to and whole-heartedly agree.

 

100. Drink a painkiller at the Soggy Dollar Bar, BVI -Most searched for item on Islands Magazine.

99.  See all of the Florida Keys -Heightened my interest in seeing the keys.

98. Get a treatment at one of the world’s best island spas  -My back is aching for this right now!

97. Sleep under a Socotra tree -A what?

96. Find a surprise in Wales -I never knew Great Britain could have such clear skies. Looks amazing!

95. Play ball like a kid in the Dominican Republic -Didn’t play when I was younger, think I’ll skip this one.  Go Yankees!

94. See Tahiti’s Super Bowl -Outrigger racing.

93. Paddle board in Hawaii -I’ve seen this a lot on Maui and Oahu.

92. Sip the world’s most “interesting” coffee in Bali  -Not a coffee drinking, but love the smell of a good brew.

91. Stand on a glacier in Iceland  -Just saw these up close and personal in Alaska.

90. Dine at one of the most romantic tables for two - the Grand Wailea Resort in Maui, Hawaii.  We went with best friends last year and enjoyed the luau. Spectacular views and great show!

89. See the colors of Curacao -Great pallet.

88. Take a picture of Santorini, Greece -This is high up there on my bucket list, love the contrast of the stark white with deep blue and the surrounding island is incredible.

87. Taste the ultimate sushi in Japan -Yes please!

86. Take your time at the Bishop Museum in Hawaii -Museum in Hawaii?

85. to 76. Spot the coolest island animals
Dive with dugongs in the Philippines • Save the lemurs in Madagascar • Witness a crab orgy on Australia’s Christmas Island • Pet the Tasmanian devil (carefully!) in Tasmania • Pose with penguins in the Falklands • Stalk the “spirit bear” on Canada’s islands • Spot an ivory-billed woodpecker in Cuba • Dive with great white sharks off Dyer Island • See a tree kangaroo in Papua New Guinea • Meet arctic wolves on Ellesmere Island

75. Surf Waikiki -I didn’t surf, but I enjoyed the sand and the proverbial long walk on the beach.  Poor snorkeling, but we did see a baby hammerhead shark.

74. to 72. Toast with these iconic island drinks
Relax with rum on Barbados • Knock down potent kava in a Fiji ceremony • Order a Guinness in Ireland

71. Ride a mule on Molokai, Hawaii -Not for those afraid of heights.

70. Cook a Tahitian feast -Ticket for two please.

69. Get spoiled Down Under at the qualia resort -Have to check this out.  I have stayed on Moreton Island, but this one looks pretty awesome as well.

68. Climb to the Haleakala Crater on Maui -We drove the road to Hana and swam at Waianapanapa but we only drove around the base of Haleakala.  Save it for another trip.

67. Live the island life in Bali  -I think I could get used to this.

66. to 55. Ride like locals
Papua New Guinea by canoe • Madeira by toboggan • Vancouver Island by bike • Malta by bus • Venice by gondola • Exumas by seaplane • Sumbawa by scooter • Antarctic by icebreaker • Jamaica by raft • Luzon by carriage • Quirimbas by dhow • Cuba by Plymouth

54. Soak in the Baths, British Virgin Islands -We cruised to the BVI but I don’t remember a place like this in the tourist traps.

53. to 51. Get a thrill and a view
Hike on Grenada in the Grand Etang National Park • Ski in New Zealand with a helicopter in the Southern Alps • Kayak in the San Juan Islands

50. Stay in one of the world’s best island villas -This reminded me of the Secret Cove Resort in the Sunshine Coast of Canada, but I think I’d live in these waters.

49. Take a photo of Mount Fuji, Japan -Love the look of the manicured crops with Mount Fuji in the background.

48. Eat New Zealand raw -If it’s good enough for the Hobbits…

47. Take a romantic getaway to one of the world’s most romantic islands -Tahiti was their vote and mine too. See their overwater bungalow gallery!

46. Dive off Molokini crater in Hawaii -We didn’t dive, but we snorkeled.  Amazing water clarity!

45. Find adventure in New Zealand -Looking for the road to Mordor.

44. Eat up Oahu -Ben there, ate that, it was yummy! More please.

43. Walk into paradise in Fiji -This place is what sparked my interest in this list.  I so want to snorkel around this place.  Check out Likuliku Lagoon Resort in Fiji.

42. See real hula in Hawaii -See #90, Grand Wailea Resort in Maui. One word, otherworldly.

41. Snorkel with whales in Tonga -Supernatural

40. Get to Ko Samui, Thailand -Love the food, water looks nice.

39. Book one of the world’s best island cruises -Sign me up today.

38. Stay underwater in the Maldives -Absolutely a bucket list item too. Conrad Maldives Resort & Spa on Rangali Island is a must.

37. Visit the best island beaches  -Besties, sunscreen, bottled water, Triscuts and pepper jack cheese for me.

36. Visit the No. 1 most natural island destination -Vanuatu
UNESCO World Heritage sites honor Chief Roi Mata on Éfaté, Lelepa and Artok islands; the Vatthe Conservation Area offers an oasis of biodiversity on Espiritu Santo; and low-impact resorts such as the Epi Island Guesthouse provide responsible lodging. Rates from $50

35. Take naps, drink wine and eat a ton on St. Lucia -One out of two isn’t bad, how about a fruity drink with an umbrella?

34. Take the ultimate family vacation -34. Take the ultimate family vacation, just like Swiss Family Robinson, but better.

33. Step foot on One Foot Island in Aitutaki, Cook Islands -If it’s good enough for Captain Jack, it’s good enough for me.

32. See Tahiti beyond the bungalows -Yowser!

31. Fly over the Na Pali Coast of Kauai, Hawaii -Book me a first class seat PLEASE!

30. Night dive with mantas off the Big Island, Hawaii  -Uhhhhh…

29. Sail the secret Caribbean -cruise with Star Clippers to the Leeward Islands.

28. Book a “sanctuary” at Jade Mountain resort on St. Lucia -Is this a painting or what?

27. Stay in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives -When you think of overwater bungalows you usually think of Bora Bora, but the Maldives have their own amazing bungalows as well.

26. Dive at Raja Ampat, Indonesia -”The most biodiverse marine life in the world” is how our dive and snorkeling expert described the experience here in Indonesia.”

25. Relax on the most stress-free island -Turks & Caicos is an amazing choice.  Check out Zach Stovall’s pictures and you’ll see why.

24. Relax on sand in the Seychelles -An adventurers paradise for sure.

23. Stay at the No. 1 room with a view -The Viceroy in Bali.

22. Make Tahiti your home -A new trend that many are jumping on apparently.

21. Find the secret America -The “Secret American Islands” a.k.a American Samoa.

20. Escape to the coolest jungle -An island resort in Thailand.

19. Hop the Caribbean by boat -” In bareboat sailing, the weather is your only guide as you navigate purely via your line of sight. Catch this catamaran year-round on St. Thomas at CYOA Yacht Charters in Frenchtown, on the western side of Charlotte Amalie.”

18. Experience the culture of Papua New Guinea -Don’t forget your face makeup.

17. Feel the heat on the Big Island of Hawaii -No double entendre there.

16. Take a cruise into the secret South Pacific -See  Orion Expedition Cruises.

15. Move to the USVI -A lot of talk about moving off the mainland these days.

14. Sleep on the Great Barrier Reef -Posted about this earlier this year.

13. Live in Hawaii -If you can afford $5 for a gallon of milk, sure, why not.

12. See the Galapagos -A dream really.

11. Live the island life forever -Here it is again, man the 9 to 5 must really be a killer.

10. Retire early on Roatan -Did someone say retire early?

9. to 3. Escape to a private island -My wife and I were once the only people on a Canadian island.  Blissful!
Fowl Cay in the Exumas, Bahamas • Pamalican Island in the Philippines • Matangi in Fiji • Cayo Espanto in Belize • Akitua in the Cook Islands • Peter Island in the British Virgin Islands • Lizard Island in Australia

2. Fall asleep in a faraway hammock -”While away the hours on Thailand’s Ko Samui at Thongtakian Beach, or “Silver Beach” as the locals call it”  I so want to get me some of that.

1. Escape to an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora -This had to be number one, really.  What else?

Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana Pizza in Farmington Utah

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The Settebello in Salt Lake City is located just a few blocks east off the 400 South Exit of the I-15 freeway.  Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana is a wonderful addition to the hometown feel of Farmington Utah.  Last summer I was fortunate enough to spend 10 glorious days in Rome touring the sites, meeting the people and enjoying the food.

I developed a serious addiction to pasta carbonara and Italian pizza cooked in a brick oven.  The pizza is different than what you get here in America.  Don’t get me wrong, I love American pizza as well, but there are times when only the taste of the freshest ingredients and that flaky, light crust of Italian style pizza will do.

Now whether your headed to the movie or just want to take your special someone out on a date and try something a little classier than the local burger joint, Settebello is there right next to the Cinemark theater.

To commemorate our time in Rome and just prior to seeing the latest vampire flick we stopped in to indulge.
Of course we had the Pizza Carbonara with Crushed Tomatoes, Pancetta, Egg, Mozzarella, Cracked Pepper and Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

I must say that this pizza came the closest to what we had in Rome and made me nostalgic for the Colosseum or the Pantheon and a table for two with a light breeze and a street musician playing somewhere off in the distance.

If you get a chance I’d highly recommend stopping by and finishing the meal off with a selection of their own gelato.

 

Luckybums Kids Storm King Soft Shell Jacket

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Luckybums Kids Storm King Soft Shell Jacket

Luckybums Kids Storm King Soft Shell Jacket

Luckybums Kids Storm King Soft Shell Jacket

Just like the Luckybums Kids Rumba Backpack and Luckybums Explorer Sleeping Bag the Luckybums kids Storm King soft shell jacket is an adult style and quality soft shell jacket with all the technical features for a hiking excursion. It’s recommended for hicking, camping, hunting and general purpose jacket use.

Luckybums is a cool company dedicated to making cool products. You can find out more about them on their site and the great story of how they started.

“Today, our products are appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts around the world and are available in over 2,000 stores. From a single product to a true outdoor gear company with a growing staff, expanded facilities and year-round products for snow play, hiking, camping, fishing and hunting, Lucky Bums is steadfast in our commitment to create a world class outdoor gear for kids company that parents can trust. ”

Check out their site and see all the great products for hunting, camping and hiking.